Don't let an adventurous trip turn into a holiday nightmare

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It seems that the average Brit abroad is now looking for adventure rather than just sun, sea and sandy beaches but any adrenaline-pumping activity comes with its associated risks. According to new research from esure Travel Insurance, over one in ten (13 per cent/5.2 million2) holidaymakers have been injured whilst taking part in a more adventurous sport or activity1.

In fact, 88 per cent of British holidaymakers polled have previously taken part in adventurous activities3 whilst on holiday which highlights their popularity. Alarmingly, only 73 per cent of Brits questioned would check their travel insurance documents before taking part in a hazardous sport or activity and worryingly 13 per cent admitted that they would go ahead and make a booking even if they knew the activity wasn't covered under their travel insurance.

Before shark feeding in the Bahamas or paragliding in Balearics, it's crucial to buy travel insurance and read the small print as not all travel insurance policies are the same and exclusions apply. Six per cent of Brits wrongly believe that all travel insurance policies cover adventurous activities as standard and could leave themselves liable to a hefty bill in the event of an accident1. Worryingly, the research also revealed that nearly a third (34 per cent) of Brits did not take out any travel insurance cover for their most recent trip abroad.

Mike Pickard, Head of Travel Insurance at esure, said: "With a surge in the popularity of, and access to, more adventurous sports and activities at holiday resorts across the globe, it's crucial for holidaymakers to take out travel insurance and check what they're covered for. Taking the plunge into raging white-water instead of the hotel swimming pool considerably increases the risk of getting injured. Have an accident without insurance and the medical bills could turn a paradise trip into a nightmare if you're not properly covered."

esure has some top tips for Brits looking to take part in activities and sports whilst on holiday:

  1. Don't forget to buy travel insurance: For peace of mind and to avoid paying a hefty bill if you are injured, buy good quality travel insurance.
  2. Read the small print carefully: Check out your travel insurance policy's 'hazardous sports' section before you take part in a more adventurous activity. Never assume that you'll be covered.
  3. Contact your insurer with any questions: If you can't find an activity in your policy document or you have any questions about restrictions or exclusions, contact your insurer immediately. Some insurers may charge an additional premium to cover certain sports so it's worth making a call.
  4. Take your policy documents away with you: In case you have any questions whilst on holiday or need to make a claim, take phone numbers and documentation with you.
  5. Make note of any restrictions or provisos: Some insurers will stipulate that you are only covered if the activity is professionally organised and supervised, if suitable safety equipment is worn, and if the appropriate safety measures are taken. So if you're looking to jet-ski, hire it from a water sports centre rather than just 'a man on the beach.'
  6. Check whether your activity has certain conditions: If you plan to scuba dive, some insurers may only offer cover down to a certain depth. Hikers may need to stay below a certain altitude. Motorcyclists might need to have held a clean licence for a specified number of years. If in doubt, check the policy detail.

esure's press contacts:

Asia Manzoor, Public Relations Officer: 01737 641305
Niki Bolton, Corporate Communications Manager: 01737 235070
Emma Lloyd, Assistant Communications Officer: 01737 641309
Adrian Webb, Head of Corporate Communications: 01737 641000
Email: pr@esure.com 
An ISDN line is available for radio interviews

Notes to Editors:

  1. ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 1006 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 12th - 14th June 2009. Interviews were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Further information at www.icmresearch.co.uk
  2. UK population 44,732,000 aged 18 plus (source: ONS). According to the survey, 90 per cent of UK adults go away on holiday: 40,258,800.
  3. ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 1008 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 16th - 18th May 2008. Interviews were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults.

About esure:

esure was launched in 2001 and is a joint venture between Peter Wood and HBOS. The company offers car, home, pet and travel insurance over the internet and by phone. esure also offers car insurance cover through Halifax Car Insurance, Sainsbury’s Car Insurance and, most recently, the Sheilas' Wheels brands.

Sponsorship:

esure has secured one of the UK’s most iconic sponsorships: the ITV National weather.