The common activity is something many will do without thinking about the impact on their insurance
Scottish tourists could see their travel insurance policies being cancelled if they do this common activity when abroad. According to experts, travellers should think twice before booking activities when on holiday, as they may void their policies.
It’s important for British holidaymakers to have travel insurance before they jet abroad, as they might need it if they become ill or are injured. The cover is designed to handle unforeseen medical expenses, misplaced or pilfered items, holiday cancellations and even urgent transportation needs.
However, not everything you do when travelling is covered by your policy. Experts at Quotezone.co.uk have now warned travellers to be aware of activities that could land them in trouble and out of pocket if something goes wrong.
The warning comes after research found that more than a third of Brits look for activity-filled holidays when heading abroad. Meanwhile, they report an increase in online searches for holiday activities, surging by 136% in the past month.
One activity that could result in your travel insurance claim being rejected is riding an electric scooter. This is popular in destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, where many Brits go to have an unforgettable backpacking experience, reports the Express.
However, injuries can be sustained when riding electric scooters and bikes, and your travel insurance might not cover any hospital treatment you need. This is especially true when you ride an e-scooter without a proper licence or a helmet.
Additionally, some policies won’t cover motorbikes over a certain engine size unless you have a full motorcycle licence. This warning also applies to British tourists considering renting a jet-ski or going scuba-diving while they are on holiday abroad.
Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Many Brits don’t realise that popular holiday activities like jet-skiing or quad biking could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket if they’re not properly insured.
“Even if coverage is in place, claims can still be rejected if local safety laws are broken, the holidaymakers don’t wear a helmet or are found to be under the influence of alcohol.
“When heading abroad, people often think activities like banana boating and go-karting, popular with young travellers, stag and hen parties, are included as standard, but this is rarely the case and could leave thrill-seekers at risk.”
The Foreign Office also recently warned Brits to disclose vital information on their travel insurance or face potentially crippling bills of more than £150,000.
When seeking coverage, concealing any existing medical issues could entirely invalidate your policy.
The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) stated: “If you travel internationally you should buy appropriate travel insurance before you go, covering you for existing physical or mental health conditions (including those currently under investigation) and any activities you will be doing whilst you are away.
“If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.”
