One-in-three Irish people have never had travel insurance.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) says those aged 18 to 44 are least likely to take out travel insurance.

It has released research examining Irish consumers' experience of the sector.

The results suggest that gender and age are important factors when it comes to purchasing travel insurance.

Women are more likely than men to purchase travel insurance - with 71% of the women surveyed having had a policy in the past, compared to 59% of men.

While 43% of consumers in the 18 to 44-year-old age group never had a travel insurance policy.

However, a majority (79%) of those aged over 45 have purchased insurance.

The research highlights although the cover and benefits of a travel insurance policy are important considerations, one-in-five consumers are not aware of the benefits of their policy.

And one-in-four consumers focus on price when choosing a travel insurance provider - while 35% use search engines to research their options.

One-fifth of those polled say the policy excess is a key factor in choosing their policy.

The excess is the first part of any insurance claim that a customer must pay in the event of a successful claim.

Áine Carroll, director of communications at the CCPC, says the office wants to debunk some myths around travel insurance.

"Our research shows that although the majority of people have had a positive experience with taking out, and sometimes claiming on travel insurance, one-third of consumers reported that they have never actually taken out a policy.

"Travel insurance can give you some protections if something goes wrong and can save you a lot of money in the long run."

The CCPC says while private health insurance offers some protection for healthcare costs, consumers should check their individual policies - as the levels of cover differ between insurance providers.

Its research also shows that one in ten of travellers felt they could make a claim, but did not do so as they felt it would be too much hassle.

However, the CCPC says 89% of those who did make a claim were successful.

It is also reminding people that trips which involve potentially unsafe activities may not be covered under a general policy.