How to get travel insurance as you get older

As you get older, the risk of falling ill or suffering a serious injury increases. As a result, insurers tend to push up the cost of travel insurance to cover themselves. Here, we explain all you need to know about getting the right travel insurance policy when you’re over the age of 65.

Does travel cover cost more as you get older?

Yes, you will usually pay more for travel insurance compared to younger travellers. What’s more, the cover you can get maybe more limited.

Many travel insurers charge higher premiums when you get to 65 years old, with some even increasing premiums when you reach your early 30s.

Is there a maximum age limit for travel insurance?

Usually, yes. Most insurers will only offer cover up to a set age, such as 85 for single trips and 80 for annual trip policies. However, some have a much lower age limit, so make sure you check each policy.

That being said, some insurers specialise in cover for older travellers, so they may offer cover with no age limit.

Why is travel insurance more expensive for older travellers?

The cost of your travel insurance policy will be largely based on how likely you are to make a claim, which is why premiums go up as you get older.

From your 60s onwards, you are more likely to fall ill or have an accident that results in a serious injury. This can lead to expensive travel insurance claims, so insurers push up the cost.

Your premium will also increase if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. This is because you are more likely to need medical treatment abroad compared to a healthy person.

Figures from the ABI

How much does travel insurance increase?

The table below shows an example of how a travel insurance policy for a single person going to Europe for seven days can change as they get older:

Quotes are taken from Staysure Basic policy and are based on no medical conditions. Quotes shown are the standard price - online discounts are also available.

Every insurer will offer different quotes, so shop around to compare several providers to find the best deal regardless of your age.

How does travel cover differ?

Some insurers will adjust the level of cover you get based on your age, including:

• Reducing the maximum length of your trip

• Limiting where you can travel to

• Reducing your personal accident benefit

Check the policy documents carefully before you apply to ensure you have the cover you need before you travel.

Find out more about what is covered under your travel insurance policy, including the levels of cover available.

How to keep the cost down

Although travel insurance can cost more as you get older, you can take steps to reduce the price. For example:

• Shop around: If you are over 65 years old, the cost of your travel cover can vary wildly between insurers, so always get a number of quotes. Look for providers that specialise in cover for older people and compare the best deals

• Look at annual policies: If you travel several times a year, it could cost you less to take out an annual policy compared to several single trip policies. Find out if annual multi trip cover is right for you here

• Reduce your cover options: Most travel insurance policies drop the price if you remove some cover levels, like lost or stolen baggage protection

This guide has even more easy ways you can cut the cost of your travel insurance.

8 easy ways to cut the cost of your travel insurance

Should you risk travelling without insurance?

No, it is never a good idea to travel abroad without proper travel insurance in place.

Healthcare in other countries can be very expensive, especially in popular destinations like the USA, so it pays to have insurance in place should the worst happen.

The cost of treatment and emergency travel back to the UK can run into the tens of thousands. For example, if you suffered an infection while on holiday in California and needed hospital treatment and plane tickets home, it could cost up to £100,000.