saga travel insurance cover

Saga travel insurance review

Saga travel insurance review highlights:

• No upper age limit
• Covers most pre-existing medical conditions
• Comprehensive cover as standard with Saga's 5 Star Defaqto Expert Rated Insurance
• Insures against some coronavirus scenarios

Get a Saga travel insurance quote

Who is Saga?

Saga is a British based holiday and insurance specialist for the over 50s. Having started life as a Folkestone based travel company in 1951, Saga now owns its own cruise ships, has a chartered fleet of river cruise ships and offers a wide range of insurance and financial products including car insurance, home and health insurance and equity release.

What does it cover?

Saga provide single trip and annual travel insurance for the over 50s . Their travel insurance is comprehensive, includes cruise insurance as standard and has no upper age limit. It also covers most pre-existing medical conditions and over 40 popular leisure activities.

Here’s how each option works:

Saga single trip holiday insurance

Single trip travel insurance covers you for a single trip to one or more destinations for up to 120 days. This includes the following services as standard:

• Up to £10,000 cancellation cover
• Up to £10 million emergency medical cover
• Up to £5,000 baggage cover
• Up to £1,500 for a replacement flight
• Up to £1,500 enforced stay cover
• Up to £5,000 substitute accommodation cover
• Up to £10,000 abandonment cover
• 24/7 travel helpline
• Flexibility to add family and friends under 50 years of age

Compare Saga travel insurance

Saga annual travel insurance

Annual travel insurance provides the same benefits as single trip insurance with one big difference. You are covered for multiple trips throughout the year. This includes insurance for up to 120 days per year, with a maximum of up to 45 days per trip and with an option to increase this to 60 or 90 days for some regions.

Depending on the level of cover you choose, Saga travel insurance protects you in the following regions:

• Worldwide excluding USA, Canada, Mexico and all Caribbean islands

Take a look at over 50s travel insurance

Does Saga offer coronavirus travel insurance cover for the over 50s?

Saga travel insurance now includes standard covid-19 cover should you test positive for coronavirus within 14 days of travel. It also provides cover should your holiday be cut short due to coronavirus, plus up to £10,000,000 of emergency medical expenses and repatriation fees to get you back home.

It's worth mentioning that although no cover can be provided if you travel to a country where the FCDO advise against all travel, Saga are willing to offer cover if the FCDO has advised against all but essential travel. If you travel to a country where the FCDO has advised against all but essential travel, for a non-essential reason, you’ll have no cover in place for any policy section if the reason for your claim is related to why the FCDO advice is in place, for example COVID-19. This is subject to there being no other government restrictions in place prohibiting travel. If you travel for essential reasons, then you will have full policy coverage in place.

How much does Saga travel insurance cost?

The cost of Saga travel insurance depends on the traveller’s age, health and the type of cover required.

Am I eligible for Saga travel insurance?

To be eligible as the policy holder for Saga travel insurance you must be at least 50 years of age however there is no upper age limit. You must live in the UK and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, or your policy could be invalid.

Saga will only look to provide cover for diagnosed medical conditons therefore if you are under investigation or awaiting test results of an undiagnosed condition, no cover will be available.

Is Saga travel insurance any good?

My review of Saga travel insurance is designed to help you compare plans and find the best option for you. I would always recommend that you review all of your options to ensure you’re getting the best deal that suits your budget and needs.

Saga travel insurance has the highest possible Defaqto rating. It also has a Trustpilot score of 4.6 out of 5 for all its insurance products. This means both customers and consumer champions alike rate Saga travel insurance as excellent.  

With no upper age limit and cover for most pre-existing medical conditions, Saga offers comprehensive travel insurance as standard. This means it’s simple to arrange yet still offers flexibility to tailor the policy by changing the excess, adding additional travellers and changing the level of cancellation cover.

How to get a Saga travel insurance quote

To get a Saga travel insurance quote, visit their website for more details.

Getting a quote is easy and there is no obligation to proceed.

Travel insurance for over 50s

Frequently asked questions

Who is saga travel insurance underwritten by.

Saga Travel Insurance is underwritten by Astrenska Insurance Limited, which meets our high standards of quality and service.

Does Saga travel insurance cover include repatriation?

Saga travel insurance includes repatriation fees as part of the £10 million emergency medical cover. This includes your repatriation if it is medically necessary and one friend or relative if the doctor thinks it’s appropriate.

Do Saga holidays and Saga Cruises include travel insurance?

All overseas Saga Holidays and Cruises include optional comprehensive travel insurance, subject to a medical screening. However, should you prefer to choose your own travel insurance, a price reduction would be available.

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Saga travel insurance review: What do you get for your money?

Saga travel insurance is seen by many as the best option for over 50s. On the surface, it appears to offer everything from single trips to annual travel insurance, flights and cruise travel insurance and more. But what exactly does Saga travel insurance cover? Does Saga travel insurance cover pre-existing and long-term medical conditions? How much flexibility is there on premiums?

Saga travel insurance: FAQs

Does saga travel insurance cover issues relating to covid-19.

Thankfully, Saga reacted quickly to the challenges of Covid-19 and the potential for significant additional expenses. Whether you require treatment, other accommodation or repatriation, there is specific cover available .

Do Saga holidays include travel insurance?

All holidays booked directly through Saga include the option of comprehensive travel insurance . However, where you choose to take travel insurance from another third party, this will be reflected in the reduced cost of your Saga holiday.

Can I add others to my Saga holiday insurance?

There is the option to add others to your Saga holiday insurance policy . For example, where you take out a multi-trip policy, not only can you add family and friends of any age, but you don't need to travel together.

While many well-known travel insurance companies today have little history, this is not a criticism anyone can aim at Saga . Saga was founded in 1959 with a simple focus: to cater for over 50s regarding insurance, holidays, financial services and healthcare. The fact that Saga travel insurance is, for many, the first port of call today says everything about the company's reputation. While we are focusing on travel insurance, it's worth noting you can obtain other types of cover such as home and car insurance through Saga.

Let's look at  Saga travel insurance , how much it costs, how flexible cover is, and the company's approach to existing medical conditions.

Whether you're looking for single-trip, multi-trip, or specialist cover, or need assurance about pre-existing medical conditions, our panel of travel insurance providers has you covered. Click on your chosen provider below to get started.

• Some restrictions based on age

Do I qualify for Saga holiday insurance?

As we touched on above, Saga is focused on an array of different services for over 50s. Consequently, to qualify for Saga holiday insurance, you should:

• Be at least 50 years of age
• Live in the UK
• Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions

While Saga will not request a medical certificate or direct advice from your doctor, the onus is on customers to be truthful when completing the online or telephone medical questionnaire. If medical information has been withheld, this may invalidate your cover.

Unlike many travel insurance providers, Saga has been able to keep things relatively simple and avoid customers having to overcome numerous hurdles. When it comes to regulatory cover, as a provider of insurance products, Saga travel insurance is covered by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Different types of Saga travel insurance

Two central travel insurance policies are available with Saga, single trip travel insurance and annual multi-trip travel insurance. Note there is no upper age limit with Saga travel insurance products.

Saga single trip holiday insurance

While the Saga single trip policy only covers you for a single trip, this can include multiple destinations. Cover is valid for one trip a year, up to a maximum of 120 days, which may include an array of leisure activities. Compared to other insurance providers, Saga single trip policies can be a little more expensive. Still, you get what you pay for - as demonstrated by reviews on the Defaqto and Trustpilot websites.

This insurance product offers comprehensive cover that includes:

There is also a 24/7 travel helpline and the ability to add friends and family under 50 to your policy. While the above figures are standard, you can increase and reduce different types of coverage to lower the cost of your Saga insurance premiums.

Saga annual holiday insurance

As you would expect, Saga annual travel insurance policies offer precisely the same cover as the single trip policy. However, you're covered for multiple trips, up to 45 days per trip, for up to 120 days per year.

Worldwide travel insurance

When you begin to dig a little deeper, you become aware of the flexibility available with Saga travel insurance. There are three primary levels of cover:

• Worldwide excluding USA, Canada and the Caribbean

If you are travelling predominately within Europe, European-focused travel insurance is cheaper than the worldwide cover. As we go through the various elements of Saga travel insurance policies, you will become aware of the enhanced degree of flexibility.

As a side note, more relevant with the onset of Covid-19, you would not be covered for countries listed as dangerous on the UK government  travel advice website . So it is essential to keep up with the latest news.

