over 70 travel insurance with medical conditions

June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova; North Korea; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors

Get a Quote

{{travelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

{{annualTravelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

If your trip involves multiple destinations, please enter the destination where you’ll be spending the most time. It is not required to list all destinations on your policy.

Age of Traveler

Ages: {{quote.travelers_ages}}

If you were referred by a travel agent, enter the ACCAM number provided by your agent.

Travel Dates

{{quote.travel_dates ? quote.travel_dates : "Departure - Return" | formatDates}}

Plan Start Date

{{quote.start_date ? quote.start_date : "Date"}}

Share this Page

• {{errorMsgSendSocialEmail}}

Your browser does not support iframes.

Popular Travel Insurance Plans

• Annual Travel Insurance
• Cruise Insurance
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Rental Car Insurance

View all of our travel insurance products

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

Return To Log In

Your session has expired. We are redirecting you to our sign-in page.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

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

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

311 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3245 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

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.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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. 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.

Was this page helpful?

About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the  latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy   and  terms of service   apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Travel Insurance for Seniors & Retirees: 5 Top Picks

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Trawick International »

GeoBlue »

IMG Travel Insurance »

WorldTrips »

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 Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Trawick International

While anyone planning a trip overseas can benefit from having a travel insurance plan in place, older travelers need to prioritize this coverage more than others. The fact is, senior travelers and retirees have unique worries and risks to think about any time they travel far from home. These risks increase their need for travel health insurance and emergency medical coverage, as well as coverage for emergency medical evacuation that applies anywhere in the world.

Which travel insurance options work best for seniors? There are many travel insurance plans that were created with retirees in mind, although you'll want to compare them side by side. For example, you may want to look at coverage limits for medical expenses and coverage for preexisting conditions above all else.

U.S. News editors compared more than 20 of the top travel insurance companies to find the best plans for seniors. This list does the heavy lifting for you as you search for the best senior travel insurance of 2023, so read on to learn about the top picks.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Annual Coverage
• Trawick International: Best Premium Travel Insurance for Seniors
• GeoBlue: Best Travel Medical Coverage for Expats
• IMG Travel Insurance: Best for Short-Term Travel Medical Coverage
• WorldTrips: Best for Flexibility

Available to senior travelers of all ages

Coverage for preexisting conditions is offered

Relatively low limits for emergency medical expenses

• Coverage for COVID-19
• Trip cancellation coverage up to $3,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $3,000
• Emergency medical coverage up to $20,000
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $100,000
• Baggage loss coverage up to $1,000
• Baggage delay insurance up to $200
• Travel delay coverage up to $600 ($200 daily limit)
• Rental car damage and theft coverage up to $45,000
• Travel accident coverage up to $25,000
• 24-hour hotline for assistance
• Concierge service
• Preexisting condition coverage (must be added to plan within 14 days of first trip deposit or payment)

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Customize plan with optional CFAR coverage

Incredibly high limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation

Coverage is for trips up to 30 days if you're age 80 and older

• Up to $15,000 in trip cancellation insurance
• Up to $22,500 in trip interruption coverage
• Up to $1,000 for trip delays ($200 daily limit for delays of 12-plus hours)
• Up to $1,000 for missed connections
• Up to $150,000 for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $1 million in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• $750 in emergency dental coverage
• $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• $400 in baggage delay coverage
• 24/7 noninsurance assistance services

Get comprehensive health insurance that applies overseas

Preventive and routine care included

Age limits apply for new applicants and renewals

• Preventive and routine care
• Professional services like surgery
• Inpatient medical care
• Ambulatory and therapeutic services
• Rehabilitation and therapy

Get overseas medical coverage for single trips or multiple trips

Plans were created with seniors and retirees in mind

Lower maximum coverage limits for travelers ages 80 and older

Limited nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Inpatient and outpatient medical coverage such as for physician visits, hospitalization and surgery
• Emergency and nonemergency medical evacuation coverage
• Coverage for emergency reunions
• Return of mortal remains
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to $5,000
• Lost luggage coverage worth up to $250 (up to $50 per item)
• Coverage for terrorism worth up to $50,000
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage worth up to $25,000

Customize your deductible and premiums

Generous medical limits for travelers ages 65 to 79

Limited medical coverage for travelers older than 80

• Up to $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage
• Medical benefits like hospital room and board, chiropractic care, and more
• Coverage for repatriation of remains
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Up to $10,000 in trip interruption insurance
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day in coverage for travel delays of 12-plus hours
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for bedside visits
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency reunions

Frequently Asked Questions

You can purchase some travel insurance plans (but not all) if you're older than 80 years old. However, your premiums may be higher and you'll typically qualify for lower coverage limits overall. Make sure you compare the best travel insurance plans for seniors to find the right fit for your needs.

Since seniors and retirees are more likely to face a medical emergency during a trip, most travel insurance plans for seniors include coverage for emergency medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation. Coverages vary among plans, as do limits, so make sure to compare options before you book a trip overseas.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered international travel and travel insurance for more than a decade. Johnson has researched and compared all the top travel insurance options for her own family for trips to more than 50 countries around the world, and she has successfully filed claims during that time. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg, a travel agent who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states.

You might also be interested in:

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Holly Johnson

Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations.

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

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?

Private health insurance typically doesn't cover international travel expenses.

How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance (+ What to Tip)

Suzanne Mason and Rachael Hood

From planning to arrival, get helpful tips to make the journey easier.

• Auto Insurance Best Car Insurance Cheapest Car Insurance Compare Car Insurance Quotes Best Car Insurance For Young Drivers Best Auto & Home Bundles Cheapest Cars To Insure
• Home Insurance Best Home Insurance Best Renters Insurance Cheapest Homeowners Insurance Types Of Homeowners Insurance
• Life Insurance Best Life Insurance Best Term Life Insurance Best Senior Life Insurance Best Whole Life Insurance Best No Exam Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance Best Pet Insurance Cheap Pet Insurance Pet Insurance Costs Compare Pet Insurance Quotes
• Travel Insurance Best Travel Insurance Cancel For Any Reason Travel Insurance Best Cruise Travel Insurance Best Senior Travel Insurance
• Health Insurance Best Health Insurance Plans Best Affordable Health Insurance Best Dental Insurance Best Vision Insurance Best Disability Insurance
• Credit Cards Best Credit Cards 2024 Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards Best Rewards Credit Cards Best Cash Back Credit Cards Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards Best 0% APR Credit Cards Best Business Credit Cards Best Credit Cards for Startups Best Credit Cards For Bad Credit Best Cards for Students without Credit
• Credit Card Reviews Chase Sapphire Preferred Wells Fargo Active Cash® Chase Sapphire Reserve Citi Double Cash Citi Diamond Preferred Chase Ink Business Unlimited American Express Blue Business Plus
• Credit Card by Issuer Best Chase Credit Cards Best American Express Credit Cards Best Bank of America Credit Cards Best Visa Credit Cards
• Credit Score Best Credit Monitoring Services Best Identity Theft Protection
• CDs Best CD Rates Best No Penalty CDs Best Jumbo CD Rates Best 3 Month CD Rates Best 6 Month CD Rates Best 9 Month CD Rates Best 1 Year CD Rates Best 2 Year CD Rates Best 5 Year CD Rates
• Checking Best High-Yield Checking Accounts Best Checking Accounts Best No Fee Checking Accounts Best Teen Checking Accounts Best Student Checking Accounts Best Joint Checking Accounts Best Business Checking Accounts Best Free Checking Accounts
• Savings Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Best Free No-Fee Savings Accounts Simple Savings Calculator Monthly Budget Calculator: 50/30/20
• Mortgages Best Mortgage Lenders Best Online Mortgage Lenders Current Mortgage Rates Best HELOC Rates Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders Best Home Equity Loan Lenders Best VA Mortgage Lenders Mortgage Refinance Rates Mortgage Interest Rate Forecast
• Personal Loans Best Personal Loans Best Debt Consolidation Loans Best Emergency Loans Best Home Improvement Loans Best Bad Credit Loans Best Installment Loans For Bad Credit Best Personal Loans For Fair Credit Best Low Interest Personal Loans
• Student Loans Best Student Loans Best Student Loan Refinance Best Student Loans for Bad or No Credit Best Low-Interest Student Loans
• Business Loans Best Business Loans Best Business Lines of Credit Apply For A Business Loan Business Loan vs. Business Line Of Credit What Is An SBA Loan?
• Investing Best Online Brokers Top 10 Cryptocurrencies Best Low-Risk Investments Best Cheap Stocks To Buy Now Best S&P 500 Index Funds Best Stocks For Beginners How To Make Money From Investing In Stocks
• Retirement Best Roth IRAs Best Gold IRAs Best Investments for a Roth IRA Best Bitcoin IRAs Protecting Your 401(k) In a Recession Types of IRAs Roth vs Traditional IRA How To Open A Roth IRA
• Business Formation Best LLC Services Best Registered Agent Services How To Start An LLC How To Start A Business
• Web Design & Hosting Best Website Builders Best E-commerce Platforms Best Domain Registrar
• HR & Payroll Best Payroll Software Best HR Software Best HRIS Systems Best Recruiting Software Best Applicant Tracking Systems
• Payment Processing Best Credit Card Processing Companies Best POS Systems Best Merchant Services Best Credit Card Readers How To Accept Credit Cards
• More Business Solutions Best VPNs Best VoIP Services Best Project Management Software Best CRM Software Best Accounting Software
• Debt relief Best debt management Best debt settlement Do you need a debt management plan? What is debt settlement? Debt consolidation vs. debt settlement Should you settle your debt or pay in full? How to negotiate a debt settlement on your own
• Debt collection Can a debt collector garnish my bank account or my wages? Can credit card companies garnish your wages? What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?
• Bankruptcy How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy? What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy? What is Chapter 13 bankruptcy? Can medical bankruptcy help with medical bills?
• More payoff strategies Tips to get rid of your debt in a year Don't make these mistakes when climbing out of debt How credit counseling can help you get out of debt What is the debt avalanche method? What is the debt snowball method?
• Manage Topics
• Investigations
• Visual Explainers
• Newsletters
• Abortion news
• Coronavirus
• Climate Change
• Vertical Storytelling
• Corrections Policy
• College Football
• High School Sports
• H.S. Sports Awards
• Sports Betting
• College Basketball (M)
• College Basketball (W)
• For The Win
• Sports Pulse
• Weekly Pulse
• Buy Tickets
• Sports Seriously
• Sports+ States
• Celebrities
• Entertainment This!
• Celebrity Deaths
• American Influencer Awards
• Women of the Century
• Problem Solved
• Personal Finance
• Small Business
• Consumer Recalls
• Video Games
• Product Reviews
• Destinations
• Airline News
• Experience America
• Today's Debate
• Suzette Hackney
• Policing the USA
• Meet the Editorial Board
• How to Submit Content
• Hidden Common Ground
• Race in America

Personal Loans

Best personal loans

Auto Insurance

Best car insurance

Best high-yield savings

CREDIT CARDS

Best credit cards

Advertiser Disclosure

Blueprint is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service focused on helping readers make smarter decisions. We receive compensation from the companies that advertise on Blueprint which may impact how and where products appear on this site. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Blueprint. Blueprint does not include all companies, products or offers that may be available to you within the market. A list of selected affiliate partners is available here .

