Holidaymakers could face medical bills of up to £150,000 if they inadvertently invalidate their travel insurance, experts have warned. Securing travel insurance binds policyholders to a range of terms and conditions, and failing to adhere to them can leave individuals liable for emergency expenses abroad.
Government advice highlights that medical costs can escalate dramatically depending on the destination. For instance, a broken leg requiring hospital care in Spain may result in charges exceeding £25,000, while a quad bike accident in Greece requiring surgery could cost more than £80,000. In the USA, a stomach bug or infection requiring hospital treatment could lead to bills of over £150,000.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) advises travellers to shop around for a policy that suits their needs and not to automatically opt for the cheapest, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions. They recommend securing travel insurance as soon as the holiday is booked to cover potential losses such as cancellation fees due to illness. At the latest, insurance must be arranged before departing the UK, as many policies provide coverage from the start of the journey until return.
Travel insurance policies typically include exclusions that can invalidate coverage. According to GOV.UK, these can include engaging in certain activities without proper cover, failing to declare pre-existing medical conditions, or travelling against medical advice. Holidaymakers are urged to read their policy documents carefully to avoid unexpected financial burdens.