Medical conditions

Unlike many travel insurance companies, Saga does not exclude any  pre-existing medical conditions  when offering comprehensive cover. Consequently, Saga holiday insurance is very popular with over 50s, the company's prime target market. At times, the cost of Saga travel insurance policies can sometimes appear higher than others in the marketplace. However, it is important to compare like for like. Not all travel insurance companies will offer the same level of comprehensive cover for over 50s.

When obtaining your travel insurance quote, you will be asked to complete a simple health screening review online or over the phone. This ensures Saga is aware of any potential medical issues, thereby ensuring your policy remains valid.

Awaiting results of medical tests

Unfortunately, if you are awaiting the results of medical tests, you will not be able to secure cover. However, as soon as you receive the results, you will be free to apply for cover, whatever the condition.

Am I covered for Covid-19 with Saga travel insurance?

Saga travel insurance covers you for the following scenarios:

Cancellation of holiday

In the event of a positive coronavirus test within 14 days of your travel commencing, for either:

• A close relative
• A member of your travelling party

You will receive a payment covering:

• Unused travel expenses
• Accommodation
• Planned excursions
• Prepaid charges
• Other contracted payments

Abandonment

If you are forced to cut your trip short because of a positive test for Covid-19, you will receive payment for expenses as detailed above. The test could relate to you, a family member, someone you are staying with or a member of your travelling party.

Emergency medical expenses/repatriation

We only need to look at additional expenses incurred when receiving Covid-19 related treatment in the UK to appreciate overseas fees and the cost of repatriation. For example, Saga travel insurance includes up to £10 million in medical expenses and repatriation costs should Covid-19 impact you. In addition, the traditional £5,000 health insurance-related cover for UK holidays has been increased to £2 million due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As discussed above, Covid-19 related travel insurance cover will be invalidated if you travel to a country subject to UK government restrictions. Therefore, when taking out your Saga travel insurance, it is essential to discuss your travel plans and how they may or may not be impacted by Covid-19. Take nothing for granted!

Standard features of Saga travel insurance policies

On the surface, Saga travel insurance products may seem a little more expensive than other insurance providers. As ever, the devil is in the detail. It is only when you dig a little deeper that the differences become apparent. We will now expand on the earlier list, which shows the standard features you can expect for single and multi-trip insurance cover:

Alternative accommodation

You can claim up to £5,000 for alternative accommodation and transport costs should any of the following impact you:

• Natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes
• Insolvency of the provider
• An outbreak of food poisoning
• An episode of infectious disease

The fact that this is standard for all Saga travel insurance policies should give you peace of mind.

Transport issues

If your scheduled airline goes out of business before or after departure, an additional £1,500 is available to cover alternative arrangements.

Enforced stay

In the event of an enforced stay, you can claim £100 for each 24-hour delay, up to a maximum of £1,500. This may involve difficulty:

• Reaching your destination
• Returning to pre-booked accommodation
• Returning home

If after 24 hours you're forced to make alternative arrangements, getting to your destination/returning home, you can claim expenses of up to £1,000.

Missed departure

There is also cover available if you miss your departure for any of the following reasons:

• Public transport delays
• Delay to a connecting flight
• Denied access to your flight (overbooked)
• Vehicle breakdown or accident on the way to the departure point

Up to £1,000 is available for extra accommodation or travel costs required to get you to your final destination.

If you are forced to abandon your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, Saga covers you up to £10,000. This can be used to reimburse unused travel and accommodation expenses and other prepaid charges. You are also covered for new flight tickets home.

Saga travel insurance helpline

As part of the comprehensive cover offered by Saga, you'll also have access to the Saga travel assistance helpline 24/7. This worldwide service offers assistance about an array of issues, including:

• Replacement of passports, driver licenses, air tickets and other travel documents
• Tracing luggage if lost or delayed
• Contacting your local embassy/consulate
• Sourcing additional funds from the UK if required
• Guidance and assistance for your family if you are admitted to hospital
• A "phone home" service if you are detained for medical treatment
• Translation/interpretation services if required

It is fair to say that considering the numerous elements of cover provided as standard by Saga travel insurance policies, together with the helpline, this is a comprehensive offering.

How much does Saga travel insurance cost?

One of the benefits of Saga travel insurance is that you can mix and match, and there is excellent flexibility with no upper age limit. For example, a 60-year-old individual looking at a self-catering holiday to Spain would expect to pay around £33 for single trip cover. However, this would increase to just over £60 for Saga's annual holiday insurance cover.

These two premiums are based on:

• An excess of £150
• £10,000 of cancellation cover
• No winter sports
• No additional travellers

There are also other policy elements that you can remove, increase or decrease depending upon your requirements. For example, you may not require any medical cover if you already have overseas medical insurance through another party. If you are uncertain about the level of cover you need, speak to a Saga representative on the telephone. For those who are clear about their requirements, there is an online system where you can get a quote 24/7.

Does Saga travel insurance offer value for money?

If you look at the Trustpilot and Defaqto review websites, you will see that Saga travel insurance for over 50s has received high praise indeed. Whether it is the fact that existing medical conditions are catered for, the vast range of standard cover or the flexibility available, Saga travel insurance is extremely popular. Consequently, it is safe to say that independent third-party feedback from policyholders suggests Saga offers good value for money.

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Saga Travel Insurance Review: Nice Features and No Upper Age Limit

• Insuring older travellers
• Covering end supplier failure
• International flight delays
• Including baggage, personal belongings, trip delay/cancellation/curtailment
• Insuring trips in the UK
• Reimbursing for lost rewards points

Editor's Rating

The guidance on this site is based on our own analysis and is meant to help you identify options and narrow down your choices. We do not advise or tell you which product to buy; undertake your own due diligence before entering into any agreement. Read our full disclosure here .

Compare Cheap Travel Insurance

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Saga offers one, simple travel insurance plan to those over 50 years of age (with no upper age limit) when you buy direct and one different plan (that is cheaper but with less coverage) through comparison sites. We like that Saga includes cover for End Supplier Failure , some catastrophe cover and a higher level of Personal Belongings/Baggage cover on all policies (plus Golf). Another stand-out perk is that travellers whose international flight is delayed more than an hour can benefit from access to a LoungeKey airport lounge (part of Trip Delay cover)—if you bought direct from Saga and not via a comparison site.

In This Review

• Customer reviews
• Saga Travel Insurance Price Comparison

Notable Features

• Saga Travel Policy Limits and Coverage Options
• Comparing Saga to the Competition
• Saga Travel Policy Wording and Claims

Saga Travel Insurance Review: What You Need to Know

Saga keeps the insurance-buying process easy by offering one comprehensive tier of Travel Insurance, and they now offer special cover related to Covid-19. Strong customer reviews make a further case for buying a Saga policy, in addition to some solid features.

Policies include Trip Cancellation, Emergency Medical, Trip Delay/Missed Departure, Legal Assistance, Personal Accident, Personal Belongings and Golf cover. Those who like to ski can add Winter Sports cover for an additional cost. Not surprisingly, the cost of the Winter Sports add on rises quickly with age.

Anyone planning a longer trip can extend the maximum trip length to 90 days, but only if you are travelling outside the U.S.A., Canada, Mexico or any Caribbean Islands. If you’re travelling to those countries then the maximum trip length is 45 days on an Annual, Multi-Trip policy or 120 days under a Single Trip policy.

Those who struggle with sitting in an airport for hours may like Saga's Delayed Flight Assistance, which gives you access to an airport lounge if your international flight is delayed for an hour or more. This feature provides a bit of peace of mind and comfort for international travel—be sure to pre-register your flights with Saga ahead of time to be eligible for this perk—but this is only available on policies bought direct from Saga, not a comparison site.

Those going on a cruise can get cover for cabin confinement, emergency airlift to hospital, missed port and unused excursions. To learn more about market prices please see our article Average Cost of Cruise Travel Insurance UK .

Does Saga Travel Insurance Cover Trips in the UK? Holidays in the UK are covered under Saga policies, so long as you stay in pre-booked holiday accommodation or the accommodation of a relative or friend who resides in the Channel Islands for at least 2 consecutive nights (Annual, Multi-Trip policies only) or 1 night (Single Trip). However, note that some features are not offered for UK trips and coverage limits may be lower.

Pre-Existing Conditions: Saga may be able to offer cover for your pre-existing medical conditions, buy you may pay a higher premium. Pre-existing conditions are only covered if they've been declared by you and accepted by Saga. As part of the online quote process you can declare your conditions to see if cover can be offered, and for what cost.

