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| Meta Title | The best travel insurance providers |
| Meta Description | The best travel insurance providers often come with a balance of affordability and excellent coverage. We list some of the best insurers in this guide for you. |
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Getty
Michael Brown
and
Georgie Frost
Monday September 15 2025, 11.37am
BST
,
The Times
*This article contains affiliate links that will earn us revenue.
Travel insurance could save you from an expensive disaster when holidaying abroad. We explain what to look out for when picking a policy and some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
What is travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a policy that people take out prior to going abroad to cover them for the potential cost of any unexpected events. Insurers require details of the individual including age, existing health conditions and where they are travelling to (which continent or countries). They will also ask if the traveller intends to take part in adventurous or winter sports.
This determines the price of the policy.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
What are the different types of travel insurance?
Travel insurance policies can be for an individual or for a group, such as a family.
Policies will either cover you for:
A single trip
— Covers you for one trip of a specified length only
Annual multi-trip
— Covers you for all your trips for one year (if you travel a lot this can work out cheaper than lots of single policies)
How to make car insurance cheaper for new drivers
And the regions that travel insurance cover:
Europe only
Worldwide, including the US
Worldwide, excluding the US
The best travel insurance
Below we’ve listed some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Santander
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Benenden Health
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Stay Sure
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Coutts & Co
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What does travel insurance cover?
When shopping for travel insurance, you should ensure your policy comes with the following as standard:
1. Medical expenses
This would include emergency medical and surgical treatment while you’re away.
It usually costs more for cover in the US as medical bills can run into the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Any treatment that can wait until you get home is not usually included.
Most policies offer cover of ÂŁ1 million for medical costs in Europe. This is usually ÂŁ2 million in the US.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
2. Repatriation
If you needed to be evacuated from the country you’re visiting, either in the event of a medical emergency or death, repatriation is usually covered as standard in most travel insurance policies.
3. Cancellation/curtailment
Coverage under cancellation or curtailment will vary from one insurer to the next, but typically it means if you have to cancel your trip for reasons outside your control, you would get back the cost (or some of the cost) of travel and accommodation costs already paid.
Ensure you check the details of the specific policy before you buy.
4. Missed departure
There will be additional expenses if you miss your departure due to situations outside your control. A good travel insurance policy would cover this. Reasons for missed departure could include your car breaking down or being involved in an accident. Leaving home at the last minute won’t count.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
5. Delay
This covers you for delays to your travel plans, such as severe weather conditions.
Delays known about before (such as strikes) won’t be covered.
6. Baggage cover
This should cover you if your baggage is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed.
You might need extra cover for gadgets or valuable possessions as there are usually limits on separate items.
Losses need to be reported within a certain time frame and you must have a written report from your airline if it loses your baggage.
7. Personal liability cover
This should cover you if you are liable to pay damages due to:
Accidental bodily injury to someone
Or for loss or damage to someone else’s property
Claims made by family members or employees won’t be covered
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
What extra cover can you buy?
To provide a peace of mind you might be able to add the following on to your policy too:
Wedding cover
– If you’re travelling abroad for a wedding, some providers might include an add-on which covers damage to your possessions. If you think you need something more comprehensive, then consider a separate wedding insurance policy
Gadget insurance
– While you’re abroad you might want to cover your laptop, phone, or tablet from theft or damage
Golf equipment cover
– Consider cover for your clubs and other equipment if it is lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged
What is not covered by travel insurance?
Travel insurance won’t cover you for a risk that is known about.
For example, if you have a long-standing illness that means you can’t go on holiday, your insurer might not cover you for the cancellation costs.
What does buildings insurance cover and do I need it?
Insurers also won’t cover you if you have to cancel your trip for reasons within your control. For example, if you miss your flight because you woke up late, your claim is likely to be rejected.
Travel insurance is also unlikely to cover you if you have been irresponsible. For example, if you leave your valuables in your hold luggage, or if a claim is related to alcohol or drugs.
Risky activities are also excluded from most standard polices – this could be anything from horse riding to mountain climbing or skiing. Generally you’ll be able to find an add-on or upgrade the policy to cover many of these – winter sports cover if you’re skiing, for example – but make sure to check.
Each policy will have specific things it won’t cover, and these will vary depending on the provider. So it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
Do I need travel insurance?
Unlike car insurance, travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement. However, it does come with a host of benefits, such as cover for medical emergencies.
The cost of overseas medical treatment can really add up, especially when you include repatriation to the UK. According to the ABI, there is one recorded case in 2022 when a traveller in Thailand contracted a serious blood infection which needed intensive medical treatment. The bill eventually came up to ÂŁ250,000, which was paid in full by their travel insurance provider.
