Travel Insurance
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Whether you’re going on a short trip or wish to go around the world, travel insurance is really important. It protects you from several scenarios that may affect your health, well-being, possessions and bookings while traversing the globe.
SimplyQuote understands how overwhelming the travel insurance market can be, with hundreds of insurance providers, policies and levels of cover. All you want is to go on vacation – so let us take some stress off your shoulders.
Using the comparison tool you can quickly compare affordable travel insurance cover to find a policy that suits your unique travel needs.
Why Do You Need Travel Insurance ?
Travel insurance offers financial protection against a variety of travel-related emergencies. The recent global pandemic showed us that insurance cover is more important than we once thought.
You should ideally purchase travel insurance at the same time as when you make your bookings.
That way, you’ll be protected from the get-go.
Here’s why you should consider getting travel insurance for your next trip:
- Helpful for securing refunds on bookings.
- Provides peace of mind should alternative travel arrangements need to be made.
- Safeguards you and your group against unexpected events.
- Cover if the situation is out of your control, like if your flight is cancelled.
Without travel insurance, it can be risky to make any travel arrangements. If anything goes wrong with your trip, getting refunds or making new plans can be a struggle if you don’t have insurance.
For example, if you head off to the US, and end up fracturing your leg, you could be facing the following expenses:
- X-rays: Up to £800
- Crutches: £80
- Cast: £188
- Operation: Up to £27,000
With travel insurance, you can travel stress-free knowing that medical bills abroad will be covered.
What does Travel Insurance Cover?
Travel insurance will cover various events that can occur when you’re travelling. Most travel insurance policies will cover the following:
Medical treatment
Getting injured when you’re travelling can be a real nightmare. Most standard insurance policies will include medical cover, meaning the cost of emergency medical treatment will be paid for.
In the UK, we’re used to great healthcare, but once you start travelling, it can become very expensive to get treatment. Getting travel insurance that covers medical expenses is never a bad idea.
Repatriation
If you require emergency medical care and need to head home, travel insurance cover can include repatriation. This covers the cost of arranging travel to get you home safely and quickly.
In some cases, it will require a specialist approach, like if you need to be airlifted.
Look at repatriation cover that provides up to at least £1 million.
Note that the decision of repatriation is up to the insurer. Their decision will be based on which country you’re in, the cost of treatments in that country, and whether the required treatment is readily available.
Cancellation and travel disruptions
Unfortunately, cancellations and travel disruptions are a reality of travel – whether domestic or international. If you have to cancel your trip for a reason included in your policy, then cancellation cover allows you to claim the cost of the trip (depending on how much cover your policy provides).
Even though your trip is highly unlikely to be completely cancelled, you can never guarantee your holiday will be secure. You might also fall ill unexpectedly, have jury duty or have a work event come up that leads you to cancel your trip.
By ensuring you have the right holiday insurance policy in place, you’ll be able to recoup financial losses from cancelling your trip.
Most policies will pay if:
- You suffer an accident or become ill
- Your home is damaged during a flood or fire
- Bereavement
It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider before you take out the policy, to see exactly what is covered.
Luggage and personal belongings
Have you ever gone to baggage claims only to discover your bag is not coming past on the conveyor belt? This is a terrible feeling, especially if you are travelling with valuable personal belongings.
Baggage cover enables you to make a claim if your luggage or belongings get lost, damaged, or stolen. This is a must for most travellers!
There’s usually a financial cap placed on how much will be paid out for lost or stolen baggage. This can be anywhere between £750 and £4,000+. If valuable items are being packed into the luggage that exceeds the payout costs, then it’s worth insuring these separately. These are usually referred to as a bolt-on or add-on to your policy.
Personal liability and legal expenses
An incident may occur while travelling that leaves you personally liable for the damage. You’re going to want to have cover for that.
For example, if you’re driving abroad and you accidentally injure someone or cause damage to their property, your policy will cover the cost of legal expenses that might follow.