Over 65s: There is no upper age limit for Saga Travel Insurance policies; there is, however, a lower age limit of 50 years of age. This age limit only applies to the main policy holder—other travellers you add to your policy can be of any age. There is no upper age limit for Winter Sports cover, but Winter Sports premiums will rise with age .

Insuring Other Travellers: Those you’ve listed on your Annual Multi-Trip policy can travel independently (without you) and still benefit from the same cover as you. This cover extension does not apply to Single Trip policies.

Covid Cover: Saga now offer cover for cancellation or abandonment if you receive a positive test result in writing for Coronavirus within 14 days of your trip’s departure date, as well as emergency medical cover and repatriation if you fall ill with COVID-19 while on your trip.

Covid-19 Cover

Saga now offers cover for cancellation or abandonment if you have a positive Coronavirus test result within 14 days of your departure date. Plus you get emergency medical cover and repatriation if you fall ill with Coronavirus while you're on holiday. Read more here about Saga's Covid cover.

Here is a sample of some of the coverage you get (and don't get) for Covid from Saga travel insurance before you travel:

Saga Travel Insurance Key Points

• Travel insurance for those at least 50 years of age (no upper age limit)
• Annual, Multi-Trip cover for trips up to 45 days each (total 120 max days per policy year)
• Single Trip cover up to 120 days
• Includes End Supplier Failure, Catastrophe, Baggage, Golf, lounge access for int'l flight delays, etc.
• Optional extras: Winter Sports and Hire Car Excess Waiver
• Average 25% discount online
• Choice of excess on direct policies of £70, £150 or £250

Saga Insurance Customer Reviews

Over 38,000 customers have awarded Saga plc a solid 4.3 out of 5 on Trustpilot . Common themes amongst the comments were good value (cheap prices), easy-to-use website and friendly/knowledgeable staff on the phone lines. This rating reflects Saga as a whole, not just their travel insurance.

Here is a sample of the mostly positive experiences:

"What a quick, simple process. I had been told by friends this was the case and that I should try Saga for travel insurance first. They were absolutely right. I have already recommended Saga to my partner. In, fact, I would recommend Saga to anyone who asks." "I got my requested travel insurance at a fair price. I did have a bit of trouble with the web site, which might have been due to a poor connection. I used the 'chat' feature and got prompt and helpful advice." "I was so relieved that Saga made the application for travel insurance quite easy to do. I panicked when it directed me to open my banking app but I was successful with their directions and it was approved. I’m not that good on the internet and am 75 years old but got this done so am very happy." "Just organised travel insurance through Saga. So easy. Competitive pricing. Covers exhausting health issues. Excellent Service from Samuel. Have a policy that caters for my needs. It was easy to purchase. Samuel gave me sound advice. He was patient and courteous. Excellent customer service all round. I do have other insurance products with Saga. I do recommend their services both to family and friends. Thank you Samuel. You were outstanding. Good luck in your future career with Saga" "Fantastic service all round and great prices." "Excellent, as ever. Always good price and great service." "Brilliant trustworthy and always give the maximum help when you contact them. I will never change back to other insurers.... you need someone who really has your best interests at heart when things are difficult and are prepared to really listen and give support in any form. Top rating and then some!!" "I have tried to ring them 9 times, waiting in the phone for over 35 mins. Sent emails asking for someone to ring, that was 3 weeks ago, still waiting!" "We made a claim earlier this year for the theft of luggage on the travel policy. The amount offered in settlement we believe was unrealistic and unfair. After lodging a complaint and receiving a decision from Collinson Insurance, who act for SAGA we have made no progress towards a increased settlement figure. Perhaps we should have insured with Zurich as our traveling companions did who made a virtually identical claim and received a prompt and realistic settlement to their claim. Not recommended." "We had a travel insurance policy with SAGA Services, which we had to claim under due to C-19 in April 2020. On 11th June 2020, SAGA agreed the claim, by email, in full and promised to pay the amount due within 5 days. After 6 days we called them as no money had been received , they confirmed the claim and apologized for the delay. After 10 days we called back and they then said they had made an error , and despite them having sent an email agreeing the claim they were no longer going to pay it, as it had been an error. Since then I have written to the CEO's office twice and received two letters claiming it isn't their problem , as the mistake is with the insurance company. In short you can't rely on anything they say..."

Saga Travel Insurance Prices

While travellers of any age can get a Saga travel insurance policy, premiums rise significantly as travellers age—especially for worldwide coverage including the USA. To get an understanding of how age affects prices, we gathered sample quotes of Saga Travel Insurance across various age groups (50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 years of age).

Insurance quotes can vary significantly from day to day and according to your individual details, so please just use the pricing data in this article for general educational purposes only; your quotes may reflect a large degree of variation to quotes listed here.

Premiums with Pre-Existing Conditions

Travellers with Pre-Existing Conditions will pay more for travel insurance, in nearly all cases. The additional premium will depend on a lot of factors, such as your age, the geographic coverage (e.g. it's more expensive to cover medical conditions in USA than Europe), type of pre-existing condition (some are riskier than others), health history (e.g. were you a smoker? are you on new medication?), etc. Trips to Europe are more cost effective than the USA, when you have pre-existing conditions.

For instance, our data analysis of prices from the Saga website shows that common conditions of high blood pressure and cholesterol cost 38% or 51% more for a 70 year old going to France or the USA, respectively. And for someone who's had a heart attack, stent and heart bypass, the premium increases are 74% and 151%, respectively.

How Expensive is Saga Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions?

How much does winter sports add-on cost.

The cost of Winter Sports cover practically doubles with every decade of age. While Saga will sell Winter Sports cover to you regardless of age, it doesn't come cheap, especially for older travellers to North America. For instance, we found that Winter Sports cover for an 80-year old heading to Aspen would cost over £500.

After reading through the Saga travel insurance policy documents, we feel these are the most notable features. In addition, standard features like Medical and Personal Liability are also included on Saga policies, limits for which can be found below . For more complete details like inner limits and exclusions, please see the policy documents .

Types of Saga Travel Insurance Policies

Saga offers one level of travel insurance cover when you buy direct, and they offer one level of cover when you buy from a comparison site—but the limits vary between these two options. Policies bought direct are expected to be more expensive, because they have higher cover limits across many categories.

Regardless of where you buy, you can purchase as an Annual, Multi-Trip policy or a Single Trip policy.

Saga Single Trip: Saga Single Trip travel insurance covers trips up to 120 days abroad.

Saga Annual Multi-Trip: Saga Annual, Multi-Trip policies cover trips up to 45 days in length (with the option to extend to 60 or 90 days on policies excluding travel to USA, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean Islands). Within each policy year, you can travel as many time as you want provided your total time abroad doesn’t exceed 120 days.

You can add Winter Sports and Hire Car Excess Waiver cover to all policies; Golf is already included as standard. Note, policies have lower limits/fewer features for UK-based holidays .

Cover Limits for Policies Bought Direct (Single & Annual Multi-Trip)

Cover limits for optional winter sports travel insurance (direct policies only), cover limits for saga golf travel insurance (included).

Please read some of our Travel Insurance Guides if you're trying to decide between Single Trip or Multi-Trip policies, learn about What May Not be Covered by Travel Insurance or decide if you Need Travel Insurance or Not .

How does Saga Travel Insurance Compare to Competitors?

To better understand the value of Saga travel insurance you need to look at it in the context of other available options. We compared it to other plans in the market so you can see which may be more suitable for you.

Saga Travel Insurance vs Direct Line Travel Insurance

Direct Line travel insurance plans include cover for End Supplier Failure and Natural Disasters, plus cover for the replacement cost of used points or miles in case of Cancellation/Curtailment for a trip bought with air miles or another rewards structure . While prices are a bit higher than average, according to our analysis, you are getting these extra cover features. One surprising extra is Baggage—you'll need to pay extra to cover your personal belongings as they're not included as standard. There is an upper age limit of 75 years old for Direct Line Multi-Trip policies; there is no upper age limit on Single Trip policies.

Bottom Line: If you book trips with miles, Direct Line might offer better cover since they reimburse for used miles/points if your trip is cancelled or curtailed.

Saga Travel Insurance vs AXA Travel Insurance

In our opinion, AXA travel insurance offers solid cover for reasonable prices. Insolvency, Baggage, Cancellation/Delay/Curtailment and Catastrophe are included on all plans. Single trip policies an upper age limit of 80 years; the age limit for travellers on multi-trip policies is 75 years old. There is no upper age limit for Winter Sports cover, other than the policy age limits mentioned above. AXA is another provider for which you can select your pre-existing conditions online without calling in to customer service.

