Travel Insurance Enquiries Rise In Preparation For Summer Holidays

The comparison website has seen ‘record levels’ of travel insurance enquiries, it says, as holidaymakers start preparing for the summer holidays by protecting their belongings and themselves whilst they are away.

The number of enquiries at Confused.com about travel insurance are up 63 per cent on the same time last year, and it predicts that this will continue throughout the rest of the summer.

As consumers try to limit their spending during the credit crunch and go away less, the travel insurance industry has seen a slight move towards travellers opting for single trip travel insurance policies over more expensive annual travel insurance cover.

The statistics show that 55 per cent of Brits now choose single trip travel insurance, compared to 45 per cent who are buying annual cover, but at Confused.com, the disparity between those choosing single versus annual protection is starker, at 70 per cent and 30 per cent respectively.

Steve Williams, head of Confused.com travel insurance, highlights several possible explanations for the increased interest in travel insurance this year, such as fears over swine flu, which has caused many trips to be cancelled, leaving travellers disappointed and out of pocket.

Mr Williams said that “it’s clear that consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits and peace of mind travel insurance can bring.”

“While holiday insurance is a must-have, it makes little sense to pay more than necessary by buying from the travel agent, especially as finding a great deal is so simple,” he added. “Not only is shopping around quick and easy, but it also enables consumers to directly compare levels of cover and cost from a wide range of providers.”

Compare travel insurance deals »

© Fair Investment Company Ltd