Martin Lewis issues warning to Brits planning to book summer getaway - 'My heart sinks'

Martin Lewis has shared a word of warning to Brits booking a holiday to ensure they don’t make one small error as the peak holiday booking season begins.

The finance expert has issued several top travel tips in his most recent newsletter which includes how to avoid a “mistake” when booking.

According to the founder of Money Saving Expert, that error is sorting travel insurance closer to the time rather than while booking.

Lewis said: "Each spring without fail, someone asks me a heart-breaking question. Usually, they've been diagnosed with cancer or another serious condition that needs long-term treatment, and they won't be able to go on their summer holiday.

Martin Lewis has urged people to get travel insurance when booking a holiday
Kirsty O'Connor

"Yet the airline won't refund them - within its rights as the ticket is not faulty," he explained. "I say, 'that's what travel insurance is for'. Sometimes though, they tell me they haven't got round to getting it yet.

"My heart sinks as I have to tell them there's no recourse. Half the point of the cover is to protect you if things happen that stop you going, so get it ASAB - As Soon As you Book."

The money advisor went on to explain the cheapest options for travel insurance depending on the holiday plans.

Those planning on taking more than one holiday should opt for annual travel insurance which usually works out cheaper than booking separately even for just two trips, says Lewis.

Anyone taking just one trip away can shop around for the best deal.

Prices start at around £9 per week for one person travelling, with the cost depending on your age and where you're going – though prices can "rocket" if you are aged 66 or over or have a pre-existing medical condition, he warned.

Those who don't have travel insurance will not be able to get their flights refunded
Pixabay

Seasoned travellers can also check whether they can save money on travel insurance with a packaged bank account.

He said: "Used smartly, these can get you £100s of insurance at a fraction of the cost, beating standalone policies,” suggesting Nationwide's FlexPlus as MSE's "top pick" which also provides mobile phone insurance and breakdown cover.

As a final tip, Lewis urged holidaymakers to check they have a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or its replacement the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) card before they travel.