Travel Insurance Policy Exclusions

In addition to the travel insurance exclusions relating to each section of the policy, all travel insurance cover will also have general exclusions relating to all sections of the policy. This is probably the best place to look if you are short on time and want a general overview of everything that your travel insurance will not cover.

Whilst some of the general exclusions, such as those for claims arising from ionising radiations or contamination by radioactivity seem a bit far fetched, other exclusions relating to your travel insurance are very important and require careful consideration. One exclusion which we expect to see changed in the future is that for claims arising from terrorism and it should be noted that claims arising from such circumstances are excluded although it has become common for some insurers, such as those used by World First, to take a more sympathetic stance in the event of terrorism and to look at each claim on it’s individual merit.

Other exclusions include claims arising from pregnancy, which can vary from insurer to insurer. It should be noted that World First covers claims arising from pregnancy under certain circumstances and up to 32 weeks.

Pre-existing medical conditions can be excluded within the general exclusions of a travel insurance policy so it is important that you read the policy carefully and ensure you comply with all health conditions attached to the travel insurance by declaring any medical conditions for which treatment or advice is being or has been received. The terms can vary between all travel insurance policies so do not expect to be covered by one travel insurer automatically if a different insurer has insured you in the past.

Virtually all travel insurance policies will exclude claims arising from psychological disorders, anxiety, stress and depression, self injury, suicide, manual work, anything requiring ropes such as mountaineering, races or duration tests, scuba diving beyond 30 metres and skiing against local authoritative warning.

A special mention should be made about that fact that most travel insurance policies also contain exclusions for claims arising from drink and non-prescribed drugs. Whilst travel insurance companies fully appreciate that you are on holiday and may well be having a few drinks, do not expect to be able to claim under your insurance if you are found to be drunk beyond what is considered acceptable.