What vets need to know about travel insurance

Put down your stethoscope, or related veterinary equipment! Summer is here! If you haven’t already booked a holiday, you may be in the middle of planning a little escape with family and friends. But amidst all the fun, there is a little admin to consider too. Travel insurance is often overlooked; with 1 in 5 people not arranging cover according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

No one wants to waste time and money dealing with issues that might arise from a holiday, so save yourself the hassle and consider taking out travel insurance this year.

As the BVA’s appointed insurance partner, we advise vets on their personal financial needs, veterinary practice insurance, income protection and more. With 15 years’ experience, we have built up a good understanding of what to look out for when taking out travel insurance.

Our top 10 tips for finding travel insurance

Remember to read the small print

In some cases this can be crucial. For example, divorced parents planning to take their children away may find in the small print that the children are only covered if they live with the parent.

Don’t rely on your home insurance policy

This may protect your contents, but it doesn’t protect you.

Consider your pets

In case your return date is delayed, check ahead of your holiday to see if your travel insurance covers the cost of your pets staying longer in their kennels or cattery.

Know your excess

Make sure you are happy to pay it in the event of a claim. Excesses can sometimes be varied to suit your needs.

Check your “annual” travel cover

This doesn’t necessarily mean you can be abroad throughout the year; some policies have a limit on the number of days you can stay abroad at any one time.

Don’t always go for the cheapest cover

It might be appealing for your bank balance; however the level of cover is likely to be poor and it could end up costing you more in the long run.

Take some time to consider what your priorities are

Are you worried about stolen luggage or cancellation costs? Surprisingly, ABI stats indicate that more people claim for medical treatment than lost or stolen possessions.  

Ensure you declare any medical conditions

Figures from the ABI show that every week, travel insurance policies pay out £4 million to around 4000 people who fall ill abroad, however insurance providers can void your policy if you don’t declare pre-existing medical conditions, so save yourself the worry and be upfront from the start. 

Check whats included

Are you an equine vet looking forward to your pony-trekking holiday? Or thinking of winter sports & other extreme activities? Check these are included in your policy. Not fun to think about, but if you injure yourself, medical bills can be huge no matter where you are, but it can be especially significant if you require emergency medical treatment.

Loss and theft

Be careful to check the policy clauses; some insurers may ask for proof that you have taken care to protect your possessions e.g. proof you left your laptop in a locked safe. If you are travelling with expensive items, you need to make sure your policy covers the items in the event of loss or theft.

We know that vets work incredibly long hours and deal with constant pressure, which has considerable impact on your wellbeing. Holidays are a great way to unwind, and take a break from life and work. So, do take care to ensure no nasty surprises come up while you’re away. Our cover includes emergency medical expenses, optional cover for sports, a choice between annual or single trip and much more. 

Get a quote and buy online

Or if you prefer to speak to someone, you can speak to a member of our team by calling 01823 250739.

Lloyd & Whyte Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England No. 03686765. Registered Office: Affinity House, Bindon Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AA.

This article is for information purposes only and is not personal advice. Calls may be recorded for use in quality management, training and support.