What are common reasons travel insurance claims are declined?

Common claim denials include: pre-existing conditions without waiver, known events (buying after storm forecast), fear of travel, alcohol/drug-related incidents, and activities considered high-risk without coverage.

  • Pre-existing conditions not properly disclosed or waiver requirements not met 

  • "Known events": purchasing policy after a storm is forecast or situation becomes known 

  • Fear of travel or change of mind (not a "covered reason") 

  • Alcohol or drug-related incidents, standard exclusion in most policies

  • High-risk activities without adventure sports add-on 

  • Failing to report claim within required timeframe

  • Insufficient documentation (missing receipts, police reports, medical records) 

  • Traveling to a country with a travel warning (some policies exclude)

You may also like: Can I buy travel insurance after I have already started my trip?

Official resource: Insurance Information Institute

Traveling soon? See our Travel Essentials page.

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