New Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance from the Passport Office reveals that over a million British passports are set to expire between 1st July and 31st December.
As Brits prepare to jet off on their summer holidays or plan for an autumn getaway, the member-owned business’ findings reveal that many are leaving it late to renew their passports, which could jeopardise their travel plans.
Many countries such as the US require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date in order to be eligible to travel there, whilst for travel to the EU Schengen Area, passports must be valid for at least three months after the day of departure.
Indeed, travel disruption due to expired passports appears to be a significant issue as research commissioned by Co-op Insurance shows that 1 in 10 (10%) adults in the UK have missed a holiday due to failing to renew their passport, including almost a quarter (23%) of those under 25.
If a passport doesn’t meet the entry requirements of the destination country, holidaymakers will ultimately be prevented from travelling. In this instance, travel insurance providers will be unable to cover missed flights or cancelled holidays, leaving a significant financial hole.
Additional Freedom of Information data obtained by the member-owned business also found that almost a quarter of a million passports were reported as either lost or stolen, last year. Meanwhile, the Passport Office revealed that the locations where passports were most frequently reported as being lost were Hong Kong and Spain.
Losing a passport can be a frustrating experience, especially given that replacing one costs £94.50, unless the £222 ‘fast-track replacement’ is opted for, and there’s no guarantee as to how long the replacement will take to arrive, which could impact travel plans. *
As well as passport problems, many Brits are also neglecting essential travel protections as research commissioned by Co-op Insurance revealed that nearly one in six (15%) admitted to always going on holiday without travel insurance.
With the average medical expenses claim being just over £2,500 so far in 2025, those without cover are putting themselves at significant financial risk. **
The member-owned business, is therefore, advising travellers to ensure that their travel documentation is up to date, and they have the right cover for their needs before heading off on their holidays, this summer.
Ellis German, Head of Travel Insurance said:
“Summer holidays are just around the corner but amidst the excitement, it’s important that you take the time to review your travel documentation and cover.
“Unfortunately, our research indicates that a significant number of Brits have had their holidays disrupted or cancelled due to failing to renew their passport before they travel.
“Concerningly, it seems many are also leaving it late to renew their passports this year, putting themselves at risk of being denied boarding.
“It’s therefore vital to ensure that your passport and travel documentation is valid for your travels. It’s also crucial that you have the right cover in place so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re fully protected while you’re away.”
Consumer champion Which?, have rated our Platinum and Gold cover for Annual multi-trip and Single trip travel insurance a Best Buy.
Co-op members save more with 5% off travel insurance. Find out more about Co-op travel insurance here: https://www.coop.co.uk/insurance/travel-insurance
