Travel insurance is easy to buy and easy to misunderstand. The cheapest policy may exclude exactly what you need, so it pays to read the key sections before you travel.
What policies commonly cover
- Emergency medical costs abroad, including hospital treatment.
- Medical evacuation or repatriation if you need to be transported home.
- Trip cancellation or curtailment for listed reasons.
- Lost, stolen or delayed baggage and personal items, up to limits.
- Travel delays and missed connections, depending on the policy.
Common exclusions
- Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions.
- Adventure activities unless you add specific cover.
- Incidents involving alcohol or drugs.
- Travel to destinations your government advises against.
- Unattended belongings.
Declare your health honestly
Failing to declare a medical condition can invalidate a claim. If unsure, ask the insurer in writing.
How to compare policies
- Check medical cover limits and the excess (deductible).
- Confirm the listed cancellation reasons.
- Look at single-item limits if you carry valuable electronics.
- Read reviews about how the insurer handles claims.
Buy cover soon after booking so cancellation protection applies from the start.
