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Travel Insurance for the USA 

Experience the American Dream with a holiday to the USA

From theme parks to National Parks, the USA is a destination that can suit almost every pace of holiday. You can experience the thrill of Las Vegas, witness the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon or take a city tour of New York and snap photos with the Statue of Liberty.

You can also take in the iconic sights of Washington DC and brush shoulders with the president, or see some of America’s history in the Deep South. You can also enjoy an adventure in Texas, where you can get a real sense of the Wild West.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that road trips across America are so popular. The Pacific Coast Highway takes in the very best of San Francisco and Los Angeles, while the Overseas Highway shows you some of America’s best scenery on the way to Miami. Road trips don’t get more iconic than Route 66 though. It takes you all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles and you’re close to Santa Fe, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas if you’d like to take a few detours.

Don’t forget about the food, too. America’s culinary history is so great that the country’s towns, cities and states have a number of delicacies named after them, such as the Philly cheesesteak, Buffalo wings, New York cheesecake, California rolls, baked Alaska and even Mississippi mud pie. No matter what you’re craving, there’s a food for you in America.  

Whatever you plan on doing in the USA, it’s important that you get travel insurance for the USA to help protect yourself against unforeseen eventualities.

Below is some more information about our insurance products, for which Terms and Conditions apply. Please visit the policy information hub for full details.

Healthcare for visitors to the USA

If you need any medical attention as a tourist in America, it can be incredibly expensive.  An EHIC or GHIC card will not cover you in America because this is a reciprocal agreement the UK has only with other European countries.

In America, many residents have their own private medical insurance that covers them if they fall ill or get injured. For this reason, if you don’t have travel insurance for the USA, it can be very expensive for you to receive treatment, so even a minor fall or illness could end up costing you a significant sum of money if you’re not covered by USA travel insurance.  

What does Allianz Assistance travel insurance for the USA cover? 

• Cancelling or curtailing your trip
• Emergency medical and associated expenses
• Loss of passport*
• Delayed personal possessions
• Lost, stolen or damaged personal possessions*
• Loss of personal money*
• Personal accident cover
• Missed departures
• Delayed departures
• Personal liability
• Legal expenses
• End-supplier failure**
• *Not available with Bronze level cover
• **Only available with Gold level cover
• Terms and Conditions apply.  

Plus, you can also purchase add-ons to ensure you have cover for any activities you’re taking part in. For example, if you’re hitting the slopes in the Rockies, our Ski and Winter Sports insurance could help protect you against avalanche closures and unused ski-pack costs.

Please note for Annual policies, if you’re travelling to America, you’ll need to select ‘Worldwide (including USA and Canada)’ as your area of cover.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although America’s healthcare is some of the most sophisticated in the world, it’s also one of the world’s most expensive healthcare systems. This makes travel insurance for the USA essential because, without it, you are unlikely to receive treatment and, even if you do, it may cost you tens of thousands of pounds.

Plus, even when heading somewhere relatively safe like the USA, you’ll still encounter other risks while you travel. For example, you’ll need to be vigilant against theft, pickpocketing, burglary and other street crimes in big cities. Thankfully, if you lose your possessions or you’re the victim of a theft, your USA travel insurance could protect you.

In addition, your travel insurance can also protect you for a number of other things that could go wrong while you’re away, including lost luggage, cancellations and travel delays. 

If your stateside visit is the only trip you're planning to take this year, our  Single Trip  travel insurance for the USA will probably suit you best. If you're managing to get away more than once, then our Annual cover could work out to be a cheaper option.

Depending on how many countries you travel to, and whether you choose to buy any additional cover, costs for Backpacker insurance to the USA can vary. Get a quote online to find out how much it could cost to cover your stateside trip.

The exact price you’ll pay for your travel insurance for the USA will vary depending on:

• The type of policy you choose
• Your level of cover
• The duration of your trip
• Whether you need any pre-existing conditions to be covered
• Whether you require an add-on such as Ski and Winter Sports insurance

The price of your policy will also depend on how many people are travelling. For example, if you’re taking the family to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, then you can place everyone on the same policy with our Family Travel Insurance for the USA. This is often a more cost-effective solution than buying multiple Single Trip policies for everyone. 

Due to the improvements we are currently making to the booking engine of our website, we are currently unable to offer travel insurance to cover people’s pre-existing medical conditions. However, this is only a temporary measure and we plan to reintroduce this offer not only under our Single Trip or Backpacker policies, but also extending it to our Annual policies. Our Single Trip travel insurance policies for the USA can provide you with cover for up to 180 days, while our Backpacker cover can last for up to a full year, depending on how long you’re travelling for.

Once the website improvements have been made, it will be easy to declare your pre-existing medical conditions with our medical screening process. Simply click ‘Get a Quote’ and select your policy type. Then, provide us with some basic information about you and the trip you’re planning.

You’ll then be asked to declare your pre-existing medical conditions. All you need to do is type the first three letters of the condition into the box and then select your condition from the dropdown menu. Once you’ve declared all of your conditions, press ‘Finish’.

It won’t be long before we’ll be able to provide you with a quote again for travel insurance, to see if we’re able to cover you. You can read our policy documents online to see the full cover and exclusions. If there is anything you don’t fully understand, please get in touch. 

America is home to some of the best winter sports resorts in the world. You can go skiing in the Rocky Mountains, snowboard in Lake Tahoe or even go sledging down the slopes of Alaska.

If you’re planning on trying any of these activities during your American holiday, then additional cover will be required. From lost ski equipment and piste closures to mountain rescues and repatriation, our Winter Sports and Ski  add-on is designed to give you peace of mind and protect you if things don’t go to plan. 

Cover options for your trip to the USA

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Single Trip Travel Insurance

Backpacker Travel Insurance

Family Travel Insurance

Winter Sports & Ski Travel Insurance

Feel supported during your stateside visit, with travel insurance from allianz assistance.

Travel Insurance for Seniors

Travel Insurance for Medical Conditions

Need help? Call us on: 0371 200 0428

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Best Travel Insurance for Visiting the U.S.

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Table of Contents

Travel insurance basics

Best visitors insurance policies, for the lowest price: trawick international, for customizing options: worldtrips, for pre-existing conditions: worldtrips, for highest medical coverage limit: img, other options to consider, the bottom line.

Since health care can be expensive in the U.S., it’s important that visitors have insurance coverage, aka visitors insurance or travel medical insurance, in case something happens that requires medical attention mid-trip.

