Upturn in gap years strengthens need for travel insurance

Gap year students need to make sure that they take out comprehensive travel insurance before they depart, according to an industry expert.

Jon Pearce, spokesperson for Holidays Direct, said that this will cover any lost or stolen goods while in a foreign country, with cancellations and health benefits also part of some policies.

Gap year students should make sure that they give travel information to their family or close friends so that they know where they will be at any given time, while copies of passports, tickets and insurance documents should also be passed on.

"Check the validity of passports and any visas to ensure they are well in date of the time you travel. Be wise and think about your possessions when you're taking pictures and enjoying a coffee in a cafe; know where your possessions are and keep tight hold of them," he added.

O2 has recently moved into the travel insurance sector, offering a monthly rolling contract which can be changed to suit the gap year student's needs.

For more information on gap year planning.

( Last Updated: 2010-02-08 20:28:01)