travel insurance over 60 uk

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Travel Insurance for seniors

A little older, a little wiser.

Travelling in your 60s and beyond is a great way to enjoy your retirement

If you’re one of the growing number of adventurers choosing to spend your retirement globetrotting, the right travel insurance policy will give you peace of mind and protection while you’re seeking new experiences.

Covid-19 - what our travel insurance covers

Our travel insurance now covers you for certain events related to Coronavirus (COVID-19), provided you have proof of a positive Covid-19 test and your cover is active at the time of the event.

What we cover

We provide cover for some costs related to Covid-19: please see Section 1 'emergency medical costs and repatriation' and Section 2 'cancelling or cutting short your trip' in your policy book for full details on what's covered.

We'll cover you if:

• you were diagnosed with Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• a close relative died or became seriously ill as a result of Covid-19 before your trip was due to start
• you weren't allowed to board your pre-booked outbound travel due to symptoms of Covid-19
• an insured person or a close relative died during the trip because of Covid-19
• you couldn't take part in an excursion due to you self-isolating after getting Covid-19

What we don’t cover

You won't be covered if:

• you had reason to believe your trip may be cancelled, postponed or cut short when you booked it, purchased your policy or started your trip
• any government or public authority imposes travel restrictions or quarantine on a community, location, or vessel because of Covid-19 (this includes, but is not limited to, local lockdowns, entry requirements, being denied entry and airspace closures)
• you have to quarantine after arriving in the UK or abroad
• the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) change their advice to avoid ‘all travel’ or ‘all but essential travel’ to your destination because of Covid-19

For more information about how Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects your travel cover, see our FAQ page . And remember to check the policy booklet carefully before you buy to make sure our cover meets your needs.

Travel insurance for over 60s

As travel insurance isn’t compulsory, it can seem like an unnecessary expense – especially as we never think things will go wrong when we’re on holiday.

But it provides cover for a wide range of scenarios, including:

• Your belongings being lost, damaged or stolen
• Needing legal assistance while you’re away
• Travel delay

Choose from three levels of cover

Most significantly, travel insurance covers you if you need medical treatment on your trip. This includes cover for:

• Loss of medication
• To bring you home following emergency medical treatment

It's always best to buy cover well in advance of your trip in case your travel plans have to be cancelled. Our policy summary booklet sets out in detail what is and isn’t covered.

Travel insurance for over 60s with pre existing conditions

You don’t need specialist over 60 travel insurance with medical conditions, as long as you’re honest about any conditions when you’re buying your cover.

A pre-existing condition is a short or long term illness or injury you have or have had before you buy travel insurance, whether that’s having symptoms, tests, diagnosis or medical treatment.

Pre-existing conditions  include:

• Heart disease

You can declare your pre-existing conditions during the quote process to see if we can offer cover. If you’re unsure what needs to be declared or if you're unable to find your condition on the medical conditions list, please contact us on 0333 234 9913 .

Your pre-existing conditions won’t be covered unless you’ve:

• Declared them all on your policy
• Received written confirmation that we’ll cover your medical condition
• Paid any additional premium in full

Policy terms and conditions apply. Please note, if you’ve had a positive diagnosis of Covid-19 and been prescribed medication, received treatment, or had a consultation with a doctor or hospital specialist for any medical condition in the past two years, this needs to be declared on your policy.

If you don’t tell us about your pre-existing conditions or give us incorrect information, your policy may be invalid, and we may refuse all or part of any claim you submit.

For a quote with us, click the green button above.

The MoneyHelper directory

If you require cover for more serious medical conditions, MoneyHelper may be able to help you find specialist travel insurance through their medical directory.

If you wish to get in touch with them you can call them on 0800 138 7777 or find them online . (Monday to Friday 8:00-18:00, closed on Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays.)

Registering for free treatment

If you’re travelling in the European Economic Area or Switzerland, you should apply for a  GHIC  (Global Health Insurance Card) before you go. This gives you access to medical care in member countries. Not all treatment is free, however, and you may have to contribute towards medical expenses.

Some countries, such as New Zealand, Australia and the Falkland Islands, also have  reciprocal health care agreements  with the UK but, again, these don't cover all medical services. For example, if you need to be transported back to the UK following illness or injury, you’ll need a travel insurance policy in place to cover the costs.

To find out the true costs of getting ill abroad, check out our interactive globe where you can  explore the cost of medical treatment  in the most popular travel destinations for UK holidaymakers.

Cruise travel insurance for over 65s

A cruise is a great way to combine the luxury of a top hotel with the excitement of experiencing a different country every few days. If you’re going on a cruise, you must add Cruise cover to your policy.

Adding the  Cruise upgrade  means your travel insurance is valid while you're on board the cruise ship. You won’t be covered for any part of a cruise holiday without the add-on.

As well as standard travel cover, this kind of policy includes cruise-specific cover such as missed port departure (for reasons set out in the policy guide only) or cabin confinement, where you’ve been asked to stay in your cabin for medical reasons by the ship's medical officer.

Cover for sports and leisure activities

It’s true that sports have no age limit – but when it comes to travel insurance for over 65s, you may not be able to get cover for certain sports.

These might include general sporting activities, or those that pose more risk such as winter sports, where the average age cut off is around 65 years for cover.

If you’re planning any sporting activities on your trip, you may have to pay an extra premium. Always check your  policy book  or  contact us  to clarify what you will and won’t be covered for.

Your questions answered

Is travel insurance more expensive for older people.

Not necessarily. The cost of policies is dependent on a range of factors including the location, duration and nature of your trip.

Most travellers in their 60s find there's little to no difference in the cost of cover, but there may be restrictions as to what's included in the cover.

However, travel insurance for over 70s can cost a bit more. This is because a person over 70 requires more advanced medical cover due to the increased probability of health issues while travelling.

Is there a maximum age for Admiral Travel Insurance?

The maximum age limit for Admiral Travel Insurance is up to 75 years for annual multi trip policies – and up to 85 years for single trip policies.

However, the age limit and level of cover we can offer will depend on your personal information and details of your holiday.

Please get a quote or contact us to find out more.

Do you cover travellers over the age of 70 for Single Trip policies?

Yes, we can provide worldwide cover for customers up to the age of 75 years for annual multi trip policies – and up to 85 years for single trip policies.

Can you get winter sports insurance for over 70s?

Our winter sports insurance covers people up to and including the age of 75 if you’re travelling in Europe.

We don’t cover anyone over the age of 70 for winter sports if you’re travelling outside Europe.

Do you cover travellers over the age of 70 for Annual Multi-Trip policies?

Getting the most out of your trip, going anywhere nice.

Off to one of the destinations below? Take a look at our guides for some hints and tips on what you need to remember.

Travel insurance that suits you

Whether you're travelling solo, with your family, or with a little one on the way, read our guides to make sure our cover is right for you.

