Beware of last minute extreme holiday pursuits

Well over a third (37 per cent) of British holidaymakers have taken part in daredevil activities while abroad. Popular escapades include rock climbing, white-water rafting and bungee jumping. But even if the holiday is insured, people need to check extreme sports are covered by their standard policy as not all insurers will include them.

Even more astonishingly, the research from price comparison site moneysupermarket.com shows one in eight adventurous Brits abroad don't purchase any insurance at all.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com, said: "Our research reveals the daredevil streak in many people. When on holiday, it seems they want to try the latest hair-raising experience instead of relaxing by the pool. Yet, with the thrill of jumping out of a plane or negotiating white-water rapids, some holidaymakers do not give a second thought to checking they are adequately covered, or - more shockingly - they take part knowing they are uninsured.

"While impulse activities such as bungee jumping and rock climbing may maximise the holiday experience, some popular insurers such as Direct Line or Endsleigh classify these as dangerous sports and you may not be covered if anything goes wrong."

People should not be worried about the added cost of travel insurance for their holiday as many of the less well known insurers will cover you for activities such as bungee jumping and white-water rafting for less than £15 for a two-week trip to the US - over £60 cheaper than cover provided by some of the big name insurers.

The research reveals the younger generation are the biggest daredevils with 52 per cent of twentysomethings having taken part in impulsive activities on holiday compared to 45 per cent of those in their thirties. Those living in London are the most fearless with 44 per cent having participated in extreme sports when abroad, compared to 33 per cent of people from Wales and 39 per cent of people from Scotland.

Peter Gerrard added: "Travel insurance policies will vary significantly and exclusions and caveats are commonplace. It is important to check the small print and ensure you are covered for every eventuality. I advise Brits to think ahead about activities of interest before shopping around for the most adequate level of cover and best value policy."