Travel insurance

Best travel insurance for seniors in June 2024

Amy Fontinelle

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 4:00 a.m. UTC April 1, 2024

• path]:fill-[#49619B]" alt="Facebook" width="18" height="18" viewBox="0 0 18 18" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">
• path]:fill-[#202020]" alt="Email" width="19" height="14" viewBox="0 0 19 14" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

Tin Leg and Trawick International offer the best travel insurance for seniors, according to our analysis of plans’ cost and coverage limits.

Best senior travel insurance plans of 2024

• Tin Leg: Gold
• Trawick International: Safe Travels First Class
• Seven Corners: Trip Protection Choice
• Generali Global Assistance: Premium
• Nationwide: Prime

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of insurance products and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best product for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

• 840 coverage details evaluated.
• 84 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Top-rated travel insurance for seniors

Best plan for seniors

Average cost for seniors, covers covid, medical & evacuation limits per person, what you should know.

For the amount of coverage you get, Tin Leg’s Gold plan is competitively priced. It includes $500,000 in emergency medical benefits and another $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage.

Pros and cons

• Excellent $500,000 per person in primary emergency medical coverage.
• Very good emergency medical coverage of $500,000 per person.
• Eligible for pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver if conditions are met.
• “Cancel for any reason” coverage of 75% available.
• No “interruption for any reason” upgrade available.
• Hurricane and weather coverage kicks in only after a 48-hour delay.
• Lowest baggage and personal item loss coverage of our top-rated senior plans.
• Lowest travel delay coverage of our top-rated senior plans.
• No rental car coverage option.

Trawick International

Trawick International’s Safe Travels First Class policy is a relatively inexpensive option that comes with $1 million in emergency medical evacuation coverage and a high per person limit for baggage and personal items loss.

• Second-cheapest of our best senior plans.
• Best-in-class medical evacuation coverage of $1 million.
• Pre-existing condition coverage available if conditions are met.
• Baggage loss coverage of $2,000 per person is the best among our top senior plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage upgrade available.
• Travel delay benefit takes 12 hours to kick in.
• Lower emergency medical benefit of $150,000 is secondary coverage.

Seven Corners

Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Choice plan has high emergency medical and medical evacuation limits, as well as rare coverage for non-medical evacuation. In addition to “cancel for any reason” coverage, you can also pay extra for “interruption for any reason” coverage.

• Excellent $1 million emergency medical evacuation coverage plus $20,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• Great “interruption for any reason” coverage of 75% available.
• The most expensive of our top-rated senior travel insurance plans.

Generali Global Assistance

Generali Global Assistance’s premium plan offers trip interruption coverage of up to 175% of your trip cost. Most top-rated competitors offer a maximum of 150%.

• Top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Solid baggage loss coverage of $2,000 per person.
• “Cancel for any reason” coverage of 75% available.
• Baggage must be delayed for 12 hours before benefits kick in.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,000 per person only applies to cruises and tours.
• Emergency medical expense benefit is secondary coverage.

Nationwide Prime travel insurance offers an exceptional 200% coverage for trip interruption.

• If you need to cut your trip short for a covered reason, you can be reimbursed up to 200% of your prepaid trip cost.
• High travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person ($250 per day limit).
• “Cancel for any reason” coverage of 75% is available.
• Low missed connection benefit of $500 per person for cruises and tours only.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.

Compare the best travel insurance for seniors

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Methodology

Our insurance experts analyzed cost and coverage data from 21 plans to determine the best senior travel insurance. For this rating, we only scored travel insurance plans that offer the option to buy “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

The benefits we scored out of a possible 100 points include:

Cost: 50 points. We scored the average cost for each travel insurance policy for a variety of international trips and traveler profiles.

Medical expenses: 15 points. Travel insurance plans that offer travel medical expense benefits of $500,000 per person were given the highest amount of points.

Medical evacuation: 15 points. Travel insurance plans with emergency medical evacuation benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest number of points.

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 20 points. Travel insurance plans that cover pre-existing medical conditions if the policy is purchased within a required timeline received points.

What is covered by travel insurance for seniors?

The best travel insurance bundles several types of insurance to provide financial protection before and during your trip. 

A comprehensive senior travel insurance plan will include the following coverage types: 

• Trip cancellation insurance . 
• Trip delay insurance.
• Trip interruption insurance. 
• Travel medical insurance. 
• Emergency medical evacuation .
• Baggage loss and delay coverage.

What’s the most important travel insurance coverage for senior travelers?

Health is a top concern for older travelers. Travel insurance for senior citizens should have high coverage limits for trip interruption, travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation. 

“Since Medicare doesn’t provide coverage abroad, it’s important for senior travelers to pay close attention to policies’ medical benefits, including emergency medical, medical evacuation and pre-existing conditions,” said James Clark, a spokesperson for the travel-insurance comparison site Squaremouth, the company behind Tin Leg travel insurance.

Older travelers should also pay attention to whether a travel insurance plan’s emergency medical coverage is primary or secondary.

“When traveling outside the U.S., seniors should know that it’s recommended to purchase a travel insurance plan that includes primary emergency medical coverage,” said Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection vice president, Carol Mueller.

 “Senior travelers on Medicare who purchase a travel insurance plan with secondary medical coverage will need to first try to get Medicare to cover their emergency travel medical expenses, which in many cases is limited to no coverage,” said Mueller. “Avoid the hassle and choose a travel insurance plan with primary medical coverage.”

How to choose the best senior travel insurance

Senior travelers shopping for travel insurance should look for plans with these benefits:

• Emergency medical expense coverage of at least $250,000. This pays for emergency medical expenses you incur during your trip and includes medical coverage for COVID-19 . 
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage of at least $500,000. This pays to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility for you to get the care you require when a physician says your illness or injury is severe enough to warrant it. Emergency medical evacuation coverage may also pay to fly a loved one to be with you and to fly you home for further treatment or recovery. 
• Preexisting condition coverage. Some plans include a preexisting condition waiver as long as you buy travel insurance within a certain number of days of making your first trip deposit, you insure the full value of your trip and you are medically able to travel at the time of departure. Having a waiver will give you coverage for medical conditions documented in your health history in the 60 to 180 days before you buy your plan, with some exclusions.
• Trip interruption coverage of 150%. Trip interruption insurance reimburses you for unused, prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses if your trip is unexpectedly interrupted while you’re in transit or at your destination. It can also cover travel costs associated with having to change your plans, such as needing to buy a last-minute economy ticket for a one-way flight home. Buying an extra ticket can push your claim over 100% of your original trip expenses, so it’s wise to look for a plan that reimburses up to 150%. 
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available. For an additional cost, you can sometimes add “cancel for any reason” coverage to your travel insurance plan. This typically reimburses up to 75% of nonrefundable trip expenses if you decide not to travel for a reason not covered by your policy, as long as you cancel at least two days before you’re scheduled to travel.

How much does senior travel insurance cost?

The average cost of senior travel insurance is $434 per trip , based on our analysis of rates for older travelers. For senior trips with “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage, the average cost of travel insurance increases to $629.

Travel insurance for seniors typically costs around 7% to 9% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses. Adding CFAR coverage can add 45% or more to that cost.

How much you pay for travel insurance will depend on the age of you and your fellow travelers, the length of your trip and the total of your nonrefundable trip costs.

Compare senior travel insurance rates

Average senior travel insurance costs are based on rates for international trips for travelers ages 65 and 70, with CFAR coverage and without. Travel insurance plans have different levels of benefits, which can account for price differences.

Travel smart: Find cheap travel insurance that meets your needs.

How to save money on travel insurance for seniors

Travel insurance companies don’t typically offer discounts. But if you can get a senior discount on any of your travel itself, you’ll have a smaller trip cost to insure. This will lower the cost of your senior travel insurance.

Getting quotes from multiple travel insurance providers is also a great way to save money. Every policy offers more coverage in some areas and less in others. Depending on what coverage is most important to you, certain policies will give you more value than others. 

Get the coverage you need: What does travel insurance cover?

Is CFAR worth it for senior travelers?

CFAR coverage adds to the cost of your plan, but older travelers may want to consider a travel insurance policy with both trip cancellation insurance and “cancel for any reason” coverage, said Clark.  

CFAR benefits offer maximum flexibility to cancel your plans due to illness, injury or any other reason and will reimburse a percentage of your nonrefundable trip costs, usually 50% or 75%. The only caveat is that you’ll need to cancel at least two days before you plan to travel.

When shopping for travel insurance, look for CFAR-related fine print. You often must buy CFAR within a certain number of days of making your first trip deposit, such as 14 days. You are also usually required to insure the full value of your nonrefundable trip expenses.

More travel insurance for seniors resources

• What is travel insurance?
• What does travel insurance cover?
• Average cost of travel insurance
• Is travel insurance worth it?
• Best COVID travel insurance
• Best cruise travel insurance  

Best senior travel insurance FAQs

If you rely on Medicare for health insurance and you’re traveling internationally, buying senior travel insurance with excellent emergency medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation benefits is a good idea.

“One of the most important considerations for travelers with existing health issues is to find a plan that offers a preexisting condition exclusion waiver,” said Stan Sandberg, cofounder and CEO of TravelInsurance.com. 

To qualify for the waiver, you’ll usually need to purchase your trip insurance policy within seven to 14 days of making your initial trip payment. Some premium policies may extend this coverage if you buy them before or within 24 hours of making your final trip payment, he said.

Even with a waiver, medical bills related to certain excluded conditions such as dementia or depression may not be covered, so read the policy carefully to see if your preexisting conditions qualify.

More: Is travel insurance worth it?

Tin Leg’s Gold plan and Trawick International’s Safe Travel First Class plan provide the best travel insurance for seniors for the price, according to our analysis. These are the only plans to merit 5 stars in our rating.

Yes, you can get travel insurance over 80, but it will cost you more.

Yes. If you’re shopping for travel insurance over 80, for instance, you’ll pay an average of 18% of your total trip cost. That is considerably higher than the average cost of travel insurance for a 30-year-old, which is only 5%.