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What Is Not Covered By Travel Insurance?
There are always some scenarios not covered by standard travel insurance policies:
Pre-existing medical conditions
Standard travel insurance policies will not cover the medical costs of pre-existing issues. Insurance companies will consider you a greater risk to insure if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
You need to be truthful about any ailments you have when buying insurance to ensure you get accurate cover. Your insurance provider won’t take too kindly to you attempting to commit insurance fraud and get cover for a pre-existing medical ailment.
Some travel insurance policies allow you to add the treatment of pre-existing medical conditions to your cover for an additional fee.
Dangerous activities
We know that some of you are real daredevils and get a thrill from adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving, rock climbing or cliff jumping.
But, just know that a travel insurance provider is not going to want to cover these risky, death-defying activities. You’re intentionally putting yourself at risk of injury (or death), and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a policy that includes these activities.
Certain destinations
Insurance providers refuse to cover certain countries or destinations. It could be because of global events or upheavals that make these destinations unsafe to travel – putting you at greater risk of injury.
Insurance providers want to minimise the chances of you making a claim, so if you’re travelling to a war zone or country that just experienced a natural disaster, your insurance company will not be willing to cover you.
Be wary of where you’re travelling to and how it can impact your travel insurance.
Claims due to excessive alcohol or drug consumption
If you claimed as a result of excessive alcohol or drug consumption, you’re unlikely to make a successful travel insurance claim. Your insurer will insist on seeing medical records that might indicate intoxication.
Accidents or injuries caused when under the influence warrant an insurance provider to reject your claim.
Terrorism
Terrorist attacks are often seen by travel insurance providers as being something out of anybody’s control, making it a risk for claiming.
Although you can avoid high-risk destinations, nowhere is truly safe from an unexpected attack. Similar to natural disasters, insurance companies won’t pay out if a terrorist activity impacts your holiday.
Changing your mind or missing a flight
If you decide you no longer want to travel, or it’s your fault you missed your flight (like oversleeping or getting to the airport late), you won’t be compensated. Cancellation or trip disruptions will only be covered if situations are beyond your control.
What Type Of Travel Insurance Policy Do I Need
There are various types of policies to be aware of. The type you choose will depend on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, your health conditions, and the type of trip you’re planning.
Single trip cover
A single trip travel insurance policy usually lasts for an entire year, but will only cover one trip. The trip duration doesn’t matter – whether it is a few days or a couple of weeks.
This is one of the most common insurance policies to take out and is suited to those who don’t travel often and want a one-off cover option.
Annual multi-trip
Annual multi-trip policies are ideal for those who plan to vacation a few times a year. This insurance covers you for all the trips you plan on taking in a single year.
Most policies place a 30-day cap on the trip duration, but that’s still more than long enough for a standard traveller planning several trips for the year ahead.
It is a very popular cover option for avid travellers who don’t want to buy a new policy for each trip.
Worldwide cover
Worldwide travel insurance usually has two options:
- Includes America, Canada and the Caribbean
- Excludes these countries
If you don’t plan on travelling to these destinations, you don’t really have to get this type of policy. But, if you think you might want to travel to these countries in the coming year, it might be worthwhile getting this cover.
The reason that America, Canada and the Caribbean are specifically included in worldwide cover is because of the high cost of healthcare in these countries.
Backpackers
Backpackers travel insurance is similar to multi-trip cover as it will cover several backpacking trips across a single year (up to 18 months – depending on the policy).
This policy is a must-have for backpackers wanting to see the world. It caters to the unique needs of backpackers, such as travelling for a few months at a time, visiting multiple countries, and sometimes covering high-risk activities like scuba diving or hiking.
Group or family cover
Group or family travel insurance is perfect for insuring several members of a family or group under one policy. Should anyone in the group become injured or ill, they’ll be covered.
The only exception is if one member has a pre-existing condition – that person may have to take out their own policy.