Whether you have coverage for travel in the U.S. depends on your health care plan in your home country. But if you don't, you'll need to buy a policy from a third-party insurance provider. Several companies sell this kind of visitor insurance, and each company and policy is a bit different. Let’s look at which is best for you.

First, a few basics about visitor insurance. Two kinds are available: travel medical insurance and trip insurance.

Travel medical insurance covers medical expenses that you may incur while traveling internationally, like a visit to the doctor, a trip to the hospital and medical evacuation and repatriation.

Trip insurance usually covers limited medical expenses like emergency care and can compensate you if your trip is delayed, you need to leave the trip early or you have to cancel the trip. It is designed to help you protect the investment you’re making as you prepare to travel.

Standard trip insurance might not cover a visit to the doctor unless it is an emergency.

It’s important to make sure any pre-existing conditions are covered if the visitor has any. Some policies exclude them.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

With so many kinds of visitors insurance policies, which is the best?

To make comparisons, we got quotes from several companies using Squaremouth , a website to search for different types of travel insurance in one place.

The parameters we set are for a 49-year-old citizen and resident of Spain traveling to the U.S. on May 1-31, 2024.

The quotes don't include cancellation coverage; these examples are for medical coverage only. To get a quote, the hypothetical deposit for the trip was paid on Feb. 15.

Since we’re looking for a policy that will cover medical care for visitors, there are several medical filters to select: emergency medical ($100,000 or more), medical evacuation ($100,000 or more) and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

The search came up with nine results ranging in price from $74.40 to $179.18.

The policy with the lowest cost was the Trawick International 's Safe Travels USA Cost Saver at $74.40.

Trawick policies use the FirstHealth PPO network.

The policy as quoted has a $250 deductible and includes $100,000 in emergency medical, $2 million in medical evacuation and $5,000 in interruption coverage. It has limited coverage for pre-existing conditions.

It is possible to change the deductible to as little as $0 or raise it to $5,000.

The same company has another policy, the Trawick International Safe Travels USA Comprehensive policy, that is better at covering pre-existing conditions and costs a little more — $89.59.

The general coverage is the same as the less expensive policy, and the Safe Travels USA Comprehensive option adds coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition. it is possible to change the deductible amount to $0 or go up to $5,000.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Some policies are sold as is, while others allow some flexibility depending on what is important to you.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy for $179.18 allows a lot of customization.

It was also the most expensive of the nine policies Squaremouth suggested.

It’s possible to customize the emergency medical coverage and pre-existing condition coverage and medical deductible. The policy also includes $15,000 in trip interruption coverage, the highest of any of the nine policies available.

If the traveler has a pre-existing condition, policies from WorldTrips Atlas America are your best bet. The WorldTrips Atlas America policy in our comparison costs $101.06.

The policy as quoted covers $100,000 in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition.

The deductible is also available for customization from $0 to $5,000.

The PPO network for Atlas America Insurance is United Healthcare.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy mentioned above is also good for pre-existing condition coverage.

While eight of the nine policies had $100,000 in secondary medical coverage, one had a limit of $2 million.

The IMG Patriot America Platinum policy has a premium of $172.36 along with a high medical evacuation limit of $2 million and interruption coverage of $10,000.

If $2 million in medical coverage is not enough, it’s possible to increase that amount to an $8 million policy limit.

It’s not possible to change the level of coverage for preexisting conditions from the high $1 million limit in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence.

It is possible to change the deductible from $0 all the way up to $25,000.

Our comparison also included policies from two additional companies, Seven Corners and Global Underwriters .

Seven Corners had two policies come up in the results, the Seven Corners Travel Medical Basic for $98.27 and the Seven Corners Travel Medical Choice policy for $136.71. Both of the Seven Corners policies include coverage for hurricane and weather, and the less expensive policy covers acts of terrorism.

Having insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses for anyone visiting the U.S. can be a smart money move.

An illness or accident could cause financial problems for visitors because of potentially having to pay for full health care costs. When planning your travel, be sure to check your current health insurance to find out if it will cover you in the U.S.

For a monthlong stay in the U.S., the lowest-priced visitors insurance policy was around $75 (Trawick International Safe Travels USA Cost Saver) and the highest was about $180 (WorldTrips Atlas Premium America). That’s about $2.42 or $5.81 a day, depending on the policy.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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• Travel insurance for USA

The famous cliché of America is that it's big. And it is. Across its six time zones are examples of virtually every type of geography on earth, from the baked deserts of Nevada to the mountains of Colorado. There's something for everyone.

Many are attracted to its warm welcomes and iconic metropolises. Whether you’re sampling wine in Napa Valley, beer in Boston or trekking through canyon country, read our guide to medical care, getting around and the importance of travel insurance in the USA.

Medical care for Brits in the USA

America’s healthcare is some of the most sophisticated in the world, however it is also notoriously expensive and privatised. This means that having good medical travel insurance is an imperative. Without it, you are unlikely to receive treatment or, if you do, it could run to tens of thousands of dollars.

You may be asked to pay an amount up-front by a hospital or treatment centre as a gesture of good faith. If this happens, contact your travel insurer to find out whether this is something they will cover. It’s important to make sure you have available funds for healthcare emergencies in addition to your holiday insurance policy to be on the safe side.

The emergency service number in the USA is 911. There are few diseases associated with travel in the USA, however it’s important to follow the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)  advice on health and travel in the USA to make sure you know whether there are risks local to where you’re going and can take all necessary precautions.

Protect what matters when you go with good travel insurance

Travel risks in the usa.

The travel risks associated with the USA are the kind common to visiting any country. Be vigilant against theft, pickpocketing, burglary from home or car and other street crimes. If you are going to be in unfamiliar areas, always travel in groups and try not to walk alone at night in areas where crimes are more prevalent.

It’s unusual for crime to target tourists, particularly when outside of large cities. There are greater concerns about the risks of crime in states that border Mexico due to the illegal drug trade, however this too is unlikely to specifically target tourists.

Regional considerations

The laws of the USA vary by state, and it’s important to understand how they differ depending on where you will be visiting. Some have strict alcohol laws, such as Utah, while others such as California have very strict laws about smoking and littering. Fireworks are legal in some states and illegal in others, so carrying anything that could cause controversy across state borders is very unwise. This can include things you might normally consider safe, such as beer and wine.

The USA is a land of contrast, including culturally. Some areas are very religiously conservative while others are highly liberal and cosmopolitan. Even within states, cultural norms can vary by area. It’s important to research the locality you’re visiting to avoid any faux pas.

