Travel insurance in the UK covers three core risks: medical expenses abroad, cancellation costs, and lost or delayed baggage. According to Kaeltripton analysis of 40+ UK travel insurance policies, the most significant gaps in standard policies are pre-existing medical conditions, adventure sports, and gadget cover above GBP500.
What Standard UK Travel Insurance Covers
Most UK travel insurance policies include the following as standard:
- Emergency medical treatment and repatriation
- Cancellation and curtailment up to GBP5,000
- Baggage and personal belongings up to GBP2,000
- Personal liability up to GBP2 million
- Missed departure cover
What Is Typically Excluded
Standard exclusions that catch UK travellers out:
- Pre-existing medical conditions not declared at purchase
- Travel to countries on the FCDO advisory list
- Sports and activities above a standard risk threshold
- Business equipment and high-value electronics above stated limits
- Pandemic-related cancellations unless specifically included
Single Trip vs Annual Multi-Trip
Annual multi-trip policies become cost-effective for anyone taking more than two holidays per year. Kaeltripton analysis finds the average annual multi-trip premium for a UK adult aged 30-40 covering Europe sits between GBP45 and GBP85 depending on insurer and declared medical history.
FCA Regulation and Complaints
All UK travel insurers must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Complaints are handled by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). In 2024-25, the FOS upheld approximately 37% of travel insurance complaints in favour of the consumer, primarily around cancellation claim rejections.
Key Questions to Ask Before Buying
- Are pre-existing medical conditions covered and at what premium loading?
- What is the single item limit for baggage claims?
- Does the policy cover FCDO advisory changes after booking?
- What is the excess per claim and can it be waived?
- Is gadget cover included or a paid add-on?
Full policy comparison and methodology at kaeltripton.com/best-travel-insurance-uk. Primary sources: FCA, Financial Ombudsman Service, ABI.
