Travel insurance

Travel expert Simon Calder has advice for those heading abroad

Students celebrating their A-level results are being urged to think carefully about safety before setting off on gap years and adventures abroad.

Travel expert Simon Calder has issued a stark warning to young people preparing to head overseas – telling them that risk management should be at the heart of their plans. Calder, speaking on The Travel Expert podcast with Telegraph journalist Greg Dickinson, said he wanted students to return home “in one piece with nothing but happy memories”.

His advice comes as thousands of young people consider gap years, holidays or trips abroad before starting university. Calder, who took a gap year himself, said there was plenty to gain from seeing the world – but warned that students and their parents should not overlook the potential dangers.

His top three concerns are: drugs and drink, accidents in water and road safety. Calder said: “If you are going to go on a gap year, the main thing to do is risk management.”

He added: “I am absolutely concerned to try to make sure that everybody comes back in one piece with nothing but happy memories.”

Drugs, drink and the risk of spiking

Calder’s first warning was about alcohol and recreational drugs. He acknowledged that many people drink and some take recreational drugs, but urged travellers to understand the risks – including the possibility of their drink being spiked.

He also specifically warned students about methanol poisoning, which has tragically killed travellers overseas. His message was not simply to avoid excessive drinking or drugs, but to understand the potentially serious consequences of what can happen abroad.

And students should never allow alcohol or drugs to lead them into taking unnecessary risks. Calder warned against doing things such as hiring a scooter or going for a midnight swim after consuming drink or drugs.

Take care around water

Calder’s second major warning was about accidents in water. Young travellers heading to beaches, islands and other holiday destinations are urged to understand the dangers posed by strong currents.

One particular hazard is a rip current – a powerful current of water moving away from the shore which can quickly carry swimmers out to sea. Calder said travellers should “make absolutely sure that you know how to identify a rip tide” and understand what to do if caught in one.

The important message is not to panic or try to fight directly against the current.

Road safety

Calder stressed there was one danger that sat “absolutely top of my risk list” , which is road safety. He warned that road risks can increase sharply once travellers leave Britain.

“As soon as you leave the UK, risks start to multiply on the roads,” he said. His advice was to consider how you are going to travel around a country before setting off.

He suggested that, where appropriate, using trains or flying in countries with high road accident rates could reduce the risks faced by young travellers. Calder’s warning is particularly relevant to gap-year students who may be tempted to hire scooters or motorcycles as a cheap and convenient way of getting around.

Thailand warning

The discussion also turned to Thailand, a hugely popular destination for young British travellers. Dickinson warned that students should not assume the country is a place where drug use is tolerated simply because of its reputation for parties and nightlife.

He specifically highlighted the famous Full Moon parties – but stressed that Thailand has strict drug laws. Travellers can face serious consequences for possessing or taking illegal drugs. Dickinson said: “They’re extremely strict on drugs, so you basically need to not get involved with that whatsoever.”

Jet2 has issued a serious alert to holidaymakers

Jet2 has issued a warning to holidaymakers who have booked a certain type of hotel room, amid a very busy summer for international travel.

The operator took to X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday morning (August 18) to share some important safety guidance with those who will be staying in a hotel room with a balcony. Jet2 said: “Booked a hotel with a balcony? Follow the safety advice, avoid risky behaviour and keep an eye on friends who might be unsteady.

“Hotels can fine or evict you for unsafe behaviour – and your insurance might not cover balcony incidents. One slip can change everything.”

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) reminds travellers that Brits have been seriously injured, or killed, after falling from hotel balconies while abroad. Many falls involve alcohol and people are urged not to try to jump from balcony to balcony, or to climb up to get into their room from the balcony.

Holidaymakers should also never jump from a balcony into a swimming pool. FCDO guidance for Spain adds that hotels and other establishments “will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies”. You could also get a fine.

The FCDO advises Brits heading abroad not to take any unnecessary risks around balconies or other elevated areas, especially while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. “If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice at the hotel or apartment, and watch out for friends who may be at risk.”

In certain areas, you could face a fine or be thrown out of your hotel if you are found to be acting irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance provider may not pay out for incidents that occur on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when the incident took place.

They fear replacement flights today may also be grounded

A couple have been trapped in Italy for a week after a volcanic eruption saw their flights cancelled. Barbara Krmelj, 35, and partner Roy Barone, 46, went to Sicily to spend a week’s holiday with his parents. They were due to fly back to their home in Hackney, east London, on August 11 – but when Mount Etna became active that day, their flights were cancelled as a red warning level was issued.

The couple have had to take an extra week’s leave from their jobs and find alternative sitters for their two cats back at home as they remain “trapped” in the seaside town of Marina di Modica. They have alternative flights provided by the airline for August 17 but anticipate having to pay around £700 to rebook with a different airline if those are cancelled too, which they feel is likely.

They remain in a small holiday home owned by Roy’s family but say they “feel like a weight on his parents” to overstay. They checked but said the only hotel available would have cost over £2,000 for five nights because of high demand as it coincides with Ferragosto, a holiday period across Italy which sees people flock to the region.

Sales associate Barbara said: “On the way to the airport to fly back to London we got a message that our flight was cancelled. Eventually we managed to get a flight for the 17th, but the budget we allocated for our holiday is gone now. We have come back to Roy’s parents but the place is small and we feel like a weight on them now. We’ve had to organise for our friends to pop over to our home in London because the cat sitters we booked are done now.

“We’ve been paying for things like food and drinks with credit cards – and if we aren’t able to fly on the 17th we’ll have to book new flights. If we have to book new flights it will have cost us around £1,000 in total. It’s a beautiful city, but the holiday has turned into a frustration now as we want to go back home to our pets now. We can’t enjoy all the beauty around us as we feel trapped on the island.”

Barbara and Roy have been paying elevated prices for taxis to travel around due to high demand due to the Ferragosto festival. They said they have seen a steady flow of ash over the region as well as eruptions in the distance coming from Mount Etna.

The couple did not purchase travel insurance ahead of the trip. Barbara said: “We have had a chat with a few other tourists, people are definitely frustrated. People have been sleeping at the airport – when we went, people were sleeping or sitting in every hallway. There was no space even to sit and organise ourselves when we were trying to rebook flights.

“We were given a hotel for one night when our flights were cancelled, and thank God we have Roy’s parents here. I don’t know what people are doing when they don’t know other people living here.

“When we tried to go and stay at a hotel, there was nothing we could book, the prices had skyrocketed, it was around £2,000 for five days and there were only one or two options.”

The couple are going to the beach each day and trying to make the best of their situation but say they are no longer enjoying the once-relaxing trip. Barbara added: “We’ll have spent over our budget by about £1,000 if we end up having to rebook flights.

“We’ve been using credit cards because you do what you have to do in this situation, but we have to be careful, we don’t have a lot of money left because we didn’t expect this. Ordinarily, the holiday was lovely, and I’d recommend the area to everyone. But now the holiday has turned into a frustration.”