Travel insurance for the elderly varies by insurer when it comes to upper age limits . If you are concerned about finding the best travel medical insurance for seniors over 7 0 , start with an online comparison site like Squaremouth where you only have to enter your age and trip details once to see which policies are available to you.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Amy Fontinelle has more than 15 years of experience helping people make informed decisions about their money, whether they’re refinancing a mortgage, buying insurance or choosing a credit card. As a freelance writer trained in journalism and specializing in personal finance, Amy digs into the details to explain the products and strategies that can help (or hurt) people seeking greater financial security and wealth. Her work has been published by Forbes Advisor, Capital One, MassMutual, Investopedia and many other outlets.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

10 worst US airports for flight cancellations this week

Travel insurance Heidi Gollub

10 worst US airports for flight cancellations last week

Our travel insurance ratings methodology

AXA Assistance USA travel insurance review 2024

Travel insurance Jennifer Simonson

Cheapest travel insurance of June 2024

Travel insurance Mandy Sleight

Average flight costs: Travel, airfare and flight statistics 2024

Travel insurance Timothy Moore

John Hancock travel insurance review 2024

HTH Worldwide travel insurance review 2024

Airfare at major airports is up 29% since 2021

USI Affinity travel insurance review 2024

Trawick International travel insurance review 2024

Travel insurance for Canada

Travelex travel insurance review 2024

Best travel insurance companies of May 2024

Travel insurance Amy Fontinelle

Best travel insurance for a Disney World vacation in 2024

Freephone our UK Team

0800 072 6778

Sales & Service

Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 8pm Saturday: 9am to 5:30pm Sunday: 10am to 5:00pm

Monday to Friday: 9am to 7pm Saturday: 9am to 5:30pm

Bank Holiday Opening Hours:

6th May: 9am-5pm 27th May: 9am-5pm

Travel Insurance

Medical travel insurance, seniors travel insurance, europe travel insurance, worldwide travel insurance, coronavirus travel insurance, over 70s travel insurance.

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

Covered 27 million+ travellers

Trusted for 20+ years

24/7 emergency helpline

At InsureandGo, we want to make it easy for as many people as possible to travel worry-free. That’s why our travel insurance for over 70s has got you covered. It’s one less thing to think about when planning your next holiday! 

What is over 70s travel insurance and how does it work?

Travel insurance for over 70s is a type of travel insurance policy that covers the specific needs of older travellers, including any pre-existing health conditions. We believe that your age shouldn’t stop you from having the type of holiday you want, which is why we cover more than 1300 pre-existing conditions.

It’s important to have the right type of travel insurance before you set off. If you’re travelling without insurance, you may be stung with a nasty bill as a result of any holiday mishaps. For example: 

• The NHS estimates a third of all people over 65 will have at least one fall a year . 
• The World Health Organisation estimates that falls are a contributing factor for 50% of all hospital visits for people aged over 65.
• In the US, the it can cost as much as $10k a night to stay in hospital .
• If you fall on holiday, it’s important to make sure that your hospital visit is covered by your insurance. 

Planning a cruise? Then all you need to do is add our cruise travel insurance to your policy. Just like our standard over 70s travel insurance, we can consider any pre-existing medical conditions on our cruise travel insurance, which also has no upper age limit.

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

What does InsureandGo’s over 70s travel insurance cover?

What’s covered.

All our over 70s travel insurance policies include:

Find out about our optional add-ons for activities like extreme sports , winter sports , hiking , cruises and golf .  We will consider all pre-existing medical conditions, find out more about medical travel insurance .  The excess and amount of cover available varies depending on the level of travel insurance you buy. Make sure you have a look at our policy wording to see the full terms and conditions, including what is and isn’t covered.

What’s Not Covered

While each policy and provider will have different things it can and cannot cover, there are some general things no travel insurance will cover. For example:

Events or reasons to claim which took place before you booked the trip or the insurance was purchased cannot be covered. Insurance exists to cover unexpected events outside of the insured’s control.

Claims which are less than the excess for that section of cover. For example, you cannot claim a £40 lost item if your baggage excess is £60.

All of our travel insurance policies include cover for cancellation of your trip, but there may be some exclusions. For example, you won’t be covered to cancel if you simply decide not to go.

Age restrictions

We think yearly holiday insurance should be available to as many people as possible, that’s why our annual multi-trip policies have no upper age limit. While most of our policy options cover all ages, we do not cover anyone over the age of 65 for winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. 

Trip length

Our annual multi-trip travel insurance covers you for gives you cover to travel as many times as you like during the year. Each individual trip can last up to 31 days for Budget policies, 45 days for Silver and Gold policies, and up to 55 days for Black policies. If you want to be abroad longer than this, you’ll need our long-stay travel insurance .

The amount of valuables cover available depends on the policy you choose. Our Budget level multi-trip travel insurance covers valuables up to £100, Silver policies cover £200, Gold £400, and a Black annual policy will insure £600 of your valuables.

If you’ll be taking away something a bit more expensive you can add our valuables extension, giving you £2,000 of cover for your sports equipment, camera, laptop and much more. Check the policy wording for full details of what’s covered with this add-on, and note that there’s a limit of £1,000 per individual item.

The best travel insurance for over 70s

Our travel insurance policies have no upper age limit, so there’s no reason not to do what you love abroad. We can provide additional cover for a range of activities:

• Love cruising? We’ve got you covered with our cruise insurance . 
• Taking multiple trips this year? It might work out better to get annual travel insurance if you’re heading abroad multiple times.
• Touring a few countries? Depending on your destinations, you might need worldwide travel insurance or travel insurance for Europe . 
• Heading off to engage in a hobby? We’ve got travel insurance specifically for golf holidays or hiking trips , or you could even get travel insurance for extreme sports . 

Travel insurance for over 70s with pre-existing medical conditions

With our over-70s travel insurance, you’ll be covered for your trip, even if you have a pre-existing health condition.

You’ll just need to declare your pre-existing conditions when you set up your policy, which means we’ll need to ask you some questions to see if any additional premium is required.

Examples of medical conditions we can cover include:

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

To find out more, please read our page about travel insurance for medical conditions or take a look at our policy wording documents . 

Which destinations are covered by our over 70s travel insurance?

We offer over 70s travel insurance policies based on the following destination groupings:

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

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

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

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

How much does over 70s Travel Insurance cost?

There is no standard cost for over 70s travel insurance. Our travel insurance policies have no upper age limit, and we’ll consider most pre-existing medical conditions too. 

The exact cost of your travel insurance for over 70s will vary, depending on the length of the trip you’re taking, where you’re going, whether or not you have any pre-existing medical conditions, any activities you’ll be doing, and any additional extras you might need. 

When purchasing travel insurance, be sure to check the policy wording. You’ll need to make sure it covers everything you need to – including any medical expenses or activity cover you might need. Each policy is different, so be sure you check yours. 

How to book our travel insurance for over 70s

We know your holiday planning to-do list can be a long one, so we make getting over 70s insurance as simple as possible:

1 . Let us know about your trip

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

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

2 . Get your quote

Once we have all the details we need, we will send you your quote. At this stage, you can go ahead and buy your policy, or save the quote for the future. 

“There may be a few extra challenges when going on holiday later in life, but your travel insurance policy shouldn’t be one. Our travel insurance has no upper age limit, so Just pick the type of policy that suits your travel plans, whether that’s a single or annual trip, cruising, golfing, or even extreme sports.“ Letitia Smith MSc, Travel Insurance Expert

F requently asked questions

What is the maximum age you can insure up to.

InsureandGo offers travel insurance with no upper age limit . Our policies always include cover for over 100 sports and activities, no matter what your age. Please note that our additional winter sports cover is only available up to age 65.

Will my policy be more expensive if I’m over 70?

Unfortunately, the costs of travel insurance rise because of the increased risk of claims when older people travel. This is because providers consider you more at risk of needing medical treatment while you’re away. This is normal with all travel insurance policies so you may pay slightly more. 

Does my over 70s travel insurance change depending on where I’m going?

Yes, but this isn’t because you’re over 70. Typically, policy prices change depending on where you’re going because different countries have different costs for medical treatment. For example, high medical expenses in the US means that travel insurance for the USA is more expensive than travel insurance to go to Spain .

How long can I travel for if I’m over 70?

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

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

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

As a British citizen, it is recommended to carry a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) whenever you travel to Europe. Doing so means that you will have the costs for most medical procedures covered while away. 

However, it’s vital to remember that you still need European travel insurance to cover the costs of any unexpected medical treatment the EHIC or GHIC might not cover. This includes things like transport to and from hospital or even repatriation back to the UK. 

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

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

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

You must let us know of any pre-existing medical conditions you have before buying insurance. To do so, you can use our quick and easy online medical screening system.

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

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

How far in advance should I get travel insurance?

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

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

Frequently asked questions

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

Travel advice

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

Travel insurance reviews

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

Who can buy an InsureandGo over 70s travel insurance policy?

Our annual travel insurance policies are available to UK residents (someone who has been living in the UK or the Channel Islands for at least six months, has a UK address and is registered with a GP) who are in the UK at the time of purchase. 

To choose the right annual multi-trip travel insurance policy for you, get a quote online or read our policy documents for more information.

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

• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for older travelers
• Best for affordability
• Best for annual plans
• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Travel Insurance for Seniors of June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Best Senior Travel Insurance Companies

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for older travelers:  TravelSafe Insurance

Best for affordability: GeoBlue Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: travel guard.

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for older travelers: TravelSafe Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to 120 days' coverage available for travelers ages 79 and under (30 days for 80+)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $2,500 per person for missed connections over three hours or more
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage of up to $150 per person per day kicks in after six hours or more
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy can be purchased by U.S. citizens living abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage ceiling of $100,000 may be low for some travelers' needs.
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims reviews from customers say performance is not always the best
• A well-rounded insurance plan for travelers who are concerned about missing connections for cruise-related travel
• Classic and Basic travel insurance plans
• GolfSafe travel insurance plans provide coverage for you and your equipment
• Travel medical insurance through partner Trawick International

TravelSafe Insurance is a great choice for older travelers, even among seniors, insuring travelers up to 100 years old. TravelSafe also offers pre-existing condition waivers for all its tiers when you purchase your policy within 21 days of your initial trip deposit. With a great deal of flexibility, travelers don't have to worry about eligibility when purchasing travel insurance with TravelSafe. TravelSafe even has two tiers of coverage devoted specifically to golfers. 

Read our TravelSafe travel insurance review here.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. A subsidary of Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers strong medical plans as long as you have a regular health insurance plan, but it doesn't have to be through Blue Cross
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers long-term and multi-trip travel protection
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Multiple complaints about claims not being paid or being denied
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not provide some of the more comprehensive coverage like CFAR insurance
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers who do get claims paid may need to file multiple claim forms

GeoBlue Travel Insurance is a travel insurance provider that specializes in travel medical insurance . Because it doesn't offer much trip protection or travel inconvenience coverage, it can charge cheaper premiums than its competitors. 

GeoBlue's policies cover travelers who are under 95 years old, offering sizeable coverage for emergency medical treatments (up to $1 million) and medical evacuations (up to $500K). It's worth noting that while coverage for pre-existing conditions are available, it costs extra.

Read our GeoBlue Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a pre-existing medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding Travel Insurance for Seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

When you purchase a travel insurance policy, you'll be able to see a description of benefits, which is a long document that describes the exceptions and limitations to your coverage. You should carefully review this document so you're not blindsided by unexpected claim denials. 

