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UK Travel Health Insurance

If you’re planning on visiting the UK, you are advised to take out travel health insurance in order to cover potential healthcare costs during your stay.

For more information about your visit to the UK, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our trusted legal advisors today on  0333 305 9375 , or contact us  online .

Who Needs Travel Health Insurance When Visiting the UK?

If you’re planning to visit the UK from a country outside the European Economic Area (EEA) for less than 6 months, it is recommended that you take out valid travel insurance cover for the whole duration of your stay to help pay for medical care.

If you’re visiting from the EEA, you are entitled to free healthcare with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) or S2 form.

However, it is also advised that you take out travel health insurance in case of other unexpected expenses and incidents that may occur during your visit, such as repatriation costs or lost or stolen property.

If you’re staying in the UK for more than 6 months, you will have to pay the  Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)  unless exempt. You will normally have to pay the fee for the IHS when submitting your visa application for your stay.

Paying the IHS allows you to access NHS services. However, it may still be advisable to take out private health insurance on top of that for other services not covered by the IHS during your stay in the UK.

Why Should I Take Out Travel Health Insurance When Visiting the UK?

Travel insurance is an important part of any trip, especially if you end up requiring unexpected medical care during your stay.

If you are visiting the UK from a non-EEA country, you will be charged at 150% of the standard NHS rate if you have not arranged insurance. As a result, it’s essential that you purchase travel insurance with medical cover before travelling to the UK so you can reclaim any healthcare costs you are required to pay from your insurer.

Travel insurance is also important as your pre-existing health insurance policy may not cover you outside of your home country, or its international coverage may be limited.

In addition, there is also the possibility of falling ill unexpectedly, suffering accidents, illness, or needing medical care because of pre-existing conditions.

Travel health insurance may also help to cover costs if your travel or accommodation plans change unexpectedly or if you misplace important documents such as your passport or airline tickets. Many insurance policies will provide you with assistance with these matters as well as reimburse you if there will be any financial costs incurred.

What Should My Travel Health Insurance Cover?

Your travel health insurance to the UK should cover most of the following:

• Emergency medical expenses, including ambulance, medication and hospital fees
• Medical treatment for pre-existing medical conditions
• Personal injury  and accidents
• Repatriation costs
• Reimbursement for any unused travel and accommodation costs should your trip be cut short
• Cover for lost or damaged items, including luggage, passports, credit cards, money or airline documents
• Emergency legal aid and translation services
• Assistance in finding suitable medical facilities in the UK

It’s important to check that the travel insurance cover necessary travel and healthcare needs to make sure you can get the treatment and medical care abroad during the period of your visit.

Insurance is particularly important for those with pre-existing medical conditions. You must tell your insurance company about any pre-existing medical conditions you have to make sure you can get the cover you need. In some cases, you may have to take out specialist cover rather than standard cover for this.

It’s advised to speak to your doctor for advice before you travel and make plans for how to care for your condition when you are in the UK. You should also bring your health condition identification or a letter saying what medication you are taking.

What Isn’t Covered By Travel Health Insurance?

Travel health insurance policies often have exclusions, which are specific situations or circumstances that will not be covered by the insurance policy.

For example, not declaring your pre-existing medical condition to your insurer will mean that you won’t be able to claim for medical care related to your condition during your trip.

In addition, you likely won’t be able to claim back costs if you do any of the following:

• Travel against government advice, such as if the country you’re travelling from places an active travel warning on the UK
• Travel despite known events, such as natural disasters or pandemics
• Incur losses due to carelessness or lack of reasonable safety measures, such as leaving your belongings unattended in a public place
• Engage in reckless behaviour, such as ignoring safety protocols, safety instructions, or if you injured yourself under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Break the law, such as violating local traffic laws

In addition to these, if you cancel or change your plans for any reason not listed in your base plan, you won’t be able to claim the costs on your insurance.

However, most insurance providers will provide an optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage to your policy that will allow you to change or cancel plans for any reason and claim back some or all of the money.

It’s essential that you familiarise yourself with the details of your insurance policy carefully before setting off on your trip to the UK. Many travel health insurance policies have strict guidelines on what they do and do not cover, so it’s important to know what these are in order to prevent unexpected costs during your trip.

What Else Should I Look For When Taking Out an Insurance Policy?

As previously mentioned, it’s essential that your insurance policy covers any essential travel and medical expenses that may be incurred during your visit to the UK, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

In addition to this, you should also consider the following:

Who You’re Travelling With

If you’re travelling with other people, it may be cheaper and more convenient to get a single insurance policy that covers the whole party rather than individual policies for each person.

For example, many insurance providers offer travel health insurance for couples, families, or groups of friends.

Note that if a person in your party has a pre-existing medical condition, they may require their own individual specialist cover separate from the rest of the group due to differences in coverage plans.

You may find travel health insurance more expensive if you’re over the age of 65. As a result, you may have to look for specialist policies for older travellers to ensure that you have the coverage you need.

Sports or Recreational Activities

If you plan to take part in sports or recreational activities, you will need to ensure that your travel health insurance covers these. This is especially the case if they’re considered to be high-risk activities, such as surfing, BMX, scuba diving, or winter sports.

Method of Travel

It’s worth noting that some methods of travel such as cruises or budget airlines may be excluded from certain travel insurance policies. You should always make sure that your method of travel is covered by your policy, in case of unexpected delays, cancellations or complications.

Add-ons and Extensions

You may wish to purchase additional add-ons or extensions to your travel health policy. For example, if you’re bringing a lot of expensive gadgets or equipment with you to the UK, you may want to purchase extra gadget cover as part of your insurance policy.

Additionally, you may want to add on additional Cancel For Any Reason cover if you want greater freedom and flexibility in being able to change or cancel your travel plans for reasons not covered by your base policy.

Do I Need Single Trip Cover or Annual Multi-Trip Cover for my Trip?

You can buy either single trip cover or annual multi-trip cover before your departure.

Single trip cover only grants you insurance coverage for a single holiday. Your coverage can start either as soon as you book the holiday or the date of your departure, and will end as soon as you come home.

Meanwhile, annual multi-trip insurance grants you coverage for every single trip you take within a 12 month period. The trips you take during this time may be limited to a certain length of time – for example, 31 days.

It may be cheaper to get annual multi-trip cover if you’re planning to go on several trips in a 12 month period. However, if you’re not planning on making many other trips other than your single trip to the UK, it may be cheaper to stick to single trip cover.

If you’re unsure about how many trips you might take in the next 12 months, it may be cheaper and easier to take out an annual multi-trip policy so you know you are covered if you do decide to go abroad.

It’s always best to carefully examine your own circumstances and plans to see which specific type of cover will be more cost-effective and suitable for you.

When Should I Buy Travel Health Insurance?

It’s usually recommended to buy travel health insurance as soon as you’ve booked your trip, or as soon as you’ve made a financial commitment towards it.

This is because it’s best to be covered in the event of your trip being cancelled prior to your departure. Having a valid travel insurance policy will protect you in case any of the following happens:

• Your trip is cancelled due to weather, or other uncontrollable circumstances
• You have to cancel your trip due to personal reasons, such as a bereavement
• You become too ill to travel
• You’re made redundant before your trip

If any of these happen, it may be the case that your insurer could cover some or all of the costs of your trip.

If you’ve left it late to buy travel health insurance before your visit to the UK, it’s still worth looking for insurance providers who will be able to provide you with quick and immediate cover. You just need to ensure that you’ve not yet left home for your trip and that the insurance policy covers everything you need for your visit.

How Much Does Travel Health Insurance Cost?

How much you will have to pay for travel health insurance depends greatly on a number of factors, such as your age, your health, the length of your trip and the complexity of the cover you need.

The specific figures you’ll pay for your insurance will vary based on your country of residence and the insurance company you choose.

Note that the information below uses British travellers buying insurance for trips away from the UK as an example.

The difference between a single trip and annual multi-trip insurance can be reasonably small. For example, British travellers travelling to Europe may pay around £9 for single trip cover but around £12 for annual multi-trip cover.

The average price for older travellers is also much higher. The average price of a single trip cover for British adults travelling to Europe in their 30s, 40s or 50s maybe around £11. However, this figure jumps up to around £30 for people in their 70s, and over £100 for people in their 80s.

How comprehensive your insurance coverage is will also affect the price. A policy that offers higher levels of coverage will cost more than a policy with basic level coverage, as well as offering lower levels of excess.

For British travellers taking our multi-trip cover to Europe, a cover with £1,000 worth of cancellation cover will cost around $17. For £2,000 cancellation cover, this price rises to around £24. For £3,000, it rises again to around £32.

These prices also rise in a similar way when buying couples, group or family travel health insurance cover.

You will also have to pay additional costs on your insurance policy if you have a pre-existing medical condition or choose to add optional extra cover such as for gadgets, winter sports and Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

Which NHS Services Are Free for Visitors?

