Martin Lewis has issued a ‘desperate’ warning to everyone who has booked a holiday abroad this summer but has not yet bought their travel insurance. The consumer champion is urging those people to “do it now” as every year his “heart sinks” after someone gets in touch to say they’ve lost all their money because they were unable to travel and did not have insurance cover.
The financial guru urged everyone to book ‘ASAB’ (As Soon As You Book) your trip to ensure you are covered before you’re due to jet off. He pointed out that sadly, a serious diagnosis such as cancer, will not result in a flight or hotel refund unless you have travel insurance or booked the holiday with a free cancellation.
Martin issued the warning in the latest edition of the MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE.com) newsletter. He said: “If you've booked a holiday abroad, and don't have travel insurance, do it now, today, do not delay. I admit I say this with a hint of desperation.”
He continued: “EVERY summer, my heart sinks after someone asks me a question who'd had 'getting travel insurance' on their to-do list, but didn't prioritise it. Usually they've had a serious diagnosis (too often cancer), injury, redundancy or bereavement, can't go on holiday, and are shocked the airline or hotel won't let them cancel.”
Martin warned: “So let me be blunt. Unless you booked with free cancellation, being ill doesn't give you rights. It's like arguing you can return a tennis racket as faulty because you have a broken arm.
"That's why you need to get travel insurance ASAB. It's not just there to cover you in case things go wrong while you're on holiday. Half the value is protection BEFORE travelling, in case something happens to stop you from going.”
According to MSE.com you can buy travel insurance from as little as £9. The team of experts have gathered all the latest deals available for lone travellers and families looking for cheap insurance, cover for people over 65 and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
You can view all the travel insurance options and deals on MSE.com here.
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