The best travel insurance isn’t the cheapest or the one with the longest list of benefits. It’s the policy that fits your trip, your health and your budget. Use this 10-point checklist to compare options.
1. Check the destination and region
Make sure your destination is covered. Europe, worldwide excluding the USA and worldwide including the USA are often priced differently. See travel insurance for the USA.
2. Look at the medical limit
Emergency medical cover is the most important section. Choose a higher limit for expensive destinations and long-haul trips.
3. Declare your medical conditions
Answer questions fully and accurately. If you’ve been declined or excluded, see travel insurance with pre-existing conditions.
4. Check the cancellation limit
It should cover the full cost of your prepaid trip. See cancellation cover.
5. Compare the excess
A low premium can come with a high excess. See excess explained.
6. Check baggage and valuables limits
Look at single-item limits if you’re taking a phone, laptop or camera.
7. Check your activities
Winter sports, diving and adventure activities are often excluded or need an add-on.
8. Decide between single trip and annual
Annual cover can be better value if you travel often. See annual vs single trip.
9. Check what you already have
Packaged bank accounts, credit cards and home insurance may include some cover. See bank account travel insurance.
10. Read the documents and check the insurer
Read the IPID and exclusions. Check that the insurer or broker is authorised by the FCA, and look at the 24-hour assistance details. Our exclusions guide shows what to look for.
Compare like for like
When you use a comparison site, keep the destination, dates and excess the same, then compare the benefits side by side. See how much travel insurance costs for price factors.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important part of travel insurance?
For most travellers it’s emergency medical cover and repatriation, followed by cancellation cover. The right limits depend on your destination.
Is the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?
Not always. Cheap policies can have low limits, high excesses or exclusions that don’t suit your trip. Compare like for like.
How do I check an insurer is legitimate?
Search for the firm on the Financial Conduct Authority register and check it is authorised.
Should I buy travel insurance through the airline or travel agent?
It can be convenient, but compare it with other options, because cover and price vary widely.
Related travel insurance guides
- Allianz Travel Insurance UK: What You Need to Know in 2026
- Annual vs Single Trip Travel Insurance: Which Should You Buy?
- Bank Account Travel Insurance: Is It Enough for Your Trip?
- What Does Travel Insurance Cover? A Plain-English UK Guide
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in the UK in 2026?
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.
