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When UK residents should buy Travel Insurance
Terrorist attacks, floods, travel plans grinding to a stop because of strikes or snow storm ... all these make any traveler cringe at the idea of not being able to go on vacation and losing some money while trying to figure things out. Thankfully, buying a UK travel insurance would ensure that at least you can get money back. In the worst case scenario, you might not get to your desired destination but at least you won't lose the money in the process as well.
When I travel outside the UK, what type of travel insurance should I buy?
Ideally you should be protected in all possible cases. There are 5 major types of travel insurance, but several of them are sold "combined" so essentially you will need a travel medical insurance - which usually comprises accident and emergency evacuation as well - and trip cancellation insurance.
Depending on where you are heading to, you might not need the travel medical insurance. About 60 countries have reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK so make sure to do your homework before deciding to buy travel medical insurance. If your national insurance covers you abroad, then you only need to purchase the trip cancellation insurance.
When should I buy UK travel insurance?
Ideally, you should buy the travel insurance right after you booked the accommodation and decided what means of transport you'll be using. Otherwise, buy the travel insurance 14-21 days prior to departure.
I'm pregnant. Will I be able to buy UK travel insurance?
Most airlines and travel insurance companies allow a pregnant woman to travel until week 28. Between weeks 28 and 36 a medical certificate is required in order to prove you are fit to fly. While this is a general rule, it doesn't mean all airline and all travel insurance companies apply it. So make sure to ask in advance.
What if I have a medical condition?
This is a hard question since many UK travel insurance companies refuse to cover people with certain conditions such as cancer, epilepsy or those who had heart attacks. The UK Department of Health will be able to give you more information on what steps to take in order to benefit from travel insurance.
I travel often. What's the best travel insurance for me?
If you travel often for business or leisure, you might want to purchase an Annual Multi-Trip Insurance. It will save you both time and money.
I'm not that afraid to travel without insurance, but when must I buy it?
We all like to think that "it won't happen to me". In many cases, no, it won't happen to you, but what if it does happen? So instead of that way of thinking, try this one: think of the worst case scenario and then decide what type of UK travel insurance you will need.
Flights get canceled. Remember the airline strikes in Greece in 2008? You wouldn't want to be in that situation, would you? Whether we are talking about bad weather, airline strikes or even airline bankruptcy, flights do get canceled. All over the world. If you are flying with a low-cost carrier, the chances to get any compensation are really slim. So, your best bet is to buy a trip cancellation insurance which covers all the non-refundable travel expenses in case something unexpected happens.
Terrorist attacks. The latest terrorist attacks in Mumbai only reminded us that we are not safe. And even though it's been years since 9/11 we still cringe when we are reminded of that day. And there's more: Sharm El Sheik, Madrid and London. All these places have been targets. It only makes sense to be protected when you travel. The Travel Accident Insurance protects you (and your family) in case something terrible happens with your flight (including a terrorist attack).
Acts of God / Natural events. Floods, hurricanes, snow storms ... most of the natural events are covered by all policies. However, for example, you won't be covered in case you are caught in a lava flow. So make sure to ask what you are buying and research your destination well.
Possible dangerous activities. Going to the Caribbean for scuba diving? Excellent. Make sure your travel insurance covers that activity. Some UK travel insurance companies consider certain activities as "dangerous" and won't cover them. Usually motor sports are within that category but you can expect to find horseback riding there as well. So make sure your policy covers the activity you will be practicing.
