For the thousands of football fans planning to travel to Moscow for the Chelsea, Manchester, Champions' League Final on 21st May, travel insurance is the last thing on their mind. But to avoid disappointment those hoping to attend the match need to check they not only have adequate insurance, but also the correct documentation to allow them to enter the country.

According to esure over 42,000 fans are planning to travel to Russia this month. But it claims 15% of football tourists fail to check whether their passport is valid for travel and 26% do not know if they need a visa or specific documentation to enter their travel destination.  It says fans should be aware that they need to have their football ticket plus their migration card for both their outward and return flight home. These documents, along with a passport, act as a visa into the country and prove their reason for travel to Russia.  If any of these three items are lost, fans may have to pay for a visa to return home. This could cause delays to their return journey, which may not be covered by their travel insurance.

"Footballing fans may be so caught up in the excitement of the Champions League final that, in the sudden rush to book their flights and accommodation, they are overlooking the basics such as booking travel insurance and preparing the important documentation required,” comments Mike Pickard, Head of Travel Insurance at esure.  "Not only could fans be caught out by flying to Russia without the right documents to allow them entry into the country, but with so many people travelling on the same day, delays are highly likely.  It is vital to plan ahead and read the small print of travel insurance documents to make sure you're covered should anything unfortunate, such as a flight cancellation or baggage loss, occurs."

If you are hoping to attend the match esure says it is vital to ensure you and your family are covered for illness or injury as well as delay, loss of possessions and cancellation. Take insurance documents with you when you travel,as it is crucial to have telephone numbers and policy details to hand. It is also worth checking what your policy covers. If you are booking flights and already have annual travel insurance, make sure that attending any sporting activity is not excluded from your policy.

Above all esure says, planning ahead is vital. Check the British foreign and commonwealth office (www.fco.gov.uk) for any warnings about travelling to Moscow. Make sure that all vaccinations are up to date and find out about any other suggested medical advice by visiting your health-care provider.Football fans also need to be aware that drinking alcohol and smoking in Red Square is illegal and it is necessary to carry your passport at all times in Moscow in case you are stopped by the police and asked for ID. A photocopy is not sufficient. And be aware of pick pockets on the Metro and in hotspots such as the Red Square. It is best to leave valuables at your hotel.

For more information you can visit the UK government’s web page set up especially to provide advice and tips for football fans intending to head to the final - www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/ta-relevant-to-you/champions-league