Brits head abroad for Christmas

Nearly 12% of the population is considering spending Christmas abroad this year, with Spain, France and Italy topping the list of most popular destinations, according to Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Insurance. However, the bank is concerned that as many as 8%, some 457,000 people, might not arrange travel insurance.

Robert O’May, travel insurance manager, Sainsbury’s Bank said: “Taking a break at Christmas is a perfect way to escape the cold British climate, or leave behind the stresses and strains of a busy 2006 with a winter sports break. Whatever your plans this Christmas, if you are travelling overseas, ensure you have adequate travel insurance in place should you encounter any problems."

Across Britain, London will see the largest percentage of people spending this Christmas abroad followed by Yorkshire and Humberside.

In terms of those people planning to spend Christmas abroad, 8% intend to do so in Spain, the most popular overseas destination this Christmas.

Sainsbury’s Bank is also reminding those travelling to countries within the European Union to ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), to supplement their travel insurance. The EHIC replaced the E111 and is not a substitute for insurance. It is vital for those travelling to Europe to remember to apply for both an EHIC and travel insurance to ensure they have adequate protection. Unlike some insurers, Sainsbury’s Bank will waive the excess for medical costs claims if the claimant has used a valid EHIC abroad.

Sainsbury’s Bank annual insurance cover starts from £46.75 online. The bank was named ‘Best Travel Insurance provider’ in the 2005 Your Money Direct Awards, selected by a panel of consumers and industry judges. To obtain a Sainsbury’s Bank travel insurance quote you can log onto sainsburysbank.co.uk.