British travellers are being warned of a "false economy" that could leave them with a six-figure bill whilst on holiday.
Those who may be flying away for Easter are urged to take more care when buying travel insurance, as new data shows many are risking huge medical bills by not declaring pre-existing health conditions.
According to AllClear Travel Insurance, 63 per cent of people with medical conditions have knowingly withheld information — a move that could lead to rejected claims and serious financial consequences.
The report found that many travellers are choosing cheaper policies that offer less protection, particularly amid the ongoing cost-of-living pressures. But experts warn this is a "false economy" that could backfire badly.
Chris Rolland, CEO of AllClear Travel Insurance, said: "Very sadly, in the last year we have had to assess claims where customers have fallen ill on holiday only to discover that their travel insurance is invalid because they failed to declare known conditions when they bought the policy.
"The draw to save a few pounds on the price of a travel policy can be a disastrous false economy - and more needs to be done across the industry to help vulnerable customers that need the best possible cover."
A significant number of travellers are underestimating how expensive overseas treatment can be
PAA significant number of travellers — particularly those visiting long-haul destinations — are underestimating how expensive overseas treatment can be.
Despite this, 29 per cent of UK travellers heading to the US said they would still consider a lower-cost travel insurance option, even if it meant reduced cover or a greater risk of claims being denied.
Around one in seven people believed they could cover the medical costs abroad if they were to be hospitalised when, in truth, medical bills in places like the USA can easily run into six or seven figures - at least £100,000.
The research suggests there is a role for the industry to help bridge the knowledge gap. Nationally, 75 per cent of people think insurers could do more to encourage or remind people to disclose all necessary information when buying a travel policy.
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The research suggests there is a role for the industry to help bridge the knowledge gap
GETTYFrom clearer warnings on insurance websites, clearer reminders in renewal packs to public awareness campaigns, consumers want insurers to make the warnings clearer and louder.
In reality, many travel insurers do this; the implication from the research is it perhaps more needs to be done industry-wide. The report also highlights a lack of awareness about updating insurers when health circumstances change.
Many people fail to tell their provider if they’ve recently been diagnosed, started a new prescription, or undergone treatment between the time of purchase and their trip.
If someone's condition has changed since they bought their policy and they don’t inform their provider, they may no longer be covered.
It’s important to check travel advice for the destination you’re travelling toGOV.UK Travel AwareEven short-haul trips come with risks. The report found that more than half of those with health conditions chose to travel to nearby destinations like Spain or France without any cover at all.
As the Easter and summer holiday seasons approach, travellers are being urged to double-check their policies, update their medical information, and avoid shortcuts that could cost them dearly.
Travel insurance is there to protect people when things go wrong — but only if they play it straight.
A simple omission or lack of policy could leave someone unprotected and thousands out of pocket.
