sainsbury's travel insurance for over 70s

Long stay travel insurance for over 70s: The biggest myth in the industry?

While the UK travel insurance market continues to develop, numerous myths might stop you from travelling. One such myth surrounds long stay travel insurance for over 70s, with many thinking this is impossible to secure. Fortunately, this is not the case!

• While historically challenging to find affordable long stay travel insurance for those aged over 70 - the market has changed.
• Many insurance companies include long stay travel cover as part of single trip and multi-trip policies.
• There is a growing trend for standalone long stay travel insurance cover for those into their 70s, 80s and 90s.
• As competition continues to grow we have seen a significant tightening of premiums, benefiting consumers over 70 years of age.

Long stay travel insurance for over 70s: FAQs

Is it possible to buy long stay travel insurance if i am over 70 years of age.

Yes. As you can see from the above list, many insurance companies recognise the growing number of people over 70 years of age looking towards extended travel.

Are there age restrictions on long stay travel insurance?

While the conditions will vary from company to company, you may find there are age and/or trip duration restrictions on some policies .

Do these policies cover pre-existing medical conditions?

The vast majority of long stay insurance policies will cover pre-existing medical conditions where the insurer has been informed. However, it is important to clarify the situation prior to paying for travel cover.

What if my trip is extended over the maximum insurance term?

If you have travel insurance for 90 days , or another specified period, and your trip ends up being longer, you would not be covered unless you negotiated an extension or new policy.

When looking for travel insurance for over 70s , there appear to be several restrictions at first glance. You will notice that some of the leading travel insurance companies reduce the maximum cover for single travel and annual policies for older clients. So, where do you start if you are over 70 and looking to take an extended break? 

Thankfully, there are a growing number of insurance companies offering extended travel cover for over 70s . Let’s look at what’s available and from what providers.

While there are no age restrictions with Free Spirit, there are limitations on extended travel. On the surface, it would appear that Free Spirit does not offer extended travel insurance for those over 76. 

However, if the duration of your trip extends beyond the time or age limit restrictions, you can contact the company directly. They will be able to quote you for single trip cover for an extended duration, moulded around your particular requirements.

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

While long stay travel insurance for over 70s can be challenging to find with some insurance companies, this is not the case with Globelink . This is available through the company's comprehensive annual insurance policy, offering:

• Trip durations up to 15 months, extended to 18 months with prior approval
• Long stay insurance is available up to 89 years of age

If you have any questions or queries, you can contact the company directly for more information .

Avanti offers a useful standalone long stay travel insurance policy if you're looking at extended trips. Further information is available on the website. However, the maximum length of cover reduces from 550 days if you're under 65 to 123 days if you're between 71 and 75. Consequently, it is sensible to contact Avanti directly to ensure you get the best deal for your travel plans.

Staysure offers a standalone long stay travel insurance package allowing over 70s to travel for extended periods. If you're between 71 and 75 years old, you can:

• Travel to European destinations for up to 366 days
• Travel to Bermuda, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Mexico, Singapore, Thailand, islands of the Caribbean and the USA for up to 123 days
• Travel elsewhere for up to 184 days

Over 75s can travel anywhere for up to 104 days with a standard single trip policy.

Whether travelling in the UK or overseas, a Saga single trip insurance policy covers you for up to 120 days. The Saga annual travel insurance policy traditionally covers you for trips up to a maximum of 45 days. However, there is the option to extend this to 60 days or 90 days for an additional payment.

Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz offers both single trip insurance, up to 180 days cover, and annual travel insurance, limited to 31 days cover per excursion. However, it may be possible to request an insurance quote moulded around your requirements.

AllClear Travel Insurance

AllClear Travel Insurance offers both single trip insurance for up to 94 days at a time, and annual travel insurance, limited to 45 days per trip as standard, but with the option to extend to 55 days. AllClear Travel Insurance also offers flexible long-stay travel insurance policies that you can tailor to your needs depending on destination and planned trip duration.

Medical Travel Compared

As Medical Travel Compared allows you to compare travel insurance policies from various providers, we cannot provide a definitive outline of cover parameters. However, such is the variety of policies available that you’re sure to be able to find a long-stay travel insurance policy for your needs, along with any other type of travel cover you may require.