Senior cover
Travel insurance cover for seniors is often more expensive since those in their golden years have a higher risk of injury or illness.
It’s not impossible to get good cover as a senior – you’ll just have to pay a bit more. Shopping around with the help of SimplyQuote can help you find affordable cover.
Pre-existing medical conditions
As mentioned, pre-existing medical conditions are not covered by standard policies, and you’ll have to get this cover specifically, which will bump up your travel insurance cost.
If you want to get this add-on, you need to let your insurer know about any medical conditions you have so they can include it in your policy.
If you don’t let them know, and your condition worsens while travelling, your treatment, medical bills or repatriation won’t be covered.
Cruise cover
Travelling on a cruise ship is a bit different than your standard holiday. The ship might miss a port stop due to bad weather, or an illness abroad can see you confined to your cabin. Cruise ships also tend to stop at several countries where you can get off.
Cruise travel insurance will cover these unique scenarios, and is a good idea to buy each time you go on a cruise.
Business cover
Travelling for work is different than travelling for pleasure, as you’re likely to have expensive technology and clothing with you. This cover will replace stolen or lost items (like a company laptop) and may also cover the cost of sending a colleague if anything happens to you and you can’t complete the trip.
Under 18s
If your child (under the age of 18) is travelling by themselves you can get specialist cover for them. One example is if your kid is going on a school trip out of town and you feel like the standard insurance policy under the school’s insurance is not sufficient.
They’ll be covered in terms of medical expenses, personal liability, cancellation or delays and lost possessions.
What Additional Cover Can You Add To Your Travel Insurance Policy?
If you read your policy details and notice something you need for your trip isn’t covered, you can add on additional cover so that all scenarios and activities you foresee for your holiday are covered completely.
Additional cover will increase the insurance cost, but is worthwhile.
Winter sports cover
Winter sports, like snowboarding and ice skating, are considered risky and are not usually covered by a standard travel insurance policy. If you love cooler climates and adventurous winter holidays, this add-on is worth it.
Ski holidays cover
Skiing is another risky winter sport, commonly causing injuries (especially if you’re inexperienced). Whether you’re a pro on the slopes or skiing for the first time, getting ski holiday insurance is a good idea. It will cover you if you need emergency help, like an air ambulance.
Extreme sports cover
Extreme sports are similar to winter sports but cover more activities. From scuba diving to horse riding and downhill cycling – if you plan on taking on these adrenaline-inducing activities, this add-on is a great idea in case of an accident.
Passport cover
Passport cover is important, especially since you need your passport to leave the country you’re visiting. If you’re someone who often misplaces your belongings, or you’ve lost your passport before, we’d strongly recommend you get this add-on. It will cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen passport as well as accommodation if you miss your transport due to not having a passport.
Gadget cover
Most of us travel with some kind of gadget, like your phone, laptop or camera. Gadget cover is essential whether you’re away for business or pleasure.
It insures your cameras, laptops, drones, smartwatches and phones – items usually not included in a standard policy. However, if you have older gear that’s not worth much, this insurance add-on may be an unnecessary expense.
Golf cover
Replacing clubs and golf equipment can be very expensive. You might also become injured on the golf course, like if you get in a golf buggy accident. This type of cover is useful if you’re going away for overseas golfing holidays.
Travel disruption cover
Most standard policies cover travel disruptions or cancellations, but if yours doesn’t, then this is a good add-on to include. Whether the disruption is out of your hands (like protests or bad weather), or caused by you (like injury or illness), this cover will refund you or help you reschedule your trip without losing your booking fees
Terrorism cover
If you have to cancel your trip or leave a country because of a terrorist attack, you’ll be financially protected and will be able to recoup any losses from cancelled bookings, as well as book a flight and accommodation to escape the situation.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
Several factors influence the cost of travel insurance:
- Age: Older travellers are typically more vulnerable to health risks or injury.
