'Fifth of holidaymakers travel uninsured'

As many as 20% of UK holidaymakers are still going abroad without taking out travel insurance, a survey by travel organisation Abta found.

More than one in four travellers mistakenly believes the UK Government will cover their bills if something goes wrong.

The poll of 2,018 consumers also found that only 44% bought travel insurance for trips in the UK.

Abta's financial protection chief, John de Vial, said: "It is very worrying that so many people are putting their health and finances at risk by travelling abroad without insurance."

The survey results were released at the Abta annual convention in Palma, Majorca.

The survey also showed:

:: Safe and secure accommodation was the most important thing when booking a holiday;

:: Beach holidays and trips away with the family are the most popular breaks, followed by city trips and travelling with a partner;

:: Spain is the most popular destination for families, followed by the UK, USA, France, Greece and Italy;

:: More than half of the people who have taken a foreign holiday in the last six months booked through a travel agent or tour operator.

:: Women are significantly more likely to book a trip through a high street travel agent than men;

:: Consumers are prepared to make savings on eating out or home improvements rather than miss out on a holiday;

:: 50% think holidays should help local people and the local economy, with those aged 55-64 the firmest believers in sustainable tourism.

PA