Martin Lewis Recommends Travel Insurance: Celebrity-Backed Guide to Affordable Travel Insurance in the UK
Travel insurance is an essential part of planning any trip, providing peace of mind against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. In the UK, the travel insurance market offers a variety of options tailored to different traveler needs, budgets, and age groups.
Martin Lewis has repeatedly emphasized the importance of buying travel insurance as soon as you book your trip — not waiting until the last moment before departure.
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Unexpected events on a trip can lead to significant expenses. Flight cancellations, lost luggage, or sudden illness abroad can cause costly disruptions. Especially when traveling outside Europe, a single emergency hospital visit can cost thousands of pounds.
"ASAB" (As Soon As Booked) principle, meaning the earlier you buy your insurance after booking your travel, the better your chance of coverage for unforeseen issues such as illness forcing you to cancel
Practical Tips Before You Buy
✔ Buy Early: Purchasing insurance on the day you book your travel protects you against last-minute cancellations due to illness or emergencies.
✔ Check Policy Details: Ensure the policy covers your destination country and any extra activities you plan to do, like winter sports or cruises.
✔ Look Beyond Medical Cover: Quality travel insurance should also include personal liability, lost documents, and emergency assistance.
Top Affordable Travel Insurance Brands in the UK
Choosing a travel insurance brand involves more than just comparing prices. Coverage scope, claim handling efficiency, customer service, and coverage of pre-existing medical conditions are equally important. Here are five reputable and budget-friendly UK brands suitable for different traveler profiles:
| Brand | Trustpilot Score | Suitable For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverwise | 4.7 / 5.0 | Young adults, single-trip travelers | High medical coverage up to £10 million, flexible add-ons including winter sports coverage, great value. |
| Good to Go Insurance | 4.7 / 5.0 | Over 60s, travelers with medical history | Covers 1,300+ pre-existing conditions, no age limit, specialized phone support, strong on chronic illness coverage. |
| Admiral Travel Insurance | 4.5 / 5.0 | Families, frequent travelers | Annual multi-trip plans, comprehensive coverage, options for add-ons like rental car insurance, good for families. |
| Holiday Extras | 4.4 / 5.0 | Flexible travelers | Excellent for last-minute changes and cancellations, fast claims, ideal for multi-leg journeys or package holidays. |
| AA Travel Insurance | 4.3 / 5.0 | Brand-conscious, year-round travelers | Trusted brand, strong emergency support, 24/7 assistance, offers bundle discounts with other AA products. |
Age-Specific Travel Insurance Recommendations
Different age groups have distinct travel insurance needs. Here’s a simple guide to choosing the right coverage depending on your stage of life:
18-35 Years: Young Adults & Single-Trip Travelers
For young and budget-conscious travelers who mainly take short trips, focus on affordable plans that cover essential risks such as emergency medical, lost luggage, flight delays, and cancellations. Many insurers offer flexible policies that include optional sports cover for activities like skiing.
Recommended Brand: Coverwise — offers comprehensive coverage at affordable prices with multiple plan levels to suit various needs.
36-59 Years: Families & Frequent Travelers
This group often travels with family or takes multiple trips per year, whether for holidays or business. Annual multi-trip plans offer convenience and cost savings by covering all trips within a year under one policy. Look for policies with added protection like rental car insurance and extended baggage coverage.
Recommended Brand: Admiral — well known for family-friendly policies and multi-trip plans, with good discounts for bundled products.
60+ Years: Seniors & Those With Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Older travelers or those with existing health issues require insurance that covers medical conditions without age restrictions. It’s crucial to declare any chronic illnesses and ensure the insurer supports comprehensive medical cover.
Recommended Brand: Good to Go Insurance — specifically designed for seniors and those with medical histories, offers wide coverage for pre-existing conditions, and provides expert support.
Final Tips for Buying Travel Insurance in the UK
- Always read the policy wording carefully, especially the sections on medical cover and exclusions related to pre-existing conditions.
- Compare quotes from trusted comparison sites like MoneySuperMarket or Compare the Market to find policies that fit your budget and needs.
- Avoid relying solely on credit card insurance unless you confirm it covers all necessary risks.
- If you have health issues, choose insurers known for accommodating medical declarations and providing dedicated support.
By understanding your travel needs and choosing a reliable insurer with the right coverage, you can enjoy your trip knowing you are financially protected against unexpected events. Safe travels!