Getting the best travel insurance Tips for making a successful travel insurance claim
Travel insurance claims for lost baggage are common
Tips for making travel insurance claims
Nobody wants to think that something might go wrong on their holiday, but unfortunately thousands of people experience problems abroad each year.
Having travel insurance in place before you set off is one way to minimise the stress and financial trouble that might arise if things go wrong for you – but following these tips should make matters even easier if you need to make a travel insurance claim.
- Take your travel insurance policy details with you. Make sure you have these, as well as any emergency phone numbers you might need. Most travel insurance companies require that you ring them before getting any medical treatment, and some may even refuse to pay out if you fail to do so.
- Always get and keep receipts for any items you may want to claim for later. For example, if you have to buy clothing because your baggage is lost, have to buy food and drink due to delays or have to pay for medical treatment and prescriptions, be sure you have proof of what you have spent so you can get your money back.
- Get written confirmation of delays to your flight. If your flight is delayed by 12 hours or more, it’s likely you will be able to claim for this on your travel insurance. However, you may need to prove to your insurer that the delay ocurred, and how long it lasted.
- Get a police report if you’re unfortunate enough to be the victim of crime while on holiday. Your insurer will want to see this if you’re claiming for stolen belongings.
What if my travel insurance claim is rejected?
If you make a travel insurance claim that is unsuccessful or not paid in full, don’t despair. Complain to your insurer in writing immediately and ask them to review your case.
If this doesn’t work and you feel you have been treated unfairly, you can complain for free to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). The Ombudsman can look into your case and has the power to force your insurance company to pay you compensation if the FOS finds in your favour.
What if my travel insurance company goes bust?
If your travel insurer goes under, you will be entitled to compensation from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, provided that your insurer is regulated by the Financial Services Authority (foreign-based insurers may not be FSA-regulated).
As of 1 January 2010, compensation for non-compulsory cover, such as travel insurance or private medical insurance, will be paid at 90%, with no upper limit.
- Speak to an expert about your travel insurance queries - call the Which? Money Helpline
- Had a problems making a claim? Have your say on Which? Conversation
- Make sure your holiday is protected with our expert guide