Insurewithease.com

While not one of the mainstream insurers, Insurewithease.com offers an excellent package for those over 75 looking at long stay travel. The policy covers single trips of up to 3 months in length without any age limit.

RAC travel insurance is very competitive for over 70s looking at extended trips. There is no upper age limit on the single trip policy, which covers up to 94 days for any one trip. It is a little different for the annual multi-trip cover, with two of the three options offering up 62 days' cover per trip. However, the RAC Black Travel Insurance package covers a maximum trip of 92 days. The upper age limit for the annual multi-trip cover is 80 years of age at the start of the policy.

Post Office

Post Office travel insurance caters for over 70s, with some restrictions. When looking at economy, standard and premium single trip policies, they cover maximum trip durations for different age groups:

• Up to 70 years of age, one trip of 365 days
• 71 to 75, maximum trip duration of 90 days
• 76 to 85, maximum trip duration of 31 days

The maximum trip duration for annual multi-trip policies is up to 60 days, but there may be an additional premium.

esure offers two packages: 

• Single trip policies for those aged up to 84 with a maximum trip limit of 90 days. 
• Cover for up to 45 days per trip for those aged up to 74 with a multi-trip policy. 

Sainsbury's

Many people prefer to deal with recognised brands, which prompted the likes of Sainsbury's to enter the travel insurance market. The single trip travel insurance policy has no upper age limit with a maximum trip duration of 94 days. The platinum annual multi-trip policy offers cover for a maximum of 92 days per trip. However, there is an upper age limit of 80 for this policy.

Keen-eyed readers will also note that Sainsbury's offers an extended stay travel insurance package. Unfortunately, while providing cover for up to 548 days, this policy has an upper age limit of 65.

Busting the myths of long stay travel insurance for over 70s

Thankfully, competition in the UK travel insurance industry has prompted the emergence of numerous companies offering long stay travel insurance for over 70s . While many people focus on overseas travel, most of these policies also cover UK trips. The only condition with UK trips is a minimum of two consecutive nights in recognised accommodation facilities.

It is essential to look at the detail for each insurance provider as some offer long stay travel cover as part of a:

• Single trip policy
• Annual multi-trip policy
• Standalone long stay insurance package

Some travel insurance companies also offer an ad hoc service where they can provide a specific quote around the duration and destination of your intended trip. However way you look at it, there is significant competition and availability for those over 70 looking at extended travel insurance.

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

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

328 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Why purchase travel insurance, what you need to know about age and travel insurance, best travel insurance options — ages 65 to 69, best travel insurance options — ages 70 to 79, 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.

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.

The Cost of Travel Insurance

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.

Preexisting Conditions

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.

Travel Insurance and Medicare

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. 

COVID-19 and Travel Insurance

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.

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.

World Nomads — Best For Active Seniors

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 — Best for Annual Multi-Trip Policies

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. 

Best for Covering COVID-19 Cancellations

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.

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.

Best for Preexisting Conditions

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. The Amex Platinum card, unlike typical credit cards, allows you to carry a balance for certain charges, but not all. 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 .

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An essential guide to Travel Insurance for the over 70s

Planning a trip abroad is an exciting adventure, regardless of age.

For the over 70s, travel can bring new experiences and cherished memories. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the right travel insurance coverage in place to protect yourself and enjoy a worry-free vacation.

Get started with a quote from Silversurfers Travel insurance, provided by Staysure. Silversurfers members get a 20% discount

1. Why Travel Insurance Matters:

Travel insurance is a vital aspect of any trip, providing financial protection against unforeseen events. As we age, our health becomes increasingly important, making travel insurance even more crucial. While the NHS provides excellent healthcare within the UK, medical costs abroad can be exorbitant. Travel insurance safeguards you against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected incidents that may occur during your travels.

2. Understand the Age Limit:

When it comes to travel insurance, age is a significant factor. Some insurers may have an upper age limit, typically around 70 or 75, beyond which they may charge higher premiums or exclude certain medical conditions. However, there are insurance providers who specialise in covering older travellers, offering policies tailored to their specific needs. Look for insurance companies that offer coverage for those over 70 and consider obtaining quotes from multiple providers to find the most suitable and cost-effective option.

