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Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited. Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ Registered in England and Wales No.1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registration number 202810. The Financial Services Register can be accessed through www.fca.org.uk

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• Have suffered or are suffering from a heart- or cancer-related condition.
• Have received medical advice or treatment or been prescribed medication (whether or not it was taken) in the last 12 months, including repeat prescriptions.
• Are awaiting medical investigation, awaiting a diagnosis, receiving treatment or awaiting treatment.
• Cross-country skiing (on recognised tracks)
• Dry slope skiing or snowboarding
• Skiing or Snowboarding (on piste, or off piste with a qualified guide)
• Snowmobiling, ski-dooing or ski-bobbing
• Snow shoeing
• Tobogganing
• Any hazardous activity unless we have specifically agreed to it in writing
• Any activity you do as a professional, or in a race or competition
• Any activity carried out against local warnings or advice
• Any activity if it is not carried out in a safe way
• Any activity if you act irresponsibly or put yourself in needless danger
• Certain activities if the activity is the sole purpose of your trip

We will use your information to assess your insurance application and the terms on which cover may be offered. We may exchange your information with other insurers, reinsurers or other carefully selected third parties in order to manage your policy and offer you the best possible service. We will also obtain information about you from credit reference agencies to check your credit status and identity. The agencies record our enquiries but your credit standing will not be affected.

Direct Line insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited (UKI). The information you give us may be used by owned brands within UKI to submit to and check your details with fraud prevention agencies and other organisations. If you provide false or inaccurate information, we will record this. We and other organisations may use and search these records to prevent fraud and money laundering.

• Everyone insured under the policy is a resident of the United Kingdom
• Cover is only available for trips that haven't yet started when cover is purchased, and that both start and end in the United Kingdom
• There are no known reasons why anyone would need to cancel or curtail the journey
• Nobody insured under this policy has had any insurance cancelled or declared void by an insurer
• Is currently taking or should be taking prescribed medication for an existing condition
• Is currently suffering from or has suffered from a heart condition (including heart attack) or cancer related condition
• Is awaiting a medical investigation, surgery or treatment
• Is suffering from any other medical condition
• Accessibility
• Telematics privacy

©1999-2021 U K Insurance Limited

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited. Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ Registered in England and Wales No.1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registration number 202810. The Financial Services Register can be accessed through www.fca.org.uk .

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Direct Line Travel Insurance: Your Key to Secure and Seamless Journeys

Direct Line Travel Insurance is a trusted name in the industry, renowned for its commitment to providing comprehensive coverage and exceptional customer service. With a history of reliability, Direct Line has become a go-to choice for travellers seeking peace of mind during their journeys.

Read more:  Xcover Travel Insurance: Your Ultimate Safety Net

Table of Contents

Importance of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not just an optional expense; it’s a safeguard against unexpected events that can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, having the right insurance ensures you’re protected financially and can focus on enjoying your travels.

1. Features of Direct Line Travel Insurance:

Coverage options:.

Medical Expenses

Direct Line covers a spectrum of medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and outpatient care. This ensures you receive necessary healthcare without worrying about excessive costs.

Trip Cancellation

Life is unpredictable, and so are travel plans. Direct Line’s trip cancellation coverage reimburses non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or family emergencies.

Lost or Stolen Belongings

Protect your belongings with Direct Line’s coverage for lost or stolen items. This includes valuable items such as passports, electronics, and luggage, providing reimbursement for the inconvenience caused.

Emergency Assistance

Direct Line goes beyond insurance by offering 24/7 emergency assistance. Whether you need medical advice, travel assistance, or emergency evacuation, their dedicated support team is just a call away.

Policy Customization:

Tailoring Coverage to Specific Travel Needs

Every traveller is unique, and so are their needs. Direct Line allows you to customize your coverage, ensuring you pay for what matters most to you, whether it’s adventure sports coverage or additional protection for valuable items.

Add-Ons and Extras:

Enhance your protection with optional add-ons and extras. These may include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, rental car protection, or even coverage for activities like scuba diving. Direct Line’s flexibility caters to the diverse needs of travellers.

2. Benefits of Choosing Direct Line:

Reputation and reliability.

Direct Line has earned its reputation through years of providing reliable and trustworthy services. Their commitment to transparency and fair dealings has made them a trusted choice for countless travellers.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Real experiences speak louder than promises. Positive customer reviews highlight Direct Line’s efficiency in handling claims, prompt customer support, and overall satisfaction. Hearing from other travellers can instil confidence in your choice.

Awards and Recognition

Direct Line’s excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. Multiple awards and industry recognition underscore their commitment to delivering top-notch travel insurance services. Recognition can serve as a testament to the company’s dedication to quality.

3. How to Purchase Direct Line Travel Insurance:

Online purchase process.

Direct Line’s online platform simplifies the purchase process. The user-friendly interface allows you to input your travel details, customize your coverage, and receive a quote promptly. The straightforward process ensures you get the protection you need without unnecessary hassle.

Customer Support and Assistance

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, Direct Line’s customer support is readily available. Whether you need clarification on coverage details or assistance with the application, their knowledgeable support team is just a phone call away.

4. Comparison with Other Travel Insurance Providers:

Highlighting unique selling points.

Direct Line stands out in the crowded travel insurance market. Unique selling points include their transparent pricing, customer-centric approach, and the ability to tailor coverage. Understanding these distinctions helps you make an informed decision.

Price Comparison

While price shouldn’t be the sole factor in choosing insurance, it’s a crucial consideration. Direct Line’s competitive pricing, coupled with its comprehensive coverage, positions it as a valuable choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Customer Satisfaction Ratings

Explore customer satisfaction ratings to gauge the overall experience of travellers with Direct Line. High satisfaction ratings indicate not just affordability but also the reliability and effectiveness of their services.

5. Tips for Making a Claim:

Step-by-step guide.

Filing a claim can be intimidating, but Direct Line provides a step-by-step guide to simplify the process. From documenting the incident to submitting necessary forms, the guide ensures you navigate the claims process with ease.

Document Requirements

Understanding what documents are required when making a claim is essential. Direct Line provides clarity on the necessary paperwork, ensuring you’re well-prepared and speeding up the claims approval process.

Customer Support during the Claim Process

Direct Line’s commitment to customer support extends to the claims process. Their dedicated team is there to assist you throughout, providing updates and guidance to alleviate any concerns during a stressful time.

6. Travel Insurance Industry Trends:

Overview of trends in travel insurance.

Stay informed about the latest trends in travel insurance. From evolving coverage options to advancements in digital services, Direct Line adapts to industry changes to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Direct Line’s Response to Industry Changes

Direct Line doesn’t just follow trends; it sets them. Discover how the company responds to industry changes, implementing innovations to stay ahead and provide enhanced services to its customers.

Clearing Up Misconceptions

Are there any hidden fees not mentioned in the pricing breakdown?

Direct Line is committed to transparency, and there are no hidden fees. All costs are clearly outlined.

Is travel insurance only for international trips?

No, Direct Line provides coverage for both domestic and international trips, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Is Direct Line Travel Insurance only for international trips?

Can I customize my coverage based on my specific travel requirements?

Yes, Direct Line provides flexibility, allowing you to tailor your coverage to match your unique circumstances.

What types of medical expenses are covered by Direct Line Travel Insurance?

Direct Line covers a range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and outpatient care.

How does Direct Line handle trip cancellations?

Direct Line’s trip cancellation coverage reimburses non-refundable expenses in case of unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or family emergencies.

What belongings are covered in case of loss or theft?

Direct Line’s coverage extends to lost or stolen items, including valuable items such as passports, electronics, and luggage.

How does Direct Line provide emergency assistance during travels?

Direct Line offers 24/7 emergency assistance, providing support for medical emergencies, travel assistance, and emergency evacuations.

Can I add coverage for specific activities, such as adventure sports?

Yes, Direct Line allows you to customize your coverage, including options for specific activities like adventure sports.

Is travel insurance necessary for short domestic trips?

Direct Line offers plans for various travel needs, including short domestic trips, ensuring comprehensive protection.

How quickly can I expect a response when filing a claim?

Direct Line aims for a swift and efficient claims process, with many customers reporting timely resolutions.

What additional services or add-ons does Direct Line offer?

Direct Line provides optional add-ons and extras, allowing you to tailor your policy with services like coverage for pre-existing medical conditions or rental car protection.

Can I purchase Direct Line Travel Insurance for a group of travellers?

Yes, Direct Line offers options for group travel insurance, ensuring all members are covered during their journey.

Are there discounts available for frequent travellers?

Direct Line may offer discounts for frequent travellers or specific promotions. Check their website or contact customer support for current offerings.

What sets Direct Line apart from other travel insurance providers?

Direct Line stands out with transparent pricing, a customer-centric approach, and the ability to tailor coverage to individual needs.

Is Direct Line Travel Insurance suitable for business trips?

