Going away on holiday or for a short break?

No one wants the unexpected to happen when they go abroad, but unfortunately there's no such thing as a totally risk-free holiday. Last year there were more than 400,000 travel insurance claims by UK holiday-makers and business travellers, according to the Association of British Insurers.

Travel insurance is not so much an optional extra as an integral part of any holiday or short break. Our insurance policies cover the obvious problems, such as an accident or an illness, a stolen wallet or purse.

DaltonsHolidays.com also provides compensation for delays and cancellation, for damaged or lost luggage, and even a telephone help line for emergencies.

What type of cover is best?

The traditional way to buy travel insurance is to take out cover for each trip and this is how many tour operators sell their cover. If you only make one or two trips abroad a year, this might be the best option. A growing number of travellers are opting for the cost savings and convenience of annual travel insurance. DaltonsHolidays.com's annual insurance also covers you for 17 days ski and snowboarding insurance for free.