Haylet Waters says her daughter was only ill because it was 30C in the airport and their flight had been delayed

A family was left stranded on a Greek island after Jet2 refused to let them fly home because their six-year-old daughter was sick in the departure lounge. Hayley Waters, 37, was waiting at Rhodes Airport with husband Jason, 40, and kids Addyson, six, and Xander, three, when the youngster vomited at the gate.

She said staff immediately barred the family from boarding their delayed flight to Leeds Bradford Airport shortly after midnight. They were told they could not travel with Jet2 for at least 24 hours and would have to arrange their own accommodation, transport and alternative flights – which cost them around £1,000.

Hayley, a performance analyst from Leeds, West Yorks., said: “While waiting at the gate, my six-year-old daughter was sick once. I cleaned it up immediately. She’d had no illness all holiday – she was simply exhausted after the delay, it was around midnight, and over 30C in the airport.”

The family had been due to catch the 11.15pm flight on July 31, which eventually departed at around 12.05am. They were travelling as part of a larger group of nine when a member of Jet2 staff spotted Addyson being sick.

But Hayley said nobody assessed her daughter or asked whether she had been ill during the holiday before the family was stopped from boarding. She said: “The only explanation given was ‘policy’ because my daughter had been sick.

“Nobody asked whether she had any underlying medical conditions, whether she’d been unwell during the holiday, or how she was feeling. No medical assessment was carried out – the decision was based solely on a member of staff seeing her vomit once.”

The family were forced to book an easyJet flight to Newcastle for the following day to get home. Hayley said: “We have no written explanation for why we were denied boarding, no paperwork, no medical assessment, no duty of care, and we were left stranded abroad with two young children.”

Jet2 said its team in Rhodes had followed procedures and helped the family find somewhere to stay. The airline said staff also advised them to retain their receipts so they could make a claim through their travel insurance.

A Jet2 spokesperson said: “The safety and wellbeing of our customers is our absolute priority, and our teams have processes in place to help prevent the spread of illness onboard our aircraft. We are sorry to hear that Mrs Waters was unhappy with her experience and we are in contact with her to discuss the matter further.”

However, Hayley has disputed the airline’s claim that it had been in contact with her. The airline said it had promised a response within 14 days, by August 20, and remained on track to provide one.

Hayley said the family have not had acknowledgement that their written complaint has been received – and that they have not been told about the timescales Jet2 are working to.

The alerts have triggered health warnings for millions of people, including tourists

Anyone going on holiday to certain parts of Europe has been issued a health warning from an NHS GP. It comes as numerous alerts have been issued in several well-known areas due to severe heat across many popular tourist destinations.

All 27 of Italy’s major cities are now under extreme heat alerts as a blistering heatwave hits Europe. The severe weather has caused temperatures to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in multiple countries, prompting health alerts for millions of people, including tourists and families going abroad during the six-week holiday.

On Thursday, Italy’s Health Ministry issued a red alert for all 27 cities in its national heat surveillance system. This marks the first time this year that the entire network has reached the highest warning level simultaneously. The red alert network spans key areas, starting in Trieste in the northeast and extending to Palermo in Sicily – including Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Naples, Turin, and Bologna.

In response to this, NHS GP Dr John Akinjolire is urging travellers not to underestimate the risks. He is warning that soaring temperatures can quickly lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

The GP has shared the simple steps holidaymakers should take before and during their trip to stay safe in the heat. He’s also shared the key warning signs to watch for and how to access healthcare if they become ill while abroad.

NHS GP Dr John Akinjolire, working with travel insurance company PayingTooMuch, explained how you can avoid heatstroke when travelling during a heatwave in Europe. He said: “With temperatures reaching 40°C in parts of France, Spain and Portugal, alongside active wildfires across these countries and Greece, travellers should be aware that this is more than a typical summer heatwave.”

In an important reminder, he said: “Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, particularly for people with underlying medical conditions.” The health expert says people with heart disease, diabetes or respiratory conditions may find that high temperatures place extra strain on their health.

“If you’re travelling near the ongoing wildfires, the smoke can also worsen breathing problems, even in those who do not usually experience respiratory issues,” he warned. “Before travelling, it’s important to store temperature-sensitive medication such as insulin correctly, check air quality forecasts as well as the weather, and be aware that some medications like certain antibiotics, acne treatments and antidepressants, can increase sensitivity to the sun.”

He says staying well hydrated is important and it’s worth remembering that alcohol accelerates dehydration, so drinking more than usual in the heat can increase risk significantly. He added: “It is advisable to avoid prolonged periods in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day typically between 11am and 3pm, wearing lightweight clothing and seeking shade wherever possible can all help reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”

The NHS GP says it is important to know the difference between the two. “Heat exhaustion can usually be managed with rest, shade and fluids, but heatstroke, where the body can no longer regulate its own temperature, is a medical emergency requiring urgent attention,” he said. “Signs to watch for include confusion, a lack of sweating despite the heat, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.”

Travellers should also familiarise themselves with how healthcare works in their destination. Unlike the NHS, many European countries require patients to pay for treatment upfront before claiming costs back even if you have a GHIC.

Access to care can also vary, particularly in more remote areas such as the smaller Greek islands. Serious medical emergencies in these parts may require transfer to a larger island or the mainland.

“These risks should not discourage people from travelling, but they do highlight the importance of preparation,” the NHS GP said “Having comprehensive travel insurance that accurately reflects any pre-existing medical conditions, alongside the right medication, lightweight clothing and other essentials for extreme heat, can protect you in case you find yourself becoming unwell while abroad.”

It affects many across the UK this summer

The Post Office has issued a new alert to people across the UK. It said there had been a “staggering increase of 900% in travel scams over the past 18 months”. It said this was largely driven by advances in AI and its specialists are now warning tourists of five common scams many are falling for.

Regulators have warned that £11 million was lost to holiday fraud in 2024 alone , with opportunistic scammers taking advantage of rising last‐minute bookings and a surge in travel deals. Almost a third (30%) of adults have fallen victim to a travel scam or know someone who has, the Post Office said. To help holidaymakers protect themselves, Post Office is sharing practical tips for identifying and avoiding holiday scams.

Post Office tips to avoid scams on holiday

Unlicensed or fake tour guides

In busy, tourist hotspots, unlicensed guides will walk alongside you, offering an informal tour before demanding payment. To avoid this, always book tickets for attractions and tours through official sites, at museum kiosks or through accredited providers.

‘Are you lost?’

Being lost in a place you have never been to is normal. Locals who may initially seem friendly might offer directions or even take you to where you need to be. This usually ends in an aggressive payment demand. If you need assistance, seek help from inside a shop or cafe, consult a map or use your phone’s GPS for directions.

Friendship bracelets

Popular in major European cities, scammers place a “friendship bracelet” around your wrist under the guise of a free gift, then refuse to remove it without payment. Avoid engaging and keep walking if you are approached.