Family Travel Insurance

Student travel insurance, travelling while pregnant, travel insurance over 65, travelling with medical conditions, travel insurance upgrades.

Whether you want the adrenaline rush of a skiing holiday, or fancy taking to the seas on a cruise, you'll need to add extra cover to your policy.

Cruise Travel Insurance

Ski travel insurance, gadget travel insurance, adventurous sports insurance, single trip insurance, annual trip insurance.

Over 60s Travel Insurance

Compare cover from as little as £8.03*.

Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.

Why do you need over 60s travel insurance?

Finding the right travel insurance is an important part of planning a trip - and with Medical Travel Compared, you can compare cover for people aged 60 and above across a range of specialist providers. 

As you get older, finding holiday cover at a reasonable price can be tricky. Especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition to declare.

But with our easy-to-use online tool, you can compare cover from insurance providers all in one place - and choose the one most suitable for you in minutes.

Specialist Medical Cover

We only work with providers who specialise in covering pre-existing conditions.

No discounts. No pressure. We’ll always show you the best prices from providers.

Getting over 60 travel insurance with medical conditions

As mentioned above, we work with a wide variety of medical travel insurance specialists, who provide cover for a range of pre-existing medical conditions. 

You can declare your pre-existing conditions with us before comparing cover. 

This also includes conditions for which you take prescribed medication. Failing to do so could invalidate your policy, and the last thing you want to discover is that you’re not covered should you face a medical issue abroad.

If you’re unsure what you have to declare when applying for travel insurance for over 60s with pre-existing medical conditions, then why note read our article, Which Medical Conditions Do I Need To Declare?

Here are some of the more common types of conditions we can help you find cover for:

• Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients  
• Mental Health Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance after a Heart Attack

What is a pre-existing medical condition?

Dr Sarah Jarvis is the Clinical Director of the Patient Platform, an active medical writer, broadcaster, and the resident doctor for BBC Radio 2.

A pre-existing medical condition means a condition that you have been diagnosed or treated for prior to you taking out your travel insurance policy. This may be a health condition you have now or one that you no longer suffer from but have had in the past. Whilst you’ll need to tell us about most pre-existing health conditions if you have been diagnosed or treated for them (including repeat prescriptions) within the last two years, some conditions, such as heart or respiratory-related conditions, we’ll need to know if you’ve ever had them.

Over 60s annual multi-trip or single trip cover

You can buy medical travel insurance for a single trip with the help of Medical Travel Compared. If you’re only planning to holiday abroad once in the next year, this is probably the best way to go.

On the other hand, if you know you’ve got more extensive travel plans and you’ll be going on holiday a few times over the next year, an annual multi-trip travel insurance policy is probably the better option. 

Even if you’ve only got one holiday booked for now, it’s a good idea to compare prices between a single-trip policy and an annual travel insurance policy. Then you can make an informed decision and have complete peace of mind.

Are there different levels of over 60s insurance cover?

When comparing cover, you’re likely to find that some providers will offer a higher level of cover than others.

Usually, travel insurance costs more if cover is enhanced in certain areas. For example, depending on the duration of your trip(s), you need long stay cover , cover for multiple trips - or even specialist cover for certain pre-existing medical conditions. 

All these things have a bearing on how much cover is offered by any given policy, so you should always carefully check this prior to purchasing. 

When you buy travel insurance with us, you can even select one of our additional cover options before you compare quotes:

• Gadget cover
• Cruise cover
• Winter sports cover

Before buying holiday insurance for travellers over 60

There are a few things you may want to keep in mind before you start comparing cover.

• Have you declared your pre-existing medical conditions? (If you don’t you won’t be fully covered)
• Have you carefully checked the policy documents to ensure you know exactly what’s covered?
• Have you selected the right type of policy? (Single trip travel insurance or annual multi-trip?) 

If you can answer these questions, you’re ready to get started with our straightforward online comparison tool.

Compare deals to get the best over 60s cover

With Medical Travel Compared, people aged 60 and above can find and compare travel insurance across a range of leading providers in minutes. 

We make it easy to compare quotes all in one place - so you don’t have to waste any precious holiday planning time. 

Simply enter your personal details (including age), information in relation to your trip(s) (including duration and destinations) - and of course, any pre-existing conditions. 

Compare deals today - and get covered in minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

* Price is based on 1 traveller aged 63, who has no medical conditions and is travelling to France for 7 nights. The price is correct as of July 2024. Prices may vary according to your individual requirements.

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Don't just take our word for it...

If we're unable to help you find cover for a pre-existing medical condition , the Money Helper Directory has listings of companies that may be able to assist you. Further details can be found on their  website.

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Travel Insurance For Over 60s

Travel with confidence with Travel Insurance for the over 60's, with cover available for:

Whether you’re recently retired or seeking some relaxing time away, over 60s Travel Insurance is essential. As a Medical Travel Insurance specialist, we provide tailored medical cover to make sure you’re protected during your travels. 

This policy also covers standard travel mishaps, such as trip cancellation and lost baggage.

What is over 60s Travel Insurance – and do you need it?

Over 60s Travel Insurance is a specific insurance policy designed to provide cover for travellers aged 60 and older. This includes specialist cover for pre-existing medical conditions. 

Here are a few reasons why over 60s Travel Insurance is essential:

• It provides specialist medical cover tailored to you: Nearly 95% of adults aged 60 and older have at least one chronic condition . That’s why we cover over 1,300 different medical conditions when on your trip. This includes having to cancel or cut your trip short due to existing medical conditions
• We’ll cover your trip home if needed : If you need an air ambulance back to the UK and don’t have repatriation cover, you could face costs between £10,000 to upwards of £50,000 . That’s not even including expenses for medical treatment. We’ll protect you so you’re covered for repatriation
• It gives you peace of mind: With access to 24/7 emergency assistance services designed for older travellers, you can travel with confidence knowing help and support are just a phone call away.

Having the right policy in place removes the ‘what if’ worries, allowing you to travel with peace of mind.

What does AllClear’s over 60s Travel Insurance cover?

What’s covered?

• Medical expenses – We can cover any emergency medical treatment you need while travelling, including if it relates to  pre-existing medical conditions you’ve declared.
• Medical aids – You can travel with confidence because we’ll protect all your important medical equipment and accessories from loss or damage.
• Medication – If you misplace your medication, we will help you get a replacement as soon as possible.
• Repatriation – This covers the cost of emergency medical transport back to the UK.
• Lost luggage – We will pay out if your baggage is stolen or damaged. This way, you can replace your important items and enjoy your holiday.
• Cancellation and curtailment – Provides cover if you have to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or reasons beyond your control.
• Travel disruption – We will help you cover alternative transport or accommodation if your travel plans are disrupted, so you can continue your journey smoothly.

What’s not covered?

