Caravan Insurance

Older people taking a caravan trip abroad are often made to pay ridiculously high premiums on their travel insurance, according to a new study.

Between the ages of 65 and 66, travellers can expect to see the price of their premiums double or in some cases nearly treble, before facing another increase of up to 50 per cent when they enter their 70s.

Holidaymakers aged over 65 should therefore ensure, according to moneysupermarket.com, that their age, or any medical condition they may have, does not invalidate their existing travel insurance policy.

Director of insurance Richard Mason commented: "Most insurers have clearly hiked their price for those over 65, no-doubt hiding behind the nonsensical reasoning that risk of claims soars.

"It may well increase, but such a divide between the ages of 65 and 66 is laughable. Insurers should do more to provide reasonable rates for this growing market. Older people should not be penalised for going abroad and should be able to find affordable travel insurance."

Older travellers are also advised to check whether their insurance includes a cancellation policy and how much cover it provides on different claims, as well as whether their home contents insurance covers the belongings they take with them.

The ideal policy should provide up to £2 million on claims for medical expenses, £1 million for personal liability, £3,000 for cancellation and £1,500 for baggage, if necessary.