As upsetting as it may be, your travel can be cancelled at any time for a variety of reasons. About 30-40% of travel insurance claims reported in 2023 were made before departure^.

If you have travel insurance, this may reimburse the cost of travel plans if you need to cancel for a covered reason.

To receive reimbursement, you may need to file a claim and submit supporting documentation that validates your claim eligibility. Read on to find out more about claiming travel insurance prior to travel.

If you need to cancel your trip

You may find you need to cancel your travel due to reasons outside your control. If this is the case, you may be able to cancel your flight and be reimbursed if you have an eligible reason. However, this reason would need to be detailed in your travel insurance policy.

Medical: In the case of trip cancellation claims related to medical issues, it may be necessary to provide medical support from a doctor. If you need to cancel your trip before departure due to injury or illness, it’s advisable to consult a doctor and obtain documentation that confirms your inability to travel. This requirement may apply even if you have a pre-existing condition, have obtained the pre-existing medical condition waiver, and are familiar with managing your condition. Ultimately, the key is to provide the necessary documentation to substantiate your claim to the insurance company. If in doubt, ask your insurer what evidence they need.

Family emergency: An unexpected and severe illness impacting a close family member or business partner may possibly be included in your travel insurance. Check your product disclosure statement (PDS) to see if it’s covered and if there are any conditions and limitations.

Job loss: Experiencing redundancy prior to your planned travel can possibly be claimed under your travel insurance, however its best to check with your insurance provider or PDS.

Cancelled annual leave: If you are a full-time essential worker, such as a police officer or firefighter, having your annual leave revoked due to a crisis requiring your presence, this may be covered under your insurance. Again, check with your provider or in the PDS.

Your trip has been cancelled

On the rare occasion, travel may be cancelled by your travel providers and you may be able to claim travel insurance.  

Natural disasters: Unpredictable and devastating, natural disasters can often leave regions destroyed, damaged, or even inaccessible. If your destination has been impacted by a natural disaster, flights may be refunded or credited by your airline but if you’ve paid direct for accommodation or events that have been cancelled or destroyed, refunds may be difficult or even impossible to obtain. If this is the case, check with your insurance provider if you are eligible to make a claim.  

Cancellation of a course: A seminar or course you were intending on travelling to may be called off for whatever reason. Once again, contact your provider to see if you are eligible to make a claim. 

How to claim before a trip 

To initiate a trip cancellation claim on your travel insurance policy, it’s recommended that you contact your insurance provider using their preferred methods. This will usually be outlined in your policy documentation.

They will guide you through the process and provide you with specific instructions on how to submit your claim. Depending on the reason for your claim, they will also inform you about the necessary documentation required to support your case. 

For more reading: Smartraveller