Average holiday insurance claim is £291
Published On 6 October 2006
A new survey has found that the average holiday insurance claim is £291.The American Express enquiry highlights the importance that holidaymakers should place on taking out adequate travel insurance, as those uncovered can often be left financially bereft upon their return to the UK.
The introduction of the European Health Insurance Card has been blamed by some for the mistaken belief of many tourists that they are fully covered on their trips to warmer climes.
The study found that medical problems were responsible for a third of all claims on European holidays, while in North America, this figure rose to two thirds.
Joanne Field, the marketing manager at American Express Insurance Services, commented: "There are two key things to look for when buying a good travel insurance policy to cover any potential medical claims – does the insurer ask about your health now and does the insurer offer at least £1 million of medical and repatriation cover?"
Of the 10,000 customers canvassed, the most common ailment abroad is stomach trouble, with sunburn and bad insect bites in second and third, respectively.