• Medical conditions you fail to declare – You need to provide us with an accurate medical history when you buy Travel Insurance so we can provide you the right cover. This is especially vital for senior travellers , and those with long-term illness
• High-risk activities – Some activities are not covered by our standard Travel Insurance. However, extra protection is available for an additional premium
• Missed departure within your control – While we know that things can go wrong, you won’t be covered if you miss your transport for an issue within your control.
• Deciding not to travel – We offer cancellation cover for specific reasons, such as illness, injury or bereavement. For full details please see your policy documents.

Find our different products below. We have three to choose from, Gold, Gold Plus and Platinum

If you’d like some help choosing which is best for you, give us a call .

SWIPE TO COMPARE POLICIES

* If you buy a policy which includes cancellation cover. / All these figures are per person and per trip.

AllClear’s Travel Insurance for over 60s with pre-existing medical conditions

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness or injury you’ve experienced symptoms, treatment, investigations, surgery, or medical appointments for within the last two years. 

Please remember that you must declare all pre-existing conditions on your policy.

Clinical Nurse Specialist, Kay Greveson explains more: “People often do not realise the cost of medical emergencies abroad. It’s natural that people believe it won’t happen to them, but even the most well-managed conditions need to be covered, in case the unexpected happens.”

So far, we have covered 1,300 different medical conditions., the most common include:

• Chronic illnesses – 94% of adults over 60 are currently living with at least one chronic condition, while nearly 80% have two or more. We provide cover for cancer , Crohn’s disease , IBS, gallstones and other long-lasting chronic conditions.
• Heart conditions – We cover all cardiovascular issues affecting heart function, including high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation .
• Diabetes – Disruptions in insulin production or usage affect blood sugar levels, including diabetes .
• Musculoskeletal conditions – Musculoskeletal disorders cause the most years spent in poor health for people aged 50 and over , with arthritis affecting almost 50% of adults over 65 . These conditions affect your bones, muscles, and joints, including back problems and osteoporosis .
• Respiratory problems – This includes respiratory conditions that cause breathing difficulties, like asthma and COPD . 
• Neurological conditions – These are disorders affecting the brain and nervous system, like strokes , epilepsy and multiple sclerosis .
• Mental health – 16% of older adults sought treatment for depression, and we provide cover for mental health too, including issues like anxiety and depression, as well as undiagnosed medical problems .

Declaring your medical conditions is easy. You can do this online or with one of our trained professionals over the phone.

Find the best over 60s Travel Insurance for your trip

We know that flexibility is an important factor during the planning stage of a holiday. The good news? Our policies are tailored to your exact needs and preferences so you can find the best Travel Insurance to suit your needs.

There are a few types of cover available to travellers over 60:

• Single Trip Travel Insurance is perfect if you’re only planning to travel once over 12 months. They offer holiday cover for your destination of choice for trips of up to 365 days
• Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance works well if you’re travelling more than once within 12 months. It’s usually more cost-effective than buying repeat Single Trip policies, too
• Family Travel Insurance is ideal if you’re going away with the kids or family. You can cover everyone under one policy so that everyone has the same level of protection when you travel. Plus, you won’t need to worry about sorting out cover from different providers if you need to claim
• Cruise Travel Insurance is extremely popular with over 60s travellers, with 33% of UK cruise customers being aged between 60-69. Cruise cover offers protection specific to your cruise, including onboard medical emergencies, cruise interruptions and cancellations, cabin confinement and lost luggage

We also offer optional extras for additional cover on your trip. For example, our Gadget cover insures your electronic devices and our Golf Insurance protects your golf equipment.

Countries covered by our Over 60s Travel Insurance

What better way to enjoy your retirement years than by exploring new places? We provide a range of policies to keep you covered no matter where you’re travelling.

• UK Travel Insurance will cover you for UK trips – including baggage and cancellation
• European Travel Insurance will cover you on trips to European countries, as well as Egypt , Morocco and Tunisia. This type of cover also includes protection for medical emergencies and pre-existing conditions
• Worldwide Travel Insurance provides essential cover across the globe, allowing you to travel with confidence. You can also choose whether to exclude the USA , Canada and the Caribbean

How our Travel Insurance For Over 60s works: A simple 3 step quote process

To make sure you get  the best Travel Insurance for your trip away, you will first need to complete our quick and simple 3-step screening process.

Here’s how it works.

1. Get a quote online or by phone

Once you’re ready to start the quote process, the first step is to provide your personal details and information about your holiday plans. This can be completed over the phone with one of our team members or online.

2. Complete our simple medical screening process

Here, you need to declare any medical conditions you have and any medications you and your travel companions are taking. Be sure to answer all our medical questions and tell us everything we need to know about your current health. 

This way, we can provide the cover that best suits your needs.

3. Get your quote

You’ll then get your quote(s) and can either proceed to buy or save your quote at this stage.

Our experts say…

“What better way to embrace your golden years than with a passport in hand? We want travellers of all ages to enjoy exploring the world, whatever your holiday style and even if you have medical conditions. But travelling isn’t without its risks, which is where we can help. We can support you in safeguarding your adventures with our comprehensive over 60s Travel Insurance, so you can focus on making the most of this exciting chapter in your life.” 

Letitia Smith MSc, Travel Insurance expert

What our customers say

With over 123,000 reviews on Trustpilot, it’s easy to see what our customers think about us.

What our Customers Say

Allclear - excellent.

“Excellent- quick, efficient and felt valued. Paul was very polite and patient with all queries. Offered good value for those over 60 with pre-existing medical conditions” –  Abraham .

The cost of travel Insurance usually increases with age, because older people tend to have more health problems and accidents that could lead to claims. Therefore, premiums rise to cover the higher risk.

Our policies have no upper age limit. 

However, the cost of your policy will depend on a number of factors, including your age, medical conditions, your chosen level of cover and destination.

This policy covers emergency medical treatment abroad and up to £25K for trip cancellations.

Additionally, you’re also covered for travel disruptions and delays, and insured against lost, damaged, or stolen baggage and personal belongings.

As with any policy, you can get your over 60 Travel Insurance before or after you’ve booked your trip, but it must be before you travel. Martin Lewis   says that the best time to buy your Travel Insurance is as soon as you book your trip. 

This way, you’re covered if you  become ill or if a medical condition forces you to cancel or delay your trip.

Yes, it is essential you have Over 60s Travel Insurance, even with a GHIC (previously EHIC) card.

GHIC only provides limited cover for emergency medical treatment within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. You won’t be covered for other issues like luggage loss, travel delays or cancellations.

When buying Over 60s Travel Insurance, you must declare any pre-existing medical condition you may have. If you choose not to declare all of your conditions, your cover could be declined.

You can declare your medical conditions and get comprehensive cover in minutes. This can be completed via our online quote process or by calling one of our trained professionals.

The cost of your Travel Insurance is determined by a number of factors including your age, medical history, destination, duration of the trip and level of cover.

