Be open from the start and you will save yourself money in the future

EUROPE’S economic woes haven’t dented our appetite for travel. If anything, we’re intent on getting the most out of our much-needed getaways even as we are on the lookout for bargains. There are certainly some excellent deals to be had, as operators and destinations compete for the business. 

Meanwhile, more people are turning to short breaks as a way of getting a travel ‘fix’ while maximising the budget. If you’re one of them, taking out an Annual Multi Trip policy with Globelink Travel Insurance makes obvious savings sense.

The one area you shouldn’t be economical in  is your medical history when you speak to your insurer. Every year, a significant number of Brits head abroad with a travel policy that’s invalid before they even reach the check-in desk. 

They’re the people who, naively or not, don’t come clean about pre-existing health facts that may affect the terms of their insurance. 

Each and every year, some of them find themselves without sufficient travel cover, as the condition they didn’t disclose suddenly needs medical attention. The insurance claims investigators are well used to finding out the whole story so you’re advised to give a complete account in the first place.

If your holiday needs to end early and a condition warrants your flying home with a medical escort, you could see an average bill of around £4,000 (€4,700) in Europe, and that’s flying economy class.

Repatriation by air ambulance from the US or Australia can cost tens of thousands, which is surely not part of anyone’s holiday budget.

A new UK consumer law, introduced in April, should make it harder for travellers to invalidate their travel insurance by failing to disclose important facts relating to their health. 

That can only be a good thing, since it should help to cut down claims disputes. However, the law does expect you to fill out the online form honestly and accurately when applying for or renewing your travel insurance.

What you perceive as a ‘little white lie’ could leave you without proper cover at the time you need it most. Non-disclosure makes even less sense when your condition might actually be eligible for automatic coverage. 

At Globelink Travel Insurance, our policies embrace a large number of pre-existing conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure, provided you have no related complications. If in doubt contact us, we’re here to help.

For an instant quote and to arrange secure cover online visit www.globelink.co.uk, the leading travel insurer for people living in EU countries. Or you can telephone Globelink on 0044 1353 699 082 or their Spanish links line on 966 265 000 or 951 242 434.