Travel expert Gavin Brewer, head of aviation at loveholidays, has issued critical advice for British holidaymakers planning a summer getaway: arrange travel insurance at the same time as booking your holiday. He describes this as "one of the smartest moves you can make," as it ensures coverage from the moment you confirm your booking, protecting against cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances such as sickness, medical issues, or redundancy.
Why Travel Insurance Matters from Day One
Brewer emphasizes that many travellers overlook the importance of having insurance in place immediately. "That means if you need to cancel your holiday for unforeseen reasons, such as sickness or other medical circumstances, or even redundancy, you should get your money back from your insurer," he explained. He added that understanding your cover is as crucial as choosing your destination: "Because when the unexpected happens, the right policy can be the difference between jetting off with confidence and being left out of pocket."
Package Holidays Offer Extra Protection
In addition to insurance, Brewer recommends booking a package holiday, as it provides "more protection than booking flights and hotel separately." Package holidays are covered under the Package Travel Regulations, which entitle travellers to a full refund if their flight is cancelled with no suitable alternative. Brewer noted that loveholidays' packages are also protected by the ATOL scheme, the "gold standard" for financial protection in the travel industry.
Affordable European Destinations for Summer 2026
Brewer also highlighted three European destinations that have become more affordable this summer. Bulgaria has seen an average price reduction of £60 per person on seven-night packages, offering stunning Black Sea beaches and mountain scenery. Montenegro, described as a "Balkan gem" with dramatic coastal and mountain landscapes, has dropped by approximately £53 per person. Turkey, known for its architecture, culture, and markets, has reduced by around £35 per person. These price drops make now an ideal time to book a summer getaway, according to Brewer.
