For most people, travel insurance isn’t something they think about until they need it, which can be too late. Before you buy travel insurance, it’s important to understand how to avoid a denied claim and what to do if your claim gets denied. A little bit of research now can save you from big headaches later! So use this list of top 10 ways to avoid a denied travel insurance claim as your go-to guide when choosing your provider and planning your next trip.
1) Double check your travel dates
– Double check your travel dates and make sure you’re covered for the entire time you’re away.
– Check the details of your policy and make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered.
– Make sure you have all the necessary documentation, including a letter from your doctor if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
– Declare any dangerous activities you plan on doing while on vacation, such as scuba diving or skiing.
2) Read your policy details
– Get travel insurance that covers you for the activities you’ll be doing on your trip.
– Don’t wait until the last minute to buy travel insurance.
– Make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered by your policy.
– Read the fine print of your policy and know the conditions under which you can make a claim.
– Keep all documentation and receipts related to your trip, including tickets, reservations, and medical records.
3) Check the cut-off time for pre-existing conditions
One of the most common reasons for denied travel insurance claims is due to pre-existing conditions. Most policies have a cut-off time for coverage, typically between 30 and 90 days before your trip. This means that if you develop a condition after this time frame, it likely won’t be covered. To avoid having your claim denied, be sure to check the cut-off time for your policy and plan accordingly.
4) Keep track of receipts
No one wants to think about the possibility of getting sick or injured while on vacation, but it’s important to be prepared. That’s where travel insurance comes in. But even if you’re the most careful traveler, there’s always a chance your claim could be denied.
5) Know what items are covered by travel insurance
Lying about activities or health conditions on your travel insurance application is one of the surest ways to have your claim denied. Insurance companies are in the business of assessing risk, and if you lie about your activities or health, you’re essentially telling them that you’re more of a risk than they thought. That’s not going to help your case when you need to make a claim.
6) Stay in an approved accommodation
– Do your research before you book your accommodation. Make sure the property is registered with the local authorities and has the necessary permits.
– Check reviews online before you book. Look for red flags that could indicate problems with the property or management.
– Get travel insurance that covers your accommodation expenses in case you have to cancel or evacuate due to an emergency.
– Follow the check-in and check-out procedures of your accommodation carefully. Missing a step could invalidate your insurance coverage.
7) Don’t lie about activities or health conditions
– Be truthful about your activities. If you’re an adventurous traveler, make sure you disclose all the activities you plan on doing. The last thing you want is to be denied a claim because you didn’t disclose that you would be skiing or rock climbing.
8) Speak with your doctor
– Schedule a visit with your doctor before you leave on your trip.
– Get any recommended or required vaccinations and boosters, and make sure you have an up-to-date list of all medications you’re taking.
– If you have a pre-existing medical condition, be sure to get a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and any medications you’ll need while on your trip.
– Make copies of all important documents, including your passport, driver’s license, health insurance card, and birth certificate.
– Keep these copies in a safe place, both at home and while you’re traveling.
9) Keep all medications up to date
When you’re packing for your trip, don’t forget to pack your prescription medications. Include a list of all medications you’re taking, both prescription and over-the-counter, and make sure they’re all up-to-date. Check with your doctor to see if you need any travel vaccinations, and get them before you go.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, be sure to disclose it when you’re buying travel insurance. Many policies have exclusions for pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to know what’s covered and what’s not.
10) Create a file with photos and receipts
When you’re preparing to travel, be sure to keep all important documents in a safe place. This includes your passport, tickets, itinerary, and travel insurance policy. In the event that something goes wrong while you’re away, these items will be essential in filing a claim with your insurer. To avoid any headaches, make copies of everything and keep them stored electronically or in a carry-on bag.