Read the small print before the big trip

Begin with what you need covered

List the countries, dates, travellers, and activities on your itinerary. Think about cancellation, interruption, medical treatment, evacuation, and baggage separately. A policy’s name is less useful than its actual wording, limits, conditions, and exclusions.

Ask specific questions

Confirm how the insurer treats pre-existing medical conditions, adventure activities, age limits, and any destination restrictions. Ask whether the policy requires disclosure, additional cover, or pre-authorisation. A hiking excursion, diving lesson, or safari transfer deserves a specific answer rather than an assumption.

Understand the practical details

Compare excesses or deductibles, limits per person, limits per item, and the evidence needed for a claim. Check the deadline for buying cancellation cover and when protection begins. If cover is offered through a credit card, read the current benefit document and confirm the payment and eligibility conditions.

Keep the contact details close

Save the assistance number, policy number, and a copy of the wording offline. Tell a trusted travel companion where to find them. For personal coverage decisions, ask a suitably qualified insurance professional. This checklist does not say that a particular claim or event will be covered.