It’s worth stopping to check the small print, because many policies have value limits like £1000 or £1500 on tech and gadget claims, plus some T&Cs for overseas loss or damage. Here’s the word;
Holidaymakers travelling with several high-value gadgets might not be covered by travel insurance should they need to claim for theft, loss or damage while away, according to new research. Experts say this is because regular travel policies don’t always include enough cover for all our tech.
The study was conducted by Go.Compare, which asked travellers about the tech they take abroad. Now, the comparison site is urging holidaymakers to check that their travel insurance policy provides enough cover for their gadgets, or to look into extra protection.
According to the survey, 6% of travellers, equal to around 1.7 million holidaymakers last year, estimated that the gadgets they take abroad would have a combined cost of more than £2,000. Yet, research finds that around 72% of single-trip travel insurance policies will only cover gadgets up to £2,000, meaning many travellers could be out of pocket should they need to claim.
This is particularly concerning as 82% of holidaymakers told Go.Compare they do not buy gadget cover with their travel insurance. Meanwhile, one in 10 (11%) travellers was unsure of the cost of their gadgets, making it difficult for them to check if they would be covered under their standard travel policy.
Just 2% of holidaymakers say they don’t take any gadgets away with them on a getaway. Most (87%) bring between one and three devices and around one in 10 (11%) holiday-goers will take four or more gadgets with them.
The insurance comparison site says that some insurance policies will also have a limit on the number of devices included in the cover, as well as a maximum amount you can claim.
Rhys Jones, travel insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Regular travel insurance policies don’t always cover valuable gadgets against theft, loss or damage while you’re on holiday, particularly if you’re packing multiple gadgets or expensive items. Policies can have a limit on the number of gadgets they will cover, and a maximum amount you’d be able to claim for.
“That’s why it’s so important to check the details of your travel insurance policy if you’re planning to take several valuable gadgets with you – especially as some of the latest smartphones can cost in excess of £1,000 today. If you don’t think you’ll find enough protection from your travel insurance, it’s worth considering travel insurance with gadget cover included. This would give you more protection and increased single article limits.
“Travel insurance with gadget cover can cost as little as £13 for a trip to Europe, based on average prices. You can also buy a separate gadget policy, but you’d need to make sure it covers you to take your gadgets on holiday. Similarly, if you think your valuables might be protected under another policy or provider, be sure to check that this includes all your gadgets and provides cover while you’re on holiday.”
The gadget most travellers take on holiday is a mobile phone, which 95% of us will take away. Around two in five (42%) travel with headphones, and a third (35%) will pack their tablet. Other popular devices for holidays include smartwatches (31%), laptops (19%), cameras/video cameras (18%) and e-readers (15%).
Find more information about gadget cover and protecting your valuable tech while abroad on Go.Compare’s website.
Be the first to comment