Holidaying in the UK – Should you get insurance?

PROTECTING YOUR SUPER STAYCATION

Insurance is often near the top of the to-do list when we plan a foreign holiday. But most Brits who holiday at home rarely give it a second thought (the over 50s are even less likely to buy insurance for their UK holidays, according to Saga research). Why would you need it anyway? If you need medical attention, there’s the incredible NHS; you won’t lose your passport (because you won’t need to bring it), and flight delays aren’t going to cause you any strife.

But, glum as it is to consider, life can still throw a curveball, and some peace of mind could make for a more relaxing trip.

LIFE’S LITTLE UPS AND DOWNS

More than ever, we want flexibility when we book our hard-earned holiday. But hard decisions must be made if there’s a family emergency, illness, or a change of financial circumstances. But that might mean losing a deposit, a non-refundable (and pricey) train fare, or even the full cost of the holiday if that’s non-refundable, too. Serious illness might require emergency accommodation or a transfer to a hospital closer to home. Plus, being in ‘holiday mode’ can still mean things go missing – the pricey smartphone, tablet, or a treasured watch (although your home contents insurance might cover lost possessions – always best to check, though).

They’re sombre things to think of, but no less important than if you were jetting off abroad. As ever with insurance, sourcing the right policy takes a bit of research. Shop around and read the exclusions as carefully as the benefits. And, if you go ahead, it’s better to buy your insurance as soon as you book your trip – then you should be covered should anything upend your plans before your holiday starts.

IT’S YOUR PEACE OF MIND THAT MATTERS

On the bright side, the reassuring familiarity of staying in the UK means there are fewer cultural and logistical differences to navigate than if you head overseas. In short: you know your way around here.

You’ll know what works for you, and that bit of extra planning means all you should have to concentrate on is relaxing on your well-earned break.