LEEDS, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwire) -- 03/19/13 -- A recent poll has revealed that one in five UK travellers sets off for an overseas break without taking out travel insurance(1), potentially leaving themselves unprotected should they encounter problems whilst on holiday.

Although travel insurance may slip along the list of priorities in preparation for a romantic trip away, Asda Money reveals why putting appropriate cover in place could be essential for a happy holiday.

Protecting every step of your journey

Many travel insurance policies now go beyond simply covering medical expenses and hospital stays while you are spending time in your chosen destination.

Travel insurance cover can now extend to include payments for lost luggage and holiday curtailment amongst other features.

Securing the right policy for your needs

The type of travel insurance you will need will depend on factors such as the length of your stay, whether you are heading for a break within Europe or other parts of world, and the type of activities you plan to carry out on holiday.

Although travel insurance normally covers a pre-approved list of sporting activities, such as surfing, winter sports holidays may require may require a specialist policy.

In addition, if your Valentine's break has inspired you to take more holidays in 2013 and beyond, you may want to consider an annual travel insurance policy.

Ensuring full cover

Although 17% of UK holidaymakers felt that carrying a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when travelling within Europe removed the need for travel insurance, the EHIC does not provide cover for private medical care, repatriation or lost or stolen property.(1)

Travel insurance policies may also come with differing levels of cover, and it's important to understand the differences between basic and more enhanced levels of cover.

Similarly there normally are different types of cover on offer depending on the size of group, ranging from couples travel insurance to family travel insurance.

Notes to Editors

1.  ABTA research: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-15169969

About Asda Travel Insurance

--  Cover from GBP 4(i) 
--  Unlimited medical expenses 
--  20% online discount 
--  Kids and grandkids go free^ 
--  Single Trip or Annual Holiday Insurance 
--  A choice of 3 cover levels 
--  Worldwide or European Travel Insurance 

(i) All pricing examples based on travellers being 18-36 at the time of purchase with no medical conditions. Based on an individual Value European 2 day policy bought online. Price includes 20% online discount.

^ Terms and conditions apply. Children are covered when they travel with their parents, grandparents or legal guardians only.

Asda Money is a trading name of Asda Financial Services Limited. Asda Financial Services Ltd is an Introducer Appointed Representative of ACE European Group Ltd. This means that Asda Travel Insurance policies are sold, administered and underwritten by ACE European Group Ltd who is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA), reference number FRN 202803. Full details can be found on the FSA's Register by visiting www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do or by contacting the FSA on 0845 606 1234.