When you visit the UK, you will be able to take advantage of certain NHS services that you don’t have to claim for on your travel health insurance.

As a result, you will not need to claim on your insurance if you take advantage of these services during your visit. These include:

• A&E services (not including emergency medical treatment if admitted to hospital)
• Family planning services (not including abortions or infertility treatment)
• Treatment for most infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Treatment required for a physical or mental condition caused by torture, female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic violence or sexual violence (does not apply if you have come to the UK to seek this treatment)

In addition, if you’re visiting the UK and need to see a GP, you can register as a temporary patient with a local GP practice.

You will need to be in the area for more than 24 hours but less than 3 months in order to do this.

However, it will be up to the GP practice whether to accept new patients, even if you’re only looking to become a temporary patient.

Other NHS services, such as hospital treatments and prescription medicines, are not free without a valid EHIC, PRC or S2 form or if you’re from a non-EEA country. You should consider travel insurance packages that provide cover for such medical costs and others outside the NHS services.

For assistance with with your visit to the UK, contact us today.

How Can IAS Help?

If you’re planning to travel to the UK, it’s essential to ensure that you have the right coverage to help assist you in the event of accidents, injury or unexpected incidents.

If you have any questions about your trip to the UK, including what type of insurance you need, what type of healthcare you’re entitled to, or what to do in the event of an emergency, IAS is here to help.

We are specialists and immigration lawyers who specialise in advising visitors to the UK as well as assisting them to obtain the right permits and visas and travelling to the UK. We can help advise you on how to get the right insurance cover for your trip, as well as any other concerns you may have about your visit to the UK.

For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our trusted legal advisors on  0333 305 9375 , or contact us through our form  online .

We can help you if you need help with your visit to the UK.

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How to access NHS services in England if you are visiting from abroad

This information is for people who are visiting England from abroad. It tells you how to access different types of healthcare and whether you might need to pay.

Find out how to access healthcare, including planned treatment, in Wales , Northern Ireland or Scotland .

How to get healthcare

If you're not sure how to get the help you need, use this checklist to guide you.

• Call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.
• Call NHS 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice but it's not a life-threatening situation. You can also call NHS 111 if you're not sure which NHS service you need.
• Go to NHS 111 online to get help for your symptoms
• Go to a walk-in centre, minor injuries unit or urgent treatment centre , if you have a minor illness or injury (cuts, sprains or rashes) and it cannot wait until your GP surgery is open.
• Ask a local pharmacist for advice – a pharmacist can give you advice about many common minor illnesses, such as diarrhoea , minor infections, headaches , sore throats , or travel health.
• Make an appointment with your GP if you're feeling unwell and it's not an emergency.

For information about conditions and treatments, read the Health A-Z guides .

You will need to pay for some things such as eye tests, dental treatment and prescriptions, just like people who live in England.

Find out more about paying NHS charges

COVID-19 services

Overseas visitors to England, including anyone living in the UK without permission, will not be charged for:

• testing for COVID-19 when requested by a medical professional
• COVID-19 vaccination services

No immigration checks are required.

Find out more about NHS entitlements for migrants at GOV.UK, including information in other languages

The rules may be different in Wales, Northern Ireland or Scotland.

General practitioners (GPs)

GPs are the first point of contact for nearly all NHS patients.

They can direct you to other NHS services and are experts in family medicine, preventative care, health education, and treating people with multiple and long-term conditions.

If you're planning to live and work in England, you need to register with a GP practice .

You'll need to fill out a GMS1 form using exactly the same details you used when you filled out your visa.

It's up to the GP practice to decide whether to accept new patients or not, but they can only refuse for non-discriminatory reasons.

But being registered with a GP practice does not in itself mean you'll be entitled to free NHS hospital treatment.

Being registered with a GP practice may mean you're invited for NHS screening services , but you may still have to pay for these services when they're not provided by the GP practice.

If you're in England for a short visit but need to see a GP, you can register as a temporary patient with a local doctor.

You need to be in the area for more than 24 hours but less than 3 months.

Again, it's up to the GP practice to decide whether or not they'll accept new patients.

Treatment will be free of charge, but make sure you present your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you have one (see more information on this page for EU citizens).

Find a GP practice in your area

Hospital services

Hospital treatment is free to people who are "ordinarily resident" in the UK.

To be considered ordinarily resident and entitled to free hospital treatment, you must be living in the UK on a lawful and properly settled basis for the time being. You may be asked to prove this.

You cannot be considered ordinarily resident in the UK unless you have indefinite leave to remain or status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

If you're a visitor from the EU, even if you're a former UK resident, you can use your EHIC, PRC or S2 when visiting the UK. If you cannot provide these documents, you may be charged for your care.

If you're a visitor from Norway, you can get medically necessary healthcare using your Norwegian passport.

If you’re a visitor from Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland whose visit to the UK began on or before 31 December 2020, you may continue to use your EHIC or PRC in the UK for the duration of your visit. You also may complete planned treatment using your S2, as long as authorisation for this was requested from the relevant health authority before 31 December 2020.

If you're visiting from Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland you may be charged for NHS healthcare. You should check with the relevant health authority where you live before travelling to the UK.

If you're visiting England for more than 6 months, you'll need to pay the immigration health surcharge, unless you're exempt from paying it. The full amount will be paid upfront for the duration of your visa.

Find out about accessing healthcare services if you're moving to England from outside the European Economic Area (EEA)

Find out about paying for for UK healthcare as part of your immigration application on GOV.UK

If you've paid the surcharge or are exempt from paying it, and your visa allows you to be here for more than 6 months, you'll be entitled to free NHS hospital treatment in England on a similar basis to an ordinarily resident person, with the exception of NHS-funded assisted conception services. Your entitlement will apply from the date your visa is granted until it expires. You'll have to pay some charges, such as prescription or dental charges.

If you're visiting England for less than 6 months, you should ensure you're covered for healthcare through personal medical insurance during your visit, even if you're a former UK resident. If you're not ordinarily resident in the UK and you need to pay for NHS hospital treatment, you'll be charged at 150% of the national NHS rate.

Services that are free to everyone

Some services or treatments carried out in an NHS hospital are exempt from charges, so they're free to all.

These include:

• A&E services – not including emergency treatment if admitted to hospital
• family planning services – this does not include abortions or infertility treatment
• treatment for most infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• treatment required for a physical or mental condition caused by torture, female genital mutilation (FGM) , domestic violence or sexual violence – this does not apply if you have come to England to seek this treatment

Find out more

• GP referrals for non-emergency hospital treatment
• Hospital services in England
• Find a hospital in your area
• GOV.UK: ways in which people can be lawfully resident in the UK

Page last reviewed: 25 April 2023 Next review due: 25 April 2026

United Kingdom Travel Insurance

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to the united kingdom, how does travel insurance work in the uk, do i need travel insurance for the united kingdom, how much does travel insurance cost for the united kingdom, our suggested axa travel protection plan , traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , does the uk have any covid-19 restrictions for u.s. visitors, do you need car insurance to drive in the uk, are there any other requirements for traveling to the uk.

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.  AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind. 

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for the United Kingdom.

Picture this: You've planned a scenic road trip through the Scottish Highlands, a land of misty glens and ancient castles. You stumble upon the enchanting Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. Imagine, a misstep on the slippery terrain, and suddenly you've got a sprained ankle, not the souvenir you had in mind. With AXA Travel Protection, you receive access to our 24/7 emergency hotline.  Speak to a licensed multilingual travel assistance agent, they can help assist and direct emergency transportation if necessary to your location. With an AXA Travel Protection plan, we are here to assist and support you whenever and wherever you may be. Here’s the entire list of benefits travelers can have access to with an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:  

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Americans aren't required to purchase domestic or international travel insurance to visit the United Kingdom. But it’s still highly recommended that you have a travel insurance plan before embarking on your next trip. 

Why? There are several reasons:

Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in New York, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs.

In general, travel insurance to the United Kingdom costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to the United Kingdom will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan ,  Gold Plan , and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that United Kingdom hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.  

The Platinum Plan  is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the United Kingdom experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring the United Kingdom's stunning landscapes in a rental car. 

Additionally, part of the Platinum Plan is the " Lost Skier Days " benefit, offering potential reimbursement if ski resorts unexpectedly close due to ever-changing snow conditions. These perks make the Platinum Plan an excellent option for anyone seeking comprehensive protection during their exciting United Kingdom adventures. 

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plan with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation. 

American visitors can breathe a sigh of relief that the UK no longer has any COVID-19 restrictions for visitors coming from the United States. You do not need to fret over getting a COVID test or submit proof of vaccination upon arrival in the UK. 

