Direct Line, a major British insurer, has revealed a way for travellers to save money just by checking their home insurance cover.

The insurer noted that many people going abroad have set aside a budget for duty free shopping. Thousands of people each year take advantage of the VAT free items, such as cigarettes, alcohol and perfume at airports and on ferries but can often end up paying twice to have them insured.

Noting that many people take out travel insurance, which also covers baggage loss but if your home insurance policy includes all possessions you could well already be covered for any losses of your new duty free bargains.

Chris Price, from Direct Line, issued a warning to travellers though, not to forget their travel insurance, which could be vital in case of an emergency while abroad.

"For those planning to go away this year there are savings to be made, ranging from the usual tax-free treats at the airport, through to early bird bookings,” he added.