One in six Brits are ‘dishonest' when filling out their travel insurance forms, research reveals
The research, based on a survey of 2,000 adults across the UK, found many are cutting corners to save cash – with 25 per cent believing it's fine to leave out minor health conditions to get a cheaper deal.
Travel insurer Staysure, which commissioned the study, says this kind of dishonesty can have serious consequences, including claims being rejected or travellers being left with sky-high medical bills abroad.
A spokesperson from the company said: 'This survey paints a worrying picture.
'When buying a travel insurance policy, you want to know you'll be in safe hands if the worst should happen so be as honest and detailed as possible about your current health.
'Many people don't realise that their NHS medical records are checked when they make a medical claim to verify their policy against their current health.
'Meaning any undeclared medical conditions, or recent GP and hospital visits that are not covered on their policy could invalidate their cover – leaving them high and dry to foot a medical bill alone.'
Despite this, nearly one in four (23 per cent) felt it was fine to omit medical info if they only wanted basic cover for cancellations or lost luggage, while 18 per cent didn't think they needed to mention conditions managed with medication.
Worryingly, 14 per cent knew someone who had a claim rejected for not disclosing a health problem, and 70 per cent believed insurers were likely to find out if someone had been dishonest.
The survey also uncovered confusion over what should be declared – with 67 per cent unaware weight loss medication must be mentioned, and 75 per cent not realising HRT for menopause needs to be listed.
Almost a quarter (23 per cent) didn't think it was necessary to disclose high blood pressure or recent surgery, and 17 per cent believed they could skip declaring a past heart attack or serious organ issue.
One in six Brits are 'dishonest' when filling out their travel insurance forms, research reveals
Although most people (71 per cent) feared having a claim declined and 69 per cent were worried about facing medical bills abroad, a surprising 27 per cent admitted they don't always buy travel insurance.
Even among those who do, 22 per cent have travelled knowing they weren't fully covered.
Still, 81 per cent agreed the cover is worth the cost, with 26 per cent having claimed in the past.
The Staysure spokesperson added: 'Declaring all your medical conditions ensures you are financially protected if you need medical treatment abroad or repatriating home – last year the average cost of an air ambulance from Spain alone was £45,136.
'We urge people to tell their insurer if they've recently seen a medical professional as not all health changes will increase the price of their policy but may just save them thousands of pounds in unexpected medical costs.'
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