ADVICE

Almost three million people let their European Health Insurance Card run out last year – and almost nine million cards have expired since the end of 2014.

So with the holiday season looming, and if you’re due to travel in other European countries, check now if yours is still in date.

An EHIC – which is free to apply for – entitles you to free or discounted medical treatment at state-run hospitals and GPS in any European Union country, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Of course, some people may have chosen not to renew their EHICS immediately – for instance if they had no plans to go to Europe in the near future.

You can renew your EHIC for up to two years after it has expired, and otherwise apply for a new one.

But if in doubt it’s best to renew straight away, as it’s free, delivery can take seven to 10 days and you don’t want to risk forgetting.

Make sure your travel essentials are up to date