One in three Brits travel abroad uninsured, risking thousands in unexpected costs

According to a recent study of 2,000 holidaymakers 9 in 10 believe it is important you book travel insurance, however, nearly a third have ventured abroad without it.

Generally, 20% will book their holiday cover right before their trip, with 28% unaware it insures you from the moment you purchase it

The study found that a quarter of those who travelled uninsured simply forgot to arrange cover, while a staggering 66% deliberately chose not to bother. But a significant 21% have faced unforeseen consequences and as a result had to fork out over £1,570 on average.

Costs have included extra hotel nights (53%), hospital stays and medical expenses (51%), and new flights (43%). Moreover, 18% of respondents reported having to foot the full cost of a holiday they were unable to take due to unforeseen circumstances such as jury duty, , or redundancy.

Al Murray, spokesperson for the online travel agent that commissioned the survey, cautioned: "Booking a holiday without travel insurance comes with risks, and our research indicates not all holidaymakers are aware of them."

Can you spot the potential insurance hazards?

"Things outside of your control can prevent you from going on a holiday you've already booked, or affect you while you're away, potentially leading to unexpected costs."

"Making sure you have the right insurance in place from the moment you book your holiday helps to protect you from those costs, whether that's medical bills, extra stays in hotels, repatriation flights, or even the cost of a holiday you're no longer able to go on."

The study also revealed that 52% feel most adventurous when they are on holiday, as it's fun to explore new areas, easier to step out of your comfort zone and no one knows you, so you can be a different person (42%).his reason, 64% are likely to book travel insurance for an adventurous trip.

Al Murray, concluded: "There's nothing wrong with letting your hair down and having fun on holiday. But you do need to be careful, and having the right protection in place just in case something happens is key."

Now, a staggering 92% of those who travelled without insurance and faced financial losses vow to always book insurance in the future.