Travelling to new destinations is an exciting experience, offering opportunities to explore different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. However, unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or even natural disasters can turn the best laid plans upside down. This is where travel insurance plays a crucial role in protecting holidaymakers from unforeseen expenses and inconveniences.
Travel insurance – don’t leave home without it.
- Medical emergencies – Healthcare costs abroad can be expensive, particularly in countries where medical treatment is not as easily accessible as you’re used to. Travel insurance can ensure that medical expenses, hospital stays, extended hotel accommodation costs and emergency repatriation are covered.
- Trip cancellations and delays – Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances like illness, bereavement, or airline strikes can lead to trip cancellations or delays. A good travel insurance policy reimburses non-refundable costs, ensuring that travellers do not suffer financial loss should these unforeseen events occur.
Tip: The Civil Aviation Authority provides guidance on what travellers are entitled to in case of delays and cancelations.
- Lost, stolen, or damaged belongings – Luggage can be lost or stolen, and personal belongings such as passports or electronic devices can be damaged. Travel insurance can provide compensation to replace these essential items.
Tip: Pop an air tag tracker into your suitcase to track it’s location.
- Personal liability – In case of accidental damage to property or injury to another person while on holiday, travel insurance covers legal costs and compensation.
Note: If you plan on driving abroad (including hiring mopeds), that you will need additional vehicle insurance.
- Adventure and sports coverage – If you are engaging in activities like skiing, SCUBA diving, parasailing, or hiking, additional coverage can provide protection against accidents and injuries associated with such activities.
Note: Most travel insurance policies do not cover ‘extreme’ sports as standard, so check your policy carefully as you may need to pay an additional fee to include these.
Tip: It’s also worth checking your insurance policy guidance regarding the required time gap required between SCUBA diving and flying.
How to Compare Travel Insurance Providers
With numerous travel insurance providers available, choosing the right policy can be a little daunting. Here are some key factors to consider when comparing insurers:
- Coverage and exclusions – Ensure that the policy covers medical expenses, cancellations, baggage loss, and any specific activities you plan to engage in. Read the fine print to understand what is included and excluded.
- Policy excess and limits – Premiums may be reduced if you opt to pay an excess towards each claim, this means that if you have a £100 excess then you cannot claim for first £100 of costs.
Check the maximum payout limits for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost belongings. If you’ve just spent £2000 on a new laptop, but your policy has a maximum £1000 per item cover, you’ll only be able to claim half of the true value back if the item is lost or stolen.
- Pre-existing Medical Conditions – If you have a pre-existing condition, ensure that it is covered by the policy. Some insurers may require a medical assessment or charge higher premiums, but it’s always best to be fully transparent with the insurance provider. If you are unsure whether the insurance provider needs to know about a condition – tell them anyway; it’s better to pay an extra £20 insurance premium than find that your whole policy is void when you need it most.
- Single Trip vs. Annual Coverage – If you travel frequently, an annual multi-trip policy is often more cost-effective than purchasing separate policies for each trip.
Note: Most UK insurance policies require the trip to start from a UK destination. If you are planning a multi-stop holiday, check that this is covered within your policy.
- Cost vs. Value – While affordability is important, the cheapest policy may not always offer adequate coverage. Compare quotes from different providers to find a balance between cost and benefits.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK Travellers
For UK residents travelling to Europe, having a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is essential. These cards provide access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries at the same cost as local residents.
To apply for an EHIC/GHIC:
- Visit the official NHS website – Applications are free, and the process is straightforward.
- Provide personal information – Fill out the application with details such as name, date of birth, and National Insurance or NHS number.
- Receive the card by mail – Once approved, the card is sent via post and remains valid for up to five years.
While the EHIC/GHIC provides essential healthcare coverage, it does not replace travel insurance. It does not cover private medical treatment, repatriation costs, or non-medical incidents such as lost luggage or cancellations. Therefore, travel insurance remains a necessity even for travellers with an EHIC or GHIC.
Travel insurance is a fundamental component of any trip, offering financial security and peace of mind. By carefully comparing policies and understanding what is covered, holidaymakers can ensure they are adequately protected against unexpected disruptions. Additionally, UK travellers visiting Europe should apply for an EHIC/GHIC for supplementary healthcare coverage. Investing in a comprehensive travel insurance policy is the best way to enjoy a worry-free holiday and focus on making unforgettable memories.
PalmaCoco Travel 