Men are more likely than women to inflate travel cover claims and seek payment for pre-existing damage to items, a survey for Southern Cross Travel Insurance shows.

It says about 32% of men and 23% of women feel it is acceptable with any insurance to inflate claims to cover policy excesses.

Seeking payment for pre-existing damage is considered fine by 15% of men and 8% of women, according to the research.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance CEO Craig Morrison says most people do not view such dishonesty as fraud.

“People don’t realise that getting caught out could result in a void policy or even a criminal record, with serious implications for getting any future insurance coverage,” he said.

About 60% of respondents think it is acceptable to claim the replacement cost – rather than the current value – of a lost or damaged item.

“If you thought you were going to get a brand new laptop rather than the current value of your five-year-old one, it’s natural you’re going to be disappointed in your policy,” Mr Morrison said.

The survey of 1000 travellers was conducted by research group TNS in February. Its main aim was to find out if people understand the claiming process.

About 49% of men think travel insurers “always” or “most of the time” seek excuses not to pay valid claims, while that view is held by 37% of women.

“Customers should be assured that if the claim fits within the terms of the policy the insurer must pay out, there’s no question about it,” Mr Morrison said. “The key obligation on the part of the insured is evidence.”