Travel insurance delivered significant financial protection in 2024, with members of the Association of British Insurers paying £472 mn across more than 500,000 claims. The ABI’s data reinforces the role of cover as a safeguard for travellers facing emergencies abroad.
Medical treatment continued to drive the majority of claims. These expenses accounted for 34% of cases, up from 29% the year before, with payouts reaching £262 mn in total.
The average settlement stood at £1,528, but costs often escalated into six or seven figures when complex treatment and repatriation were required. One claim alone exceeded £1 mn for a policyholder hospitalised in the United States and flown back to the UK for ongoing care.
ABI policy adviser Fraser Lyall said travellers should treat insurance as essential as passports and sun cream when preparing for a trip. He urged policyholders to disclose pre-existing medical conditions, read their policies carefully, and speak directly with their insurers if any detail remains unclear.
Travel insurance can offer peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered for emergency medical care should you fall ill or suffer an injury abroad.
The ABI also reminded travellers to secure cover when booking a holiday rather than waiting until departure, as policies purchased too late may be invalid.
It noted that protection should be tailored to the type of travel being undertaken, with hazardous activities such as scuba diving often excluded from basic policies unless additional cover is added.
Regulators and insurers continue to warn against overlooking terms and conditions, particularly as claims linked to excessive alcohol consumption, undisclosed medical conditions, or travel against official Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice are unlikely to succeed.
Access to healthcare in Europe through the EHIC or GHIC system remains useful, but ABI stressed that these cards do not replace full insurance, especially since they exclude emergency repatriation costs.
The association emphasised the importance of knowing how to make a claim before travelling.
Policyholders are advised to carry their insurer’s emergency contact details, share those details with a travel companion and a trusted person at home, and retain receipts, medical bills, and reports as evidence if needed.
Industry analysts said the 2024 claims data shows travel insurance continues to provide vital financial support, particularly as international medical costs rise and more travellers seek protection against unexpected disruption.
