10 Common Travel Insurance Mistakes That Could Invalidate Your Claim

Travel insurance is essential—but it's easier than you think to void your cover without realising. From declaring medical conditions to reporting theft, small oversights can lead to big problems. In this post, we’ll reveal the top 10 travel insurance mistakes that could cancel your claim—and how to avoid them.

Get a quick, easy travel insurance quote today.

Get a Quote

1. Buying Insurance Too Late

✅ Do:

• Buy your policy as soon as you book your trip.

• Choose a plan that includes cancellation cover.

❌ Don’t:

• Wait until the day you travel.

• Assume you’re covered if something happens before the policy starts.

2. Not Declaring Health Conditions

✅ Do:

• Tell your insurer about all recent or existing health issues.

• Update them if your health changes before travel. -

❌ Don’t:

• Leave out conditions—even if they seem minor.

• Assume they’ll never find out.

3. Not Having the Right Travel Documents

✅ Do:

• Check visa requirements for your destination.

• Make sure your passport is valid (6+ months left is a safe bet).

❌ Don’t:

• Leave documents to the last minute.

• Rely on your airline or tour operator to sort this for you.

4. Skipping Recommended Vaccinations

✅ Do:

• Look up travel vaccine advice on the NHS website or ask your GP.

• Get jabs in time for them to take effect before you leave.

❌ Don’t:

• Ignore recommended vaccines just because they're not mandatory.

• Assume your usual vaccinations cover everything.

5. Leaving Valuables Unattended

✅ Do:

• Keep important items with you or locked in a safe.

• Be extra careful at the airport, hotel, and in transit.

❌ Don’t:

• Leave phones, bags, or passports unattended—even for a moment.

• Store valuables in a vehicle, even if hidden.

6. Not Reporting Theft Promptly

✅ Do:

• Report stolen items to local police within 24 hours.

• Get a crime or loss reference number.

❌ Don’t:

• Wait until you get home to report the theft.

• Skip the police report and assume a photo or email is enough.

7. Forgetting to Keep Receipts

✅ Do:

• Keep receipts for any replacements or emergency costs.

• Take photos of them in case they get lost.

❌ Don’t:

• Assume bank statements will be accepted instead.

• Throw away paperwork too soon.

8. Doing Activities You’re Not Covered For

✅ Do:

• Check if your policy covers activities like skiing, diving, or jet-skiing.

• Add extra cover if needed.

❌ Don’t:

• Assume all sports or excursions are included.

• Forget to wear the required safety gear.

9. Risky or Illegal Behaviour

✅ Do:

• Drink responsibly and follow local laws.

• Use common sense when it comes to safety.

❌ Don’t:

• Engage in reckless behaviour or take unnecessary risks.

• Expect cover if alcohol or drugs contributed to your claim.

10. Working While Abroad Without the Right Cover

✅ Do:

• Get specialist insurance if you plan to work, even as a volunteer.

• Let your insurer know what kind of work you'll be doing.

❌ Don’t:

• Take on any paid or unpaid work without checking your policy.

• Assume remote or casual work is always fine.

The information contained within this webpage is for editorial purposes only, and not intended as financial advice.