The number of travel insurance enquiries is rising as the summer months approach and people start thinking about holidays, according to a new report.

A recent survey revealed that the number of consumers enquiring about insurance policies has risen 63% compared to the number asking at the same time last year.

Experts have suggested this could be due to the swine flu outbreak as holidaymakers fear they may be more likely to have to make a claim.

Steve Williams, head of travel insurance at the price comparison website, said: "It's clear that consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits and peace of mind travel insurance can bring."

The travel insurance industry has also recently seen a rise in the number of single trip policies purchased in place of annual cover as consumers try to cut back on costs to combat the effect of the recession.

This year 55% of travellers have opted for single trip cover compared with 45% who have chosen annual cover.