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Coronavirus: More than half of Brits won't insure their 'staycations' in 2020

Blackpool pier. (Luke Ellis-Craven/Unsplash)
Blackpool pier. Photo: Luke Ellis-Craven/Unsplash

With summer holidays back on the agenda following the easing of lockdown restrictions, many Brits will be planning UK “staycations” — but over half have never taken out travel insurance for domestic holidays, research has found.

Despite hundreds of thousands of travellers facing disruptions from cancelled travel plans as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, 56% of Brits told comparison site MoneySuperMarket they would not take out travel insurance for a British holiday.

Meanwhile, out of 6,000 respondents, around one in 10 (12%) said they would always take out a policy for a trip in the UK.

READ MORE: The best Airbnbs in Cornwall and Devon for your first post-lockdown staycation

“When planning a getaway in the UK, it’s easy to overlook the need for travel insurance – over half of those we’ve spoken to don’t get insurance, [but] not having appropriate cover can leave you exposed to the risk of losing money in the event of lost baggage, delays or cancellations to your trip, or damage to any valuables such as camping equipment,” said Helen Chambers, head of travel insurance at MoneySuperMarket.

“As the UK continues to navigate the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to have adequate policy coverage for any trip to make sure you are protected should government guidance change.

“Some policies may not cover changes to circumstances, so you should always check with your provider at the time of booking. This will give you the freedom to plan ahead and enjoy your trip without worry.”

READ MORE: Staycation boom to boost Plymouth while London will suffer

UK households are expected to spend almost £1,000 ($1248.40) each on local holiday breaks in 2020, with over a third of Brits keen to “holiday at home”.

Secluded destinations such as Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, Wales and Devon look set to be tourist hotspots, while old favourites London, Blackpool and Bournemouth will also remain popular.