With news this week suggesting that up to a quarter of Brits are preparing to make trips abroad without travel insurance this summer, health provider BUPA has made clear the potential cost of such a move.

With the US being a perennially popular travel destination it is vital for anyone thinking of taking either a holiday or a business trip to take out travel insurance due to the ever increasing costs of private medical bills.

A BUPA spokesperson noted that medical costs in the US could well set you back £40,000 unless you have adequate cover.

“You wouldn't want to be travelling, for business or leisure and not have the relevant cover…You could be looking at a bill for £40,000 upwards for treatment and that's just the medical treatment, not getting you home either.” Said Natasha Heasman from BUPA.

“The important thing is getting you home and that is where travel cover comes into play.”