Despite that, the USA is famously a cultural melting-pot and you are likely to find people from all walks of life in most areas.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorisation is an automatic visa waiver programme designed for people from participating countries who are visiting the USA for leisure or business for up to 90 days. It needs to be completed online and is often instant, however it can take as long as 72 hours.

Make sure you have allowed time to get your ESTA, as the process can take longer if your application is rejected. In that situation, you will need to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa and this can involve trips to the US Embassy, which is by appointment and may take a long time. It’s always a good idea to apply for your ESTA in plenty of time to allow for this eventuality.

Getting around

It may have been your lifelong dream to rent an open-top car and cruise down Route 66. Indeed, with much of the USA being so spread out, driving is often one of your only transport options. But have a mind to driving laws. These vary by state and may have different requirements. For instance, in some parts of America, having a valid UK driving licence is sufficient to rent a car and drive, however others will require you to have an International Driving Permit . For the sake of safety, it may be a good idea to apply for an IDP if you plan on driving in the USA.

Speed limits are set by state and even local municipality. They can vary significantly between built up areas and motorways, so make sure you know what the maximum (and, in some cases, minimum) speed limits for the areas you’ll be driving in are. You may find that there are different speed limits depending on time of day and weather type. Importantly, it is common for the maximum speed limit to be lower than in the UK, with some areas such as Washington D.C. having a maximum speed of 55mph. Be aware of what the maximum is for the road you’re travelling on.

Remember that your travel insurance may not cover many aspects of car rental, and this will need to be done by having a separate insurance policy. It is likely that this insurance will come as part of your rental agreement, but it is always wise to make sure.

For long distance travel, flying is one of the most common ways of getting around in the USA and is more popular than trains. However, people have reasons besides speed for seeing the USA by rail, and there are some combination tickets (rail and air) available. America’s spellbinding geography can be taken in wonderfully if you take the Amtrak, however it could be more expensive than air travel.

Public transport in cities differs depending on where you are, with some systems more up-to-date than others. Some large cities such as Los Angeles are renowned for having very limited public transport, so research before you go to see whether you need to make arrangements like renting a car.

Other travel considerations

Remember that alcohol in drinks is often (but not always) measured by its weight rather than its percentage volume, which is different to the UK. The alcohol-by-weight is also expressed as a percentage, though – so a beer that reads 3.2% alcohol by weight is in fact slightly over 4% alcohol by volume. Remember that if you're involved in an incident while under the influence of alcohol your travel insurance policy may not cover you.

Is travel insurance compulsory for the USA?

While travel insurance is a compulsory requirement for visiting some countries and territories, the USA is not one of them. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth taking out. Just consider what an unexpected incident while you were there could end up costing you if you weren’t’ covered.

For one thing, the United States is one of the most expensive countries in the world for healthcare. And while it may seem unlikely you’ll need to call on its medical services on your visit, you could be looking at a hefty bill if you do.

With travel insurance in place before you go, it’s one less thing to think about. You’ll have the reassurance not only that any emergency medical expenses and repatriation (transport home) are covered if you need them but also that other protection’s in place too.

Good quality travel insurance should cover trip cancellation and delays in some circumstances, replacement of lost or damaged belongings , and even access to emergency assistance if you need to call on it while you’re exploring Stateside.

How much travel insurance do I need for the USA?

It’s important that your travel insurance for America provides good medical cover, enough to pay for any healthcare treatment you may need if you fall ill or are injured while there. Don’t underestimate how much treatment can cost there. From getting stitches to a ride in an ambulance, it soon mounts up.

The level of cover you choose should be sufficient to reimburse you for the holiday if it’s cancelled for one of the reasons set out in the policy wording. Make sure it will also reimburse you for the cost of lost, damaged or stolen belongings – so work out their value and keep the receipts handy if you have them.

Remember, for some activities or types of holiday you may need additional or specialist cover. For instance, winter sports cover for skiing, snowboarding, etc, sports travel insurance or cruise cover . You may need additional gadget cover for the devices you take on your trip. And you should make sure you have the level of coronavirus cover you need. Some insurers enable you to add more covid-19 cover to your policy.

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Travelling From the UK to the US? Here Are 3 Health Insurances to Know in 2023

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Hopping across the pond to USA is an easy and exciting trip for most Brits, regardless of whether it's for business, to visit friends or family, or to see the famous Times Square, Grand Canyon, or Golden Gate Park And while travelling to the US can be an accessible, it's worth remembering that out-the-pocket healthcare costs are the most expensive in the world, so it's not just a good idea, but essential, to arrive in the country with travel health insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to the US and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats alike.

US Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for the US:

Best Travel Insurances for the US

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for the US? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance from the UK to the US scroll down

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory From the UK to the US?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travel to, or through, the United States of America from the United Kingdom.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to the US or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for the USA from the United Kingdom:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for visitors from the UK travelling to the USA. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to the US, including coverage for emergencies, doctor's visits, and other medical-related expenses. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies, and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for the US:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another good travel insurance provider for the US, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance from the UK with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for young people or digital nomads from the UK because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind in the USA knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travelling

Compare For Yourself

In this post, we explored three travel insurance providers you should consider for your next trip to the US from the UK. That being said, there are many more providers out there, some of which might make even more sense for you depending on your travel needs and preferences. To compare the top providers on the market, run a search on Monto's travel insurance comparison engine below 👇

Find travel insurance for you:

How do they compare.

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to the US? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 14/02/2023

FAQ About Travel Insurance from the UK to the US

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travel to the USA. However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel to the US. For what's usually an affordable cost, taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to visitors worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the insured, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent tourists.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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Resourceful tourist insurance USA information

Find the best travel insurance, how does travel insurance work, how to buy travel insurance, travel insurance glossary, travel insurance for specific groups, compare travel insurance plans, european health insurance card for traveling abroad.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) offers benefits like reduced or free healthcare cost in your resident country as well as abroad. It also offers coverage for pre-existing conditions, maternity and new born care within the residence country. When you are abroad, it is advisable to buy adequate travel insurance. International travel insurance will cover acute onset of pre-existing conditions. The EHIC will sometime help you pay excess amount on the travel insurance claim.

Globehopper Insurance for UK travelers, European and international travelers

Globehopper insurance offered by International Medical Group, Europe (IMG-Europe) is comprehensive travel health insurance that offers coverage for travelers outside their home country. GlobeHopper is a hybrid policy which provides short term private medical insurance and travel insurance cover.

