Parents urged to keep copy of children's gap year travel insurance

One in three gap year trips are cut short by an accident or crime, say organisers of the Gap Year Safety Conference. Though parents can no longer hold their children's hands when they leave home, making sure they have a copy of their travel insurance policy will make it easier for them to help out in an emergency.

Recent statistics show there has been a 10% increase in the numbers of people taking a 'year out' and more than a quarter of a million young Brits go travelling before or after university.

Safety campaigners say a third of these will be affected by crime, ill health, traffic accidents or some other emergency while away from home.

Many young people travel with gap year companies that organise everything from accommodation to transport to work projects; some travel with volunteer services overseas.

Parents can vet these companies to make sure their offspring are travelling with reputable firms and ensure they are aware of health and safety precautions. They should also take a photocopy of their passport and travel insurance documents for safe keeping.

Insurewithease offers specialist backpackers travel insurance valid for trips from 31 days to 12 months, and you don't have to be a student to qualify. The policy is valid for backpackers up to the age of 45. Cover for hazardous activities, such as bungee jumping, is also available.

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