Travel Insurance
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Understanding Travel Insurance
Like all types of insurance, all being well, you won't have to rely on your policy. But, particularly with the travel industry in the state it currently is, there's a good chance you'll need a bit of protection when on the road. Travel insurance can help cover the cost of emergency medical care, cancellations, or lost baggage, meaning you avoid unexpected expenses if something goes wrong. Travel insurance is not mandatory in most countries, although certain destinations such as Cuba require you to have holiday insurance with medical cover when travelling there from the UK.
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Your Travel Insurance Options
There are plenty of different types of travel insurance to choose from, with different policies designed to offer protection against the unique risks of your trip.
Single trip protection
If you're going away once in the foreseeable future and for a relatively short break, this might be for you. With single-trip protection, you can choose coverage for the exact length of your trip, meaning you don't pay more than you need to.
Annual or multi-trip cover
This could be the policy type to get if you travel alot. Annual policies are designed for those jetsetters who travel multiple times a year. Just make sure to choose the geographical coverage area that includes all destinations you plan to visit.
Backpacker insurance
This is an insurance type designed for people heading on a single long trip, typically across multiple countries. Some insurers offer backpacker policies for couples, families and groups of friends.
Cruise cover
While a cruise holiday is likely to be a stress-free, buffet-heavy holiday on the seas, things can go wrong out there. If they do, cruise cover is key. Some of the specialist coverage on these policies can include missed port departures, schedule changes, or cabin confinement.
Business travel
If you're heading on a work trip, then business travel cover can offer extra protection for items including work equipment, gadgets and even company money.
Family or group travel
Family cover delivers protection to multiple people under one policy. It can be cheaper and more convenient than taking out individual policies.
Skiing insurance
If you're heading to the slopes, then getting insurance is likely to be top of your priority list. While skiing may be amazing fun, it's not the safest of activities. Skiing and other winter sports are just some of the high-risk activities that are not covered on standard travel policies. These need their own specialist cover.
90 day travel policies
As specific as it may sound, 90 days is an important length of time in the world of travel since the UK left the EU. 90 day travel cover can offer protection within the Schengen Area. With this kind of Europe travel protection, you’re covered in most European countries, and even some nearby destinations like Turkey or Morocco.
How much does travel insurance cost?
UK travel insurance pricing is personalised to your specific trip. Insurers calculate your premium based on factors like your age, the length of your holiday, and the specific level of cover you select.Your destination is also a key factor. Providers assess the unique risks of each country to estimate the likelihood of a claim being made.
What does travel insurance actually cover?
General Inclusions:
While policies vary, here’s a quick look at the essentials most plans have your back on:
Medical Essentials - If you get sick or have an accident, your insurer helps cover the doctor or hospital bills.
Lost Luggage - If your bags go missing or get damaged, you can claim back some of the cost to replace your stuff.
Getting Home - If you need to be flown back to the UK for medical reasons, those pricey transport costs are handled.
Trip Cancellations - If life gets in the way—like a sudden illness or family emergency—you can get your money back for a cancelled trip.
Travel Delays - Stuck at the airport? This helps cover the headache of delayed or cancelled flights.
Accident Protection - Provides a payout if you suffer a serious, life-changing injury while away.
Legal & Paperwork - Extra support if you need a lawyer or lose something vital, like your passport.
Common Exclusions:
Again, this will vary depending on your policy details, so make sure you check the fine print before you commit. Common exclusions include:
Running Late - If a flight is missed due to oversleeping or traffic, insurance providers typically won't pick up the tab.
Medical Honesty - It is important to be upfront about pre-existing conditions. Keeping them quiet can void a policy and lead to rejected claims.
Car Rentals - Standard insurance doesn't usually cover hire cars; this is typically arranged through the rental company or an extension of a personal car policy.
Adrenaline Junkies - Planning on skiing, rock climbing, or certain water sports? Extra coverage is usually required for these high-risk activities.
A Change of Heart - Simply deciding not to go isn’t a valid reason to claim. Usually, a documented reason like illness or an emergency is necessary to recover costs.
Alcohol and Drugs - Insurers do not cover accidents or injuries that occur while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Official Warnings - If the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises against traveling to a specific destination and the trip goes ahead anyway, the insurance policy will not provide protection.
Reviewing a policy checklist before departure can help ensure all necessary protections are in place.
How can I get a cheaper travel insurance quote?
There are plenty of steps you can take to keep your travel insurance costs down. They include:
Compare travel insurance quotes
Doing a travel insurance comparison can increase your chances of finding cheap travel insurance online. Via Mirror Switch and Save, you can compare quotes from trusted travel insurers to help you find the protection you need at the right price.
