Holiday insurance
By Howard Moorby
Every responsible travel operator should offer insurance to a customer booking their holiday.
Insurance should not be viewed as yet another expense – it is essential for anyone planning a trip abroad.
Many people are already covered on existing policies such as house insurance but often they do not realise it.
Check the small print – you don’t have to sign up for holiday insurance at the exact time you book your holiday so take time to ensure you get the right cover.
If you are already insured, give the travel operator the details so they will be recorded on the booking form and follow you through to the resort.
Standard holiday insurance will cover many potential problems including lost luggage, airport delays and illness or accident requiring medical treatment.
Always make sure the company you have booked with is ABTA or ATOL registered so that you are protected if problems arise such as the operator going bust.
Top tips in the event of an accident:
Get immediate assistance.
The hotel should arrange any treatment required. Make sure the incident is logged by the hotel in writing.
Make sure your holiday rep is informed (they should have provided an emergency contact number) and that an investigation report is filled in.
As soon as possible, get the names and contact details of witnesses to your accident. Also ask if they have seen anyone else suffer a similar accident during their stay. Take photographs of the scene and injuries. Take measurements.
Even if you did not have insurance, all EU countries recognise a ??? (HM to check details) form so treatment would be paid for in any event.
If you are a victim of crime, report the matter to the police immediately and to your holiday rep. Your insurance company will need a crime reference number before processing a claim.
Lost luggage tips:
Ideally make a list or have a good idea of what is in your suitcase in case it is lost or stolen.
If you have to buy replacement items, don’t be extravagant and keep receipts to make a claim.
Don’t say your bag was full of designer clothes – you could get found out!