For example, if you're canceling a trip because unexpected work, you may not be eligible for coverage if you haven't worked at your company for long enough. Additionally, you should review your policy to ensure that your pre-existing condition is covered, as companies often have very specific language around what qualifies as a covered pre-existing condition.

Emergency assistance services

Most companies offer a 24/7 concierge service that can help you navigate situations that arise during your trip, even issues beyond the scope of your policy. They can advise you on how to navigate these situations in accordance with your policy and make sure you acquire the necessary documentation when you need to file a claim down the line.

How to Pick Travel Insurance as a Senior Traveler

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Pre-existing conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers pre-existing conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover pre-existing conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Senior Travel Insurance

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions: Pre-existing conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for pre-existing conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Best Senior Travel Insurance FAQs

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for pre-existing conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. While the average travel insurance policy costs 4% to 8% of your trip's nonrefundable cost, a 65-year-old's policy may cost 15% of their trip's cost.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

Telephone Hours

Opening Hours

• Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 8pm
• Sat: 9am - 5:30pm
• Sun: 10am - 5pm
• Mon-Fri: 9:00am - 8:00pm
• Sat: 9:00am - 5:30pm
• Sun: 10:00am - 5:00pm

Travel Insurance For Over 70s

Relax and enjoy your holiday with cover including:

• No upper age limit
• All pre-existing medical conditions
• Medical emergencies

Our Over 70s Travel Insurance is designed to help you travel confidently. It can provide full medical cover for complete peace of mind.

This includes specialist cover for all pre-existing medical conditions and medical emergencies while abroad, as well as cover for trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other common travel mishaps.

What is Over 70s Travel Insurance – and do you need it?

Over 70s Travel Insurance is a type of policy that offers peace of mind and protection for older travellers during and leading up to your trip. 

With the risk of falls and injury increasing as we get older , there’s a higher chance of needing some medical help while travelling. With our specialised medical cover, you can travel in the knowledge you’re fully protected.

Our Over 70s Travel Insurance:

• Provides specialist medical cover: As a specialist Medical Travel Insurance provider, we offer tailored Travel Insurance policies to suit you and your needs, no matter your age or medical conditions
• Is tailored to you: Nearly 95% of adults over 60 are living with at least one chronic condition, which can make finding and buying Travel Insurance more difficult. We’ll help you find a policy tailored to your needs
• Offers peace of mind: Travelling can be stressful, particularly as you get older. Over 70s Travel Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected if you have an accident or emergency. You will also have access to our 24/7 helpline should you have a medical emergency your trip

What does AllClear’s Over 70s Travel Insurance cover?

We specialise in cover for over 70s with pre-existing medical conditions , so you can travel with confidence.

What’s covered?

• Medical expenses – We can cover emergency medical treatment you need while travelling, including pre-existing medical conditions you’ve declared
• Medical aids – We will protect your essential medical equipment and accessories from loss or damage
• Medication – We’ll help you get a replacement for your vital prescription medication if you lose it during your trip.
• Repatriation – This covers the cost of emergency medical transport back to the UK
• Lost luggage – We will pay out if your baggage is stolen or damaged, so you can replace your important items.
• Cancellation and curtailment – Provides cover if you have to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or reasons beyond your control
• Travel disruption – We will help you cover alternative transport or accommodation if your travel plans are disrupted

What’s not covered?

• Undeclared medical conditions – We need to know your full medical history to give you the best cover possible in a medical emergency
• High-risk activities – These are not covered by our standard policy, but you can add Optional Extras for some activities if you want to
• Accidents under the influence of drugs or alcohol – While we want you to have fun on your trip, safety is paramount. If you have an accident because of drugs or alcohol, your claim won’t be covered.
• Missed flights within your control – We understand that sometimes things go wrong, but we can’t cover missed flights that were under your control.
• Choosing not to travel – We know that plans change from time to time, but cancellation cover is provided only for specific reasons like illness, injury, or bereavement. Refer to your policy documents for complete cover details

AllClear’s Travel Insurance for Over 70s with pre-existing medical conditions

It is common to be travelling with pre-existing medical conditions in your 70s. 

In fact, a recent Which? study revealed that over a third (36%) of respondents living with pre-existing conditions struggled to find affordable insurance, with 7% opting to travel uninsured due to high premiums.

The risks of travelling without Over 70s Travel Insurance can be extremely costly. For example, without repatriation cover, you would have to pay air ambulance costs upfront. This can cost anywhere from £12,000 to £18,000 in Europe, to upwards of £50,000 from the USA , Caribbean and South America.

If you’re over 70 and living with a pre-existing medical condition, you must declare them so we can provide you with the most appropriate cover. 

Below are some of the most common medical conditions we cover for over 70s:

• Heart conditions – We cover all cardiovascular issues affecting heart function. This includes high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation .
• Chronic illnesses –  Nearly 95% of adults 60 and older are living with at least one chronic condition. We provide cover for cancer , Crohn’s disease , gallstones and other long-lasting chronic conditions.
• Respiratory problems – Respiratory conditions include asthma , and COPD , leading to airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties.
• Neurological conditions – These are disorders affecting the brain and nervous system. This includes strokes , epilepsy and multiple sclerosis .
• Diabetes – Disruptions in insulin production or usage affecting blood sugar levels, including diabetes .
• Musculoskeletal conditions – Conditions that affect your bones, muscles, and joints, including back problems and osteoporosis .
• Mental health – We provide cover for mental health too, including anxiety and depression.

Find the best over 70s Travel Insurance for your trip

AllClear offers many types of Travel Insurance so you can choose one that’s right for your trip. 

Examples include:

• Single Trip Travel Insurance offers full protection extending for up to 45 days, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.
• Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance covers you if you’re planning on taking two or more holidays over 12 months. It may also be more cost-effective than buying Single Trip Travel Insurance for each holiday.
• Group Travel Insurance covers between two to ten travellers. This makes it a fantastic option if you’re travelling with friends and family.
• Cruise Travel Insurance provides essential cover for all aspects of your cruise. This includes onboard medical emergencies, cruise cancellations, cabin confinement and lost luggage. Around 30% of UK cruise customers are over 70 years old, with a further 33% between 60 and 69 years old, and it’s important to be covered for any unexpected issues you could face.
• Looking to enjoy some activities during your travels? Optional Sports and Activity cover is also available for pastimes like golfing . We’ll even cover your electronics with our gadget cover .

Countries covered by over 70s Travel Insurance

We provide Over 70s Travel Insurance for every destination. However, the region of cover you need will depend on where you’re heading.

Here’s what we cover:

• UK Travel Insurance provides cover for your UK trips for baggage and cancellation. However, we do not cover medical treatment in the UK
• European Travel Insurance will cover you on trips to European countries, as well as Egypt , Morocco and Tunisia.
• Worldwide Travel Insurance provides essential cover across the globe. You can also choose whether to exclude the USA , Canada and the Caribbean

How our Travel Insurance for Over 70s works: A simple 3 step quote process

You’ll first need to complete our quick and simple 3-step screening process.

Here’s how it works.

1. Get a quote online or by phone

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

Get your quote

2. Complete our simple medical screening process

Here, you need to declare any medical conditions you have. This way, we can provide the cover that best suits your needs.

3 . Get your quote

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

Our experts say…

“We believe that everyone should be able to travel, and the over 70’s are no exception. There’s an assumption that older people are either unwilling or unable to see the world. Our data shows that this is wrong, and that there are plenty of holidaymakers exploring well into their 70s, and beyond. However, more than any other group, senior travellers need to make sure they have comprehensive cover in place for their trip.”

Letitia Smith MSc, Travel Insurance expert

What our customers say

Our dedication to customer satisfaction has helped us understand our customers. 

With over 123,000 reviews on Trustpilot, it’s easy to see what our over 70s customers think about us.

What our Customers Say

Getting quotes for travel insurance… painless.

“Getting quotes for Travel Insurance when you are over 70 and with pre-existing medical conditions can be a painful experience. It, therefore, came as a ray of sunshine to be helped through the process by an incredibly helpful and lucid young woman. No jargon, hard sell or questions that I (doctor) didn’t understand. From start to getting the quote took a fraction of the time with other insurers and was also very competitive. Highly recommended.” – Dr Henderson

Frequently Asked Questions on Over 70s Travel Insurance

Why does travel insurance cost more when you turn 70.

Travel Insurance premiums are calculated based on several different factors. These include

• The destination you’re travelling to
• The length of your trip
• The type and severity of your medical conditions
• The level of benefits being offered to you

Does Travel Insurance have upper age limits?

AllClear Travel Insurance cover has no upper age limit. This means any traveller, regardless of their age, can buy a specialist policy.

Do you need to declare all your medical conditions for over 70s Travel Insurance?

Yes, you must declare all pre-existing medical conditions you have and that are fully within the medical warranty, even if you consider them minor or they are controlled with medication. Not declaring your medical conditions may lead to lack of cover during your trip. This could result in costly expenses if you have an accident while travelling.

For example, if you need an air ambulance from the USA back home, it could cost you between £80,000 – £100,000 without appropriate medical cover.

When should you buy over 70s Travel Insurance?

Financial expert Martin Lewis firmly believes that you should arrange Travel Insurance “ASAB” – “As Soon As you Book” to avoid being out of pocket if a medical condition forces them to cancel a trip.

You can buy your Over 70s Travel Insurance before or after you’ve booked your trip, but it must be before you travel.  Additionally, our Single Trip Travel Insurance policies can be bought 12 months before your holiday. As soon as you have secured your policy, the cover begins immediately if you have included the cancellation cover.

Alternatively, our Annual Multi-trip Travel Insurance can be bought up to 31 days before your first trip.

Do you need Over 70s Travel Insurance if you have a GHIC card?

Yes, you will still need Over 70s Travel Insurance even if you have a GHIC (previously EHIC) card. 

While a GHIC card gives you access to healthcare throughout the EU for medically necessary treatment, it will not cover you for repatriation costs (which can be extortionate) or complications relating to a pre-existing medical condition. Additionally, GHIC will not cover you for lost luggage, passports, documents, travel delays or personal liability.

What factors will affect the cost of Over 70s Travel Insurance?

In addition to your age and medical history, trip duration, destination, planned activities, personal items, and optional extras impact may impact the cost of your Over 70s Travel Insurance.

Longer trips and distant destinations often result in higher costs, while specialised cover for activities like golfing may require extra fees. 

It’s important to consider these factors when selecting your policy to make sure you have the right cover in place for your trip.

Can someone else join your Travel Insurance policy if they're under 70?

Yes, you can add someone else to your Over 70s Travel Insurance policy, even if they are under 70. 

You can find out how to add someone to your policy through our Group Travel Insurance cover or by speaking to one of our friendly members of staff .

Get the most out of your trips with our helpful guides

Where are you visiting?

Explore our helpful guides for tips to ensure you remember everything you need when travelling to one of the below destinations:

Which activities do you have planned?

