FCO: Travel insurance key for stag and hen holidays
Those attending stag and hen parties abroad should make sure they keep out of trouble.
Travel insurance should be a key purchase for those heading on stag and hen holidays, it is claimed.
According to research from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), approximately one-in-six people will not take out cover, which could result in them being out of pocket in the event of a mishap.
Consular official in Spain, Maria Leng, says: “[We] regularly handle cases involving arrests, hospitalisation and lost and stolen passports.”
She explains it is important to remember that “a combination of sun and alcohol doesn’t always mix”, so tourists would be wise to take precautions.
Some of the situations Britons have found themselves in during a stag or hen weekend include being chained to a police car or being arrested in Poland for wearing a mankini.
Phil Lord from the FCO remarks: “Stag and hen dos are all about having a great time but the celebrations can come to an abrupt end if things go wrong.”
It is also important to be aware of the cultural differences in each destination, as haughty behaviour or risque fancy dress could be wrongly interpreted in certain countries.
A checklist has been produced by the body for those heading on stag and hen weekends and it advises doing plenty of preparations, rather than simply relying on the best man or bridesmaid for all the important matters.
Comprehensive travel insurance must also be purchased to cover any costs of mishaps, as the FCO states losing something like a suitcase or smartphone can be expensive to replace without a policy.
For those heading on celebratory weekends in the UK, insurance could be equally important in guarding against any financial loss and ensure travellers have peace of mind when enjoying their Easter break.