Everyone dreams of the perfect holiday – the magical blend of quality, cost, and unforgettable experiences, the kind you can casually boast about. But all it takes is one mishap by the pool or an unexpected reaction to new cuisine to turn those dreams into potential costly nightmares.
Medical bills can be daunting. A recent survey by AllClear Travel Insurance found that over one in two (54%) of Brits going on holiday in 2024 wanted to use it to de-stress, and 49% want to prioritise looking for the best deal.
While many may dream of being millionaires who can effortlessly handle unexpected expenses, could you afford a six-figure medical bill? A whopping two-thirds (66%) of people said they wouldn’t be able to cover medical costs in many top holiday destinations without travel insurance, showing just how important it is to stay protected with proper cover – especially if you don’t have cash to spare.
Digging into the data
Digging deeper, more than a quarter of Brits say they wouldn’t be able to afford bills in popular destinations like Canada (29%), Australia (28%), or Thailand (25%). Even closer to home, a fifth (21%) express concerns about affording medical care in Spain, and 18% feel the same about Portugal.
Real life examples
Indeed, check out these examples of real life customer medical emergency claims from last year:
| Country | Medical emergency | Claim value |
| Israel | Aspiration Pneumonia | £122,000 |
| Malaysia | Glioblastoma, seizures | £169,000 |
| United States | Stroke | £114,000 |
| Singapore | Stroke & Leg Amputation | £151,000 |
| Thailand | Pneumonia | £221,000 |
| Honduras | Acute pancreatitis | £100,000 |
Protect yourself today
Without the right travel insurance, you leave yourself unprotected. While keeping your adventures affordable is important, this goal can quickly fall apart if safety isn’t a priority. A comprehensive travel insurance policy your travels abroad remain enjoyable, safe in the knowledge that you have the right protection in place, no matter where your adventures take you.
