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Cheapest Travel Insurance Policies in the UK: How to Find the Best Cover for Less

  • Writer: Emma Patel - Personal Finance & Budgeting Specialist
    Emma Patel - Personal Finance & Budgeting Specialist
  • Apr 5
  • 5 min read

Updated: Apr 7

Travel insurance is one of those things you hope you never need — but can’t afford to be without. Whether you're heading off for a beach holiday, city break, cruise or business trip, the right policy protects you from unexpected medical bills, cancellations, lost luggage and more.


But how do you find cheap travel insurance in the UK without sacrificing essential cover? In this guide, we’ll show you how to compare policies properly, where to find the cheapest deals, which optional extras are worth it — and how to avoid common pitfalls that could cost you far more in the long run.


reviewing travel insurance policy before holiday

Why You Shouldn’t Travel Without Insurance


It’s tempting to skip travel insurance to save a few pounds — especially on a short UK or EU trip. But even a minor incident abroad can cost thousands.


Travel insurance typically covers:


  • Emergency medical treatment (often up to £10m)

  • Repatriation to the UK

  • Trip cancellation or curtailment

  • Lost or stolen baggage and personal belongings

  • Travel delay or missed departure

  • Personal liability

  • Legal expenses


Without insurance, you’d need to cover these costs yourself. And even within Europe, the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) is not a substitute — it doesn’t cover private care, repatriation or non-medical issues.


What Affects the Cost of Travel Insurance?


The price of travel insurance in the UK is based on several risk factors:


  • Destination – USA and Caribbean often cost more due to medical costs

  • Trip length – longer holidays = higher premiums

  • Traveller age – especially over 65s

  • Pre-existing medical conditions

  • Type of policy – single-trip vs annual multi-trip

  • Level of cover and optional extras




Types of Travel Insurance Policies


To find the best deal, you need to choose the right type of policy for your situation.


1. Single-Trip Insurance


  • Covers one specific holiday or trip

  • Usually the cheapest option for infrequent travellers

  • Ideal for trips under 30 days


2. Annual Multi-Trip Insurance


  • Covers unlimited trips within a 12-month period

  • Cost-effective if you travel more than 2–3 times a year

  • Often has a 31- or 60-day trip limit per journey


3. Backpacker or Long-Stay Insurance


  • Tailored for extended travel, gap years or working holidays

  • Typically covers trips from 3 to 18 months


4. Family Travel Insurance


  • Covers multiple people on one policy

  • Cheaper than buying individual cover for each family member


5. Couples Travel Insurance


  • Often cheaper than two separate single policies


Cheapest Travel Insurance Providers in the UK


Prices vary depending on your trip and health, but the following providers consistently offer competitive deals on comparison sites:


  • Coverwise

  • InsureandGo

  • Staysure (especially for over 50s)

  • Post Office Travel Insurance

  • Avanti

  • Admiral

  • AXA

  • LV=

  • Asda Money

  • Nationwide FlexPlus (packaged bank account with cover included)


Tip: Always compare at least three providers using comparison tools like:


  • MoneySuperMarket

  • Compare the Market

  • Confused.com

  • GoCompare


And don’t forget to check cashback platforms like TopCashback and Quidco. Many offer up to £20 back on new policies.



How to Find the Cheapest Travel Insurance Without Cutting Corners


Cheap shouldn’t mean useless. Here’s how to find the lowest price without compromising essential protection:


  1. Only pay for what you need – skip cover for cruises if not cruising, or gadgets if yours are already insured.

  2. Use comparison sites – don’t go direct unless it’s cheaper with cashback.

  3. Set realistic cover levels – £5m for medical cover is plenty for most trips.

  4. Increase the excess – the more you agree to pay in a claim, the lower your premium.

  5. Avoid unnecessary add-ons – e.g. winter sports if you’re headed to the beach.

  6. Bundle policies – use annual cover if travelling multiple times a year.

  7. Disclose all medical conditions – but use specialist insurers to avoid inflated premiums.




Optional Extras: Are They Worth It?


Some add-ons can offer peace of mind, but they’re not always worth the price — especially on short or simple trips.


Worth considering:


  • Cancellation cover (if your trip is costly or booked far in advance)

  • Baggage cover (if you’re checking in expensive luggage)

  • Excess waiver (removes the cost if you make a claim)


Often unnecessary:



  • Legal expenses – only useful for complex travel disputes

  • Flight delay cover – airlines may already be responsible under UK/EU law


Unique Insight: Leverage Your Bank Account’s Travel Insurance


Many high-street banks offer free or packaged travel insurance with current accounts.

For example:


  • Nationwide FlexPlus – includes worldwide family travel insurance, mobile cover, and UK/EU breakdown for £13/month

  • Barclays Travel Pack – adds annual travel and RAC breakdown cover to your account for around £12.50/month


If you already have one of these accounts, you may already be covered. Just check the policy limits and age restrictions.


Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions


If you have a pre-existing condition, some providers may:


  • Increase your premium

  • Exclude your condition from cover

  • Refuse to insure you


Instead of hiding conditions (which invalidates your policy), use specialist providers such as:


  • Staysure

  • AllClear

  • Avanti

  • Goodtogoinsurance.com


You can also compare using the MoneyHelper medical cover directory: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/insurance/travel-insurance-directory


Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Travel Insurance


  • Not reading the small print – e.g. exclusions for adventure activities

  • Buying too late – you only get cancellation cover from the date the policy starts

  • Not declaring medical conditions – may invalidate a claim

  • Relying on GHIC alone – it doesn’t cover everything

  • Assuming travel insurance is the same everywhere – policies vary drastically


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Can I buy travel insurance after booking my holiday?


Yes, but the sooner the better. To be protected if you need to cancel your trip, buy cover as soon as you book.


Is travel insurance required by law?


No, but it’s strongly recommended — especially for trips outside the UK. Some countries may require proof of insurance for entry.


Does GHIC replace travel insurance?


No. The GHIC covers basic public healthcare in the EU only. It doesn’t include repatriation, private care or non-medical costs.


What’s the best type of travel insurance for families?


Annual multi-trip family policies often provide the best value if you travel more than once a year with kids.


Will my travel insurance cover cancelled flights?


Yes, if you have cancellation cover and the cancellation falls within your policy terms (e.g. illness, death in the family, etc.). Flight delays and cancellations by airlines may fall under different rules (EU261).


Final Thoughts: Smart Protection for Every Pound You Spend


Travel insurance might seem like an added expense, but skipping it can cost far more. The key is to choose a cheap policy that still protects you properly — and that means comparing carefully, reading the fine print, and avoiding cover you don’t need.


With rising travel costs, it’s more important than ever to:


  • Shop around using comparison tools

  • Use cashback sites for extra value

  • Avoid expensive add-ons

  • Choose the right policy for your trip

  • Consider your bank account’s included benefits


A good travel insurance policy doesn’t need to be expensive — just effective. Take a few minutes before your next trip to compare and save.



Disclaimer:  Smart With Money may receive compensation through affiliate links, sponsored content, or advertising featured on this site. This does not influence our editorial standards. All reviews and recommendations are based on independent research, and we aim to provide accurate, objective information to help you make informed financial decisions.


Please note:  All content on SmartWithMoney.co.uk is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified financial adviser before making any financial decisions.

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