One in 10 people have already booked their summer 2019 holiday, with half choosing a European destination, according to research from Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Insurance.
Of the 5.6 million UK adults who have booked already, 49% have chosen Europe, 29% have opted for a staycation, 8% are going to North America, 7% to Asia and 5% to Australasia.
Many are dreaming of warmer climates with almost half (45%) planning a beach break. A quarter (26%) of travellers prefer a city break for their summer trip, while 13% will take a cruise.
Although some book their holidays 20 weeks in advance, the average traveller gets round to sorting their travel insurance only three months before their trip.
Over a tenth (16%) never take out travel insurance leaving them exposed to a range of potential issues from travel disruptions to medical bills should they become ill abroad.
Waiting for a good deal or special offer was the reason a quarter (25%) of UK adults hold off buying travel insurance. Over a tenth (14%) claimed they hadn’t had the time to purchase travel insurance.
Karen Hogg, head of insurance at Sainsbury’s Bank said: "Leaving your travel insurance until the last minute is a risky strategy as travellers could end up uninsured and out of pocket if they have to cancel their trip."
