Everyone has done it, and will most likely do it again – forgotten something either going to or from the airport. In some cases, it’s something small and unimportant which can be replaced for a few pounds like toiletries or phone chargers. There are also occasions when items even get left behind on purpose, especially when you are worried about exceeding your baggage allowance. But it can become a problem if you have left something behind which is expensive like your mobile phone or essential items such as medication for a pre-existing medical condition - which you may need to take whilst on the flight.
In a recent survey, the ten most forgotten items by UK holiday makers are:
1. Charger
2. Sun cream
3. Camera
4. Toiletries
5. Medication
6. Flip-flops
7. Driving license
8. Travel money
10. Boarding pass (after online check-in)
How many of the top ten have you forgotten?
Surprisingly at number nine is travel insurance. This should be purchased before you leave the country as you will not be covered for any delays or cancellations that may occur, not to mention any lost luggage. You also wouldn’t have the valuable cover for medical treatment should you fall ill on your holiday.
Medication makes it quite high on the list at number five. If you happen to be unfortunate enough to have misplaced or lost your medication, you could be in for a nasty surprise. Especially if you require medical attention as a result of not having your medication.
The cost of prescription drugs in the USA vs UK
If you are on prescription medication, the cost of this in the UK will be £8.60 or free if you are over 60 or a minor. Compare this with the cost of medication in the USA and you will see why it is just as important to take your medication with you as it is to have travel insurance. Some medication in the US can cost several times more than the UK equivalent, so do check you have your medication with you before you travel.
Some insurers will cover you up to a certain amount for your prescription drugs, in some cases it can be up to £300 but if your prescription is more expensive than this, you might find it will cost you a large amount of your spending money or worse.
Can I even take my medication abroad?
Before you have booked your trip and travel insurance, you will know if you are permitted to take your prescribed medicine abroad. You can find out what is permitted by visiting the NHS website so there is no confusion when you get to airport security. You will also need to check that you can bring the medication you purchased abroad back into the UK as this isn’t always the case.
You may be asked to for a certificate for your medication but you can obtain one of these through your doctor.
If you have pre-existing medical conditions to declare, we can compare travel insurance to include these on the policy.
To get a quote for travel insurance, call our team on 01243 784 000.
