British holidaymakers have been reminded that most credit cards do not give travel insurance protection by industry experts.

Apacs, the UK trade association for payments, explained that credit cards do protect UK purchases bought abroad because of a recently passed section in the law.

Mark Bowerman, spokesman for Apacs, said: “Section 75 covers everyone, by right, through the 1974 Consumer Credit Act but customers should not confuse this with travel insurance.”

He added that if the transaction is between £100 and £30,000 then it was beneficial to use a credit card because there would be extra protection that does not come with a debit card.

“ If you are concerned about travel insurance,” said Mr Bowerman, “then you need to seek advice from your insurance or credit card company.”

Some 19% of consumers who bought a last minute holiday last year did not have travel insurance according to Sainsbury Travel Insurance.