Interesting research from Tesco here. It seems many holidaymakers wait until they are guaranteed to get free medical treatment in the UK, even if they were injured to became unwell whilst abroad. Anyone who has ever presented an EHIC card anywhere in France, Spain or Italy will know that the most common response is a wry smile – not antibiotics or bandages. Then the question, “do you have insurance?”
It then becomes a claim that must be declared for 5 years, so human nature being what it is, people hope for the best and figure if they can stagger onto the plane, they’re OK. Here’s the research;
One in six (16%) holidaymakers admit to waiting to return home to seek medical assistance when they’ve injured themselves or fallen ill whilst abroad, according to new research from Tesco Insurance.
When asked why they waited, almost a third (30%) revealed that they felt more comfortable speaking to their doctor, while a similar number shared they didn’t think it was urgent (27%). 26% cited trust and safety concerns as to why they sought medical treatment at home rather than abroad. Other common reasons included travel worries such as not being allowed to fly home (17%), not being able to pay (17%), and the language barrier they may have to face (16%).
Although three in four (77%) holidaymakers tend to purchase travel insurance, 14% revealed that they don’t, which potentially puts them at risk while on holiday. Within this group, 14% admitted that they didn’t think they needed it, 12% said they weren’t going away for long enough, and the same number didn’t think it was worth it. Almost one in ten (9%) confessed that they simply forgot to purchase travel insurance, and 7% thought they already had it. Whether sunseekers make the active decision to not take out travel insurance or just forget, insurance can provide holidaymakers with peace of mind that they’re covered financially and medically in case of the worst, no matter how long or short their stay.
Tesco Travel Insurance’s Annual Multi Trip policy provides travellers with unlimited emergency medical cover, 24/7 digital access to a GP and holiday cancellation cover. And better yet, until the end of January, Clubcard holders can get a 20% discount when taking out a new policy.1
Alex Cross, Chief Customer Officer, Tesco Insurance, said: “Sun, sea, and sickness can be an unsavoury combination whilst abroad, but they are things to be aware of before you set sail on your next holiday adventures. Sometimes, all it takes is an accidental nap in the sun or a tumble over some cobblestones to derail a holiday and keep you from enjoying your time away.
“With this in mind, it’s vital that holidaymakers take out travel insurance before their holiday – no matter how long or short – to ensure they’re protected should the worst happen. Taking the time to explore your insurance options is also important, as some policies are tailored to certain types of holidays like skiing or backpacking, whilst others may offer benefits like access to an online GP or cover for travel delays.
“This time of the year may also see insurance providers offering additional deals or offers which can help save you money in the long run. At Tesco Travel Insurance, we’re providing Clubcard holders with 20% off our Annual Multi Trip policies until the end of January, so that you can kickstart your year with your safest foot forward.”1
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