Martin Lewis has issued a warning to million of Britons raveling to Europe this summer.

Over two million Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) are due to expire this year. The free cards, including its predecessor, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), give access to state-run hospitals or GPs, mainly in European countries for the same price as locals. Simply put, if they don’t pay, neither do you.

The Money Saving Expert founder warned those traveling to the EU, that one two million are due to expire this year, and travelers should make sure their card is in date.

If your card has expired, you will be able to get a new one, without charge.

Lewis warned: “When it comes to renewing, beware shyster sites trying to charge you for ‘fast tracks’ or other nonsense. Never pay to get a GHIC, they’re always free..

“These cards are useful to have alongside travel insurance, as often it can mean if you do get medical treatment, you don’t need to pay the excess.”

Holidaymakers are also urged to get their travel insurance as soon as they book their holiday abroad and not wait until the day before you travel.

Lewis warned: “Travel insurance is not just to cover while you are away,”

“It is also important to cover you if something stops before you go.

“Get it as soon as you book. If you don’t have it and it’s already booked, do it now.”

The Money Saving Expert says he has received numerous questions from consumers who have booked a holiday early in the year, only to be diagnosed with a serious medical condition that will stop them from traveling – and the holiday company won’t issue a refund.

He explains” “Unless the ticket is flexible, there are no refund rights as nothing is faulty with the holiday. “It’s a bit like trying to argue your new tennis racket is faulty because you broke your arm using it.”

He said he usually points people to their travel insurance, only for many to tell him they have not got insurance.

“That’s when it is painful, as then there is often little left to try,” he says.