Rugby fans 'still need travel insurance'

Sports fans jetting off to France to cheer on their team during the Rugby World Cup are being urged to ensure they have adequate travel insurance before they fly.

Thousands of rugby lovers are expected to leave the UK from one of the country's numerous airports this weekend but all the excitement can make some passengers forget to buy cover.

Halifax Travel Insurance claims that many people who are flying abroad for a short period of time do not bother with travel insurance as they are unconvinced that something will go wrong over such a short span of time.

But the firm warns that it is vital for all people heading of from hubs such as Heathrow Airport and Stanstead Airport to take precautions.

Senior manager of underwriting at the company Vicky Emmott said: "Excited rugby fans travelling to France this month will no doubt check double check and triple check their passports and match tickets before they go, but one thing that often gets overlooked is travel insurance."

Halifax warns that "many of the same risks still apply" even on short breaks and that those without travel insurance could end up paying more than they bargained for if they are injured or lose their luggage.