AI travel agents

Scammers are now using AI voice‐cloning technology to impersonate a travel agent or loved ones to get money. Warning signs include unnatural pauses in conversation, high‐pressure tactics, requests for immediate payment or changes to banking details. Always verify credentials through official websites, confirmed phone numbers, or multiple channels before acting.

Closed attractions

Fraudsters might claim a landmark is closed due to an event or maintenance, then divert travellers to a shop or unofficial tour where they receive a commission. Always check operating hours on the attraction’s official website, app or posted signage before altering your plans.

Adam Edinburgh, head of Post Office travel and new products, said: “The way scams work has changed from classic street cons with digital deception, from fake booking pages to AI‐cloned voices. Awareness is your first defence: pause before you pay, verify through official channels and be sceptical of unsolicited ‘help’.

“If something still goes wrong, having travel insurance protects you against theft, fraud and trip disruption, covering lost money, passports and valuables if you’re pickpocketed or scammed. If fake accommodation or missing documents leave you stranded, 24/7 assistance can help with replacements and new travel plans.”

Travel plans for around 1.6 million UK tourists heading to Italy were disrupted Rome, Milan, Venice and Naples hit by red alert. Greece helicopters fight fire despite midair crash which one Brit crew member miraculously survived.

Extreme weather brought chaos across Europe today, with warnings of 40C (104F) temperatures in some of the worst-hit countries.

Travel plans for about 1.6 million UK tourists heading to Italy were disrupted as nearly every city was placed on ‘red alert’ for extreme heat. Cities from north to south – including the capital Rome, Milan, Venice and Naples – were warning residents and tourists about the health risks. Temperatures have hit the mid-30sC in many places.

Authorities warned the ‘healthy and active’ were also at risk; not just groups including the elderly, very young children and people with chronic illnesses. Meanwhile, five water-dropping planes and five helicopters took off at dawn today to help firefighters near Athens – after a midair collision in which a Brit helicopter crew member miraculously survived.

The collision between the two fire-fighting choppers showed the extreme danger on the frontline of Europe’s wildfire emergency. Flames bore deeper into the region of the Greek capital, forcing fresh evacuations in the early hours. A Greek national and a Dane died when their helicopter collided with another near the seaside area of Psatha.

The British national and another local man were taken to a hospital, where their injuries were reported as minor. Foreign firefighting and helicopter crews are often deployed in Greece to help tackle wildfires during the country’s hot, dry summers.

More than 1,000 people have been evacuated from the region, including more than 250 rescued by boat from beaches in Greece. Evacuation orders were issued for three more areas, while crews worked to create firebreaks in a forest to help halt the blaze’s advance

In France, firefighters guarded a still-burning scar four times the size of Paris. The blaze raged through pine forests and scrubland over the weekend, whipped by gale force winds that often prevented water-dropping planes from operating.

Hungary is facing power cuts after the drought sweeping across much of Europe forced its only nuclear power plant to shut down. Peter Magyar, the prime minister, said the country was preparing for a “critical” week after the level of the Danube River, which cools the plant, fell to a record low.

The government was considering applying mandatory electricity restrictions for large companies starting today, Mr Magyar said: “We are facing the most critical five days ahead,” he said in a Facebook video.

The Paks power plant will not be generating, while the hottest, 40C days are ahead. The power grid, our public services, and we ourselves will all come under enormous strain.

The Danube has fallen to its lowest level in 30 years in several countries, including Romania. The drought has triggered water-use restrictions in more than 100 cities and villages, including on the outskirts of Budapest.

Mr Magyar called on companies, public institutions, local governments and households to significantly reduce or reschedule electricity use during evening peak hours between 5pm and 10pm.

Italy is in the midst of its fourth extreme heatwave of the summer, with temperatures hitting 40C in many parts of the country. According to official estimates, a total of 17.4 million tourists will be travelling in Italy until August 23, including 8.4 million Italians and nine million visitors from abroad, with about 1.6m expected from the UK.

Dash firefighting aircraft were seen through smoke as they flew over a wildfire in Correns, southeastern France, though the situation in the area was largely under control. Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said wildfires in Greece were ‘deeply worrying’ for UK travellers.

He said: “It’s essential, however, that travellers don’t cancel their trips, especially those not due to travel for the next week or two. Travellers who cancel now will likely forfeit the right to a refund or rebooking, and you’re unlikely to be able to claim on travel insurance, as the FCDO has not warned against travel to the affected regions.

“Where possible, holidaymakers should wait until closer to their departure date to see if their holiday can go ahead or what flexible booking options may be offered by their tour operator or airline. Travel companies will be prioritising anyone due to depart in the next couple of days.”

Jet2 has issued an important travel insurance alert for passengers that affects anyone with these common health conditions

Jet2 has issued a travel alert to passengers about an important declaration they must make, or they could face ‘rejection’. It comes as millions of flight seats are set to depart from UK airports during the six-week summer break as Brits make the most of the school holidays.

As exciting as it can be to go on holiday, plans could easily be ruined if certain documents aren’t filled out correctly – including travel insurance. Sorting travel insurance as soon as you book a holiday is crucial, as it is not just for medical emergencies abroad, but for protecting your upfront investment from day one.

It’s important to declare all health conditions when you’re buying travel insurance. This is because standard policies usually don’t cover pre-existing medical conditions, and if you don’t mention them, you could lose your coverage entirely.

Jet2 reiterated this point in a social media alert posted on X this week. The popular UK airline told passengers: “Going away this summer? Declare your medical conditions when you buy travel insurance – it could save you thousands. If your details aren’t up to date, your claim could be rejected.”

Medical conditions can include, but are not limited to:

• Heart conditions/stroke
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Respiratory conditions (such as asthma)
• Mental health conditions
• Any form of cancer

For passengers with common health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, declaring them is vital as these conditions are major risk factors for heart and metabolic issues. Insurers typically see them as directly related to serious and expensive medical emergencies.

Even if your health is stable and controlled with medication, these conditions are still seen as serious warning signs for possible health problems. If you don’t disclose them, your emergency medical coverage could be completely void, and you would be responsible for hospital costs that could easily amount to tens of thousands of pounds.

A statement on the Gov.uk Travel Aware page explains: “You must declare all pre-existing medical conditions when buying travel insurance. If you already have cover, you should check that your list of medical conditions is updated before each trip abroad.

“Failure to do this could mean your claim is rejected if you have a medical emergency while travelling. You must be honest about any medical conditions you have, to avoid risking a big bill. Check your policy to see what you need to declare.”

It added: “A British national was hospitalised and admitted to intensive care following a stroke while abroad. The insurance provider refused to cover the medical costs after it emerged the individual had not declared a previous stroke. As a result, the family was left to meet significant medical expenses.”

What is a pre-existing medical condition?

