Taking out insurance before you travel is more essential than ever if you are on an adventure holiday or activity break.

The cost of replacing lost luggage or cancelling the trip pales into insignificance when compared with the medical or repatriation costs you might entail if you have an accident.

Check the small print to ensure you are covered for any hazardous, adventure and sporting activities. Check also that cover is adequate - in a ski-holiday policy, for example, is skiing off-piste covered, as well as other activities such as tobogganing? Does your annual multi-trip policy cover such activities?

What are the repatriation costs if you have an accident? Are you covered for liability if you cause an accident?

Shop around for the best policy, talk through your exact plans with the insurer, and do not be afraid to ask as many questions as necessary. The Association of British Insurers has published guidelines on aspects to consider.

Always leave a copy of the documentation at home with someone who can access it easily in case of emergency.

See table below for a list of possible insurers: