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Do not run the risk of travelling without
insurance - it may cost you a lot more money and inconvenience in the long run.
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Arrange travel insurance as soon as
you book your trip, this will ensure that you are covered for
cancellation and curtailment.
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Always shop around. Buying travel
insurance direct from a specialist is usually better value than
going to a travel agent or bank etc.
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Does the insurance company have a
Claims Charter?
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Check the levels of excess on the
policy before your buy.
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It is important to be covered for
medical expenses, personal accident, personal liability,
cancellation and curtailment of the trip, money/documents and
baggage. Other areas of cover usually include delay, missed
departure, loss of passport, legal expenses and assistance
services.
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The E111 medical system is not a
substitute for a proper travel insurance policy. E111 can
provide free or reduced cost treatment in European Economic Area
countries (EEA). However, only state-provided treatment is
covered with this – and this may not cover all of the things
that you would expect to receive free of charge with the NHS. As
a result, travellers are often left with a large percentage of
their medical bill. A good Travel Insurance policy is
recommended to use alongside E111.
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Check your levels of cover and make
sure they suit your particular circumstances. Be wary of paying
excessive premiums for unnecessary cover.
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Always declare pre-existing medical
conditions and any hazardous activities/sports you may be
undertaking. Failure to do so could mean that you are not
covered if something goes wrong. This is important for any
holiday you may be going on, e.g. winter sports/summer holiday.
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Make sure your policy covers the
full length of your trip.
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Is cancellation cover enough to
cover the cost of your trip?
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If going on a winter sports
holiday, check that the policy covers off-piste skiing,
snowboarding, ski pack and ski equipment.
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If you go away three or more times
a year, look into the benefits offered by an annual multi trip
policy. It will probably work out cheaper than buying a number
of
single trip policies.
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If buying an annual policy, is the
maximum trip duration enough for your needs?
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Read the small print. Under the ABI
code of practice you are entitled to full refund within 14 days
of purchase if the terms and conditions do not suit your
requirements.
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Check that any expensive items you
are taking away (e.g. video camera, jewellery) are covered
either by your travel insurance or some other form of policy
e.g. home contents.