According to Jet2, any of the following medical conditions from which you have suffered or received medical advice, treatment (including surgery, tests, investigations by your doctor/consultant /specialist) or prescribed drugs or medication in the last five years include:

1. Any cancer condition (including leukaemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and any type of skin cancer)
2. Any heart-related or blood circulatory condition (including high blood pressure and high cholesterol)
3. Any diabetic condition
4. Any neurological condition (including stroke, brain haemorrhage, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and dementia)
5. Any breathing condition (including asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
6. Any renal, kidney or liver condition
7. Any psychiatric or psychological condition (including anxiety, stress and depression)
8. Any chronic condition that can be controlled but not cured (including back pain, Crohn’s, diverticular and coeliac disease and ulcerative colitis)

And/or any other medical condition for which you have been prescribed medication or which you have received or are waiting to receive treatment (including surgery, tests, or investigations) within the last 12 months.

Travel experts are suggesting British holidaymakers are opting for so-called ‘coolcations’ this summer as wildfires ravage parts of Europe including Spain, France, Italy and Portugal

Wildfires are currently raging across large parts of southern Europe. France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece have all been affected – and this could potentially have a knock-on effect to British summer holiday plans.

These nations are often among those favoured by UK tourists during the warm summer months, but these nations may be too warm at the moment with temperatures surging past 40C.

France’s president Emmanuel Macron described the escalating situation as the nation’s worst wildfire crisis since World War Two, with firefighters battling blazes around the clock. Flames are also spreading at an alarming rate across Spain, while active fires continue to rage in northern and central Portugal, as well as Sicily and parts of southern Italy.

With this in mind travel experts have been suggesting potential alternatives if people want to take a so-called ‘coolcation’, and one name keeps cropping up.

Several industry insiders suggested to Reach PLC that people might consider visiting Norway, and Scandinavia more broadly, owing to the milder temperatures that come with heading north instead of south, reports the Express.

Jacqueline Mondelli, of travel insurance marketplace Squaremouth, was among those to recommend Norway. She added: “Similar to last summer, we’re seeing coolcations draw travellers away from the traditional European hotspots like Italy, France, and Spain, in lieu of cooler climates and outdoor adventures.”

Emily Grossman, travel expert with the site TrustedHousesitters, said Norway could be a possibility for travellers looking for cooler climes: “For holiday travellers still weighing up their plans, it’s worth considering destinations less exposed to extreme heat and drought.

“We’re already seeing cooler summer climate choices reflected in TrustedHousesitters’ booking data. House-sitting stays in Norway up nearly 30% year-on-year, and Denmark is up over 24%.”

Norway, Denmark and Sweden are all straightforward to get to from the UK, with direct flights available from a range of airports across the country.

Alicia Hempstead, travel insurance expert at MoneySupermarket.com, suggested that those planning a holiday might want to look towards Scandinavia as an alternative destination.

She said: “As wildfires are unpredictable and can arise at any moment, especially during periods of extreme heat, it’s difficult to say where people should choose instead.

“However, the safest approach would be to choose destinations that are less prone to extreme heat, for example, countries in Scandinavia such as Denmark or Sweden.”

Tim Gunstone, of HotelPlanner, was in agreement, saying: “Tourists are choosing cooler European destinations and to travel to the hottest destinations in October rather than August.

“The biggest winner has been Scandinavia. This has seen August bookings grow by a massive 120%.”

Bryce Collins, founder of INTRO Travel, said: “If you’re set on Europe, head north. The nordics rarely see the extremes, and anywhere on a coast or a big lake stays cooler, there’s something calming about having all that water around.”

If you’re heading to the beach you may see this fun-looking activity on offer, but tourists are being warned that taking part could invalidate your insurance – and other surprising things can also see your insurer refuse to pay out

When you’re on a sunny holiday overseas, it’s likely you get more adventurous and trying some new activities or sports can look more appealing, especially after a few drinks.

But holidaymakers are being warned that taking part in a variety of activities can invalidate your travel insurance, meaning that an accident could leave you up to £80,000 out of pocket.

The travel insurance team at Quotezone.co.uk listed seven holiday activities that could interfere with your travel insurance coverage, and many of them are popular in holiday hotspots. According to its study, 36% would like to try an activity-filled holiday, and 35% said they can’t relax when they are just sunbathing, meaning lots of Brits would be tempted to try out one of these high-octane activities when bored.

Banana boats were among the activities that Quotezone cautioned Brits against. It said: “Whilst most standard travel insurance policies do include banana boats under general water sports, it’s important to do so safely. Not wearing a life jacket, being under the influence of alcohol, or going on a boat that isn’t run by a licensed operator could all result in a rejected claim should you get injured.”

Another thing to look out for on the beach is organised sports events. With the popularity of fitness breaks growing, many Brits now take part in organised sports activities as part of their holiday, but physical strain and injuries might not be covered under your travel insurance in these cases.

Water sports such as scuba diving and jet-skiing can also be risky and may need specialist cover. Some policies cover scuba activities, but only up to a certain depth, and if you don’t dive with a qualified instructor or neglect to follow local laws, you may not be covered in an accident.

Back on dry land, any activities with wheels can be a danger, from hiring a scooter or motorbike to go karting, especially if you don’t wear a helmet or follow local laws. Quad biking is another activity that’s rarely covered by standard insurance policies, but an accident can be extremely costly. A quad biking accident in Greece, for example, that includes surgery and medical repatriation could carry costs of over £80,000 for someone without adequate insurance.

Helen Rolph , travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Many Brits don’t realise that popular holiday activities like jet-skiing or quad biking could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket if they’re not properly insured.

“Even if coverage is in place, claims can still be rejected if local safety laws are broken, the holidaymakers don’t wear a helmet or are found to be under the influence of alcohol.

“When heading abroad, people often think activities like banana boating and go karting, popular with young travellers, stag and hen parties – are included as standard, but this is rarely the case and could leave thrill-seekers at risk.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Brits have been urged to make two essential passport checks before heading abroad this summer as data shows more than one million UK passports could fail entry requirements

British travellers heading to France, Greece, Italy and Spain have been urged to make a crucial passport check before heading on their summer holidays as new data reveals more than one million UK passports could fail entry requirements.

Brits entering the EU Schengen area must have a passport issued less than ten years before the start of the trip and have an expiry date at least three months after the return.

New data reveals that more than 705,000 UK passports currently have fewer than three months’ validity remaining, meaning travellers would be unable to board their plane.

A further 350,000 were issued more than a decade ago, meaning more than one million could fail entry requirements for some overseas destinations.

Holidaymakers have been urged to check their passports before travelling abroad in the coming months following this new analysis of HM Passport Office data from June 2026.

The 10-year rule is particularly relevant for travellers whose passports were issued before September 2018. Before then, when renewing a passport, HM Passport Office could add up to nine months of unused validity from an old passport to a new one.

This means some passports may still be in date but no longer meet the Schengen entry requirements.

In total, HM Passport Office data shows that 2.37 million passports are due to expire during 2026.