Yes, Direct Line provides plans suitable for business trips, addressing specific needs such as trip cancellations or emergency medical coverage.

Direct Line Travel Insurance offers a comprehensive and flexible solution for your travel protection needs, backed by a stellar reputation, customer satisfaction, and industry recognition. As you plan your next adventure, consider the security and peace of mind that come with Direct Line Travel Insurance. Choose a partner that understands your unique needs and is committed to ensuring your journeys are memorable for all the right reasons.

For in-depth policy details and to explore coverage options, visit Direct Line’s official website.

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How to Find the Best Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

How much does travel insurance cost, types of travel insurance, how to get travel insurance, what to look for in travel insurance, best travel insurance comparison sites, which insurance company is best for travel insurance, when to skip travel insurance, travel insurance, recapped.

Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, emergencies, trip interruptions, baggage, rental cars and more.

Cost is affected by trip length, pre-existing medical conditions, depth of coverage, your age and add-ons.

You can get it through credit cards or third-party companies, & can shop on travel insurance comparison sites.

Before buying, evaluate risks, know existing coverage, obtain quotes online and review policy details warily.

Skip it if you buy flexible airfare and hotels, already have coverage or only book refundable activities.

Booking travel always carries some degree of uncertainty. Travel insurance provides a safety net so you can step out with confidence. You may not need travel insurance for inexpensive trips, but it can provide a sense of security when you prepay for pricey reservations, a big international trip or travel during cold and flu season, which can be unpredictable.

According to insurance comparison site Squaremouth, travelers in 2023 spent an average of $403 for comprehensive coverage, compared to $96 for medical-only policies. Comprehensive plans typically cost between 5% and 10% of the insured trip cost.

Since that price tag is no small amount, it helps to know how to shop smart for travel insurance. Here's how to find the right travel insurance plan for you and your next adventure.

Depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for, the chart below will help you determine what to look for when selecting a policy:

Depending on the policy, travel insurance reimburses you or offers services when something goes awry. There’s even coverage for the worst-case scenario: if you die in an accident while traveling. Accidental death coverage pays your beneficiary a lump sum in that case.

Before you buy, take a little time to get familiar with different types of travel insurance products, how it’s priced, and what it covers and excludes. If you’re traveling during these uncertain times, you’ll want to make sure that the policy you select covers coronavirus-related emergencies. Usually, the more thorough the coverage, the more it will cost.

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

Length and cost of the trip: The longer and more expensive the trip, the higher the policy cost.

Cost of local health care: High health-care costs in your destination can drive up the price of trip insurance.

Medical conditions you want covered: Conditions you already have will increase the cost of travel insurance coverage.

Amount and breadth of coverage: The more risks a policy covers, the more it will cost.

Your age: Generally the older you are, the higher the price.

Any optional supplement you add to your policy : Cancel For Any Reason , Interrupt For Any Reason and more.

Keep these factors in mind when considering different travel insurance options.

You’ll find a wide selection of travel protection plans when you shop for a policy.

Typically, travel insurance is sold as a package, known as a comprehensive plan, which includes a variety of coverage.

Here are seven of the most common types of travel insurance:

Travel medical insurance

These plans provide health insurance while you’re away from home. Although in some ways these policies work like traditional health plans, generally you cannot use travel health insurance for routine medical events. For example, a routine medical checkup is usually not covered. In addition, these policies often include limitations on coverage and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

Although most travel insurance plans cover many recreational activities, such as skiing and horseback riding, they often exclude adventure sports, such as skydiving or parasailing, or competition in organized sporting events. You may need to buy a special travel policy designed for adventure or competitive sports.

International travel insurance

Most likely, your U.S.-based medical insurance will not work while you’re traveling internationally, and Medicare does not provide any coverage once you leave the United States outside of a few very specific exemptions. If you plan on traveling abroad, purchasing travel medical insurance could make a lot of sense.

» Learn more: Travel medical insurance: Emergency coverage while you travel internationally

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if the tour operator goes out of business or you have to cancel the trip for one of the covered reasons outlined in the policy, such as:

Your own illness.

The illness or death of a family member who’s not traveling with you.

Natural disasters.

Trip interruption insurance covers the nonrefundable cost of the unused portion of the trip if it is interrupted due to a reason outlined in the policy.

Trip delay coverage reimburses you for expenses such as lodging and meals if you’re delayed during a trip (e.g., your flight gets canceled due to weather ).

Many package policies cover all three. These policies are different from the cancellation waivers that cruise lines and tour operators offer, the Insurance Information Institute says. Waivers are cheap, ranging from $40 to $60, and often include restrictions. For example, according to the institute, waivers might not refund your money if you cancel immediately before departure. Waivers are technically not insurance policies.

Some companies offer additional layers of coverage at extra cost. “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage will reimburse a large part of the trip cost, no matter why you back out. And some companies let you pay extra to cover pre-existing conditions if you cancel for medical reasons.

Some insurers and comparison sites let you customize a policy by choosing types of coverage a la carte. For example, TravelInsurance.com is a comparison site that provides quotes from different providers.

Baggage and personal belongings

How does lost luggage insurance work? This coverage reimburses you for baggage and personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged during the trip. Some plans also reimburse you for extra expenses if you experience a baggage delay for more than a certain period, such as 12 hours.

Your renters or homeowners insurance may cover personal belongings while you are traveling. It’s best to review your homeowners insurance policy to determine the level of coverage it provides so you do not end up paying for a benefit you already have.

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

This coverage pays medical expenses if you get sick or injured on a trip . Medical evacuation coverage pays for transporting you to the nearest hospital, and medical repatriation pays for flying you to your home country.

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

24-hour assistance

This service is included with many package plans. The insurer provides a 24-hour hotline that you can call when you need help, such as booking a flight after a missed connection, finding lost luggage, or locating a doctor or lawyer.

Generally, travel insurance companies do not cover sports or any activity that can be deemed risky. If you’re thinking of incorporating adventurous activities into your vacation, choose a plan that includes adventure sports coverage.

Most travel insurers cover a wide array of services, but the specific options vary. Some plans include concierge services, providing help with restaurant referrals, tee time reservations and more. Many services also offer information before the trip, such as required vaccinations. The only way to know what’s included is to read the policy.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

This coverage pays a lump sum to your beneficiary, such as a family member, if you die in an accident while on the trip. Accidental death and dismemberment insurance policies also pay a portion of the sum to you if you lose a hand, foot, limb, eyesight, speech or hearing. Some plans apply only to accidental death in a plane.

This coverage may be duplicative if you already have sufficient life insurance, which pays out whether you die in an accident or from an illness. You may also already have accidental death and dismemberment insurance through work, so it's best to check your policies to ensure you’re not overpaying.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

Rental car insurance pays for repairing your rental car if it’s damaged in a wreck, by vandals or in a natural disaster. The coverage doesn't include liability insurance, which pays for damage to other vehicles or for the medical treatment of others if you cause an accident and are held responsible.

Ask your car insurance company whether your policy will cover you when renting cars on the trip. U.S. car insurance policies generally don’t cover you when driving in other countries, except Canada.

Car insurance requirements are complex because they vary among countries. You can usually purchase liability insurance from the rental car company. Learn about car insurance requirements by searching for auto insurance by country on the U.S. Embassy website .

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

Single trip insurance plans are a great option for those going on a single trip for a specific length of time (e.g., a two-week vacation) and then returning home. The price of the policy is usually determined by the cost of the trip.

Long-term travel policies cover you for multiple trips, but there are limitations to how long you can be away from home, if you can return home during your travels and how many trips you can take. In addition, trip cancellation and interruption coverage is either not offered or capped at a dollar amount that can be significantly below the total cost of all the trips taken during the covered period.

Long-term travel insurance plans — often called 'multi-trip' or 'annual travel insurance' — are a suitable option for those who travel often and are satisfied with the amount of trip cancellation coverage for all the trips they take over the duration of the policy.

» Learn more: How annual (multi-trip) travel insurance works

Below, we include how to obtain travel insurance, along with the pros and cons of each option.

Some credit cards offer trip cancellation and rental car insurance if you use the card to book the trip or car.

When you book a trip with your credit card, depending on the card you use, you may already receive trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

Here are a handful of credit cards that offer varying levels of travel insurance coverage for purchases made with the card.

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

• Rental car insurance: Up to $75,000.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

• Rental car insurance: Up to the actual cash value of the car.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

Cons: You can’t customize the insurance to meet your needs. Most credit cards offer secondary car rental insurance, which pays for the costs not covered by your regular car insurance plan.

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

You can buy travel insurance when you book your flight, hotel and car rental.

Pros: Buying is as quick and easy as clicking “yes” when you book reservations. Coverage is inexpensive.

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance

Travel insurance comparison sites

You can compare different policies and review quotes at once based on the trip search criteria you’ve input into the search form. Examples include marketplaces like Squaremouth or TravelInsurance.com.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs and compare policies and pricing in one place.

