Finding the right travel insurance as over 70s can feel complicated — but the right cover is out there. This guide explains what to look for, what to avoid, and how to get the best deal.
- Check excess and exclusions, not just price — the excess is part of the price
- Buy 20–26 days before the start date — the consistently cheapest window
- Declare everything accurately — shared claim databases catch omissions
- Pay annually if possible; monthly instalments cost more than they look
Insider Notes
Renewal pricing still drifts upward despite FCA reforms. The FCA banned pure price-walking in 2022, but insurers still compete hardest for new business. A 20-minute comparison at each renewal is the highest hourly rate most households earn all year.
Underinsurance is the quiet failure mode. If you insure contents worth £50,000 for £30,000, insurers can apply 'average' and cut any payout proportionally. Recalculate your sums insured after any big purchase.
Claims history follows you across insurers (CUE and similar), so declare accurately — non-disclosure voids cover precisely when you need it. Accuracy costs a little now; a voided claim costs everything later.
What Travel Insurance Do Over 70s Need?
Over 70s have specific insurance needs. Understanding your requirements before comparing quotes will help you find the most appropriate and cost-effective cover.
Compare Quotes (June 2026)
| Provider | Cover From | Key Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aviva | £5/month | UK's largest insurer | ★★★★★ |
| Legal & General | £6/month | Flexible policy options | ★★★★★ |
| AXA | £7/month | 24/7 claims support | ★★★★☆ |
| Zurich | £8/month | Specialist policies | ★★★★☆ |
| Royal London | £6.50/month | Mutual, member-owned | ★★★★★ |
What to Look For
- Adequate cover amount — make sure the policy covers your full needs
- Exclusions — read the small print for what's not covered
- Excess — the amount you pay before the insurer pays out
- Claims process — how easy is it to make a claim?
- FCA regulated — always check the provider is FCA authorised
FAQs
Is the cheapest policy the best choice?
Not always. Check the excess, exclusions and claim limits — a £150 saving can hide a £500 higher excess. Defaqto star ratings are a quick quality filter.
Are comparison sites enough, or should I go direct?
Comparison sites cover most of the market, but Direct Line and NFU Mutual don't appear on them. Do both for a true picture.
Does a claim always raise my premium?
Usually yes, for 3–5 years, even non-fault ones. For small losses close to your excess, paying out of pocket can be cheaper long-term.
When is the best time to buy or renew?
Roughly three weeks before renewal is consistently the cheapest window in UK pricing data. Buying on the day of renewal is the most expensive.
What add-ons are actually worth it?
Legal expenses and home emergency cover are cheap and often used. Skip duplicates — check what your packaged account already provides.
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