Advice for backpackers as 1 in 3 experience crime or emergency

Holidaymakers getting ready to enjoy a gap year abroad need to do their research before they set off on their adventure, travel insurance providers have emphasised.

The Daily Mail reported that figures from insurers indicate up to one-third of backpackers are affected by poor health, traffic accidents or crime while away - incidents which could even cut a journey short.

But the director of gap year firm Projects Abroad suggested that young people should still be encouraged to go on gap years - as long as they make the necessary preparations beforehand.

"If you do the basic research, which does not take long, you increase your chances of finishing your project safe and sound by 300 per cent," Peter Slowe told the newspaper.

Healthy living website realbuzz.com named taking out a travel insurance policy as one of the top priorities for people on a backpacking trip.

The site claimed that those who risk travelling without adequate cover could face thousands of pounds in expenses if they experience medical problems while away from home.

Direct Travel Insurance offers tailor made gap year travel insurance for all your adventures.

Source: Direct Travel