Find clear, practical answers to common questions about UK travel insurance, from medical and COVID-19 cover to cancellations, lost luggage, and pre-existing medical conditions. These FAQs will help you choose the right single-trip or annual multi-trip policy for your next journey.
Travel insurance protects you from unexpected costs if your trip doesn’t go as planned. It covers emergencies such as illness or injury abroad, lost baggage, cancellations, and travel delays. Without it, you could face large expenses, particularly for overseas medical treatment or repatriation.
The right travel insurance depends on how often and where you travel. For one-off holidays, a single-trip policy may be ideal. If you travel several times a year, an annual multi-trip plan can save time and money. Always make sure your policy includes medical cover, cancellation, and baggage protection suited to your destination.
Standard travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, travel delays, and personal liability. Optional extras can include winter sports, cruise cover, or gadget protection. Always review the policy document for full terms.
Most UK travel insurance policies now include COVID-19 cover as standard (under pandemic cover) for medical treatment abroad, cancellation, or quarantine. Always check your policy wording to confirm exactly what’s included. Some insurers also offer enhanced COVID-19 protection for extra peace of mind.
The cost of travel insurance depends on your destination, trip length, age, and medical conditions. Comparing travel insurance quotes helps you find the right protection at the best price.
Most policies cover flight cancellations caused by illness, injury, or unforeseen emergencies. You’ll usually be reimbursed for pre-paid expenses like accommodation and excursions. Always review your policy to check what types of cancellation are covered and the claim limits.
Many insurers cover missed departures caused by transport delays, road accidents, or breakdowns. You may be reimbursed for additional travel or accommodation costs needed to continue your journey. Check the policy wording for qualifying reasons and required proof.
Yes, most policies include baggage cover for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage. Compensation limits vary by insurer, so check your policy schedule for details. Keep receipts or evidence of value to support your claim.
Many policies cover cutting your trip short due to illness, injury, or family emergencies. This is called curtailment cover and usually reimburses unused travel or accommodation costs. Always review exclusions and the claims process before travelling, and be sure to check with the claims provider before booking any return journey.
Some policies cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen passport, including emergency travel documents and related expenses. Always check if passport cover is included before purchasing your travel insurance policy
Some insurers provide cover for pre-existing medical conditions if they are declared when purchasing your policy. Others may exclude certain conditions or charge a higher premium. Always answer medical screening questions honestly to ensure valid cover.
No — travel insurance provides short-term cover for emergencies while travelling, including medical treatment abroad, cancellations, and baggage loss. Health insurance is long-term cover for routine and specialist medical care in your home country.
No - Generally speaking, travel insurance must be bought before you begin your trip to ensure the fullest possible cover.
Yes — family or group policies can cover multiple travellers under one plan. Each traveller must be listed on the policy, and cover limits may apply per person. Check your schedule to confirm who’s included and any age-based restrictions.
Being familiar with the different sections of a travel insurance policy allows you to select the coverage that best suits your needs, providing protection against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, so that you can travel with complete peace of mind.
The accident and liability portion of your travel insurance policy covers any medical expenses, injuries, or fatalities that may occur as a result of accidents while traveling, and also protects you from legal responsibilities if you inadvertently cause harm or damage to third parties during your trip.
The cancellation and curtailment section of a policy provides reimbursement for costs if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, emergencies, or other covered events, ensuring that non-refundable expenses like flights, accommodations, and pre-paid activities are protected.
The medical expenses component covers the cost of emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation, and any necessary transportation resulting from illness or injury that occurs during your travels, ensuring that you receive financial support to manage health-related emergencies abroad.
The missed departure section offers coverage if you are unable to board your flight or other form of transportation due to delays, accidents, or other covered circumstances, reimbursing costs for rebooking, alternative travel arrangements, or other necessary expenses.
The baggage section of your travel insurance policy covers the loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings during your trip, reimbursing you for the cost of replacing essential items and providing compensation for any baggage that is delayed, ensuring protection for your personal property.
The winter sports section, often provided as an optional add-on to standard travel insurance cover, provides coverage for accidents, injuries, and the loss or damage of equipment while taking part in winter sports activities, such as skiing or snowboarding, including reimbursement for medical expenses, equipment rental, and other related costs that may arise during your sporting activities.
Planet Voyage Travel Insurance is arranged by Planet Voyage Travel Insurance, which is a trading name of Chase Heptons Ltd (Companies House Number: 13603286). Chase Heptons is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FCA Firm Reference Number 1015079. Registered office: New Century House, 17-21 New Century Road, Basildon, Essex, SS15 6AG.