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs. Many travel insurer websites also offer information to help you understand the coverage.

Cons: You’ll need to go to multiple websites to compare coverage and pricing.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Keep these tips in mind when you’re considering a trip insurance policy.

Evaluate the financial risks you face when traveling. Can you bear those costs yourself, or do you want insurance?

Examine what coverage you already have: Does your credit card offer travel insurance? Do you have renters or homeowners insurance to cover belongings? What is the deductible? Will your health plan cover you in all the locations where you travel?

Get quotes for trip insurance online. Choose a package of the benefits you need and compare prices for similar coverage among carriers.

Narrow your choices and then read the policy fine print to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded and the limits on coverage. You may find that the lowest-priced policy is too restrictive and that paying a little more gets you the coverage you need. Or you might find that the cheapest, most basic policy fits the bill.

If you don’t know which provider to go with, it makes sense to browse a list of plans on a travel insurance comparison site. These online marketplaces will often include plans from the best travel insurance companies along with customer reviews.

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

Under its Zero Complaint Guarantee, Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will remove a provider if any customer complaint isn't resolved to its satisfaction.

Has a filter option to see policies that provide COVID-coverage.

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

See good and poor customer ratings and reviews for each insurer when you receive quotes.

“Learning Center” includes travel insurance articles and travel tips, including important how-to information.

Quotes provided from each provider include a link to COVID-19 FAQs, making it easy for customers to review what’s covered or not.

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

“Anytime Advocates” help customers navigate the claim process and will work on behalf of the customer to help with appealing a denied claim.

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

Search coverage by sporting activity, including ground, air and water sports.

Many types of plans available for students, visiting family members, new immigrants, those seeking COVID quarantine coverage and more.

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

Over 5,600 customer reviews on Trustpilot, with an average 4.9 stars out of five.

Formerly known as AardvarkCompare, AARDY includes a “Travel Insurance 101” learning center to help customers understand various policies and benefits.

Quote search results page includes COVID-coverage highlighted in a different color to make it easier for customers to review related limits.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care, COVID coverage or a policy that includes extreme sports, these providers have you covered.

Our full analysis and more details about each organization can be found here: The Best Travel Insurance Companies Today .

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

There are a few scenarios when spending extra on travel insurance doesn't really make sense, like:

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

» Learn more: When you don't need travel insurance

Yes, especially for nonrefundable trips and travel during the COVID-era. Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or have travel insurance from your credit card, you shouldn't travel without having some sort of travel protection in place to safeguard you and your trip. Travel insurance can protect you in case of an unexpected emergency such as a canceled flight due to weather, a medical event that requires hospitalization, lost luggage and more.

There are many good travel insurance policies out there and a policy that may be great for you may not be good for someone else. Selecting the best plan depends on what coverage you would like and your trip details.

For example, World Nomads offers a comprehensive travel insurance policy that has excellent coverage for adventure sports. Allianz provides coverage for trips of varying lengths of time through its single trip plans and multi-trip plans. Some providers offer add-on options like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance. If you’re not sure which plan to go with, consider looking at trip insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth or Insuremytrip.

Yes, you can. However, it's better to purchase it sooner rather than later, ideally right after booking your trip because the benefits begin as soon as you purchase a policy.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your trip cancellation benefits to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

Most comprehensive travel insurance plans offer trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and dental, medical evacuation, trip delay and lost luggage coverage. Many plans offer COVID coverage, but you’ll always want to check to ensure that the policy you choose provides that benefit if you’re traveling during these times. Some plans may also allow you to add features like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

However, the coverage provided by the credit cards is usually lower than if you purchased a standalone policy. Review the travel insurance benefits on your credit card and check that the limits are adequate before foregoing from purchasing a separate plan.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

Unpredictability is one of the mind-opening joys of travel, but travel insurance should contain no surprises. The time you spend to understand your options will be well worth the peace of mind as you embark on your next adventure.

Whether you’re seeking a single or a long-term policy, each travel insurance option offers different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right policy depends on your trip needs, your budget and how important various benefits are to you.

Keep reading

If you want to dig in deeper to world of travel insurance, these resources will point you in the right direction.

What is travel insurance?

How much is travel insurance?

Is travel insurance worth it?

What does travel insurance cover?

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

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.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 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.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 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.

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.

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of April 2024

According to our analysis of more than 50 travel insurance companies and hundreds of different travel insurance plans, the best travel insurance company is Travelex Insurance Services. In our best travel insurance ratings, we take into account traveler reviews, credit ratings and industry awards. The best travel insurance companies offer robust coverage and excellent customer service, and many offer customizable add-ons.

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

HTH Travel Insurance »

Tin Leg »

AIG Travel Guard »

Nationwide Insurance »

Seven Corners »

Generali Global Assistance »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

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 Companies.

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can help you protect the financial investment you made in your vacation when unexpected issues arise. Find the best travel insurance for the type of trip(s) you're taking and the coverages that matter most to you – from interruptions and misplaced belongings to illness and injury.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Overall
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Trip Interruptions
• HTH Travel Insurance: Best for Groups
• Tin Leg: Best Cost
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Families
• Nationwide Insurance: Best for Last-Minute Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners: Best for 24/7 Support When Traveling
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best for Specialized Coverage

Customizable upgrades are available, including car rental coverage, additional medical insurance and adventure sports coverage

Medical and trip cancellation maximum are not as high as some other companies

• 100% of the insured trip cost for trip cancellation; 150% for trip interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost, damaged or stolen bags and personal items; $200 for luggage delays
• $750 in missed connection coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Annual and multitrip policies are available

Distinguishing between the company's 10 travel insurance plans can be challenging

• Up to $200,000 in trip cancellation coverage; $300,000 in trip interruption coverage
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen luggage and personal effects; $600 for bag delays
• Up to $1,600 for travel delays
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $75,000
• Epidemic coverage

Generous coverage at the mid- and high-tier levels, and great group discounts

Preexisting conditions coverage is only available at mid- and high-tier plans

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to $50,000); 200% trip interruption coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $400 in baggage delay coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for trip delays; $1,000 for missed connections
• $500,000 in coverage per person for sickness and accidents

Variety of plans to choose from, including two budget-friendly policies and several more premium options

More limited coverage for baggage issues than other companies

• 100% trip cancellation protection; 150% trip interruption
• $500 per person for lost, stolen or damaged baggage and personal items
• Up to $2,000 per person in travel delay coverage ($150 per day); $100 per person for missed connections
• $100,000 per person in emergency medical coverage, including issues related to COVID-19

Travel insurance policy coverage is tailored to your specific trip

Information about policy coverage inclusions is not readily available without first obtaining a quote

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of your trip's cost; trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Up to $2,500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged baggage; $500 related to luggage delays
• Up to $1,000 in missed connection and trip delay coverage
• $100,000 in emergency medical coverage

Variety of plans to choose from and coverage available up to a day before you leave on your trip

Limited trip cancellation coverage even at the highest tier

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000; trip interruption coverage worth up to 200% of the trip cost (maximum of $60,000)
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage; $600 for baggage delays
• Up to $2,000 for trip delays; missed connection and itinerary change coverage of $500 each
• $150,000 for emergency medical and dental issues

Customer service available 24/7 via text, Whatsapp, email and phone

Cancel for any reason coverage costs extra

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to between $30,000 and $100,000 depending on your state of residence); interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost 
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $2,500; up to $600 for luggage delays
• Trip delay and missed connection coverage worth up to $1,500
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to between $250,000 and $500,000 (depending on where you live)

Generous emergency medical and emergency evacuation coverage

Coverage for those with preexisting conditions is only available on the Premium plan

• 100% reimbursement for trip cancellation; 175% reimbursement for trip interruption
• $2,000 in coverage for loss of baggage per person
• $1,000 per person in travel delay and missed connection coverage
• $250,000 in medical and dental coverage per person

In addition to single-trip plans, company offers specific road trip, adventure travel, flight and cruise insurance coverage

Coverage for missed connections or accidental death and dismemberment is not part of the most basic plan

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost; interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cost
• $500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged bags and personal items; bag delay coverage worth $200
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000; missed connection coverage worth up to $100
• Medical coverage worth up to $50,000

To help you better understand the costs associated with travel insurance, we requested quotes for a weeklong June 2024 trip to Spain for a solo traveler, a couple and a family. These rates should help you get a rough estimate for about how much you can expect to spend on travel insurance. For additional details on specific coverage from each travel insurance plan and to input your trip information for a quote, see our comparison table below.

Travel Insurance Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are several types of travel insurance you'll want to evaluate before choosing the policy that's right for you. A few of the most popular types of travel insurance include:

COVID travel insurance Select insurance plans offer some or a combination of the following COVID-19-related protections: coverage for rapid or PCR testing; accommodations if you're required to quarantine during your trip if you test positive for coronavirus; health care; and trip cancellations due to you or a family member testing positive for COVID-19. Read more about the best COVID-19 travel insurance options .

