How do I claim on my travel insurance?
Travel insurance policies offer peace of mind in case your holiday doesn’t go to plan – and they can save you a lot of money if youo need to make a claim. Here we look at how the claim process works.
Key takeaways
Report incidents to your insurer as soon as possible. If something is stolen, report it to the local police within 24 hours and get a report.
Keep records of what has happened, including photos or videos and the contact details of anyone involved.
You’ll need to contact your insurer and initiate the claim process. Keep copies of your travel documents and insurance policy handy.
Your claim must be accurate and truthful as providing false information could jeopardise your claim.
How to make a successful travel insurance claim
No one goes on holiday thinking something might go wrong but unfortunately incidents can happen. If you need to make a travel insurance claim, start with the following key points:
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.
How to make a successful travel insurance claim
Know your coverage
Check for any exclusions that might affect your ability to claim
Initiate the claim process
Keep a log of all interactions
Document everything
Step-by-step guide on how to make a travel insurance claim
Claiming on your travel insurance requires attention to detail and prompt action. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is handled efficiently:
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
1. Pre-trip preparations
2. Secure your documents
3. Report incidents promptly
4. Gather supporting evidence
How long does a travel insurance claim take?
The time it takes to process a claim varies by insurer and situation. Acting swiftly and providing thorough documentation can help speed up the process.
Remember that there are coverage limits, and you'll be responsible for any costs that exceed your policy's maximum payout.
What are the different types of travel insurance claim?
Different situations call for different approaches when making a 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.
Types of travel insurance claims
Lost, stolen, or damaged belongings
Medical emergencies
Flight disruptions
Cancellations
Specialised activities
Dealing with claim rejections
Claims can be denied for various reasons, including failure to meet deadlines, inadequate coverage, or lack of necessary documentation.
If you feel your claim has been unjustly rejected, first you must make a complaint directly to your insurer. It then has eight weeks to get back to you.
If in this time it doesn’t reply, or you’re not happy with its response, you can escalate the complaint to the free Financial Ombudsman.
Our other useful guides
Finding the perfect travel insurance policy
The key to a stress-free claim experience is choosing the right policy from the start. With MoneySuperMarket, comparing travel insurance quotes is straightforward.
Input your travel details to receive a tailored list of options, ensuring you find a balance between cost and comprehensive coverage.
If you’re heading to a destination to which the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have advised against travelling, you won’t be covered by your insurer.