Bottom Line: AXA might be another solid option for travellers in their 50s, 60s and 70s, who can benefit from a simply online system for notifying of pre-existing conditions.

Other Useful Information

• Saga Travel Insurance Policy Book

Erin Yurday is the Founder and Editor of NimbleFins. Prior to NimbleFins, she worked as an investment professional and as the finance expert in Stanford University's Graduate School of Business case writing team. Read more on LinkedIn .

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11 June 2020, 13:28

SAGA introduces Covid-19 cover for travel insurance, holiday and cruise customers

Saga today announces that treatment abroad for Covid-19 and repatriation to the UK will be included as standard as part of its travel insurance policies for all trips from 1 st June. Saga has added the cover to help customers feel more comfortable travelling once the government advice changes to say that it is safe to do so.

The cover has been added across both standalone travel insurance products and the optional cover offered to all Saga holiday and cruise customers. The policy update will compensate and care for customers should they fall ill with coronavirus while travelling outside the UK, including those with underlying health conditions.

As the UK eases out of lockdown, these changes have been introduced to provide customers with much-needed certainty about how these unprecedented times may impact their policy and plans for future travel. It is also in response to increasing customer demand - 74%¹ of Saga customers say that they would be unlikely to take out travel insurance if it didn’t cover Covid-19 risks.

These changes are the latest innovation for Saga’s comprehensive insurance and travel offering, which was one of the first to offer cover to customers stranded due to volcanic ash clouds, pay claims as result of scheduled airline failure, and offer cover for laptops when they had to be stored in the hold on certain flights.

As the external environment continues to change, Saga will continue to review its policy to ensure customers receive significant value from the cover. Customer feedback will be central to further Saga policy updates.

Kevin McMullan, Head of Product, Saga Health and Travel Insurance said : “Understandably, the current crisis has put travel plans on hold for many people. However, with the UK’s strict lockdown measures beginning to lift, more people may be planning both exciting and much needed trips away over the coming months. We recognise that this may be a daunting process, particularly for customers with underlying health concerns. We want to give people the confidence and reassurance that if they were to fall ill abroad, we’re there to help and get them back home safely.

“We’re continuing to review and innovate our products to ensure they work as well as they can for our customers. However, we know the impact of coronavirus is far-reaching. We’d encourage customers to contact us directly if they’d like to discuss their individual circumstances and how we can best support them through these uncertain times.”

Editors notes:

¹ Populus interviewed 7949 Saga respondents, all aged 50+, online between 21 and 26 May 2020

Saga’s Travel Insurance policies are underwritten by Collinson, providing Saga with a full-service solution from underwriting through to claims, assistance and medical screening for optional included travel insurance on Saga Holidays.

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers aged over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award winning Saga Magazine.

About Collinson

Collinson, is a global leader in influencing customer behaviour to drive revenue and value for its clients. The group offers a unique blend of industry and sector specialists who together provide market-leading experience in delivering products and services across four core capabilities: Loyalty, Lifestyle Benefits, Insurance and Assistance. Collinson provides unrivalled insight and expertise around affluent consumers and frequent travellers, creating and delivering products and services that increase engagement, loyalty and value for customers

Oliver Simmonds

What's included in a Saga holiday?

Our holidays include so much more than anyone else - you'll be surprised by just how much value we pack into each holiday.

Optional travel insurance on all holidays, including cover for over 400 pre-existing medical conditions

Saga Host available throughout your European holiday

Guided orientation walks at all hotels

Hosted drinks reception

Coach transfers under 90 minutes on all beach holidays

Live entertainment

Return economy flights

All airport taxes, fees and charges

Minimum of 20kg checked luggage

Free Wi-Fi on all European hotel stays

Hotel accommodation and meals as specified

Porterage of your luggage at your accommodation

Return transfer between your overseas airport and your accommodation

Overnight accommodation in the UK before or after your holiday

The use of executive lounge at selected UK airports

Optional flight upgrades to premium economy, business or first-class cabins (where applicable)

Accommodation upgrades Travellers’ cheques and foreign currency

Alternative holiday departures from many local airports on selected holidays

VIP door-to-door chauffeur service on all our tours from 2023^

Tour Manager available throughout your holiday Return economy flights, coach or rail travel as specified

All airport taxes, fees and charges Hotel accommodation and meals as specified

All tour travel in air-conditioned transport (where applicable)

Visits to many of the must-see sights

Cruise ship facilities and hotel accommodation as described

Plus, on all-inclusive tours all meals and a free bar are included too.

^Please note: VIP door-to-door travel service is not included on our Land of the Pharoahs tour departures.

Accommodation upgrades

Travellers’ cheques and foreign currency

With the widest choice of holidays and travel experiences than ever before, you can now personalise your trip so you are in complete control. All this is backed up by the high-standards and service you’d expect from Saga.

70 years’ experience

Experienced travellers have been enjoying great value Saga holidays for over 70 years.

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You’re in safe hands with Saga. We’re an ABTA member and your holiday is ATOL protected.

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We’re constantly monitoring prices and negotiating the best deals with our travel partners.

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Saga plc   Reviews

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Reviews 4.1.

38,455 total

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Easy & efficient paperwork

the forms were easy to fill in. it was helpful being given a chose to click on rather than having to write each answer & it also ensured nothing was forgotten by accident. very efficient with quote & information received quickly following payment

Date of experience : 26 April 2024

Easy website to manage

Easy website to manage, and I am 70 years old, decent price,the first company that they took into consideration mine and my wife's excellent 20 years no claims and accidents , most other insurance companies that does not mean a thing, they just bump the prices up because that is the trend !! As for SAGA, I truly recommend them VERY highly. Most of the insurance here are rip offs !! Welcome to rip off BRITAIN !! Except SAGA, they deserve every penny they get.

Date of experience : 19 April 2024

Trying to change my vehicle

Trying to change my vehicle Website has an error (can only purchase a new car from 2025) chat not available . On 3rd attempt of calling and call wait is still 15 minutes (waited longer) whilst listening to a message about exceptional service they strive to provide. Every time I call saga Uk I have awful trouble getting through - not great

online application

I found it reasonably straightforward to obtain a quote online for travel insurance policies concerning 3 different situations. I had a query so telephoned the helpline. The call was answered without undue delay and my question was answered in such a way that I was happy to proceed with the purchase of relevant insurances online

Date of experience : 16 April 2024

Exceptional Service

I feel I must commend Mr. James Huck for the exceptional service I received today. I was updating my Travel Insurance which I recently renewed with Saga. Mr. Huck went over and above my expectations in assisting me with my queries. He was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, even completing an application on my behalf as I was struggling with an on-line form. He clearly really enjoys his job as he told me it gave him pleasure knowing he was able to help people. He is certainly a perfect ambassador for Saga. Many, many thanks.

Date of experience : 10 April 2024

Instruction not followed

I asked for all necessary papers concerning the insurance policy to be sent by post but I am advised they will come by email only. Upon request on 19 April SAGA have agreed to send post all the documents to me.

Date of experience : 18 April 2024

Reply from Saga plc

Good evening, We will be happy to get your documents posted. If you can, please come and chat with us by going to www.saga.co.uk/chat and our team will be happy to help. Kind regards- Layla.

Used you before

Used you before, and was excellent then and the same this time :)

Date of experience : 08 September 2023

Travel insurance for a 2.5x month family holiday

+ve Got a very good price for annual travel insurance for Singapore and Australia which covered 90- days for a single trip due to visiting family, amazingly this was actually more than £1000.00 cheaper than a single trip!, also includes pre- advised medical issues. Should also get a 15% Topcashback on the money.. -ve Website kept initially hanging and had to be refreshed a few times

Date of experience : 05 April 2024

Straightforward explanations

Straightforward explanations: e.g. made it clear that I did not have to include my eczema as medication reviews did not count. Simple form filling. Thank you.

Date of experience : 13 April 2024

Saga/ Acromas Car Insurance Cowboys

Raised a complaint about my Third Party claim involving their car insurance company called Acromas .Still no useful response after 3 months.Avoid this bunch of Cowboys.

Date of experience : 01 April 2024

Good evening, I am so sorry to hear this. If you can email our claims team on [email protected] with your concerns, our team will be happy to help. Kind regards- Layla.

Making life easy with SAGA.

So easy making arrangements with SAGA. Thank you.

Date of experience : 24 April 2024

i was looking for good service/deal

i was looking for good service and great deal for my car insurance. i checked other qoutes but saga came out at the top of the class with a 3 year deal at the same price...

