Football fans - remember your travel cover
The football season is underway and many football fans will be hopping across to Europe to cheer on their club in the Champions League and Europa League matches.
Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham are playing in Europe next week, so fans could be booking last minute flights - but travelling without insurance could be an own goal should the worst happen, says insurewithease.com.
“It’s easy to get carried away with packing your football shirt and lucky socks, booking accommodation and grabbing some travel money, but even a short trip needs insurance,” says Sarah Findlay, Online Marketing Manager for insurewithease.com. “Anyone falling ill or having an accident abroad without cover could be left footing a hefty medical bill, even for a relatively minor condition. We’re asking football fans if it’s really worth the risk.”
The cost of repatriation and medical treatment can run into thousands for those risking travel without insurance. For a fraction of the cost of their holiday, insured travellers can get cover for accidents, illness, lost luggage or delays and cancellations, not to mention expert support and advice when it’s needed most.
Sarah Findlay adds, “It’s important for travellers to get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before they go, however this is not a replacement for insurance cover. The EHIC will not cover repatriation, flight cancellation, lost or delayed baggage or missed departures. The card only covers treatment in state hospitals and does not cover GP consultations or pharmacy prescriptions or most importantly repatriation, which can cost tens of thousands of pounds.
“Football fans booking last minute trips to cheer on their team in Europe should ensure they travel with the right level of cover, even if it’s just for one night. So make sure you head off to Italy or Russia knowing you’re covered should anything other than the match go wrong!”
TOP TRAVEL TIPS FOR FOOTBALL FANS
• Check the travel requirements for your destination and get a visa if necessary
• Get or renew your EHIC
• Remember to sort out accommodation and internal travel before you arrive
• Look after personal belongings at all times
• Make sure you are aware of any restrictions regarding football fans and the consumption of alcohol and
then stick to them – particularly in Russia
• Check the local laws and customs on the FCO website
• Buy travel cover for your entire stay - it could save you thousands of pounds if things go wrong