It’s illegal to drive in the UK without vehicle insurance. This also applies to those driving on an international license, even if it’s only for a brief period. If you are renting a car, however, we strongly recommend you purchase rental car insurance. AXA Travel Protection can help you with that by offering Rental Car Insurance (Collision Damage Waiver.)  This coverage provides extra coverage for your rental car against damage and theft.

American citizens are considered non-visa nationals in the UK. Therefore, they neither require a visa (for short-term travel) nor need to fulfill any other conditions to visit and travel across the UK.

UK Travel Insurance FAQs

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight.

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) 

AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit.

2. Do Americans need travel insurance for the UK?

UK law doesn’t require U.S. citizens visiting the UK for a short time (up to six months) to carry travel insurance. However, carrying international travel insurance for the United Kingdom for unforeseen events is a good idea.

3. What is needed to visit the United Kingdom from the USA?

U.S. citizens only need a passport and a ticket to travel to the UK. The passport must have at least one empty page and validity for the duration of your trip.

4. What happens if a tourist gets sick in the United Kingdom?

The UK has a National Health System (NHS) that provides medical care nationwide.  If a tourist gets sick in the UK, they can get medical care from an NHS center.  However, it’s important to note that while the NHS services are free for the locals, tourists are charged about 150 percent of the cost of their treatment.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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Best travel insurance UK 2024 guide

We all deserve a break now and then. And the last thing you want to think of when booking your holiday is something going wrong. But it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. That’s why you should always consider travel insurance when going on a trip.

But how can you find the best travel insurance policy for your needs? Read our guide below to find out more.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance protects you financially if your trip away doesn’t go as planned and you incur unexpected expenses for delays, losses or medical treatment.

All travellers can benefit from travel insurance. But travel insurance is particularly important if you are going on an independent trip without a tour operator, because if something goes wrong, you will have no other help.

There are three main types of travel insurance:

• Single-trip cover: this is the most typical form of travel insurance, covering you for a one-off trip or holiday. There will be a time limit on the cover that can range anywhere between one month and 365 days
• Annual multi-trip cover: this allows you to make multiple trips, or have multiple holidays, in a 12-month period, all under the same travel insurance policy. There may be a cap on how long each individual trip can be
• Long stay, or backpacker, cover: this is normally used for around the world trips, gap years, and longer cruises, and can last for up to 18 months

To find the best UK travel insurance, compare policies before you go to ensure you get the right coverage for you and the specific trip you’re planning.

How to find the best travel insurance policy

When comparing policies to find the best travel insurance for your trip, you should consider: 

• Type of cover you need
• Excess (how much you’ll be expected to pay out yourself before the policy will cover you)
• Amount of medical coverage, and why pre-existing conditions aren’t included
• Limit on baggage claims
• Coverage for specific sports and activities
• Any potential rewards and discounts
• Add-ons, such as gadget insurance

Best travel insurance deals and discounts

Looking for the best travel insurance deals from the best travel insurance companies? In most cases, the easiest way to find the best travel insurance deals is to use a comparison website. Travel insurance comparison websites let you compare costs and coverage side by side to find the best UK travel insurance.

The four main comparison websites – Moneysupermarket, Comparethemarket, Confused.com and GoCompare – also often have certain deals and discounts when you buy travel insurance from them, offering some of the best travel insurance deals on the market.

Moneysupermarket : Find the same deal for less, and it will price match and give you a choice of a £20 gift card. Only on annual travel insurance.

Comparethemarket : Two for one cinema tickets with Meerkat Movies and savings at restaurants when you dine out or order pizza in with Meerkat Meals, as well as 25 per cent off coffee and pastries at Caffè Nero every day of the week through the Meerkat app.

(In November 2023, Confused.com and GoCompare had no deals or discounts for travel insurance).

Price is obviously a big consideration when you are looking for the best travel insurance – you’ve probably already spent a lot on your holiday. But you may be able to get much better coverage for just a few pounds extra, so it’s worth scrolling down the comparison site’s list of providers before buying.

Medical costs abroad will undoubtedly be the biggest expense you face if you fall ill abroad, so don’t scrimp on those.

Then think about your next biggest expense (probably cancellation/interruption of your trip) and make sure that you have high-value coverage for that.

If you find you can get much higher coverage (the maximum amount you can claim per type of claim, such as medical or baggage) for not very much more money, go for the slightly more expensive option.

Going direct

Comparison sites won’t always find you the cheapest deals, however. For example, Direct Line offers some of the best travel insurance with Covid cover and is not on comparison websites.

Some of the best travel insurance companies also offer discounts for buying directly from them, as follows:

Bundled coverage options

When looking for the best travel insurance for your holiday, it can make sense to buy a bundle of coverage under one policy.

Comparison websites will often offer add-on gadget cover, winter sports cover or cruise cover all under the one policy. If you need that extra cover, it is typically cheaper to buy your travel insurance this way rather than as separate policies.

What is covered by travel insurance?

The best travel insurance companies will offer you comprehensive coverage across all types of claims. It’s easy to compare the best travel insurance deals using a comparison website.

Medical coverage

This covers you for medical expenses you incur if you become ill or have an accident while away. The best UK travel insurance will have a high level of medical coverage.

For example, medical coverage will pay for any necessary treatment if you come down with severe food poisoning or you fall through a window and have to be taken to hospital in an ambulance.

• Avoid hefty bills or debt for medical assistance outside the UK
• Access better treatment – for example, at private vs public hospitals
• Often, as long as you declare existing conditions or pending treatment or tests, you are covered if you fall ill during your trip (check policy exclusions)
• Even the best travel insurance companies will likely charge you more if you have a pre-existing medical condition
• You might have to pay part or all your medical expenses first, then claim on the policy afterwards
• Even the best travel insurance companies do not cover events that happen after you have consumed alcohol excessively or taken recreational drugs or other substances

Trip cancellation/interruption

This insurance pays out the cost of your missed trip if you have to cancel or cut your holiday short due to unforeseen circumstances.

For example, cancellation insurance would normally pay out if you broke your leg just before you were due to travel and had to cancel your trip.

Interruption insurance would cover you if you had to come home early for certain reasons beyond your control – for example, if the area you were staying in was engulfed in wildfires.

• Money you would have lost on pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses is paid to you under the policy
• It can be especially valuable if the trip you are planning is very expensive, as this is money you would lose if you couldn’t go
• You’ll usually only be covered if your trip is cancelled or cut short for specific reasons listed in your policy
• You usually won’t be covered if you miss your flight because you are held by customs or cancel because of a work issue or a pre-existing medical condition that is not covered

Baggage cover

This insurance covers the cost of replacing your luggage if it is lost or stolen.

For example, if an airline loses your luggage in transit or your suitcase is stolen from your hostel while you’re away, you can make a claim for the cost of replacing its contents.

You may also be able to claim for costs related to baggage delay if the airline temporarily misplaced your baggage.

• You can claim for the actual cash value of your belongings or the cost of replacing them (whichever is less)
• High-value items, such as jewellery or sports equipment, can be very expensive to replace without travel insurance
• Standard policies usually place per item and total limits on claims.
• If you are taking very expensive items away, check your policy carefully to ensure that you’re covered (and potentially get a separate policy)
• Some items could be covered by your home insurance policy, so check your policy carefully to see what is any isn’t. It’s also important to note that, should a lost item be covered by both policies, you can only claim once; an attempt to claim twice would be considered fraud

Personal liability

This insurance covers you if you are held responsible for harming another person or damaging their property.

For example, it covers you in situations where you cause serious damage to your holiday accommodation or accidentally stumble into someone else, causing them to need medical treatment.

• The cost of defending yourself in a legal case or repairing/replacing damage could be extremely costly without travel insurance
• Your travel insurance company will take over dealing with a foreign legal system
• You’re covered for the cost of any compensation (up to certain limits)

Limits: 

• Not all travel insurance provides personal liability as standard
• Policies may exclude personal liability while you partake in adventure activities
• Claims related to you committing a crime or damage by wilful negligence won’t be covered
• You likely will not be covered if you admit liability or make an offer to pay before talking to your insurer

Finding the best travel insurance with Covid cover

Looking for the best travel insurance with Covid cover? Many travel insurance policies now include cancellation cover for reasons related to Covid. This often applies within two weeks of being due to travel, according to the Association of British Insurers, but individual policies can vary.

To make a claim, insurers often require proof in the form of a medically approved positive Covid test. A lateral flow test or self-diagnosis is usually not accepted.

What Covid-related cover to look for

The best travel insurance with Covid cover should include the following:

• Cover if you can’t start your trip because you tested positive for Covid before travelling
• Cover if you or family members cannot return home because you/they test positive for Covid during the holiday
• Cover for additional costs, such as alternative flights, accommodation and Covid tests
• Cover if you cannot reach your final destination during transit due to Covid-19

Travel insurance providers with comprehensive Covid cover

Looking for the best travel insurance providers with Covid cover? Most travel insurance policies now offer some kind of Covid cover, but Churchill, Direct Line, M&S and Aviva have some of the most comprehensive offerings, with cover for cancellations and expenses related to Covid.