3. Declare Pre-existing Medical Conditions:

As we age, it is common to have pre-existing medical conditions. When purchasing travel insurance, it is vital to disclose any pre-existing conditions you have to ensure that you are adequately covered. Failure to disclose these conditions may invalidate your policy, leaving you liable for any medical expenses related to those conditions. By declaring your conditions, you can secure appropriate coverage and peace of mind.

4. Comprehensive Medical Coverage:

Healthcare costs abroad can be exorbitant, especially for older travellers. Look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical expenses, hospitalisation, and repatriation. Ensure that the policy covers both acute illnesses and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. A good policy should also include coverage for prescription medications, as well as emergency dental treatments.

5. Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage:

Unfortunately, unexpected events can sometimes disrupt our travel plans. Look for insurance policies that provide trip cancellation and interruption coverage. This will protect you financially if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, family emergencies, or travel advisories. Read the policy terms carefully to understand what events are covered and the maximum reimbursement limits.

6. Baggage and Personal Belongings Coverage:

Lost or delayed baggage can be a hassle, particularly when you’re far from home. Look for travel insurance policies that offer coverage for baggage and personal belongings. This will ensure that you are compensated for any loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and possessions during your trip. Make sure to check the coverage limits and any exclusions, such as valuable items or electronics.

7. Check for Travel Destinations:

Different travel insurance policies may have restrictions or exclusions based on the destination. If you have specific travel plans in mind, ensure that your insurance policy covers those destinations. Some policies may exclude countries with high-risk ratings or those affected by political unrest or natural disasters.

8. Length of Coverage:

Consider the duration of your trip when choosing travel insurance. Some policies have a maximum trip duration limit, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days. If you plan on taking extended trips, look for policies that offer options for longer durations or consider purchasing an annual multi-trip policy that covers multiple shorter trips throughout the year.

9. Compare Quotes and Policies:

Don’t settle for the first travel insurance policy you come across. Take the time to compare quotes and policies from different insurance providers. Look for comprehensive coverage at a competitive price. Consider factors such as the level of coverage, deductibles, exclusions, and customer reviews. Price shouldn’t be the only deciding factor; prioritise finding a policy that offers adequate coverage for your specific needs.

Get started with a quote from Silversurfers Travel insurance, provided by Staysure. Silversurfers members get a 20% discount.

10. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC):

For UK residents, it’s essential to carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the newer Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) when traveling within the European Economic Area (EEA). These cards provide access to state-provided healthcare on the same terms as local residents. While these cards are valuable, they do not replace the need for travel insurance, as they may not cover all medical costs or non-medical expenses.

11. Read and Understand the Policy Terms:

Before finalising your travel insurance purchase, carefully read and understand the policy terms and conditions. Pay attention to coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and any additional requirements or documentation needed in case of a claim. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the insurance provider directly for clarification. Being well-informed about your policy will help avoid any surprises and ensure you have the coverage you need.

Travel insurance is a vital component of any trip, particularly for the over 70s. By understanding the importance of travel insurance and following these essential tips, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind, knowing that you are adequately protected.

Remember to compare quotes, declare pre-existing medical conditions, and seek policies that offer comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and baggage protection.

With the right travel insurance in place, you can embark on your adventures confidently and make lasting memories around the world.

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Travel Insurance for Over 70s

Travel is one of the great bonuses of having more leisure time in old age. One of the challenges before even packing the suitcase though may be finding the best – and best value – travel insurance for over 70s. Insurers increase the price because they perceive the risk of illness or medical emergency increases with age.

• What's covered?
• Important considerations
• Keeping the cost down
• Travel advice

We have compiled this guide to over 70s travel insurance to help make the best decisions for peace of mind and wonderful holidays. As with any financial product, consult a regulated provider, and read the fine detail. This is particularly important with something such as holiday insurance for the over 70s and we explain why.