It offers worldwide coverage and is popular among residents and citizens of the UK. It offers coverage in multiple currencies, namely €Euro, £GBP and $USD. It is available for older travelers up to the age of 70, college students, nannies, vacationers, missionaries, immigrants and relatives.

Some of the unique advantages of this GlobeHopper plan are:

• Can be sold to most nationalities, not just UK & EU residents
• Covers all non-elective treatment that is required prior to insureds home as planned date – not just emergency medical treatment.
• Can be purchased after departure subject to moratorium rules
• Extendable up to 2/3 years if original policy is purchased for 30 days or more
• Available in 3 currencies; USD, GBP & Euro
• This plan offers secondary coverage to any other coverage.

International Medical Group(IMG) Europe travel insurance

Globehopper travel medical insurance.

• Short-term travel medical coverage
• Available in $USD, £GBP, and €Euro
• Five differing plan limit maximum options
• Renewable up to 24 months if one month or more are purchased

GlobeHopper Platinum Travel Medical Insurance

• Coverage for individuals and dependents
• Three differing plan limit maximum options
• Renewable up to 36 months if one month is initially purchased

GlobalFusion International Medical Insurance

• Flexible, comprehensive medical cover
• Cover for individuals, families and groups
• Five unique sub-plan designs - Bronze, Silver, Gold, Gold Plus and Platinum
• 24 hour access to information

WorldStudy Insurance for international students

• Flexible medical cover for students, dependents, and student groups.
• Cover for treatment resulting from COVID-19
• Available in £GBP, €EUR, $USD
• Two plan maximum limit options

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Uk travelers medical evacuation insurance.

UK citizens who need insurance coverage for expenses due to international travel medical evacuation and repatriation can buy travel medical evacuation insurance commonly called “Medevac insurance”.

The Atlas Medevac insurance covers emergency medical evacuation emergency medical evacuation for UK citizens traveling outside the United Kingdom.

Uk travel insurance - FAQ's

Do uk tourists need travel insurance.

Often health insurance from a home country will not cover you while you are traveling in a different country. If you are in a country with high medical costs such as the US, Canada, or Japan, you should consider purchasing international travel insurance in case you should need any medical care. The travel insurance for UK tourists will help defray costs and also often has many travel benefits (trip delay, trip interruption, baggage loss) that will also assist a traveler in getting back on track with their trip.

How much travel insurance do UK travelers need?

The maximum health insurance for UK travelers will depend on where you are going. For example, if you are headed to other parts of Europe or the Philippines, $50,000 may be enough for your trip. If you are going to the US or Canada, you may opt for a much higher maximum ($500,0000 or $1 million) if possible due to the higher potential cost of care in those countries.

What is a good time to buy travel insurance?

Purchasing travel insurance cover before the start of a trip is best to get complete coverage before leaving the home country.

Is it worth it to include travel insurance during an international trip? Or what value does travel insurance bring during traveling?

Yes, UK travelers should consider adding travel insurance coverage for safe travel. Travel insurance provides protection in times of any sudden medical illness or injury during a trip. It helps the travelers from a huge financial loss.

What is the necessity of travel medical insurance?

Travel medical insurance comes to the rescue in an event of unexpected illness or injury while traveling away from the home country. It covers medical bills; treatments availed, in case of trip cancellation, trip interrupted etc. UK Travelers can choose the travel insurance cover according to their travel requirements.

Popular travel insurance for UK citizens already abroad

Senior citizens.

UK Senior citizen travel medical insurance for traveling outside their home country....

Read more..

Pre-existing Coverage

Travel health insurance coverage for British travelers with Pre-existing diseases....

Traveling in groups?

Group travel insurance for group of 5 or more UK travelers going overseas on the same schedule....

Which is best health insurance for USA for UK travelers?

The best travel medical insurance for UK travelers to the USA will differ from traveler to traveler based on their unique needs. There is no single short term travel health insurance for UK travelers which will work best for the US. While some UK travelers will look for the cheapest travel health insurance plan, others will look for the most comprehensive travel health insurance.

The price will be higher if you need health insurance for UK visitors to USA with pre-existing conditions. It is recommended to compare different travel health insurance for British travelers plans based on price as well as the different benefits coverage options.

Do UK travelers need a travel insurance to travel to USA?

NHS offers coverage for UK residents in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. When the travelers are visiting the USA, NHS does not offer coverage outside the UK, therefore health insurance for UK visitors to the US is very much required! Health Care is very expensive in the United States and not having travel health insurance for USA can be financially catastrophic.

Having short term medical insurance for UK visitors can be a huge relief which comes in handy during any major unexpected sickness or injury while in the US. International travelers are urged to buy short term health insurance for USA to have a safe sojourn in the US.

Annual Travel Insurance for UK travelers

Annual multi-trip plans are ideal for UK businessmen and regular British travelers. The annual travel insurance for UK travelers are cheaper than single travel insurance and there is no need to buy an insurance plan every time you travel.

The UK annual travel insurance plans provide coverage for a whole year, however there is a limit for each trip which is either 30, 45 or 70 days depending on the plan chosen. Most annual travel insurance require the travelers from UK to have primary health insurance that would cover them in their home country.

Trip insurance vs Travel health coverage vs Global medical insurance

Confused whether to buy trip, travel or global health insurance? Understand the differences!

Travel medical insurance to USA from the UK

Technically, you are not a US permanent resident until you have a green card. Until then you are a "visitor" regardless of how long you have been in the US. Students stay here for years and then get work visas, but without a green card, they continue to be eligible for our visitor plans as long as they can put down a foreign "residence" address.

You can compare the different US travel insurance options at our Compare travel insurance for USA tool.

Based on your needs, we suggest that you take a look at this great comprehensive plan called Safe Travels USA Cost Saver . It is offered by Trawick International and as the name implies is very economical sometimes costing less than even fixed plans! You have very flexible options for maximum and deductibles.

To get all the details of the policy, including the brochure, PPO network, etc, use this link:

I've just taken out a policy with you for a 9-day visit to Canada in December. I have just noticed on the policy that it doesn't actually state Canada on it anywhere.

Can you please confirm that the policy is indeed for Canada.

Thank you for contacting us at American Visitor Insurance for your travel health insurance needs! I can confirm that the policy lists your home country as UK and your destination as Canada.

It is good anywhere outside your home country or the US. If you want this documented, you can download the "Visa Letter" from the client zone (instructions given on the first page of your fulfillment document).

