Travel insurance - what you need to know
Last updated:
16/01/2012 15:20
Most travellers have trouble-free trips when going overseas. But sadly, sometimes things go wrong, and having a comprehensive travel insurance policy can be a great help if you are faced with a problem abroad and huge bills to follow.
Why do I need travel insurance?
These are just a few of the reasons why you cannot afford to travel abroad without cover.
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Cancellation cover
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Medical expenses and repatriation
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£407m – The amount travel insurers paid out to policyholders in 2009.
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Lost and stolen possessions including hand luggage, money, passports and other belongings.
Did you know? Britons spend more than double the cost of an average single trip travel insurance policy on magazines and sweets at the airport.
Aren’t all travel insurance policies the same?
Different travel insurance policies cover different things. This guide explains some of the common things that are often covered, and perhaps more importantly, some things which may not be covered. No insurance policy can cover absolutely everything that might happen during a trip, but policies try to provide cover for the most common problems.
You need to decide what is important to you and check if the policy you are considering provides the right level of cover for your circumstances. This will help to avoid any nasty surprises if you are unfortunate enough to have a claim.
Follow this link for more information about just some of the main things covered by a standard travel insurance policy and details of additional policy features that you may need (or see the whole document on the right-hand side of this page). Some policies have all of these features and more, while others may only offer a selection of benefits.
If you have any specific questions, or you are finding it difficult to obtain cover, please see the
Frequently asked questions section at the bottom of the document for assistance.
Top tips
1 The cheapest price may also mean the least amount of cover
That is why it is important to check a policy meets your needs before you buy it and consider whether additional cover might be necessary.
2 You must tell your insurer about your health history
If you declare your existing medical conditions your insurer will be able to confirm whether or not any claims relating to them can be covered. Cover may be free of charge or require payment of an additional premium. But if you do not tell your insurer about an existing condition they may not pay for medical treatment or the costs to get you home, and this will also invalidate your whole policy.
3 Act responsibly at all times
Going on holiday is the perfect time to relax and have fun, but you should never take unnecessary risks. Insurers do not cover drink or drug-related incidents and leaving possessions, particularly valuable items, unattended will invalidate a claim.