Careless Brits' document risk
By Sebastian Lander, TravelMail
Need checking ... travel documents
Careless Brits are putting themselves at risk while abroad by not carrying up-to-date documents, according to research.
As many as 20 per cent of UK travellers were clueless as to when their passport expires, the survey by the Department of Health showed.
And 50 per cent were unaware that their European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) – the E111 form's replacement - have a shelf life, with three million of the cards due to expire between September 2008 and March 2009.
The EHIC – held by 28 million Brits - allows travellers reduced-cost or free healthcare in most European countries if they fall ill or have an accident while abroad.
But it is only valid if it is in date.
TV doctor Hilary Jones said: "I'm concerned that so many holidaymakers have no idea that their EHIC will expire.
"If you're travelling in Europe it's vital that you carry an EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance.
"If you become ill or get injured on holiday, the last thing you want to be thinking about is paying unnecessary medical bills, which could cost thousands."
The survey of 2,000 adults also revealed that as many as 15 per cent of men did not realise condoms expire and 20 per cent of women had no idea make-up has a use-by date.
The poll revealed that half the population are not even concerned about their healthcare while abroad even though 4 per cent had admitted to needing medical assistance overseas and not having adequate cover.
Many of those polled also revealed they fail to check expiry dates of such items as medicines and MOT tests.
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