The British government has urged holidaymakers not to cut back on their travel insurance despite the temptation to overlook securing a policy.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) released the results of a survey which showed that two-thirds of Britons are planning to head abroad this summer without travel insurance.
However, the FCO revealed in its annual report that a huge number of Britons were affected by scenarios which would require cover between April 2006 and March 2007.
A total of 8,304 Britons needed medical assistance in the US, 6,710 passports were lost and 1,591 people died in Spain, while 602 people were hospitalised in Greece.
Foreign Office minister Meg Munn said: "This report highlights what can go wrong on holiday.
"It is a reminder to all that taking out comprehensive travel insurance is a crucial part of your holiday planning and not something that should be sacrificed to save a few pounds.
"Our message is: Stay safe and have a great holiday."
The FCO named Indonesia - where backpacker travel insurance is a must - as the country with the highest number of cases where Britons needed assistance, a total of 10.05 for every 1,000 visitors.