Please let us know if we can help you in any further.

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International travel insurance coverage.

We also offer international travel insurance plans covering pre-existing conditions which many older travelers look for... Click here to read more

Buy Cheap International travel insurance. There are many cheap international insurance plans also known as visitor insurance plans. Click here to read more

Coinsurance & Deductible - How a Plan Works? Click here to read more

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•  Call: (877)-340-7910

7 Best UK Travel Insurance Plans for US Citizens in 2024

Updated on January 10, 2024 by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to UK travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE UK

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

BEST WEBSITE FOR

Comparing Policies

• Compare dozens of the best Brazil travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place
• Easily filter for the features you want and get support from their award-winning customer service team
• Founded in 2013, TravelInsurance.com has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers find affordable insurance coverage

BEST  POLICY FOR

Fast Claims

• Super fast claims via their 100% digital platform with a helpful mobile app
• Faye makes it easy to add-on coverage for vacation rentals, adventure/extreme sports, pet emergencies, and “cancel for any reason” at competitive prices
• Underwritten by Crum & Forster, Faye is known for its exceptional customer support, with 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

BEST POLICY FOR

Travelers Aged 55+

• Pre-existing medical conditions are covered for a reasonable fee and they offer “cancel for any reason” as an add-on
• $2,000 COVID quarantine coverage available w/ Safe Travels Voyager plan
• Founded in 1998 and underwritten by Nationwide and GBG Insurance

Filtering Plans

• This comparison website has the most comprehensive filters especially for Covid-19 which helps you search for the specific benefits you need
• They have “Zero Complaint Guarantee” which promises a fair claims process
• Established in 2003, Squaremouth has consistently been recognized for it’s exceptional customer service

BEST POLICY FROM

An Established Brand

• Well rounded, inexpensive travel insurance plans from an established and top rated global insurance company
• AXA has plans that cover pre-existing conditions and their “Platinum” plan covers “cancel for any reason” with an optional add-on. They also offer helpful 24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services
• Founded in 1959 and underwritten by Nationwide

Family Travel

• Their “Trip Interruption for any Reason” feature allows you to get a 75% reimbursement for any additional expenses if you decide to go home early from your trip
• They have a variety of insurance products to suit any travel needs
• Founded in 1993 and underwritten by Nationwide Insurance

Long-term Travel

• Ideal for digital nomads and long-term travel, available to anyone anywhere
• Scored lower because short-term travel coverage isn’t as robust as competitors
• Founded in 2018 and is underwritten by Lloyds of London

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON?

UK travel insurance FAQs

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Coverage typically extends to events considered unexpected and unforeseen. Most UK travel insurance policies cover a wide range of circumstances, but some do not fall under coverage. An example of this would be changes or cancellations made to your trip due to personal preferences, such as preferring the weather for the following week and delaying your trip or no longer wishing to travel with your original travel companion. That said, the Seven Corners Trip Interruption or Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) will cover these types of situations. 

Standard travel insurance policies also do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, but you will be pleased to know that most providers offer upgrade packages that do. Almost all medically documented conditions are covered, save for pregnancy. Be aware that you will only have 14-21 days after paying your deposit or paying for your trip in full to purchase this upgrade. Check with your travel insurance provider for their specific terms.

Does travel insurance cover adventure sports and extreme activities?

While the UK is known for its rich history and theater scene, it is also fortunate to have a stunning landscape suitable for all sorts of adventure sports and extreme activities. Whether it be surfing in Cornwall, mountain biking in Cumbria, paragliding in East Sussex, or skydiving in Wiltshire, there is a lot of fun to be had for those looking for an adrenaline rush. 

A comparison website such as SquareMouth.com will allow you to filter for travel insurance policies that cover such activities. Just use the “Sports & Activities” option to enter the activities you plan to participate in during your trip to the UK. Once you narrow your choices of plans, I recommend reading the full details of each one before making a purchase.

What to do if you’re in an emergency in the UK?

In the UK, dial 999 for any emergency that requires assistance from one or more of the following: police, fire brigade, ambulance, coast guard, and more. For non-emergency situations such as theft or damaged property or to provide information about a crime, dial 101 instead.

Suppose you or any other insured travel companions experience a medical emergency while in Great Britain, reach out to your insurance provider’s customer support hotline. They can arrange transport or evacuation to a hospital with standards comparable to those of the United States.

Does travel insurance cover cancellation due to Covid or other communicable diseases?

Coverage differs from one provider to the next, but many standard travel insurance policies include trip cancellations if you or your travel companion(s) contract COVID-19 before your trip.

Nevertheless, the COVID-19 pandemic may impact facets of travel that insurance does not necessarily cover. Such things may include negative test requirements, quarantine restrictions, international border closures or someone’s fear of travel. If you feel that any or all of these may alter your travel plans, I encourage you to purchase a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade package since this is the only way to guarantee you will be covered under any circumstance.

Since travel insurance providers are continuously developing new plans to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the pandemic, it is always good to search through policies on a comparison site such as WithFaye.com to see what new offerings are available. I recommend at least $50,000 emergency medical coverage and $100,000 for medical evacuation. If you have already purchased a policy, check in with your provider about whether they have a policy rider that will cover trip cancellations due to infectious diseases. 

Does your credit card give you travel insurance?

Most credit cards claim to offer free “travel protection” for cardholders. You will need to ask your credit card company as to whether they do or not. If so, you can expect that only aspects of the trip you paid for using your credit card will be covered, such as hotels, flights or rental cars. Some companies will offer a different online platform that you can log into to review the terms of your coverage.

Keep in mind: Almost all “travel protection” offered by credit card companies does not include medical or emergency evacuation coverage. Also, the benefits tend to be far less comprehensive in all areas of coverage compared with policies purchased from dedicated travel insurance providers.

Are rental car accidents covered?

Most basic travel insurance plans for the UK or other international destinations do not include car accidents. However, there are optional upgrades that cover rental collisions. Be sure to verify with your provider what the upgrade includes, as many of these optional plans exclude luxury cars, long-term rentals and RVs. Many car rental companies offer separate insurance plans if your travel insurance plan does not extend coverage to your rental car and any potential accidents. You can also inquire with your car insurance company in the US about whether they cover rental car collisions abroad.

Does travel insurance cover an Airbnb or short-term rental that goes wrong?

Coverage for short-term vacation rentals with respect to trip interruptions and cancellations varies from one travel insurance provider to the next. The more comprehensive your plan, the more likely it is included. If it doesn’t, you can purchase an optional  “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) package that will. CFARs typically reimburse 50-75% of your trip’s total cost.