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

• United Kingdom
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Golf Travel Insurance

Written by: Letitia Smith | Travel Insurance Expert Last Updated: 22 April 2024

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

Policy Wordings

Modern Slavery Statement

MaPS Travel Insurance Directory

Earn rewards by sharing with friends

• Help and Support
• Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance for seniors

A little older, a little wiser.

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

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

Covid-19 - what our travel insurance covers

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

What we cover

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

We'll cover you if:

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

What we don’t cover

You won't be covered if:

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

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

Travel insurance for over 60s

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

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

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

Choose from three levels of cover

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

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

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

Travel insurance for over 60s with pre existing conditions

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

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

Pre-existing conditions  include:

• Heart disease

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

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

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

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

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

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

The MoneyHelper directory

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

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

Registering for free treatment

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

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

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

Cruise travel insurance for over 65s

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

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

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

Cover for sports and leisure activities

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

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

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

Your questions answered

Is travel insurance more expensive for older people.

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

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

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

Is there a maximum age for Admiral Travel Insurance?

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

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

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

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

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

Can you get winter sports insurance for over 70s?

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

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

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

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

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

Travel insurance that suits you

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

Family Travel Insurance

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

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

Cruise Travel Insurance

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

Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm

Sat 9am - 4pm

Sun 10am - 4pm

• 0800 294 2969
• Single Trip Travel Insurance
• Annual Travel Insurance
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Family Travel Insurance
• Staycations
• Winter Sports
• Coronavirus
• Business Travel Insurance
• School Trip Travel Insurance
• All No Upper Age Limit Travel Insurance >
• Car Insurance
• Home Insurance
• Smart Luggage
• Life Insurance

Specialist Travel Insurance with no upper age limit

• Angioplasty
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Cardiomyopathy
• High Blood Pressure
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Breast Cancer
• Skin Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Crohn’s Disease
• Back Problems
• Osteoporosis
• South Africa
• All Africa Insurance >
• All Asia Insurance >
• The Dominican Republic
• All Caribbean Insurance >
• All Central America Insurance >
• All Europe Insurance >
• Puerto Rico
• All North America Insurance >
• New Zealand
• All Oceania Insurance >
• All South America Insurance >
• Get a Quote
• Airport Hotels & Parking
• Travel Money
• Travel Advice
• Working with Us
• Medical Advice Hub
• Brand Showcase
• Meet The Team
• Careers: Apprenticeship Scheme
• Amend your policy
• Your Questions Answered
• Make A Complaint
• Making a Claim

Travel Insurance for over 70s

Travel insurance for over 70s with pre-existing medical conditions.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, our Over 70s Travel Insurance aims to provide cost-effective, high-quality cover.

Finding over 70s Travel Insurance can be difficult and costly. At Just Travel Cover, we believe everyone should be able to enjoy their holiday and find high-quality cover that enables them to travel with peace of mind – no matter their age. Just Travel Cover works with a range of specialist insurers to provide over 70s Travel Insurance with cover for hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions,  including short and long stay Travel Insurance within a single trip policy and annual Travel Insurance policies for seniors over 70.

Medical Travel Insurance for over 70s you can rely on

Just Travel Cover is here to help you find the right seniors Travel Insurance with medical conditions cover and compare policies. We will only show you policies that meet your age over 70, and any pre-existing medical conditions you may have. We compare multiple providers to help find the right Medical Travel Insurance for over 70s policy at the best price. The cost of medical treatment abroad can be extremely high, so to avoid any unexpected expenses, it is essential that you declare all pre-existing conditions when taking out an over 70s Travel Insurance policy.

We will usually show you bronze, silver and gold policies, so you can compare Travel Insurance over 70 and pick the best medical Travel Insurance option for you.

Medical Conditions Travel Insurance: Compare and Choose

Our online quote and medical screening engines enable you to compare medical Travel Insurance for over 70s quickly and easily. We want you to look forward to your holidays without the stress of finding a well-suited policy. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or need medical treatment abroad, Just Travel Cover is here to help provide cover and we will only show you over 70s Travel Insurance options that are suitable for your medical history, duration of trip, destination, and age. The comparison is done for you, so you can have peace of mind knowing you’re Over 70s Travel Insurance is tailored to your needs and offers protection should something go wrong.

Why Just Travel Cover

At Just Travel Cover, we understand that age is just a number and shouldn’t limit your ability to explore the world. Our commitment goes beyond offering affordable over 70 Travel Insurance for pre-existing medical conditions. We are award-winning and work diligently with a vast network of insurers to ensure our clients, including those over 70 with pre-existing medical conditions, find the best medical Travel Insurance for medical conditions tailored to their unique needs. Our transparent comparison process, dedicated to providing a range of Travel Insurance policies, sets us apart. Whether you’re seeking long-stay or short-stay Travel Insurance for over 70s, trust Just Travel Cover for unparalleled service and peace of mind.

Over 70 Travel Advice

Compare over 70 travel insurance, over 70s travel insurance faqs.

Frequently asked questions about Travel Insurance for people over 70 .

What is over 70s Travel Insurance?

Travel Insurance for over 70s is designed to keep you protected while you are on holiday, and leading up to your trip.

Standard Travel Insurance policies may have upper-age limits and not cover certain age groups, especially those over 70 with pre-existing medical conditions .

Just Travel Cover works with a wide range of Travel Insurance providers to provide policies with no upper age limit for those over 70 as we believe age should not be a barrier to travel.

How much does over 70s Travel Insurance cost?

How much you pay for over 70 Travel Insurance is not just based on your age, but also on where you’re going, for how long, whether the trip includes a cruise and your medical history. It also depends what level of cover you want/need – for example if your holiday costs £5,000 you only need £5,000 cancellation cover, but if the holiday costs £30,000 you’re likely going to want to ensure your insurance covers it.

When you get a quote from Just Travel Cover you will see a list of policies, sorted by price, based on your own circumstances, so we’re comparing prices for you to find the best possible deal from our insurers. If you do require a higher cancellation limit for example, you would need to speak to a member of our team directly to arrange. It may be the case that over 70s Travel Insurance is more expensive, but it depends on a case-by-case basis. Reach out to one of our experts to discuss your options today.

When should you purchase your over 70s Travel Insurance?

As Martin Lewis recommends, you should buy over 70s Travel Insurance ASAB, as soon as you have booked your trip – that’s because on single trip policies, cancellation cover starts immediately, so if something happens that means you can no longer go on your holiday, you may be able to claim back the money you have paid. On annual policies cancellation cover starts on the day your policy starts, which can be up to 90 days in the future. Terms apply.

Do pre-existing medical conditions affect the cost of my over 70s Travel Insurance?

You should declare all pre-existing medical conditions when arranging Travel Insurance . The policy will then cover the cost of care for any pre-existing medical condition you have had in the past or suffer from now.

Where can I go with over 70s Travel Insurance?

We know retirement often means more time to explore the world, and if you’re over 70 we can help find Travel Insurance that enables you to travel anywhere, as long as the FCDO does not advise against travel. Having the right policy in place will provide peace of mind that you’re protected should something not go to plan. Depending on where you’re travelling, you can get a single-trip policy for holidays:

• up to 180 days if you’re aged between 71-75
• 124 days if aged 76-79.

Annual multi-trip Travel Insurance is available if you’re over 70 too, with a maximum trip length of 45 days.

When you’re over 70, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions , it’s important you have the right cover in place, so always look at what’s covered, as well as the price – this is not the same for all insurers.

When calculating the price of a Travel Insurance policy insurers will take a range of factors into consideration including your age and medical history, as well as where you’re going, how long for and whether you’re going on a cruise.

The price can also be impacted by the amount of cover you want/need, for example, if your holiday costs £30,000 you will need more cover than if it was £3,000.  We’ll compare prices from a range of insurers with bronze, silver and gold options,

Can I get Travel Insurance if I’m over 70 with a heart condition?

Yes, at Just Travel Cover we specialise in seniors Travel Insurance with pre-existing medical conditions and can provide cover for most heart conditions, including if you have had a heart attack. If you’re over 70 and have ever had a heart condition such as angina or an irregular heartbeat it is important you declare these when getting a quotation to ensure you’re properly covered while away.

Can I get Travel Insurance over 70 with diabetes?

Yes, our over 70s Travel Insurance policies can provide cover for type 1 and type 2 diabetes as long as this is declared when getting a quotation, alongside your age, any other medical conditions, destination, and length of trip. We will ask you a few questions regarding insulin and hospital visits before presenting several options to you from multiple insurers so you can compare Travel Insurance for over 70 and diabetes and choose the best policy for you.

Can I get Travel Insurance if I’m over 70 and living with cancer?

Yes, at Just Travel Cover we can help those over 70 and living with various types of cancer find over 70 Travel Insurance whether you’re in remission or not. We are able to provide cover for a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer and skin cancer. You should make sure the exact type of cancer is declared on your policy, and you answer all questions appropriately – we will then show you a list of providers that can provide Over 70s Travel Insurance with cancer cover. Find out more on our Travel Insurance with pre-existing condition page.

If I’m over 70, can I get Travel Insurance to cover mental health conditions?

Yes, if you’re over 70 and living with a mental health condition such as anxiety and depression, it’s important to be covered for these when you travel. Mental Health Conditions fall under the bracket of pre-existing medical conditions and should be declared when getting a quote. Our over 70s Travel Insurance policies provide up to £15m medical cover and will provide the peace of mind you’ve got the right support if the unexpected happens. When answering our medical questions, you may be asked to call us – this is so we can explain the different terms for psychiatric conditions for each insurer and provide you with some options.

Do Just Travel Cover provide home insurance for over 70s?

While we specialise in Travel Insurance, we partner with Quotezone.co.uk to provide home insurance , including options for those over 70.

I am over 70 and need Ski Insurance for my holiday. Can Just Travel Cover help?

Yes, just add the ‘winter sports extension’ when getting a quote online or tell one of our sales advisors that you need winter sports ski cover when getting an over 70s Travel Insurance policy. Please note that we only offer the winter sports extension to travellers under 75. Quotes are based on your age, medical history, duration of trip and destination.

What should travellers over 70 look for in Travel Insurance, according to Martin Lewis?

Travellers over 70 should look for the following in Travel Insurance, based on financial expert Martin Lewis’ advice:

• Medical Cover: High limits for medical emergencies and pre-existing conditions.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Ensure all conditions are declared and covered.
• Cancellation/Curtailment: Cover for trip cancellations due to health issues.
• Age Limits: Policies that cover those over 70 without high premiums.
• Repatriation: Cover for medical repatriation if needed.
• Activities: Ensure coverage for any planned activities, especially if high-risk.
• Emergency Assistance: 24/7 support in emergencies.

At Just Travel Cover, we can provide Travel Insurance for over 70s that fits this criteria.

