Why Travel Insurance is a Must-Have
Travel insurance is a vital component of any holiday, and it’s essential to get it sorted as soon as possible. According to Martin Lewis’ MoneySavingExpert, half of what you pay for travel insurance is for protection against unforeseen events, such as illness or trip cancellations. This highlights the importance of having travel insurance in place before embarking on your journey.
Consequences of Not Having Travel Insurance
One in five people who have booked their holidays still don’t have travel insurance. This can lead to costly mistakes, such as the reader who shared their experience of their parents waiting until the last minute to book, only to have their mum diagnosed with cancer and forced to cancel her trip. The family received only 10% of their money back, a stark reminder of the importance of having travel insurance in place.
- Delayed or cancelled flights
- Illness or injury while abroad
- Trip curtailment
- Baggage loss or theft
- Medical expenses
What to Look for in Travel Insurance
When searching for travel insurance, it’s essential to look for a policy that covers a range of risks. According to Tony Forchione, MSE’s senior insurance analyst, good travel insurance should cover:
- Cancellation because you can’t travel
- Covid-19
- Personal liability
- Sports, excursions, and other activities
- Cutting your trip short (curtailment)
- Baggage and personal belongings
- Medical expenses while abroad
It’s also crucial to check if the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions. Failing to disclose this information can lead to rejected claims, so it’s essential to inform your insurer ahead of your trip.
Don’t Let Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Hold You Back
Many people assume that having a pre-existing medical condition will make it difficult to find affordable travel insurance. However, the purpose of cover is to safeguard against the unexpected, such as illness, injury, or theft while abroad. Experts stress that declaring a condition is not daunting and is essential to avoid rejected claims.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | A chronic condition that requires regular medication and monitoring. |
| Heart conditions | Conditions that affect the heart’s ability to pump blood, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease. |
| Seizure disorders | Conditions that cause seizures, such as epilepsy. |
Conclusion
Travel insurance is a crucial step before embarking on your summer holiday. By getting it sorted as soon as possible, you can protect yourself against unforeseen events, such as illness, trip cancellations, or theft. Remember to check if your policy covers pre-existing medical conditions and inform your insurer ahead of your trip.
