Travellers warned over EHIC cards

British holidaymakers heading to destinations in Europe are being warned to ensure they have adequate travel insurance to cover their trip.

The calls come after it emerged that many tourists heading to countries such as Spain, are being caught out by thinking that a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) would cover them.

Figures from American Express show that in the last year 2.3 million Brits did not take out travel insurance as they believed the EHIC was enough.

But while an EHIC can entitle the holder to free or reduced cost healthcare, it will never cover holiday cancellation, curtailment or repatriation.

Chris Rolland, head of American Express insurance services, said: "With so many Brits planning a summer holiday in Europe this month, travellers should be careful not to rely on European Health Insurance Cards.

"They are not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance so you will not be covered for delays, loss of baggage or cancellations or experience other benefits of having an independent travel insurance policy."

Despite the strength of the Euro against the Pound, Spain remains one of the top travel destinations of choice among Britons.

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