• Covid covered as standard on travel insurance policies
• Cover for trip cancellations if you, a close relative or a travelling companion is diagnosed with Covid-19 or another pandemic disease
• Cover if you or a person you’re planning to stay with must quarantine (abroad or in the UK)
• Cover if you can’t use pre-booked and pre-paid accommodation affected by Covid-19
• Cover for quarantine or where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against travel within 28 days of departure
• Cover for emergency medical expenses abroad due to Covid-19

Direct Line

• Cover for travel to a destination where the FCDO is advising against all but essential travel 
• Cover for medical expenses if you catch Covid-19 while you’re away 
• Cover for additional accommodation and transport if you have to quarantine due to Covid
• Cover for cancellation costs if you or a close relative get Covid-19 before you go
• Cover for quarantine or if the FCDO changes its advice after you book your trip
• Cover if you have to cut your trip short if the FCDO changes its country advice unexpectedly

• Cover for emergency medical expenses if you catch Covid-19 during your trip
• Cover for unrecoverable costs up to £6,000 if you must cancel your trip or return early, including if you have to self-isolate or quarantine before you travel due to Covid-19
• Cover for if you need to cancel your trip due to a positive Covid-19 test or if the FCDO advise against travel to your destination in the 31 days leading up to your trip
• Providing you haven’t travelled against FCDO advice, you’ll also be covered if you catch Covid-19 while abroad

• Coverage of up to £5,000 per person if you must cancel your trip due to getting Covid (you’ll need to provide confirmation and evidence of a positive test result)
• Cover for Covid-related emergency medical treatment and expenses while away
• Cover if you unexpectedly need to quarantine, including extra travel and accommodation costs to get home (provided a return trip was booked) 
• Cover for costs for any accommodation and excursions unused due to getting Covid where the costs can’t be recovered elsewhere
• No cover you if you travel against FCDO advice*
• No cover if you can’t travel because you don’t meet the entry requirements of a country (such as having had Covid vaccinations)*

* It’s worth noting that these clauses are not unusual and the majority of providers will have something similar

Tips for selecting the best UK travel insurance packages

Need some help picking the best UK travel insurance packages to make sure that you get the best travel insurance deals? Here are some tips for picking the best policy features for you.

Coverage limits

When looking for the best travel insurance companies to go with, check coverage limits. These are the maximum amounts your travel insurer will pay if you need to claim. You’ll see when you compare travel insurance policies that coverage limits vary for each type of claim and between policies.

The government-backed MoneyHelper website recommends that the best UK travel insurance should have the following minimum coverage for each type of claim:

• Medical: £1m or more for travel to Europe and £2m or more for the US
• Cancellation/interruption: £2,000 or more
• Missed departure: £500 or more
• Delay: £200 or more
• Baggage cover: £1,500 or more
• Personal liability cover: £2 million or more

Deductibles/excess

Deductibles, also known as the excess, is the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket before your travel insurance will start paying for your claim.

You have to make a trade-off when it comes to choosing the excess and the best travel insurance policy for you.

The lower the excess on a travel insurance policy, the better for you if you have to claim because you will have less to pay from your own pocket (or, more often, deducted from your claim).

But lower excess travel insurance policies are more expensive because the insurer knows it has more to pay out if you claim. Higher excess policies are cheaper, but you’ll have more deducted from your claim.

An exclusion on a travel insurance policy is an event the policy will not cover you for.

Common exclusions on a standard travel insurance policy may not be obvious. According to the ABTA – The Travel Association, these include:

• Incidents that occur after drinking too much alcohol or taking drugs
• Theft of unattended possessions
• Sports, extreme sports and activities such as skiing, white water rafting and bungee jumping
• Medical treatment resulting from existing medical conditions you have not declared or conditions preventable by vaccine or advisable medication, such as antimalarials
• Medical costs if you stay abroad after your doctor says you are fit to return to the UK
• Strikes and industrial action if it was known when you booked your trip
• Rescheduled flights where the airline has cancelled and then rescheduled your flight
• Travel to destinations where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel

To get the best travel insurance deals, one way around some of these exclusions is to buy add-ons for adventure activities. In addition, make sure to declare all pre-existing conditions and keep an eye out for any travel disruptions before you book.

Pre-existing conditions

Pre-existing conditions are illnesses or medical conditions you have and are aware of before you travel.

Travel insurance companies will ask you to disclose any pre-existing conditions. If you use a comparison website, it will be among the first questions you’re asked before it shows you quotes. It’s important to be honest.

Some travel insurance companies, but not all, will offer cover for pre-existing medical conditions, while others will offer cover but exclude any claims arising from that medical condition. This will depend on the person being covered and the medical condition.

Most price comparison websites include an option to show insurers who do offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, so that would be a good place to start.

The following are likely to be considered pre-existing conditions you should disclose, according to the government-backed MoneyHelper website:

• A condition where you are on a list for an operation
• A condition where you are waiting for test results
• Anything you have been to the doctor about in the last year, including minor things
• Any serious conditions you’ve ever had – for example, cancer, heart trouble, respiratory problems or a mental health breakdown

A good tip for everyone, but especially if you have a pre-existing condition, is to buy your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday. If your condition gets worse and forces you to cancel your plans, you’ll be covered from the day the policy starts.

On family group policies, the cost will be determined based on the riskiest traveller (according to insurers), which could be someone with a pre-existing condition or an older individual. In this case, it is often cheaper for the group for that person to get a separate policy.

Add-on options

Add-ons are extras you can purchase in addition to a standard travel insurance policy. They cost a bit more, but you may find you’re not covered without them. 

Gadget insurance

This covers things that a standard policy may not, such as your mobile phone or laptop. If these items are covered, you may find the claim limits are far less than the cost of replacing them.

Before you add this option to your travel insurance, check your home insurance policy, because you may already be covered.

Winter sports/adventure activities

Riskier activities, such as skiing or white water rafting, often require extra holiday insurance because insurers think that you are more likely to need to make a claim doing these things.

Winter sports/adventure activities cover is worth getting, or you may find you are not covered for medical expenses if something goes wrong.

Standard travel insurance is generally meant for land-based holidays so you’ll need to opt for a specialist cruise policy if your holiday is a cruise.

European FCDO travel advice extension

Most standard travel insurance policies are invalid if you travel when the FCDO advises against “all but essential travel”.

This add-on allows you to travel to Europe with a valid travel insurance policy, even if the FCDO has advised against it.

This can be an expensive add-on, but if you really must travel to a risky area, you will need this extension in order to make sure you have cover.

Best holiday insurance summary

Choosing the right travel insurance is an essential part of enjoying peace of mind while you are on holiday.

When looking for the best travel insurance deals, don’t just pick the cheapest policy. Instead, look for the cover limits that match your requirements. For example, baggage cover of £5,000 isn’t worth having if your baggage is worth £1,000; cancellation cover up to £10,000 isn’t worth having if your holiday cost you £2,000.

The easiest way to compare the best travel insurance is usually by using a travel insurance comparison website.

Think about the sort of activities you’ll be doing while you’re away. You may need extra holiday insurance for things such as winter sports or scuba diving or if you are going on a cruise.

Be honest about any pre-existing conditions when buying your travel insurance, or you won’t be covered if you have to claim.

The best travel insurance is a safety net for you and your family to enjoy your trip away stress-free, knowing that you’re covered for everything from medical expenses to cancellations if things go wrong.

Frequently asked questions about the best travel insurance UK packages

Is travel insurance necessary for domestic travel within the uk.

Even where medical costs in the UK are covered by the NHS, a sudden illness could lead to other expenses, forcing you to cancel your trip, the costs of which travel insurance would cover.

Lost or stolen luggage and broken gadgets or other claims for damage can just as easily occur in the UK as abroad.

What is annual travel insurance, and is it a good option for frequent travellers?

Annual travel insurance is a policy that covers you for multiple trips away within any 12-month period. It is often cheaper than buying a separate policy for each trip if you are planning to go away multiple times in one year.

Annual travel insurance is also useful if you are planning a long trip visiting several countries, as often insurers require you to buy travel insurance before you leave the UK rather than abroad mid-trip.

Are there any travel insurance companies that specialise in certain types of trips or travellers?

Specialist travel insurers cater to specific groups of people. It can make sense to seek out travel insurers that cover your needs.

Adventures Insurance, Sports Cover Direct and Snowcard tailor their travel insurance to those who enjoy activity holidays and extreme sports, for example.

Senior travellers are the focus of policies from All Clear, Avanti, Co-op Insurance Services, Free Spirit Flex, Good 2 Go Extra, Goodtogo Insurance, Saga, Staysure and Total Travel Protection.

