Holidaymakers 'urged to get travel insurance'

Holidaymakers are being advised that cutting back on travel insurance may prove to be "an expensive mistake" should they be a victim of theft while on vacation.

The case for investing in single trip travel cover may have been highlighted as research shows a significant number of holidaymakers fall victim to theft while away.

Figures released by Direct Line Travel Insurance show that one-fifth of travellers have had something stolen, with mainland Spain the destination of a quarter of claims for theft.

However, 16 per cent of theft victims claim they did not have annual or single trip insurance in place - a figure which has doubled in the past three years - meaning they have to meet the cost of replacing their possessions out of their own pocket.

Cameras, cash and debit and credit cards are among the items most likely to be stolen.

Jennifer Thomas, spokesperson for Direct Line Travel Insurance, states: "Many people are looking for ways to save money on the cost of a holiday in the current economic climate, but cutting back on travel insurance could end up being an expensive mistake."

And travel insurance could be especially useful for England fans travelling to South Africa to watch this year's World Cup. AXA recently reported that having cover can "ease the financial burden" of being a victim of theft or travel delays.

By Bret Clement