You also need to think about how much it would cost to pay out for your luggage and belongings if they were lost, stolen or damaged and also what you might stand to lose if your holiday company went bust before you made the trip. These costs would all be covered through your travel insurance policy.
How to buy travel insurance
You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from an insurer, or you can go through a comparison website. It’s sometimes easier to use a comparison website as it will quickly show you a range of potential policies to choose from.
If you have an existing health condition, you’re going on a trip which will include activities not covered on a basic policy, or you’re aged 65 or older, you may need a specialist insurer. There is a list of these on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) website. Saga is a provider of travel insurance for the over-50s.
Your premium will depend on a range of factors such as your age, health, type of policy and destination. This is why an average travel insurance premium will probably be meaningless, so make sure you do your research and get a quote from several different providers before deciding on a policy.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine
When to buy travel insurance
It’s a myth that you can buy cheaper travel insurance closer to your departure date. Buying an insurance policy while you’re already away can also invalidate the policy.
The best pet insurance providers
Plus, the longer you have travel insurance the more protection you can enjoy. For example, if your flight is cancelled two days before you were set to depart – and you were waiting until the day before flying to buy your policy – you won’t be able to make a claim.
You can buy travel insurance any time after you have planned your trip.
Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine |
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times financial partners
# The best travel insurance providers
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Michael Brown and Georgie Frost
Monday September 15 2025, 11.37am BST,
The Times
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*\*This article contains affiliate links that will earn us revenue.*
Travel insurance could save you from an expensive disaster when holidaying abroad. We explain what to look out for when picking a policy and some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
## **What is travel insurance?**
Travel insurance is a policy that people take out prior to going abroad to cover them for the potential cost of any unexpected events. Insurers require details of the individual including age, existing health conditions and where they are travelling to (which continent or countries). They will also ask if the traveller intends to take part in adventurous or winter sports.
This determines the price of the policy.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
Advertisement
## **What are the different types of travel insurance?**
Travel insurance policies can be for an individual or for a group, such as a family.
Policies will either cover you for:
- **A single trip** — Covers you for one trip of a specified length only
- **Annual multi-trip** — Covers you for all your trips for one year (if you travel a lot this can work out cheaper than lots of single policies)
- **[How to make car insurance cheaper for new drivers](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/how-to-make-car-insurance-cheaper-for-new-drivers-jwgmmpjz7)**
And the regions that travel insurance cover:
Advertisement
- Europe only
- Worldwide, including the US
- Worldwide, excluding the US
## **The best travel insurance**
Below we’ve listed some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Santander
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Benenden Health
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Advertisement
### Stay Sure
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Coutts & Co
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
## **What does travel insurance cover?**
When shopping for travel insurance, you should ensure your policy comes with the following as standard:
### **1\. Medical expenses**
This would include emergency medical and surgical treatment while you’re away.
It usually costs more for cover in the US as medical bills can run into the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Any treatment that can wait until you get home is not usually included.
Advertisement
Most policies offer cover of ÂŁ1 million for medical costs in Europe. This is usually ÂŁ2 million in the US.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
### **2\. Repatriation**
If you needed to be evacuated from the country you’re visiting, either in the event of a medical emergency or death, repatriation is usually covered as standard in most travel insurance policies.
### **3\. Cancellation/curtailment**
Coverage under cancellation or curtailment will vary from one insurer to the next, but typically it means if you have to cancel your trip for reasons outside your control, you would get back the cost (or some of the cost) of travel and accommodation costs already paid.
Ensure you check the details of the specific policy before you buy.
Advertisement
### **4\. Missed departure**
There will be additional expenses if you miss your departure due to situations outside your control. A good travel insurance policy would cover this. Reasons for missed departure could include your car breaking down or being involved in an accident. Leaving home at the last minute won’t count.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
### **5\. Delay**
This covers you for delays to your travel plans, such as severe weather conditions.
Delays known about before (such as strikes) won’t be covered.
### **6\. Baggage cover**
This should cover you if your baggage is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed.
You might need extra cover for gadgets or valuable possessions as there are usually limits on separate items.
Losses need to be reported within a certain time frame and you must have a written report from your airline if it loses your baggage.
### **7\. Personal liability cover**
This should cover you if you are liable to pay damages due to:
- Accidental bodily injury to someone
- Or for loss or damage to someone else’s property
- Claims made by family members or employees won’t be covered
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **What extra cover can you buy?**
To provide a peace of mind you might be able to add the following on to your policy too:
- **Wedding cover** – If you’re travelling abroad for a wedding, some providers might include an add-on which covers damage to your possessions. If you think you need something more comprehensive, then consider a separate wedding insurance policy
- **Gadget insurance** – While you’re abroad you might want to cover your laptop, phone, or tablet from theft or damage
- **Golf equipment cover** – Consider cover for your clubs and other equipment if it is lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged
## **What is not covered by travel insurance?**
Travel insurance won’t cover you for a risk that is known about.
