Travel insurance usually responds to a defined list of events: medical emergencies, cancellation for named reasons, baggage loss and delay. It does not cover every disappointment. Read the covered reasons and exclusions in your own policy before buying.
This guide belongs in our trust and enquiries topic. We explain wording here, not any single product.
What does a policy usually cover?
The table maps common problems to the part of a policy that may respond.
| Problem | Part of the policy | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Sudden illness or injury abroad | Medical expenses | Limit, hospital types, direct billing |
| You must cancel before travel | Cancellation | The list of covered reasons |
| Trip cut short | Curtailment | Covered reasons and proof needed |
| Flight or baggage delayed | Delay and baggage | Time thresholds and receipts |
| Lost bag, camera, rings | Baggage and valuables | Item limits and unattended rules |
Our guide on what is worth buying helps you choose which parts matter most.
What are the usual exclusions?
Policies differ, but exclusions include:
- A change of mind or a fear of travelling.
- Existing medical conditions not declared or not accepted.
- Some adventure activities, unless added.
- Injuries linked to alcohol or risky behaviour.
- Events already known before you bought the policy.
Read the exclusions page, not only the summary. Our note on adventure activities and insurance covers diving and similar cases.
Which six phrases do we search for?
Open the policy wording and look for these:
- “Covered reasons” under cancellation.
- “Pre-existing” or “existing medical condition”.
- “Excess” or “deductible”. See travel insurance excess explained.
- “Per item” or “single article limit”.
- “Evacuation” or “repatriation”.
- “Claims procedure” and the time limit to report.
If you cannot find one, ask the provider where it is in the document.
When does cover begin, and what do we need?
Cancellation cover may begin only from the date of purchase. Buy once you pay your first non-refundable amount.
Keep your itinerary, receipts and the policy number together. If you need to claim, proof of payment and a written report are normally needed.
What about remote island trips?
If your honeymoon includes a small island, ask whether evacuation by boat or air is covered, and who arranges it. We cover this in insurance for remote island honeymoons.
What should we do next?
- Write down the main risks on your trip: health, cancellation, valuables, activities.
- Compare two policies against the six phrases.
- Ask the provider about anything unclear, in writing.
- Buy once your first non-refundable payment is made, and save the policy offline.