A travel insurance firm revealed that around one-third of all holidays booked by keen travellers in the UK are decided upon in a hurry.

According to the group, factors such as the recession and low prices are making holiday-goers less picky about where and when they go on vacation, not to mention which type of holiday they pick.

A study by the group found that men are most likely to consider and book a holiday within 24 hours, while women are more likely to ponder over the situation and consider their options for longer.

Sun seekers of retirement age are those most likely to take the greatest care over their holiday travel arrangements and book at least a month in advance.

However, Chris Young, the chief executive at the travel insurance firm, reminded travellers to check that all aspects of the trip are ideal for them, including the level of travel insurance needed.

“Holidaymakers are often tempted to just tick the ‘insurance' box on their holiday application form as part of the package. But it is important that they make sure they understand the cover they are buying and ensure they get the best option in terms of both cover and cost.

“But wherever you buy your insurance, it is vital to declare medical conditions; otherwise a claim might not be valid. Also, look for ‘kids go free' and family offers which will also help save money as well as giving families peace of mind,” he said.

Jim Grace, chief executive of an international travel insurance firm stated: “We see more people insuring trips of lower value because the risk tolerance has gone down. Look at the trip and your family makeup, and go to an expert to find out which policy matches. Don't just take the first one you see.”

Shop till you drop

Travel insurers have stated that the only real way to save money when booking a holiday is to shop around for the best deal.

Brits have been advised to not only research for the best holiday bargain or cheapest travel insurance price, but to also look for the cheapest flights, accommodation and car hire.

However, holidaymakers have been warned that the cheapest travel insurance cover may not always be the best or most practical; therefore it is vital that consumers ensure that the policy they purchase offers them satisfactory protection.

A yearly travel insurance policy is suggested for holiday-goers planning more than one trip over the course of 2009.

However, strapped-for-cash families or individuals who still want to go on a holiday, but can’t afford to venture abroad are opting for ‘staycations’.

A survey revealed that 32% of 3,000 people stated that they were planning to holiday in the UK, so therefore will not need their passports.

Paul Harvey, Travelodge property director, said: “It is also clear that people are looking to have an affordable break, cutting back on how much they are looking to spend when compared to the summer of 2008.”