Record numbers to flee the UK this winter

A record number of 2.5 million British people are planning to leave the UK this Christmas, according to Halifax travel insurance.

Around 47 per cent of these holidaymakers are going abroad to visit friends or family, the study found.

Another 26 per cent are simply trying to escape the frantic nature of the UK at Christmas and 22 per cent are fleeing from the weather.

Halifax has urged these travellers to ensure that they are properly covered before they go on holiday, as it is estimated they will be taking £727 million worth of presents with them.

The provider states that the number of claims it receives increases significantly after Christmas, with the average personal baggage claim increasing by 48 per cent, from an average of £560 over the majority of the year to £830 in January.

Vicky Watson of Halifax travel insurance said: "Travellers should be warned that each January we see a substantial rise in claims for Christmas presents that have been lost, stolen or damaged abroad.

"Travellers must make sure that they have adequate travel insurance to cover replacement costs before travelling."