Travel Insurance

Travel insurance provides financial protection against specified risks before and during a trip. Policies commonly include emergency medical expenses abroad, cancellation or curtailment, lost or delayed baggage and personal liability. The scope of cover depends on the policy selected and the destination travelled to. Limits, exclusions and excesses apply according to the insurer’s terms.

Single trip travel insurance covers one defined journey with specific start and end dates. Annual multi trip insurance provides cover for multiple trips within a 12 month period, usually subject to a maximum trip duration per journey. The appropriate option depends on travel frequency and planned destinations. Terms vary between insurers.

Pre existing medical conditions must be declared when arranging travel insurance. Insurers assess disclosed conditions individually and may apply additional premium, exclusions or specific terms. Failure to declare relevant medical history could affect a claim. Acceptance depends on underwriting criteria and the nature of the condition disclosed.

Travel within Europe can still involve medical and financial risk. While a GHIC card may provide access to state healthcare in certain countries, it does not cover repatriation, cancellation or baggage loss. Travel insurance is arranged to address those additional risks, subject to policy limits and exclusions.

Travel insurance is commonly arranged at the time of booking a holiday. Doing so ensures cancellation cover applies if an insured event occurs before departure. Waiting until shortly before travel may limit cancellation protection. The policy start date determines when certain sections of cover become active.

Most policies include cancellation cover for specified circumstances such as serious illness affecting the insured person or close family members. The event must fall within the policy wording and may require medical evidence. Not all reasons for cancellation are covered, so terms should be reviewed carefully.

Travel insurance typically includes cover for lost, stolen or damaged baggage, subject to defined limits and excesses. Individual item limits often apply and high value possessions may need to be specified separately. Claims may require proof of ownership or purchase documentation.

Cover for activities depends on the type of sport and the policy selected. Standard policies may include low risk leisure activities but exclude higher risk pursuits such as winter sports or scuba diving unless additional cover is arranged. Activities should be declared if there is uncertainty regarding eligibility.

Some travel insurance policies apply age restrictions, particularly for annual multi trip cover. Other products are available for older travellers, subject to medical screening and underwriting review. Eligibility and pricing depend on age, destination and declared medical history.

Travel insurance through Performance Direct may be relevant for UK residents planning holidays abroad or within the UK who wish to manage medical, cancellation and baggage risks. This includes individuals travelling occasionally or multiple times per year. Policies are arranged based on destination, duration and declared medical history, subject to insurer criteria.