Over 70s Travel Insurance

• Compare multiple insurers
• Bronze, Silver and Gold are available
• Hundreds of pre-existing medical conditions covered
• Emergency medical expenses up to £15 million per person
• Cancellation cover up to £12,500 per person
• Increased cancellation up to £32,500 available up to 74 and £27,500 between 75-79)
• Baggage cover up to £3,000 per person

Compare Over 70s Travel Insurance Prices From These Insurers

Click here to download the Policy Wording and Insurance Product Information document for all over 70s insurers

Medical Travel Insurance can save you a small fortune, particularly when it comes to cruising, where it’s not uncommon for unwell passengers to be taken on to dry land for medical treatment. Subsequent transportation to mainland hospital facilities and treatment can result in huge medical bills. Declaring all pre-existing medical conditions will ensure you have the correct insurance to cover you for unexpected costs.

We’re Here to Help

Our online quote and medical screening engine enables you to compare and Travel Insurance for over 70s quickly and easily. Cancellation cover starts immediately from the moment of purchase  (on single-trip policies ) for you and all the travel companions you insure under the policy, so you no longer need to worry about the unexpected and focus on getting ready for your next holiday.

Instant Cancellation Cover

Whether you’re over 70 or not, your cancellation cover (single trip policies) will start immediately.

Our online quote and medical screening engine enables you to compare and buy Travel Insurance quickly and easily.

Introducing Smart Luggage – a Just Travel Cover exclusive

Take the sting out of lost or delayed luggage with Smart Luggage: real-time payment of £50 if your luggage is delayed by 30 mins, and £500 if it is deemed lost after 48 hours – straight into your bank or PayPal account. Terms apply.

Our Latest News

8 tips for a successful multi-generational holiday

May 23, 2024 | Blogs

8 tips for a successful multi-generational holiday Multi-generational travel is becoming increasingly popular with more than half of UK families...

How Just Travel Cover helped me see the world…

May 15, 2024 | Blogs

We caught up with Mrs Norton, who took out her 30th policy with Just Travel Cover this year, ahead of a five week round-the-world-World Cruise....

Travellers risk ‘financial ruin’ without Travel Insurance, say ABTA

May 1, 2024 | Blogs

ABTA says big increase in medical costs abroad makes Travel Insurance even more essential. The travel association has warned travellers that ...

Compare prices in minutes

Copyright © 2023. Just Travel Cover

• Travel Tips Advice
• Compare Travel Insurance
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
• Holiday Home Insurance

Customer Services

• Opening Times

Victoria House, Toward Road, Sunderland, SR1 2QF

Call: 0800 294 2969

Monday - Thursday 9am - 6pm, Friday 9am - 5.30pm

Buy with Confidence

Secure Payments

UK Call Centre

Leading Broker

Justtravelcover.com is a trading style of Just Insurance Agents Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) number 610022 for General Insurance Distribution activities. Registered in England. Company No 05399196, Victoria House, Toward Road, Sunderland SR1 2QF. Our services are covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service. If you cannot settle a complaint with us, eligible complainants may be entitled to refer it to the Financial Ombudsman Service for an independent assessment. The FOS Consumer Helpline is on 0800 023 4567 and their address is: Financial Ombudsman Service, Exchange Tower, London E14 9SR. Website: www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/

Privacy Overview

Travel Insurance for Over 70s

Compare cover from as little as £17.50*.

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

What is over 70s travel insurance?

Over 70s travel insurance is specialist cover for people aged 70 and above - and with Medical Travel Compared, people within this age range can compare quotes across a range of leading providers offering this type of cover for senior citizens. 

Instead of trawling through multiple websites looking for the best travel insurance for over 70s, we compare quotes from over 30 reliable travel insurance providers in an instant to bring you all your available options – all in one place.

Choosing the right over 70s travel insurance policy takes minutes with Medical Travel Compared, so you’re free to get back to preparing for your holiday!

Specialist Medical Cover

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

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

What does travel insurance for over 70s typically cover?

Different providers will offer different things, but generally speaking, holiday insurance for those over 70 will still cover you for: 

• Cancellation
• Medical expenses & repatriation
• Theft/loss of belongings
• Personal accident

Some providers may include cover for mobility aids like crutches and wheelchairs - so it’s always worth checking whether this is the case before purchasing.

Travel insurance for over 70s with a pre-existing medical condition

The delights of travelling don’t stop as you get older. If anything, retirement gives you the perfect excuse to explore the world and visit new and exciting places.

That said, as you age you become more prone to health issues, meaning the price of your travel insurance policy is likely to go up. However, without the correct cover you could end up paying an even heftier price tag if you need medical attention while you’re abroad. 

We give you the opportunity to declare any pre-existing medical conditions you have, so you can ensure you’re always fully covered. 

We work with a range of providers who specialise in medical travel insurance - so once you tell us about your conditions we can provide the most relevant quotes for you to compare.

It’s that simple.

What is a pre-existing medical condition?

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

A pre-existing medical condition means a condition that you have been diagnosed, or treated for, prior to you taking out your travel insurance policy. This may be a health condition you have now or one that you no longer suffer from, but have had in the past. Whilst you’ll need to tell us about most pre-existing health conditions if you have been diagnosed or treated for them (including repeat prescriptions) within the last 2 years, some conditions, such as heart or respiratory-related conditions, we’ll need to know if you’ve ever had them.

Over 70s annual multi trip or single trip cover

There are two types of policies you can purchase - single trip insurance covers only one trip per policy, whereas annual multi-trip insurance can cover you for multiple trips across the year. 

It all depends on how frequently you travel.

Are there different levels of over 70s insurance cover?

Levels of cover vary from provider to provider.

What you’ll generally find is that the more expensive policies tend to have the most comprehensive level of cover. 

By the time you start comparing your ideal cover with us, you’ll have already told us about your age, destination(s) and any medical conditions you have so each quote will already be relevant to your requirements. 

It’s important to favour the cover provided over cost when you buy travel insurance. If you know your travel insurance covers all of your potential needs (especially when it comes to medical cover) then you can have peace of mind that whatever happens on your holiday, you’re protected.

You’ll also have the opportunity to select any optional extras to add to your policy. These include:

• Gadget cover
• Cruise cover
• Winter sports cover

What isn’t covered by over 70s travel insurance?

When it comes to over 70s travel insurance there may be a few notable exclusions to be aware of. 

This includes: 

• Undeclared medical conditions (before purchasing, ask yourself - which medical conditions do I need to declare? ) 
• Undeclared activities (for example, are you likely to need winter sports cover?)
• Substance abuse

Over 70s travel insurance tips

Tip 1: It pays to be organised

You can start looking for a great value insurance policy with Medical Travel Compared as soon as you know about your trip. That way, you’ll be covered in the event you have to cancel before the start of your holiday.

Tip 2: Don’t forget to add your travelling companions

If you add members of your group to your policy too, it means you’ll be covered in the event you have to cancel or cut your trip short due to a pre-existing medical condition from anyone on the policy. What’s more, they’ll have security too, meaning you can all relax knowing medical attention is there for you if you need it – you’re all covered.

Tip 3: Check the length of trip duration on annuals

The maximum number of days per trip allowed in your annual policy can sometimes vary, so make sure you check with your provider how many days you’re allowed per holiday, so you know you’re fully covered.

Tip 4: Cruise cover for over 70s holiday insuranc e

Travel agents and cruise ships will usually require you to have adequate cover before boarding. This offers you protection if you miss your departure or need medical attention while on the cruise – for example, if you fall ill and need to be airlifted to a mainland hospital.

Compare deals to get the best over 70s cover

If you don’t fancy trawling around multiple websites looking for competitive insurance quotes, we don’t blame you! That’s why Medical Travel Compared does the hard work for you by browsing over 30 leading insurance providers to bring you the best quotes from across the board.

Compare cover in minutes by filling in the application form today. The process is quick and easy and you’ll get all the information you need to make an informed decision about your policy.

We want you to feel excited about your holiday – not spend hours researching insurance online – so our service is made with you in mind. But don’t just take our word for it, see what our happy customers are saying for yourself!

Rated Excellent

Trusted by thousands of people like you who've reviewed us on Trustpilot.

No phone calls or paperwork. Join millions who've sorted cover online in minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

A pre-existing is any medical condition for which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received before applying for a travel insurance policy. For some conditions, we'll need to know if they have ever been present, whilst for others if they occurred within a certain period.

* Price is based on 1 traveller aged 73, who has no medical conditions and is travelling to France for 7 nights. The price is correct as of April 2024. Prices may vary according to your individual requirements.

Trusted by people just like you

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

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

Sign up to receive regular updates

Get the latest news, advice, travel tips and destination inspiration straight to your inbox.

What Older Travelers Need to Know About Getting Travel Health Insurance

While most of us tend to feel younger than we are — and are likely to be healthier and more fit than our parents were at our age — there's no denying that it's prudent for older travelers to think about purchasing travel health insurance coverage before taking a trip, especially when venturing outside the US. The odds of getting sick or having to address a chronic medical issue while traveling increase as we age.

At age 65 and older, many US citizens are eligible for Medicare (read about the eligibility requirements here ). Medicare, however, does not cover health care services or supplies for recipients traveling outside the country, except in rare cases.

There are three ways Medicare-eligibles can get health coverage while traveling abroad. Some specific Medigap policies (Medicare supplement insurance) provide this type of coverage. Travelers need to assess the type of Medigap policy they have and the specific circumstances under which coverage is provided. There's also Medicare Advantage and other Medicare programs (as opposed to Original Medicare) that may provide such coverage. Again, travelers need to determine the specifics of the coverage offered by their plans. But if neither of the above applies, older travelers should consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that provides health coverage.

We asked Stan Sandberg, co-founder of the travel insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com , some health insurance questions that commonly arise for older travelers. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Related: Is Credit Card Travel Insurance Sufficient?

In general, how does age affect the cost of travel insurance?

Stan Sandberg: Similar to other actuarial-based insurance products, the older you are, the more costly your insurance will be. This is true both for medical-only plans and for trip cancellation insurance. The good news is that the travel health insurance cost increases related to age aren't as great as you might expect — especially if you are healthy with no pre-existing conditions.

A sample of 23 products we offer on TravelInsurance.com shows an average price increase of just under $85 for an 85-year-old versus an 80-year-old. For healthy buyers the same ages without a pre-existing condition , the increase is less than $35. And based on a $2,000 trip (looking across the same 23 products), the average premium for a comprehensive travel insurance plan, including trip cancellation coverage, is $109.25 for a 50-year-old; $140.90 for a 60-year-old; and $183.99 for a 70-year-old. So the increase is about 30% from ages 50 to 60, and about 30% from ages 60 to 70.

Do all, or some, policies have age limits?

Some policies, in particular travel medical policies, have an age limit. But for most trip cancellation policies, travelers won't start seeing fewer plans until they celebrate their 101st birthday!

What is the difference between annual travel insurance policies and single trip insurance for older travelers?

