Check your travel insurance

North West Euro MP Brian Simpson has warned Easter holidaymakers to ensure they have adequate travel insurance before setting off. Mr Simpson, who is Chairman of the European Parliament's Transport and Tourism Committee, fears that travellers faced with the heavy costs of airline fuel surcharges, increased VAT and high Air Passenger Duty levels may choose to cut back on insurance in an attempt to save money.

Labour's Mr Simpson said, "Travelling without insurance can have a devastating effect. We need to take out proper travel insurance to cover things like lost baggage, as well as any hospital bills resulting from holiday injuries".

Every year holidaymakers find themselves faced with massive bills because the travel insurance they bought from the back of a brochure did not cover them for serious illnesses, accidents or the death of a loved one.

"Travel companies offer cheap and very basic insurance, which in many cases does not provide adequate cover. This is why my advice is to take out a private insurance policy with a reputable company and ensure that all disasters are covered. It could save a lot of heartache and even financial ruin should holidaymakers be in the unfortunate position of needing serious medical care or the repatriation of a body", added Mr Simpson.