For example, if you have a long-standing illness that means you can’t go on holiday, your insurer might not cover you for the cancellation costs.
- **[What does buildings insurance cover and do I need it?](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/what-does-buildings-insurance-cover-and-do-i-need-it-2pvhqnccx)**
Insurers also won’t cover you if you have to cancel your trip for reasons within your control. For example, if you miss your flight because you woke up late, your claim is likely to be rejected.
Travel insurance is also unlikely to cover you if you have been irresponsible. For example, if you leave your valuables in your hold luggage, or if a claim is related to alcohol or drugs.
Risky activities are also excluded from most standard polices – this could be anything from horse riding to mountain climbing or skiing. Generally you’ll be able to find an add-on or upgrade the policy to cover many of these – winter sports cover if you’re skiing, for example – but make sure to check.
Each policy will have specific things it won’t cover, and these will vary depending on the provider. So it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **Do I need travel insurance?**
Unlike car insurance, travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement. However, it does come with a host of benefits, such as cover for medical emergencies.
The cost of overseas medical treatment can really add up, especially when you include repatriation to the UK. According to the ABI, there is one recorded case in 2022 when a traveller in Thailand contracted a serious blood infection which needed intensive medical treatment. The bill eventually came up to ÂŁ250,000, which was paid in full by their travel insurance provider.
You also need to think about how much it would cost to pay out for your luggage and belongings if they were lost, stolen or damaged and also what you might stand to lose if your holiday company went bust before you made the trip. These costs would all be covered through your travel insurance policy.
## **How to buy travel insurance**
You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from an insurer, or you can go through a comparison website. It’s sometimes easier to use a comparison website as it will quickly show you a range of potential policies to choose from.
If you have an existing health condition, you’re going on a trip which will include activities not covered on a basic policy, or you’re aged 65 or older, you may need a specialist insurer. There is a list of these on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) website. Saga is a provider of travel insurance for the over-50s.
Your premium will depend on a range of factors such as your age, health, type of policy and destination. This is why an average travel insurance premium will probably be meaningless, so make sure you do your research and get a quote from several different providers before deciding on a policy.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **When to buy travel insurance**
It’s a myth that you can buy cheaper travel insurance closer to your departure date. Buying an insurance policy while you’re already away can also invalidate the policy.
- **[The best pet insurance providers](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/the-best-pet-insurance-providers-7zcpp6wmn)**
Plus, the longer you have travel insurance the more protection you can enjoy. For example, if your flight is cancelled two days before you were set to depart – and you were waiting until the day before flying to buy your policy – you won’t be able to make a claim.
You can buy travel insurance any time after you have planned your trip.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
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| Readable Markdown | times financial partners
Getty
Michael Brown and Georgie Frost
Monday September 15 2025, 11.37am BST, The Times
*\*This article contains affiliate links that will earn us revenue.*
Travel insurance could save you from an expensive disaster when holidaying abroad. We explain what to look out for when picking a policy and some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
## **What is travel insurance?**
Travel insurance is a policy that people take out prior to going abroad to cover them for the potential cost of any unexpected events. Insurers require details of the individual including age, existing health conditions and where they are travelling to (which continent or countries). They will also ask if the traveller intends to take part in adventurous or winter sports.
This determines the price of the policy.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **What are the different types of travel insurance?**
Travel insurance policies can be for an individual or for a group, such as a family.
Policies will either cover you for:
- **A single trip** — Covers you for one trip of a specified length only
- **Annual multi-trip** — Covers you for all your trips for one year (if you travel a lot this can work out cheaper than lots of single policies)
- **[How to make car insurance cheaper for new drivers](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/how-to-make-car-insurance-cheaper-for-new-drivers-jwgmmpjz7)**
And the regions that travel insurance cover:
- Europe only
- Worldwide, including the US
- Worldwide, excluding the US
## **The best travel insurance**
Below we’ve listed some of the best travel insurance providers on the market.
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Santander
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Benenden Health
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Stay Sure
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
### Coutts & Co
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
## **What does travel insurance cover?**
When shopping for travel insurance, you should ensure your policy comes with the following as standard:
### **1\. Medical expenses**
This would include emergency medical and surgical treatment while you’re away.
It usually costs more for cover in the US as medical bills can run into the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Any treatment that can wait until you get home is not usually included.
Most policies offer cover of ÂŁ1 million for medical costs in Europe. This is usually ÂŁ2 million in the US.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
### **2\. Repatriation**
If you needed to be evacuated from the country you’re visiting, either in the event of a medical emergency or death, repatriation is usually covered as standard in most travel insurance policies.