Cancel for any reason insurance Cancel for any reason travel insurance works exactly how it sounds. This type of travel insurance lets you cancel your trip for any reason you want – even if your reason is that you simply decide you no longer want to go. Cancel for any reason travel insurance is typically an add-on you can purchase to go along with other types of travel insurance. For that reason, you will pay more to have this kind of coverage added to your policy.

Also note that this type of coverage typically only reimburses 50% to 80% of your nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses. You'll want to make sure you know exactly how much reimbursement you could qualify for before you invest in this type of policy. Compare the best cancel for any reason travel insurance options here .

International travel insurance Travel insurance is especially useful when traveling internationally, as it can provide medical coverage for emergencies (in some cases for COVID-19) when you're far from home. Depending which international travel insurance plan you choose, this type of travel insurance can also cover lost or delayed luggage, rental cars, travel interruptions or cancellations, and more.

Cheap travel insurance If you want travel insurance but don't want to spend a lot of money, there are plenty of cheap travel insurance options that will offer at least some protections (and peace of mind). These are typically called a company's basic or standard plan; many travel insurance companies even allow you to customize your coverage, spending as little or as much as you want. Explore your options for the cheapest travel insurance here .

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance Trip cancellation coverage can help you get reimbursement for prepaid travel expenses, such as your airfare and cruise fare, if your trip is ultimately canceled for a covered reason. Trip interruption insurance, on the other hand, kicks in to reimburse you if your trip is derailed after it starts. For instance, if you arrived at your destination and became gravely ill, it would cover the cost if you had to cut your trip short.

Trip delay insurance can help you qualify for reimbursement of any unexpected expenses you incur (think: lodging, transportation and food) in the event your trip is delayed for reasons beyond your control, such as your flight being canceled and rebooked for the next day. You will want to save your receipts to substantiate your claim if you have this coverage.

Lost, damaged, delayed or stolen bags or personal belongings Coverage for lost or stolen bags can come in handy if your checked luggage is lost by your airline or your luggage is delayed so long that you have to buy clothing and toiletries for your trip. This type of coverage can kick in to cover the cost to replace lost or stolen items you brought on your trip. It can also provide coverage for the baggage itself. It's even possible that your travel insurance policy will pay for your flight home if damages are caused to your residence and your belongings while you're away, forcing you to return home immediately.

Travel medical insurance If you find yourself sick or injured while you are on vacation, emergency medical coverage can pay for your medical expenses. With that in mind, however, you will need to find out whether the travel medical insurance you buy is primary or secondary. Where a primary policy can be used right away to cover medical bills incurred while you travel, secondary coverage only provides reimbursement after you have exhausted other medical policies you have.

You will also need to know how the travel medical coverage you purchase deals with any preexisting conditions you have, including whether you will have any coverage for preexisting conditions at all. Read more about the best travel medical insurance plans .

Evacuation insurance Imagine you break your leg while on the side of a mountain in some far-flung land without quality health care. Not only would you need travel medical insurance coverage in that case, but you would also need coverage for the exorbitant expense involved in getting you off the side of a mountain and flying you home where you can receive appropriate medical care.

Evacuation coverage can come in handy if you need it, but you will want to make sure any coverage you buy comes with incredibly high limits. According to Squaremouth, an emergency evacuation can easily cost $25,000 in North America and up to $50,000 in Europe, so the site typically suggests customers buy policies with $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.

Cruise insurance Travel delays; missed connections, tours or excursions; and cruise ship disablement (when a ship encounters a mechanical issue and is unable to continue on in the journey) are just a few examples why cruise insurance can be a useful protection if you've booked a cruise vacation. Learn more about the top cruise insurance plans here .

Credit card travel insurance It is not uncommon to find credit cards that include trip cancellation and interruption coverage , trip delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage, travel accident insurance, and more. Cards that offer this coverage include popular options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card , the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card and The Platinum Card from American Express . 

Note that owning a credit card with travel insurance protection is not enough for your coverage to count: To take advantage of credit card travel insurance, you must pay for prepaid travel expenses like your airfare, hotel stay or cruise with that specific credit card. Also, note that credit cards with travel insurance have their own list of exclusions to watch out for. Many also require cardholders to pay an annual fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to buy travel insurance is normally within a few weeks of booking your trip since you may qualify for lower pricing if you book early. Keep in mind, some travel insurance providers allow you to purchase plans until the day before you depart.

Many times, you are given the option to purchase travel insurance when you book your airfare, accommodations or vacation package. Travel insurance and travel protection are frequently offered as add-ons for your trip, meaning you can pay for your vacation and some level of travel insurance at the same time.

However, many people choose to wait to buy travel insurance until after their entire vacation is booked and paid for. This helps travelers tally up all the underlying costs associated with a trip, and then choose their travel insurance provider and the level of coverage they want.

Figuring out where to buy travel insurance may be confusing but you can easily research and purchase travel insurance online these days. Some consumers prefer to shop around with a specific provider, such as Allianz or Travelex, but you can also shop and compare policies with a travel insurance platform. Popular options include:

• TravelInsurance.com: TravelInsurance.com offers travel insurance options from more than a dozen vetted insurance providers. Users can read reviews on the various travel insurance providers to find out more about previous travelers' experiences with them. Squaremouth: With Squaremouth, you can enter your trip details and compare more than 90 travel insurance plans from 20-plus providers.
• InsureMyTrip: InsureMyTrip works similarly, letting you shop around and compare plans from more than 20 travel insurance providers in one place. InsureMyTrip also offers several guarantees, including a Best Price Guarantee, a Best Plan Guarantee and a Money-Back Guarantee that promises a full refund if you decide you no longer need the plan you purchased.

Protect your trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance plans for the lowest price. Get a quote .

When you need to file a travel insurance claim, you should plan on explaining to your provider what happened to your trip and why you think your policy applies. If you planned to go on a Caribbean cruise, but your husband fell gravely ill the night before you were set to depart, you would need to explain that situation to your travel insurance company. Information you should share with your provider includes the details of why you're making a claim, who was involved and the exact circumstances of your loss.

Documentation is important, and your travel insurance provider will ask for proof of what happened. Required documentation for travel insurance typically includes any proof of a delay, receipts, copies of medical bills and more.

Most travel insurance companies let you file a claim using an online form, but some also allow you to file a claim by phone or via fax. Some travel insurance providers, such as Allianz and Travel Insured International, offer their own mobile apps you can use to buy policies and upload information or documents that substantiate your claim. In any case, you will need to provide the company with proof of your claim and the circumstances that caused it.

If your claim is initially denied, you may also need to answer some questions or submit some additional information that can highlight why you do, in fact, qualify.

Whatever you do, be honest and forthcoming with all the information in your claim. Also, be willing to provide more information or answer any questions when asked.

Travel insurance claims typically take four to six weeks to process once you file with your insurance company. However, with various flight delays and cancellations due to things like extreme weather and pilot shortages, more travelers have begun purchasing travel insurance, encountering trip issues and having to submit claims. The higher volume of claims submitted has resulted in slower turnaround times at some insurance companies.

The longer you take to file your travel insurance claim after a loss, the longer you will be waiting for reimbursement. Also note that, with many travel insurance providers, there is a time limit on how long you can submit claims after a trip. For example, with Allianz Travel Insurance and Travelex Insurance Services, you have 90 days from the date of your loss to file a claim.

You may be able to expedite the claim if you provide all the required information upfront, whereas the process could drag on longer than it needs to if you delay filing a claim or the company has to follow up with you to get more information.

Travel insurance is never required, and only you can decide whether or not it's right for you. Check out Is Travel Insurance Worth It? to see some common situations where it does (and doesn't) make sense.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world, and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

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Direct Line   Reviews

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Reviews 3.8.

19,829 total

Most relevant

Shocked by the increase

Although shocked by the increase of £265 on last years price through your auto renewal, after phoning i was able to get it reduced by £110. I still think its a lot of money but hopefully the service should be much improved if needed.

Date of experience : 24 April 2024

Renewed my home insurance via a phone call…

Renewed my home insurance via a phone call, as normal the Lady who answered the phone was very polite and eager to please in renewing my policy. Once again thank you direct line and all your staff for your polite and helpful response. thank you.

Communication is better than Silence.When I took out my car insurance I was…

When I took out my car insurance I was able to communicate with you and then decided whether to go ahead with it or not. As far as the home insurance goes I asked you to contact me before the automatic renewal process started. You have done this every year that I have been with yourselves. It’s just that I would like to know what the cost of renewal is so that I can make sure that the cover is right for me. Regards Philip

Always been great especially the Green…

Always been great especially the Green Flag last year when my car had a flat battery as a friend had not shut the passenger door properly unknown to me tso days later my car was dead Green Flag that you included in my policy were excellent were there in under half hour. Five stars for Direct Line.