Choose the right policy
What type of travel insurance policy you choose will determine the cover you get and how much you pay for it. For example, if you are traveling multiple times in the year, then an annual policy could work out cheaper per trip when compared to multiple single-trip policies. Making sure you've got the right policy is key.
Increase your excess
If you are willing to increase your excess, you can shave money off of the upfront costs of a policy. But be sure you choose an affordable excess in case you need to make a claim.
Know the value of your belongings
The higher the amount your belongings cost, the more you will end up paying to insure them. It is easy to get this wrong if you bought the items a long time ago. Knowing the true cost of what you are packing means you don’t pay more than necessary.
Consider group policies
A group policy is a great way to save money while making sure everyone in the group is covered.
Avoid unnecessary cover
Additional coverage and add-ons can be tempting, but there is no need to get them, especially as they usually come at an added cost. Be conservative when choosing the coverage, and balance it with your budget.
What optional policy add-ons are available?
Everyone’s travel plans are unique, and adding extras to your holiday insurance can help customise the policy for your exact needs. Options include:
Extra Trip Disruption
Standard plans don't always cover the big stuff like natural disasters or strikes. This extra layer has your back if things outside your control get messy.
Excess Waiver
Usually, you have to pay a small fee (the "excess") when you claim. Adding this waiver means you won't have to pay a penny if something goes wrong—though it does cost a bit more upfront.
Adventure & Winter Sports
If you’re planning on hitting the slopes or white-water rafting, you’ll need this specific cover, as most basic plans aren't designed for high-adrenaline fun.
Trip Extension
Most single-trip policies cap out around 30 days. If you’re planning a longer adventure, this lets you stretch your cover to 60 days or more.
Missed Departure
While "running late" isn't covered, this add-on protects you if you miss your flight because of things like a train delay or a car breakdown on the way to the airport.
Gadget Protection
Your phone, laptop, or smartwatch can easily cost more than the standard policy limit. This ensures your tech is fully protected if it’s lost or damaged.
How to get travel insurance via Mirror Switch and Save:
Enter your travel details
Type in where you’re travelling, the start and end date of your travels, what protection you need, and any pre-existing medical conditions you have.
Start comparing quotes
Check out the quotes provided. They will come from multiple insurance providers, starting with the cheapest first. This lets you easily compare policies and choose the best travel insurance quote for you.
Buy your policy
Once you’ve found a holiday insurance policy, check it covers you for all your travel needs. Once you're happy with the one you've selected, purchase your policy directly from the provider.
Ready to get started?
Compare travel insurance policies now from up to 15 providers
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Travel Insurance FAQs
Can I get covered if I'm travelling while pregnant?
Absolutely! Most insurers don't count pregnancy as a "medical condition," so you’re good to go. Just keep in mind that cover usually stops around the 38-week mark. It’s always a smart move to have a quick chat with your midwife and your insurer before you head off.
What medical details do I need to mention?
It’s best to be an open book. We’re not talking about a sniffle or a cold, but anything more serious like heart conditions, asthma, or mental health support. If you aren't sure, tell them anyway—honesty is the best way to make sure your policy actually works if you need it.
Best cover for over 70s with health conditions?
As we get older, premiums can tick up because there’s a higher chance of needing a doctor. The "cheapest" deal often leaves out the very things you need most, so look for a policy that balances a fair price with solid medical cover.
When should my cover start?
Buy it the second you book! If you wait until the day you fly, you aren't protected if something goes wrong before the trip—like if you get ill and have to cancel.
Why bother with insurance?
It’s not a legal rule, but it is a massive safety net. Without it, a medical emergency abroad could cost you thousands (or more), leaving you with a scary choice between your health and your life savings.
How do I make a claim?
Keep your insurer’s number handy. If something happens, call them ASAP and keep every receipt, police report, or bit of paperwork you get. They’ll take it from there and let you know when the payout is coming.
What is "excess"?
This is just the "entry fee" for making a claim. It’s the portion of the bill you agree to pay yourself before the insurance kicks in. Check the amount before you buy so there are no surprises later.
Do I need insurance if I have a GHIC/EHIC card?
Yes! Those cards are great for basic state healthcare in Europe, but they won’t fly you home in an emergency or pay you back for a stolen suitcase. Think of insurance as the "full package."
Which countries are covered?
Most "Europe" policies cover the usual spots on the Continent, and sometimes a few neighbours like Turkey or Egypt. Always double-check the specific list in your policy to be sure.
Do I need it for UK trips?
Since the NHS has your back for health, it’s not as vital, but it’s still handy. It can cover you for things like expensive hotel cancellations, stolen tech, or lost luggage while you’re exploring closer to home.