Tim Knighton, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, said: “Many travellers assume if they have a valid passport they can travel overseas without any issues, but that’s not always the case.

“Some countries, including many popular European destinations, require several months’ validity extending beyond the length of a trip, so it’s important to check the entry requirements for each destination before travelling.

“With more than 700,000 UK passports now having less than three months’ validity remaining, it’s worth travellers taking a few minutes to check theirs before heading abroad.

“Renewing a passport early could help avoid unnecessary stress and reduce the risk of holiday plans being disrupted.”

There are some items that are best kept in your hand luggage for safe keeping, so make sure these items don’t end up in your big suitcase when you go away for your summer holidays this year

No matter how many times you go on holiday, packing is always an awkward task, as you need to balance the lack of space with the essentials.

And if you have checked luggage in addition to a cabin bag, you may be tempted to throw most of the things you own into your hold baggage. This means you have less stuff to carry around the airport and onto the plane with you.

But there are some things you should never put in checked luggage, and it’s not just the obvious stuff like weapons and flammable items. Here are five items to never send to the hold.

1. Prescription medication

Overall, less than 1% of hold luggage goes missing, and usually it’s simply misdirected, so it will eventually make its way to you. But while you try to retrieve your bag, it’s a good idea to have supplies of essential items.

Prescription medication is better taken as hand luggage, as it’s much less likely to go missing. If there’s a delay with your hold bag getting back to you, you won’t need to worry about missing vital doses of your meds.

If you do lose your medication when travelling, visit a local pharmacy for advice, as they may be able to arrange an emergency supply.

2. Batteries and electronics

Because of the risk of items such as power banks catching fire, items with lithium batteries, such as power banks and vapes, can’t be placed in hold luggage and must be taken onboard with you.

Some airlines have limits on how many Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) can be taken onboard, with Jet2 and Ryanair restricting the number to 15 per passenger. Ryanair also has a limit of 20 lithium batteries or power banks, each up to 100Wh, in hand baggage.

3. Valuable items

If you have jewellery, cash or other expensive items, you may be nervous about carrying them around in your backpack at the airport. However, it’s not a good idea to leave valuables in your checked-in bags.

There’s a risk of damage to items in transit, and while it’s rare, theft from bags does happen by airport staff. While travel insurance does cover lost baggage, it usually has a limit and policies have an excess to pay, meaning you may not be able to claim enough to cover valuable items.

4. Swimwear

When you’re on the way to a sunny beach holiday, you may want to pack swimwear in your hand luggage rather than your big suitcase. This means that if there is a delay in getting your bag to you, you can at least spend some time on the beach or by the pool while you wait for your bag to arrive.

It also means that if you can’t check into your room straight away when you arrive, you can just change into your swimwear and enjoy some sunshine while you wait for your room to be ready.

5. Phone charger and adapter

Once you arrive at your destination, your phone battery is going to be as low as your energy levels, and you won’t want to be scrambling through your suitcase to find your charger.

Ensure you’ve got your phone charger and adapter for the country you’re visiting in your hand luggage so you can get plugged in as soon as you arrive.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Latest travel advice for updated information about travelling with medication

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an alert today (July 17), updating its travel advice for British tourists travelling to the European hotspot with medication. With the peak travel season almost here, families up and down the country are set to go away on holiday as schools close, with Portugal a top pick for many.

Plenty of people will pack various medications with them when going on holiday, and for anyone going to Portugal, the FCDO has shared the latest information to keep in mind. It says: “The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.”

The FCDO says there are strict rules around dispensing certain medicines in Portugal, including antibiotics. It explains: “UK prescriptions are not recognised so bring in Portugal.

“Carry enough medication for your visit. Keep the medication in the original container with the prescription label. UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal. Carry enough medication for your visit.”

It continues: “If you need a repeat prescription, go to the nearest health centre or hospital A&E. You may have to pay for your medication. You will need to go to a pharmacy to get most medicines, though some non-prescription medication is sold at health stores in supermarkets and shopping centres. Find a pharmacy on the Pharmacy Association website.”

Holiday-goers can read best practices when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. Changes to your routine when travelling, such as later nights, coping with heat and changes to your diet, can have an impact on your medication. See the Summer Proof Your Health campaign for more information.

Key advice when travelling with medication from FCDO

Check your destination before bringing medication with you. The FCDO advises reviewing the specific country page for the place you are visiting (and transiting). Many include a ‘Health’ section with medication notes. Some countries have strict rules on certain medicines (including over-the-counter ones). Generally, it is best to:

• Carry medication in its original pharmacy packaging, with a copy of your prescription and a letter from your prescriber/doctor.
• Keep it primarily in hand luggage (with some extra in hold luggage as backup).
• Take enough for your entire trip plus extra for delays.
• The legal status of your medication (including some OTC items) can differ abroad — some countries ban or restrict substances legal in the UK.

What are the rules for controlled drugs like certain painkillers?

• For quantities of three months’ supply or more, you may need a UK export licence (apply at least 10 days in advance).
• Carry a doctor’s letter detailing your name, the medication (generic name, dose, quantity), travel dates, and reason.
• Always check rules for your destination country via its embassy/high commission in the UK.

Travellers can stay up to date with the latest travel advice on the FCDO country page. There is also the NaTHNaC Medicines factsheet. Gov.uk also offers guidance on taking medicine in or out of the UK. People can also contact the destination country’s embassy for specific import rules.

Brits with holidays booked this year to Europe could risk facing issues entering Europe if they don’t check a number on their passport well in advance

Schools across the UK will close for the six-week summer holiday, and thousands of families will be taking the opportunity to spend time together abroad during the peak travel season. However, a travel insurance specialist has issued an alert urging people to check a specific number on their passports before they jet away to avoid risk of being refused entry to Europe.

Travellers with passports issued before 2018 are being warned that they could face issues entering Europe if they don’t check a specific number, thanks to a ’10-year passport rule’. New analysis from Saga Travel Insurance found that the EU and Schengen ’10-year passport rule’ was the most discussed passport concern among travellers on Reddit, with discussions amassing 35,417 upvotes across the platform.

The Schengen area is a group of 29 European countries where travellers can move between countries without routine passport checks. It includes popular holiday destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal.

Michelle Cooper, Director of Saga Travel Insurance, said: “EU and Schengen countries require passports to be less than 10 years old on the day of entry. While all new passports last exactly ten years, passports issued before 2018 remain valid for 10 years and nine months.

“If you have an older passport, make sure you check both the issue date and expiry date before travelling to avoid problems at the border.” Michelle warns that passengers travelling with these 10-year and nine-month passports may face issues travelling in Europe if they’re in the final nine months of their passport.”

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The analysis also found that more than three-quarters (80%) of holidaymakers are unaware that different countries have different passport validity requirements, according to Saga Travel Insurance’s survey. Meanwhile, half (50%) believe that every country requires a passport to have six months remaining before travel.