Date of experience : 23 April 2024

Reply from Direct Line

I’m glad to hear we were able to help, Michelle and to hear Green Flag were able to assist you. Thank you for the positive feedback and the five-star review. Nathan

Only just purchased the dog insurance…

Only just purchased the dog insurance policy. Easy to do online and it was a good quote. I had to ring them as I wanted to clarify that it was only direct debit for payment. Someone answered the call fairly quickly and answered my questions. Hopefully if I have to make a claim it will go as well.

I’ve been with direct line for a few years

I’ve been with direct line for a few years now but unfortunately like most people I’m having to watch the pennies so having to go else where to save money I’m sorry to go but needs must. Thank you direct line

Date of experience : 26 April 2024

The person I spoke with did not try to…

The person I spoke with did not try to pressure me into deciding straight away and explained all options. He also listened to what I was saying….he also managed to reduce the premium being requested… This would not have happened on line we old farts need to communicate with people…good on you…

Holiday Insurance

We chose Direct Line for our holiday insurance after getting quotes from three other companies (we did not use comparison web sites). The process was easy, a very short phone call after a basic quote online (extra medical information required by Direct Line). The final quote was reasonable, and we already have other policies with the company (car and home insurance). The telephone assistant (Beth) was extremely polite and very helpful.

Date of experience : 17 April 2024

I have been with Direct Line for the…

I have been with Direct Line for the last four years for both motor (dual) and home insurance. In relation to motor I was actually shell-shocked by the size of DL's increase (nearly 100%): particularly as I or my wife have never made claims, and have maximum no claims. Consequently we went elsewhere, and gained the same level of comprehensive insurance for less than 8% more. As for home insurance I am satisfied with the level of price you offer, and will be staying with Direct Line. As an established and trusted provider of car insurance, you must review your charging policy or will lose much of your custom.

Couldn't recommend Direct Line Highly Enough

We were in an accident away from home. Care taken of us couldn't have been better. Taxi, courtesy car to get us home from England to Ireland all arrived quickly. Kept informed every step of the way. It was very upsetting having an accident away from home, but direct line could not have been better. We were really upset and Direct Line were so helpful, it really helped us. Highly highly recommend.

Date of experience : 01 April 2024

It’s amazing to read your review and see what a great job our claims teams are doing, Denise. Thank you.

Renewed again

I have insured my car with Direct Line for many years. I am always pleased to discuss my policy requirements with the renewal team. This year I spoke to a very nice lady named Rose who was most helpful and I was delighted with the outcome.

On line completion not good

On line completion not good, despite no alterations required, or premium query. Payment not taken, had to pay after you chased it, so phoned you yesterday and made payment. Hope documents come by post as promised, A very easy renewal in theory, but your process fairly cumbersome. Improvement neccessary please.

Date of experience : 27 April 2024

Changed address

Changed address, Direct Line wanted £50 plus to change. My other car with another company gave me a sizeable rebate. You change your address on line rather than be able to speak to a customer service representative. Seems like a way to get more money.

Date of experience : 16 April 2024

Superb Service

Car insurance, don't we all love to hate it. However, I have to say, Direct Line have been brilliant. No quibbling. No dither or delay. Really fair like for like settlement. Very nice MG3 to pootle about in. I now have a pretty, new to me, car (I was very sad to see the old one head off to the knackers yard). Policy transferred and brilliant all inclusive breakdown cover. Praise where praise is due.

Been a loyal customer for years

Been a loyal customer for years. Where does that get you with Direct Line with no claims for 6yrs+... A 46% price increase from £797 to £1171. Of course I called and stated that there were others offering the same package + no claims protection which I don't currently have... For cheaper £720-750 on a few offers. They then increased the price to £1200 something.... Didn't even try to save me or justify this ridiculous increase. I'll not be back.

Awful customer service

My car insurance went up £300 because I have an open claim. The claim is still open because Direct Line have not recovered the costs from the third party that hit me despite them accepting full responsibility. I was then lied to that this premium was going to be taken off manually and spoken to like I was an idiot. I will not be renewing with them.

Date of experience : 25 April 2024

With DIRECTLINE it is very easy and…

With DIRECTLINE it is very easy and simple to make an informed choice of the policy that suits your needs. Whilst knowing that there is the opportunity to speak to a advisor on any specific issues and details.

Terrible Experience

We recently had to make a claim and Direct Line who we have always trusted with all our insurance used the Davis Group as the Loss Adjuster. This was a terrible experience, they lied and were so unfriendly. They also price replacement goods from offshore companies who import grey goods so they do not pay duties but you will need to if you use them for your replacements. Why do Direct Line use them.

Complete rip off car insurance quote. Others around 300-400, today the quote is 1500 from Direct Line. What the actual?? What's so special about DL? Nothing. No justification in that. Car is low spec and not a young driver, so where is the rationale beyond pure greed? Needless to say, I'm voting with my feet and wallet and off to Admiral or Aviva or anyone else. I hope direct line goes bust. I'm naming and shaming these days, not putting up with GREEDY companies any longer. You disgust me.

Early notice.

Received renewal notice early so that I could compare price against what what was on the market.

• P&O Cruises ( UK )

Direct Line Travel Insurance

By soraya , March 8, 2011 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

Recommended Posts

I've just had a very interesting discussion with Direct Line and it turns out that I am not covered by their insurance for my next cruise.

I was checking to see what the max cost that they cover is for a cruise as I'm thinking/dreaming of a world cruise.

Can't believe that I'm would not be covered by them for an 18day cruise around Norway. I have worldwide annual cover that says covered for 42 day trip.

Apparently, they treat cruising differently and if you are taking a cruise you need to call and tell them and if your cruise is over 7 days you need to pay them extra. £25 extra pp in my case.

It doesn't mention that they treat cruises differently in the booklet.

Just thought that I would let people know.

Link to comment

Share on other sites, catherine janaway.

Thanks for that info, I'm just going to check with my insurance company.

When I booked with Thomas Cook they asked for details of my insurance policy but didn't mention that cruises may not be included.

I wonder why a cruise costs more :confused:

That's weird. I just called Nationwide (who use Liverpool & Victoria) and they said cruises were covered as standard.

Thanks for the info. Guess we should all check our insurance. Ours is annual, linked to the bank so we'd better get it checked out.

Is cruise insurance more in case you need air lifting or something like that?

It ought to be less, as there's qualified medical personnel and equipment on board!

capnpugwash

I've just had a very interesting discussion with Direct Line and it turns out that I am not covered by their insurance for my next cruise.   I was checking to see what the max cost that they cover is for a cruise as I'm thinking/dreaming of a world cruise.   Can't believe that I'm would not be covered by them for an 18day cruise around Norway. I have worldwide annual cover that says covered for 42 day trip.   Apparently, they treat cruising differently and if you are taking a cruise you need to call and tell them and if your cruise is over 7 days you need to pay them extra. £25 extra pp in my case.   It doesn't mention that they treat cruises differently in the booklet.   Just thought that I would let people know.

The condition should be highlighted in their documents, I suggest that you write to the FSA who govern such behaviour and lodge a complaint. There is no mention of any of this in either their Policy Document or Summary of coverage, it only advises that no trip can exceed 42 days.

I know that before I took my first proper cruise in 2005 this was mentioned on the P&O forum (not cc so hope it's OK to mention it) and I cancelled my insurance and moved it. But then Direct Line said it was all sorted. If I hadn't called I wouldn't have known. I checked in policy docs and then their website and then called because I couldn't see it.

Apparently,Ithey reckon I should know because under insured activities where they list the sports you're covered for it says yachting and sailing 12 miles from the coast - but a cruise ship isn't a sporting activity.

Am having a chat with Which? about it and am hoping they will take it up.

we discovered by accident that a lapsed policy did not cover us for cruising after we had cruised!!!) so its something I allways make sure of now ALSO -- do check the WORLDWIDE section --as the Caribbean has EXCLUSIONS and one policy we had quoted , Barbados was one of them !!!

SeaSickGill

Maybe it's just because being on a ship is seen as being more dangerous than being in a hotel I suppose.:(

I have been told by many insurance companies that they do not cover cruising unless specified, this is because in the event of a helivac it would cost an absolute fortune, also Doctors charges on board are expensive and are often used for minor problems that in normal holiday circumstances people would either self medicate or go to a pharmacy for advice.

Any one got a list of these insurance companies that dont insure cruises please

I have a work life insurance policy that also covers travel insurance Worlwide up to 30 days continuous travel.

I've just phoned my insurance company and they said I am covered for cruising - phew!

Just e-mailed my annual travel ins. provider (MRL) They said it was part of the annual policy, as long as you don't travel anywhere that the foreing office has advised against.

Glad of that as we have just come back from 2 week Caribbean Ventura cruise!

best one I have found so far is Insure and Go - cruises covered as standard.