Insurers offering business trip cover include Allianz, Direct Line, Coverwise and Insure & Go.

How do I make a claim with my travel insurance company?

To claim on your travel insurance while you are away, make sure that you take your policy number with you and the emergency number for your insurer. If you are travelling abroad, take any international numbers too.

Call your insurer as soon as you realise you need to make a claim. Keep all receipts and medical expense forms. If you are travelling with other people, make them aware of your policy details and the insurer’s phone number in case they need to call on your behalf.

To make a claim when you return home, check the following:

• You haven’t left it too late to make a claim
• What you’re claiming for is covered
• The excess is not more than the value of your claim (if so, it’s not worth claiming)

Notify your insurer as soon as possible for a claim form, send it back fast and keep a copy of it. You should also include copies of paperwork to support your claim, such as receipts or medical certificates (keep copies of the originals in case your claim is queried or refused).

Laura Miller

Laura Miller is a freelance journalist, editor, and producer. She has a wealth of consumer finance experience, having written about money matters and business for over 15 years.

During her tenure as a freelance writer, she has worked for ITN, Wired, and The Sunday Times, as well as financial institutions such as Aegon, the Chartered Insurance Institute, and Pension Bee, where she’s presenter of the Pension Confident Podcast.

Laura has previously held roles at The Times, where she was the Acting Editor of Times Money Mentor, The Telegraph as a senior finance reporter and was the co-host of the It’s Your Money Podcast, which was renowned for making complex finance issues accessible, and The Financial Times, where she worked as a News Editor. Laura has also worked at CNN, Politics.co.uk, and as a producer at Radio 5 Live.

Connor Campbell

Connor Campbell is an experienced personal and business finance writer who has been producing online content for almost a decade. 

Connor is the personal finance expert for Independent Advisor, guiding readers through everything they need to know about car insurance and home insurance. From how much it costs to the best insurance providers in the UK, he’s here to help you find the right policy for your needs. 

In his capacity as writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet , Connor explored a number of topics close to his heart, such as the impact of our increasingly cashless society, and the hardships and heroics of British entrepreneurs. His commentary was featured in sites such as The Mirror , the Daily Express and Business Insider . 

At financial trading firm Spreadex, meanwhile, his market commentary was featured in outlets such as The Guardian , BBC , Reuters and the Evening Standard . 

Connor is a voracious reader with an MA in English, and is dedicated to making life’s financial decisions a little bit easier by doing away with jargon and needless complexity.

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Travel Insurance with Medical Travel Compared

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Taking more than one or two holidays a year? Compare annual multi-trip travel insurance from over 30 specialist insurers and save money whilst having peace of mind whilst you travel.

Pre-existing Conditions

Save time and money on travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. Use our comparison tool to compare medical travel insurance cover.

Senior Travel Insurance

Whatever your age, we're here to ensure you enjoy your future holidays - with the right travel insurance cover! Compare holiday insurance from specialists now.

Travel Insurance for Cruises

If you're taking to the high seas for an adventure, make sure your policy includes specialist cover for cruises. Start your travel insurance comparison today.

Coronavirus Travel Insurance

Find out what cover is available to protect you and your holiday by getting insurance that covers cancellations and complications linked to COVID-19 through Medical Travel Compared.

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Foreign travel insurance

If you’re travelling abroad, it's important to take out appropriate travel insurance before you go.

If you travel internationally you should buy appropriate travel insurance before you go. If you already have a travel insurance policy, check what cover it provides for coronavirus-related events, including medical treatment and travel disruption, and any planned activities such as adventure sports. If you are choosing a new policy, make sure you check how it covers these issues.

If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.

For example:

You should buy your travel insurance as soon as possible after booking your trip. Read the small print, and familiarise yourself with any exclusion clauses for the policy.

When you travel, make sure you take your insurance policy details with you, including the policy number and your insurer’s emergency assistance telephone number. Share your policy details with people you’re travelling with and friends or family at home, in case they need to contact your insurance company on your behalf.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) represents over 200 insurance companies. Read ABI’s advice on travel insurance , including how COVID-19 can affect it, and their guide on choosing the right travel insurance policy .

In addition to making sure you have appropriate insurance, you should check and sign up to travel advice for your destination.

What to consider when you buy travel insurance for you and your family

• emergency treatment and hospital bills can be expensive. Check whether your policy covers treatment in public or private hospitals
• emergency transport, such as an ambulance, is often charged separately to other medical expenses, and emergency travel home on medical grounds can also be expensive
• pre-existing medical conditions: declare existing conditions or pending treatment or tests so that you are covered if anyone gets ill during your trip. Failing to declare something may invalidate your travel insurance
• all activities you may undertake on holiday, such as sports or adventure tourism (you may need specialist insurance for some activities). Also consider all the places you intend to visit, even if you are in transit, in case anyone needs emergency treatment in another country
• cruises generally require an additional level of cover because it is more difficult to get to hospital for treatment. Check the booking conditions of the operator you plan to sail with
• repatriation costs if you or a family member die abroad
• getting home after medical treatment if you cannot use your original ticket
• reasonable costs for a family member or friend to stay with you, or travel out to accompany you home, if required
• 24-hour assistance helplines to offer support and advice about appropriate treatment
• COVID 19 cover for if you or family members cannot return home because you/they test positive for COVID during your travel. Check your insurance covers additional costs such as alternative flights, accommodation and COVID tests. You should also check your insurance provides cover if you cannot reach your final destination during transit due to COVID-19
• within Europe, some insurers may waive any excess on medical treatment if you use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Check the terms of your policy or contact your insurer to see if this is the case. EHIC and GHIC allow you to access state-provided medically necessary healthcare within the EU and Switzerland on the same terms as residents of these countries. Note that EHIC and GHIC are not alternatives to travel insurance as they do not cover any private medical healthcare costs, repatriation or additional costs such as mountain rescue in ski resorts. Find out more about the EHIC and GHIC, including how to apply for one free of charge
• ATOL is a consumer protection scheme for air holidays and flights, managed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) . Some insurance policies do not provide cover for when airlines or suppliers go out of business. Choose an ATOL-protected holiday or a travel insurance policy that includes airline or supplier failure cover

Policy exclusions

Check how an insurance policy covers:

• alcohol and drugs: most travel insurance policies do not cover events that happen after you have drunk excessive alcohol or taken recreational drugs or other substances
• high risk destinations: many travel insurance policies will not cover travel to a high risk destination where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel or all travel. Check your policy wording and the relevant country travel advice pages before booking your trip and buying insurance
• mental health conditions: some policies may exclude cover for treatment related to a pre-existing mental health condition. For more guidance see foreign travel advice for people with mental health issues
• age restrictions: check whether there are any age-related restrictions if you are buying an annual policy. The Money Advice Service provides guidance on how to choose the right level of cover, get the best deal, and make a travel insurance claim. It also has specific guidance for travellers over the age of 65 or with pre-existing medical conditions
• sports such as bungee jumping, jet skiing, winter sports or skydiving: these are not usually included in standard policies. Use of quad bikes and hire of mopeds is also usually not covered
• driving overseas: check Driving abroad . If you’re hiring a car, check what cover the hire company provides. If you are driving your own vehicle, check your motor insurance policy to see what it covers
• terrorist acts: most policies offer only limited cover for terrorist acts. As a minimum, make sure your policy covers you for emergency medical expenses and travel home if you are caught up in a terrorist attack. Some travel insurers offer policy add-ons to provide additional cover if there is a terrorist attack in your destination. This may include cancellation cover, if your destination is affected by a terrorist attack before your trip and you decide you no longer wish to travel
• other incidents: some policies only offer limited cover for claims related to or caused by a natural disaster (such as an earthquake or tropical cyclone) or civil unrest. You may also not be covered for some claims that arise from an incident (such as strikes or other industrial action) that was known publicly when you booked your trip and/or bought your travel insurance policy

Insurance for extended periods of travel

‘Long-stay’ travel insurance can cover extended periods of continuous travel. Check carefully the maximum duration allowed in any policy you consider buying to ensure that it meets your needs.

Make sure that the entire policy meets your needs, including specific activities and work (paid or unpaid) you may undertake.

Insurance if you live abroad or go for work or study

Travel insurance is not intended for permanent residence abroad. If you live overseas, or you’re planning to move to a different country to live, work or study, you should consider your insurance needs carefully. Local law may require you to have medical insurance, including as part of a visa application.

Read the healthcare guidance in the Living in guide for the country where you live to ensure you have the right healthcare arrangements for your circumstances.

You can buy private medical insurance for UK expatriates. You can also buy insurance from local providers overseas. You should always check policies carefully, including seeing whether you could transfer medical cover if you re-locate to other countries in future.

Support for British nationals abroad

Support for British Nationals Abroad explains how the FCDO can provide support to British nationals if things go wrong abroad.

Reviewed and updated guidance in full.