Over 60 Holiday Insurance covers you while you’re in your 60s.  However, AllClear branded policies have no maximum age limit. You can travel With AllClear at any age with our Seniors Travel Insurance .

Yes, you’ll be covered for costs if you need to return to the UK when you buy our Over 60s Holiday Insurance. Cover for repatriation back to the UK also extends to any other travelling member listed on your policy.

Yes, be sure to say that you are on a waiting list for treatment during the Medical Warranty section of your quote.

Plus, if you’d like to be covered for cancelling your holiday due to being on the waiting list, add Waiting List cover as an optional extra.

Of course! Being on the same policy as a friend or family member also has many great benefits. 

For example, if you’ve opted for cancellation cover in your policy, all of you can benefit from it if needed.

Travel Insurance for over 60s can be bought as an Annual Multi-trip Travel Insurance policy, allowing you to take multiple trips throughout the year. 

Instead of specifying your exact destinations, you choose your preferred region of cover, so you can:

• Travel for up to 365 days on a Single Trip Travel Insurance policy
• Enjoy up to 45 days per trip on standard annual multi-trip policies, with the option to extend your stay up to 55 days. The maximum trip duration may vary between Annual Multi-Trip policies

Refer to your policy wording for more information.

Get the most out of your trips with our helpful guides

Where are you visiting?

Explore our travel guides to help you plan your trip, discover new locations and make the most out of your travels.

Which activities do you have planned?

Whether you’re teeing off on a golf trip or setting sail on a cruise, remember to add extra cover to your policy for a worry-free trip.

• United Kingdom
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Golf Travel Insurance

Written by: Letitia Smith | Travel Insurance Expert Last Updated: 6 August 2024

† Based on Trustpilot reviews of all companies in the Travel Insurance Company category that have over 70,000 reviews as of January 2024. AllClear Gold Plus achieved a Which? Best Buy.

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Travel Insurance

Medical travel insurance, seniors travel insurance, europe travel insurance, worldwide travel insurance, coronavirus travel insurance, travel insurance for over 60s.

• Unlimited medical emergency expenses¹
• Up to £10K cancellation cover
• 24/7 emergency medical helpline

Covered 27 million+ travellers

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Your age shouldn’t be a barrier to seeing the world. With InsureandGo’s over 60s travel insurance, we’ll give you a quote for over-60s travel insurance policies in a few minutes. You’ll be covered for medical emergencies, cancellation, lost luggage, delays even if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

What is over 60s travel insurance and how does it work?

Over 60s travel insurance is a type of travel insurance policy that covers the needs of later-in-life travellers, including any pre-existing health conditions you declare.

If you’re 60 and over and are looking to travel abroad, then we have the perfect policy for you. It’s important to be covered when you’re on holiday, as, unfortunately, accidents do happen.  

• The NHS estimates a third of all people over 65 will have at least one fall a year . 
• The UK Government estimates that a fall in Spain that results in a broken hip would cost £15,000 .

Doing anything else special on holiday this year? We’ve got you covered with our specific travel insurance policies, like cruise travel insurance , hiking travel insurance , golf travel insurance and even extreme sports cover .

What does InsureandGo’s over 60s travel insurance cover?

What’s covered.

All our over 60s travel insurance policies include:

• Medical emergency expenses.
• Cover for cancellation of your trip.
• Over 100 sports and activities covered (see your policy wording for a full list of activities).
• Personal belongings and baggage cover.
• Personal money, passports and travel documents cover.
• Accommodation cover.
• Legal expenses cover.

Find out about our optional add-ons for activities like extreme sports , hiking , cruises and golf . We will consider all pre-existing medical conditions, find out more about medical travel insurance .

What’s not covered

We try to provide as much cover as possible with our policies, however, there are some situations where travel insurance will not cover you. For example:

• Events or reasons to claim which took place before you booked the trip or the insurance was purchased cannot be covered. Insurance exists to cover unexpected events outside of the insured’s control.
• Claims which are less than the excess for that section of cover. For example, you cannot claim a £40 lost item if your baggage excess is £60.
• All of our travel insurance policies include cover for cancellation of your trip, but there may be some exclusions. For example, you won’t be covered to cancel if you simply decide not to go.

The excess and amount of cover available varies depending on the level of travel insurance you buy. Make sure you have a look at our policy wording to see the full terms and conditions, including what is and isn’t covered.

Age restrictions

We think holiday insurance should be available to as many people as possible, that’s why our policies have no upper age limit.

Trip length

Our annual multi-trip travel insurance gives you cover to travel as many times as you like during the year. Each individual trip can last up to 31 days for Budget policies, 45 days for Silver and Gold policies, and up to 55 days for Black policies.

If you want to be abroad longer than this, you’ll need our long-stay travel insurance .

The amount of valuables cover available depends on the policy you choose. Make sure you have a look at our policy wording to see the full terms and conditions, including what is and isn’t covered.

If you’ll be taking away something a bit more expensive you can add our valuables extension . Check the policy wording for full details of what’s covered with this add-on.

The best travel insurance for over 60s and 65s

We know that your age shouldn’t limit you, which is why we provide any travel insurance add-ons you might need, no matter your age. 

• Cruises : Providing extra cover for problems exclusive to cruise travel, whether that’s cabin confinement, missed departure or even repatriation back to the UK. 
• Single trip cover : Just heading abroad once this year? Single-trip travel insurance might be the way to go.
• Golf : Cover equipment, green fees and more for your entire trip – even if you spend the whole holiday on the course.
• Europe or worldwide cover: Doing multiple stops on your holiday? Selecting a travel insurance policy that covers a specific region might help, like our Europe travel insurance or worldwide travel insurance . 
• Extreme sports and hazardous activities: Everyone deserves to have some stress-free laughs on holiday. Our standard policies already cover over 100 sports and activities, but if you enjoy something from the more extreme end of the scale, take a look at our hazardous activities cover .

Choose a cover level to suit your travel needs

Travel insurance for over 60s with pre-existing medical conditions.

Our over 60s travel insurance allows you to declare any medical conditions you may have. We can cover over 1,300 conditions, many of them at no additional cost.

You must tell us about any pre-existing conditions before you set off. During your quote set-up, we’ll ask you some questions to work out your quote, depending on the health issues you have. 

Examples of medical conditions we can cover include:

• Heart-related conditions
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Disabilities
• Epilepsy or Stroke

It’s important to let us know about any medical conditions you have before you buy your policy. We can cover many conditions free of charge, but for others, there may be an additional premium to pay. To find out more, please read our page about travel insurance for medical conditions or take a look at our policy wording documents .

Which destinations are covered by our over 60s travel insurance?

We offer over 60s travel insurance policies based on the following destination groupings:

• Europe (plus countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, plus Madeira and The Azores)*
• Worldwide (except the USA , Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean)

*Europe includes: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Azores, Balearics, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia And Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madeira, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine.