What about canceled flights?

Most standard travel insurance policies cover canceled flights as long as it is for an approved reason, such as an employee strike, inclement weather or your travel provider canceling services for 24 hours or more due to a natural disaster. Flight reimbursements will be made if you need to cancel your flight due to injury, death, or illness of any insured party or one of their family members. Further approved reasons include jury duty, civil unrest or unexpected military deployment. I recommend consulting different travel insurance providers for further information before buying a plan.

Common problems tourists experience in Great Britain and how to steer clear:

While traveling to exotic destinations can leave you fretting about debilitating illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria, the United Kingdom is a relatively easy vacation place. If you get sick, it will most likely be from something run-of-the-mill like food poisoning. Even though your chances of getting food poisoning are no higher than in other major tourist destinations, eating at established restaurants with good reputations will help reduce your risk.

One of the most common types of accidents in the UK amongst American travelers is usually automobile-related. In the US, we are used to driving on the right side of the road, but they drive on the left in Britain. Other accidents may occur while travelers participate in extreme sports or outdoor excursions, which can leave them with broken bones, twisted ankles or deep open wounds.

As with any large metropolitan center in the West, muggings occur in British cities. Also be aware of pickpockets in busy, crowded areas. While most travelers have no problems during their time in the UK, it is still important to exercise caution. I recommend only carrying with you what you need and remaining aware of your surroundings.

Emergency resources for the United Kingdom 

Phone numbers.

Dial 999 for emergency services, and call 101 for non-emergencies. Both are free calls from any phone within the country. 

US embassy or consulate details

The US has an embassy in London, England and consulate generals in Belfast, Edinburgh and Hamilton. The US government also offers virtual services in Wales. Check out the US Embassy in the United Kingdom’s website for more information, including addresses and phone numbers for the various locations.     

If you want to be extra careful, you can list your UK travel itinerary with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate via the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . Once you do, you will receive information regarding any travel advisories for Great Britain. Also, it will allow US Embassies and Consulates to facilitate communication between you and your loved ones back home if there is an emergency during your trip.

Additional information to help travelers have better experience in Great Britain:

Money in Britain is a bit different from that of the US. They use pounds 

sterling instead of dollars and pence instead of cents for starters. However, unlike in the US, their coins are actually worth a fair bit. The British have £1 and £2 coins––not notes––and they can quickly weigh your pockets down, so be sure to spend them! It’s not uncommon to discover you have US$20 in British coins hanging around. 

And since we’re talking about money, it is also good to mention that all prices in the UK include a VAT (value-added tax). If the menu says a latte is £3, you will only pay £3.

To get the best exchange rate, use your debit card to withdraw GBP from ATMs, also known as cash machines or cash points in the UK. Don’t forget to notify your bank of your travel plans so they don’t block your card. 

The British drive on the left side of the road, and their cars have the driver’s seat on the right side, which can make exploring the United Kingdom by car rather challenging for American visitors. The great news is that the UK has a fantastic national rail and bus system and quick, affordable inter-city flights. Also, cities within the UK have their own transportation systems that can almost always get you wherever you need to go. Should you decide to forego public transport and rent a car, know that a typical rental will come with a manual transmission. If you prefer an automatic, be ready to pay a premium. You will need to filter your rental car searches accordingly if this is important to you.

Another thing worth knowing before you set out on your UK adventure is that the British do not say restroom . If you ask for one, don’t be surprised when many Brits look at you, curious about what this quirky Americanism means. They also do not say bathroom unless they intend to take a bath. Instead, they ask for the loo, WC (water closet) or toilet . To avoid sounding pretentious, you can stick with toilet .

Other words and phrases you may come across:

• bill – check
• bits-n-bobs – an odd selection of things
• bloke – guy
• cheers/ta – thank you
• chin wag – a long chat
• last order – last call in a bar
• miffed – annoyed and/or confused
• nosh – food
• pissed – drunk
• queue – line (that you stand in)
• quid – one pound £ (GBP)
• taking the piss – lying,/fooling/pulling one over (on someone)
• wonky – a way of describing someone or something as unstable or shaky

People generally do not tip in cafes or fast food restaurants that require you to order at the counter. On the odd occasion, you may see a tip jar. In which case, feel free to show your appreciation. In restaurants and gastropubs (upscale pubs), tipping 10-15% of your total bill is the norm. 

However, tipping in bars or pubs is not the norm. Many establishments will include a service charge on your bill. While it is technically optional, most people pay it. If you believe the service was good enough to warrant more, you are welcome to leave a little extra.

For taxis, either round up to the nearest pound or pay 10% of your total fare, whichever is greater.

A final note about travel insurance for the UK

I have spent dozens of hours researching travel insurance, including getting quotes and comparing coverage from all the most popular brands. Regardless of where you’re going I am confident that you will also find that WithFaye.com offers the best way to compare policies with the ideal combo of coverage and price.

I wish you and yours an incredible journey.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology

• Average price for a 2-week vacation based on a 35-year-old California resident traveling to the UK with a $3,500 trip cost
• Coronavirus coverage
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR)
• AM Best rating of the underwriter
• Key policy details including cancellation, interruption, emergency medical evacuation, and baggage & personal effects
• Ease of sign up
• Policy language clarity
• User reviews

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Travel Insurance for UK Residents

• Over 50 Pre-Existing Medical Conditions covered as standard
• Cover for over 100 Adventure Activities
• For People Aged up to 89
• Geographical limits

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Whether you are planning a short city-break or a once-in-a-lifetime dream holiday, travel insurance provides essential cover for mishap like missed departure, trip cancellation, lost or stolen baggage, or expensive medical bills if you’re injured or taken ill abroad.

Travel Insurance for UK Citizens Benefits:

• 24/7 Medical Emergency Assistance service
• Already Travelling Insurance for those who have already left home without holiday insurance cover
• Trekking to altitudes of up to 3,500 meters as standard
• Extras you can add-on to suit your specific requirements
• No hidden costs and low excess levels

Globelink Travel Insurance policies are available to the UK, EU and EEA residents with repatriation back to your home country as standard.

What type of policy do I need?

There are two main types of trip insurance policies to suit your requirements. Choose Single Trip insurance if you only plan one holiday abroad, or Annual Multi-Trip policy if you are taking several trips within a year.

Are there different types of Single Trip Travel Insurance?