### **3\. Cancellation/curtailment**
Coverage under cancellation or curtailment will vary from one insurer to the next, but typically it means if you have to cancel your trip for reasons outside your control, you would get back the cost (or some of the cost) of travel and accommodation costs already paid.
Ensure you check the details of the specific policy before you buy.
### **4\. Missed departure**
There will be additional expenses if you miss your departure due to situations outside your control. A good travel insurance policy would cover this. Reasons for missed departure could include your car breaking down or being involved in an accident. Leaving home at the last minute won’t count.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
### **5\. Delay**
This covers you for delays to your travel plans, such as severe weather conditions.
Delays known about before (such as strikes) won’t be covered.
### **6\. Baggage cover**
This should cover you if your baggage is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed.
You might need extra cover for gadgets or valuable possessions as there are usually limits on separate items.
Losses need to be reported within a certain time frame and you must have a written report from your airline if it loses your baggage.
### **7\. Personal liability cover**
This should cover you if you are liable to pay damages due to:
- Accidental bodily injury to someone
- Or for loss or damage to someone else’s property
- Claims made by family members or employees won’t be covered
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **What extra cover can you buy?**
To provide a peace of mind you might be able to add the following on to your policy too:
- **Wedding cover** – If you’re travelling abroad for a wedding, some providers might include an add-on which covers damage to your possessions. If you think you need something more comprehensive, then consider a separate wedding insurance policy
- **Gadget insurance** – While you’re abroad you might want to cover your laptop, phone, or tablet from theft or damage
- **Golf equipment cover** – Consider cover for your clubs and other equipment if it is lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged
## **What is not covered by travel insurance?**
Travel insurance won’t cover you for a risk that is known about.
For example, if you have a long-standing illness that means you can’t go on holiday, your insurer might not cover you for the cancellation costs.
- **[What does buildings insurance cover and do I need it?](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/what-does-buildings-insurance-cover-and-do-i-need-it-2pvhqnccx)**
Insurers also won’t cover you if you have to cancel your trip for reasons within your control. For example, if you miss your flight because you woke up late, your claim is likely to be rejected.
Travel insurance is also unlikely to cover you if you have been irresponsible. For example, if you leave your valuables in your hold luggage, or if a claim is related to alcohol or drugs.
Risky activities are also excluded from most standard polices – this could be anything from horse riding to mountain climbing or skiing. Generally you’ll be able to find an add-on or upgrade the policy to cover many of these – winter sports cover if you’re skiing, for example – but make sure to check.
Each policy will have specific things it won’t cover, and these will vary depending on the provider. So it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **Do I need travel insurance?**
Unlike car insurance, travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement. However, it does come with a host of benefits, such as cover for medical emergencies.
The cost of overseas medical treatment can really add up, especially when you include repatriation to the UK. According to the ABI, there is one recorded case in 2022 when a traveller in Thailand contracted a serious blood infection which needed intensive medical treatment. The bill eventually came up to ÂŁ250,000, which was paid in full by their travel insurance provider.
You also need to think about how much it would cost to pay out for your luggage and belongings if they were lost, stolen or damaged and also what you might stand to lose if your holiday company went bust before you made the trip. These costs would all be covered through your travel insurance policy.
## **How to buy travel insurance**
You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from an insurer, or you can go through a comparison website. It’s sometimes easier to use a comparison website as it will quickly show you a range of potential policies to choose from.
If you have an existing health condition, you’re going on a trip which will include activities not covered on a basic policy, or you’re aged 65 or older, you may need a specialist insurer. There is a list of these on the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) website. Saga is a provider of travel insurance for the over-50s.
Your premium will depend on a range of factors such as your age, health, type of policy and destination. This is why an average travel insurance premium will probably be meaningless, so make sure you do your research and get a quote from several different providers before deciding on a policy.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)*
## **When to buy travel insurance**
It’s a myth that you can buy cheaper travel insurance closer to your departure date. Buying an insurance policy while you’re already away can also invalidate the policy.
- **[The best pet insurance providers](https://www.thetimes.com/financial-partners/insurance/article/the-best-pet-insurance-providers-7zcpp6wmn)**
Plus, the longer you have travel insurance the more protection you can enjoy. For example, if your flight is cancelled two days before you were set to depart – and you were waiting until the day before flying to buy your policy – you won’t be able to make a claim.
You can buy travel insurance any time after you have planned your trip.
*[Compare the best travel insurance quotes with Quotezone, a whole of market insurance comparison engine](https://money-mentor-insurance.thetimes.co.uk/travel/index.php?id=387bde563717614c81c22e22a1565aaa)* |
| Shard | 185 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 4842066857238295985 |
| Unparsed URL | com,thetimes!www,/money-mentor/insurance/travel-insurance/best-travel-insurance-providers/ s443 |