I have been involved in the Insurance business since 1984 and I have never heard of any travel insurance that excludes cruises. There may be a couple of companies but the vast majority will offer cover as standard. The main problem is the value when it comes to cancellation cover and the length of some trips, but other than that it is normally readily available.

I had assumed that an annual travel policy includes Cruises but when it was pointed out to me that not all do I checked and my policy did not include cruises and neither did my partners ( different companies).

It is also quite a mamoth task to read the small print to check f cruising is covered.

In my experience you must always request cruise cover when you take out the policy as not all offer it as standard.

If you use the comparison sites there is no mention of cruise in the lists you get so you have no idea if you will be covered.

We both went on a cruise last year unaware that we were not insured .

please can you tell me your insurance companies

I had assumed that an annual travel policy includes Cruises but when it was pointed out to me that not all do I checked and my policy did not include cruises and neither did my partners ( different companies). It is also quite a mamoth task to read the small print to check f cruising is covered. In my experience you must always request cruise cover when you take out the policy as not all offer it as standard. If you use the comparison sites there is no mention of cruise in the lists you get so you have no idea if you will be covered. We both went on a cruise last year unaware that we were not insured .

I would imagine that unless the policy states that it doesn`t cover cruises then it will.

We took out Direct Line insurance last year as our normal insurer, whom we had been with for many years, refused to cover my husband for anything related to high blood pressure. He had been put on pills and, although the policy allows high blood pressure, it only covers you if you have been on medication for over one year and are stable. We offered to pay more but they refused.

I phoned Direct Line and took their annual policy, paying a little more, but with the assurance that he was covered for anything related to high blood pressure.

I told Direct Line we were going on a cruise. Maybe the fee was higher because of this but it wasn`t mentioned to me.

I've just looked at the front page of the Insure and Go website. Actually mentions that cruises are covered as standard, so that would mean to me that not all do by the mere fact that they mention it.

hi, we have just tried to take insurance out with SAGA and one question related to the cost of the cruise per person,it appears their maximum cancellation cover is £5000p.p therefore they would not insure us as we were on a dearer cruise than their insurance cancellation cover.....

My insurance was an annual policy with BELL ( part of AXA)cost about £65 and I found out after we had been on the first one this year that cruising was not covered when I rang then and tried to extend the cover they would not do it and I had to buy another policy to cover my 2 weeks cruise costing £29.

My partner had an annual policy with Saga ( cost about £80 I think) which also did not cover cruises, they did upgrade his policy for an extra £25. The policy ran out at the beginning of March and when they sent a quote for renewal with cruises it was £127.

My advise would be not to assume you are covered.

Unless you see it in black and white that cruises are covered in my experience they are not.

newport dave

Atlas direct cover cruises as standard, we have, my DW and I, Annual Worldwide policy which cost just £58 for the year.

We have annual cover provided free by Barclays Bank Premier Account who use Aviva. Phoned them and was assured that it covers cruises.

I have an annual policy with 'direct travel insurance' (note: not 'Direct Line'). They have confirmed to me this morning that they do cover cruises.

MattyBarlow

Yes i use Atlas Direct. they even advertise cruise insurance.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Best term life insurance for 2024

• • Life insurance
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Mandy Sleight has been a licensed insurance agent since 2005. She has three years of experience writing for insurance websites such as Bankrate, MoneyGeek and The Simple Dollar. Mandy writes about auto, homeowners, renters, life insurance, disability and supplemental insurance products.

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Natalie Todoroff is an insurance writer for Bankrate, prior to which she wrote for a popular insurance comparison shopping app. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English and has written over 800 articles about insurance throughout her career.

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Jessa Claeys is an insurance editor for Bankrate with over a decade of experience writing, editing and leading teams of content creators. She currently covers auto, home and life insurance with the goal of helping others secure a healthy financial future. Her work has been published by several insurance, personal finance and investment-focused publications, including Jerry, BiggerPockets, 401(k) Specialist, BP Wealth and more.

Kenneth Chavis IV is a senior wealth counselor at Versant Capital Management who provides investment management, complex wealth strategy, financial planning and tax advice to business owners, executives, medical doctors, and more.

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Best term life insurance companies

How to find the best term life insurance company for you, frequently asked questions.

Not everyone needs life insurance that covers you for your entire life. For anyone looking for more temporary coverage — like those with young children or a mortgage to pay off — there is term life insurance. Term life insurance provides coverage for a pre-set period of time, which is usually between 10 and 30 years. In exchange for your regularly paid premium, your beneficiaries receive a payout if you die while the policy is active. However, the payout tends to be lower compared to other types of life insurance policies. Bankrate’s guide to the best term life insurance can help you find an insurer that meets your policy needs and budget.

Compare life insurance providers quickly and easily

See which provider is right for you.

Whole life insurance combines life insurance with an investment component.

• Coverage for life
• Tax-deferred savings benefit if premiums are paid
• 3 variations of permanent insurance: whole life, universal life and variable life include investment component

Term life insurance is precisely what the name implies: an insurance policy that is good for a specific term of time.

• Fixed premium over term
• No savings benefits
• Outliving policy or policy cancellation results in no money back

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The best term life insurance companies depend on an individual’s needs and preferences. While your quoted premium will typically not vary as much as for life quotes as home or auto insurance, different companies do offer different coverage types and levels. We chose the following companies based on their third-party financial strength and J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores , as well as the policy options and available coverage capacities (the maximum dollar amount a policy can be). It may be helpful to start your research with the following providers:

Why we chose it: State Farm has the highest J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction on our list.

State Farm is our 2024 Bankrate Awards winner for Best Term Life Insurer for the third year in a row thanks to its superior AM Best score and near-nationwide availability. State Farm offers several term insurance products, but its return-of-premium policy option may be particularly helpful for certain term life insurance policyholders. This add-on coverage (also known as a life insurance rider ) lets policyholders choose between a 20- or 30-year payment term and receive a portion of their premiums back if they outlive the term. The return-of-premium policy can be renewed annually until age 95. While the return-of-premium option comes at an additional cost, it also builds cash value , which is rare in a term life insurance policy.

Why we chose it: Mutual of Omaha offers easy online quoting for its term life insurance policies and a wide array of riders for potential policy customization.

If you want to get an idea of how much term life insurance might cost, Mutual of Omaha offers a term life insurance quote tool online. Enter your gender, date of birth, tobacco usage and coverage amount to get a rate. Mutual of Omaha offers a plethora of additional riders that can be added to its term life policies. It should be noted that not every rider can be used with every type of policy. To verify how much coverage you need and which riders can be added to your policy, you may want to consult with an agent. This company also offers a locator service to help you find a financial advisor near you.

Why we chose it: Pacific Life has term life insurance policy options with high coverage levels.

Anyone wanting to tailor their term life insurance with riders or purchase higher coverage limits might consider Pacific Life for term life insurance. The carrier offers two policy options, Promise Term and Elite Term, both of which are convertible to cash value life insurance. Its Promise Term policy offers a minimum amount of $50,000 in coverage, while the Elite Term starts at $750,000 and goes to $3 million or more. Available options include a waiver of premium for disability, as well as a terminal illness and child term rider.

Why we chose it: Northwestern Mutual offers a wide array of informational resources and policy management tools online.

Northwestern Mutual is the largest life insurer in the U.S. by direct premiums written, with just over 7 percent of the total market share. The company has been insuring consumers for more than 150 years. Its term policies allow you to select your coverage period based on either a set amount of years or until a specific age, depending on which option is most suitable for you. Northwestern Mutual plans are also convertible to whole life insurance , meaning you may be able to adjust your policy as your needs evolve. The company’s A++ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best is the highest level available. However, the company only offers one term life insurance rider, so if you want greater policy customization, it may not be the carrier for you.

Why we chose it: Guardian life insurance offers four different term lengths and a long list of potential riders.

Guardian's term life insurance policies are available in four term lengths. The carrier also has a long list of riders for potential policy customization, including a guaranteed renewability clause in the event that you are diagnosed with a serious illness. However, be aware that the company does not offer a network of local agents, so if you prefer to handle your insurance needs face-to-face, you may not be satisfied with the level of service.

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a quality term life insurance policy. Since your life insurance will ultimately be responsible for providing the coverage you want for your family, these considerations may be beneficial to keep in mind when determining which provider is right for you. In addition to policy types, you could consider the following.

Consider customer satisfaction scores and financial strength ratings

Customer satisfaction scores may provide insight for consumers looking to purchase insurance products. These scores reflect how satisfied existing customers may be with the customer service and claims process. You might use these scores to get an idea of how your customer experience could be and which carrier might best fit your expectations.

A life insurance company’s financial strength score reflects its past ability to pay out claims and could help you decide if a company is financially sound. Third-party agencies such as AM Best and S&P publish financial strength ratings for each major provider.

Consider your personal situation

Term life insurance remains active for only a set number of years. To decide whether term life insurance is right for you, it may be helpful to consider what you want coverage for. Do you simply want coverage while your children are young, or would you prefer lifelong coverage?

