The Top Travel Insurance Myths

There is a huge array of travel insurance policies available from many different providers, all offering varying types of cover. However, it’s important to separate fact from fiction, to make sure you’re fully covered when you’re travelling.

Here are some of the most common travel insurance myths to consider before purchasing your travel insurance.

Myth 1 – All travel insurance policies are the same

It’s easy to assume that you’re automatically covered for all possible mishaps, but unfortunately this isn’t always the case. Different policies offer different benefits, depending upon your requirements. For instance, factors like the type of holiday, the destination, and if you have any pre-existing medical conditions can all make a difference. So, make sure you read the small print to ensure you’re fully covered. Providers should give you access to the full policy wording before you purchase. These can often be very wordy documents, but remember – you are free to ask the company any hypothetical questions to check you’re protected for everything you need.

Myth 2 – My EHIC card will cover me for all European travel

While a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can provide you with free or reduced-cost medical healthcare across Europe, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, it isn’t an alternative to travel insurance. It doesn’t cover any private medical healthcare or costs, being flown back to the UK, or lost/stolen property. And neither will it cover delays, cancellations or 24-hour emergency assistance.

Myth 3 – If I don’t declare a pre-existing medical condition, my travel insurance will be cheaper

While it’s true that not declaring a pre-existing medical condition on your policy could save you a few pounds initially, it could cost you far more in the long run. Withholding details of your medical history may mean you are not fully covered and result in expensive medical bills. If you unfortunately need to cancel your trip due to your medical condition, you will not be reimbursed for your costs. If you mislead your insurer and fail to declare a pre-existing medical condition, it could lead to your travel insurance policy being void, leaving you with no cover whatsoever in some cases!

Myth 4 – I won’t qualify for travel insurance because of my age or health

Although some insurance providers may have an age limit or a huge range of excluded medical conditions, there are several specialist providers who don’t have restrictions due to age and can cover a wide range of pre-existing medical conditions. It is always worth shopping about to ensure you find the best company that can meet all your insurance requirements.

Myth 5 – Cheap travel insurance is the best option

Often, cheaper policies can seem attractive due to their low price tag. However, many of the cheapest policies don’t provide the amount of cover you might require in case of cancellation or lost luggage. They might also not give the level of specialist protection required for travellers with disabilities and pre-existing medical conditions.

It’s also important to check the level of excess you may need to pay before you commit as sometimes cheaper policies may include a higher excess. Paying that little bit more could save you several hundreds down the line, should you need to make a claim!

Most importantly, make sure to shop around and read the small print of each potential policy. Ensuring you’re fully covered now means you can fully relax and enjoy your trip knowing you’re well looked after.