Holidaymakers warned over electronic device ban on flights as travel insurance MAY NOT cover gadgets
HOLIDAYMAKERS have been warned that their gadgets MAY NOT be automatically covered by insurance under the new rules for electronic devices on flights.
Earlier this week, the UK announced a ban on laptops, tablets and e-readers in hand luggage on passenger flights from certain Middle Eastern countries following a similar move in the US.
The ban applies to any device larger than 16cm long, 9.3cm wide or 1.5cm deep.
MOST READ IN MONEY
Insurers usually require travellers to keep valuable items in their hand luggage, in order for them to be covered.
The new rules mean passengers on affected flights will be forced to put them in their check-in baggage.
Some insurers have said that they will extend their policies to cover those affected by the ban, but travellers are being urged to check before flying.
“Passengers travelling from the affected countries with laptops and tablets should check their policy and speak to their travel insurer to double-check what cover they have for valuables placed in the hold,” Mark Shepherd, from the Association of British Insurers said.
Some insurers - including LV, Allianz and Direct Line - don’t usually cover items which have been checked in but have extended insurance in light of the government’s announcement.
Aviva has said travellers are able to purchase an add-on to their existing travel insurance to cover valuable belongings.
Some travellers may find they have additional cover under a household contents policy for gadgets outside of the home.
Airlines are also liable when luggage is lost, delayed or damaged.
What items are banned?
UNDER the restrictions, devices that are ";larger than a normal sized mobile or smart phone" - which is equivalent to 16cm long, 9.3cm wide and 1.5cm deep - cannot be taken onboard the plane. You can still take these devices on holiday with you, but they have to go in the hold area in your checked luggage. This includes:
- Laptops
- Tablets/Kindles
- E-readers
- Cameras
- Portable DVD players
- Electronic game units larger than a smartphone
- Travel printers/scanners
At present, there are no fixed rules when it comes to the amount of compensation they need to pay.
It depends on the value of the lost item - up to a maximum of £1,000, the Civil Aviation Authority told The Sun Online.
Airlines may also charge passengers who declare valuable items in their check-in luggage in order to insure them.
Passengers should check with their airline ahead of travelling to find out if there is an additional charge.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Money team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 78 24516