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Easily compare policies for your travels
Don’t let unexpected events spoil your trip. Find tailored travel insurance in minutes.
Compare single, annual cover & more
What is travel insurance?
Sometimes called “holiday insurance”, travel insurance protects you and your family from unexpected incidents like cancellations, lost luggage, delayed flights, medical emergencies, and repatriation; incidents that can quickly turn a dream holiday into a costly nightmare. Comparing policies will help you find a good policy that perfectly matches your travel plans and specific needs.
What type of travel insurance do I need?
Choosing the right type of travel insurance depends on your travel habits and destination. So that your cover suits your exact needs, consider extra cover options (add-ons). This may increase your insurance premium, but it brings peace of mind knowing you have protection against unexpected costs and emergencies.
Single-trip
One of the cheaper options as this only covers you for one specific trip for a set duration. This option can be cheaper than annual cover.
Annual multi-trip
Annual travel insurance covers you for every trip you take (within your chosen covered locations) in a set period, usually 12 months.
Cruise travel insurance
Standard insurance with cruise-specific insurance, like missed port stops or cabin confinement due to illness.
Backpacker insurance
Cover for extended travel across multiple countries during one trip that typically lasts between two to 18 months.
Winter sports cover
Policies for skiing, snowboarding or other winter sport activities including cover for equipment like skis and snowboards.
Business travel insurance
Tailored protection for business-related risks — from work electronics to unforeseen extra travel expenses.
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Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is recommended but not always required; some countries require travel insurance as part of their visa or entry requirements. Travel insurance could be a lifesaver if something goes wrong while you’re away. Without it, you could be left with a big bill, for example, if you fall ill abroad and need to stay in hospital for a long time, which could cost tens of thousands of pounds.
How do I get a travel insurance quote?
Comparing travel insurance is easy as 1,2,3 — see if you could save money with LifeStage Compare:
Add trip details
We’ll want to know details like where you’re travelling to, how long for, who is going, what you want to cover, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
Get matched with cover
You’ll be presented with cover options that match your selected requirements. You can easily compare policies – bear in mind cheapest isn’t always best!
Buy your policy
After you’ve checked the policy offers the right cover for you, there’s not much else to do other than buy!
Then all that’s left is for us to wish you a very happy travels! Bon voyage!
Top tip: Buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip so you’re covered from the start i.e. for cancellations.
Instant quotes from top UK insurance providers
Compare quotes from leading UK providers in minutes and find the right travel insurance policy for you and your trip.
How to save on your travel insurance?
1
Be honest about medical conditions
While it might increase the premium, you may end up paying more if you do make a claim and it is rejected. So always remember to be honest.
2
Choose the right policy type
Single trip is cheaper if you only travel once a year. An annual policy is better value if you plan multiple trips.
3
Increase your excess
Higher excess can lower your premium but make sure you can afford it if you need to claim.
4
Specify your destination accurately
Policies for ‘Worldwide excluding USA/Canada/Caribbean’ are usually cheaper than full ‘Worldwide’ cover as medical costs are higher in those regions.
5
Group travel cost
If travelling with others, a joint policy can often be more cost-effective than taking separate policies.
6
Check existing cover
Some bank accounts or credit cards offer basic travel insurance. While convenient, always check the details for the level of cover and exclusions to ensure it meets your needs.
7
Bundle with other insurance
Check if your existing insurer (insurer you use for car, home or pet) offers discounts for bundling travel insurance with them.
8
Avoid unnecessary add-ons
Only add cover for activities you will do (e.g. winter sports, cruise cover).
9
Shop around and compare quotes
Use a comparison website. Remember to also check directly with insurers, as not all appear on every comparison platform
10
Buy cover immediately
Buying travel insurance as soon as you book your trip means your cancellation cover starts immediately.
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FAQ's
Does my EHIC/GHIC card replace travel insurance?
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) has replaced the existing European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) but neither replaces travel insurance. The EHIC/GHIC card gives you access to free, discounted (if the country is in the EU) or the same treatment as if you were a local resident (if non-EU country has a reciprocal agreement with the UK). It doesn’t cover private medical treatment, repatriation to the UK, trip cancellation or lost baggage — this is why travel insurance is essential!
Can I get travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes, you can but you must make sure you’re honest and declare all conditions when getting a quote. Some medical conditions require specialist cover that can increase your premium. However, not declaring a condition could make your policy invalid and your insurance will not provide the protection you need.
What do I do if my flight is cancelled?
You should contact your airline or travel provider to see what alternative arrangements they can make or for a refund. If you’d like to make a claim for non-refundable expenses such as accommodation or tours due to cancellation, get in touch with your travel insurer as soon as possible. Make sure you keep all documentation.
Is my cruise covered by standard travel insurance?
Often no. Cruises have cruise-specific related risks and for this you will require an additional add-on to a standard travel insurance policy.
What’s the difference between cancellation and curtailment?
Cancellation cover protects you if your trip is cancelled before you leave. Curtailment cover protects you if your trip has to be cut short after you’ve already started your holiday for covered reasons. Both cover non-refundable costs.
How do I make a claim on my travel insurance?
If you’re looking into how to make a claim, it sounds like your trip may not have gone to plan. We’re sorry to hear that, but remember your travel insurance is precisely for these moments! Your first step is to contact your insurer as soon as possible, even while abroad, if it’s an emergency. You’ll typically need to complete a claim form and provide supporting documents like police reports (for theft or loss), medical notes (for illness or injury), or receipts. Always keep originals and note your claim reference. Your policy documents will have all the specific instructions you need to help you.
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The protection offered through the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) applies to our regulated financial advice services only. Insurance comparison services are not regulated and not covered by FSCS protection.
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