Three in four Brits are planning to book a holiday this year, but many will be unaware of a major pitfall that could risk their precious time off work.
Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance has revealed that over 4 million British passports are set to expire in 2025.
The insurer also revealed that failing to renew a passport had forced one in 10 Brits to miss a holiday.
Despite 72% of Brits planning to book a holiday in 2025, an estimated 10 million have expired passports, with an additional 4 million set to expire this year.
Co-op’s survey showed that the number of Brits missing a holiday due to failing to renew their passport in time increases to approximately 1 in 4 (23%) for those under the age of twenty-five, highlighting the importance of staying on top of these crucial travel documents.
It claimed many younger travellers were neglecting essential travel protections. The Co-op’s research also found that a quarter (25%) of 25 to 34-year-olds had gone on holiday without travel insurance, while three in 10 (28%) 16–24-year-olds have had a serious accident or illness abroad, compared to less than 1 in 10 (8%) of 55+ year-olds
Those who travel uninsured put themselves at great financial risk, as Co-op Insurance data reveals that the highest paid claim in 2024 was almost £21,000, an amount that would have had to be paid by the individual had they been uninsured.
Graham Ward Lush, head of Travel at Co-op Insurance at Co-op Insurance, said: “Keeping your passport up to date is a crucial step that many of us neglect, which could result in disappointment and financial loss should it mean that you are unable to travel abroad as planned.
“Some countries require at least three to six months of validity remaining on your passport before travelling, and it can take up to three weeks (or sometimes more) to renew UK passports, so it is always best not to leave it too late.
“Those travelling abroad should also seek sufficient insurance cover to have peace of mind that they are protected from incidents that may result in high medical expenses or loss of possessions.
“If you are unsure of your passport expiry date or the best insurance for you on your next trip, I advise you to look into your options without delay.”