Simplicity - that is, very straightforward. My telephone call to your office was also positive because as well as being helpful the person (male) was English so I was able to understand him the first time without having to constantly ask him to repeat himself or speak slowly.

Date of experience : 03 April 2024

Not the cheapest

Not the cheapest, but you can actually speak to someone on the phone that you can understand. I had a couple of glitches when I bought their car Insurance, but it was soon sorted over the phone, the cheapo insurance out there is just that, you get what you pay for.

Insurance was fine but cancelling auto renewal a problem

The insurance might be fine, but having used them one year, they seem to (or at least imply by letter in post that they are entitled to and will proceed to) auto renew. Whether this is truly the case, I have no idea, but implying that the onus is on myself to contact them by phone to cancel (and therefore ensuring they have the opportunity for a sales pitch) is very sharp practice. Not impressed. Will be wary in future.

Date of experience : 21 April 2024

Good evening, We would only automatically renew you policy if you have previously opted in for this payment method or if you pay via direct debit. We would be happy to look into this for you if you still require assistance. Please feel free to come and chat with us by going to www.saga.co.uk/chat and speak with one of our team. Kind regards- Layla.

Very quick response and very good price…

Very quick response and very good price for couples travel insurance.

Date of experience : 23 April 2024

Having considered many Travel insurance…

Having considered many Travel insurance company's with medical conditions for a Annual policy (have not been outside the UK for 4 years), Have again purchased with Saga not the cheapest but 1 of the best with Defaqto rating & reviews. However never made a claim! & hope I never will hence why only 4 star.

Date of experience : 31 March 2024

Satisfactory on-line booking process

I expected a rather long winded process, but it was easier than I expected. I had to declare diabetes (which is now almost defeated by significant weight loss), my heart attack in 2017 and an ablation to correct atrial fibrillation in 2019. I have had no follow-up problems with either of these two latter events, and see a Harley Street surgeon once a year. He is very happy with my post operative recoveries. Your questionnaire was relatively easy to negotiate, and I had expected to speak to one of your underwriters

Date of experience : 09 April 2024

Impossible to Cancel

We got a letter saying my wife's policy would be renewed automatically. As it was nearly double the previous premium it made sense to cancel and insure with another company (which we have done). The only way to cancel a policy is to phone up. This we did, but gave up after waiting for half a lifetime. I went on line. The only option I could see was to change the payment details and Untick Auto Renew, which I did. Low and behold, my credit card was debited today, with no further communication from Saga. I phoned up and after 20 minutes spoke to a person who said they would have to transfer me to someone else. Fine. So after 3 minutes of silence the call was cut. I phoned again and waited for 30 minutes, spoke to the same person who said she would fetch somebody. 3 minutes later she came back and said there was nobody available who could help me, but she could arrange a callback tomorrow. It was not possible to action a cancellation without speaking to an Advisor. What is that all about?!!! I'm awaiting a callback tomorrow, before raising a Section 75 with the bank. I'm in the middle of a vacation and don't have time for this nonsense.

Hi there, I am so sorry to hear you have not been able to cancel on the phone with us. Please note that we can handle cancellations on our webchat and we will be more than happy to help with your request if you still require it. Please come an chat with us by going to www.saga.co.uk/chat and our team will be able to help. Kind regards- Layla.

While going through a difficult time I…

While going through a difficult time I encountered two ladies Vickie ( customer support ) and Claire from Saga home insurance.i have dealt with the good and bad but these ladies were the best .They have went above and beyond ..I couldn’t have asked for better ..wonderful service .

Date of experience : 02 April 2024

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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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The 5 Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

AIG Travel Guard »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

Trawick International »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• AIG Travel Guard

Buying travel insurance can be a smart move for most trips, but those who travel more than a few times a year should consider an annual travel insurance policy. Whether you regularly travel for business and/or take several vacations a year, annual travel insurance plans can help you get the coverage you need without having to price out and purchase protection every time you leave home.

If you find yourself in a situation where an annual plan makes sense, know that not all travel insurance companies offer this kind of coverage. You'll also want to consider the available annual travel insurance plans to see which options make sense for your travel style and the level of coverage you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Annual travel insurance plans all work in their own way, but the majority let travelers pay one annual premium for coverage that lasts for up to 364 days. These plans often limit the length of individual trips that are covered within the coverage year. Per-trip and annual limits on coverage can also apply.

In some cases, annual travel insurance plans require a deductible or coinsurance for certain types of coverage. If you're considering an annual travel insurance plan because you take multiple trips each year, make sure you read over the policy details and understand all coverage limits and trip limits that apply.

The cost of annual travel insurance typically varies based on factors like the age of the travelers applying, included benefits and coverage limits. You will want to shop around to compare plans across multiple providers using a platform like TravelInsurance.com or Squaremouth before you settle on a travel insurance policy.

To provide an example of the cost of annual travel insurance, U.S. News applied for a quote for two 40-year-old travelers seeking coverage for eight trips over a 12-month period. The Squaremouth travel insurance portal quoted policies with costs that range from $206 for the GeoBlue Trekker Essential plan to $610 for the Safe Travels Annual Deluxe plan by Trawick International.

Annual travel insurance can be worth it if you take multiple trips each year and want to make sure you always have coverage in place. After all, the alternative to having a multitrip policy is buying a new travel insurance plan for every vacation you take. That's not always feasible for frequent travelers who are always jetting off somewhere new – often at the last minute.

Just keep in mind that annual travel insurance plans tend to come with lower coverage limits than plans for single trips, and that you'll pay a premium for coverage that comes with comprehensive benefits and high limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Basic Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best for Medical
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• Trawick International: Best for the Cost

Tailor your annual travel insurance plan to your needs

Most plans include coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, travel delays, medical expenses, and more

Lowest-tier plans (AllTrips Basic and AllTrips Prime) come with no or relatively low coverage limits for trip cancellation

Most annual plans (except for AllTrips Premier) do not cover trips longer than 45 days

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to between $2,000 and $15,000
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to between $2,000 and $15,000
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to $50,000
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical transportation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for lost or damaged baggage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage delays
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $1,500 ($300 daily limit)
• Rental car coverage worth up to $45,000
• Up to $50,000 in travel accident coverage
• 24-hour hotline assistance and concierge service

Annual Travel Insurance Plan offers year-round travel insurance protection

Relatively high limits for medical expenses ($50,000) and emergency evacuation ($500,000)

No trip cancellation coverage and relatively low limit ($2,500) for trip interruption coverage

No coverage for preexisting medical conditions

• Up to $2,500 in coverage for trip interruption
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for trip delays of five-plus hours ($150 per day limit)
• Missed connection coverage worth up to $500
• Up to $2,500 in baggage insurance
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $1,000 for delays of at least 12 hours.
• Up to $50,000 for emergency medical expenses ($500 for emergency dental sublimit)
• Up to $500,000 for emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Up to $50,000 in accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
• Up to $100,000 in protection for security evacuation

Provides coverage worth up to $250,000 for emergency medical expenses

Tailor other included benefit levels to your needs

Coverage only applies to trips up to 40 days

Deductible up to $100 applies for emergency medical coverage and baggage and personal effects

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to between $2,500 and $10,000
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cancellation limit
• Up to $2,000 in trip delay coverage ($200 daily limit)
• Up to $1,000 in protection for missed connections
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses ($50,000 in New Hampshire)
• $750 dental sublimit within emergency medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($100 daily limit)
• 24/7 travel assistance services

Get annual coverage for medical expenses and routine medical care

High limits for medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation

GeoBlue plans don't offer comprehensive travel protection

Deductibles and copays apply

• Ambulatory and therapeutic services
• Inpatient hospital services
• Emergency medical services
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Preventive and primary care

Choose among three tiers of annual travel protection

Option for basic protection with affordable premiums

No coverage for preexisting conditions

Maximum trip duration of 30 days per trip

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $2,500 maximum per year
• Trip interruption coverage up to $2,500 maximum per year
• $200 per trip for trip delays (up to $100 per day for delays of 12 hours or longer)
• Up to $500 in coverage per trip for baggage and personal effects
• Baggage delay coverage up to $100 per trip
• Up to $10,000 for emergency medical expenses per trip
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage per trip
• Up to $10,000 in AD&D coverage
• 24-hour travel assistance services

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert who has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world. On a personal level, her family uses an annual travel insurance policy from Allianz. Johnson works alongside her husband, Greg – who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states – within their family media business and travel agency .