If you’ve already bought annual multi-trip travel insurance for a particular area but are now going to be travelling further afield, we can upgrade your coverage to include the new destination. Alternatively, you could buy separate single trip cover instead. However, upgrading your annual travel insurance policy to include worldwide cover can often work out cheaper.

If you’d like to discuss these options, or you’re still unsure which area your trip falls into, please contact us .

How to book our travel insurance for over 60s

We know your to-do list for your next trip can be a long one, so we make getting over 60s insurance as simple as possible:

1. Let us know a little info

We need to know a bit about your holiday, who you want to cover, and when you want the policy to start. We will also ask you for information regarding any pre-existing medical conditions so that we can ensure we provide you with the right level of cover. 

It’s quick and easy to give us this information, either online or by calling our team:

2. Get your quote

Once you have your quote, you can either purchase, or save it for the future.

“Travel insurance is an absolute must-have if you’re over 60 and heading abroad this year. Enjoying your retirement years should be stress-free and enjoyable. You don’t want massive hospital bills chipping away at your retirement fund. At InsureandGo, we cover your medical conditions and sporting activities on your trip and we don’t have an upper age limit, so you can be sure we’ll take the best possible care of you, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday.” Letitia Smith – Travel insurance expert

Our reviews speak for themselves

“decent price & great cover”.

“I find insurance price very suitable for an annual travel insurance, for a 60+. I would highly recommend giving it a shot whoever is looking for decent price and great cover by their travel insurance.”

Frequently asked questions on travel insurance for over 60s

Do i need specialist travel insurance if i’m over 65.

Most “standard” travel insurance policies will cover you from the ages of 18 to 64. However, once you hit 65, you might find that you need a specialist insurance policy. This is especially true if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

At InsureandGo, we have no upper age limit for our policies, and we cover around 1,300 pre-existing medical conditions at no extra cost, so you’ve got more money to enjoy your holiday.

What is the maximum age you can insure up to?

InsureandGo offers travel insurance with no upper age limit . Our policies always include cover for over 100 sports and activities, no matter your age.

Will my policy be more expensive if I’m over 60?

While there is no upper age limit, several factors, including your age, do affect the cost of the policy. This is due to the fact that holidaymakers over 60 are more likely to need to make a costly claim.

Does my over 60s travel insurance change depending on where I’m going?

Yes, but not because you’re over 60. Usually, travel insurance policy prices change depending on where you’re going because different countries have different costs for medical treatment. For example, some countries have higher medical expenses than others, so travel insurance for the USA is more expensive for example.

How long can I travel for if I’m over 60?

As long as anyone else! There’s no reason your age should hold you back. Our policies do have trip limits, but these don’t depend on your age. With single-trip travel insurance, you can be abroad for 365 days if you choose to! 

Our annual multi-trip travel insurance allows you to travel as often as you like but with a duration limit on each trip. Budget policies would cover you for 31 days at a time, Silver or Gold for 45 days, and Black policies can cover unlimited trips of up to 55 days.

Do I need a GHIC card as well as travel insurance?

You should carry a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC – previously EHIC) whenever you travel to Europe. The GHIC will cover any necessary treatments you may receive at public hospitals on your trip. 

Remember that you still need European travel insurance to cover the costs of any unexpected medical treatment the GHIC might not cover. This includes things like transport to and from hospital or even repatriation back to the UK.

What is considered a pre-existing condition for travel insurance?

We consider a medical condition to be pre-existing if any person insured on this policy has:

• Taken any prescribed medication or received medical treatment within the last 2 years
• Been registered in or been an outpatient at a hospital, clinic or GP surgery in the last 2 years.
• Been advised of a terminal illness.

You must declare any pre-existing medical conditions you have before buying travel insurance.

What happens if I don’t declare a pre-existing condition on my travel insurance?

If you don’t declare your pre-existing condition before getting your travel insurance policy, you may find that your policy becomes invalid. This will mean that you will end up having to pay extensive medical bills if the need arises, along with other costs that would previously be covered by your policy.

How far in advance should I get travel insurance?

You should get your cover as soon as you book your trip. Failing this, you should arrange cover as soon as possible. Remember that your travel insurance will only be valid if you have bought it before you leave the UK.

It’s especially important to make sure you have travel insurance if you’ve pre-booked any activities or excursions for while you’re on holiday. Policies differ, so check the wording of your policy if you have a specific activity in mind.

Who can buy an InsureandGo over 60s travel insurance policy?

All our over 60s travel insurance policies are available to UK residents. This means:

• Someone who has been living in the UK or the Channel Islands for at least six of the last 12 months
• They must be in the UK at the time of purchase
• All trips must start and end in the UK

Get a quote online or browse our policy documents for more information.

Travel insurance guides

Frequently asked questions.

If you’ve got more questions about how our over 60s travel insurance works, or more general travel insurance queries, have a read through our FAQs .

Travel advice

Our travel advice section offers handy tips and guides to specific countries, from what documents you need to what you might visit while you’re there.

Travel insurance reviews

If you want to know what our customers think of us, and why they rate us so highly, have a read through some of the reviews they’ve left us.

*Discount excludes any premium generated to cover medical conditions or optional extras & is automatically applied. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Discount tiers of 5% for premiums between £0-49, 10% for £50-249, & 20% for £250+ apply. Offer ends at 23:59 on 02/09/24. T&Cs apply.

• Unlimited emergency medical expenses available on Black level policies.
• InsureandGo’s Gold achieved a Which? Best Buy.

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• Travel insurance for seniors

As you get older, being able to go where you want when you want is all part of the joy. And changes in your medical needs shouldn’t stand in the way of your desire to travel.

Does it feel like getting travel insurance is holding you back? This guide looks at how to get the cover you need, including for pre-existing medical conditions, and what to look out for when you do.

Posted: 26/1/2022 | By Darren Williams

Getting travel insurance in later life

Finding the right travel insurance for seniors of any age may seem difficult at times, but it needn’t be. A handful of insurers cater specifically to pensioners and seniors, and others can give people aged over 60 the same benefits under their normal travel insurance cover.

That’s how we do it here at Post Office. You simply request a quote the same way adults of all ages do. We’ll ask you about the type of holiday you’re taking, the activities you’ll be doing and the level of cover you need. And we’ll consider all medical conditions, with a simple online screening. Then, if you're eligible for cover, we'll quote you a price.

Post Office Travel Insurance can help cover medical costs, protect against delays or cancellations, lost luggage and documents, and personal liability. There’s no upper age limit on our single-trip policies. Or, if you’re travelling more in a 12-month period, we can provide annual multi-trip cover up to 75 years of age.

Why is travel insurance important?

Most holidays pass without any problems but there’s always a a worry about what might go wrong so it’s always safer to go prepared. Travelling without insurance just isn’t worth it – fall ill in some countries and you could be liable for huge medical bills as well as the cost of getting you home.

