Summer is finally here, and for many of us that means time away; whether it’s a week in the sun, a city break, or a longer trip further afield.
But while holidays are about switching off, the risks surrounding them have changed. Travel disruption, evolving insurance requirements, and changing travel habits mean there’s more to think about than simply locking the door and packing your bags.
Before you go, it’s worth understanding not just how to protect your home – but also where your insurance may (and may not) protect you.
What’s changed for holidaymakers in 2026?
This year, travel is looking a little different:
- Increased travel disruption – strikes and delays across Europe are affecting flights, trains and airport operations[1]
- More complex travel plans – multi-destination trips, rail journeys and stopovers are becoming more common[2]
- Greater financial exposure – higher costs for trips mean higher potential losses if something goes wrong[3]
This means one thing: its essential to make sure your insurance cover matches your travel plans!
The biggest insurance gaps which are often overlooked
Even with insurance in place, there are some common gaps that can catch you out.
- Buying travel insurance too late
Many people booking a holiday leave insurance until the last minute, but this can limit your protection.
Insurance is designed to cover you from unexpected events, so if disruption (such as a strike) is already known when you take out your policy, it may not be covered.
The safest approach: arrange insurance as soon as you book your trip.
- Assuming all travel disruption is covered
Not all delays or cancellations are treated equally.
- Disruption caused by airlines may be handled differently to third-party issues such as airport staff or air traffic control
- Compensation from airlines doesn’t always cover the full cost of your trip
- Not declaring medical conditions
This remains one of the most common reasons for claims being declined.
If you:
- Take regular medication
- Have ongoing or recently treated conditions
…these must be declared when arranging your policy.
Even conditions that feel “under control” can affect your cover if they’re not disclosed.
If you take weight-loss medications such as Mounjaro or Wegovy, you may be wondering whether they need to be declared on your travel insurance. We discuss this in more detail in our related article.
- Relying on a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) or a valid EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) card
While a GHIC or EHIC can help you access state healthcare whilst abroad, it doesn’t necessarily cover everything. For example, it won’t pay for:
- Getting you back to the UK if you become seriously ill or injured
- Trip cancellations, delays, or having to cut your trip short
- Lost, stolen, or damaged belongings
These cards should be seen as a helpful backup, not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.
- Underestimating cancellation cover
With the rising cost of travel, many policies don’t provide enough cover for:
- Flights
- Accommodation
- Pre-paid excursions
If your cancellation limit is too low, you may not recover the full cost of your holiday.
Don’t forget your home while you’re away…
While travel risks are evolving, your home still needs protecting.
Before you go, remember:
- Avoid sharing travel plans on social media in real time
- Use timers or smart devices to give the appearance your home is occupied
- Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on the property
- Ensure all doors, windows, garages and outbuildings are secure
It’s also important to check your home insurance policy conditions.
Many insurers apply limits on how long a property can be left unoccupied, and failing to meet those conditions could affect a claim.
Have you checked…?
Before you travel, take a few minutes to ensure:
- Purchased at the time of booking
- Covers the full value of your trip
- Includes all destinations and activities
- All medical conditions and prescriptions have been declared
Travel plans
- Allow time for delays and connections
- Keep digital copies of bookings and receipts
- Understand what your airline will (and won’t) cover
- Property secured and checked
- Lighting timers or smart plugs in use
- Someone available to monitor your home if needed
Need some reassurance before you travel?
If you’re unsure whether your current cover reflects your plans, it’s worth reviewing your options before you go.
Our knowledgeable team can help review your travel and home insurance to ensure your cover is right for your trip, so you can head away and relax!
Found this article useful? You may also find these related articles of interest:
Travel Insurance in Times of Conflict – Adler Fairways
Heading on Holiday? Steps to Secure Your Home – Adler Fairways
Sources:
[1] Business Travel News EuroControl
[3] Association of British Insurers
Russell Butlin
Personal Lines Director
Adler Fairways
