Mind the gap (year)

With A-Level results out next week (20 August) and many students jetting off on a much anticipated gap year, moneysupermarket.com urges ‘gappers' to consider their insurance needs and not to travel uninsured.

The cost of a gap year abroad can be expensive and travel insurance might be the last thing on your mind, but research from the UK's leading price comparison site reveals securing comprehensive cover for the entire duration of the trip does not need to break the bank. For example, annual cover from Elect Travel Insurance is available for gap go-getters from £117, and this covers adventurous activities such as bungee jumping, scuba diving and white water rafting.

And it is not just students who may be considering taking time out. Adults may also be thinking about taking a well earned career-break, especially in the current climate. According to Gap Year For Grownups, there has been a 20 per cent increase in the number of older people booking a gap year, and with policies varying widely it is crucial ‘gappers' check the small print to ensure they are covered for different types of work or extreme sports if they are planning to do them.

Maxine Baker, travel insurance manager at moneysupermarket.com said: "Heading abroad on a gap year is a very exciting time for many travellers, however it is important to ensure you are fully prepared before you go. Forsaking travel insurance for your trip could turn out to be a costly choice to make and not one I would recommend. Choosing the correct policy for your needs is crucial, and consideration must be taken if you are planning to work abroad or partake in extreme sports, especially as exclusions and restrictions can be commonplace. It is also important to ensure you are covered for the entire duration of your trip, and for the cost of the possessions you intend to take with you. I urge everyone to shop around for the best policy and level of cover for your money."

"With the swine flu pandemic also causing concern for travellers, it is more important than ever to consider having insurance in place once you have booked your trip. If you are diagnosed with swine flu and forced to delay your holiday, not having travel insurance could mean you end up forsaking your adventure of a lifetime altogether."