Take the travel policy number and emergency help line number with you - you need to know who to phone in case of an emergency
Dangerous Sports - have you taken out this option? You may require specific cover for paragliding, jet-skiing, diving and so on. So many people don't think to include these in their insurance.
Don't leave valuables in the open, especially while on the beach. Check your policy wording - it may say you need to leave them in the hotel reception safe (a room safe may be insufficient for your insurers).
Ensure policy limits are adequate. Check how much cash you are covered for, baggage limits, etc. - are they sufficient?
Medical conditions - Make sure all medical conditions are advised to the insurer. If the insurer isn't aware of any circumstances which could give rise to a claim, you may not get your money back if you have a problem. Even if they occur between the day you took out the policy and the day you leave.
Use the pre-travel help line (if applicable) to check on inoculations, civil unrest and so on.
Leave enough time to travel to the airport. If you are late because you didn't leave enough time to get to there - you won't be able to claim.
Be aware of the dangers to small children that you may not be used to at home e.g. swimming pools.
If you buy Ray Bans, or Gucci sunglasses on holiday keep the receipt as you need to be able to substantiate your claim if they are stolen or lost.
If you are a victim of theft, report this as soon as possible to the local police, the hotel and the tour operator. Your insurance company may insist on a written report
Check that your motor breakdown covers Europe and not just the UK.
Additional cover. If you have an expensive item you want to take away with you - a special piece of jewellery, a digital camera or video recorder, say - ask whether you need to arrange additional cover.
Check your medical cover - some providers advertise 'unlimited medical cover' but this is a gimmick and you may end up paying more for it. The BIBA Protect Travel policy covers you for £5,000,000 - this is more than anyone is likely to need. The largest known medical claim ever was just under £1,000,000.
Check your excesses - some policies insist on an excess for each item lost - i.e.: passport, wallet, or luggage. Good policies, like the BIBA Protect Travel Policy, should only request 1 excess.

Broker Information Resource

If you can't find a broker in your area on the BIBA website, phone the Member Support Team on 020 7623 9043 or email enquiries@biba.org.uk

Related Info

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Pre-existing Conditions

Family Cover

Holiday Risks

What is Covered