Post Office highlights importance of travel insurance

Recent research shows that the number of overseas holidays taken by UK residents in 2009 fell by 14.5 per cent as UK holidaymakers sought ways to cut back holiday costs by either taking a staycation or cutting back on travel costs by taking fewer short breaks, rather spending more time abroad on a single break.

Whatever the length of holiday Post Office Travel Insurance is encouraging all tourists to ensure they take out the necessary travel insurance cover before heading off on holiday.

The rise of people searching for ways to cut back on holiday costs has led to increased interest in people seeking a better deal through holiday auctions and pop-up hotels. According to eBay, the price of auctioned holidays has fallen by 20 per cent in the last three months. Over this period, the number of people purchasing holidays through their bidding site has risen.

Post Office Travel Insurance advises anyone planning to take a holiday, including those using auction sites, to research their travel insurance options carefully before they go. Should travellers have any queries about their rights regarding a holiday bought by auction, they are advised to contact the auction site.

Post Office Travel Insurance also reminds holidaymakers that travel insurance should be considered essential in case of any loss, damage or theft of luggage, whether travelling in the UK or abroad. The Post Office reminds travellers that travel insurance is vital no matter which method is used to book a holiday.