ABI: Consumers must check travel insurance

Holiday-makers should ensure that their travel insurance policies include cover for loss of baggage and medical expenses, according to an industry expert.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has reiterated the importance of consumers checking the extent of the cover offered to them by their travel insurance providers.

Describing the current influenza outbreak as a prime example of travellers' lack of knowledge regarding their insurance, the industry body explained that most policies will not compensate for this particular risk.

Malcolm Tarling, spokesman for the ABI, warned consumers that the cancellation of trips due to unforeseen circumstances is rarely covered in any travel insurance premium.

He said: "If you wanted a travel policy that would cover you for everything under the sun, fine, but it will be at a price nobody will be able to afford."

Last month, ABTA - The Travel Association made a similar plea to consumers, calling on them to check the amount of protection awarded on DIY insurance packages.