Backpackers urged to insure billions of pounds of technology

Today's backpackers are filling their trusty rucksacks with a billion pounds of modern technology, the AA has stated.

According to the company, globetrotters and gap-year students carry valuables worth £1.7bn with them on their travels.

Each traveller is hauling baggage worth an average of £450, as modern gizmos are classed as necessities when exploring, particularly as Tom Griffiths, the founder of Gapyear.com, recently stated that wealthier career gappers are the fastest-growing travel market.

The AA revealed the top five essential items named by backpackers as mobile phones, digital cameras, MP3 players, laptops and hairdryers.

Head of AA Travel Insurance, Christian Young, urged travellers to ensure they are covered for the theft or loss of such technology, 'so that they can explore with peace of mind.'

Backpacking on a shoestring budget can also increase the risk of theft, he warned, but noted: 'It's understandable that modern travellers want to be able to stay in touch and be able to record memories of the people and places they see.'