Travel insurance is an essential part of planning any trip from the United Kingdom. Whether you are booking a European city break, a long-haul holiday or a business trip, the right policy protects you against unexpected medical costs, cancellations and travel disruptions.
With rising healthcare costs abroad and increasing airline disruption, insurance is no longer optional for serious travellers. This guide explains what travel insurance covers, how much it costs and how to choose a policy that offers genuine value.
Contents
What Is Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is a policy that provides financial protection against risks associated with travelling. It typically covers emergency medical treatment, trip cancellation, lost luggage and other unforeseen events.
For UK travellers visiting Europe, insurance remains strongly recommended despite the availability of the GHIC card, as the GHIC does not cover all medical or non-medical costs.
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
Standard insurance policies usually include:
- Emergency medical expenses and hospital treatment
- Medical repatriation to the UK
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Lost, stolen or damaged baggage
- Personal liability
- Travel delay compensation
Higher-tier policies may also include legal expenses, gadget cover and business equipment protection.
What Is Not Covered?
Insurance policies often exclude:
- Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions
- High-risk sports unless added
- Alcohol or drug-related incidents
- Travelling against government advice
- Unattended baggage
Failure to disclose medical conditions is one of the most common reasons for claim rejection.
Types of Travel Insurance Policies
Single Trip Insurance
Covers one specific trip. Suitable for occasional travellers.
Annual Multi-Trip Insurance
Covers multiple trips within a 12-month period. Often cost-effective for frequent travellers.
Family Insurance
Covers parents and children under one policy, usually offering better value than individual plans.
Backpacker Insurance
Designed for extended trips, gap years or long-term travel.
Business Insurance
Includes additional cover for work equipment and business-related disruption.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
Premiums vary depending on:
- Destination
- Trip duration
- Traveller age
- Medical history
- Level of cover selected
- Excess amount
As a general guide:
- European single-trip cover may start from £10–£25
- Worldwide cover including the USA is typically higher
- Annual policies may begin around £30–£60 for basic cover
Travelling to countries with high healthcare costs increases premiums.
Travel Insurance and Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
UK insurers require disclosure of medical history at the time of application. Conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease must be declared.
Specialist insurers exist for travellers with more complex medical needs. Premiums may be higher, but coverage is essential for peace of mind.
Is Travel Insurance Required?
While not mandatory for most destinations, some countries require proof of insurance as a visa condition.
Even where not compulsory, travelling without insurance exposes you to potentially significant financial risk. Medical treatment abroad can cost thousands of pounds, particularly outside Europe.
How to Choose the Right Insurance Policy
Check Medical Cover Limits
Look for at least £1 million medical cover for European travel and significantly higher for worldwide travel.
Review Cancellation Limits
Ensure the policy covers the total value of your trip.
Confirm Excess Levels
A higher excess reduces premiums but increases out-of-pocket costs if you claim.
Assess Activity Coverage
If skiing, scuba diving or adventure sports are planned, confirm inclusion.
Compare Multiple Providers
Use regulated comparison tools or brokers rather than relying solely on airline add-ons.
Travel Insurance for UK Families
Family insurance can provide:
- Coverage for multiple children under one policy
- Lower total premium compared to separate policies
- Flexible cancellation protection
Check age limits for dependent children before purchasing.
When to Buy Travel Insurance
Purchase insurance immediately after booking your trip. This ensures cancellation cover is active from the date of purchase.
Waiting until shortly before departure may leave you unprotected if unforeseen events occur.
Making a Insurance Claim
To improve claim success:
- Keep receipts and documentation
- Report theft to local authorities immediately
- Contact your insurer’s emergency helpline for medical issues
- Follow insurer guidance before arranging treatment where possible
Incomplete documentation can delay or invalidate claims.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the cheapest policy without reviewing limits
- Failing to declare medical conditions
- Ignoring policy exclusions
- Underestimating cancellation value
- Assuming GHIC replaces full insurance cover
Careful comparison prevents costly surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance
Is travel insurance worth it for short trips?
Yes. Even short trips can result in expensive medical emergencies or cancellations.
Does travel insurance cover flight cancellations?
Yes, if cancellation is due to a covered reason outlined in the policy.
Can I buy travel insurance after leaving the UK?
Some insurers offer cover after departure, but options are limited and premiums may be higher.
Final Thoughts
Insurance is a crucial safeguard for UK travellers. From medical emergencies to trip disruption, a well-structured policy provides financial protection and peace of mind.
Before purchasing, compare cover levels carefully, disclose all relevant information and choose a policy that reflects your destination, activities and health profile. The right travel insurance policy ensures that unexpected events do not turn into financial setbacks.