More than 4.5 million travellers are estimated to have holidayed abroad last year without proper protection for their gadgets, all because of a simple insurance error, according to new research. Travellers are now being warned not to make the same mistake this year.

The study asked travellers whether they get gadget cover for their valuable tech when they go on holiday, and a staggering 82% admitted they don’t. When asked why, one-fifth said it was because they thought valuables would be protected under a regular travel insurance policy.

However, an expert from Go.Compare, which conducted the research, has explained that a travel insurance policy does not always cover valuable gadgets. Based on the number of people who went abroad last year, this means millions of holidaymakers might not have been protected should they have needed to claim for any damage, theft or loss.

According to the insurance comparison site’s research, a similar number of holidaymakers (around 5.1 million) admitted they didn’t get gadget cover because they didn’t realise it was an option. This means many might be leaving their valuables at risk without realising they could get extra protection.

And close to two in five travellers said they were happy to take the chance with their devices while away. This equates to around 9.2 million holidaymakers who would willingly risk their tech on a trip, despite the expense if they were lost or damaged  The figures are based on a combination of survey data and ONS numbers.

Other reasons that travellers chose not to get gadget cover included thinking it would be too expensive (13%), and because they would be covered by another provider, like their bank or credit card company (14%).

Rhys Jones, travel insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Regular travel insurance policies don’t always cover valuable gadgets against theft, loss or damage while you’re on holiday, particularly if you’re packing multiple gadgets or expensive items. Policies can have a limit on the number of gadgets they will cover, and a maximum amount you’d be able to claim for.

“That’s why it’s so important to check the details of your travel insurance policy if you’re planning to take several valuable gadgets with you – especially as some of the latest smartphones can cost in excess of £1,000 today. If you don’t think you’ll find enough protection from your travel insurance, it’s worth considering travel insurance with gadget cover included. This would give you more protection and increased single article limits.

“Travel insurance with gadget cover can cost as little as £13 for a trip to Europe, based on average prices. You can also buy a separate gadget policy, but you’d need to make sure it covers you to take your gadgets on holiday. Similarly, if you think your valuables might be protected under another policy or provider, be sure to check that this includes all your gadgets, and provides cover while you’re on holiday.”

Find more information about gadget cover and protecting your valuable tech while abroad on Go.Compare’s website.