The real holiday danger zones uncovered: Hotel receptions, bedrooms and bathrooms revealed as top accident hotspots

• Admiral Travel Insurance reveals where Brits are most likely to have a slip or trip while on holiday, with one quarter happening in and around hotels and accommodation
• Data based on over 2,000 claims caused by slips and trips on holiday shows the average cost of seemingly everyday incidents is £675
• Bedrooms revealed as the location with the highest value claims, averaging £942 – higher than accidents at the pool or on the beach
• With Spain being this summer’s most popular holiday spot, the country has been revealed as the most common destination to suffer injury due to slips or trips
• Almost a quarter (24%) of all medical claims exceeding £10,000 are caused by minor slips and trips while on holiday
• Admiral advises how to stay alert and prevent small slips ruining big plans

While many associate holiday accidents with vigorous activities or extreme sports, new data reveals the real danger zones are unassuming locations like hotel bedrooms, bathrooms and receptions.

Based on over 2,000 claims caused by slips and trips on holiday, the new data from Admiral Travel Insurance shows a quarter of these incidents happen in hotels and holiday accommodation, and on average, cost £675 - stretching up to a staggering £25,000.

Hotel bedrooms might seem like the perfect place to relax, but they top the list for the most expensive holiday slips and trips claims - £942 on average. Injuries from slips in bathrooms can also be expensive, at nearly £700 on average, while poolside trips can exceed £800.

Despite being this year’s favourite holiday destination, Spain is the most common place to suffer an injury abroad - with nearly a third of all slips and trips claims happening there. Admiral’s data highlights why travel insurance is important, as holidaymakers without it could face expensive bills for medical treatment: a broken wrist in Spain can cost nearly £17,000, and a fractured leg over £18,000 - injuries that can easily occur from a seemingly minor slip. 

Accidents outside of hotels are also common, with one in five (19%) happening in the street and one in six (16%) happening on steps – with slippery pavements, cobblestones and uneven surfaces often featuring in claims.

While many of the 2,000-plus accidents were caused by slippery floors and unfamiliar room layouts, unusual claims include revolving doors causing a sprained wrist, and a trip in the shower, shattering teeth on a nearby sink. Outside the hotel, claims include a trip on stage following a magic trick, and a flip-flop trapped in a tramline, leading to a broken wrist and ribs.

With minor slips and trips causing almost a quarter of all medical claims exceeding £10,000 between July 2024 and March 2025, Cosmin Sarbu, Travel Director at Admiral Travel Insurance, explains how Brits can protect themselves this summer:

“Whether it’s tripping over the foot of the bed or slipping on the shower floor, our data shows even the most minor slips and trips can cause serious injuries that not only disrupt holiday plans but cause ongoing issues - even after the plane has landed.

“The cost of treatment abroad can also leave you with an expensive medical bill running into the thousands. Fortunately, travel insurance can protect you and can help bring you home if your injury prevents you from continuing your holiday. It’s important to declare all pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s a good idea to check your cover before you travel to enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.”

Many accidents are unavoidable, but Admiral has shared advice on steps that may help to prevent some incidents:

• Keep your accommodation tidy - de-clutter any mess around your hotel room to avoid trips over your belongings
• Keep the bathroom safe - wipe up any water on the floor, and request anti-slip mats if possible
• Stay alert and avoid distractions - look out for uneven surfaces, slippery areas and debris on the ground, particularly in unfamiliar surroundings
• Wear the right shoes - tailor your footwear to where you’re walking, choosing a shoe with a good grip
• Listen to safety advice - follow any advice issued by tour guides or local governments
• Avoid activities when under the influence - steer clear of activities like swimming or cycling if you’ve been drinking alcohol
• Use handrails - make sure you use any handrails provided, and use hand wipes or sanitiser if they’re dirty
• Protect yourself with travel insurance - ensure that pre-existing medical conditions are declared and that your cover is correct for your travel plans. For more information, visit: https://www.admiral.com/resources/travel-hub/safety/preventing-common-holiday-accidents