Travel insurance | When you have already left the UK

Have you forgotten your travel insurance?

With all the organisation of a family holiday, it is very easy to forget something and, in the excitement of a long-awaited trip, travel insurance may be the last thing on your mind.

But, don't worry, if you have got on the plane, or arrived at your hotel and realised you haven't bought travel insurance cover for your holiday - all is not lost.

Can I buy travel insurance when I have already left the UK?

Yes you can.

Most standard travel insurers will have in their terms and conditions that you need to have purchased your travel insurance before your holiday begins.

The insurers listed on this page are all able to offer cover even if your holiday has started and if you are not in your home country. Cover will usually start 24 hours after you have bought the policy and you will be expected to cover the remainder of your trip until your return home.

How does travel insurance bought after you have started your travels differ from other policies?

These companies can offer standard travel insurance to those who have set off on their travels but there are usually limitations.

These can include:

• Single trip policies only
• No cancellation cover
• Removal of the14 day cooling-off period
• Delay of medical cover for illness
• No cover for pre-existing illness

Cover will vary depending on the insurer, your holiday and your personal circumstances so do compare policies.

Travel once you have already departed can still offer great cover

Many of the most important parts of travel insurance are included in the policies provided by the companies on this page including:

• Emergency Medical expenses
• Cover for baggage and personal possessions
• Sports and Activities
• Wintersports
• Cruises
• Travel Gadgets

This content was last reviewed on 23/10/2024