Travel insurance is important whatever age you are when you travel. And it’s a must-have for seniors especially – whether you’re 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 or above, or anywhere in between. Getting cover in place will let you relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about how you might pay for unexpected medical treatment, lost or damaged possessions, or cancellations.

It’s important to know that, insurers tend to see older age groups as a higher risk, the cover they quote for might be more expensive, or they may not cover all things you need. It's important to do your research and make sure the price and the policy are both right for you. Read the policy documents carefully and make sure you declare all medical conditions on the medical questionnaire. We’ll look at why this is so important in the next section.

Need insurance that covers your travels in later life?

Medical cover and the ghic or ehic.

The most important thing about travel insurance for seniors and the elderly is that your health cover gives you the protection you need, such as in medical emergencies.

If you’re visiting a country in the EU, a valid UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) or still-in-date European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) will let you access state provided medical healthcare for free or the same as it costs locals.

Getting travel insurance is still important, though, as it covers costs the cards don’t, such as repatriation to the UK if you need to be transported home. And, of course, it also protects you in the event of delays or cancellations, lost luggage and documents and personal liability.

T ravel insurance and pre-existing medical conditions

It’s important to make sure you have the right cover in place in case something related to your condition happens while you’re away.

To get travel insurance you’ll need to accurately declare all pre-existing medical conditions when you apply. Insurers will make a decision based on the details you give them. There are different levels of risk they’re prepared to accept, so getting declined by one insurer doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be declined by them all.

Conditions such as cancer, heart problems and diabetes will affect the policy and its price because they increase the chance of a claim. One way of managing this cost is to go with an insurer who offers specialised policies for your age group, and may be able to tailor cover to your needs.

You could also look at travel insurance for the elderly that is manually underwritten, meaning each policy considers the unique situation of the policy holder. This type of insurance is, predictably, more expensive in general than standard terms travel insurance.

At Post Office, we consider all medical conditions when you ask for a quote. This means, if you’re living with a long-term illness, you may be covered for any issues it could cause while you’re away, such as having to seek medical care or being rushed home for treatment.

If you’re in doubt or have a condition that’s particularly rare, it might be worth talking to a representative. If you have a serious condition that you’re struggling to find cover for, check the Money and Pensions Scheme (MaPS) directory of companies that may be able to help or call 0800 138 7777 .

Find out more about:

Travel insurance for people with cancer

Travel insurance for diabetics

Travel insurance and high blood pressure

Choosing the right cover

Most travel insurance for seniors will follow a standard format: do you want insurance for a single trip, for multiple trips or for a specialist trip such as a cruise or a ski break?

Cover for single or multiple trips

One of the first things to think about when choosing a policy is how often you’re likely to travel in a 12-month period. Different policy types may suit depending on the answer:

• Single trip travel insurance is designed for people who want to take one trip within any given year. If it’s likely you’ll only travel once in that time, it may be the most cost-effective option
• Annual multi-trip travel insurance  tends to suit people who travel two or more times within a year. It can be better value for those who go away frequently

Do you need a more specialist type of cover?

For some holidays, such as cruises or skiing trips, you may need to buy a policy add-on or specialist policy that will cover the specific activities or risks involved:

• Cruise cover  costs a little extra but offers extra protection at sea, like emergency rescue and cabin confinement; cruising without it may invalidate your travel insurance policy
• Sports and higher-risk activities: while lots of activities may be covered by regular policies some, such as golf and extreme sports , may need extra protection for you, other people and the equipment used.

Always check what activities your policy does and doesn’t cover. If your travel insurance and any add-ons you’ve bought with it don’t cover it you might want to think twice about getting involved and risking an accident

• Winter sports travel insurance : if activities such as skiing are still your thing, they’ll of course need some extra cover for the higher risk of injury involved, and the safeguard equipment and property in the event of accidental damage

Some providers also offer cover for unexpected events like local unrest and natural catastrophes such as volcanic eruptions or tsunamis. Check the risks in your destination on the UK government’s foreign travel advice page. Or, if you’re going to a country that you know well, you may decide this cover is unnecessary.

Check policies for any age limits

Whichever policy type you choose, check carefully to see how long you are covered for each trip. Since older people tend to go on longer holidays, it’s important to know if there are any trip limits.

Travel insurers can set upper age limits depending on the kind of activity you want to do while away. For instance, you’re less likely to find ski cover if you’re in your 70s and 80s. That’s not to say it doesn’t exist; you just might need to find a specialist provider.

The older you get, the more restrictions there may be on how long you can travel and stay covered. For instance, while younger people may be able to get covered for up to a year, people in their 70s might be limited to 90 days, and those in their 80s to fewer days still.

This will differ between insurers, so it’s worth knowing what you can get covered for before making a purchase.

As an example, Post Office Travel Insurance has the following age limits:

• Single-trip policies : if you’re up to and including 70, you can qualify for the longest possible trip of 365 days. If you’re between 71 and 75, the maximum length of your trip drops to 90 days. And if you are 76 or above, the longest trip you'd be covered for is 31 days
• Multi-trip policies : the maximum age for our Economy, Standard and Premier level multi-trip policies is 75. Although you can take as many trips as you like within the policy year, there’s a maximum of 31 days duration for each individual trip. The limit can be extended to 45 or 60 days for an additional premium.

Policy details to look out for

When you compare travel insurance for senior travellers from different providers, check to see if you have cover for things such as:

• Medical emergencies
• Repatriation (getting you back home)
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage
• Lost or stolen cash
• Medical transfers
• Cancellation or curtailment (cutting your trip short)
• Personal liability
• Legal protection

Not every policy will include all of these. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover most of them, but always double check, and be aware of how much you’re covered for in each case.

Does your policy cover the cost of your holiday if you need to cancel it? For older travellers, there’s an increased chance you might fall ill or be unable to make your trip. Ask before you buy what would happen if you had to cancel, and what you could claim back.

Interested in travel insurance?

Common questions, what should senior travel insurance cover.

Travel insurance for seniors should include medical cover that suits the needs of older travellers, so you can call on it in emergencies such as injury or if you fall ill while you’re away.

Other things commonly covered by a travel insurance policy include cancellation and curtailment, and loss of belongings. If you buy travel insurance at the time you book your holiday, then you’re covered from that point onward. This means that if you have to cancel your holiday before leaving due to bad traffic, unexpected illness or a family bereavement, you could make a claim.

Some providers offer travel insurance tailored specifically to travellers in senior age groups. However, normal travel insurance policies are often available to customers well into their 80s. This might be better value and will still offer emergency medical cover. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if you need specialist cover or if what is provided on a standard policy is right for you.

What is travel insurance for over 65s, over 70s and over 75s?

As we get older insurers see us as higher risk on our travels because we’re more likely to suffer health problems while we’re away, which usually increases the cost of insurance. But there’s another reason why travel insurance for seniors is usually pricier: older people tend to be more adventurous and often choose to travel to more far-flung, exotic places.

