How do I claim on my travel insurance?

Familiarise yourself with your policy details to understand what is and isn't covered. You can find your policy documents online or you may have been sent a paper version. If you’re not sure, contact your insurer to check with them.

This might be limits on the amount of money you can claim, activities which aren’t included or even areas of the world where you can’t make a claim.

Reach out to your insurer at the first sign of trouble. You should be able to find their contact details online or on any emails or letters you’ve had from them.

Keep note of any conversations you have with anyone involved in the claim, including dates, times, and names.

Save all receipts and document expenses related to your claim. Keep all correspondence and notes involved with the claim somewhere safe.

Before you even set foot out the door, take preventive steps to support potential future claims:

• Photograph Your Valuables: Snap pictures of your belongings, especially expensive items, and email them to yourself

• Backup Receipts: Keep photocopies of receipts for any valuables you're bringing along

• Duplicate Important Documents: Make copies of your insurance policy, identification, and travel itinerary. Keep a set with you and leave another with a trusted contact back home

• Keep your travel insurance policy and emergency contact information accessible at all times

• Store digital copies of your travel documents in a secure, easily accessible location

• Notify your insurer immediately when an incident occurs

• Report thefts to the local police within 24 hours and obtain a report for your records

• Collect any evidence that can substantiate your claim, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements

• Always provide accurate information to avoid compromising your claim

Lost baggage claims are usually the responsibility of the travel company, such as an airline or train provider. If they fall short, you might be able to claim on your travel insurance. For theft, particularly of gadgets, notify both the police and your insurer within the stipulated timeframe.

Contact your insurer as early as possible, especially before incurring any medical expenses. Keep a detailed record of treatments and associated costs for reimbursement.

Delayed or cancelled flights usually fall under the airline's jurisdiction for compensation, not your travel insurer's.

For cancellation claims, your policy will typically cover only specific unforeseen events that prevent you from traveling, such as illness or jury duty.

If you're engaging in high-risk activities, such as winter or water sports, make sure your policy includes special coverage for these pursuits. Most standard travel insurance policies won’t provide cover for them.