Compare Globelink policies and choose the one that suits you best:

• Economy – cheap travel insurance for UK residents providing basic cover up to 84
• Comprehensive – good quality travel insurance for UK citizens aged up to 89
• Globetrekkers Standard Plus  – top travel insurance UK backpackers choose for active long term trips
• Winter Sports –recommended travel insurance UK travellers take when going on a ski holiday.

Best holiday insurance for UK travellers? Get what you need with Globelink!

What does a typical UK travel insurance policy cover?

Globelink insurance policies usually cover the following:

• Trip cancellation or Curtailment
• Missed Departure
• Medical expenses
• Personal liability

Single Trip Travel Insurance

Single Trip Travel Insurance is designed for people aged up to 89 travelling independently or on a package holiday with a maximum trip duration of up to 15 months.

• Cancellation or Curtailment - up to £6,000 in total
• Emergency Medical Expenses - up to £10,000,000 in total
• Baggage - up to £3,000 in total

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Travelling more than once a year? Take as many holidays as you wish and be covered all year long! 17 days Winter Sports Cover FREE if you take out the 45 days policy.

Designed for most Individuals, Couples or Families who undertake several trips of up to 120 days within a 12 months period. For people aged up to 79 years!

• Baggage - up to £3,000 in total

Backpacker Travel Insurance

Career breaker? Globetrekker? Globelink Insurance offer the budget solution for long stay journeys.

Aimed at under 51 years old backpackers on a tight budget up to a maximum of 18 months. Most adventure sports covered for free.

• Cancellation or Curtailment - up to £2,000 in total
• Emergency Medical Expenses - up to £5,000,000 in total
• Baggage - up to £1,000 in total

See also: expat travel insurance , gap year travel insurance , international travel insurance , student travel insurance , cruise travel insurance , annual travel insurance to Europe , best travel insurance , best value travel insurance , budget travel insurance , business travel insurance , camping insurance , cheap European travel insurance , cheap holiday insurance for over 65 , cheap travel insurance couples travel insurance , Easter travel insurance , essential travel insurance , extended travel insurance , extreme sports insurance , family travel insurance , fcdo travel advice , global travel insurance , group travel insurance , holiday travel insurance , last minute travel insurance , long stay travel insurance , long term travel insurance , one way travel insurance , worldwide travel insurance , yearly travel insurance , quick quote travel insurance , travel insurance for children , travel insurance for Europe , travel insurance for non UK residents , travel insurance for working abroad , travel insurance to America

Still have questions?

Globelink team will assist solving any of your questions over the phone 00 44 (0) 1353 699082.

Travel Insurance

Please read your Policy Wording carefully to ensure that it meets with your precise requirements. View and download the relevant Policy Wording* from the links below. If you purchased a Globelink policy previously while you were an EU RESIDENT, or you need to view the Policy Wording we issue to EU Residents, please click here to visit our Globelink EU site.

*If you purchased your Travel Insurance policy prior to Jan 2022, you can view your policy wording by reviewing your Globelink Travel Insurance Documents Purchase email, or obtain a copy by contacting [email protected] with your name and address details.

*if you purchased a STAYCATION Policy please see the *last PDF at the bottom of this page – for the Staycation Policy Wording

Policy Wording for Policies issued to UK residents (Living in the UK only) from from 29th November onwards .

Policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 1st october 2023 to 28th november ., policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 1st june 2022 to 30th september 2023 ., policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 1st feb 2022 to 31st may 2022., policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 30th dec 2020 to 31st january 2022, policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 29th oct - 29th dec 2020, policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 1st oct - 28th oct 2020, policy wording for policies issued to uk residents (living in the uk only) from 1st feb – 10th august 2020.

For reliable Travel Insurance, simply complete 5 quick & easy steps. Pay with your Visa, MasterCard, or PayPal and receive your policy documents by email in seconds.

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Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance of April 2024

Mandy Sleight

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 9:52 a.m. UTC April 11, 2024

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Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

WorldTrips is the best cheap travel insurance company of 2024 based on our in-depth analysis of the cheapest travel insurance plans. Its Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier plans offer affordable travel insurance with high limits for emergency medical and evacuation benefits bundled with good coverage for trip delays, travel inconvenience and missed connections.

Cheapest travel insurance of 2024

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of travel insurance experts analyzes hundreds of insurance products and thousands of data points to help you find the best travel insurance for your next trip. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content . You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best cheap travel insurance

Top-scoring plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, medical evacuation limit per person, why it’s the best.

WorldTrips tops our rating of the cheapest travel insurance with two plans:

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheaper travel insurance plan of the two, with $100,000 per person in emergency medical benefits as secondary coverage and an optional upgrade to primary coverage. It’s also our pick for the best travel insurance for cruises .
• Atlas Journey Premier costs a little more but gives you $150,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage . This is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority.

Pros and cons

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheapest of our 5-star travel insurance plans.
• Atlas Journey Premier offers $150,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Both plans have top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Each plan offers travel inconvenience coverage of $750 per person.
• 12 optional upgrades, including destination wedding and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Cheap travel insurance for cruises

Travel insured.

Top-scoring plan

Travel Insured offers cheap travel insurance for cruises and its Worldwide Trip Protector plan gets 4 stars in our rating of the best cruise travel insurance .

• Worldwide Trip Protector offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits, which means you won’t have to file medical claims with your health insurance first.
• Cheap trip insurance for cruises.
• Offers a rare $150,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person only available for cruises and tours.

Best cheap travel insurance for families

Travelex has the best cheap travel insurance for families because kids age 17 are covered by your policy for free when they’re traveling with you.

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• $2,000 travel delay coverage per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Only $50,000 per person emergency medical coverage.
• Baggage delay coverage is only $200 and requires a 12-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for seniors

Evacuation limit per person

Nationwide has the best cheap travel insurance for seniors — its Prime plan gets 4 stars in our best senior travel insurance rating. However, Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan ranks higher in our best cheap travel insurance rating.

• Cruise Choice has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion. It also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay, for cruises or tours. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.
• Coverage for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person is only for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for add-on options

AIG offers the best cheap travel insurance for add-on options because the Travel Guard Preferred plan allows you to customize your policy with a host of optional upgrades.

• Travel Guard Preferred upgrades include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings. There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million.
• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your affordable travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Best cheap travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe has the best cheap travel insurance for missed connections because coverage is not limited to cruises and tours, as it is with many policies.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of the best cheap travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

Cheapest travel insurance comparison

How much does the cheapest travel insurance cost?

