Top tips for when you are taking out travel insurance
Travel insurance is often left to the last minute when people are planning a getaway. But it’s vital to have appropriate cover in case anything goes wrong – particularly against the uncertain background of the pandemic.
Nearly one in four (23%) people say that not being sufficiently protected by travel insurance or not having the right kind of cover is one of their main concerns about travelling, according to research commissioned by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
The FCDO and the Association of British Insurers (ABI), offer these key tips to remember:
Check the limit for medical expenses: Find out what the exemptions are and what is covered. Medical emergencies can be very expensive. A moped accident in Greece, with surgery and repatriation to the UK could potentially cost £25,000.
Check Covid cover: If you have an existing policy, check what cover it provides for coronavirus-related events, including medical cover and travel disruption. Most policies have some Covid exclusions.
Drinking too much alcohol could impact a claim: Many travel insurance policies exclude cover for events after excessive alcohol consumption.
Cards won’t cut it: GHICs (global health insurance cards) and EHICs (European health insurance cards) are not a substitute for travel insurance. They will not cover private medical healthcare or costs.
Check advice before you go: Look at the FCDO travel advice for your destination before travelling. Travel guidance for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is also available on government websites.