- Pre-existing medical conditions: These increase your risk level as medical complications might arise.
- Trip duration: The longer you’re travelling, the more expensive your cover will be.
- Destination: Some countries are considered higher risk or have more expensive healthcare.
- Policy limits: Higher cover levels will cost more.
According to NimbleFins, single trip travel insurance will cost £10.90 if you’re travelling through Europe and £28.70 if you’re going wider abroad. Annual multi-trip cover costs an average of £10.90 for European trips and £29.90 for worldwide travel.
Looking for the cheapest Travel Insurance? Get your quote today!
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How Can I Get Cheaper Travel Insurance?
Here are some ways in which you can save money on your insurance premiums.
Compare travel insurance policies
The best way to save money on your travel insurance is to use the comparison tool and let SimplyQuote provide you with cheaper travel insurance options that will still meet your needs.
Select the right policy
Consider the policy you’re taking out and your needs – in most cases, single trip cover will suffice if you don’t plan on taking several vacations during the year.
The insurer may push worldwide insurance or a multi-trip policy on you, but these are more expensive and often not needed.
Opt for a family or group policy
If you’re travelling as a family or a group, you should opt for one of the policies that covers several people.
It has a financial benefit since group policies are more affordable than each individual getting insurance. Plus, it will save you the admin of keeping track of stacks of travel documents.
Consider the cover needed for your trip type
You should consider your trip itself. Are you doing extreme or winter sports, or spending a leisurely week in Paris? What you plan on doing during your trip will indicate which cover you require.
Read the policy details carefully and find a policy that meets your needs.
Don’t over-insure
You might be convinced to buy a whole lot of policy add-ons, but this will just increase your insurance costs. Consider your needs – like if you have pre-existing medical conditions or if you plan on doing extreme sports – and only add on what is necessary.
Find out if you’re already covered
Some banks or credit card companies will offer you travel insurance cover. You might also be covered for certain situations if you have a global health insurance card or a European health insurance card that will cover medical treatment in certain countries.
How To Choose The Right Travel Insurance Cover
The right cover can be found by weighing up all the necessary cover you need as an individual or group.
Start by noting down all the activities you plan on doing as well as any add-ons you need, before you even start looking at policies.
That way you’ll know what you’re looking for, instead of aimlessly scrolling through dozens of policy documents from different insurance providers.
Also consider the cost of the insurance policy, the excess you may have to pay, and the maximum benefits offered.
How To Compare Travel Insurance Quotes with SimplyQuote
To help us help you, we require the following information:
- Your personal details
- How often you want to travel in the year
- Duration of your trip(s)
- Your destination
- Purpose of the trip and what you want to do
- Any medical conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can buy insurance if you’re pregnant. It is not seen as a medical condition that requires extra cover, and most insurance companies won’t care whether you’re pregnant or not.
Of course, there are risks involved when travelling while pregnant, especially as you’re nearing the birth date. Always check with your doctor before making travel plans to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
Your insurance policy starts as soon as you’ve booked your trip (and not once you arrive at your destination as many people believe). That means that you should buy insurance at the same time as when you’re making your bookings so that you’re protected from before you depart.
Excess is the amount payable by you in the event of a claim. It is often also called a deductible.
Check the excess requirements of different policies before buying insurance to make sure it’s not too expensive.
Although it is not a necessity or a requirement, as your medical treatment will be covered by the NHS, it can still be useful if domestic flights are cancelled or your possessions are stolen.
Yes, it is possible, however, we recommend you buy insurance before you depart. You’ll be able to get specialist travel insurance once you’ve left the country, and there will be a waiting period so you can’t make an immediate claim.
Yes, you’re able to buy travel insurance that offers COVID-19 cover. Although COVID-19 is less common these days, this insurance will cover emergency medical treatment and repatriation.
Yes, although a global health insurance card and a European health insurance card will cover state healthcare expenses, insurance will cover repatriation, delays, cancellations and lost baggage.