An expert has issued an urgent passport warning as four million Brits could have the same problem, preventing them from travelling. Many could be unaware of this potential pitfall that could jeopardise their travels in 2025. According to new data, obtained by Co-op Insurance through a Freedom of Information request, more than four million UK passports are due to expire this year. The insurer also revealed that failing to renew a passport had forced one in 10 Brits to miss a holiday in the past.
Although 72 percent of Brits are planning to book a holiday in 2025, an estimated 10 million have expired passports - and four million more are about to expire. Graham Ward-Lush, head of travel at Co-op Insurance, warned: “Keeping your passport up to date is a crucial step that many of us neglect, which could result in disappointment and financial loss should it mean that you are unable to travel abroad as planned.
“Some countries require at least three to six months of validity remaining on your passport before travelling, and it can take up to three weeks (or sometimes more) to renew UK passports, so it is always best not to leave it too late.” A survey by Co-op, showed that the number of Brits missing a holiday due to failing to renew their passport in time is most prevalent in younger people. One in four people under the age of 25, said they had missed a holiday in the past as a result of an expired licence. This is in line with a trend of younger travellers neglecting essential travel protections.
As reported by Express.co.uk, the Co-op's research also found that a quarter of 25 to 34-year-olds had gone on holiday without travel insurance, while three in 10 people aged 16 to 24 have had a serious accident or illness abroad, compared to less than one in 10 of those aged 55 and over. Those who travel uninsured put themselves at great financial risk, as Co-op Insurance data reveals that the highest paid claim in 2024 was almost £21,000, an amount that would have had to be paid by the individual had they been uninsured.
Graham added: “Those travelling abroad should also seek sufficient insurance cover to have peace of mind that they are protected from incidents that may result in high medical expenses or loss of possessions. “If you are unsure of your passport expiry date or the best insurance for you on your next trip, I advise you to look into your options without delay.” Renewing your passport online costs £88.50, while a paper application costs £100. To find out more visit gov.uk/renew-adult-passport/renew.
