Backpackers have a billion in their bags

It used to be that backpackers had little more than the clothing on their backs, their passport and a spare water bottle as they roamed the world looking for a cheap place to stay and an adventure to write home about. But research from AA Travel Insurance shows that today’s backpackers are hauling around £1 billion in valuables on their backs, and many are not adequately insured for what they are carrying.

According to the newest research, the average rucksack contains approximately £450 worth of goods, an indication of just how much people of today’s technological age rely on communication and entertainment gadgets.

Of all those surveyed by the travel insurance company, 75 per cent said that their mobile phone was their most essential item. Seventy per cent of the respondents said that they wouldn’t leave for the airport without their digital camera on hand.

Even with all the expensive gadgets, most backpackers are still on a budget and as such many neglect to purchase travel insurance before setting off, said Christian Young, the head of AA <Travel insurance

It's understandable that modern travellers want to be able to stay in touch and be able to record memories of the people and places they see he said. However, with all these technological treasures in their bags it has never been more important for backpackers to ensure they are fully insured so that they can explore with peace of mind.