Holiday makers hoping for an action-packed break are being warned to take out adequate insurance before travelling as one in five 18 to 24-year-olds have sustained some kind of injury while on an activity holiday, according to a new study.

A rise in the popularity of trekking, cycling and water sports holidays, means over 13 million people who opt for these activity trips are putting themselves at a greater risk of holiday-related injuries.

A study by insurance provider AXA showed 16 per cent of those planning to go on an adventure holiday in the next year do not intend on taking out travel insurance and it is more likely to be men (20 per cent) compared with 12 per cent of women who take the risk.

Younger people are not the only ones attracted to these types of action holidays as one in five (19 per cent) of the over 65s are also planning to go away on an activity break.

"Many people believe that nothing will happen to them and while this is the true in the majority of cases, for the sake of a few pounds to take out travel insurance, doesn't it make sense to have peace of mind," said Pat Brady, travel insurance manager at AXA Insurance.

Advice includes obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers dangerous sports and activities and any special equipment and also consult a GP before travelling.