The cheapest travel insurance in our rating is $334. This is for a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred travel insurance plan, based on the average of seven quotes for travelers of various ages to international destinations with a range of trip values.  

Factors that determine travel insurance cost

There are several factors that determine the cost of travel insurance, including:

• Age and number of travelers being insured.
• Trip length.
• Total trip cost.
• The travel insurance plan you choose.
• The travel insurance company.
• Any add-ons, features or upgraded benefits you include in the travel insurance plan.

Expert tip: “In general, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 10% of their total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs,” said Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip.

Is buying the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?

Choosing cheaper travel insurance without paying attention to what a plan covers and excludes could leave you underinsured for your trip. Comparing travel insurance plans side-by-side can help ensure you get enough coverage to protect yourself financially in an emergency for the best price. 

For example, compare these two Travelex travel insurance plans:

• Travel Basic is cheaper but it only provides up to $15,000 for emergency medical expense coverage. You’ll also have to pay extra for coverage for children.
• Travel Select will cost you a bit more but it covers up to $50,000 in medical expenses and includes coverage for kids aged 17 and younger traveling with you. It also offers upgrades such additional medical coverage, “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and an adventure sports rider that may be a good fit for your trip.

Reasons to consider paying more for travel insurance 

Make sure you understand what you’re giving up if you buy the cheapest travel insurance. Here are a few reasons you may consider paying a little extra for better coverage. 

• Emergency medical. The best travel medical insurance offers primary coverage for emergency medical benefits. Travel insurance with primary coverage can cost more than secondary coverage but will save you from having to file a claim with your health insurance company before filing a travel insurance claim.
• Emergency evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote location or planning a boat excursion on your trip, look at travel insurance with a high medical evacuation insurance limit. If you are injured while traveling, transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility could cost in the tens to hundreds of thousands. It may make sense to pay more for travel insurance with robust emergency evacuation coverage. 
• Flexibility. To maximize your trip flexibility, you might consider upgrading your travel insurance to “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage . This will increase the cost of your travel insurance but allow you to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy. The catch is that you’ll need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and will only be reimbursed 50% or 75% of your trip expenses, depending on the plan. 
• Upgrades. Many travel insurance plans have optional extras like car rental collision and adventure sports (which may otherwise be excluded from coverage). These will cost you extra but may give you the coverage you need. 

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

The best way to find the cheapest travel insurance is to determine what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy and compare plans that meet your needs.

 “Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs, wants and concerns. This is why comparison is key,” said Morrow.

Consider the following factors when comparing cheap travel insurance plans.

• How often you’re traveling. A single-trip policy may be the most cost-effective if you’re only going on a single trip this year. But a multi-trip travel insurance plan may be cheaper if you’re going on multiple international trips throughout the year. Annual travel insurance policies cover you for a whole year as long as each trip doesn’t exceed a certain number of days, usually 30 to 90 days. 
• Credit card has travel insurance benefits. The best credit cards offer perks and benefits, and many offer travel insurance-specific benefits. The coverage types and benefit limits can vary, and you must put the entire trip cost on the credit card to use the coverage. If your trip costs more than the coverage limit on your card, you can supplement the rest with a cheaper travel insurance plan.
• The coverage you need. When looking for the best travel insurance option at the most affordable price, only buy extras and upgrades you really need. A basic plan may only provide up to $500 in baggage insurance, but if you only plan to take $300 worth of clothes and accessories, you don’t need to pay more for higher coverage limits.

Is cheap travel insurance worth it?

Cheap travel insurance can be worth it, as long as you understand the plan limitations and exclusions. Taking the time to read your policy, especially the fine print, well before your trip can ensure there won’t be any surprises about what’s covered once your journey begins.

“If a traveler is looking for coverage for travel delays, cancellations, interruptions, medical and baggage — a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide the most bang for their buck,” said Morrow. But if you’re on a tight budget and are only worried about emergency medical care and evacuation coverage while traveling abroad, stand-alone options are cheaper.

Before buying travel insurance, you should also consider what your health insurance will cover. 

“Most domestic health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover medical bills abroad,” said Morrow. Even if you’re staying stateside, you may find value in an affordable travel insurance plan with medical coverage if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). 

A cheap travel insurance plan is better than none at all if you end up in a situation that would have covered some or all of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance . From those top-scoring travel insurance plans, we chose the most affordable for our rating of the cheapest travel insurance.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• Cost: 40 points. We scored the average cost of each travel insurance policy for a variety of trips and traveler profiles.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

Cheapest travel insurance FAQs

When buying travel insurance, cheapest is not always the best. The most affordable travel insurance plans typically offer fewer coverages with lower policy limits and few or no optional upgrades. Add up your total nonrefundable trip costs and compare travel insurance plans and available features that cover your travel expenses. This strategy can help you find the cheapest travel insurance policy that best protects you from financial loss if an unforeseen circumstance arises.

Get the coverage you need: Best travel insurance of 2024

According to our analysis, WorldTrips , Travel Insured International and Travelex offer the best cheap travel insurance. Policy coverage types and limits can vary by each travel insurance provider, so the best way to get the cheapest travel insurance plan is to compare several policies and companies to find the right fit for your budget.

A good rate for travel insurance depends on your budget and coverage needs. The most comprehensive travel insurance plan is usually not the cheapest. But cheap trip insurance may not have enough coverage or the types of coverage you want. Comparing different levels of coverage and how much they cost can help you find the best cheap insurance for travel. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% to 6% of your total travel expenses for one trip, according to our analysis of rates. However, you may find cheaper travel insurance if you opt for a plan with fewer benefits or lower coverage limits. How much you pay for travel insurance will also depend on the number of travelers covered, their ages, the length of the trip and any upgrades you add to your plan.

Travel insurance covers nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs — up to the policy coverage limits — when your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason outlined in your plan documents. Even the cheapest travel insurance policies usually provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies.
• Trip delays.
• Trip interruption.
• Trip cancellation.
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

However, if you’re looking to save on travel insurance, you can shop for a policy that only has travel medical insurance and does not include benefits for trip cancellation .

Even when you buy cheap travel insurance, you can often use upgrade options to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. 

Some common travel insurance add-ons you may want to consider include:

• Rental car damage coverage. 
• Medical bundle.
• Security bundle.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Adventure sports bundle.
• Pet bundle.
• Wedding bundle.
• “Cancel for work reasons” coverage.
• “Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage.
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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