Travel insurance for over 65s: what you need to know
As we get older, travel becomes one of life’s greatest joys, and for many over 65, it’s a chance to
Compare travel insurance quotes
- Get the right cover for you and enjoy peace of mind on your trip
- Enjoy a year of savings from over 300 brands with MoneySpider Premium Rewards when you purchase a policy [1]
Why compare travel insurance
Fill in one simple form, compare the quotes from up to 15 travel insurance providers and you could save time and money.
You can compare travel insurance from the UK's biggest brands
Compare travel insurance in 3 easy steps
Provide information
Enter a few details so we understand what you are looking for.
Compare quotes
Save money by comparing instant quotes online.
Apply online
You can then apply online and your application will be processed directly by the travel insurance provider.
Do I need travel insurance?
Whether or not you need travel insurance depends on several factors, including your personal circumstances, the nature of your trip, and your risk tolerance. Consider where you’re travelling and the type of trip you’re embarking on. For example, if you’re heading to a remote or adventurous destination, participating in high-risk activities, or planning an expensive holiday, travel insurance might be essential. It’s also important to think about the level of health coverage you’d need, as well as the potential risks of trip cancellations, interruptions, or issues like lost or delayed baggage.
In the event of a medical emergency or a natural disaster, travel insurance can cover emergency medical evacuation and repatriation to your home country. It can also protect you if your travel provider, such as an airline or tour operator, goes bankrupt, covering the cost of rescheduling flights or accommodation. Some policies include personal liability coverage, which can be useful if you accidentally injure someone or damage property while travelling. If you plan to rent a car, travel insurance with rental car coverage could be beneficial.
Ultimately, many travellers choose travel insurance for peace of mind and to minimise financial risks. Weighing the cost versus the potential benefit can help you decide whether it’s worth it for your trip.
Types of travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance
Provides coverage for one specific trip or holiday. You can choose the duration of cover, although some insurers may have limits on how long the policy can last.
Multi-trip insurance
If you frequently travel throughout the year, annual multi-trip insurance may be a cost-effective option. This policy typically covers multiple trips within a 12-month period, with each trip lasting up to 28 days.
Backpacker insurance
Ideal for extended trips, often spanning multiple countries. It typically caters to individuals, couples, families, or groups embarking on longer journeys.
Group travel insurance
Covers multiple people under a single policy. This is often a more affordable and convenient option for families, friends, or organised groups travelling together.
European travel insurance
Typically more affordable than worldwide coverage and includes destinations within continental Europe. Some nearby countries, such as Turkey or Tunisia, may also be included under European travel insurance, depending on the provider.
Worldwide travel insurance
For destinations beyond Europe. It often comes in two variations: Worldwide cover including the USA, Canada, and the Caribbean or Worldwide cover excluding the USA, Canada, and the Caribbean.
What does travel insurance usually cover?
Travel insurance typically provides protection against a variety of unexpected events and expenses that may arise before or during your trip. This includes medical expenses, lost baggage, emergency repatriation, cancellation cover, travel disruption and legal protection.
Typically travel insurance doesn’t cover missed flights, car hire, pre-existing medical conditions, adventure/extreme sports, drug and alcohol related incidents, travel against official advice or if you want to cancel your trip because you’ve changed your mind.
What affects the price of travel insurance?
The cost of travel insurance varies depending on several factors. Insurers consider details such as the age of the traveller, trip duration, and destination. Coverage type, limits, and optional add-ons like adventure sports or rental car protection can also impact the premium. Pre-existing medical conditions, deductibles/excess amounts, and the number of travellers covered all play a role in determining costs.
Other considerations include claim history, whether you choose a group policy, and when you purchase the insurance. For frequent travellers, annual multi-trip policies may offer better value than individual trip insurance.
Your optional extras
Travel insurance providers often offer optional extras, also known as add-ons or endorsements, which allow you to customise your policy to better suit your specific travel needs. These include:
Trip disruption cover
Trip extension
Missed departure
Cruise cover
Winter sports coverage
Travel gadget insurance
Excess waiver
Tips for your search for travel insurance
To secure the deal to suit your needs, assess your travel requirements and book your insurance as soon as your trip is confirmed. Compare policies carefully, noting coverage limits, exclusions, and any optional add-ons. If you’re travelling in a group, ask about discounts, as insurers often offer group rates.
If you’re a frequent traveller, an annual multi-trip policy may save you money. Opting for a higher deductible can also lower your premiums. Keep in mind that some policies may exclude pre-existing medical conditions or have age restrictions. Lastly, choose flexible policies that allow adjustments if your plans change, and always review exclusions to avoid surprises.
FAQ
Need more help?
What is a pre-existing medical condition, and how does it affect travel insurance?
A pre-existing medical condition is a health condition that you have before purchasing a travel insurance policy. Many insurers require you to declare pre-existing conditions when applying for coverage. Some policies may exclude coverage related to pre-existing conditions, while others may offer coverage with additional premiums or medical assessments.
Can I purchase travel insurance if I'm already abroad?
It’s typically more challenging to purchase travel insurance once you’ve already begun your trip. Most policies require you to purchase coverage before you depart from your home country. However, some insurers may offer limited options for coverage while abroad.
Can I cancel my travel insurance policy if my plans change?
Most travel insurance policies allow you to cancel within a specific time frame after purchase, typically within a “cooling-off period.” During this period, you may be eligible for a full refund if you haven’t yet travelled or made a claim. Be sure to review your policy’s cancellation terms.
What should I do if I need to make a claim on my travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process, which may involve providing documentation, receipts, and evidence of the event or expenses for which you’re claiming.
Can I purchase travel insurance for a one-way trip or open-ended travel plans?
Many travel insurance policies are designed for round-trip journeys with specific departure and return dates. However, some insurers offer policies for one-way trips or extended travel plans. Be sure to inquire about these options when searching for coverage.
Recent guides & articles
How travel insurance can save your holiday (and your wallet)
When you’re planning a trip, travel insurance might not be at the forefront of your mind, but it’s one of
Travel insurance tips for families: protecting your loved ones abroad
Travelling with the family can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with its own unique
