Understanding Insurance Small Print

We've talked to a few of our insurance contacts and found out what it all means.

Getting the proper travel insurance is essential on your gap year and teh comapnies we feature wil simplify the process for you - but there are a few things you should always bear in mind before you hand over your cash:

  If you've got an ongoing illness like asthma and diabetes, make sure your  policy covers them (MOST DON'T).  
Ongoing medication and vaccinations are usually not covered  
Dental treatment costs are usually for emergency treatment and agonising  pain relief only.  
If an insurance company says they'll fly you home in a medical emergency,  bear in mind that it won't be up to you - the doctors and the insurance  companies will decide how serious is.  
If you can wait until you get home, it's unlikely your cover will cover any  costs of treatment you think you might need.  
If you're going to do sports, make sure they're covered - don't just assume.  Many companies make you pay extra for adventure sports insurance and hazardous  activity insurance  
If you're off your head when you hurt yourself then there's a good chance  you'll foot the bill.  
If your airline goes bust you're unlikely to be covered - unless you've got  Airline Failure Insurance - make sure you check this included when you buy your  ticket  
If you haven't got a receipt for a stolen item, you probably won't get  anything back from the insurers.  
If you forget to report a theft to the police, you probably won't be covered  for the loss. 

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