Updated guidance on using an EHIC or GHIC to access healthcare in Switzerland.

Updated to reflect new rules for travelling to amber list countries.

Updated COVID-19 section on new rules for international travel from 17 May.

Updated to reflect current COVID-19 travel guidance

New link to the declaration form for international travel (for England), from 8 March.

Edited grey box at top of page to provide further information on requirements coming into affect from 15 February

From 15 February you will need to quarantine in a government-approved hotel if you arrive in the UK from countries on the travel ban list.

Updated with new requirements coming into effect from 4am on 18 January 2021.

Updated with information on pre-departure testing for everyone travelling into England and Scotland.

Updated to reflect latest UK COVID-19 restrictions.

Updated the section on travel to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, to reflect changes from 1 January 2021.

Updated ‘Travel to the EU’ section to reflect that UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) will still be accepted in EU countries, with different guidance for people travelling to Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland from 1 January 2021.

Updated COVID-19 travel guidance

Updated to reflect the latest Tier-based COVID-19 rules for England

Updated to reflect the 5 November national restrictions for England relating to travel

Updated EU travel section with information on EHIC validity

New information on making sure your travel insurance covers you for coronavirus-related events

Update to contents including addition of new segments; travel insurance after starting travel or changing your plans, making a travel insurance claim, other financial protection and if you’re not covered.

Added information on financial protection of package holidays.

Information on the use of European Health Insurance cards (EHIC) in the event of a no deal added to the EU Exit update section

EU Exit update with advice on checking insurance coverage when travelling to Europe after the UK leaves the EU.

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Inclusion of Association of Travel Insurance Intermediaries (ATII) information.

Updated information on travel insurance

First published.

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We know how important holidays are, and how important Travel Insurance can be if you need it – especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

That’s why we are dedicated to helping you find the right Travel Insurance policy, with the right support – just in case the unexpected happens. So whether it’s a well-deserved week in the sun or a round the world cruise, we’ve got you covered.

We know that every traveller and every holiday is different – that’s why we work with a number of insurers, many with no age limit, to help you find cover that is tailored to your own needs, whether you’re 18 or 80 and wherever you’re going next.

Single Trip

Get insured quickly and easily for a one-off trip up to 365 days, starting any time in the next 18 months – including cover for Coronavirus . Whether you’re planning a staycation, a week in sizzling sunshine or a long stay overseas, our single trip policies have no age limit so make sure you’re protected with the right Travel Insurance .

Annual Multi Trip

If you are planning to travel more than once a year, then taking annual multi trip Travel Insurance could save you money. You can cover yourself or the whole family on an annual policy, so get the flexibility to travel where you want, when you want and as often as you want without worrying about arranging cover every time you go.

We know it’s not nice to think about something going wrong on your cruise, but that’s what Insurance is for. Get peace of mind while you’re at sea with our specialist cruise Travel Insurance , including missed port departure, cabin confinement and cruise interruption cover. All ages and pre-existing medical conditions considered.

Pre-existing

Did you know the majority of Travel Insurance claims are paid to support people in need of emergency medical treatment abroad and that the average claim is more than £1,300? We work with a number of insurers specialising in cover for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions so you can travel with peace of mind .

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Visitors to the United Kingdom

Uk travel insurance and safety tips for visitors.

The weather is another consideration. Unless your travel is confined strictly to the summer months, plan on encountering low temperatures, and even if you are traveling in the summer, you shouldn’t count on it being warm and sunny. In Edinburgh, the average daily July temperature doesn’t break 15°C (60°F), and at night the July average drops to 11°C (52°F), hardly tank tops and shorts weather.

From the mysterious magic of Stonehenge to the sparkle of the crown jewels, the United Kingdom offers something for everyone. Totaling less than 100,000 square miles, and with London just a three-hour train ride from Paris, the UK offers a wide variety of cultures, experiences, and even languages within its borders, encompassing Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England . Be assured speaking English will undoubtedly suffice for travelers and those visiting the UK.

However short your visit is, you should count on having rain and damp weather. Having good rain gear in your luggage ensures you have the most enjoyable stay. Of course, we suggest tourists also have a good UK travel insurance plan before departure. What else should you know to make sure that your stay in the UK is healthy and safe so you can fully enjoy your time there? Let’s take a closer look.

Best Travel Insurance for Visitors to the United Kingdom

For tourists and visitors to the UK who are looking for a travel insurance plan, including coverage for trip interruption, evacuation, and repatriation benefits, consider the Atlas Travel Medical Plan , offering high-quality coverage at an affordable price, or the Patriot Travel Insurance  plan.

• Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
• Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
• Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
• 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance

• Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
• IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
• Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest

Best Travel Insurance for US Citizens Visiting UK

For US citizens traveling to the UK, we recommend the GeoBlue Travel Insurance plan while visiting the United Kingdom. GeoBlue offers great service with a premium network of hospitals and doctors worldwide. If you have a US health insurance plan, some pre-existing conditions will be covered in the UK or any country you travel to.

GeoBlue Voyager Plan

• For U.S. citizens up to age 95
• Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
• 24/7/365 service and assistance

Embassy Phone Numbers in the UK

• United States: +44 20 7499 9000
• Canada: +44 20 7004 6000
• Australia: +44 20 7379 4334
• New Zealand: +44 20 7930 8422

All embassies are located in London, but larger cities such as Belfast and Edinburgh are likely to host a consulate which can be a valuable resource if you are located closer to one of these cities.

Essential Safety Tips for Visitors to the UK

The United Kingdom has a reputation as a safe place for travelers. However, usual precautions should be taken, especially when traveling and living in large cities where thefts, muggings, and sexual assaults do occur. It’s a good idea not to carry too much cash or valuables as you move about and to keep secure copies of important documents such as passports and credit cards. When going out for an evening, do not leave drinks unattended.

Unfortunately, terrorism remains a threat in the United Kingdom; the Canadian government advises a “high degree of caution”. The UK has placed its current threat level at severe. You can check the latest UK threat level here , and U.S. Citizens can enroll in the STEP program to receive the latest warnings and updates from the State Department. General advice for staying safe in the face of this danger includes monitoring local news, familiarizing yourself with the area, keeping the contact information for your embassy, and, for those who are visiting on a longer stay, registering with your embassy.

Emergency Assistance Numbers in the UK

Two emergency numbers in the UK will connect you with all emergency services, including ambulance, fire, and police. Both 999 and the more universal European 112 will work and function similarly to how 911 operates in the United States.

Another helpful number to have is 0845 4647  or  111, a non-emergency number that will connect you to the National Health Services, where a trained professional can help you assess your symptoms to help you decide where to seek help best.

For those staying in a residence or rental property, either as a long-term or short-term rental, it’s a good idea to have the gas emergency number: 0800 111 999 .

United Kingdom: Healthcare System and Types of Insurance

The United Kingdom provides healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents through the publicly funded National Health System (NHS). For those who do not meet the requirements to qualify for NHS coverage, it will be necessary to acquire private insurance. This is available both within the UK and can be purchased through services specifically designed for travelers and expats. While healthcare in the UK regularly receives high marks in the area of quality, the NHS has been criticized for accessibility and speed with which services are provided, causing some who have access to NHS to opt to buy additional private insurance to ensure that their health care needs are fully met. As you look through your healthcare options, this should be an important consideration for you. The NHS is so large that even private insurance services are often provided within the framework of the public system. The insurance options that you choose must provide adequate coverage that will meet your healthcare needs with the speed and efficiency with which you feel comfortable.

Related: Health Insurance for Expats in the UK

• HealthCare in the UK (Wikipedia)
• Best Hospitals in the UK For Expatriates and Travelers

The United Kingdom is currently leaving the European Union. As a result, for those who are not UK residents but are EU residents, it’s important to call your current insurance provider and find out about any changes to the benefits that you would receive while traveling and living in the UK. As this is a shifting situation, getting the most up-to-date information is best.

Vaccines, Medications, and Diet Considerations for Visiting the UK

Food and clean water are readily available throughout the United Kingdom. Even those requiring a special diet, such as for diabetes or Celiac disease, can look forward to being able to find specialty foods available. Those who follow a vegan diet should expect to have a similar time as they do at home. In larger cities like London, finding markets and restaurants that cater to their diet will be much easier than in rural areas. The UK food labeling does not require as extensive labeling as the United States, but any information must be accurate and is monitored by the government.

A wide variety of prescription medications are available. You should bring a large supply of any medications you use, along with a copy of prescriptions. If there is a medication you think you may need during your stay in the UK, it’s a good idea to make sure that it is available and what name it is sold under.

You do not need any special vaccinations as a precaution to protect your health during your UK visit; however, to secure a Visa, you will need to be able to prove that all of your basic vaccinations are present and up-to-date, including polio and MMR.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for a UK Visa Application

Do us citizens need a visa to visit the uk.

