Experts are warning that many travel insurance policies will not provide adequate cover for major issues, such as if an event similar to the terrorist attacks in Tunisia occurred, or strikes in Greece prevented travelling from taking place.
These warnings are coming after the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) reported a rise in the number of complaints made by travellers who unsuccessfully tried to make a claim for compensation, after failing to pay enough attention to the details of their travel insurance policies.
Travel insurance issues were brought up to the FOS in the twelve months leading up to March 2015, by more than 2,000 people. However, only about half were resolved, meaning a large portion of complaints were unsuccessful. This indicates that a significant number of customers are having legitimate claims dismissed, potentially due to failing to read the small print.
“Cheaper policies don’t cover everything. Instead, get good, well-priced middle-of-the-road or above cover, and ensure you read it before you travel so you can cancel and re-buy if it’s not suitable,” said Bob Atkinson of TravelSupermarket.
It is recommended that anyone travelling to Greece has cover for civil unrest, curtailment and an abandonment of their trip, as well as supplier failure, due to the recent economic issues.
Caroline Lloyd, of GoCompare, said: “Ensure that you buy cover as soon as you buy a holiday, and keep abreast of advice given by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office about whether it is safe to travel to your chosen destination.”