All of us hope we never find ourselves in the position of having to make a claim on our travel insurance policy, not least because the circumstances may be very traumatic for any individuals involved. If you find yourself in the situation of making a claim the information in our guide below could prove invaluable.

It is worth remembering every travel insurance company will have a different claims process, therefore, it is advisable to read your policy document and make sure you understand which telephone numbers apply, especially for emergency situations. In most cases there will be a chapter in the travel insurance policy on what to do in the event of a claim.

The information below assumes that your cover includes those items and provides general information only, make sure you study your travel insurance policy and know what to do if the worst happens.

Personal accident
Obtain a medical certificate from the treating doctor in the event of death; your travel insurance company will require sight of the original death certificate, together with any other necessary documentation.

Personal liability
Do not admit responsibility to anyone or agree to pay for any damage, repair, costs, or compensation. Supply full details of the circumstances giving rise to the claim together with any supporting evidence to your travel insurance company as soon as possible on the contact number they provide, expect them to ask for further details dependant on the circumstances.

Personal money
For all losses report to the police as soon as possible but certainly within 24 hours of discovery and obtain a written report from them. Also report the loss to your tour operator's representative or hotel/apartment manager whenever it is appropriate. Confirmation from your bank will probably be required of the issue of foreign currency. In the case of sterling, documentary evidence of possession must be produced.

Personal possessions & ski equipment
For all loss or damage in transit claims, including delayed luggage on your outward trip retain your tickets and luggage tags and report to the airline, railway company, shipping line, coach company or their handling agent. Obtain a property irregularity report (P.I.R.) form or equivalent document from them. For all travel insurance damage claims keep the items for inspection.

For all other losses, report to the police as soon as possible but within 24 hours of discovery and obtain a written report from them. Also, report the loss to your tour operator's representative or hotel/apartment manager whenever it is appropriate and ensure it's recorded.

For all damage claims obtain an estimate for repairs. In all circumstances, receipts or vouchers for items lost or damaged should be kept as these will help you to substantiate your travel insurance claim. As for personal possessions lost or misplaced on the outward trip, receipts for the purchase of essential replacement items must be produced.

For a lost, stolen, or destroyed passport you will normally be required to supply your travel insurance company with a letter from the consulate stating where the loss was reported and retain all receipts that relate to the necessary incurred costs in replacing the passport.

Cancellation or curtailment charges
If you cancel the trip for medical reasons obtain a claim form and ensure completion of the medical section by your own doctor in your home country. If the trip is curtailed for medical reasons obtain a medical certificate from the treating doctor in the locality where the incident occurred, stating the medical urgency to return home. The 'emergency assistance' company's doctor must agree to this. Receipts and accounts for all expenses incurred must be kept.

Delayed departure
Obtain a letter from the airline, railway company, shipping line or their handling agent, confirming the reason for the delay and detailing the scheduled and actual departure times.

Remember the above details are a general guide and you must ensure that you follow the travel insurance claim rules attached to your own policy.