A new survey by Post Office Travel Insurance shows that 27% of the 698 people aged 55 or over surveyed in September are more adventurous than when they were younger about where they go on holiday and what they do.

A further 60% want to ensure they are fit enough to enjoy an adventure holiday while more than a quarter said they had taken part in a number of activities including scuba diving, snowboarding and horse riding while on holiday.

A further 33% were planning on doing the activities on their next trip abroad.

Post Office Money Insurance managing director Rob Clarkson said: “It certainly does not seem that people’s holiday choices become more conservative as they get older.

“Our research suggests that 55 and overs are actually much more adventurous than might have been expected.

“In view of this they should be particularly careful to check that they are covered for all eventualities with comprehensive travel insurance because the cost of holiday mishaps is likely to be higher than for younger people.”