Almost 19 million Brits embrace the trend of international day trips

• Over a third (35%) of Brits have travelled – or plan to travel – to another country for the day
• Trend is most popular with Gen Z and Millennials
• Research comes as almost one in eight (13%) of those going on holiday this winter plan to visit a Christmas market – many of which are only a few hours away by plane or train
• Average day tripper expects to spend £1,453, yet over a quarter (29%) did not and would not take out travel insurance

Research by insurer Aviva indicates a trend for international day trips with over a third (35%) – equivalent to almost 19 million Brits – having either travelled or planning to travel to another country for the day.

One in four (24%) have already visited another country for the day with a further 12% planning to do so in the future. Younger generations are the most likely to make the most of day trips with over half (58%) of Gen Z (18–27-year-olds) having either already done so, or planning to in the future.

According to the research, the average traveller expects to spend £1,453 in total, from booking flights to making sure they have the right clothes for their day trip. Popular destinations to visit include France, Ireland and Spain, which often require travelling by plane or train and could explain some of the expected spend.

The warning to take out travel cover comes as research shows almost one in eight (13%) Brits going away this winter plan to visit a Christmas market – many of which are possible to visit for the day. Despite expecting to spend well over a thousand pounds, over a quarter (29%) did not and would not take out travel insurance for the day.

What are you covered for?

Travel insurance typically provides protection for cancelling or cutting short a trip for reasons out of the traveller’s control, such as being unable to travel due to illness. Due to the length of trip, it’s more likely that in this instance, a traveller would use travel insurance to claim back costs for cancellation in the event something prevented them from going on their trip. This can include things such as illness, a bereavement or even loss of employment.

Travel insurance can also provide cover for medical emergencies while away, which on average can be as much as £1,518 in France, £1,587 in Ireland, £2,748 in Spain, £3,797 in Belgium and £1,425 in Greece.

Although a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) will provide a level of protection, this will only cover medical emergency treatment within Europe. It won’t provide cover for things like arranging for family to be with you while you undergo treatment, or for any specific requirements you may need on your journey home – both of which can be covered by travel insurance. 

It’s important to note that trips within the UK won’t normally be covered by your travel insurance unless you have pre-booked accommodation for a two or more nights, so it’s important to check your policy cover.

From a possessions point of view, travel insurance can provide cover against things like theft. Depending on the policy, this can either be included as standard or purchased as an add-on usually known as ‘baggage cover’. This usually provides cover for loss, theft or accidental damage to baggage, personal belongings and valuables during the trip.

In some cases, home insurance policies also include personal belongings cover which may cover your personal possessions, anywhere in the world, so it’s worth checking to avoid any duplication of cover.

Carolyn Scott, Head of Home and Travel Underwriting at Aviva, commented: “Our research shows that holidaymakers could be making the most of Europe being on their doorstep, with two fifths (43%) choosing to go by ferry, train or car – arriving at their destination in a matter of hours.

“If you plan to go on a day trip abroad, it’s important to take out travel insurance and protect yourself and your belongings against the unpredictable – which could result in you having to cancel or postpone your plans. This could be anything from illness to being called onto jury service. It’s also important to check that you are covered for any activities you may have planned.

“In addition, while most trips will pass without incident, accidents or illnesses can happen at any time. Not only could this prevent you from going on your trip, but it could also leave you at risk of potentially paying thousands of pounds in medical costs overseas if you were to require treatment. By taking out travel cover as soon as you book, you’re protected from the get-go, giving you peace of mind in the lead up to and during your trip.”

Aviva’s top travel tips for day trips:

• Keep an eye on offers and don’t be afraid to be spontaneous – In the lead up to the festive period, keep an eye online for competitive last-minute deals from ferry and train operators. Being open with timings means you could still do your day trip as planned but at a fraction of the cost – and without flying. Just don’t forget to take out travel cover as soon as you book!
• Travel off peak or out of season – Lots of train operators will offer competitive prices if you travel out of season or as a group.
• Do your research – Ahead of travelling, it’s also worth seeing how much of the city you can explore on foot. Not only is this a great way to soak up the sights and atmosphere, it’s also a good way to keep costs down.
• Offset your carbon emissions – If you need to travel, consider offsetting your carbon footprint to balance out your trip.