Ensure your great gap escape is covered

As hoards of 'gappers' head off to travel the world, moneysupermarket.com urges those looking for insurance from specialist brands to watch out for inflated premiums and low levels of cover.

Whether it’s six months abroad before the start of university or a long-awaited career break, prolonged time spent overseas will require adequate insurance. A 21 year old male backpacker looking for a gap year policy will find it costs £206 from Direct Line or £511 from a specialist insurer such as Dogtag, although there will be differences in the sports they cover.

The 340,000 Brits who are likely to take a gap year or career break this year should check their insurance covers them if they intend to work abroad. A number of exclusions such as involvement in manual work or labour will apply.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com, said: “With the prospect of spending months abroad, it is essential to consider insurance. Checking the small print of a policy is crucial. If you are going to be working or doing extreme sports, ensure you’re covered. It is also vital to make sure your policy will cover you for the entire duration of the trip. Shop around to get the correct policy and levels of cover for your money."

Peter Gerrard added: “For the 90,000 Brits who take a career break each year, covering yourself while abroad, and the property you may be leaving behind for an extended period, is vital.

“Make sure the policy you choose has sufficient cover for medical expenses. This will cover you if, for example, you have to be repatriated. If you are staying in Europe, have a European Health Insurance Card.

”You should ensure your cover limit takes account of your camera, ipod, phone and other expensive items, and that they are secured when possible and not left at unnecessary risk."

moneysupermarket.com recommends at least the following level of cover:

Medical expenses: £2 million
Personal liability: £1 million
Cancellation: £3,000 (or at least the value of your holiday)
Baggage: £1,500.