Why Travel insurance for the over 70s is important

There is a greater focus on medical and health cover in policies for the over 70s which may include:

• Medical costs – to cover expenses for treatments, medication and equipment
• Travel adjustments – due to medical requirements you may need to extend or shorten a trip
• Caring assistance – travel with a companion/carer
• Coronavirus cover – one of the most important at the moment you may be able to insure against medical expenses, cancellations and other issues related to Coronavirus

It is worth comparing different providers. Not all the big household name insurers will be able to help, and you may end up with a policy from a specialist insurer. You should be able to review them all on any number of comparison websites: as many of us know from bitter experience, the devil really lies in the detail, but these sites can be really helpful to get you started.

10 key tips about over 70s travel insurance

Upper age limit.

Make sure any policy under consideration doesn’t have age exclusions for those OVER a certain age – eg for an 80 year old an over-70s policy only includes those aged up to 79.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

You will need to provide details of all pre-existing medical conditions as they will likely impact the level of cover available;    you can read more about pre-existing medical conditions here .

Minimum Medical Cover

Different countries and continents have different medical costs, so depending on where you are going, be sure to have the right minimum level of medical cover; check also for medical transfers included in the policy; in a similar vein there will be different policies for travel in Europe to travel in the rest of the world.

Medical Equipment & Medication

If you need to take medical equipment with you then make sure its covered in the policy as it may be difficult to replace while you’re away.  This may also be true of certain regular medication, insulin for example (take enough with you – see below).

Travel Companions

Check whether other people you are travelling with can be included on your policy - they may not then need to take out their own insurance.

Cancellation Fees

Along with illness or injury, it is a good idea to check if bereavement is included in the policy. 

Length of Travel

Some insurers limit how long you can travel for in one trip if over a certain age. The exact length of time will vary between insurers and also depending on if you choose a single or multi-trip policy. 

Cruise Insurance

You may well need to get a specific add-on to a policy for a cruise or for a skiing holiday.

Level of Excess Payments

Check the level of excess you need to make before the policy will pay out.

Exclusions or Conditions

The devil is in the detail, so read carefully what other exclusions or conditions may apply (not even age related, but for example – leaving baggage unattended will cancel a policy, or taking part in an extreme sport not included on the policy…. Whitewater rafting or skydiving granny may need different insurance….).

The average cost of an annual travel insurance policy for the over 70s is £189.70

*Compare the Market data

The most popular holiday destinations for over 70s are Spain, USA, France, Italy, Portugal & Greek Islands

*MoneySupermarket.com

Keeping the costs down on travel insurance for over 70s

The cheapest travel insurance for over 70s isn’t always the best as it might not provide the right level of cover for your holiday, and it might also require higher excess payments before a claim is paid out.

In addition to our top ten tips, here are few considerations that may help with the costs:

• Shop around and compare prices for the specific circumstances you have – pre-existing medical conditions, destination, length of holiday etc; (the dear old Post Office is also worth considering, with a long history of providing travel insurance for the over 70s)
• There may be a significant price difference between single vs annual over 70 travel insurance policies
• Beware tour operator insurance offers – some tour operators may offer insurance as part of the holiday when you book but you may find you get better value from an independent insurer
• Group policies (for more than one person) are based on the oldest traveller – so separate cover may be cheaper
• Check that in order to claim for a cancellation that you don’t need to prove the tour operator/airline won’t refund you first
• Check excess/waivers on things like car hire are not additional
• You may find that some destinations will require more expensive insurance – depending on their health care systems. Eg The USA vs European destinations
• Check if the right level of travel insurance may be included with your bank account or a credit card

Bank Accounts with Travel Insurance for Over 70s

Some bank accounts offer travel insurance (with other extras) as incentives for you to bank with them. Here are some of the better options for getting travel insurance included in bank accounts:

Where to find over 70s travel insurance

As we mentioned, comparison sites are a great starting point to get a lot of quotes in one go. Or you can visit a travel insurance provider directly for a quote. 

Here are some options you could use – click whichever takes your fancy!

More travel insurance options – click the logo to be directed to their websites

For travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions click here.

Travel tips for the over 70s

Before you go.

