Travel insurance is one of those things we either forget about or persuade ourselves we don’t need. The truth is, travel insurance is essential if you are going abroad. It can save you hundreds of thousands of pounds. Do you know how much emergency medical care is in your holiday destination?

The most expensive destinations

It will come as no surprise that the United States is the most expensive country in the world for medical care, according to hoppa research. Los Angeles is the most expensive city at a staggering £132,000 for emergency medical care. This care includes a short visit to a doctor and antibiotics.

In Europe, Zurich is the most expensive city at £123,000 – more than New York City! Zurich is also home to the most expensive taxi rides in the world. On average it will cost £19.39 per person (5km.) Make sure to compare and research the best deals on airport transfers to save money.

The most expensive illnesses and accidents

Of course medical costs vary according to the illness or accident you receive abroad. The most expensive illness is decompression sickness, says Bupa Global. Followed by ski and snowmobile accidents, heart attacks and cerebral haemorrhages.

The cheapest destinations

The cheapest city in the world for emergency medical care is Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia at £15.08. Closely followed by Kampala in Uganda, Cairo in Egypt and Mumbai in India.

How to get travel insurance 

If you are travelling in the EU, you can apply for an European Health Insurance Card for free. This card can help subsidise medical costs and save you a lot of money!

Insurance policies are easily customisable as well. They will vary according to what you are doing on holiday, for example if you are going skiing you will need winter sports cover. Don’t immediately go for the cheapest policy as it may have a lower excess value.

Similar to medical bills, travel insurance cost is dependent on where your trip is, the length of time you are there for and your personal circumstances, such as age and medical conditions.

Finder revealed that 21% of Brits travelled without travel insurance in 2017. Young adults (18-24) are most likely to travel uninsured while 55 and older individuals are more cautious.

In 2017, £385 million was paid by travel insurers. Just think about how many holidays you could have with that money? Invest in travel insurance to keep your back covered.

Travel insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. Do your research and choose a plan that covers everything you will be doing on holiday.