It might not be a fun gadget like a camera, a phone or a portable solar powered charger, but despite the fact that it normally just drains you of money and you never get anything back in return, travel insurance is really, really freakin’ essential travel kit.

You may have bought it 15 times before and not used it once, but that one time you do need it, you’ll thank yourself a million times for shelling out whatever lowly sum you paid for the cover. Make sure you get everything you need from your travel insurance – if you’re doing extreme sports, make sure it’s covered, and look into flight and hotel cover too.

Hit up Money Supermarket to find the best value, or if you really like Meerkats, maybe Compare the Market.