Michelle said: “It’s important to check the specific rules of the country you’re travelling to so that you know how long you need to keep your passport. Some destinations require three months remaining on your passport, while others require six months.

“If you travel to a country without enough time left on your passport, there is a possibility you’ll be denied entry into the country. This could be by your airline, before flying, or by border security, once you reach your destination. If you’re denied boarding or refused entry because your passport doesn’t meet those rules, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs such as cancelled accommodation, missed flights or return travel expenses.

“This is because the responsibility typically sits with the traveller to ensure their passport meets the entry requirements of the country they’re visiting. That’s why checking your passport carefully before travelling is one of the most important things you can do before a holiday.”

Frequent flyers could be turned away for not having enough blank passport pages

Some countries require travellers to have a minimum number of blank pages remaining in their passports for stamps and visas. Michelle says: “People can sometimes focus entirely on expiry dates and forget to check how many blank pages they have left, but some destinations can refuse entry if there isn’t enough room for official stamps or visa documentation.

“If you’re a frequent traveller, you should regularly check how many blank pages you have remaining in your passport before booking a trip. You might also benefit from purchasing a passport with additional blank pages.

“As travel systems evolve, including the gradual rollout of digital border systems such as the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), physical passport stamping may become less common. But for now, requirements can still vary depending on destination and border process.”

What should you do if you lose your passport?

One in 20 (5%) Brits have needed an emergency replacement passport before travelling, according to Saga Travel Insurance’s survey. And, one in 25 (4%) have cancelled a holiday because they couldn’t find their passport before departure.

Michelle says: “If you lose your passport before travelling, you can apply for a one-week fast-track application. This is an in-person application that requires an appointment, so it’s important to factor in booking availability – as well as the additional cost. It’s £76 more than a standard passport but means you should still be able to go on holiday.

“If you lose your passport while abroad, you should report this to the HM Passport Office as soon as possible. You will also need to apply for an emergency travel document online so that you can travel home. You’ll typically need a valid digital passport photo, your phone number, an email address, and a debit or credit card to make the £125 payment.

“If the loss of your passport means that you need to delay or rearrange your journey home, travel insurance may be able to help with some of the associated costs depending on your policy. Check your insurance documents and contact your insurer as soon as possible to understand your next steps.”

Brits warned over new ETIAS travel checks for Europe

From late 2026, British travellers visiting most European countries will need to apply for a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling. The new system is similar to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme and will apply to visa-exempt travellers visiting 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Michelle says: “Travellers may not realise that visiting Europe will soon involve an additional pre-travel authorisation step. From late 2026, British holidaymakers will need to apply for ETIAS approval before travelling to many popular European destinations. The authorisation will be linked directly to your passport, meaning travellers could be denied boarding if their ETIAS details don’t match their travel document or if the authorisation has expired.

“Most ETIAS applications are expected to be processed within minutes, but it could take longer if additional checks are required. Holidaymakers should apply well in advance of departure to avoid last-minute disruptions.”

She added: “Similar systems already exist elsewhere. For example, UK travellers visiting the United States must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before departure. These systems are becoming more common globally, so it’s important to check requirements for each destination well ahead of travel.

“As with passport validity rules, people are responsible for making sure they have the correct travel authorisation before they leave the country. If someone is unable to travel because they failed to obtain valid ETIAS or ESTA approval, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs associated with denied boarding or cancelled trips.”

If your destination falls victim to a wildfire or other extreme event, what should you do, and can you get your money back? A consultant for independent financial research company Defaqto has explained what Brits need to look out for

Many Brits will be heading off to Spain for the busy summer season in the coming weeks, and no doubt seeing the headlines about wildfires will cause some alarm if you’ve got a holiday booked.

Wildfires broke out in the Almería province of Spain last week. So far 13 people have been confirmed dead, among them, seven Britons. Almeria is part of the Andalusia region, and is popular with expats and holidaymakers. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) recently updated its advice for anyone travelling to Spain.

It said: “If you are in an area affected by the wildfire follow instructions from local authorities and emergency services at all times, avoid travelling into or through the affected area, and follow updates from the emergency services.”

People who were planning trips to Andalusia and other areas of Southern Europe suffering from wildfires and other extreme weather events may be wondering where this leaves them. Anna-Marie Duthie, an insight consultant at independent financial research company Defaqto, gave her thoughts.

Anna-Marie said: “If your airline cancels your flight due to wildfires, they should offer you the chance to rebook, or provide a full refund. If your holiday was booked as a package, this refund should cover all elements — flights, accommodation and transfers.

“But if you’ve booked everything separately, you’ll need to deal with each provider independently. Your airline may refund your flight, but your accommodation provider may not if the property is unaffected. This is why it’s essential to speak directly with providers in the first instance and check with your insurance provider regarding the cover they include.”

Travellers should regularly check the FCDO website to see tailored advice for their destination and ensure no travel warnings are in place. Anna-Marie said: “If government advice changes, advising against travel to the area after you have booked your trip, then you may be covered for cancellation or curtailment.

“You may also be covered for additional travel and accommodation costs should your trip be disrupted due to a catastrophic event, if your insurer offers this cover or you’ve paid to include it.”

Anna-Marie believes that extreme weather events could affect the travel insurance industry in future, saying: “Whilst it’s difficult to know exactly how travel insurance may change over the next decade, longer term there is a chance that we may end up seeing less insurable destinations and increased premiums. What we do know, however, is that travel insurers are used to having to adapt to an ever-changing world.”

But she added: “It is unlikely and we are yet to see any immediate changes to policies because of the current heatwave. It is unlikely insurance providers will change their policies in the near future to incorporate extreme heat. Current clauses may refer to ‘severe’ or ‘extreme’ weather, but the definitions for these can vary and currently no providers go as far as to specify criteria such as maximum temperatures.

“Where the heat causes events such as the current wildfires, this is a separate consideration and would be classed as a catastrophe or natural disaster. Cover for this will all depend on your insurer’s definitions and extent of benefits.”

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Jet2 has reminded passengers to bring their physical card on board to help keep its cashless onboard service running smoothly and efficiently

Jet2 has encouraged passengers to bring a simple everyday item on board to help minimise certain in-flight delays. The airline says having this item helps keep its onboard service running smoothly and efficiently.

In the “onboard service and conduct” section under payments, it states: “To make our service as efficient as possible, we only accept card payments.”

Urging travellers to bring a card with them, which may help any delays with orders, it adds: ” We’ve also introduced a few updates to contactless, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. So, please bring your physical card to use chip and PIN when needed.”

Can I smoke or drink alcohol on a Jet2 flight?

Passengers should also be aware that only alcohol purchased on board is permitted to be consumed during the flight. Smoking is strictly prohibited.

It warns: “In accordance with safety laws, smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited on all flights. Please note that only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks at our absolute discretion.”

