Experts Reveal Six Surprising Ways You Could Invalidate Your Travel Insurance

From losing receipts to taking scooter rides, experts warn against unexpected things that can impact your travel insurance.

As holidaygoers plan winter sun getaways, many may be unaware that simple mistakes, like staying an extra day or hiring a scooter, could invalidate their travel insurance. 

A Forbes Advisor survey found that 77% of people in the UK have purchased travel insurance, but unless they’re reading the T&Cs closely, they could be unintentionally voiding their cover. To help travellers stay protected, Post Office experts have shared six potential pitfalls, and how to avoid them. 

1.     Not keeping receipts for purchases 

If you need to make a claim for lost or stolen items, you may be asked to provide proof of purchase. Without it, your claim could be reduced or denied. 

What to do: Keep digital or physical copies of receipts for any valuable items you’re taking on your trip, especially for electronics or high-value items. 

2.     Staying an extra day 

If you’ve booked single-trip insurance, travelling outside your stated dates, even by just one day, could invalidate your cover. 

What to do: If your travel dates change, always contact your insurer to update your policy. For those who travel frequently, an annual multi-trip (AMT) policy might offer better value but be aware that each trip still has a maximum duration. You may be able to extend the trip limit via an optional add-on for an additional premium.  

3.     Going on a scooter 

Hiring a scooter or motorbike abroad is a popular way to explore, but it’s also an area where travel insurance claims can be declined. Some policies don’t automatically include cover for riding motorbikes or scooters, especially if the rider doesn’t meet specific licensing or safety requirements. There can be also strict exclusions for certain types of vehicles, like quad bikes, e-scooters, and Segways, which are often not covered at all. 

What to do: Before you hire a scooter or motorbike, check your policy carefully. You’ll usually only be covered if: 

·       You have the correct licence (e.g. full UK licence or valid CBT)  

·       The engine is 125cc or less  

·       You follow local laws and ride on recognised roads 

If your plans include any of the excluded vehicles, like quad bikes, e-scooters, or Segways, be aware that these are not covered under most travel insurance policies. 

4.     Not completing your medical declaration properly 

Another reason travel insurance claims can be declined is because people don’t fully complete their medical declaration. It’s not just about prescribed medication; it includes any diagnosed conditions and ongoing symptoms. If you’re on a waiting list for treatment or tests, you may not be eligible for cover at all. 

What to do: Be honest and thorough when completing your medical declaration. Include any conditions, symptoms or treatments, even if you’re awaiting diagnosis or treatment. 

5.     Being intoxicated 

Travel insurance policies typically exclude cover for incidents that happen while you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If intoxication is found to have contributed to an accident, injury, or illness, your claim maybe declined. 

What to do: Know your policy limits and check the policy wording.  

6.     Leaving valuables unattended 

Leaving your phone, wallet, or other valuables unattended, even for a short time, can result in your travel insurance claim being declined. Insurers may consider this negligence, especially if the items weren’t stored securely. But even if theft occurs despite taking precautions, you must follow the correct steps to make a valid claim. 

What to do: Always keep valuables with you or store them securely, such as in a hotel safe. If something is lost or stolen, you must report it to the local police or your hotel within 48 hours and obtain a written report. Without this documentation, your claim may not be accepted. 

“Many people choose travel insurance without expecting to ever need it, which can mean picking the cheapest option or overlooking the small print.” Says Adam Edinburgh, Head of Post Office travel & new products. Before buying travel insurance, take a few minutes to list any planned activities and medical conditions, including medications. This helps ensure you’re properly covered. If you have a multi-trip policy, review it before each trip.

To find out more about travel insurance and what it covers, please visit: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/travel-insurance