Most of us buy travel insurance for peace of mind when travelling abroad. We want to know that if something goes wrong, we have a safety net. When taking out travel insurance, it’s important to understand the instances where a claim may be rejected to avoid any issues further down the line when making a claim.

Here at Total Travel Protection, we want you to feel in safe hands. If you provide the correct details and follow a few simple steps, you can feel confident that your travel insurance will be there when you need it most.

Why are Travel Insurance Claims Rejected?

Understanding why a travel insurance claim is denied helps you avoid any issues when it comes to making a claim.

1. Non-Disclosure of Medical History

This is one of the most common reasons for insurance claim rejections. When taking our travel insurance, you must declare your full medical history. Even things that seem minor, like high blood pressure or a recent change in medication, are important. If you don't tell your insurer, they may refuse a claim related to that condition later.

2. Alcohol and Misadventure

Insurers expect you to take reasonable care of yourself. If you have an accident while under the influence of alcohol, it could invalidate your claim. This applies to medical or injury claims where alcohol was a factor.

3. FCDO Advice Ignored

Always check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website before you go. If you travel to a destination against FCDO advice, most insurers will automatically say no to any claim you make.

4. Unattended Possessions

Your policy usually won't cover items left unattended in a public place. For example, if your bag is stolen from the beach while you are swimming, you likely won't be covered. Keep your valuables with you or locked in a hotel safe.

5. Lack of Authorisation

In a medical emergency, you must call the 24/7 medical assistance line as soon as possible. They need to authorise treatment. If you agree to expensive care without speaking to them first, the insurer may not pay the full bill.

What is the Reasonable Care Clause?

You might see the term reasonable care in your policy. This basically means you shouldn't be negligent. An accident is something unexpected that happens despite you being careful. Negligence is when you take an unnecessary risk, like leaving your front door unlocked.

How to Avoid Your Travel Insurance Claim from Being Rejected

Follow these steps to give your claim the best chance of being accepted:

The 24-Hour Rule: If something is stolen, report it to the local police within 24 hours. You will need a crime reference number for your claim.
The Paperwork Trail: Keep every bit of paper. This includes taxi receipts to the hospital, medical reports, and receipts for emergency purchases.
The Pre-Trip Check: Double-check your policy dates. Make sure they cover your entire trip, including the day you land back home.
Expert Advice: Read our guide on tips for making a successful travel insurance claim for more help.

What to Do If Your Holiday Insurance Claim Is Rejected

If your claim is turned down, don't lose hope. Here is how to appeal a rejected insurance claim:

Ask for details: Request a formal written explanation for the rejection.
Check the wording: Look for any ambiguous wording in your policy that might support your case.
Complain: Follow your insurer's internal formal complaint process.
The Ombudsman: If you are still unhappy, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). This service is free and independent.

Get covered with Total Travel Protection

Getting your travel insurance right starts with being honest about your health. At Total Travel Protection, we are specialists in medical travel insurance. We cover all types of pre-existing conditions and have no upper age limit. We want to help you enjoy your holiday with the right cover in place.

How to Avoid Travel Insurance Claim Rejections