Foreign Office issues travel warning to UK families

The UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an alert tor all families gearing up for trips abroad over the upcoming October half term. As the nation's authority on international affairs, the FCDO consistently updates UK citizens on travel matters.

On Wednesday, the Foreign Office warned all families to "make sure". A post 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 seek additional details on the Gov.uk website, where the FCDO further advises: "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 on the rise. One traveller visiting Thailand suffered a serious blood infection in 2022. They racked up medical bills of a staggering £250,000, which was paid by their travel insurance provider.

Another holidaymaker, who went to Spain, needed private medical treatment for a kidney infection - with medical bills totalling £15,000.