While term life insurance may be sufficient for temporary needs, like ensuring you could pay off debt and finance college for your kids if you were to pass away, it may not be the right choice if you want coverage for longer. If you need coverage for final expenses or to take care of a lifelong dependent, permanent life insurance may be a better choice. There are several options to choose from, including:

• Whole life insurance : Whole life offers level premiums and a guaranteed death benefit for life. It also builds cash value over time, which you may be able to access through withdrawals or loans. 
• Universal life insurance : Similar to whole life, universal life offers permanent coverage with more flexibility. You can increase or decrease premium payments or the death benefit if life circumstances change. 
• Final expense life insurance : If you only need a small amount of coverage or have serious health issues, final expense life insurance may be your best option. It works like whole life, but doesn’t require a medical exam. Some policies are guaranteed issue, meaning there is no medical exam or health questions on the application. 

Compare multiple quotes

Getting quotes for different types and levels of coverage may help you get an idea of how much you’ll pay for your life insurance. However, keep in mind that term life insurance quotes for the same person and policy type likely won’t vary as much from company to company as auto insurance or home insurance quotes do.

How does term life insurance work?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance that offers coverage for a set period of time, or term. Term life is usually the most affordable type of life insurance because it only lasts for a specific number of years, usually 10 to 30 years. Unless you buy return-of-premium life insurance, you receive nothing back if you outlive the term. However, many term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a permanent life insurance policy at the end of the term. Many carriers also provide the option to renew a term life policy annually if you still need coverage past the expiration date.

What is the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Term insurance is designed to provide a death benefit if the insured passes away within the policy term. As the name suggests, term life insurance remains active for a predetermined “term,” which is the window of time that the policyholder chooses — typically between 10 and 30 years. When the term expires, the policyholder stops paying the premiums and the death benefit will no longer be paid out. Whole life insurance , on the other hand, is a type of permanent policy that pays out when the insured dies as long as premiums are paid. It typically contains two parts: a death benefit and a cash value component. Because whole life insurance policies usually have larger payouts, premiums can be two to three times more expensive than a term policy.

What factors impact my life insurance premium?

Life insurance premiums are largely based on mortality risk. In general, the higher the likelihood someone has of passing away while the policy is active, the higher the premium will be. Each insurer has its own underwriting algorithm for calculating your rate. Although each underwriting process is different, your age, gender, weight, health conditions, smoking history and occupation are typically used to help calculate your premium. The amount of coverage that you want to purchase is another key factor in determining the cost of life insurance . For those looking for cheap life insurance , it may be wiser to start shopping at a younger age.

Does having a preexisting condition impact my ability to purchase term life insurance?

Yes, having a preexisting condition may impact your ability to purchase term life insurance. Different conditions may be considered more or less serious by different insurers. If a life insurance provider does approve you for a term life policy with a preexisting condition, your premium may be high to reflect the health risks. Insurance providers may be more likely to approve you if you have conditions that can be managed. For instance, if you have Type 2 diabetes and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you may be more likely to be approved for term life insurance. If you have a preexisting condition, speaking with a licensed insurance agent may help you navigate your life insurance options.

Is term life insurance cheaper than whole life insurance?

The cost of life insurance will vary based on your policy details and personal rating factors, but term life insurance coverage is typically cheaper than whole life insurance, a type of permanent coverage. This is because whole life insurance is designed to offer coverage for your entire life and guarantee a payout to your beneficiaries, as long as premiums are paid and terms of the policy are met. Term coverage, on the other hand, may not pay out a death benefit if you outlive the policy term and do not renew your coverage. That being said, the cost of life insurance coverage varies based on coverage amount and individual risk rating factors, so a term policy with a high coverage amount for an older individual may cost more than a permanent policy for a younger applicant with a low coverage amount.

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The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Tick Travel Insurance Top Cover Review: Features, Pros And Cons

Published: Apr 24, 2024, 1:46am

When comparing Tick Travel Insurance’s pricing against cover levels in key areas, such as emergency medical expenses and trip cancellation, it is safe to argue that it’s a highly competitive player in the market. Travellers will likely appreciate the unlimited medical and $20,000 of cancellation cover available. Plus, the 24-hour medical emergency assistance line may offer added peace of mind.

However, some travellers may feel that Tick Travel Insurance’s Top Policy falls a little short on nice-to-have coverage, including lost luggage and rental car excess limits. Let’s take a closer look at Tick’s top policy offering.

• Competitive pricing
• High levels of medical and cancellation cover
• High customer service rating
• Credit card fraud not covered
• Higher levels of luggage cover elsewhere
• Missed connections not covered

Table of Contents

About tick travel insurance, what does tick travel insurance cover, does tick travel insurance cover me for covid, pricing comparison, customer service, the bottom line.

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Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Tick Travel Insurance is owned by Europ Assistance which is a part of the global Generali Group, and underwritten by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited.

Generali is a large global insurance and asset management provider, while Europ Assistance says it has a presence in over 200 countries, providing comfort and empathy to customers in emergency situations, and an immediate global response.

Tick Travel Insurance’s aim is to make travel insurance simple, covering travellers up to age 100. It offers three levels of domestic travel insurance: Basic, Standard and Top and four types of international travel insurance: Basic, Budget, Standard and Top.

This review will focus on the most comprehensive offering for international travel, being the Tick Travel Insurance Top plan.

Tick Travel Insurance provides domestic and international cover, offering policies for single trips and annual cover for multiple trips in a year. The provider covers adults up to the age of 100, while dependent children, up to 18-years-old at time of purchase, are insured for free on an adult’s policy.

As is typical of travel insurance, its policies cover trip cancellation or curtailment and journey resumption, due to unforeseen circumstances such as injury or illness, as standard. Cover for travel delay is available on the top policies, with a pay out of $100 per completed hour up to $1,000. Valid reasons for claiming include bad weather, a vehicle breakdown or strike, and experiencing a delay of more than 12 hours.

Tick Travel Insurance’s Top plan also includes the following standard benefits that form a part of most comprehensive travel insurance policies:

Lost Luggage

This insurer covers the cost of repairing or replacing your lost, stolen or damaged personal belongings up to $7,500. Take note of the $3,000 sublimit— individual limit— on how much you can claim for devices such as laptops, tablets, phones, video cameras and cameras.

Tick Travel Insurance offers unlimited medical cover, which includes cover for ambulance and emergency surgery, repatriation if necessary, and the death of you, or another person insured on the policy.

While the insurer can cover pre-existing conditions (medical conditions you had before taking out the policy), whether you will be eligible for this cover will depend on the details you provide, outlining the condition and its severity, in the medical screening section of the application.

Is Dental Cover Included?

This insurer also extends its cover to dental treatment, paying out up to $500. This is half of what many providers offer, and bear in mind that you can only claim for dental cover for situations where you need immediate pain relief.

Yes, protection against risks in relation to Covid-19 are covered by Tick Travel Insurance’s Top policy. The insurer accepts related cancellation and disruption claims, as well as medical claims for trips outside of Australia.

What About Pregnancy?

You can claim for an extensive range of pregnancy or childbirth complications up to 31 weeks into your pregnancy with this insurer. These include toxaemia, gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia.

What About Sports And Activities?

From abseiling, to jet skiing and motorcycling, insurance for 90 sports and activities is included automatically with Tick Travel Insurance.

Remember to look out for conditions for claiming. For instance, you will only be covered for three bungee jumps and can only kayak in grades 1 and 2 rapids or lower. Also, some activities may require safety gear that you will need to wear to make a valid claim.

Cover for personal liability and accidental injury only apply to certain activities, as specified in the PDS.

Compared to the competition, Tick Travel Insurance offers relatively decent to high levels of cover across the board for a super competitive price.

When comparing the price of its most comprehensive policy against those of Travel Insurance Direct and Allianz—two providers we rated highly for their comprehensive offering—it comes out on top.

The data below is based on a 28-year-old who needs insurance for Indonesia for seven days.

The above table shows how important it is to shop around for travel insurance, and weigh up your needs with your budget when comparing policies. Tick’s Travel Insurance’s Top policy is only $77, offers considerably more cancellation cover than its competitors for this price, and levies less in excess—the set portion of each claim you must pay.

However, it may not be suitable for those who need higher levels of cover in other areas such as lost luggage and rental car excess. You can find out exactly what a policy includes and excludes in its PDS, which is usually published on the insurer’s website.

You can also find out more about the comprehensive travel insurance providers Forbes Advisor Australia has independently rated the best.

Customers award Tick Travel Insurance a high score of 4 out of 5 stars across 2832 reviews on ProductReview, Australia’s leading consumer opinion site.

Satisfied customers were pleased with how simple they found the process of taking out insurance, and the price of their policy.

However, disgruntled customer complaints were varied. Some speak of technical difficulties with the provider taking payment and not offering a refund instead, trouble accessing their policy documents and rejected claims.

