Cancellation cover can reimburse prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you have to cancel for an accepted reason. It’s one of the most valuable sections of a policy, but also one of the most misunderstood.
What does cancellation cover pay for?
It typically pays non-refundable costs such as flights, accommodation, tours and tickets you’ve paid for, up to the policy limit. It doesn’t pay for things you can get refunded elsewhere, and you’ll pay the excess on a claim.
Reasons that are commonly accepted
- Serious illness, injury or death of you, a travelling companion or a close relative
- Being called for jury service or as a court witness
- Redundancy, subject to the policy’s conditions
- Serious damage to your home that needs you there
- Being required to work as a member of the emergency services or armed forces, in some policies
The exact list differs between policies, so check the wording.
What isn’t usually covered
- Changing your mind or not wanting to travel
- Fear of flying or general worries about travelling
- Money problems that aren’t covered, such as redundancy conditions not being met
- Medical conditions you didn’t declare or that were known before you bought the policy. See pre-existing conditions.
- Events you knew about when you bought cover
Some policies offer cancel-for-any-reason cover as an upgrade, but it’s rare and usually limited.
When does cancellation cover start?
Usually when you buy the policy, which is why it’s best to buy when you book. See when to buy travel insurance.
How to claim if you have to cancel
- Tell your travel provider and your insurer as soon as you know you can’t travel. Delays can increase the amount you lose.
- Get a medical certificate or other evidence of the reason.
- Check whether you can get a refund of any costs, such as taxes on flights.
- Submit your claim with booking confirmations, receipts and proof of cost.
See the full process in how to make a travel insurance claim.
Cancellation vs curtailment
Cancellation applies before you leave, and curtailment applies if you have to cut your trip short once you’re away. See curtailment cover explained.
Frequently asked questions
Does travel insurance cover cancellation if I’m ill?
Usually yes, if the illness is an accepted reason and not excluded, and you have medical evidence. Check the wording and any medical condition requirements.
Can I cancel for any reason?
Not on standard policies. Cancel-for-any-reason cover is rare and usually an upgrade with limits.
What if a relative becomes ill?
Many policies cover cancellation due to serious illness of a close relative, but definitions of ‘close relative’ vary, so check the policy.
Do I need to tell the insurer straight away?
Yes. Tell both your insurer and your travel provider as soon as you know you need to cancel, to limit costs.
Related travel insurance guides
- What Is Curtailment Cover on Travel Insurance?
- What Does Travel Insurance Cover? A Plain-English UK Guide
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in the UK in 2026?
- How to Make a Travel Insurance Claim: Step-by-Step
- Why Was My Travel Insurance Claim Rejected? Common Reasons
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Always read the policy documents before you buy.
