Man U fans travelling to Rome warned it could be a costly match

With less than a week until the Champions League final, it is important Manchester United fans are fully prepared for their trip to Rome.

As one of Britain's leading travel insurers, Direct Line is concerned that some travellers will not have made appropriate preparations to enjoy the match and get home safely.

Carrying today's equivalent of the old E111, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), will help with some of the cost of treatment for fans involved in an accident or emergency. However, it may not cover all that you would expect. Should you be injured seriously enough to need repatriation back to the UK, an air ambulance from Rome can cost up to £16,875 - a high price to pay for poor preparation.

Direct Line offers insurance which not only covers customers for a range of travel and medical emergencies, it also provides up to £500 cover for lost or stolen pre-paid tickets to the match along with lost passport cover. Policies also offer legal assistance and third party liability cover in line with the standard terms and conditions of travel insurance policies.

Chris Price, Head of Travel Insurance at Direct Line, says, "While it is easy to get excited about the final, fans should prepare adequately for an overseas trip. They should ensure they have the right travel insurance in place to cover them for incidents which may occur while away including medical emergencies, loss of passports, legal assistance and trip cancellation which can be very costly and inconvenient at the best of times.

"With air ambulance evacuations costing up to £16,875, a serious accident or injury can result in financial disaster for fans without insurance.

"At Direct Line, we also offer group discounts for up to 16 adults travelling together. So if you and your friends are heading to the Champions League Final, you can benefit from a discount on a group policy which ensures you all have the cover you need.

"An important consideration for fans that do become ill or injured, is the cost of having a friend or relative stay in a hotel while they recuperate in hospital. With hotel prices soaring for the Champions League Final, insurance provides you with valuable peace of mind."

Direct Line's Top Tips on Traveller's Safety:

You should regularly check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office's dedicated Champions League site at: fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/ta-relevant-to-you/champions-league

Book accommodation before leaving - you will find it very difficult to get accommodation when you arrive

Keep family and friends updated on your whereabouts, particularly if you decide to go sightseeing outside Rome

Have a good time, but don't drink too much as insurance claims may be affected if alcohol or drugs are involved.

Carry your passport on you at all times

Keep copies of your documents in a safe place

Pickpockets may be out in force to coincide with the Final so remain vigilant in managing your valuables

For further details on Direct Line Travel Insurance, visit directline.com