Insurance mistake holidaymakers could make and only realise too late | Travel News | Travel
Not checking your fuse’s fine print is a mistake you don’t want to make (Image: Getty)
People heading to the airport soon are asked to do a quick check before they start their trip. With June and July marking the busiest holiday season, it’s best to get this done as soon as possible.
money experts Compare the Market We urge people to not only get travel insurance but also gadget insurance. But it’s not as simple as pressing ‘buy’. Comparison experts explain that many people assume that travel insurance automatically covers phones and other devices. In reality, this isn’t always the case, and a quick check can save travelers huge amounts of money – and if you’re traveling for the FIFA World Cup, this is timely advice!
It notes: “Not all travel insurance policies include gadget cover. And travel insurance payouts for valuables are often low – as little as £200 for a single item or £500 in total.”
It warns that standard travel insurance may not fully cover the cost of expensive devices such as smartphones or laptops if they are lost, stolen or damaged. It usually recommends separate gadget travel insurance, which can offer higher cover limits of between £1,000 and £3,000, depending on the policy.
What types of gadget travel insurance are available?
Options include:
Add gadget travel insurance to your standard policy for an additional fee
A dedicated device insurance policy – make sure it covers you abroad
Household contents insurance covering personal belongings abroad
Gadget travel insurance may cover:
Wearable devices such as fitness trackers
Bluetooth headsets and headphones
Accessories such as chargers
It is noted that your policy may only cover a limited number of devices and may also limit the total payment.
What coverage does device and mobile phone travel insurance provide?
Coverage varies between insurance providers, but a good policy usually includes:
Unauthorized use of web data
High single item limit (the most your policy will pay for an item)
What restrictions are there on gadget travel insurance?
You generally won’t be covered if:
Damage caused by wear and tear or misuse
Damage will not affect the operation of your device
You left your gadget unattended
You request more gadgets than your policy covers
You bought your gadget outside the UK
Your device is over (or under) a certain age limit
You have made the maximum number of claims under your policy
The fault lies with the manufacturer.
You were under the influence of alcohol or drugs when your device was lost or stolen
Don’t get the insurance…yet
Before purchasing gadget travel insurance, check whether you already have insurance under household contents insurance, mobile phone insurance or bank account package. It warns: “You should also check the excess. This is the amount you will have to pay for any claim. Some policies do not include ‘new versus old’ cover. Unless your device is brand new, your insurance provider may only offer a refurbished replacement of similar age.
“Always read your policy before purchasing covered travel insurance so you know exactly what is covered, along with excesses, limits and exclusions.”
Compare Market urges travelers to leave it at home
Experts advise travelers to think carefully about what devices they actually need to pack and whether they can get by without expensive devices for a short trip.
It is also recommended to back up phones and laptops to the cloud before traveling and continue saving photos during the trip. For safety, gadgets should be stored in hotel safes whenever possible, handled with caution in public places, and never left unattended in places such as the car or the beach; Insurance may not cover negligence.
I have a problem with my insurer, what can I do?
Money Saving Expert Experts (MSE) founded by Martin Lewis, recommends using a free reporting tool. He writes: “The insurance industry doesn’t have the best customer service reputation, and while a provider may be good for some, it can be hell for others.
“Common issues include claims not being paid on time or at all, unfair charges or exclusions hidden in the fine print. It’s always worth trying to call your provider first, but if not you can use the free complaints tool. analyzer.
“The tool helps you manage your complaint and if the company is not playing ball it also helps you escalate your complaint to the authorities free of charge Financial Ombudsman Service“
