Market surveys show that many people don't take out travel insurance. They believe that their credit card accident cover, home insurance, or private health cover is sufficient. However, it is unlikely that these will give adequate cover. If you make several trips each year, consider taking out annual multi-trip insurance to save time, money and effort.

You should be aware of what your policy covers and ensure that the cover is adequate. If in doubt ask your insurer. Your policy should cover you for the following:

* The whole time that you are away.
* Any activities and sports you might do.
* Medical and Health, including 24 hour emergency service and assistance.
* Personal Liability.
* Cancellation and Curtailment.
* Possessions.

Your policy may also cover:

* Personal Accident.
* You may also want to check if your policy covers you for legal expenses to help you pursue compensation or damages following personal injury whilst abroad. This could be of particularly use if there is no legal aid system in place in the country to which you are travelling.

Check the conditions and exclusions. If you are in any doubt, contact your insurer to find out exactly what cover you have.

* Most policies will not cover drink-related incidents.
* Most policies do not cover drug related incidents.
* You must take reasonable care of your possessions or your policy will not cover you.

Declare anything that you think might affect the such as current or past medical conditions.

When you travel.

* Make sure you take your policy and the 24 hour emergency phone number with you.
* Make sure you know what to do in the event of a problem.
* If anything does happen make sure you keep as much paperwork as possible - tickets, receipts, medical bills, police reports etc - to help prove that what you're claiming for actually happened.