Gap Year Travel Insurance and Gapyear holiday cover

The one thing that these intrepid explorers should not board their plane without however is quality travel insurance.

Having no cover in place could mean that hard earned cash, which was supposed to last the entirety of the trip, being spent out for example on medical expenses or replacing lost luggage. Or even worse their families having to foot a huge bill instead.

Perry Wilson, from travel insurance specialists InsureandGo, warns that this could be exactly the case: "More and more students are taking the opportunity to have a year out to explore the world. They will have the time of their lives but without insurance this could all change in a second should an accident or incident occur.

"For example an individual in a coma as the result of an accident could be looking at a bill of over £40,000 should they need to be flown back to the UK and that's just for the flight. With no insurance such a huge amount could mean his or her parents having to re-mortgage, or worse sell, their house to cover the cost. Even for a broken leg an individual could be looking at a bill of around £10,000 - hardly short change.

"This may seem extreme but backpackers have to be aware of the risks of not taking out insurance - especially when they are travelling so far from home for an extended period. By taking out our effective cover they, and their families, can be secure in the knowledge that they are covered for any eventuality and at a price that will not take a huge chunk out of their savings."

InsureandGo understands that for backpackers every penny counts and offers some of the lowest cost, but highest value policies available. The company's dedicated website for backpackers insurance offers a quick quote facility, along with advice on equipment, country information and a job network.

For the adventurous traveller InsureandGo's packages cover over 40 activities at no extra cost including bungee jumping, scuba diving, water skiing and white water rafting. Winter sports are included automatically in standard priced policies.

InsureandGo Backpacker Insurance Prices

Europe, three months: Standard - £37.08, Budget - £26.69
Australia/New Zealand only, 12 months: Standard £187.98, Budget - £135.34
Worldwide (exc USA and Canada), 12 months: Standard - £209.11, Budget - £150.56
Worldwide (inc USA and Canada), 12 months: Standard - £240.39, Budget - £173.08
Figures correct as at 25 June 2003

Ends

For further information or to interview Perry Wilson, please contact Stephanie on 01376 556 390 or email steph@insureandgo.com