UK holidaymakers heading abroad risk facing substantial medical costs because millions do not understand that failing to disclose their health conditions can void their travel insurance policy, according to a new study by AllClear Travel Insurance.
The research found that 40% of travellers with pre-existing conditions do not realise that not fully declaring their medical history invalidates their policy completely. Insurance bosses have described this as a "seismic knowledge gap" that puts travellers' financial security at risk.
Common Misconceptions About Coverage
Among those unaware of the rules, 55% wrongly assumed they could pay upfront and be refunded later, while 68% thought their insurer would still cover costs up to a set limit. Over a third (35%) believed there would be no consequences, and 25% thought an insurer would lend them money to repay later. Another 25% believed simply holding a policy document guaranteed a payout.
In reality, an invalid policy leaves holidaymakers paying thousands out of their own pockets for treatment, medication, or emergency flights home. In Spain, a simple emergency room visit with a CT scan and medication can cost uninsured travellers around €729 (£610), while an ambulance ride in the US can exceed $1,300 (£980).
Conditions Often Not Declared
Many travellers said they did not think common ailments needed to be declared, including depression or anxiety (18%), the flu (17%), IBS (14%), food allergies (13%), diabetes (12%), and asthma (11%). Another 12% did not mention STDs, while 11% did not disclose surgeries carried out over a year ago.
Worryingly, 54% of people with medical conditions said they would travel to European destinations such as Spain, Germany, or Italy without any cover, assuming they could return home quickly if needed.
Industry Call for Action
Garry Nelson, head of corporate affairs at AllClear Travel Insurance, said: "It remains deeply concerning that so many holidaymakers do not fully disclose their medical conditions, potentially putting their financial security and access to vital support at risk when they need it most." He added that the data shows "a range of factors at play and a seismic knowledge gap that needs to be tackled," noting the company has campaigned for several years to highlight the human cost of medical non-disclosure.
Nelson warned the blunders could have life-changing fallout, saying: "This may reflect a lack of understanding of the serious consequences of non-disclosure, reinforcing the need for greater awareness, clearer communication and stronger action across the industry."