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Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Yes, in These 3 Scenarios

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

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The Best Travel Insurance Options for Seniors [Ages 65, 70, and Over 80]

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

306 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 98 U.S. States Visited: 45

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3134 Edited Articles

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Why Purchase Travel Insurance

The cost of travel insurance, preexisting conditions, travel insurance and medicare, covid-19 and travel insurance, world nomads — best for active seniors, allianz — best for annual multi-trip policies, best for covering covid-19 cancellations, best for preexisting conditions, best travel insurance options — age 80 and above, credit card travel insurance, final thoughts.

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Our senior years can be some of the most exciting years of our lives. If we’re fortunate, we’ll now have the time, and hopefully, the resources, to make our travel dreams come true.

As we age, however, traveling may pose some additional risks. We may be more likely to have health-related issues and therefore the need to seek medical attention during our journey. We may also have occasions where we need to cancel our plans due to health issues or the health of those around us.

Now, more than ever, we need to think seriously about purchasing travel insurance. The good news is that comprehensive travel insurance, regardless of your age, is widely available and relatively affordable. With that being said, chances are you could use a little help getting started with the process of finding and purchasing the right plan.

If you’re 65 years of age or older and thinking about purchasing travel insurance, don’t pull the trigger without reviewing the information in today’s article on travel insurance options for seniors.

Travel insurance can protect you from financial loss due to unforeseen events that can cause you to cancel your trip or disrupt your trip once it’s in progress. As we age and our health declines, we may be more likely to experience such an event.

Travel insurance can cover the following situations:

• You, a family member, or travel companion becomes seriously ill and you must cancel your trip
• You slip and fall while traveling abroad, require medical care, and are forced to stay in a foreign city until you can travel again
• You are on safari and break your ankle, requiring emergency evacuation to the nearest hospital

The types of coverage you can expect to find on travel insurance policies include the following:

• Emergency medical coverage
• Emergency evacuation
• Trip cancellation, trip interruption , and trip delay
• Baggage insurance and personal effects coverage
• Travel accident and accidental life insurance

You may also elect to add coverage such as cancel for any reason insurance (CFAR) , a waiver for preexisting conditions, or car rental insurance.

What You Need to Know About Age and Travel Insurance

It’s possible to purchase travel insurance at just about any age. If you’re healthy enough to travel, you’ll generally be able to find coverage. You’ll normally be paying more to purchase coverage as you get older, however, and most policies may have preexisting health stipulations.

As age increases, so does the cost of purchasing travel insurance . The good news, however, is that premiums tend to vary widely between companies who offer policies for older travelers, so it pays to compare.

The easiest way to compare policies is via insurance comparison sites such as SquareMouth , InsureMyTrip , or TravelInsurance.com . Travel comparison sites make it easy to compare travel insurance policy pricing and coverage options for all ages.

We’ve used these sites to find most of the comparison quotes provided in this article.

As we age, we’re more likely to have preexisting health conditions, which can be excluded from most travel insurance policies. Once again, the good news is that preexisting condition exclusions are generally limited to a specified timeframe previous to the effective date of your policy.

If you have shown symptoms or been treated within a specified time period before your trip, usually 90 to 120 days, your condition may not be covered for certain coverages such as trip interruption, cancellation, or emergency medical. Each company’s requirements may differ.

Also, on a positive note is that many insurers allow you to purchase a preexisting condition waiver when you purchase your policy.

Health insurance may or may not cover medical costs abroad. And even if there is coverage, evacuation costs may not be included. The same scenario exists with Medicare.

Medicare will not cover medical expenses incurred abroad . There are very limited situations where Medicare may grant coverage, such as if you reside in the U.S. and a foreign hospital (such as a Canadian hospital) is closer to your residence than the U.S. hospital, or you’re traveling through Canada to reach another U.S. state or territory. Also, several terms and conditions apply.

There are Medicare supplement policies you can purchase that can cover you while traveling abroad. You’ll pay a standard $250 deductible, have coverage for 80% of eligible expenses beyond that amount, and have a lifetime cap of $50,000 in coverage.

So even if you have Medicare, a Medicare supplement, or other health insurance policy, there can still be plenty of gaps in coverage when you’re traveling abroad.

For this reason, and the need for additional coverage such as trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage coverage, and more, it’s prudent to purchase travel insurance.

Bottom Line: Medicare will generally not cover medical expenses when you’re traveling outside of the U.S. and its territories and Medicare supplement and Advantage policies provide limited coverage. Travel insurance is a wise choice for covering medical expenses and for other travel-related events that could cause you to cancel your trip or disrupt your journey in progress. 

As we advance in age, the chance we will need to cancel a trip due to health-related issues increases. Fortunately, most travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations due to illness. However, travel insurance policies do not cover voluntary cancellations such as canceling your trip due to the fear of getting sick.

Cancel for any reason insurance (CFAR), when added to a travel insurance policy, will allow you to cancel your trip for any reason you deem necessary. It will even cover you if you simply decide not to go.

While CFAR insurance allows you to cancel your trip for any reason, including COVID-19-related issues, the coverage will not reimburse 100% of your costs. The coverage can only be purchased when you purchase your travel insurance or for a short window following the purchase. CFAR insurance can also be expensive.

Our article on COVID-19-related trip cancellations goes into a lot more detail.

Best Travel Insurance Options — Ages 65 to 69

Priorities change as we change and as a result, we may have different insurance needs at age 65 than we do at age 80. Here are some examples of travel insurance plans that might be a fit for travelers age 65-69.

If you’re under age 70, you’ll find comprehensive travel insurance coverage with World Nomads . What sets World Nomads apart from other insurance providers is that they’re experts at insuring active travelers who participate in adventurous activities.

While World Nomads does not offer CFAR insurance, COVID-19 is not excluded as an illness for trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage.

World Nomads only insures those travelers under age 70 and refers older travelers to its partner TripAssure .

For a traveler 68 years of age, traveling to the Netherlands for 8 days, with a total trip cost of $3,000, here are some sample costs.

The main differences in these plans are that the Explorer Plan covers an expanded collection of over 200 covered adventurous activities, has higher limits for trip interruption/cancellation/delay and emergency evacuation, and includes rental car insurance.

Secure your own quote from World Nomads .

Allianz simplifies purchasing travel insurance with its offerings of travel insurance package policies. You can select from single trip policies with several levels of coverage options or annual multi-trip policies that cover every trip you make during the policy period, even ones you haven’t yet planned.

If you travel frequently, or even a few times each year, purchasing an annual, multi-trip plan could be a cost-effective way to protect all your trips.

To learn more about Allianz and its policy offerings , you’ll want to check out our review for details.

Hot Tip: Be sure to compare the price of an annual multi-trip travel insurance policy to a single-trip plan, even if you are only currently planning 1 trip. You may find a better value in the annual multi-trip policy and not have to purchase additional coverage if you should decide to travel again during the policy period. 

Many policies will cover trip cancellation due to getting the virus, but none will cover cancellation due to the fear of getting the virus. To cover cancellations based on the fear of COVID-19, you’ll need a policy that allows you to add CFAR insurance .

The following are just a sampling of companies that offer this option on their policies.

• John Hancock
• Seven Corners

Please note that not every policy these companies offer allows you to add CFAR coverage.

For more information on travel insurance covering COVID-19 , we’ve put together an informative article.

Best Travel Insurance Options — Ages 70 to 79

There are a lot of reasons to embrace the wanderlust and travel in your 70s. By then, many have retired and perhaps have more money to spend on travel. There can also be a sense of urgency to travel while we’re still healthy.

As we’ve mentioned, however, as we age we are more apt to have health issues. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean we’ll be unable to purchase travel insurance. Even into our 70s, we’ll have plenty of travel insurance options, and coverage can still be affordable.

Since travel insurance is meant to protect you from unforeseen events, having a preexisting health condition may rule out any chance of coverage for that issue. However, several companies allow you to purchase a waiver so that preexisting health conditions can be covered.

Here are just a few companies that offer this waiver:

• Travel Guard
• Travel Insured

Each company has its own requirements for adding a preexisting condition waiver to your policy. You must purchase the policy within a specific time period, such as within 14 to 30 days after making your first trip deposit payment. You may also be required to insure the entire cost of your trip and your health must be medically stable when purchasing the coverage.

As a senior, it becomes more and more likely that we will actually have to use our travel insurance coverage as we age. However, even at age 80 or beyond, you’ll still find travel insurance widely available and relatively affordable. Some companies are willing to insure older travelers but charge higher premiums , so it’s wise to compare the pricing of several providers.

