Bankruptcy warning for holiday Brits
12/08/2008
British holidaymakers risk facing bills that could bankrupt them, according to travel experts.
A spokesperson for travel association Abta warned against travelling with no insurance to foreign countries.
France Tuke told the BBC that millions of people in the UK travel abroad uninsured for the sake of saving a few pounds but could be exposed to bills costing over £35,000.
British holidaymakers are advised to book insurance at the same time as they book their holiday if they do not have an annual policy.
Ms Tuke advised that pre-paid travel insurance can cover a holiday cancellation due to unemployment and illness that may prevent someone from travelling.
Some personal finance and travel tips Ms Tuke offered included that it may be cheaper to use debit cards to get cash at ATMs abroad, your credit card when buying direct purchases and travellers` cheques for increased security.
Booking with an Abta company to gain financial protection for any travel arrangements, although consumers need to ask exactly what is protected.
"Abta members can offer insurance policies that will cover the insolvency of airlines or other travel companies if they are not already covered under other existing schemes" Ms Tuke said.
The current economic climate sees Britons concerned about their holiday spending. A recent Post Office survey revealed that hidden charges for using credit and debit cards or mobile phones abroad top the list of holiday gripes.
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