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Backpackers on learning holidays 'must get adequate insurance'
03 March 2008
Backpackers heading off on a post-university adventure which involves learning a new skill are being warned that taking out travel insurance is "particularly important".
Thousands of youngsters head off on gap years of each year – many of which hope to learn a new skill abroad – including dangerous sports.
Student travel expert STA warns that those who are taking part in these activities must ensure they have adequate cover for a number of different reasons.
A spokeswoman for the firm said: "Learning holidays can range from learning Spanish in Ecuador, to kite surfing in Portugal and photography courses in Costa Rica. There are a number of reasons [why] insurance becomes particularly important when taking part in one of these holidays.
"The further you are away from home, or the more secluded your location, the more expensive it would be to repatriate the traveller back to the UK in the case of an accident or illness."
Figures show that older generations are increasingly heading off on long holidays, with 200,000 between the ages of 55 and 65 jetting off annually for a year-long break. 
