In 2025, a travel insurance plan for UK travellers is very crucial. Travel insurance provides assurance that you can take the next flight home in the event of a serious injury abroad, whether in Europe, the USA, or on a remote island.
It will cover you against some unforeseen costs such as trip cancellation cover, emergency medical cover and even against your loss of baggage. Many travellers are also wondering, Do I need travel insurance to visit the UK? as the regulations have changed after Brexit and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The answer is yes, especially if you’re a UK citizen travelling abroad. This guide will help you compare and purchase travel insurance, highlighting what matters most in 2025 and how to select the best travel insurance companies.
Why UK Travellers Need Travel Insurance in 2025
The world has changed a lot. Since Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, the risks of travel have grown. UK travellers now need to think twice before flying abroad without protection. Travel disruption coverage is not just useful—it’s essential. Airlines cancel flights more often, and health risks are still present. Plus, UK citizens no longer get the same free healthcare in the EU.
You may wonder, Do I need travel insurance with GHIC or EHIC? The answer is yes. GHIC offers limited health benefits in the EU. But it doesn’t help with things like medical evacuation insurance or private hospital care. That’s why a full insurance plan is needed.
Importance of Travel Insurance Post-Brexit and Post-Pandemic
Before Brexit, EHIC gave you access to EU hospitals. That has changed. GHIC is the replacement, but it has gaps. You still need emergency medical coverage, especially in countries like Spain or France, where private care can be expensive.
Plus, outside the EU, GHIC won’t help at all.
After the pandemic, many countries now require proof of insurance at the border. Some even ask for cancellation for any reason (CFAR). If you get sick while travelling or if your flight is cancelled due to sudden lockdowns, insurance will save you thousands. That’s why. What does travel insurance cover? It is a critical question in 2025.
standard UK Travellers Risk (medical costs, cancellation, lost luggage, etc.)
Imagine needing an emergency operation in the USA. Without emergency medical coverage, you could owe over $100,000. That’s not a risk worth taking. Even simple things, like a broken arm, cost far more abroad than at home.
Flight cancellations and delays are also more common now. That’s where trip cancellation coverage and missed connection insurance come in. Airlines don’t always refund you, especially on non-refundable tickets. And if your bags are lost, you’ll need baggage loss coverage to replace essentials.
What Does a Good Travel Insurance Plan Cover?
A good plan should cover hospital visits, ambulance fees, surgery, and more. Some even include the hospital of choice in travel insurance, so you’re not stuck with the nearest clinic. It’s crucial to get medical evacuation insurance if travelling to remote areas.
You’ll also want protection for trip cancellation coverage, travel disruption coverage, and lost baggage. Choose a policy that includes pre-existing medical conditions insurance and COVID-19 cover. These are common reasons for rejected claims, so make sure they’re clearly stated.
The Best Travel Insurance Companies for UK Travellers in 2025
Travelex, Trawick, and Generali are some of the top travel insurance companies of 2025. These names often come up in expert reviews. They offer solid coverage for a good price. Generali, for instance, is great for baggage loss coverage, while Trawick is strong for travel insurance for Europe.
What sets them apart is how they tailor their plans. For example, Travelex offers plans designed specifically for UK travellers going to the USA. Some companies are known as specialist travel insurers, offering coverage that others don’t, like travel insurance, pregnancy coverage or high-risk traveller insurance.
| Provider | Strengths |
| Travelex | Good for families, solid medical coverage |
| Trawick | Great for seniors, generous baggage limits |
| Generali | Strong trip delay and cancellation coverage |
Best Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors Over 65
If you’re over 65, finding good insurance gets tricky. Many providers charge more or refuse coverage. That’s why over-65s travel insurance is a special category. As you age, the risk of needing care abroad rises. So, does age affect travel insurance? Yes—and it changes what you pay and what’s available.
Still, some of the best insurers for seniors have no age limit. They offer insurance without age limits, or at least higher thresholds. If you’re looking for insurance for older travellers, make sure it includes pre-existing medical conditions insurance and doesn’t punish you for your age.
Comparing Annual, Single-Trip & Specialist Policies
Planning more than one holiday this year? Then, an annual travel insurance policy could save you money. But if it’s a one-off trip, go with single-trip insurance. This is usually cheaper and easier to set up quickly.
Going on a cruise or skiing? You’ll need cruise travel insurance or a winter sports add-on. Travelling for business? Get a business rider. There’s even insurance for backpackers and student travel insurance with special terms. The trick is to orient the plan to your way of travelling.
What Is Travel Insurance in 2025?
What then will be the travelling medical insurance cost in this year? The cost is quite different. Age, destination, length of stay, and health conditions all matter. This is what experts mean by what affects travel insurance costs. If you’re 25 and healthy, a week in Europe might cost under £15. But if you’re 75 and going to the USA, you could pay £100+.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Destination | Type | Age | Average Cost |
| Spain | Single trip | 30 | £12 |
| USA | Annual | 50 | £65 |
| Thailand | Single trip | 70 | £80 |
These are the ways you can reduce your premium: comparing quotes, raising the excess, and dropping extras that you do not need. A good deal can be found with the use of travel insurance quote comparison tools. How to Choose the Right Policy for Your Trip
Start by asking: What do you need covered? Use a checklist. If you’re worried about losing money on bookings, you’ll want trip cancellation coverage. If you’re travelling with valuables, focus on baggage loss coverage. And don’t forget to cancel for any reason insurance (CFAR) if your plans are uncertain.
Understanding policy wording is key. Read the small print. Learn what the travel insurance does not cover. It may exclude some things, such as extreme sports or some drugs. Never fail to look at your coverage’s limits and exclusions.
Where and How to Buy Travel Insurance in the UK
A lot of users go through comparison websites. They are superb personalities when having to ask for a quote quickly and compare and buy travel insurance all in one place. Other offers can only be bought directly. Others employ the assistance of brokers or opt for a specialist travel insurer when the needs are complex.
Immediately after booking the trip is the optimum time to purchase it. In this manner, you are covered initially. Delaying may lead to you losing trip cancellation cover in the event of an emergency that happens before takeoff.
Questions and Answers
Should I have UK travel insurance?
It is not necessary unless you are staying inside the UK. Except when travelling outside the country, though, it is necessary.
When abroad, am I allowed to purchase travel insurance?
It is more costly; some specialist providers do so.
Am I allowed to take travel insurance when I am pregnant?
Yes, insurance policies cover pregnancy in case you are travelling, and this occurs in most policies. Enquire about how far into pregnancy they will cover.
Is it possible to have travel insurance after turning 80 years old?
Travel insurance can be available to seniors above 80 years old, but it will be more expensive, as there are very few insurers that provide such a service.
Why will you need travel insurance when you are GHIC holders?
GHIC does not provide a system of delay, cancellations, or a system of privatised healthcare. Yes, you still need to have full coverage.
