Golf travel insurance

This is likely to be similar to what a standard travel insurance policy wouldn't typically cover. There are additional points relating to golfing you should be aware of, but always check what is and isn't covered before you buy a policy.

Travelling against Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice

If you decide to travel against government advice, your policy could be invalidated and you won't be covered.

Incidents involving alcohol or drugs

Any claims directly or indirectly resulting from the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs won't be covered.

Pre-existing medical conditions that weren't disclosed before you travelled

When you're applying for travel insurance, you must declare any medical conditions. Not doing so could invalidate your policy, and you won't be covered.

Hiring replacement golf clubs

Your golf travel insurance policy can cover the cost of hiring replacement clubs if yours have been stolen, damaged, or go missing.

Cancellation cover (flights, hotels etc)

If you can't travel for a specific reason, you can claim for costs relating to accommodation, flights and any activities you paid for up front.

Hole in one cover

You may or may not be aware of a very real tradition in golf. If you manage to shoot a hole in one, you're obliged to buy a round of drinks at the clubhouse! It's not a cheap round, but the good news is that many golf travel policies pay up to a specified amount of the bar bill. It's important to note that some policies may cover this, so it's best to check your level of cover before you buy your policy.

There are some insurers that might not offer cover if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Others may offer golf travel insurance at a higher price.

The reason is that certain pre-existing medical conditions mean you might need emergency care while you're away, which your insurer might have to pay for. You therefore pose as a higher risk to insure. These conditions include:

• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Stroke
• Serious heart conditions
• Respiratory conditions
• Terminal illnesses

You must tell your insurer about any health issues before searching for travel insurance to make sure you've got the right cover. If you don't and need to make a claim, it could be rejected and you'd have to pay for medical treatment yourself. If in doubt, contact the insurer before buying.

If you can't find suitable cover, the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) might be able to help. This organisation has set up a directory of insurers who cover customers with pre-existing medical conditions through their brand MoneyHelper. You can also phone MaPS for free, impartial advice on 0800 138 7777.