Travel Insurance
Most countries do not have free health care. In the case of illness or an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive. Travel insurance is a must for all travellers.
Do your research
Check inclusions and exclusions when comparing travel insurance companies and policies.
Read the small print to make sure a policy covers all your needs and activities.
You get what you pay for the cheapest quote might not be the best deal if you need to use your insurance.
Be honest about medical conditions Fully disclose current and past medical conditions, even if fully recovered, and medication for everyone on the policy. If you don’t it, it may invalidate the policy even if the event overseas is unrelated.
Activities
Many activities need extra cover so check each policy and consider what you are doing and whether you may need to pay extra. For example, boat travel, scuba diving, going to altitude, snowsports or other adventure sports often require extra cover.
Scuba diving You may need a diving medical for your travel insurance so don’t leave it until the last minute. Stay within the depth limits of your qualifications. Worth bearing in mind where your nearest recompression chamber is. Cave diving and wreck diving sometimes need a special mention.
Medical information
Expert input needed? Plan ahead. For certain medical conditions you may need to discuss your itinerary with your Medical Consultant and verify the suitability of your trip. The insurance policy may be void if against medical advice.
Fit to fly? Certain medical problems may mean that fitness to fly must be assessed well in advance of travel or booking a trip. It is unlikely your GP will training to be able to provide this opinion. You may need to contact a specialist.
Our Travel health consultants will go through your personal health and medical history and use this as basis for their advice to you. They may further information from your consultant or GP.
If you decline certain recommended medication or vaccines this might affect your insurance policy and travellers need to check this.
Travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Insurance companies expect you to take reasonable precautions as recommended by the FCDO. If you don’t your policy may be invalid. Unforeseen events such as a volcano erupting, or a military coup may mean advice can change at short notice. Check before you go.
What to take
Copy of your policy and other documents take hard copy, email yourself a digital copy and leave a copy with someone at home. Put the emergency travel insurance number to call in your phone.
Unless a true emergency - travel insurance companies often need to be contacted to authorise treatment of them to pay out later.
Information about medical conditions medications and health requirements.
Medication enough for the duration of the trip and extra in case of damage or loss. Carry in your hand luggage with your prescription. Research health facilities at your destination in case of emergencies.
European and Global Health Insurance cards For travel and temporary stays in European countries, UK residents can apply for European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) or Global Health insurance cards. This allows access to state provided emergency or necessary medical care in public hospitals. You may still be charged for medical treatment.
COVID- 19 is still an ongoing issue globally. Check what is covered by your insurance company – this includes cancellations, delays, extensions. Travellers need to carefully research up to date requirements from each country they are travelling to.
Reference and further information
The Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office provides guidance on travel insurance.