UK Foreign Office warning to anyone going abroad this half term

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a 'make sure' alert

In the run-up to the October half term, the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to all families preparing to jet off. The FCDO plays a vital role in keeping British nationals in the loop on travel matters.

On Wednesday, a vital update urged families to "make sure" they have appropriate cover. A message from the official FCDO X account reads: "Got some family fun planned for this half-term? Make sure it's not a wild ride! Get travel insurance that covers all your planned activities."

Parents and guardians are encouraged to check out Gov.uk for more detailed guidance. Further Foreign Office advice reads: "Travel insurance is important. It provides protection and coverage for unexpected events that can happen on holiday.

"Travel insurance can cover a range of scenarios, such as medical emergencies and repatriation, lost or stolen baggage, trip cancellations or interruptions, and/or natural disasters. You must purchase cover that is appropriate for your travel plans.

"Travelling without the right cover can be very expensive if things do go wrong while you are abroad. If you buy a basic policy that does not provide enough medical coverage, you may get a big bill if you have an unexpected health issue on holiday."

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), travel insurance claims are increasing. In one instance from 2022, a traveller in Thailand encountered a severe blood infection, facing medical expenses of an eye-watering £250,000 covered by their insurer.

Another tourist in Spain required private treatment for a kidney infection, which resulted in medical costs amounting to £15,000.