Visiting Thai temples or African game parks is always a wonderful experience, but the medical costs should anything happen to you will usually be higher than if you were travelling in Europe. If you’re in an age group that’s over 65, 70, 75 or 80, these costs are likely to become higher still, as specialist care and travel arrangements may be more complex the older you get.

Can I get travel insurance if I’m over 80 years old?

The simple answer is yes, you can. There are lots of policies on the market that cater to older travellers, either as part of their regular travel insurance product or with specialist products tailored to older age groups.

The reason that people over 80 might need a special policy when they travel is they have a different set of risks. While nobody expects you to be engaging in too many extreme sports in your 80s, there are other risks that need to be accounted for, like illnesses or pre-existing medical conditions.

At Post Office, while we don’t offer a specialist travel insurance policy for over 80s there’s no upper age limit on our single-trip policies. You can get a quote and we’ll consider all medical conditions.

Can I travel with someone else on a travel insurance policy?

If you’ll be travelling with a companion such as a friend, partner or family member, it’s important to check if they’ll be covered too. Many seniors travel insurance policies are just for individuals and a companion may need to take out their own cover. You may also need separate policies for younger passengers if you plan to travel with your grandchildren .

When should I buy travel insurance?

It’s a good idea to buy your travel insurance as soon as your holiday is booked.

It will cover you for cancellation or anything that might prevent you from travelling, like redundancy, unexpected illness, injury or even bereavement before you make your trip.

The right time to get covered may differ depending on the kind of break you book. Read our guide to when to buy travel insurance to find out more.

Any travel advice for seniors going on holiday?

Before you go

• Ideally before you book, check you’re traveling with a reputable firm. This is a good way to avoid being in a situation where you will be put at risk in the first place. Check the  Association of British Travel Agents  (ABTA) to make sure that your trip is safe and well-managed by a trusted firm
• Take a copy of your medical notes, including your emergency numbers
• Check with your doctor or on the NHS travel pages  to see if you need any travel vaccinations or medication before you go
• Make sure there’s no Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice against travel to your destination. If there is, travelling against it could invalidate your travel insurance
• If you’re travelling to Europe, apply for a  UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic)  to get free or discounted medical care
• Make sure your  passport is still valid and  apply for a new passport  if you need to. Some countries like you to have at least six months left on your passport to allow you entry
• Inform your bank about your travel plans so you can use your cards abroad – some banks will stop your cards when they’re used abroad in an anti-fraud measure
• When packing medicines, it’s important to check what you can take on a plane as there are limits on liquids which can include medication. Bring extra prescription medication with you in case of delays, and keep spares of any glasses or hearing aids in a separate bag in case you lose your normal set

Read our pre-travel and packing checklists to make sure you don’t forget anything important. And find out how to pack a suitcase with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

During your trip

• Keep your hand luggage light and check your bags in at the airport to make getting around much easier
• On your flight, drink plenty of water and keep moving as often as you can
• Try and book outside of the peak seasons. This will also help you find cheaper deals
• Check your hotel for accessibility if you have difficulty getting around. Check the AgeUK advice on accessible holidays  for more details
• Make sure you know the address of a local doctor and pharmacy near to where you’re staying

Other travel products

Order foreign currency online or in selected branches. Pick up in any branch or get it delivered to your home.

One prepaid Mastercard™ that stores up to 22 currencies.

Get your passport application right the first time. We can even complete and submit it for you digitally.

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HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » What Are The Best Over 60 Travel Insurance Policies?

What Are The Best Over 60 Travel Insurance Policies?

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Table of Contents

Are you over 60s years old and want to get travel insurance that’s tailored to your age range and kind of trip?

You’ve come to the right place!

In the guide below, we will explain everything you need to know about travel insurance for over 60: is it compulsory, which cover should you get, what travel insurance terms you should pay attention to, etc.

Stay tuned!

What is over 60 travel insurance?

As simple as the name suggests, over 60 travel insurance is a travel insurance policy for the over 60s age range. It usually doesn’t differ that much from travel insurance policies offered to younger age ranges, but has slightly inflated premiums.

However, some over 60 travel insurance specialists may provide cover with emphasis on:

• Particularly significant medical compensation (many medical conditions covered, compensation ceiling up to £10M or even unlimited, etc.) as we are all more likely to get healthcare problems as we get older
• Specific extras preferred by this age range (gold equipment cover, cruise gear, etc.).

Is over 60s travel insurance compulsory?

The short answer is no. Travel insurance is not a legal requirement no matter your age range. You won’t be fined if you don’t get any cover for your trip – unlike car insurance.

You may be required to apply for travel insurance only for specific visa requirements (for the Schengen visa, for example).

However, although not compulsory, we strongly advise you to apply for a travel insurance policy to cover any trip cancellation, medical or repatriation expenses you may have to face while travelling.

Indeed, for as cheap as a few pounds per day, comprehensive over 60 travel insurance will provide you with both financial compensation and 24/7 assistance in case an unexpected event occurs.

Compare the best over 60s travel insurance policies

The over 60 people travel much more than average. People aged over 60 are also the most prudent travellers. A study by Medical Travel showed that in 2019, 80% of their travel insurance consumers were more than 50. Many people aged 60 and over travel solo, making finding a tailored policy even more important.

Many insurers have therefore developed specific travel insurance for people over 60s with higher upper age limit policies, discounts for couples or families and specific extras such as cruise or golf cover, etc. Some insurers have also developed dedicated over 60 travel insurance for those with medical conditions.

Let’s learn about over 60 holiday insurance and find out the upper age limits:

While shopping around for the best over 60s holiday insurance policy, we advise you to carefully check medical compensation limits, age limits of policies and maximum number of days per single trip.

Use our 100% anonymous and free comparison tool to find cheap holiday insurance for over 60.

Why do I need over 60 holiday insurance?

Did you know that a survey conducted by Which in 2018 showed that of about 10000 UK travellers of all age ranges, 64% had medical treatment while they were travelling abroad? With the over 60s big traveller's age range, this percentage is even more likely to grow.

Depending on your trip destination, the medical expenses or trip cancellation fees you may have to face could really leave you out of pocket.

Just to show you how important applying for travel insurance is, here are a few examples of what an unfortunate and unexpected event might cost you during an example holiday:

Good to know

Applying for over 60s holiday insurance will prevent you from having to face any unexpected and significant expenses as described above. Always take your European Health Insurance Card if you are travelling to Europe as it will cover you for medical care other than emergency or repatriation (until the 31/12/2020).

What are the different types of travel insurance for over 60?

Over 60s holiday insurance policies are split between two main categories:

What should your over 60 travel insurance cover?

Each travel insurance policy is different, since it is the insurer who determines the content of the contracts it offers: guarantees, compensation limits, deductibles, travel insurance prices, etc.

