AXA - Be Life Confident

A new study from insurance provider AXA, revealed that in the past five years 1 million people claimed to have suffered from an accident or injury whilst on an activity holiday. This year over 200,000 UK tourists could suffer from an accident or injury whilst on an activity holiday.

The research reveals that men (33%) are more likely to go for this type of holiday than women (26%). Younger people are also more likely to be attracted to these sporty and action-packed breaks with 44% of 18 to 24 year olds planning to go on an activity holiday this year. Interestingly, one in five (19%) of the over 65s are also planning to go on sporty getaways.

When asked about injuries incurred whilst on activity holiday over the past five years, 124,605 people claimed that they were very seriously injured, 282,904 said that they were seriously injured and over well over half a million (605,141) were slightly injured. AXA has found that youngsters, in their pursuit of thrills and spills, are also the most likely to be injured whilst on holiday with nearly one in five (18%) 18 to 24 year olds who went on an activity holiday in the past five years sustaining some kind of injury.

Worryingly, AXA’s study revealed that a staggering two million (16%) of those planning to go on an adventure holiday in the next 12 months do not intend on taking out travel insurance and are leaving themselves at risk. It’s the thrill seeking men who are most likely not to take out insurance (20% compared to 12% of women).

Pat Brady, travel insurance manager, AXA Insurance said: “Many people are venturing away from the traditional package holiday by combining their vacation with new activities and sports. At AXA we are finding that many more people are choosing to build tailor-made holidays and plan adventure-orientated breaks but are not covering themselves against the added risks that come with them. It is our job to assess the associated risks – health and otherwise – in order to provide insurance cover that is completely adequate for the trip.

“I fear that people are leaving themselves vulnerable. Many people believe that nothing will happen to them and while this is the true in the majority of cases, for the sake of a few pounds to take out travel insurance, doesn’t it make sense to have peace of mind.”

Adventure and activity holiday tips from the Foreign Commonwealth Office:

1. Be sure to take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers you for dangerous sports and activities, medical and repatriation costs and any equipment you are taking. Think ahead about any unplanned holiday activities such as sports – it is best to covered for all situations.
2. Keep friends and family informed of your plans and travel itinerary, particularly if you are going to be uncontactable for a period of time. If you are taking part in an organised activity give them the contact details of the host company.
3. Consult your GP regarding any healthcare precautions and vaccinations you will require, at least six weeks prior to travel. Ensure you are in good health before participating in hazardous or strenuous activities. If you are on any special medication, ensure that you have a sufficient supply.
4. Make sure any specialist equipment for your trip can be carried by the airline.
5. Be sensible about alcohol consumption, particularly prior to physical activities. Accidents are more likely to occur if your inability and judgement are impaired. This can affect your insurance cover.
6. If you decide to undertake an activity with an organised group, you reduce the risk of things going wrong (although a risk still exists). Larger, well-operated companies are more likely to have stricter safety controls and contingencies for when problems occur. The greater risk lies in undertaking an activity alone or with inexperience people.