Brits are jetting off to Spain, Italy and other European countries for ‘extreme day trips’
British holidaymakers are embracing a new ‘extreme day trip’ holiday trend but it might not be covered by travel insurance.
Day trips are nothing new, but jetting off to Spain, France, Italy or Germany and back in less than 24 hours has become more popular.
It’s seen as a cheaper option to tick off iconic locations from your bucket list, such as Rome or Barcelona, but what many don’t realise is that some insurance policies exclude trips under 24 hours or those without an overnight stay.
Read more: Huge surge in phone theft prompts call for urgent action
They essentially work as first flight out, last flight home, and have become a go-to for time-poor travellers.
Yet, Michelle Cooper, Director of Travel Insurance at Saga, cautions: “We’re seeing more people embrace extreme day trips: short, high-intensity trips where you fly out and back in the same day.
“But what many don’t realise is not all travel insurance policies provide cover for trips under 24 hours or those without an overnight stay.
“Travellers should take caution, as it’s an easy detail to overlook and even whirlwind getaways come with risk – like flight delays, cancellations or medical emergencies.
“In some cases, however, Saga may offer cover for independently booked flights or excursions if your extreme day trip is impacted.
“Regardless, we always recommend checking your policy carefully before booking this kind of trip and being aware of the risk.”
However, 40% of holidaymakers admit to buying travel insurance last-minute or not at all, according to a survey by Saga.
Michelle adds: “The best time to buy your travel insurance is right after you’ve booked a holiday.”
Only a third (33%) of Brits who buy single trip travel insurance get it at the right time, according to Saga’s survey.
Michelle continues: “Protecting your plans in the run-up to your holiday is just as important as when you’re there.”
“We recommend getting a policy that includes cancellation cover so you’re protected if you can’t go due to illness or there’s an unexpected turn of events, like your accommodation cancels your booking.
“Though some holiday providers do include cancellation cover as part of the holiday booking, so check this first.