Speaking of a visa, a visa is unnecessary for visitors from the United States and select other countries for tourism for up to six months.

Visa Requirements for UK Tourists from Other Countries

For longer stays or to secure work for a UK employer, then you will need a visa. You will need a valid passport to enter the country. For visitors from EU countries and Switzerland, currently, the UK is working to keep travel visa-free, but as this is an evolving situation, it’s best to check what the latest news is before you leave. Currently, both a passport and a National Identity Card can be used to gain entry. For travelers from other countries, check the  Visa and Immigration page on Gov.uk.

Advice on Insurance Required for Visas:

• Travel Insurance Plans Requirements for Your Visa
• Best Travel Insurance for the Schengen Visa

With this information, you’ll be well-prepared to take full advantage of your time in the United Kingdom. Ensuring you’ll have a healthy and safe stay means you’ll be able to make the most of your time there, for work or pleasure or both.

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Searching Money Mentor . . .

The best travel insurance providers.

Updated March 26, 2024

In this guide

If you’re looking to escape the UK winter, or if you’re saving your holiday for the height of summer, you may wish to consider travel insurance. We explain what travel insurance is and some of the best policies on the market for your holiday.

In 2022, UK residents made 71 million visits abroad. This was over three times the amount made in 2021, when COVID restrictions kept many people at home. 

So if you’re part of a growing number of people spending time abroad, have you considered travel insurance? By taking out one of these policies you could be protected for lost baggage, delayed flights, and medical emergencies abroad among other unforeseen events.  

In this article we explain:

• What is travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover?

The best travel insurance.

• Travel insurance and medical conditions

Read more: Passport renewal costs and waiting times

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance covers the cost of unforeseen events and mishaps that either stop you from going on holiday or affect you while you’re away.

Depending on the policy, travel insurance might cover you for:

• Medical bills if you suffer illness or have an accident while you’re away
• Cancellation of your trip for reasons outside of your control
• Lost or stolen baggage

Policies are usually relatively inexpensive and can give you the peace of mind that your costs will be covered if something bad happens while you are on holiday.

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), a trade body, the average claim on travel insurance in 2022 was a little over £970. So while travel insurance won’t stop bad things from happening, but it can prevent you from having to find the money to pay for unexpected costs even after you return from your holiday.

Read more: Ten budget travel tips

Many people opt to take out travel insurance to cover potential medical care while away.

Every week, 3,000 Brits need emergency medical treatment while abroad, according to the ABI. But travel insurance isn’t just about covering medical costs. It can protect you against a range of unplanned events:

• Cancellation or trip interruption for reasons outside your control
• Missed transport or delayed departure for reasons outside your control
• Personal injury and death, including medical evacuation
• Lost, stolen or damaged items, including baggage, passports and money – check if your home contents insurance covers you
• Accidental damage or injury caused by you

Does travel insurance cover cancelled flights?

Most travel insurers provide a basic level of cover for cancelled flights. Aviva’s travel insurance, for example, will pay out if your flight is cancelled due to an airport shutdown.

If your airline cancels your flight then you should claim a refund directly with them, so your travel insurance could cover other costs such as hotel bookings, vehicle rentals, and other possible excursions.

What are my rights during strike action?

If your flights are cancelled because air staff are striking, which they have over last summer, you might be entitled to compensation from the airline. But for this to apply, customers must have been given less than 14 days’ notice.

It also depends on whether the airline was at fault or not: so if it’s the airline’s staff who are striking, you should be entitled to compensation.

If you’re worried that your flights might be delayed or cancelled, you should also check your travel insurance policy.

Some policies cover you for a cancelled or delayed flight, provided you took out the policy before the strikes were announced.

But if you haven’t yet bought your insurance, you may be out of luck. This is because most insurers won’t cover you for strikes which were already known about.

Read how travel insurance could catch you out.

Below we’ve listed some of the best travel insurance providers on the market, all of which were nominated in Times Money Mentor awards 2023.

Times Money Mentor award winning cover

Best for over-50s

Post Office

Best for those with pre-existing medical conditions

Best for those wanting substantial medical cover  

Best for a range of unique add-ons

Looking for a new holiday destination?

Make sure to visit Times Travel for your holiday inspiration this year. From palm beaches in Fiji to the beautiful Italian coastline, Times Travel caters to all different tastes. Unlike other parts of the site, you also don’t need a subscription to enjoy their high-quality content.

Another notable provider

Despite not winning a nomination at the Times Money Mentor awards, this provider also offers a decent level of cover:

Switched On

The best travel insurance for cruises.

If you’re thinking about taking a cruise, it’s important to take out special additional cover such as a cruise insurance to protect you.

Cruise insurance is normally offered as an add-on to travel policies, and protects you if you:

• Miss connections to reach the departure
• Fail to get back on board after planned stops
• End up being confined to your cabin

Though if you want a dedicated travel insurance policy for a cruise, here’s an option to consider:

Just Travel Cover*

Best for cruise holidays

The best winter sports cover

If you’re planning a skiing and snowboarding trip then it’s important you have insurance that will cover you if you’re involved in an accident on the slopes.

Most travel insurers will offer winter sports cover as an optional add-on to their regular cover and will protect you if you:

• Need to be airlifted off the slopes or rescued and need medical treatment
• Turn up and there’s no snow
• Can’t start skiing and snowboarding because of avalanche risk
• Find out your equipment – such as skis, snowboard and boots – has been stolen

It’s difficult to predict what the next ski season will look like. But if you’re booking now and want cover for the essentials, here’s a policy to factor into your calculations.

InsureandGo*

Best for winter sports

What should a basic travel policy cover?

When shopping for travel insurance, you should ensure your policy comes with the following seven things as standard:

1. Medical expenses

This covers the costs of any 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 £1 million for medical costs in Europe. This is usually £2 million in the US.

2. Repatriation

This is where you might need to be evacuated from the country you’re visiting.

Repatriation usually happens when you need to get back home to the UK in the event of a medical emergency and is usually covered as standard in most travel insurance policies.

3. Cancellation/curtailment

This covers any travel and accommodation costs you have paid for and can’t use or claim back.

You need a good reason to cancel your trip, so make sure you double check the terms and conditions of your policy.

4. Missed departure

This covers your extra accommodation costs and travel expenses should you miss your departure due to situations outside your control.

It usually includes your car breaking down or being involved in an accident. Leaving home at the last minute won’t count.

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

Choose a smooth private healthcare journey with Saga Insurance

• Easy access to a specialist

• Fast tests, scans and treatment

• Comfortable hospital stay

Get a Saga Health Insurance quote

For people over 50. Saga Health Insurance is a unique product designed by us specifically for our customers, and it’s only available through us. Together with our underwriter, Bupa Insurance Limited, we are committed to providing high standards of quality and service. 

What extra cover can you buy?

To provide a peace of mind you might be able to add the following onto 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 may wish to cover your laptop, phone, or tablet from theft or damage
• Golf equipment cover – Planning to tee off abroad? Then consider cover for moving your clubs overseas. This type of add on includes cover for your equipment if it is lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged

Read more: Is credit card travel insurance any good?

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 medical condition that means you can’t go on holiday, your insurer might not cover you for the cancellation costs.

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 then your policy won’t cover you if these items are damaged.

Each travel insurance policy will have specific things it won’t cover and this will vary depending on the provider. So it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully.

What types of travel insurance can you buy?

There are two main options to choose from when taking out a travel insurance policy:

• 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)

You need to make sure that either option of travel insurance covers you for where you are going, such as:

• Europe only
• Or the more expensive, worldwide policies (these either include or exclude the US)

But check first which exact countries providers include in their policies. For example, some policies include Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt in their Europe insurance.

There is also specific travel insurance for backpackers, which offers extra cover for those who are likely to be away for an extended period of time or travelling to multiple destinations.

Also bear in mind that if you are doing any extreme sports like skiing or going on a cruise then you might need to buy an add-on.

When should I take out travel insurance?

It’s usually best to take out travel insurance as soon as you have booked your trip.

While many people think of travel insurance as something that covers problems while they are away, some policies cover you for issues, accidents and illnesses that stop you from being able to travel.

Cancellation is one of the main reasons that people claim on a travel insurance policy. If the cancellation happens before you have bought insurance then you wouldn’t be able to claim.

How much should I pay for travel insurance?

Your travel insurance 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 likely be meaningless, so make sure to do your research and get a quote from several different providers before deciding on a policy.

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 expenses.

We’ve already listed the benefits of having protection for unexpected medical costs above, and it remains pertinent if you’re travelling abroad and won’t have access to the NHS. 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 £250,000 which was paid in full by their travel insurance provider.

Also consider that some visa applications require you to have a suitable travel insurance policy in place before you apply. If you’re applying for a Schengen visa to travel Europe you’ll need a policy in place which covers medical expenses up to €30,000 during your trip.