Annual plans cover multiple trips taken during a one-year period. Irrespective of age, however, the coverage limits of annual plans are cumulative, so a traveler could theoretically exhaust the benefits with a single claim on a first trip. Since seniors often have more time to travel, annual plans can be attractive to those who travel more than four times a year. But potential purchasers should carefully compare the costs and coverage of an annual plan with those offered as Medicare supplements.

What about obtaining insurance when you have pre-existing medical conditions? Is there any way around such exclusions?

Most policies exclude losses that stem from a pre-existing condition. (A pre-existing condition is defined as any prior injury, illness, disease or other type of medical condition for which a person sought care in the six to 12 month period prior to the effective date of the policy.) However, some policies offer a "pre-existing condition exclusion waiver" that allows coverage of pre-existing conditions. To qualify, purchasers must meet certain requirements. These typically include:

• Purchasing the travel insurance policy within a defined time period (usually seven to 21 days from when the initial payment for the trip was made. )
• Travelers need to insure 100% of their pre-paid and nonrefundable trip costs.

We recommend that travelers speak to a licensed agent and read the fine print before purchasing a policy with an exclusion waiver.

What do travelers who do a lot of cruising need to know about travel health insurance?

Most travel insurance plan benefits apply to cruisers and non-cruisers alike, but some plans will have certain benefits [like] returning to land for medical evacuation that are designed specifically for cruisers.

What additional protections does trip cancellation and interruption insurance offer?

Although it adds to the cost, this option can cover the reimbursement of trip costs due to a range of unexpected circumstances — from last-minute illnesses to severe weather and natural disasters.

A Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade offers the most flexibility, reimbursing up to 75% of total trip costs for a cancellation of any reason up to 48 hours prior to trip departure. This benefit also has to be purchased within seven to 21 days of the initial trip payment and 100% of pre-paid and nonrefundable trip costs need to be insured.

What is medical evacuation insurance? What does it cover?

Generally speaking, emergency medical evacuation coverage will pay for transportation to the nearest hospital or medical facility that can treat you if one is not available at your location.

The coverage may also cover Medical Repatriation or the cost of transportation back to the US when your condition improves and you're cleared to travel home. Policies may also include coverage for transporting children home if you are hospitalized for an extended period. Or if you're traveling alone, the coverage may pay to bring someone to your bedside if you have an extended hospital stay.

In the event of a death during a trip, some plans may also include Return of Remains coverage that would cover the cost of bringing back the deceased.

What are some other caveats to keep in mind when pricing travel health insurance?

Pricing can vary somewhat between states, so the state where you reside may affect pricing. And remember, even if you have coverage from a Medigap plan, it can have deductibles, lifetime coverage limits up to $50,000 and limitations on trip length.

If you are traveling in a group, you might ask the sponsor about the availability of group travel insurance. Group plans are designed for easy administration by a group leader, who manages member sign-ups and changes — and the pricing for group plans doesn't change based on a traveler's age.

Thus, for senior travelers, group policies may be more cost-effective compared to nongroup, individual policies. However, individual policies can have higher coverage limits and more options available if travelers want to tailor their coverage.

Related: The Best Credit Cards With Travel Protections

Bottom Line

Buying travel health insurance is complicated under any circumstances because it's difficult to compare products (policies) from different insurers and wade through the fine print. But for older travelers — for whom the costs of insurance tends to be higher and the purchasing options fewer — these decisions can be daunting.

Of course, travelers always need to first understand the benefits and limitations of the health insurance policies they currently have in place (think: Medicare and private health insurance) to determine what additional coverage is necessary to protect their health as well as the financial investment in a trip.

Third-party insurance sites — like TravelInsurance.com , Squaremouth.com and InsureMyTrip.com — can help consumers compare the provisions and costs of different policies and, hopefully, avoid potential landmines.

Comparison sites like these offer consumers the ability to chat online, speak to agents by phone, and/or correspond by email after hours to help answer specific policy questions. In addition, the sites can help connect travelers with insurance providers in the unlikely event of the need to file a claim.

Feature photo by Hero Images / Getty Images.

Everything You Need to Know About Insurance for Seniors

Our experts help you find the affordable insurance coverage you deserve.

SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines

Thank you for your inquiry

Someone will be in touch shortly

While we cannot prevent the unexpected, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones by making wise insurance decisions. In this guide, learn about the wide range of insurance options available, from medical and dental to life and long-term disability. Get familiar with crucial details on insurance eligibility, cost savings, and types of coverage.

Additional Resources for Different Types of Insurance

• Burial insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Car insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Dental insurance for seniors May 21, 2024
• Home insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Life insurance for seniors May 17, 2024
• Long-term care insurance April 3, 2024
• Medigap insurance April 3, 2024
• Medicare and Medicaid May 9, 2024
• Medicare Advantage (Part C) insurance November 20, 2023
• Renters insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Travel insurance May 2, 2024
• Vision insurance for seniors May 21, 2024

Want to learn more about the different types of insurance for seniors? Our resources provide everything you need to know, from dental insurance to travel insurance and everything in between.

Our Recommendations for the Best Insurance Plans

• Best burial insurance April 3, 2024
• Best car insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Best cheap car insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Best cheap life insurance for seniors April 17, 2024
• Best dental plans for seniors May 14, 2024
• Best home insurance for seniors April 3, 2024
• Best life insurance for seniors January 30, 2024
• Best life insurance without a medical exam April 23, 2024
• Best Medicare Part D plans May 17, 2024
• Best Medigap plans February 5, 2024
• Best Medigap plans for cancer patients May 8, 2024
• Best Medigap plans for healthy seniors November 17, 2023
• Best Medigap plans for low-income seniors April 8, 2024
• Best term life insurance for seniors January 30, 2024
• Best travel insurance for seniors April 19, 2024
• Best vision insurance for seniors January 2, 2024
• Best whole life insurance for seniors May 8, 2024

Whether you’re looking for a life, car, dental, vision, or Medigap plan, we’ve got you covered. Our team has reviewed insurance carriers across various categories to help you find the best plans for your needs.

Our Latest Medigap Reviews

• Aetna Medigap review November 17, 2023
• Americo Medigap review May 2, 2024
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Medigap review May 21, 2024
• Cigna Medigap review May 1, 2024
• Colonial Penn Medigap review May 1, 2024
• Humana Medigap review May 15, 2024
• Mutual of Omaha Medigap review May 1, 2024
• UnitedHealthcare Medigap review May 1, 2024

Millions of older adults enroll in Medigap plans to fill in the gaps that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. We’ve reviewed popular carriers to help you find the right plan for your needs and budget.

As we age, there are several types of insurance to consider, from long-term care and life to dental and vision insurance. We'll look at each type of insurance and what it entails below!

Table of Contents

Medigap insurance, medicare advantage, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, long-term care insurance, auto insurance, burial insurance, travel insurance, rv insurance.

With Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), you may be left with out-of-pocket costs that can wreak havoc on your wallet. One solution is enrolling in a Medigap plan through a private insurance company such as Aetna, Cigna, or Humana.

Medigap, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, helps fill in the gaps with Medicare’s coverage. For adults who became eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020, eight Medigap plans offer varying levels of coverage. This gap coverage helps lower your expenses for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Remember, not all insurance companies sell Medigap in your state, and premiums can vary significantly by carrier. Your personalized Medigap premium may be based on your age, gender, marital status, where you live, and if you smoke.

Take advantage of these two resources for Medigap insurance guidance:

• U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
• State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP)

Wondering when the right time to purchase Medigap insurance is? Open enrollment begins the month you turn 65. During this time, you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state with “no questions asked.” This means it's federally mandated that Medigap providers cannot deny you insurance, even if you have preexisting or current health conditions. 1

From the pros: Medigap is not the same as Medicare Advantage. A Medigap policy supplements your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage, while with a Medicare Advantage plan, you receive Medicare benefits, including medical, dental , vision, and hearing care.

Let's face it. Medicare can be complicated and confusing. If you have questions or want to learn more about Medicare, watch our “Introduction to Medicare” video below.

You may bundle your internet and phone service, but did you know you can bundle your health coverage, too? Medicare Advantage plans provide a range of health and wellness care for comprehensive coverage.

If you sign up for a Medicare Advantage (also known as Medicare Part C) plan, it provides your Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) coverage. Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional coverage, such as Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D), vision, hearing, dental, or health and wellness programs.

Pro Tip: Having difficulty deciding between a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan? Visit our Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage guide for a side-by-side comparison.

Medicare Advantage plans typically require enrollees to use in-network providers. They may also require a referral to see a specialist. Before locking in a plan, verify whether your current physicians are in-network. Private insurance companies sell Medicare Advantage plans, so premiums vary greatly based on the company and how the policies are rated. Be sure to obtain at least three quotes to review and compare.

Did you know you might qualify for free health insurance? Watch the video with our Editor-in-Chief, Jeff Hoyt, below for more information!

Many different types of insurance may offer dental coverage. You can also purchase private dental insurance, a great way to protect your teeth and an excellent safeguard against paying 100 percent out-of-pocket. There are also free and low-cost dental care options for older adults, but coverage and access may be limited.

Dental Coverage Explained

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), in the years after you turn 60, several eye diseases may develop that can change your vision permanently. The earlier you detect and treat these problems, the more likely you can retain good vision. 3

You can customize your vision insurance based on your personal eye care needs and budget. From affordable plans to supplement your Medicare benefits to premium vision insurance with extended coverage, you'll have a wide range of carriers, policy types, and price points to explore.

Avoid surprise costs and denied claims by asking the insurance carrier about these potential budget busters:

• Is there an enrollment fee?
• Are there waiting periods for major services?
• Are in-network providers required?
• Is the policy stand-alone, or is bundling (such as with a dental plan) necessary?
• What are the copays and deductibles?

Losing sleep worrying about what will happen to your loved ones when you're gone? You're certainly not alone. Many older adults are weighed down by the fear of their spouse, partner, or children being left with outstanding mortgages, car, credit card payments, and medical expenses. Life insurance provides peace of mind that our loved ones will not be financially overextended.

Your monthly life insurance premiums are based on the type of policy purchased. As with long-term care insurance, purchasing life insurance when you're in good health affords you lower premiums and a lower risk of denial.

Several other factors may affect your coverage and cost, including:

• Overall health
• Preexisting conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol
• Smoking status

Before purchasing a life insurance policy, you must understand the differences between term life and whole life insurance. No matter what type of policy you opt for, always pay your insurance policy premiums on time; if you let your policy lapse, you lose all coverage.

