Not declaring medical conditions on your travel insurance could cost you thousands

57% of Brits go on holiday without insurance, according to a new survey by Co-Op travel insurance.

If you don't take out an insurance policy, or invalidate your cover by not disclosing a pre-existing condition, you could face a hefty bill if you fall ill. 

Co-Op's data shows the average medical claim paid out last year was £1,200, with one case running to £66,000 for emergency treatment abroad.

Here, we explain how to approach getting travel insurance if you have a medical condition, and offer advice on the best time to buy a policy. 

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Do you have to declare your medications and conditions?

When filling out the forms for a policy, it's important to be upfront about your medical history.

This includes any conditions you've had in the past, anything you're currently being treated for, and anything you're waiting to be diagnosed. You should also list any medication you're taking.

Leaving something out could mean your insurer refuses to pay if you need to make a claim, even if the condition doesn't seem relevant to your trip.

Some insurers might let you exclude certain conditions from your cover. This can lower the cost of your policy, but you won’t be covered if those conditions cause any problems while you're away.

• Find out more: best travel insurance if you have a medical condition

What if your health changes after buying insurance?

Most policies include a rule called an 'ongoing duty of disclosure'. This means you're expected to let your insurer know if anything about your health changes before you travel, such as a new diagnosis, a change in medication, or being referred for tests.

The insurer will then review your policy. In some cases, your cover will stay the same. In others, it may adjust the price, change the terms, or decide it is no longer able to insure you.

If your cover is withdrawn, you should get a refund. You may also be able to claim for cancelling your trip.

If you don’t report a health change and need to make a claim, your insurer could refuse to pay. It’s always best to check your policy and contact your insurer if anything changes before you go.

• Find out more: best travel insurance

How far in advance should I arrange travel insurance?

It’s best to buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip.

Travel insurance can also protect you before you go, not just while you’re away. If you have to cancel your holiday because of illness or another emergency, you’ll only be covered if the policy was already active.

The price comparison website GoCompare found that 27% of people wait until the day they travel to buy cover.

Buying early doesn’t usually cost more, but it gives you better protection. As soon as your policy starts, so does your cancellation cover.

Where can I find travel insurance if I have a medical condition?

Some insurers are better than others when it comes to covering medical conditions. If you’ve struggled to find affordable cover, it’s worth checking providers that specialise in this area.

There are two directories that can help. One is run by MoneyHelper, the other by the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA). Both list insurers and brokers who have experience covering people with existing medical conditions.

You won’t always find these insurers on comparison sites, so it’s worth searching for them directly. If your condition is complex, consider calling the insurer for a clearer idea of what they can offer.

We’ve reviewed a range of specialist insurers and explained how to compare them based on your needs. Take a look at our full guide to travel insurance for medical conditions.

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