When to book travel insurance

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Wondering when to buy travel insurance? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get asked. These top tips explain why prioritising your policy will help you make the most of our benefits and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Designed to have your back, holiday cover offers benefits like cancellation protection before you even leave home. So, while a last-minute approach may be tempting, buying your policy early could save you from unexpected costs in the long run (Ts & Cs apply).

How far in advance can I book travel insurance?

This depends on the type of policy you need. We’ve broken it down into our two key options:

Single-trip insurance

• This is designed to cover one trip at a time, so may be more suitable if you aren't planning more than one or two holidays within the next 12 months
• No upper age limit
• Covers one trip of up to 365 days, starting and ending in the UK
• Protection from the day you buy it (Ts & Cs apply)
• Expires on your chosen return date (as specified on your booking form)
• Can be purchased up to 18 months in advance

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Annual multi-trip insurance

• Enjoy as many trips as you like over 12 months, all covered by a single policy
• Applicable for customers aged 90 or younger
• The total days allowed per trip depend on the level you choose
• Protection from the date you select on the policy booking form
• Renewal is due each year on the anniversary of the original purchase
• Can be booked up to 90 days in advance

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Why should I get cover before I’ve even packed?

Planning a trip abroad is exciting. But if life throws you a curveball, are you prepared? Here’s how booking early could benefit you.

Cancellation cover

Picture this. You’ve booked a trip; it’s non-refundable, and then things unexpectedly go wrong. Seems unlikely? Well, actually, cancellation is one of the most common reasons people claim. Here are some examples of why this could happen (Ts & Cs apply):

• You could get ill before you travel and need to postpone your trip
• You or a travelling companion needs to attend a court of law
• You are made involuntarily redundant
• A child’s adoption proceedings are unexpectedly scheduled during a trip
• You may discover that you’re pregnant and are advised not to travel
• Your pet may need urgent attention from a vet due to illness or injury
• Your passport or visa is stolen within seven days of your departure date

Tailor-made insurance

Booking your travel insurance early will give you time to add on any extras before you leave. This could include things like winter sports cover, extra gadget cover or even last-minute wedding cover. Bear in mind that no additions can be made after you start your trip.

If you consider all of the above, it’s easy to see why having the right policy ahead of time could save your bacon. Terms and conditions apply, so read your policy documents for full details.

Four things to remember

1. Read the documents

   Opting for the cheapest deal isn't always the best idea, so make sure you read through your policy documents thoroughly before you confirm your booking. This will help you to understand the terms of your cover in advance.

2. Declare your pre-existing medical history

   If you don't, you won't get the right cover and may not be able to make a claim.

3. Make sure you're travelling to a safe destination

   If you travel to areas that are advised against by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), you will not be able to make any claims.

4. Check the dates

   Bear the following in mind to ensure you'll be covered from the moment you book your holiday to the day you return:

Single-trip policies automatically start from the moment you buy them

For annual multi-trip policies, your cover starts on the date you select when booking. If you choose your departure date, you won’t be covered for cancellations before you travel

Disclaimer: All information supplied on this page is subject to policy terms and conditions, exclusions and limitations. We will not be liable for misinterpretation of said information and advise you to check your policy documents for full details.