With searches for Easter trips rising ahead of the holiday weekend, many UK travellers are booking last-minute getaways and arranging travel insurance. Experts warn that failing to declare vaping could invalidate policies.
Travel insurance provides essential protection for accidents or illness abroad, but accuracy on application forms is crucial. Some insurers specifically ask about smoking or vaping, and failing to disclose this information when required can result in rejected claims and leave travellers facing significant medical bills.
Smoking is considered a risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, stroke and respiratory illness, increasing the likelihood of needing treatment overseas. Because of this, insurers may factor nicotine use into coverage decisions.
David Phillips at Vape Superstore said: “If you vape, it’s important to check how your insurer defines smoking or nicotine use. Some providers classify a smoker as anyone who has used nicotine products, including vapes, within the past 12 months. Always check your policy wording carefully and, if in doubt, contact your insurer directly before travelling.”
Declaring medical conditions
Experts also stress the importance of declaring all pre-existing medical conditions. These include cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, heart conditions, and a history of stroke or transient ischaemic attack.
Vikki Measures, former Senior Content Executive at Staysure, explained that disclosure ensures travellers are covered for cancellations or treatment related to existing conditions.
“You’ll need to declare all pre-existing medical conditions when taking out travel insurance,” she wrote in guidance published on 18 December 2024. “Not telling us about your medical conditions means you are at risk of travelling without valid cover and any potential claim being declined.”
A pre-existing condition is defined as any issue, past or current, that has involved symptoms, treatment, medication, medical consultation, investigation or follow-up within the last two years. Travellers must also report recent developments such as appointments, tests or surgery related to their condition.
Many conditions can still be covered, including arthritis, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions, high blood pressure and multiple sclerosis. Cover may also be possible for those awaiting diagnosis or treatment, provided they are not travelling against medical advice or specifically seeking treatment abroad.
However, cosmetic surgery within the past two years must be declared, and trips taken for medical procedures are not covered. Standard policies are also unavailable for individuals with a terminal prognosis.
Screening and policy updates
Medical screening typically involves answering questions about conditions, treatment and recent care. Insurers do not access GP records directly but may ask for clarification if needed.
Travellers must also update insurers about any changes to their health after purchasing a policy. Adding conditions may increase premiums but ensures valid protection.
Rising cases of non-disclosure
Recent research shows around a quarter of UK holidaymakers admit to not declaring all pre-existing conditions, often to save money or بسبب uncertainty. This has led to more rejected claims, with the Financial Ombudsman Service reporting a rise in disputes linked to non-disclosure.
The Association of British Insurers says millions are paid out annually on valid travel claims, but undeclared conditions can leave travellers exposed to costs that can reach tens of thousands of pounds.
Advice for Easter travellers
With millions expected to travel over Easter, experts urge holidaymakers to check how insurers define nicotine use, declare vaping or smoking accurately, and fully disclose their medical history. Contacting the insurer directly can help avoid confusion and ensure proper cover while abroad.