Passengers could be kicked off Jet2 flight

Passengers are also reminded that disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated. The aircraft’s Captain has the authority to refuse boarding or take appropriate action against anyone considered disruptive, disorderly, or likely to pose a risk or cause unnecessary inconvenience to fellow passengers or crew.

It adds: “Anyone falling foul of this provision shall be liable to indemnify us in full against any liability or loss we may suffer as a result. In addition, they may be prevented from flying with us in the future.”

You can read about Jet 2’s Conduct on Board here.

The travel company was founded back in 2011 and operated three separate websites offering chalets, skiing breaks, and spa holidays. ATOL has now offered advice for any consumers who had breaks booked

A UK travel firm that offered a range of ski and spa holidays has ceased trading, with customers who have booked a package holiday being urged to take action.

Travel Bespoke Ltd was launched in 2011, and traded under three names: Chalet Bespoke, Ski Bespoke, and Spa Bespoke. The firm’s websites are now unavailable. The company was based in an office in Midhurst, West Sussex.

Ski Bespoke’s X page, which is currently still active, described the firm’s operations as offering bespoke ski trips to resorts in Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada and USA.

Financial protection scheme ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing), confirmed in a statement that the company had ceased trading as an ATOL holder as of May 29. It said: “We have contacted the affected ATOL protected consumers directly. If you have not been contacted and believe you are entitled to a claim against an ATOL protected booking, please supply your booking details with supporting documentation by email to claims@caa.co.uk.”

The time limit for making a claim to ATOL is May 28, 2027. Its statement went on to explain: “Bookings sold as accommodation only, non-flight Packages & Cruise Only bookings which do not include a flight element are not covered by the ATOL scheme. Please contact your travel insurance or card issuer for further assistance.”

ATOL also has a claims information page where customers can check whether the holiday they’ve booked would come under ATOL protection, or whether they’ll need to look for alternative ways to claim their money back.

Travel Bespoke is not the only travel firm to go bust in recent weeks. Long-running firm Groupia Ltd recently went into administration after 24 years in operation. The company who operated brands including Groupia Golf, GoHen, StagWeb, Groupia School Trips, and Company Away Day, served over 750,000 holidaymakers before going bust.

By law, any UK travel company that sells holidays or flights is required to have an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number, so always check your holiday is booked with a reputable firm.

This means that if the holiday firm you’ve booked with goes bust before you travel, you can apply to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for a full refund. If you’re already on holiday, the CAA has a responsibility to get you home.

However, you should also make sure you have travel insurance that covers a travel firm going into administration, as this can also cover additional expenses from having your holiday cancelled or being stuck abroad. Credit card protection can also be helpful in this situation. If you’ve paid for your holiday or flights on a credit card directly with the holiday company or airline, and spent over £100, you may be able to claim the money back through your credit card company.

Mastercard and Visa debit cards also have a chargeback scheme which is available for most UK high street banks. You can request your card provider reverses the transaction, giving you your money back.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Martin Lewis has shared his top holiday money saving tip, explaining whether you should pay in local currency or pounds on your card abroad – and how it could save you money on extra charges

Martin Lewis has finally settled the age-old holiday debate, revealing whether it’s better to pay in pounds or local currency when using your bank card overseas. Sharing his expert insight with BBC viewers, he cut through the confusion, offering clear guidance on the smartest way to spend abroad without losing out.

Martin advised: “When you go abroad and you pay on plastic [card] and the overseas cash machine or shop asks you: ‘Do you want to pay in Pounds or Euros?’ What do you do?

“Well, the correct answer is you should always pay in euros or whatever the local currency is. That means it’s your plastic that’s doing the exchange rate conversion, not the overseas shop or ATM.”

He stressed that this rule applies no matter where in the world you are. Social media users were quick to chip in with their own tips and experiences. One user suggested: “Just get Revolut or Monzo.”

Another declared: “I use Starling Bank it has no fees abroad and recommends paying in the local currency instead of Pounds. Something I saw online about dynamic exchange rate and it can cost you more otherwise.”

A third added: “Revolut has always been the best on doing this, can exchange right in the app as well, and when withdrawing it’ll just take it straight from that, half the time the only fee is the cash fee by the machine you use.”

Meanwhile, a recent holidaymaker shared their own experience: “Just back from Spain and not a single ATM did free cash withdrawals either, thankfully that’s all I was charged with my Chase account.”

One shrewd traveller commented: “I just get Euros before I go anywhere save all the hassle, and if I’m really stuck for cash go into an actual bank on holiday and withdraw money on my card.”

This handy tip comes on the heels of advice from a money-saving guru who stressed the importance of securing travel insurance ‘ASAB’.

During an appearance on This Morning, the financial whizz revealed: “My travel insurance rule is get it ASAB (as soon as you book). People do get a little confused about this, so let’s break it down.”

He continued to explain: “If you’re getting a single trip policy, so that is a policy to cover just one holiday, then what you do is as soon as you book, you go on one of the travel insurer’s website, you tell it your holiday dates and you buy the policy then.”

Martin Lewis made clear that if your holiday falls in August but you booked back in January, getting your insurance sorted in January is equally crucial.

“That means you have the travel insurance in place to covers that holiday,” he said, adding: “You don’t need to [cover yourself] for extra dates [in case there’s a delay at the airport] because you have your return date.

“If something delays you, so you weren’t back, that would still be covered because that delay is all part of the travel insurance.”

Jakob Davies, 25, suffered severe injuries after falling from a three-storey balcony during a stag do in Albufeira, Portugal, as his family launches a fundraiser to help him

The devastated family of a Brit who plunged from a three-storey balcony during a stag do in Portugal fear his travel insurance may not cover his mounting medical bills because he had been drinking.

Jakob Davies, 25, remains in hospital in Faro after suffering catastrophic injuries in a fall at a hotel in Albufeira earlier this month. His loved ones say they are still waiting to hear whether his insurer will pay out after tests showed alcohol in his system.

The factory worker, who is from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, had travelled to the Portuguese party hotspot with around 30 work colleagues for a stag weekend on June 4.

His mum, Claire Gerrard, fears the family could be left facing huge costs after doctors warned Jakob he may never walk again without urgent surgery.

The 51-year-old woman said: “He’s totally on his own. I need to know what’s going to happen to him. He was told if you don’t have this operation immediately then you won’t walk again.

“He does have travel insurance but because of the alcohol that he’s drunk it’s not looking like they will pay. We’ve contacted the insurance company and they wanted all the reports so I sent the reports.

“The doctor gave Jakob his alcohol levels with his bloods done and it did show alcohol in his system, which unfortunately they will not pay out.

“25 [years old] on a stag party he’s not going to have none is he? They’ve not said no yet, we’re still waiting on information. I think it should be made more clear to people, especially to youngsters. You’re going on holiday to a stag party and you can’t drink, they don’t listen, they just go and have a drink.”

Jakob had chosen to stay behind at the accommodation on June 5 to play football while the rest of the stag group headed out.

