Figures show that, despite the serious risks involved, one in five Britons travel abroad with no travel insurance whatsoever.

According to the travel association ABTA, a significant number of holiday makers still travel uninsured. This risk taking may seem difficult to understand in light of the major travel disruption that has been caused by volcanic ash and political unrest in various countries.

It is being urged that the savings gained from skipping out on travel insurance is not worth the risk of being faced with crippling medical fees should something go wrong or the cost of replacing stolen items.

Many travellers are under the incorrect impression that the Foreign Office will foot the bill in the event of an emergency, and there is a growing concern that this belief is putting some off buying insurance.

The unfortunate truth is, if you fail to insure yourself and your family before you travel and someone falls ill or have possessions stolen- you could be on your own.

Furthermore, more than half of those who do travel with insurance are not sufficiently covered for cancellation charges due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness. This highlights the importance of reading the small print thoroughly before purchasing any policy to ensure you have the appropriate cover.

Experts are suggesting that the best policies should be tailored to where you are going and you?ll likely be doing while you?re there. For instance, if travelling to the US high medical coverage is essential as the bill could be astronomical otherwise.

Consumers are spoilt for choice when it comes to purchasing cover so there really is no excuse for not finding an affordable but comprehensive policy, according to travel experts.