Insure yourself against all your holiday hurdles in Beijing

With the 2008 Olympics just around the corner, travellers planning to attend the games in Beijing should make sure they have adequate travel insurance before they set off.

Research from moneysupermarket.com reveals one in seven (14 per cent) Brits deliberately shun insurance when they go abroad. People may consider travel insurance an extra expense on top of what they are already spending for their holiday, however global cover is available from OUL Direct and Cheaper Travel Insurance for as little as £13 for a single trip to China - £33 cheaper than some of the better known insurers.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket.com said: "Brits flying across the globe to support their favourite sporting heroes must make sure they do not get caught up in the Olympic frenzy and forget to purchase adequate cover. Some people may not take out insurance because they are concerned about the cost; however, with worldwide insurance costing less than a souvenir t-shirt there is really no excuse to travel without cover.

"Travel insurance is vital for claiming on cancellations, lost cash and providing emergency medical treatment. However, policies can vary and exclusions and caveats are commonplace so it is important to always check the small print carefully. I advise Brits to plan ahead and shop around for the best value policy."

moneysupermarket.com recommends at least the following level of cover - £2 million for medical expenses, £1 million personal liability, £3,000 cancellation, £1,500 for baggage and £250 for cash.