But when his friends returned later that day, they were alarmed to see fire engines, police cars and ambulances rushing towards their hotel.

Claire expained: “I think there were about 30 of them and it was somebody from work’s stag party. It’s all really, really vague, Jakob has no recollection of it whatsoever.

“He had been playing football with some other guys, his party were leaving and Jakob had said ‘I’m going to continue to play football’.

“I don’t even think he remembers playing football but that’s what he was doing. When the party was returning back to the hotel there were fire engines flying past and then the police came past and then the ambulances came past and had turned into their hotel so they thought ‘oh gosh something is going on’.

“When they got there Jacob was unconscious on the floor with severe head injuries and broken bones, it looked pretty horrific initially. When they got him in the ambulance, he had regained consciousness and he was speaking but he wasn’t aware of what had happened.”

Believed to have fallen from a three-storey balcony, Jakob was initially taken to a local hospital before being transferred to a larger hospital in Faro.

Doctors later discovered he had suffered a serious head injury, broken feet and ankles, as well as fractures to both his L1 and L4 vertebrae.

Recalling the moment she learned about the horror fall, the worried mum said: “I got a phone call at around 11am on Saturday morning [June 6] to say Jakob’s fallen from a three-storey balcony. My initial feelings from then on were absolute dread.”

As Jakob continues his recovery overseas, family and friends have launched a GoFundMe appeal to help cover medical expenses and the cost of bringing him back to the UK.

Travel insurance experts warn that some policies contain exclusions relating to alcohol or drug use, although terms and conditions vary between providers. Holidaymakers are urged to check the small print of their policies before travelling, particularly if they are planning to drink while abroad.

To donate to the GoFundMe, click this link.

The flights are booked, your passport is valid, the bags are packed, and excitement is building, but there’s one crucial check you must do at the time of booking your holiday

An aviation expert has outlined how to best prepare for your next getaway abroad, and there’s one vital task you must do.

Going on holiday is always an exciting time, and even the booking process can spark a buzz. What hotel will you stay at? What activities will you do? And what will the weather be like? But amongst the planning, there’s a checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for any trip abroad.

Checking that your passport is valid before booking flights is vital, along with any documents or visas you might need when entering your chosen country. However, there’s one check that Brits could miss, and failing to obtain it could completely impact your holiday.

In crucial advice to Brits ahead of the summer holidays, travel expert and head of aviation at loveholidays, Gavin Brewer, said that booking travel insurance at the same time as your holiday “is one of the smartest moves you can make”.

While it’s vital to have in case anything happens while you are away, it also means you’re protected from the moment you hit confirm on your desired getaway.

Gavin explained: “That means if you need to cancel your holiday for unforeseen reasons, such as sickness or other medical circumstances, or even redundancy, you should get your money back from your insurer. Understanding your cover is just as important as picking your destination, because when the unexpected happens, the right policy can be the difference between jetting off with confidence and being left out of pocket.”

In further support for holidaymakers jetting abroad this summer, the travel expert advised booking a package holiday as it offers “more protection than booking flights and hotel separately”.

He commented: “Package holidays give built-in protection that you won’t get if you book your flights and hotels separately.

“In the rare event of disruption before you travel, such as a cancelled flight with no suitable alternative, you are fully protected under a set of consumer laws called the Package Travel Regulations. This entitles you to a full refund on your package holiday.”

Gavin added: “At Loveholidays, our holiday packages are also protected by the ‘gold standard’ ATOL scheme, so you can relax knowing your holiday is in safe hands from start to finish.”

And while it might be edging nearer to summer, it’s never too late to book that well-deserved break. If anything, it might just be the best time, as three European hotspots are cheaper than usual during the busy travel period.

Gavin revealed that Bulgaria, Montenegro, and Turkey have all seen substantial price cuts on seven-night packages during the summer. Bulgaria, with its golden beaches along the Black Sea and majestic mountain terrain, has dropped by an average of 60pp.

Montenegro, dubbed a ‘Balkan gem’ with dramatic mountain landscapes that meet the sea, has dropped in price by around £53pp. While Turkey, known for its striking architecture, culture, and colourful markets, has also seen a price cut of around £35pp.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Simple mistakes could not only invalidate travel insurance but also leave the medication ineffective or even ‘unsafe’

A warning has been issued to thousands of people who will be travelling abroad on weight loss treatments this summer as mistakes could mean they are not only ineffective but could be “unsafe” to use. Millions of people currently use the jabs to help weight loss but there are strict rules around their use.

A survey by ZAVA found an estimated 337,000 people will holiday on Mounjaro or Wegovy this summer however if it is not carried and stored correctly it can be left “ineffective”. Experts at the firm have now provided three tips for travelling with Mounjaro and Wegovy, alongside the most important things to know before heading off.

You could be invalidating your travel insurance

When taking out travel insurance, you often need to declare any pre-existing conditions during an online application or by calling your insurer directly. Failing to declare the use of weight loss treatment could render your policy invalid, leaving you unable to make a claim should something go wrong, which could result in a bill worth thousands of pounds.

You should also check import restrictions to any country you are travelling to and verify if the medication can be brought into the country and how much you’re allowed to carry for personal use. Make sure to also take evidence of your prescription with you, whether it be in paper or digital form, and that your treatment is in its original packaging.

Insurers like Admiral don’t typically cover GLP-1 injections bought from an unofficial programme, if a medical professional isn’t monitoring them or hasn’t been declared. It is strongly advisable to follow up with a direct call to your insurer to confirm everything is properly documented. When in doubt, contact your insurer and your GP before travelling.

Storing jabs in hold luggage could freeze your medication

Putting injection weight loss treatments in with checked luggage can be a huge risk. The compartments where checked baggage is stored undergo huge changes in temperature and pressure that may alter the effectiveness of, or even damage, your medication. It can get very cold and may freeze and unfreeze the liquid in the pen, making the injections unsafe to take. Make sure to take a carry-on bag with you to store your medication in.

Essential liquid medicines are allowed through security, even if they are over 100ml; security often advises keeping medicines separate in your bag where possible, informing the Security Officer and bringing supporting documentation if possible. After this step, make sure that your medication stays in its original packaging. If you have any specific queries about carry-on luggage and medication, contact your airline provider.

Not having access to a fridge could damage your medication

Both Mounjaro and Wegovy must be stored by following the guidelines outlined in the patient information leaflets. The medication may be kept in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C or stored at room temperature, provided it does not exceed 30°C, for a maximum of 28-30 days.

Any pens exposed to temperatures above 30°C, or left unrefrigerated for more than 28 days for Wegovy and 30 days for Mounjaro, should be discarded immediately, as it could be unsafe to take. Patients travelling with weight loss injections are advised to contact their accommodation in advance to confirm refrigerator access and to verify that the appliance maintains an appropriate temperature, as this can vary between units. As the jabs are administered once weekly, most patients will use each pen within the 30-day unrefrigerated window, unless travel is extended or a dose is missed.