Above you’ll find a sampling of 4 SquareMouth quotes for single-trip travel insurance policies that include CFAR insurance for a traveler 80 years of age. The trip’s total cost was stated at $3,000 and was 8 days in length. Quotes ranged from $382 (Seven Corners) to well over $1,000 to insure the trip (not all quotes are shown). Coverage limits can also vary greatly, so it can be beneficial to compare policy limits.

If you’re looking to purchase travel insurance and you’re 80 years of age or older, it’s imperative to compare policies for the best pricing and coverage.

Hot Tip: Seniors ages 65 to 99 who are not interested in CFAR (cancel for any reason) insurance, may consider an annual multi-trip travel insurance plan. Allianz is a company that charges the same premium, regardless of age, for its annual plans for travelers ages 65 to 99 . 

There is 1 type of travel insurance that will cover you, regardless of age . U.S.-issued credit cards come with various types of travel insurance coverages that apply to all primary cardholders.

Typical travel insurance coverage found on credit cards includes the following:

• Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage insurance
• Car rental insurance
• Roadside assistance
• Travel accident insurance
• Travel assistance hotline

Premium credit cards such as The Platinum Card ® from American Express and Chase Sapphire Reserve ® also come with valuable emergency evacuation coverage. Additionally, the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card  is known for its comprehensive travel insurance benefits, including primary car rental insurance .

To learn more about which credit cards come with travel coverage, check out our article on the best credit cards for travel insurance benefits.

Bottom Line: The travel insurance benefits that come with U.S.-issued credit cards do not generally have age limits for coverage. However, many credit card travel benefits may be secondary to other insurance you might have. This means that you might first have to file a claim with your own insurance before the credit card insurance is valid. 

As seniors, purchasing travel insurance should be a priority for protecting your investment and preventing losses you might incur due to unexpected medical expenses during your travels.

With wide availability, regardless of age, it’s not only a prudent economic move, but it’s also a move that delivers peace of mind before and during your trip.

Finally, always make sure to compare policies as coverages and prices vary widely between travel insurance providers.

You can learn more about the best travel insurance companies for travelers  and the basics of travel insurance in our informative articles.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best travel insurance for seniors over 65.

Since travel insurance is widely available, even for seniors over 65, the best policy can be found by comparing companies and policies.

Using a travel insurance comparison site such as SquareMouth, InsureMyTrip, or TravelInsurance.com can assist you in comparing coverages and costs between only highly-rated financially stable travel insurance companies.

If you travel more than once per year, consider an annual, multi-trip, policy that covers any trip you take during the policy period.

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

Travel insurance is meant to cover unforeseen events. Once COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, it became a known event and is not covered as a reason for canceling your trip plans.

However, there are situations where COVID-19-related claims can be covered. If you become ill with the virus before or during your trip, you may be covered for trip cancellation, trip interruption, or emergency medical.

Does travel insurance cover preexisting medical conditions?

A standard travel insurance policy does not cover ongoing preexisting health conditions. However, many companies will insure you if you have a condition that is stabilized with medicine and no recent treatment has been sought. Requirements vary by travel insurance provider.

Also, many companies allow you to purchase a waiver that will then cover you for preexisting conditions.

Does credit card travel insurance cover flight cancellations?

The trip cancellation, interruption, or delay coverage that comes with your credit card does not cover voluntary flight cancellations.

The coverage does cover some flight cancellations due to unforeseen events such as becoming ill prior to, or during your trip. Coverage varies by credit card issuer but you will find a list of specific covered events in your card’s guide to benefits.

You can also call the number on the back of your card and speak with the claim administer.

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Understanding What Travel Insurance Covers

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• Travel insurance is intended to cover risks and financial losses associated with traveling.
• Coverage can include trip cancellation, baggage protection, medical care, and emergency evacuation.
• When filing a claim, be specific and comprehensive in your documentation to ease the process.

Whether it's a trip across the world or a trip across the state, having travel insurance provides major relief if things go awry. Flight delays, lost baggage, illness, injuries, and other unforeseen events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. With a major disruption comes the potential for unanticipated expenses.

Travel insurance and the coverage it offers can help keep you protected and save you money in the long run.

Overview of Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance policies protect travelers from financial losses should something go wrong during their trip. You can customize which coverages you want to include, and there are several to choose from.

"Common types of coverage include trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage protection, coverage for medical care if you get sick or hurt during your trip, and emergency medical evacuation," says Angela Borden, a travel insurance expert and product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners.

Travel insurance plans offer nonrefundable payments and other trip-related expenses. While monetary compensation is a primary benefit, there is another valuable perk of travel insurance. It can provide peace of mind.

What does travel insurance cover?

Your specific travel insurance plan (and its terms and conditions) will determine the minutia and specifics of what is covered. As with most other forms of insurance, a general rule of thumb is the more you spend, the better your coverage.

"Travel insurance can be confusing, so it's best to research a reputable company that specializes in travel insurance and has a long history of successfully helping travelers all over the world," says Borden.

Trip cancellation and interruptions

A travel insurance policy can reimburse you for a prepaid, nonrefundable trip if it is canceled for a covered event, such as a natural disaster or a global pandemic.

Trip interruption insurance covers you if you're already on your trip and you get sick, there's a natural disaster, or something else happens. Make sure to check with your travel insurance providers to discuss any inclusions, coverage, and more.

Travel delays and missed connections

Travel delay insurance coverage provides reimbursement for any expenses you incur when you experience a delay in transit over a minimum time. Reimbursements can include hotels, airfare, food, and other related expenses.

Medical emergencies and evacuations

Typically, US healthcare plans are not accepted in other countries. So travel insurance with medical coverage can be particularly beneficial when you are abroad. Medical coverage can also help with locating doctors and healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation coverage will also pay for emergency evacuation expenses such as airlifts and medically-equipped flights back to the US. Out of pocket, these expenses can easily amount to tens of thousands of dollars. Certain plans may even transport you to a hospital of choice for care.

Travel insurance generally does not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver, which we will talk about later.  

Baggage and personal belongings

Most airlines will reimburse travelers for lost or destroyed baggage, but be prepared for limitations. Travel insurance plans will typically cover stolen items, such as those stolen out of a hotel room. This may not include expensive jewelry, antiques, or heirloom items. Typically, airlines have a few days to recover your bag.

In the meantime, you can make a claim to pay for items like certain toiletries and other items you need to pick up. If your bag is truly lost or you don't get it for an extended period, you can file a true lost baggage claim.

What does credit card travel insurance cover?

A major perk on several travel credit cards is embedded credit card travel insurance . Typically, you will need to use the specific card for the transaction (at least with partial payment) for travel coverage to kick in.

Each card has specific rules on what exactly is covered. But one of the industry leaders is the $550-per-year Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. Here's a snapshot of what is covered with this specific card:

• Baggage delay: up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a passenger carrier delays your baggage by more than six hours.
• Lost and damaged baggage: up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment.
• Trip delay reimbursement: up to $500 per ticket if you're delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection: up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical evacuation benefit: up to $100,000 for necessary emergency evacuation and transportation when on a trip of five to 60 days and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Travel accident insurance: accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $1,000,000 for common carrier travel).
• Emergency medical and dental benefits: up to $2,500 for medical expenses (subject to a $50 deductible) when on a trip arranged by a travel agency and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Rental car coverage: primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to $75,000 on rentals of 31 days or fewer

More protections are included with cards with an annual fee, but there are exceptions. The no-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex , for instance, includes up to $1,500 per person (and up to $6,000 per trip) in trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage.

However, there are some differences between credit card travel coverage and obtaining coverage from a third party.

"Credit card coverage does not typically provide travel medical benefits," Borden says. "For protection if you get sick or hurt while traveling, you'll want a travel insurance plan with medical coverage."

Whether you get your travel insurance in a standalone policy or through a credit card, it's important to review your plan details carefully. In either case, there may be exclusions and other requirements such as deadlines when filing a claim, Borden notes.

What travel insurance coverage do you need to pay more for?

Knowing what travel insurance doesn't cover is as important as knowing what it does cover.

"Travelers should understand that travel insurance benefits come into play only if a covered reason occurs," Borden says. Most standard travel insurance plans won't reimburse you for the following:

Cancel for any reason (CFAR)

Cancel-for-any-reason travel insurance covers a trip cancellation for any reason, not just a covered event. your standard benefits won't kick in unless it's a covered event. For instance, you'll be reimbursed simply for changing your mind about taking a trip.

