Travel Insurance: Will It Actually Pay Out When You Need It?

Updated January 2026

'Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.'

― Ibn Battuta

Travel, full of all its unforgettable experiences. Exploring new cultures, sinking your toes into powdery-white beaches or going on a once-in-a-lifetime safari. But amid the excitement, it’s important to ask: what if something goes wrong? Can your travel insurance really have your back?

I like recommending products or experiences that align with the themes and values of this blog. So yes, there are affiliate links in this post. If you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Before your next adventure, get a quick travel insurance quote to make sure you’re fully covered from medical emergencies to lost luggage.

The Most Common Travel Insurance Claims

According to an August 2025 consumer research carried out by Which?, the Top 4 claimed for travel mishaps are:

• Medical expenses – 51.1%

• Trip cancellations – 27.8%

• Transport delays – 18.9%

• Luggage (loss, damage, theft) - 12%

  
  

Travel insurance is designed to help you recover financially from these unexpected events, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

So, What Should Your Travel Insurance Cover?

A reliable travel insurance policy should cover several key areas. Understanding these ensures you aren’t caught off guard if the unexpected occurs.

1. Medical Coverage

• Emergency medical expenses: This is for emergency medical. Covers the cost of treatment should you fall ill or get injured abroad. Make sure your policy limits are adequate, especially for high-cost destinations like the USA and the Caribbean.

• Medical evacuation: In severe cases, you may need transport to a hospital or to return to the UK. This can be extremely expensive if not covered.

  
  

2. Trip Cancellation and Interruption

• Trip cancellation: If illness, a family emergency, or natural disasters force you to cancel, your policy should reimburse non-refundable expenses. Check the cancellation limits carefully.

• Trip interruption: If your trip is cut short, coverage can help pay for unused portions of your trip and additional travel costs.

Example: You’ve booked a £5,000-per-person safari. On the way to the airport, a family emergency arises. If your policy only covers £3,000 per person, you could face a significant shortfall.

Avoid surprises. Get a travel insurance quote now to ensure your trip cancellation and interruption costs are fully covered.

3. Lost or Delayed Baggage

• Lost baggage: Reimburses your belongings if luggage is lost during transit.

• Baggage delay: Helps cover essential purchases while waiting for delayed bags.

Tip: Check your single-item limits and total baggage coverage to make sure your expensive items are fully protected.

4. Personal Liability and Theft

• Personal liability: Covers legal expenses if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.

• Theft: Ensure high-value items like laptops, jewellery, or cameras are covered. Declare items if necessary and confirm limits for single items and total possessions.

  
  

5. Checklist of Items to Cover

• Expensive electronics: laptops, tablets, smartphones, drones, cameras

• Jewellery and watches

• Sports equipment: golf clubs, skis, snowboards, scuba gear

• Designer clothing or accessories

• Prescription glasses and sunglasses

• Personal medical equipment: CPAP machines, insulin pumps

• Travel documents: passports, visas

  
  

Here is How to Ensure Your Travel Insurance is Reliable

1. Read the Fine Print

Insurance policies often include exclusions and limits. Pay attention to what isn’t covered, including pre-existing medical conditions, adventure sports or incidents while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

2. Check Coverage Limits

Ensure medical cover, trip cancellation and single-item limits are sufficient for your destination and the value of your belongings.

3. Understand the Claims Process

Know what documentation is needed and how to submit a claim. Keep insurer contact details handy for 24/7 emergency assistance.

4. Research Providers

Look for highly-rated providers, Defaqto 5-star policies, and strong reputations for claims handling. Reading other travellers’ experiences can give insight into reliability.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Not disclosing pre-existing medical conditions

• Assuming high-risk activities are automatically covered

• Ignoring single-item limits on valuable items

• Claiming amounts close to your excess (may not be worth it)

• Travelling without 24/7 emergency assistance

Ready to travel with confidence? Email me for your unique travel insurance quote today Ensure your next adventure is fully protected from the day you book until you return home.

Can You Rely on Your Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a lifeline when the unexpected happens but its reliability depends on choosing the right policy. By carefully evaluating coverage, reading the fine print and understanding the claims process, you can travel with confidence knowing you’re protected.

Preparation is key. Before your next adventure, review your policy and make sure it provides comprehensive protection from the day you book until you return home. Because if the worst happens, having the right travel insurance can make all the difference.