FAQs: Travel insurance and medical conditions

Many people solely take out travel insurance to protect themselves from medical expenses. According to the ABI, the average medical claim on travel cover is more than £1,300. Notoriously in the US, these figures run into the tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds.

So below we’ve answered some of the most common medical related questions on travel insurance:

Q. Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?

Some insurers do provide cover for pre-existing conditions. However, it is vital that youflag these conditions during the application stage. If you don’t it could invalidate your policy.  

Q. Do you need to tell your travel insurance provider if you have a new medical condition?

If there is a significant change to your personal health then you’ll need to inform your travel insurance provider. This includes being diagnosed with a new long-term illness.

Failure to do so could invalidate your policy.

Q. Can you get travel insurance if you’re over 75 with medical conditions?

Yes. In fact, there are some providers on the market which tailor their policies towards an older demographic. For example, Saga has dedicated policies for over 50s and 70s.

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Uninsured holidaymakers face ‘financial ruin’ as emergency medical costs soar

Travel trade organisation Abta warned being uninsured is ‘not worth the risk of financial ruin’.

Holidaymakers are being warned they risk “financial ruin” if they fail to take out travel insurance.

Travel trade organisation Abta said emergency medical costs have “gone through the roof” in recent years.

It cited figures from insurer Axa Assistance showing the increase in the cost of an air ambulance flight back to the UK for someone falling seriously ill or having a major accident on a foreign holiday.

Flight prices from the European Union rose from 15,000-20,000 euros (£12,800-£17,100) in 2019 to 25,000-30,000 euros (£21,300-£25,600) last year.

Over the same period, flights from other parts of the world more than doubled in price, from 25,000-30,000 euros (£21,300-£25,600) to 75,000-85,000 euros (£64,000-£72,600).

Abta said air ambulance and other medical costs should be covered by comprehensive travel insurance policies.

It warned holidaymakers not to rely on the general health insurance card as it only allows UK citizens to access state medical care in the European Union and a handful of other destinations, and does not cover air ambulance costs.

Abta director of communications Graeme Buck said: “Every year we see very sad stories of uninsured people who have fallen ill or had an accident whilst overseas and are running up large medical bills.

“They often resort to setting up a Go Fund Me page or similar, but they will now find they need to raise substantially more money, with air ambulance and other medical costs having gone through the roof.

“It is simply not worth the risk of financial ruin simply to save a few pounds, so always take out travel insurance at the time of booking your holiday or other travel arrangements.”

Jennifer Anderson, director for consular and crisis at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, said: “Travelling without insurance can be expensive and distressing if things do go wrong when you are abroad.

“The good news is that purchasing the right travel insurance does not take long and could save you a lot of money and stress.

“I encourage anyone booking travel to make sure your travel insurance covers the places you visit, the duration of your visit and any planned activities, and do disclose any medical conditions so your cover remains valid.”

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Extra Mallorca health care for British tourists

Uk holidaymakers warned to take out travel insurance, britons in the dark over new entry/exit system in mallorca, top tips for britons travelling to spain and the eu this year.

Not having travel insurance could prove very expensive. | Majorca Daily Bulletin reporter

The Balearic Parliament today (Tuesday) backed a decree that makes 061 the sole health authority for coordinating all urgent and emergency care, as well as cooperating with private health centres which want to and meet certain requirements to be able to attend to tourists in the Balearics .

The decree gives the SAMU 061 emergency service the status of health authority, making it the sole body for the management and coordination of urgent and emergency health care in the Balearics. It also creates a network of health centres to provide urgent and emergency care for EU and UK citizens travelling temporarily to the Balearics, combining private and public resources.

The Regional Minister of Health, Manuela García, said that “it is necessary to incorporate new forms of shared management” to deal with the “increasingly frequent” saturation of emergency services when the high tourist season begins.

The minister considers it necessary to “count on the collaboration of private health centres and services that are interested in this to be able to make available personal and material resources that may be underused when the public resources are saturated”, in order to attend to EU and British citizens who are on holiday in the Balearics.

The increasingly frequent saturation of the emergencies service requires measures to be adopted “as soon as possible” and “to mobilise and seek the support of the private health network” with free voluntary membership, said García.

She stressed that in order to be able to provide this urgent care, private health centres must quality meet requirements on a par with public ones. The requirements are that they have a hospitalisation service, emergency service, emergency surgical care, ICU and their own or contracted medical transport service.

The minister explained that the IB-Salut Balearic health service will annually review the care provided and the economic regime in accordance with current public prices. The financing of these services will be limited to 65% of the public prices, the remaining 35% are the costs that IB-Salut must assume for the management.

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More related news.

In the meantime, the British travel association ABTA has issued a warning to all British holiday makers to take out travel insurance in order to avoid the high costs. The Travel Association is reminding customers travelling overseas to take out travel insurance as soon as they book their trip, after data shows the medical costs travellers without insurance could face have risen substantially since 2019 .

People requiring an air ambulance will now find that the cost of being flown safely home on a long haul flight will now cost more than twice the amounts charged in 2019. In some instances customers who have fallen seriously ill or had a major accident will need to be flown home in an air ambulance, with the necessary high quality medical assistance. In 2019, an air ambulance from the European Union back to the United Kingdom cost between €15,000-20,000 - this rose in 2023 to between €25,000 and 30,000. Worldwide costs are even higher, rising in 2019 from €35,000-40,000 to in 2023 €75,000-85,000*, more than doubling.

These air ambulance and other medical costs should be covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Customers may sometimes rely solely on the General Health Insurance Card (GHIC) , which allows UK citizens access to state medical care in the EU and a handful of other destinations. However, not all of these services are provided free of charge and air ambulance costs are not covered by GHIC, nor is the UK government under any obligation to cover any medical costs. This means that if you don’t have travel insurance, then you are liable to pay the full costs yourself, along with any other medical treatment.

ABTA is encouraging people to take out travel insurance as soon as they book their trip – that way you are covered straight away, including if you have to cancel for an unforeseen reason, like illness. It is also important to check that any activities you plan to do are covered by the policy and specialist insurance for activities such as winter sports is purchased. Customers should also always declare any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of taking out the insurance policy or risk invalidating their cover.

Graeme Buck, ABTA’s Director of Communications, said: “Every year we see very sad stories of uninsured people who have fallen ill or had an accident whilst overseas and are running up large medical bills. “They often resort to setting up a Go Fund Me page or similar, but they will now find they need to raise substantially more money, with air ambulance and other medical costs having gone through the roof. “It is simply not worth the risk of financial ruin , simply to save a few pounds, so always take out travel insurance at the time of booking your holiday or other travel arrangements.”

Jennifer Anderson, Director for Consular & Crisis, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “Travelling without insurance can be expensive and distressing if things do go wrong when you are abroad. “The good news is that purchasing the right travel insurance does not take long and could save you a lot of money and stress.

“I encourage anyone booking travel to make sure your travel insurance covers the places you visit, the duration of your visit and any planned activities and do disclose any medical conditions so your cover remains valid.”

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• Mallorca Holiday Insurance
• Tourist illness

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ABTA warns of rising aeromedical costs

The uk travel agent association has recommended that travellers overseas purchase comprehensive travel cover when booking their trip.

UK travel agent association ABTA has reported a “substantial” rise in medical costs for travellers overseas since 2019.

It noted that according to data provided to it by AXA Assistance UK, an air ambulance flying from the European Union (EU) to the UK in 2019 cost approximately €15,000–€20,000. This rose to between €25,000–€30,000 in 2023.

Further afield, worldwide air ambulance costs are even higher – more than doubling from €35,000–€40,000 in 2019, to €75,000–€85,000 in 2023.

In light of these rising costs, ABTA recommended that British travellers looking to go abroad should take out a comprehensive travel insurance policy “as soon as they book their trip” to protect their finances.

The association also recommended checking whether any specific activities – such as winter sports – may require additional coverage on top of the regular policy.

Travellers should not rely on GHIC or government support

ABTA also warned against over-reliance on the General Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which allows UK citizens to access state medical care in the EU and a handful of other destinations. It highlighted that not all services are covered by GHIC, while others are not provided free of charge to those who have the card.

Additionally, it confirmed that the UK government is under no obligation to cover any medical costs – making the traveller solely liable to pay the full cost of treatment.

“Every year we see very sad stories of uninsured people who have fallen ill or had an accident whilst overseas and are running up large medical bills,” said Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA. “They often resort to setting up a GoFundMe page or similar, but they will now find they need to raise substantially more money, with air ambulance and other medical costs having gone through the roof.

“It is simply not worth the risk of financial ruin, simply to save a few pounds, so always take out travel insurance at the time of booking your holiday or other travel arrangements,” he added.

Australian comparison site Finder recently reported that 17% of Australians had been left out of pocket due to insufficient insurance of some kind in the past three years.