That said, CFAR travel insurance is not without its downsides. For one, it's more expensive than traditional insurance, and most CFAR policies will only reimburse you for a percentage of your travel expenses. Additionally, CFAR policies aren't available for annual travel insurance . 

You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance here.

Foreseen weather events

Sudden storms or unforeseen weather events are typically covered by standard travel insurance plans. There are exceptions to be aware of. For example, an anticipated and named hurricane will not be covered.

Medical tourism

If you're going to travel internationally for a medical procedure or doctor's visit, your travel insurance plan will not cover the procedure itself. Most medical travel plans also won't cover you if something goes wrong with your procedure.

Pre-existing conditions and pregnancy

Those with specific pre-existing conditions, such as someone with diabetes and needing more insulin, will not be covered by most plans. In addition, pregnancy-related expenses will likely not be covered under most plans.

That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver for stable conditions. In order to obtain a wavier, you will need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time frame from when you booked your trip, usually two to three weeks, depending on your policy.

Extreme sports and activities

Accidents occurring while participating in extreme sports like skydiving and paragliding will typically not be covered under most plans. However, many plans offer the ability to upgrade to a higher-priced version with extended coverage.

Navigating claims and assistance

When a trip goes awry, the first thing you should do is document everything and be as specific as possible with documentation. This will make the claims process easier, as you can substantiate and quantify your financial losses due to the delay.

For example, your flight home has been delayed long enough to be covered under your policy, you'll want to keep any receipts from purchases made while waiting. For instances where your luggage is lost, you will need to file a report with local authorities and document all the items you packed.

Cancellation protection also requires meticulous attention to detail. If you're too sick to fly, you may need to see a doctor to prove your eligibility. If an airline cancels a flight, you'll also need to document any refunds you received as travel insurance isn't going to reimburse you for money you've already gotten back. 

Part of the benefit of CFAR insurance is the reduced paperwork necessary to file a claim. You'll still need to document your nonrefundable losses, but you won't have to substantiate why you're canceling a trip.

Choosing the right travel insurance

Each plan should be personalized to meet the insured party's needs. Some travelers prefer to stick to the bare minimum (flight cancellation benefits through the airline). Others want a comprehensive plan with every coverage possible. Before you buy anything, set your destination. Are there any travel restrictions or changes pending? Does your destination country require emergency or other medical coverage?

If the destination airport is known for lost or delayed luggage, travelers should keep important items in carry-ons. Lost or delayed luggage coverage protects insured parties in the event of a significant delay or total loss.

Second, check current credit card travel benefits to avoid redundancies. Savvy travelers don't need to pay for the same coverage twice.

Finally, consider your individual needs. Do you have a chronic medical condition, or do you feel safe with emergency-only medical coverage? Keep in mind, this does not include coverage for cosmetic surgery or other medical tourism. Do you have a budget limit for travel insurance? Asking and answering these important questions will help every traveler find the right product.

Most travel insurance plans are simple, and Business Insider's guide to the best travel insurance companies outlines our top picks. Remember, read your policy and its specifics closely to ensure it includes the items you need coverage for.

No one likes to dwell on how a trip might not go as planned before even leaving. However, at its core, travel insurance provides peace of mind as you go about your trip. While the upfront cost may seem significant, when you compare it to the potential expenses of a canceled flight, emergency evacuation, or a hefty medical bill, it's a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things.

Get Travel Insurance Quotes Online

Protect your trip with the best travel insurance . Compare travel insurance quotes from multiple providers with Squaremouth.

What does travel insurance cover frequently asked questions

Does travel insurance cover trip cancellations due to a pandemic like covid-19.

Coverage for pandemics vary from policy to policy. Some travel insurance companies have specific provisions for pandemic-related cancellations, while others may exclude them entirely.

Are sports injuries covered under travel insurance?

Sports injuries are often covered under travel insurance, but high-risk or adventure sports might require additional coverage or a special policy.

Can travel insurance provide coverage for travel advisories or warnings?

Travel advisories have different effects on your travel insurance depending on your policy. Traveling to a country already under travel advisory may invalidate your coverage, but if you're already traveling when a travel advisory is announced, you may be covered.

How does travel insurance handle emergency medical evacuations?

Travel insurance usually covers the cost of emergency medical evacuations to the nearest suitable medical facility, and sometimes back to your home country, if necessary.

Are lost or stolen passports covered by travel insurance?

Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for the cost of replacing lost or stolen passports during a trip.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

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AIG Travel Guard insurance review: What you need to know

Whether you need an annual plan or a policy for a last-minute trip, travel guard can deliver..

Travel Guard is one of CNBC Select 's picks for best travel insurance , thanks to its wide range of customizable policies. But are any of them right for you? Below, we review the provider and its offers and how they compare to the competition to help you choose the right travel insurance for your next trip.

Travel Guard review

Other insurance offered, how it compares, bottom line, travel guard® travel insurance.

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

24/7 assistance available

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Travel Guard® is a global travel insurance provider specializing in plans for leisure and business travelers. Its online travel insurance packages include five options, from basic and last-minute trip coverage to more comprehensive plans. This allows travelers to pick a plan that best matches their situation.

For example, budget-minded travelers might go for the Essential Plan which offers basic protections, such as trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance, coverage for lost, damaged and delayed baggage, and medical, evacuation and death coverage.

On the other hand, the Deluxe Plan — the most comprehensive option — adds such extras as missed connection coverage, security evacuation, travel inconvenience benefits and more. It also boosts high limits for essential coverages.

Last-minute travelers can opt for the Pack N' Go Plan which only includes certain post-departure coverages. Or, if you travel often, the Annual Plan can cover your trips throughout the year.

Finally, Travel Guard offers "offline" travel insurance packages, meaning you'll have to call if you're looking for a specialty plan.

Coverage types

Depending on the plan, here are the types of protection Travel Guard can include in your package:

• Trip cancellations
• Trip interruption
• Baggage coverage
• Baggage delay
• Travel medical expenses
• Travel inconvenience benefits (reimbursement for such situations as runway delays, cruise diversion and other unforeseen situations)
• Medical evacuation
• Trip Saver (reimbursement for meals, hotels and transportation if you need to begin your trip sooner due to weather or airline changes)
• Trip exchange (reimbursement in case you have to cancel your trip and book a new one due to covered unforeseen circumstances)
• Security evacuation (due to a riot or civil disorder)
• Flight guard (coverage for accidental death or dismemberment that occurs when traveling by plane)
• Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver

You can also customize your plan with add-ons, such as car rental insurance and "cancel for any reason" coverage .

Travel Guard landed on our list of the best travel insurance companies thanks to its variety of coverage. With plenty of options to choose from, both online and offline, it's easy to build a policy that meets your needs.

Travel Guard also features 24-hour concierge services that you can use to book a new flight in case of an emergency or delay.

The provider's website also offers informational resources — here, you can check travel news, read safety tips and find general travel advice. Additionally, the website lets you modify your plan, file a claim and check its status, or apply for a voucher or refund.

As of writing, Travel Guard doesn't offer any discounts. That's common for travel insurance — you're more likely to find deals when shopping for other types of insurance, such as home and auto insurance .

Travel Guard is a portfolio of travel insurance and travel-related services offered by AIG Travel, a member of American International Group (AIG). AIG also offers life insurance and a variety of business insurance products.

Travel Guard makes it easy to get a travel insurance policy customized to your needs. But before you purchase coverage, it's always a good idea to shop around.

For example, if you're going on a cruise, you might want to look at Nationwide Travel Insurance . The provider advertises cruise-specific insurance with three plan options available. This type of coverage is designed with issues unique to cruises in mind — from ship-based breakdowns to missed pre-pard excursions.

If you're planning a more active trip filled with rock climbing or sky diving, Berkshire Hathaway offers the AdrenalineCare® plan which features coverage for unforeseen costs that result from participating in extreme sports on your trip, as well as reimbursement for sporting equipment delay. Pre-existing conditions are covered under this plan (if you meet qualifying conditions).

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has multiple plans to cover vacations from luxury travel to adventure travel. The brand's LuxuryCare offers the highest limits of travel insurance coverage offered by the company. Quotes and policies are available online.

As you can see, offerings vary by provider. It can be helpful to compare multiple companies and the plans they offer to find what works best for you. It's even better if you gather several quotes to ensure you're getting a good price for your policy.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Travel Guard offers plenty of ways to customize your policy, making it a solid choice for travel insurance. You can also access additional options by giving Travel Guard a call. However, make sure to check out other travel insurance companies too — comparison shopping is essential when picking any type of financial product.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of insurance products . While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

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