• If travelling within Europe, apply for a UK Global Health Insurance card (GHIC) to get free or discounted medical care
• Make sure your passport is still valid; and check your destination with Government & NHS Travel pages to see if you need any vaccinations or medication to go there
• Tell your bank about your travel plans so you can use your cards abroad - some banks will stop your cards when used abroad as an anti-fraud measure
• Check the data roaming charges on your mobile phone (particularly in Europe post Brexit)
• Make a list of your medication and any other details that you might need in an emergency - and just in case, get a letter from you GP regarding medication, should you need to get more when away
• Make a list of emergency contact numbers
• Organise any airport assistance you might need through the airports you are travelling from/to
• Order enough medication to take with you for the duration of your trip, and a bit extra, just in case
• If travelling with pets, be sure they have their own passport and are up-to-date on their innoculations

Tips for travel

Put enough of any medication in your hand luggage should there be any delays etc; medication is not included in the weight allowance for each passenger so you can put the rest in your suitcase.

At your destination

Enjoy your holiday, and don’t forget to send a postcard!

FAQs on Travel Insurance for over 70s

Do all providers offer holiday insurance for over 70s.

No, not all providers offer travel insurance for over 70s because they don’t see it being profitable. However, there are still many different options for getting holiday insurance above a certain age.

Why is travel insurance for over 70s more expensive?

This is because the perceived risk of something that the insurer will need to pay out on is greater, and that the extent of any potential medical care is likely to be more than someone younger, and therefore also more expensive for the insurance company. So unfortunately, the incentive to offer over 70s competitively priced insurance isn’t there.

Can you get over 70s travel insurance if you have a medical condition?

Yes. It is really important in any holiday insurance you take out that you are clear and honest about any pre-existing medical conditions so that you can find insurance that fully covers you. Find out more about finding insurance with medical conditions here.

What is the maximum age for travel insurance?

This is entirely dependent on the provider, but for a lot of mainstream providers their cut-off will be around 70-75. However, there are plenty of other providers that have a higher threshold or none at all! SAGA, for example, has no upper limit on travel insurance.

How much does travel insurance for over 70s cost?

Travel insurance for the over 70s varies in price depending on a few factors including age, where you're going, what activities you do and for how long you are going. Generally you should expect to pay at least £60 but prices can exceed £200 for some types of cover. It is best to just think of this as part of the cost of going on holiday and to factor it in, because it is a necessary item.

Does being over 70 affect how long you can travel abroad?

Absolutely not. It may increase the price of the travel insurance you can get but it is completely up to you how long you go abroad for. That all being said you aren't as young as you used to be and your tolerance for long trips away might be less that it once was!

When should I buy travel insurance for over 70s?

Ideally you should get travel insurance as soon as you've booked your holiday. This is because you take on risk as soon as it's booked. If an aspect of your journey is cancelled you want it to be covered by your insurance.

Where is it most expensive to get travel insurance for?

Because of the cost of medical treatment, the USA, Canada, the Caribbean, China and Hong Kong are often the most expensive places to get travel insurance for. The price of travel insurance is even likely to differ a little bit in Europe with Spain, for example, being one of the pricier destinations, and Greece being less so.

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The Guide to Senior Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

The best senior travel insurance options

Tips for selecting travel insurance for seniors, what else seniors need to know about travel insurance, travel insurance for seniors, recapped.

Travel insurance is a smart way to protect the money you have invested in a big trip in case unforeseen hurdles stop you from traveling. Seemingly now more than ever, last-minute changes can disrupt a trip, and in some cases, the money spent on nonrefundable purchases is at risk. There are numerous travel insurance options for people older than 65, but it is important to understand the nuances of senior travel insurance.

Medical issues or situations at (or en route to) your destination can stifle even the best-laid plans. Many credit cards include travel insurance as one of their benefits. These plans can assist in the event of lost or delayed baggage, flight delays and cancellations, and other adjustments to a trip paid for with that particular card.

When buying supplemental senior citizen travel insurance, don’t rely on the default option presented by your travel provider. There are many considerations to take into account, like how far from home you plan to be, the potential for injury or sickness (including your pre-existing medical conditions), and what may already be covered by other insurance plans you have.

For example, medical evacuation may not be covered, but local transportation to a hospital may be. And remember that U.S. health plans or Medicare coverage are especially limited outside of the country.

Here are some options worth reviewing from a handful of insurance providers: Allianz, Medjet, Travelers and your specific travel provider.

