Over-50s travel insurance

The over 50s are today’s big travellers – healthy, adventurous and with more free time (and disposable income) than the younger generation. So, if you’re over 50 and the world is your oyster, here’s how to compare quotes and find a policy that suits you.

Written by

Kate Hughes

Last Updated

1 JULY 2022

6 min read

What is over-50s travel insurance?

Over-50s travel insurance is simply that – travel insurance created to cater to the needs and opportunities of people over 50.

Every policy is different, so when you compare over-50s travel insurance quotes, check the details so you know exactly what’s included.

Customers with pre-existing medical conditions

If you have a serious health condition, your travel insurance is likely to be more expensive. Whatever happens, don’t lie to an insurance provider, because this could mean any claim you make is rejected. When you declare any medical conditions on our website, we’ll only show you quotes from insurance providers who will cover them, with no exclusions.

If your condition is more serious, MoneyHelper has a directory of insurance providers who may be able to provide quotes over the phone. You can call them on 0800 138 7777.

What does travel insurance for over-50s cover?

Travel insurance should cover you for:

Emergency medical treatment and repatriation to the UK – if you’re injured or become ill. When you buy your policy, make sure you have enough cover. You’d be surprised at how much medical treatment can cost while abroad, so don’t leave yourself short just to save a few quid on your premium.
Holiday cancellations – if you need to call off or cut short your trip because of circumstances covered by the policy.
Baggage – in case your bags are lost or stolen while you’re away.
Delays – if your flight or ferry is delayed and you miss your connection, your travel insurance could make sure you’re not out of pocket.
Coronavirus cover – it’s worth finding travel insurance that covers you against cancellation and disruption due to COVID-19. All the policies we’ll show you offer some COVID-19 cover – to see exactly what’s included, just click the ‘more details’ button on the quote.

Meanwhile, you may find that your over-50s travel insurance includes added benefits – in particular, cover for a range of pre-existing medical conditions, which might not be offered with standard travel insurance.

Always read the terms and conditions before taking out cover, so you know for sure what’s included and what’s not.

Where can I go with over-50s travel insurance?

Travellers of any age should buy travel insurance specific to the countries and regions they plan to visit.

For example, if you’re having a staycation, you may just want UK cover. If you’re going abroad, you’ll want either Europe travel insurance or worldwide cover. As a general rule though, the further you go, the more you can expect to pay.

Some popular destinations outside Europe, such as Turkey, Morocco and Egypt are sometimes included on European travel insurance policies. This is good news as it could save you money, but check with your insurance provider to be sure.

What doesn’t over-50s travel insurance cover?

As with any insurance, some eventualities won’t be included in your cover. For example:

Undeclared medical conditions – always be honest when applying for insurance. It might mean paying a bit more for your policy, but if you withhold information, you risk having your claim rejected and being liable for any medical bills.
Activities not listed in the policy wording – if you’re taking part in adventurous sports during your trip, tell your insurance provider and make sure they’re listed in the policy wording. If they’re not, get extra cover or you won’t be covered if you’re injured.
Claims arising from reckless behaviour or deliberate negligence – for example, if you leave your bags unattended, your insurance won’t cover you if they’re stolen.
Being under the influence – if you injure yourself after a few too many drinks or take drugs, your insurance provider probably won’t accept your claim.

What optional extras come with over-50s travel insurance?

On the plus side, though, here are some useful extras you could add to your over-50s travel insurance for a few more pounds:

Cruise cover – can insure you for medical emergencies, such as the ship having to port unexpectedly or missing a scheduled port stop. You could add it as an extra when you get a quote with us.
Golf cover – is geared towards covering your clubs and other gear against loss, damage or theft. Some might even reimburse you for lost course fees under certain circumstances beyond your control.
Gadget cover – one to think about if you’re taking an expensive phone, camera or laptop with you. Standard travel insurance policies might not include enough cover for your most expensive tech, so be sure to get the extra cover you need.

Over-50s travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions

It’s more than possible to get over-50s travel insurance if you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as:

High blood pressure
Heart disease
Cancer
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Respiratory problems, including asthma
Joint and bone inflammation
Depression.

However, you must declare any pre-existing conditions – even if it increases your premium.

Find out more about pre-existing medical conditions.

What type of over-50s travel insurance do you need?

Travellers of any age should try to match their cover to their individual plans to make sure they’re properly insured without forking out more than is necessary in premiums. Here are a few options to consider:

Single trip travel insurance if you just have one holiday planned.
Annual multi-trip travel insurance if you’re going away several times over the next 12 months.
Group travel insurance if you’re travelling with friends.
Couples travel insurance if you’re travelling with your partner who lives at the same address.

How much does travel insurance for over-50s cost?

Travel insurance for over-50s can be more expensive than standard travel insurance. This is because older travellers are more likely to have pre-existing medical conditions and likelier to travel to destinations where medical treatment is expensive.

Insurance providers will also take the length of your trip and the activities you want to do into account when working out the cost of your travel insurance. Taking part in adventure sports or high-risk activities usually means you’ll pay more. So, double check the details of your policy if you have an action-packed trip in mind.

What else do I need to consider with over-50s travel insurance?

Older doesn’t always mean wiser. Well, over a third of people over 55 who take ski holidays admit they never check they’re covered for winter sports, according to ABTA, which probably means they’re not as it rarely comes as standard.

A quick insurance to-do list

Buy your insurance early, so you’re covered if you need to cancel before you set off.

Check your policy details
Find your EHIC or apply for its replacement GHIC card, if your EHIC has now expired and you’re traveling in EU countries and Switzerland
Take a note of your policy number and claim helpline.

Compare over-50s travel insurance quotes

At Compare the Market we compare over-50s travel insurance quotes from a wide range of insurance providers. We show you great value deals and make it easy to choose the cover that’s right for you.

Compare over 50s travel insurance quotes now