, and the ABI is encouraging holiday makers not to forget their ’Eight to embark’ to protect themselves and their loved ones when abroad.
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Travel Insurance claims Soar: £472 Million Paid Out in 2024 – Don’t Travel Without It!
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London, UK – New data from the Association of British Insurers (ABI) reveals the critical importance of travel insurance, with members paying out a staggering £472 million across over 500,000 claims in 2024 alone. As holidaymakers flock abroad this summer, the ABI is urging everyone to prioritize travel insurance as an essential part of their travel planning.
Medical Expenses: The Biggest Reason to Insure
The primary reason for travel insurance claims continues to be medical expenses incurred abroad. In 2024, medical claims accounted for 34% of all claims – a significant increase from 29% in 2023 - totaling £262 million. The average medical claim payout was £1,528, but costs can quickly escalate, especially with complex treatments and the need for repatriation to the UK. One ABI member even paid out over £1 million for a customer requiring emergency treatment and repatriation from the USA.
Fraser Lyall, Policy Adviser for General Insurance at the ABI, emphasizes: ”With summer at its peak, there’s no better time to prepare a packing list for your next getaway. While suncream and passports will certainly be necessary, travel insurance is one other essential that shouldn’t be overlooked. Travel insurance can offer you peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered for things like emergency medical care should you fall ill or suffer an injury abroad. Be sure to read the full terms and conditions and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to make sure you have the right cover for your needs, and speak to your insurer if anything is unclear.”
The ABI’s ‘Eight to Embark’ – Your Travel Insurance Checklist
To help holidaymakers stay protected, the ABI has outlined eight crucial steps to take before you travel:
- Buy Before You Fly: Purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. This ensures coverage for cancellations and other unforeseen events. Don’t wait until the last minute,as policies purchased after you’ve already departed may be invalid.
- Consider Your Needs, Not Just Price: Don’t automatically choose the cheapest policy. Ensure the insurance covers your specific activities. For example,adventure sports like sailing or scuba diving often require additional coverage.
- Double-Check Your Policy: Read the fine print! Understand the limits of your coverage and what is not included. Insurers expect you to take reasonable care to avoid unnecessary risks.
- Disclose Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: Honesty is crucial. Failing to declare pre-existing conditions can invalidate your policy. Include all medical conditions, medications, and treatments.check with your insurer if you’re unsure whether a condition needs to be disclosed.
- Know Before You Go: Check the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Growth office (FCDO) (https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) before you travel. Traveling against FCDO advice may invalidate your insurance.
- Understand Your Rights: If your trip is disrupted or cancelled,you may be entitled to compensation from the airline,accommodation provider,or credit card company. Travel insurance can cover additional costs and losses.
- Pack Your EHIC/GHIC (If Applicable): If traveling to Europe, bring your European Health insurance Card (EHIC) or global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
- Keep Policy Details Handy: Save your insurance policy number and emergency contact details where you can easily access it.
Don’t risk your health and finances on your next trip. Travel insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
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