Backpackers and other British holidaymakers do not give enough thought to their insurance policies when agreeing to embark on adventure activities while abroad, it has been claimed.
Talking to the Daily Telegraph recently as part of a feature on the importance of travel insurance, Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com, said many travellers are not covered when they take part in daredevil deeds such as white-water rafting and bungee jumping as their insurance policies do not cover "dangerous sports".
Indeed, he even suggested that some take part even though they know that their insurance policy will not cover them in the event of picking up an injury.
However, it is not just extreme sports that Mr Gerrard believes travel insurance is useful for - he says
backpacker travel insurance is essential whether risky activities are undertaken or not.
"Taking this risk is not such a good idea considering 81 per cent of Brits fall ill whilst on holiday," he commented, adding that "travel insurance is vital for claiming on cancellations, lost cash, lost or stolen valuables and providing emergency medical treatment".
Recent research has revealed that South Africa is now the most popular destination for backpackers on their gap year, followed by Canada and Kenya.
