Two thirds of young Brits say they have travelled abroad without health insurance, it has been revealed.
This could see travellers at risk of high costs for medical emergencies, flight cancellations or lost belongings – among other travel-related expenses.
Nearly half of Brits overall – 46 per cent – say they have travelled without taking out any form of travel insurance for trips abroad, according to a new study.
Many of those who opt to forgo travel insurance could leave themselves exposed to significant costs later down the line if things go wrong.
It comes despite the fact that more than a quarter of Brits (29 per cent) have claimed on travel insurance, for an average of over £4,500.
The results are from the survey of 2,000 Brits (18+) in October 2025 conducted by 3Gem on behalf of Compare the Market.
According to the poll, the top most common travel claim is trip cancellation due to illness, injury, or bereavement – in 49 per cent of cases.
It was also revealed 48 per cent claim for travel delays.
Nearly half of Brits overall – 46 per cent – say they have travelled without taking out any form of travel insurance for trips abroad, according to a new study
The third most common reason, for 45 per cent of claims, was emergency medical treatment.
Other common claims include emergency expenses, travel interruptions, delayed or damaged baggage.
Also on the list were missed flights or connections, theft of items, hotel or travel company cancellation or prescriptions and medication.
The new data suggests that younger travellers (aged 18 to 34) are most likely to skip cover altogether.
Two thirds (66 per cent) of this group say they’ve travelled without it.
This is because they as they think travel insurance is too expensive (58 per cent of cases) or find choosing a policy confusing (56 per cent) – putting them off purchasing a policy and leaving gaps in protection.
Holidaymakers should also check their policy meets individual needs and requirements as policies vary, with some trips needing specialist cover.
Emily Barnett, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, said travel insurance is highly important.
Many of those who opt to forgo travel insurance could leave themselves exposed to significant costs later down the line if things go wrong
She said: ‘Taking out travel insurance should be as instinctive as booking your flights, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances, for example should you need to cancel before you depart.’
It’s particularly important at this time of year, as lots of people are planning winter trips.
Emily added: ‘With the busy winter travel season upon us, whether it’s skiing in the Alps or a visit to the Christmas markets, it’s never been more important to make sure you have suitable cover in place before you set off.
‘We’re urging Brits to protect their trips early to give themselves peace of mind, so they can focus on making memories instead of mishaps.’