To speak to someone on Tick Travel Insurance’s customer service team, you can fill in the online query form or email: [email protected] .

For 24-hour emergency assistance, you can call: +612 9333 3963, and for emergencies and claims, email: [email protected] .

You can also send written correspondence to:

Customer Services Tick Insurance Australia Suite 1.04, Level 1, 19 Harris Street Pyrmont, 2009 Sydney NSW

Additionally, you can send a complaint via post, or email: [email protected] .

Tick Travel Insurance may be considered most suitable for those looking for reasonable to high levels of cover in key areas, for a competitive price. This includes unlimited medical cover and $20,000 for trip cancellation. In other areas cover levels are decent, but may not be suitable for all. Those taking away belongings worth over $7,500 or needing more than $4,000 in rental car excess may want to look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can i find the tick travel insurance pds.

A policy’s product disclosure statement (PDS) details what it covers, any exclusions and limitations or sublimits. It’s crucial that travellers read through this document before deciding whether to purchase the policy.

Typically, an insurer will provide a link to a policy’s PDS on its website. The PDS for Tick Travel Insurance’s policies, including its comprehensive cover, are also online .

What is Tick Travel Insurance’s phone number?

Existing customers and those with service queries can fill in Tick Travel Insurance’s online query form should they need assistance, or contact at [email protected].

For 24-hour emergency assistance customers can call: +612 9333 3963.

How good is Tick travel insurance?

We have awarded Tick Travel Insurance 3.7 out of 5 stars based on factors such as the unlimited amount of medical cover, and high level of cancellation cover, it provides. It also scores highly on customer review site productreview.com.au.

However, customers should note it does not cover you, if you fall victim to credit card fraud while away. Neither are you able to choose the amount of cancellation cover you need as with some other insurers. This may not be of concern, considering $20,000 for cancellation is automatically provided, which is a considerable amount, and Tick Travel Insurance policies are competitively priced.

I have been writing for newspapers, magazines and online publications for over 10 years. My passion is providing, in a way that is easily accessible and digestible to all, the knowledge needed for readers to not only manage their finances, but financially flourish.

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Best Seniors Travel Insurance
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• Best Domestic Travel Insurance
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• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
• Travel Insurance For Bali
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• Travel Insurance For The USA
• Travel Insurance For Thailand
• Travel Insurance For New Zealand
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• Travel Insurance For Europe

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Average cost of UK car insurance rises by one-third in a year, analysis finds

ABI reports annual jump of £157 in first quarter of 2024 but says 1% increase on previous quarter indicates rises are easing

The average price paid for comprehensive motor insurance in the UK was about a third (33%) or £157 higher in the first quarter of this year than a year earlier, according to figures from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Based on analysis of policies sold, the typical price paid in the first quarter of 2024 was £635, marking a 1% increase on the previous quarter, the ABI said.

In the first quarter of 2023, the average premium paid for private comprehensive motor insurance was £478.

The ABI said the 1% quarterly increase indicated an easing of the rises seen in 2023.

It said insurers were continuing to absorb growing costs, with the average claim paid rising 8% to reach a record of £4,800 over the same period.

Claims inflation has yet to stabilise, with the costs of repairs, replacement vehicles and theft all rising, the ABI said.

The ABI’s motor insurance tracker analyses nearly 28m policies sold a year, and the claims paid against policies.

The association has previously cited costs such as energy inflation, rising prices for paint and other raw materials, rising courtesy-car costs and the increased cost of secondhand cars as adding to overall cost pressures.

Over the longer term, motor insurance has tracked very close to inflation, the association said.

In real terms, prices are £8 or 1.3% higher when compared with a peak at the end of 2017, according to the ABI. This is partly because prices fell significantly during the coronavirus pandemic, it said.

It added that 2023 was a “difficult year” for motor insurance margins, and that costs for insurers to pay claims have increased by 23% in real terms since 2017.

Mervyn Skeet, the ABI’s director of general insurance policy, said: “We understand that car insurance costs are putting pressure on household finances. These figures show how competitive the motor market is, with insurers absorbing significant cost rises but keeping prices relatively stable.

“Even though these figures demonstrate a slowdown in price increases, we won’t be taking our foot off the gas when it comes to our work on tackling the cost of cover.”

In February the ABI set out steps that the industry is taking to combat the rise in the cost of motor insurance . Last week it announced that its members had agreed measures aimed at helping manage the costs for people paying for insurance on a monthly basis.

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The association said it recommended that people struggling with the cost of their cover speak to their insurer.

Earlier in April, the Treasury select committee member Dame Angela Eagle told a hearing on insurance: “My constituents and many people who write to the committee feel that insurance is becoming more of a rip-off.

“Because the price is going up, it’s harder to make a claim; people, when they do make a claim, often have to wait a very long time or aren’t dealt with very fairly.

“And that’s particularly the case for insurance that’s compulsory, such as driving insurance.”

In another Treasury select committee session later that day, Charlotte Clark, the ABI’s director of regulation, said part of the reason that rises in motor insurance might look so significant was that “it’s coming off the back of the pandemic, where motor insurance in particular was reduced quite significantly, because the risks of being in a car accident when you’re at home are quite low”.

Matt Brewis, the director of insurance at the Financial Conduct Authority, told the committee the regulator had been looking at evidence of how inflation had affected the motor sector.

He said the regulator was meeting with price comparison websites, brokers and consumers “to understand the concerns of consumers and where they are seeing issues”.

• Car insurance
• Insurance industry

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UK car insurance: insider tips on how to save money

UK drivers shocked as car insurance costs soar by up to 90%

UK drivers complain as car insurance renewal costs rise up to 70%

Direct Line ordered to review five years of car claims after underpayments

Insurers told to stop shortchanging UK drivers by undervaluing write-offs

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3 smart life insurance moves seniors should make right now

By Matt Richardson

Edited By Angelica Leicht

April 24, 2024 / 11:40 AM EDT / CBS News

When making careful financial considerations, timing plays a key role. This is especially true for insurance protections, whose benefits are heavily dependent on when a policy is purchased. If you buy in too early, you could risk paying for insurance you can't use and don't need. But, if you wait too long, you could wind up losing out on vital financial protection. The timing needs to be just right for each individual.

This importance takes on added weight for seniors , some of whom may be reliant on a limited budget made up of retirement funds and Social Security . With less money to work with, each insurance policy purchased needs to be valuable and cost-effective. And while life insurance is one of the best ways to protect your estate and loved ones in your absence, there are some smart moves to consider making now. 

With inflation still high and the prospect of interest rate cuts dim right now, seniors need to consider making select moves. Below, we'll break down three of the best ones to make.

See how much a robust life insurance policy could cost you here .

3 smart life insurance moves seniors should make now

Here are three strategic life insurance moves seniors should strongly consider right now.

Re-evaluate your needs

Unfortunately, inflation remains an issue for millions of Americans. While significantly cooled from a decades-high in June 2022 , it has steadily risen again this year. This has caused the cost of many items to remain high — and it has left interest rates stuck at their highest point in 23 years, thus causing borrowing costs to remain high as well. 

With these issues in mind, it's important to re-evaluate your financial needs. Do you have enough coverage or do you need to boost your protections? Do you want to add beneficiaries or readjust who your money will eventually go to? And will your current policy be enough to pay for any outstanding debts you ultimately leave? 

You may have purchased a policy in a very different economic climate than today's. So, re-evaluate your needs and adjust your life insurance accordingly.

Get started here today .

Consider term versus whole

Term and whole life insurance policies both offer unique benefits for policyholders. But if you're looking for the most cost-effective option (albeit without the opportunity to cash in a policy while alive ), then consider a term policy right now . These policies are relatively inexpensive (depending on your applicant profile you could pay less than $100 per month for a six-figure coverage amount) and they can still adequately cover many of the items you'd need. 

If you don't already have a policy but know you'll need one now, then a term one may be your best option.

Think about your beneficiaries

If inflation and higher borrowing costs have negatively impacted your financial situation, then it makes sense to consider how they have affected your beneficiaries, as well. The coverage amount you initially had planned for your loved ones may be insufficient now that the cost of living has risen so significantly. 

With interest rates on some borrowing products more than double what they were a few years ago, a six-figure sum may not go nearly as far as you once expected it would. It may be worth sitting down with your beneficiaries, then, to adjust your policy plans.

The bottom line

Life insurance provides vital financial protection for you and your loved ones. However, the benefits of a policy can easily be influenced by factors outside of your control. In the face of stubborn inflation and elevated borrowing costs, seniors should take a closer look at their current policies (or consider buying one now to help loved ones). They should also consider the benefits of term versus whole policies and discuss their plans with beneficiaries to ensure that the policy they're paying for now will be valuable when accessed in the future.

Have more questions? Speak to a life insurance expert who can help here today .

Matt Richardson is the managing editor for the Managing Your Money section for CBSNews.com. He writes and edits content about personal finance ranging from savings to investing to insurance.

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