However, all contracts on the market must include at least the following guarantees, applicable in Europe or worldwide:

• Medical expenses: compensation by the insurer for your health expenses during your stay (consultation, analysis, emergency treatment, longer hospital stay, etc.)
• Repatriation assistance to the UK: financial and logistical support by a dedicated 24/7 team for your early return to your country of residence if it proves necessary
• Trip cancellation and cover for delayed or missed departure: compensation if you need to cancel your trip for whatever reason or if you missed your departure Personal liability: compensation for any damage or injury made to a third party (consider adding it as extra if not included in standard cover)
• Baggage: compensation for any lost or theft of baggage while travelling (consider adding it as extra if not included in standard cover)

Most of the time, travel insurers offer different formulas. Cover types involved are usually the same but the compensation limits and deductibles vary.

When applying for holiday insurance for over 60s, you should pay close attention to:

Always carefully check the age limit and compensation amounts as well as deductibles you’ll have to pay in case you need to make a claim. For medical expenses, always get your insurer to accept them before paying if you need to advance fees.

What are the should-have features for your over 60 travel insurance?

Maybe you would also like to be covered with nice-to-have protection add-ons while travelling. Here are some examples below:

What over 60 holiday insurance extras might you go for?

We’ve noticed that the over 60 age range particularly pays attention to extras such as:

What does over 60 travel insurance not cover?

Most travel insurers will not give financial compensation for:

• Any claim made as a result of a pre-existing medical condition or pending diagnosis undeclared at the time of purchase
• Any claim made as a result of you being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Difficulties due to natural disaster, war, civil unrest (look out for strikes)
• Any claim made as a result of a terrorist act (except if you took out this cover as an option)
• Any claim made as a result of extreme sport practice not disclosed at the time of applying.

We would strongly advise you to carefully check your policy booklet for the main exclusions before leaving home. 

What if I am over 60s years old with pre-existing medical conditions?

Whether you’re turning 18 or you’re 60+, travel requires you by law to disclose any information regarding your health condition.

When you apply for over 60 travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions, you will answer a set of healthcare questions. This is called screening. You will not be asked to provide your insurer with a doctor’s certificate to show that you are fit to travel but you are required to be honest about any illness diagnosed at the time of purchasing your travel insurance policy.

Not disclosing this kind of information is called fronting, and it could invalidate your medical claim when you are trying to get compensation for medical expenses you paid for abroad. 

A pre-existing medical condition is typically one for which you have been diagnosed and have received treatment before you apply for any travel insurance policy, regardless of whether this is short or long term.

Here is a list of the most common pre-existing medical conditions you will need to declare:

• Diabetes (with insulin injections)
• Heart-related condition (stroke, cardiomyopathy, etc.)
• Any respiratory illness (lung problems, asthma)
• Blood-circulatory condition (high-blood pressure, high cholesterol)
• Any mental or physical disability (depression, etc.)
• Any neurological problem (e.g. Alzheimer’s)
• Any treatment related to cancer care
• Any allergies
• Crohn's disease
• Hernia conditions
• Any drugs or medication prescription, etc.

The exact definition of what counts as a pre-existing medical condition and what needs medical screening may vary from one insurer to another. Carefully check our reviews as well as insurers’ policy booklets to be sure your medical history is taken into account and will not invalidate any medical claim you may make.

Get to know more on pre-existing medical condition travel insurance here .

How much is over 60s travel insurance?

Over 60 travel insurance might be slightly more expensive than the age ranges below. However, if you haven’t declared any pre-existing medical conditions, inflation of premiums might not be significant.

The table below shows indicative quotes for seniors applying for travel insurance policies:

Single trip to USA / Europe: 10 days travel, single individual, no medical history disclosed Family single trip to Europe: 10 days travel, 5 individual (3 children under 18), no medical history disclosed Annual multi-trip to Europe: Single individual, no medical history disclosed

It is, however, quite difficult to give precise ranges of how much a travel insurance will cost for you as prices are based on a wide range of criteria. It will mainly depend on:

• If you’re going for a single or annual multi-trips as mentioned above
• If you’re subscribing to upgrades such as cruise, business or gadget cover
• If you have pre-existing medical conditions
• The duration and destination of your stay
• If you’re travelling alone, with your partner, a group or your family
• The financial limits you’d like to get in case of a claim
• The excess amount you’re willing to pay
• What you will be doing abroad (winter sports).

What else should you pay attention to while shopping around for over 60 travel insurance?

While shopping around for holiday insurance for over 60, always pay attention to:

• The upper age limit of the policy you applied for.
• The compensation amount you will get in case of a claim by consulting our up-to-date reviews on each insurer (especially for medical expenses, trip cancellation, personal liability, baggage and personal belongings).
• The deductible amounts you’ll have to pay in case of a claim (don’t forget that you need to pay the excess on each claim).
• The exclusions you may have in your policy (sports, strike, cancellation trip due to carrier default, etc.).
• Coverage included in policies or available as upgrades (winter sports, business trip, etc.).
• The claim process (100% online? How many days do you have to make a claim?).
• The maximum duration of each trip included as standard (at least 31 days).

Never forget to disclose any pre-existing medical condition you may have to your insurer before leaving.

Alexandre Desoutter has been working as editor-in-chief and head of press relations at HelloSafe since June 2020. A graduate of Sciences Po Grenoble, he worked as a journalist for several years in French media, and continues to collaborate as a as a contributor to several publications. In this sense, his role leads him to carry out steering and support work with all HelloSafe editors and contributors so that the editorial line defined by the company is fully respected. and declined through the texts published daily on our platforms. As such, Alexandre is responsible for implementing and maintaining the strictest journalistic standards within the HelloSafe editorial staff, in order to guarantee the most accurate, up-to-date information on our platforms. and expert as possible. Alexandre has in particular undertaken for two years now the implementation of a system of systematic double-checking of all the articles published within the HelloSafe ecosystem, able to guarantee the highest quality of information.

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Which? recommends Age UK Travel Insurance

Published on 24 May 2012 11:00 AM

Age UK has become a Which? Recommended provider for Travel Insurance.

Age UK Enterprises is one of only four companies who made it onto Which?'s Recommended Provider list for travel insurance published today.

To become a Which? Recommended Provider a travel insurer must have a high quality product and above average customer service.

Gordon Morris, Managing Director of Age UK Enterprises, commented: 'We're delighted that our customers have voted for us and made us a Which? Recommended Provider for travel insurance.

'At Age UK, we believe that people should be able to fulfil their travel aspirations - no matter what age they are. This is why we offer a travel insurance policy that has no upper age limit and provides cover for pre-existing medical conditions wherever possible.

'We want to make sure our customers get what they expect and don't receive any unpleasant surprises, so our product comes with low excess payments and no hidden fees. Our customers value the choice we provide to purchase our travel insurance through our UK based call centres, online and face to face through our network of over 200 local offices.'

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Last updated: Dec 05 2018

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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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