The best way to get the best cover is to shop around. Comparing quotes and looking into what cover is available can help make sure you get the right policy for your needs.
Follow the steps below to find out what cover you need:
1Correct as of October 2024
Travel insurance isn't a legal requirement for many places. But, certain countries, like Cuba, will require proof of travel insurance before you're allowed to enter the country. It's also a visa requirement for some places, like the Schengen Area. A specialist over 60s travel insurance policy isn't always necessary though, as many travellers over 60 should be able to find cover with standard policies.
It's always best to research your chosen destination before you go to know what the entry requirements are.
A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives you access to state-level healthcare in the EU and Switzerland. This is healthcare that cannot wait until you get back to the UK and is medically necessary.
A GHIC will cover:
But a GHIC won't cover:
A GHIC isn't a replacement for travel insurance. Travel insurance covers a much broader range of situations, and can cover the costs of private treatment and repatriation. Travel insurance also covers lost or damaged items, and missed departure or cancellations of your trip.
Different providers will offer different policies. So, it's important to check what your policy covers with your chosen provider. You should always carefully read any policy documents before you buy to make sure you're getting the right cover.
Most travel insurance policies typically include the following:
If you have more specific needs, a specialist insurance policy might be a better choice. Examples of specialist insurance features can be:
Here's a list of typical exclusions:
Some of the following might not be covered for older travellers:
"Specialist policies aren't always necessary, but can be worth considering if you're someone with medical needs that aren't covered by standard insurance. Getting a specialist policy can give you peace of mind that you'll be covered in an emergency. You'll be able to enjoy your holiday and relax knowing you're covered."
Certain activities might not be covered by standard insurance. There are a variety of travel insurance add-ons you can get that offer cover for these types of activities, normally for an additional cost. It's always worth looking into what add-ons your policy offers, so you can choose the right ones for you.
Insurance policy add-ons will depend on the insurer and some might not be available because of personal circumstances.
The cost depends on your personal circumstances and the insurer you're with. Over 60s travel insurance takes into account your age and any medical conditions you might have. As you get older, insurance costs can get more expensive, especially if you need cover for medical conditions, such as travel insurance for over 80s.
Nearly 95% of adults over 60 have at least one chronic medical condition. That's why it's good to make sure you're covered against unexpected medical costs.
Here's how much travel insurance could cost for some common medical conditions:
| Medical condition | Price |
|---|---|
|
Type 1 diabetes
|
£9.862 |
|
Heart conditions
|
£29.043
|
|
Stroke
|
£24.704
|
|
High blood pressure
|
£10.365
|
2Cheapest price for single-trip travel insurance. Based on 1 adult aged 60 with type 1 diabetes, travelling in Spain for 1 week. Confused.com data, September 2024.
3Cheapest price for single-trip travel insurance. Based on 1 adult aged 60 with coronary heart disease, travelling in Spain for 1 week. Confused.com data, September 2024.
4Cheapest price for single-trip travel insurance. Based on 1 adult aged 60 who has had 1 stroke in the last 6-12 months, travelling in Spain for 1 week. Confused.com data, September 2024.
5Cheapest price for single-trip travel insurance. Based on 1 adult aged 60 with high blood pressure, travelling in Spain for 1 week. Confused.com data, September 2024.
It might cost more for over 60s with medical conditions to get over, and there might be less choice. If you have multiple conditions, or a more serious condition, it can be even harder to find the right cover. If you aren't able to find suitable cover for your needs, the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) has a travel insurance directory set up for customers with serious medical conditions.
It's really important to declare any existing medical conditions you have to your insurer. This includes any treatments and medications you need, as well as anything you're being tested or awaiting treatment for.
Pre-existing medical conditions can include:
The following conditions don't typically need to be declared, but you should check with your provider to be sure:
Most insurers will cover travellers at least up to the age of 75. It's possible to get specialist travel insurance for over 70s. Some insurers, like Outbacker, specialise in providing cover to younger travellers.
Age limits can also depend on whether you choose annual or single-trip insurance. Sadly, annual insurance often as a lower age limit. So, if you're aged 75 or over, single-trip cover might be the best way to go.
Not all providers have an age limit though, and some specialise in cover for older travellers. It's best to look around and compare quotes with us to find a policy that works for you.
Different insurers will have different policy restrictions. Some policies will cover shorter periods of time as travellers get older.
It will also depend on whether you have a single-trip policy, a multi-trip policy or a long-stay policy.
If you're planning to go away for a longer period of time, you might be better off with long-stay insurance. These generally offer longer-term cover and more flexibility if you want to extend your stay. There might still be limits to long-stay policies for older travellers, so it's important to check your policy documents to make sure you're covered.
Learn about how cancellation cover can help you if you run into a problem before you go on holiday.
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We take a look at what ATOL protection means and what it covers.
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Is the perfect policy for those who plan to travel for an extended period.
Page last reviewed: 16 September 2024
Reviewed by: Alvaro Iturmendi
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