Travel insurance cover options
Travel insurance policies provide cover for a number of different risks, although cover does of course vary significantly not just between providers, but also between policies. As a consequence it's important to check exactly what level of cover you are getting from a policy before you buy. Always check cover limits and amounts, the excess (the sum you are required to contribute in the event of a claim) and the policy exclusions. All policies include cover for emergency medical expenses as standard, and depending on the policy this may include cover for dental treatment and repatriation. Other cover options include:
Provides cover for cancellation of the planned trip. As an example, covered reasons for cancellation may include: natural disasters; bereavement; jury service; and sickness or injury. Typical exclusions are: airlines or tour operators ceasing to trade; a change in your financial circumstances; a disinclination to travel; self-inflicted injuries; and contractual obligations.
Curtailment cover normally pays the additional costs that you may incur as a result of cutting a trip short, for example due to the illness or death of a close relative.
- Travel delay / delayed departure
Travel delay or delayed departure can be caused by many factors, including: bad weather; lost or stolen travel documents; breakdown or delay en route; and mechanical failure of an aircraft or ship. Policies usually have a maximum daily reimbursement amount and there's normally a minimum period of delay before a claim can be made - this is typically 12 hours but it can vary.
Missed departure can be caused by many of the same factors as travel delay however you will usually need to demonstrate that you did everything in your power to make the departure and you may be required to provide supporting evidence with your claim.
Some policies will cover abandonment of a trip where it becomes necessary for you to cancel the outward journey as a result of an extended delay (typically 12 - 24 hours). You will normally be required to have checked in by the recommended time and will need to provide a written statement from the appropriate transport company or authority confirming the reason for the delay and its duration.
- Personal belongings and baggage
Provides cover for loss and theft of your personal belongings and baggage - some policies may also include cover for damage and delay, too. All policies have a ‘single item’ claim limit (normally £100-£300) as well as a ‘total valuables’ limit, which includes items such as jewellery, watches, photographic and electronic equipment.
Cover for personal cash up to certain value (usually limited to £50 - £250 depending on the policy).
Provides cover for vital documents such as passports and travel tickets.
Provides cover up to a set limit if you are found to be legally liable for accidental injury to a third party or loss of, or damage to, their possessions. This cover is particularly useful if you are planning to hire equipment during your trip – but always check the small print for exclusions.
Cover up to a set limit towards legal costs incurred as a result of illness or injury caused to you by a third party during your trip.
In the next part of our guide we look at additional cover options, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) plus recommendations from the Foreign Office to help you get an adequate level of insurance for your needs.
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Additional travel insurance cover options »
