Skip to main content

What is travel insurance?

What is travel insurance?

Find Help

More Items From Ergsy search


What Is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of policy designed to cover unexpected events that could occur while you're travelling. It provides financial protection against common mishaps that could disrupt your trip. This insurance generally covers events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.

When purchasing travel insurance, it's important to read the policy details carefully. Different policies cover different risks, so understanding what's included is vital. These policies can be tailored to fit your specific travel needs.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is essential for ensuring peace of mind during your journey. It safeguards you against unforeseen expenses that might otherwise lead to significant financial losses. For UK travellers, this is especially important due to the unpredictability of international travel.

If a flight gets cancelled or delayed, travel insurance can cover additional expenses. Moreover, in the event of a medical emergency abroad, the costs can be considerable without proper insurance. Therefore, having a policy in place is prudent for any trip.

Types of Coverage

Travel insurance comes in various forms to cover different needs. Most policies include trip cancellation and interruption coverage, which reimburses you if your plans change unexpectedly. Also, loss or theft of personal belongings is often included in comprehensive plans.

Medical coverage is another crucial component. It covers hospital bills and medical care in case you fall ill or get injured abroad. Some policies also include emergency evacuation coverage, which ensures you're brought back to the UK safely.

Choosing the Right Policy

Choosing the right travel insurance involves comparing several factors. Cost is an important consideration, but it's equally important to ensure the coverage meets your requirements. Make sure to read the terms and exclusions of any policy carefully.

Consider the destinations you're travelling to and the activities you'll engage in. Some policies may not cover high-risk activities or certain countries. It's advisable to check these details before buying your insurance.

How to Purchase Travel Insurance

There are several ways to purchase travel insurance in the UK. You can buy it directly from insurance providers or through travel agencies. Additionally, many online comparison sites can help you find the best policy tailored to your needs.

Before purchasing, ensure you provide accurate information about your trip and any pre-existing medical conditions. This ensures that your policy is valid and will cover your needs. Understanding the claims process in advance can also be beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance designed to cover unforeseen events and losses that might occur while traveling, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and other unexpected incidents.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind by covering costs related to unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings while traveling.

What does travel insurance typically cover?

Travel insurance commonly covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or delayed luggage, travel delays, and sometimes rental car damage.

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Common exclusions include pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities, and events related to war or terrorism, though specifics vary by policy.

How much does travel insurance cost?

The cost of travel insurance depends on factors such as the length of the trip, destination, age of the traveler, and the coverage amount.

Can travel insurance cover COVID-19-related issues?

Many travel insurance policies now include COVID-19 coverage for medical expenses and trip interruptions, but it's essential to check the specific policy details.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

While not always mandatory, some countries require travelers to have travel insurance before entering. It's advisable to check requirements before traveling.

How can I purchase travel insurance?

Travel insurance can be purchased online from insurance companies, travel agents, airlines, or through comparison websites.

When should I buy travel insurance?

It's best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip to ensure coverage for unforeseen events that might occur before or during your travels.

Does travel insurance cover flight cancellations?

Many travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations due to specific reasons like illness or severe weather, but it's crucial to check the policy for covered reasons.

What should I consider when choosing a travel insurance policy?

Consider factors like coverage limits, exclusions, the reputation of the insurer, and whether the policy covers specific needs unique to your trip.

Can I extend my travel insurance if my trip is extended?

Many insurers allow policy extensions if made before the original policy expires, but it's important to verify with your insurer.

Does travel insurance cover adventure sports?

Coverage for adventure sports varies; some policies include it, while others offer an add-on option for activities like skiing or scuba diving.

What is the difference between single-trip and multi-trip travel insurance?

Single-trip insurance covers one specific trip, while multi-trip insurance covers multiple trips within a year, offering convenience and often cost savings for frequent travelers.

Will travel insurance cover lost passports or travel documents?

Many travel insurance policies cover the costs associated with replacing lost passports or travel documents, but check specific policy details.

Does travel insurance cover travel delays?

Yes, most travel insurance policies provide coverage for travel delays, compensating for additional expenses incurred due to delays over a certain duration.

How do I make a claim on my travel insurance?

To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible and provide necessary documentation, such as receipts, medical reports, or proof of loss or delay.

Can I cancel my travel insurance policy?

Most insurers offer a 'cooling-off' period during which you can cancel for a full refund, provided the trip has not started and no claims have been made.

Does travel insurance cover family members traveling with me?

Family members can be covered, either through a family travel insurance plan or by explicitly adding them to your individual policy.

What happens if I lose my travel insurance policy documents?

You can typically retrieve your policy documents online through your insurer's website or request a copy by contacting their customer service.

Useful Links

Important Information On Using This Service


This website offers general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek guidance from qualified professionals. If you have any medical concerns or need urgent help, contact a healthcare professional or emergency services immediately.

  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search