UK holidaymakers face significant medical expenses when travelling without insurance, with food poisoning alone potentially costing up to £5,000 per day in intensive care in Europe. Post Office claims data for 2025 reveals that 7,644 travellers sought emergency medical assistance while on holiday, with food poisoning, ear infections, accident injuries, and respiratory illnesses being the most common complaints.
Average Payouts and Worst-Case Scenarios
The average payout for emergency medical treatment per claim was £563 in 2025, according to Post Office data. However, the most expensive claim reached £92,552, highlighting the potential financial devastation of an uninsured medical emergency. Nearly a quarter of UK travellers go abroad without insurance, leaving them vulnerable to high costs for even minor issues.
Countries like the United States remain among the most expensive destinations to fall ill. In Monaco, a day of hospitalisation for an ear infection costs an average of £1,037. Stitches for a cut in Dubai can set a patient back £400.
Everyday Illnesses, Unexpected Costs
Food poisoning is one of the most common holiday illnesses, particularly in hot climates or when sampling unfamiliar cuisine. A single day in intensive care for food poisoning can cost up to £5,000 in Europe. A simple fall in France could lead to costs of up to £863 for rescue services and £182 for ambulance transport to a medical centre.
With over £7.4 million paid out in travel medical claims in 2025, Post Office data underscores the danger of travelling without cover. Adam Edinburgh, Head of Post Office Travel & New Products, said: “Travellers may assume the big-ticket emergencies are the only ones that cost. But everyday issues like sunstroke, dehydration or an ear infection can mean unexpectedly high medical bills overseas. In many destinations, even a short consultation or basic IV drip can cost several hundred pounds. Travel insurance makes sure holidaymakers aren’t left absorbing those costs at what is already a stressful time.”
Protecting Yourself Abroad
To avoid financial strain, travellers are urged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure. The Post Office advises checking policy details to ensure coverage for common illnesses and accidents, as well as pre-existing conditions. For more information on the world’s costliest destinations to fall ill and how to protect yourself, visit the Post Office travel insurance guide.
