Am I actually covered by my travel insurance policy?
You Have Travel Insurance, But Are You Actually Covered?
When it comes to travel insurance, many of us think we’re covered for any mishaps that come our way. But, are you truly covered in all scenarios? 🤔
Here are some important things to check when you're considering your travel insurance policy:
1️⃣ Sports Coverage
Did you know that many travel insurance policies exclude certain sports or only cover them as an add-on? If you're planning on doing something more adventurous than a gentle walk on the beach, make sure to check if your policy covers activities like skiing, scuba diving, or even something as simple as hiking in risky terrain.
2️⃣ Alcohol and Excessive Drinking
Some policies completely exclude alcohol-related incidents—meaning if you’re involved in an accident after a few too many drinks, you may not be covered. On the flip side, certain policies may still cover you, but with limitations. If you're planning on enjoying the local nightlife, always review the fine print.
3️⃣ Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Have a pre-existing medical condition? It’s crucial to disclose this to your insurer. Some policies might exclude coverage for anything related to your condition. Others may cover it but require additional checks, such as access to your GP records. Insurers do this to assess the risks and ensure they’re fully aware of your health status before providing coverage.
4️⃣ The Cost of a Hospital Stay
Did you know the cost of a hospital stay abroad can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of pounds per day? For example, I know of a case where a patient in South East Asia was placed on life support, and the cost amounted to around £3,000 per day. The family was unable to afford the repatriation costs, which were estimated to be hundreds of thousands of pounds. Sadly, they found themselves in a difficult situation—unable to continue paying the hospital bills and without the means to bring their loved one home.
5️⃣ Medical Repatriation
One aspect that’s crucial, yet often overlooked, is medical repatriation. If you’re injured or become seriously ill while abroad, the cost of repatriation—getting you home to the UK for further treatment—can be staggering. Medical repatriation includes everything from arranging an air ambulance to cover the high costs of emergency transport, which can run into the hundreds of thousands of pounds. Without the right coverage, you could be left with a substantial financial burden at a time when you’re already facing significant health challenges. Ensure that your insurance includes emergency medical evacuation and covers all the logistics and costs for a safe return.
Before heading off on your next adventure, take a moment to read through your policy in detail. Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all, and knowing what’s included—especially around medical repatriation and high hospital costs—can save you from unexpected (and costly) surprises.
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