>>Read More: Life Insurance Calculator

Term Life Insurance

• Covers you for a set amount of time (such as 10, 20, or 30 years)
• Premiums may be more affordable than whole life insurance
• No savings option; the only value of term life is the guaranteed death benefit
• Some term life policies can be converted to whole life insurance
• Once the term has ended, there may be an option to renew (in a new age bracket)
• Not all term life insurance offers guaranteed renewal; you may be denied coverage

Pro Tip: With older adults living longer, it's more important than ever to confirm your whole life insurance policy's “age expiration.” For example, New York Life's whole life insurance is only payable to age 95, while United of Omaha is payable to age 100. 4

Whole Life Insurance

• Provides coverage for your entire life
• Fixed premiums
• Some whole life insurance policies pay dividends
• Builds cash value on a tax-deferred basis
• Ability to borrow against your policy’s cash value

According to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), 70 percent of people turning 65 after 2020 will need long-term care (LTC) services at some point in their lives. The harsh reality is that long-term care comes at a hefty price. According to Genworth's Cost of Care Survey, the 2024 national estimated median cost of long-term care in an assisted living facility is $66,126 annually. A private room in a nursing home is $120,304 annually. 6

LTC is for people who need daily living assistance and/or skilled medical care for chronic illnesses such as memory loss. The main types of long-term care facilities are assisted living centers and nursing homes . LTC is also integrated with residency in select retirement communities.

You can purchase long-term care insurance through a private insurance carrier such as Mutual of Omaha or The Hartford. Many of the services covered by LTC insurance plans are not covered by private medical insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. For example, Medicare doesn't cover LTC (also called custodial care) if that’s the only care you need.

To learn more about LTC insurance, watch the video below. Our editor-in-chief, Jeff Hoyt, explains everything you need to know.

When shopping for auto insurance for seniors, it's essential to explore all of your options. Many older adults make a costly mistake by staying with the same auto insurance company for decades. Shopping around provides mature drivers the opportunity to find the best policy that meets their needs at a competitive rate.

Pro Tip: Auto insurance laws vary. Before you lock in a policy, confirm the minimum insurance coverage required.

Potential auto insurance discounts include:

• New retiree discount
• U.S. military veteran discount
• Defensive driver course discount
• Low mileage per year discount
• Multivehicle policy discount
• Bundling homeowners and auto insurance discount

Did You Know: Older drivers are much safer and get in fewer accidents than previous generations, according to recent research.

As older adults plan for potential end-of-life expenses, some opt for burial insurance to lessen the financial burden on surviving family members. Burial insurance, also referred to as final expense insurance, is typically offered to adults aged 50 to 85. This insurance helps pay for funeral costs and outstanding debts upon your death.

Depending on the type of burial, the costs can be sizable. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the 2021 national median cost of a funeral, viewing, and burial was $7,848, while viewing and cremation was $6,971. 6

>>Read About: Funeral Costs Calculator

Social Security provides a death benefit; however, it is extremely minimal. The Lump Sum Death Payment (LSDP) through the Social Security Administration issues a surviving spouse or child with a special lump-sum death payment of $255 if they meet certain requirements. 7

It's important to note that older adults can fall victim to burial insurance scams . Take time to verify the burial insurance carrier is a licensed agent.

Did You Know? The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides veterans with benefits that include burial aid.

You can rest easy knowing your loved ones will not be taken advantage of during their time of grief; the Federal Trade Commission's Funeral Rule requires funeral providers to give accurate, itemized pricing and various other disclosures about funeral goods and services to consumers. 8

If you're concerned about debts left behind after you or a loved one passes, watch the video below.

Ready to make the most of retirement or older adulthood? Traveling with a partner, friends, or group is a fantastic way to explore different destinations, cultures, and cuisines. While it's unnecessary, travel insurance ensures you're protected on (and before) your trip.

Did You Know? You may have coverage for foreign travel emergency health care with a Medigap plan. Check for coverage via Medicare's 24/7 chat option, or by phone at 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). TTY users can call 877-486-2048.

Travel insurance may cover:

• Trip cancellation
• Medical treatment for preexisting or unexpected health problems
• Medical evacuation to return home
• Lost or stolen luggage

Adventure is out there! Whether you live in a retirement community or are aging in place with a snazzy recreational vehicle parked in your driveway, RV insurance is a must-have.

As you research insurance options, check out AARP RV insurance through The Hartford.

Medicare.gov. (2021). When can I buy Medigap?

Medicare.gov. (2021). Dental services .

American Optometric Association. (2021). Senior Vision: Over 60 Years of Age .

Mutual of Omaha. (2022). Help take the financial burden off your loved ones .

LongTermCare.gov. (2022). How Much Care Will You Need?

National Funeral Directors Association. (2022). Statistics .

Benefits.gov. (2021). Social Security Lump Sum Death Payment .

FTC. (2020). Complying With the Funeral Rule .

What would you like to share with us?

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

What to Know Before Buying Travel Insurance for Cancer Patients

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

Can travel insurance cover people with cancer?

Who needs a pre-existing medical condition waiver, how to choose among travel insurance companies, companies that offer travel insurance with cancer coverage, other tips for getting insurance for your trip, travel insurance for cancer patients recapped.

Most plans with pre-existing medical condition coverage require purchase within 20 days of an initial trip deposit.

Generally, non-emergency care and/or expected complications as a result of your diagnosis won’t be covered.

Different companies sell plans with different coverage limits. Read the fine print.

Finding the best travel insurance for your trip can be tricky, even more so if you’re planning a trip and have a pre-existing medical condition like cancer, as some plans don’t cover issues that might arise as a result of this diagnosis (or may limit coverage to specific situations).

Fortunately, you can still enjoy the peace of mind that travel insurance offers, even if you have a medical condition.

Here’s what to know about travel insurance for cancer patients, including what it covers, how it works and which insurance companies have suitable plans.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

Travel insurance protects against financial losses and other risks from unexpected events that occur when traveling. Policies cover the expenses and inconveniences incurred from delayed flights, canceled reservations, lost or delayed luggage, injuries and even illness.

That said, not every illness is covered, as not every policy offers protection for those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Within the umbrella of coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, cancer patients are wise to scout out policies that cover cancer-related treatment during a trip. In the off chance that you need unexpected care because of your condition — or perhaps you need to cancel your trip or cut it short due to medical reasons — you want to be able to be reimbursed for all the payments you've made so far.

Most of the time, non-emergency care and/or expected complications that are a result of your diagnosis won’t be covered.

Without coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, companies will not likely reimburse you for emergency expenses, medical care, last-minute flights home or any other trip interruptions/cancellations due to your medical status.

Understanding how this sort of coverage works is important because not every traveler qualifies for a pre-existing medical condition waiver when it comes to obtaining travel insurance with cancer.

Requirements vary from one insurance company to another, so always make sure to read the fine print and details of your particular policy before purchasing.

But in general, you’ll likely need to meet at least one of these conditions:

You’ve had to seek medical care and/or received a diagnosis or treatment within a certain number of days before purchasing your policy.

You’re taking doctor-prescribed medication.

You’ve exhibited symptoms.

As far as the policy itself is concerned, a few more limitations may apply to qualify for the waiver, such as:

Your policy must cover the full purchase cost of your trip.

You bought your policy within a certain number of days of making your first paid booking or reservation (the exact number varies from company to company).

You were OK to travel, medically speaking, when you purchased the policy. 

» Learn more : Can I get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

When it comes time to purchase a travel insurance plan, start by comparing options from multiple companies. If in doubt, reach out to the company’s customer service team for clarification. Each company is different and has different requirements and limitations.

» JUMP to learn more about companies to consider

Once you've generated a quote, peruse individual plans from each company, focusing primarily on the details of pre-existing condition coverage. Also consider other helpful protections like cancellation coverage, trip delay or interruption coverage, lost luggage insurance and more.

When comparing policies, pay attention to coverage amounts to make sure what’s offered is enough to bring you peace of mind.

Make sure to start your search for travel insurance early, ideally within a few days of making your first booking, since pre-existing condition waivers often require early purchase — if you don’t buy a plan within a set amount of time (usually 14-20 days) after your initial trip booking, you may not qualify.

» Learn more: Trip cancellation insurance explained

To compare plans, we searched for coverage for a 45-year-old traveler from New York planning a weeklong trip to Portugal.

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

NerdWallet analysis found Travel Guard by AIG offers top-notch coverage for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions.

Provider overview:

A pet bundle may be available as an upgrade if you’re traveling with a furry companion.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage is offered as an optional add-on, but only for some plans, and it only covers 50 percent of your trip cost (versus the more typical 75%).

» Learn more : AIG Travel Guard insurance review: What to know

Allianz Travel

• Annual or single-trip policies are available.
• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

For pre-existing conditions to be covered with Allianz Travel plans, you’ll have to purchase one within 14 days of your first trip-related payment.

Most plans include pre-existing medical conditions automatically.

Emergency medical transportation is a separate benefit from emergency medical, which may be beneficial if costly air or ground transport is required to get you to a hospital.

Plans include coverage to help cover redeposit fees if you booked travel with points or miles and had to cancel travel for a covered reason. 

Emergency medical coverage is low, comparatively speaking, considering the cost of plans.

» Learn more : Allianz Travel insurance review: Is it worth it?

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

With high coverages for accident and sickness medical expenses in a premium plan, this insurance is a good option for those worried about bills they may rack up if they need to seek medical care abroad. You will need to purchase coverage within 20 days of your first trip booking to qualify for pre-existing condition coverage.

Provider overview :

Offers an annual multi-trip plan that includes coverage for pre-existing conditions after it’s been active for 60 days.

Several other plans offer coverage for pre-existing conditions automatically: Trip Protection Elite, Trip Protection Choice and Trip Protection U.S.A.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage is also available as an add-on with the Trip Protection Elite plan.

More budget-friendly economy plans don’t include pre-existing conditions waivers or CFAR upgrades.

» Learn more : Seven Corners travel insurance review: Is it worth the cost?

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

While Travelex Insurance Plans plans that cover pre-existing conditions may be more expensive than some of the options listed here, plans tend to be comprehensive. Plus there are plenty of add-ons available that may help build the perfect protection for you and your trip. You must purchase your policy within 15 days of your first travel booking and payment (three days for US-based travel).

Children accompanying you on your travels are included in the pricing of the Travel Select plan.

You have the option to double your medical coverage with a Medical Expense Coverage upgrade.

You can upgrade your plan to include an adventure sports package.

Not all policies include coverage for pre-existing conditions.

» Learn more : Travelex travel insurance: What to know

Before you start packing, here are some other tips for procuring travel insurance for those with cancer:

Check to see if you already have a credit card that offers trip insurance . While your pre-existing condition may not be covered via your card, you could potentially pair your card's existing coverage with a more basic/economy third-party plan that includes pre-existing conditions coverage.

Even if you don’t have the whole trip booked and paid for, make sure you purchase coverage in the amount of everything you’ve paid for so far within the purchasing window for pre-existing coverage. If you make more reservations later, you’ll have to update your policy coverage amount at that time, usually within a set amount of days. Read your policy info for time limits.

Choose the best policy for you based on not just the policy cost, but also what you need and what is covered.

If you have cancer, travel insurance can seem complicated. Indeed, it’s important to make sure the coverage you select will take care of you should you need it. As long as you understand the requirements of selecting a plan and what it does and doesn’t cover, you can still find a policy that works for you.

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: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit 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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.