Insurers pay claims they can verify, so good evidence makes the difference between a quick settlement and a long dispute. Here’s what to keep for each type of claim, and how to store it safely.
Evidence for any claim
- Your policy documents and policy number
- Booking confirmations and proof of payment
- Passport and travel documents, showing dates of travel
- Correspondence with airlines, hotels and tour operators
Medical claims
- Medical reports, discharge papers and doctor’s notes
- Itemised invoices and proof of payment
- Prescriptions and receipts for medication
- Your insurer’s reference number from the emergency assistance call
Cancellation and curtailment claims
- A medical certificate or letter explaining why you couldn’t travel
- Bookings, receipts and cancellation invoices
- Proof of any refunds you received, such as airline taxes
- For other reasons, evidence such as a jury summons or redundancy letter
See cancellation cover and curtailment cover.
Theft and loss claims
- A police report with a crime reference number
- Receipts, bank statements or photos showing you owned the items
- Serial numbers or IMEI numbers for phones and gadgets
Baggage and delay claims
- Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and airline reference
- Written confirmation of the delay from the airline, including how long it lasted
- Receipts for essentials bought
See what to do if your luggage is lost.
Before you travel
- Take photos of valuables and note serial numbers.
- Save receipts for expensive items in a cloud folder.
- Save your insurer’s emergency number somewhere that doesn’t rely on your phone.
- Check you’ve declared medical conditions. See pre-existing conditions.
While you’re away
- Photograph damage or injuries.
- Get written statements from staff, such as hotel or tour operator.
- Keep original documents, and take photos of them.
- Write down dates, times and names while they’re fresh.
After you return
Keep everything until your claim has settled. If it’s declined, your evidence will be important for any appeal. See how to make a claim and why claims get rejected.
Frequently asked questions
What if I don’t have a receipt?
Provide other evidence of ownership and value, such as bank statements, photos, serial numbers or warranty documents.
Do I need a police report for every theft?
Most policies require one for theft or loss, often within a set time, so report it promptly.
How long should I keep claim documents?
Until your claim is fully settled, and for a while afterwards in case of questions or disputes.
Can I send photos instead of originals?
Often yes, but keep the originals in case the insurer asks for them.
Related travel insurance guides
- How to Make a Travel Insurance Claim: Step-by-Step
- Why Was My Travel Insurance Claim Rejected? Common Reasons
- How to Appeal a Rejected Travel Insurance Claim
- What Does Travel Insurance Cover? A Plain-English UK Guide
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in the UK in 2026?
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.
