How to compare policies side by side?

Why side by side comparison matters

Comparing travel insurance policies side by side is the only way to identify the subtle differences in wording that can lead to a rejected claim. In the UK market, two policies may appear identical in price but offer vastly different levels of protection for areas like scheduled airline failure or financial failure of a travel provider. By looking at these details simultaneously, you can ensure that you are comparing 'like for like' rather than being swayed by a low headline price that hides high excesses or restrictive terms.

• Identifies gaps in cancellation cover limits
• Highlights differences in excess payments per person
• Reveals which policies include COVID-19 protection
• Clarifies the definition of 'close relative' for claims
• Exposes hidden limits on single item valuables

What is typically covered in a standard policy

Most UK travel insurance policies provide a core set of benefits designed to protect you from financial loss. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the most significant component is emergency medical cover, which often provides limits between £5 million and £10 million. This is vital for trips to countries like the USA where healthcare costs are exceptionally high. Additionally, policies usually cover the cost of cancelling or cutting short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, or redundancy.

• Emergency medical treatment and hospital fees
• Repatriation back to the UK (air ambulance if required)
• Cancellation or curtailment of the holiday
• Loss, theft, or damage to personal baggage
• Personal liability if you cause injury or damage
• Travel delay and missed departure costs

Common exclusions to watch out for

When you compare policies side by side, pay close attention to the 'General Exclusions' section. Many UK travellers are surprised to find that claims arising from being under the influence of alcohol or participating in undeclared hazardous sports are routinely rejected. Furthermore, standard policies will not cover travel to destinations where the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has advised against 'all' or 'all but essential' travel. Failing to check these exclusions can leave you with no protection regardless of the premium paid.

Understanding UK pricing and cost factors

The cost of your travel insurance is determined by a combination of your age, your health status, and your destination. Insurers use actuarial data to assess the likelihood of a claim; for example, policies for the USA, Canada, and the Caribbean are more expensive due to the high cost of local healthcare. For a typical one-week trip in 2026, prices can vary significantly based on whether you choose a basic 'budget' tier or a 'premium' tier with no excess and higher cancellation limits.

Comparing medical screening and pre-existing conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, comparing policies becomes more complex. You must declare all conditions to ensure the policy is valid. Use the MoneyHelper travel insurance directory if you find it difficult to get cover due to serious health issues. When comparing side by side, check how each insurer handles your specific condition. Some may exclude it entirely, while others may offer cover for an additional premium. Accuracy during the screening process is essential to avoid a breach of the Consumer Insurance (Disclosure and Representations) Act 2012.

• Check if the policy requires a medical certificate
• Verify the look-back period for past conditions
• Compare the additional premium for specific illnesses
• Look for specialist providers for terminal conditions
• Confirm if terminal prognosis is covered for travel

Evidence required for successful claims

A policy is only as good as the claims process. When comparing, check the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) complaints data to see how different insurers treat their customers. To make a successful claim, you will generally need to provide documented evidence. This includes police reports for stolen items (usually obtained within 24 hours), medical reports from local doctors, and original receipts or invoices for cancelled bookings. Some insurers offer a more streamlined digital claims process than others, which can be a deciding factor.

The role of GHIC and FCDO advice

For travel within the EU, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a vital tool but not a substitute for insurance. It provides access to state-provided healthcare at the same cost as a local, but it does not cover mountain rescue or repatriation to the UK. When you compare policies side by side, look for those that waive the medical excess if you use a GHIC. Additionally, always check the FCDO website for the latest safety updates on your destination, as your insurance validity depends on following this government advice.

Practical checklist for policy comparison

Before you commit to a purchase, use this final checklist to ensure you have selected the right level of protection. Ensure that the cancellation limit covers the total cost of your trip per person, including pre-paid excursions. Check that the baggage limit is sufficient for your belongings and that the 'single item limit' covers your most expensive piece of tech or jewellery. Finally, confirm that the policy duration matches your travel dates exactly, including the day you depart and the day you return to the UK.

• Total cancellation limit matches trip cost
• Medical cover is at least £2 million for Europe
• Excess amount is affordable in a claim
• Hazardous activities like skiing are included
• End-to-end travel dates are fully covered