Here are a select few senior travel insurance options for people 65 and older.

Allianz offers excellent coverage for travelers over 65. It can help make payments for medical treatments overseas, even in the local currency and their preferred payment methods, to keep you from paying out of pocket.

For longer trips, it offers an AllTrips Prime Plan in increments of three, six or 12 months (ideal if you plan to vacation elsewhere during the winter months, for example). This plan covers emergency medical transport. The company takes into account certain pre-existing medical conditions so be sure to read the fine print.

If you fall ill or need assistance during your travels, Medjet ’s supplemental coverage for medical transportation helps you get to your home or the hospital of your choice. It includes air medical transport. This is a membership program that covers emergencies and can be tacked onto trips or purchased annually. While not technically travel insurance, this company offers an additional medical transport option for emergencies.

This coverage can be helpful if you're planning to travel in remote or unfamiliar areas, such as on safaris, to secluded islands and other far-flung destinations.

» Learn more: Does travel insurance cover medical expenses?

Most other travel insurers might only get you to the nearest appropriate hospital facility. For travelers younger than 75, Medjet offers no pre-existing medical condition exclusions and it doesn't rule out the same number of activities that other providers might.

3. Travelers

With the option to buy an annual, multi-trip protector, Travelers insurance covers a whole year of trips with the option to upgrade several features. The add-ons include “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance and trip interruption coverage.

4. Your travel provider’s own plan

On certain types of trips, say a cruise or a Caribbean resort that is prone to hurricanes, using the travel provider’s recommended insurance can be a good bet. This coverage is usually offered as an add-on during the booking process, but it can also be added after the reservation.

Most likely, these policies are designed to cover delay or cancellation issues, but be sure to read the fine print to see if medical transportation or trip interruption is also included.

Choosing a provider of your own can make sense when planning your own travel (let’s say a honeymoon to Paris or the Maldives). If a cruise line or safari outfitter offers insurance of its own, that might be the most comprehensive when it comes to that particular provider’s operations.

» Learn more: The best cruise insurance

Deciding if you need travel insurance is the first hurdle. Next comes the task of selecting the right one without spending more than the cost of what you are actually trying to protect. These are some important tips to consider.

Compare plans

It is wise to compare the options available using aggregator websites like SquareMouth (a NerdWallet partner) and InsureMyTrip.com. These sites compare the options from dozens of different providers detailing what they do and do not cover.

Seeing the exclusions as well as considering them within the framework of your trip can help you select the best plan for your travel needs.

Consider existing coverage

Review your existing coverage, whether that is via your health insurance or any credit card protections you may have. Some of the benefits you might be paying extra for when getting supplemental travel insurance may already be covered.

Read the fine print

Don’t base your final decision on price, as sometimes the cheapest policy may be the most restrictive — and the most expensive policy may give you coverage for activities you won't even be doing.

What may seem like an inclusion may actually be disallowed due to a technicality (terrorist attack or war). If you’re not sure, pick up the phone and ask if your specific situation is covered.

Timing is key. The sooner you buy your travel insurance coverage, the more time you have to benefit from it. The price could also rise the closer you get to departure. If you wait until the departure date to buy it, you would be out of luck if the week before you get sick or the destination closes its borders. Buying insurance after an issue arises won't help you.

Travel insurance is a safe way to protect that sunken cost. Spending money on travel, even with the benefit of loyalty program miles and points to offset some of the cost, can be a significant investment. Chances are that you won’t even need it, but like other insurance policies, it can pay off in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Weigh the cost of potential expenses with the insurance plan. Canceling a rental car for a road trip may not be a big deal, but business class flights and a nonrefundable cruise might be.

Credit card coverage only protects you if you use that card to pay for your travel. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express also offer travel insurance benefits when paying with points, too. Terms apply. Using the right card for your trip can help save money on other potential travel insurance costs.

» Learn more: Best travel insurance options for older adventurers

What may seem like an unnecessary extra cost can actually help save the day in certain circumstances.

It can pay dividends to understand what your existing coverage includes (especially via a particular credit card) so that travelers over 65 make the most advantageous insurance decision for their trips.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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