- The best annual travel insurance plans
- What Is Annual Travel Insurance?
- The price of annual travel insurance
- Annual travel insurance coverage
- The conditions of annual travel insurance
- Why take out annual travel insurance?
- How to choose the right annual travel insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover annual travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
annual travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Annual insurance covers unlimited trips over 12 months, offering better value for frequent travellers.
2. Price: An annual policy for European travel typically starts from around £45, varying by cover level.
3. Coverage: Typically covers medical emergencies and cancellations but often excludes undeclared medical conditions and extreme sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and the NHS/GHIC offer limited protection, often excluding cancellation or full medical costs.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing medical conditions and check the policy's per-trip duration limit before you buy.
6. Other useful info: Your GHIC provides state healthcare in the EU but does not cover repatriation or private treatment.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in the UK, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best annual travel insurance.
The best annual travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best annual travel insurance plans available for UK residents in 2025.
These policies are among the best due to their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, giving frequent travelers peace of mind across multiple trips.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | £10M | £50 | • Unlimited trips per year. • Includes winter sports and adventure activities. • Pre-existing conditions covered. • 24/7 English-speaking assistance. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | £8M | £75 | • 24/7 multilingual support. • Mobile app for medical access. • Direct billing with hospitals. • Fast claims handling. |
| Tourist Card | £5M | £100 | • Annual multi-trip for families. • Online claims process. • High baggage limits. • Medical repatriation included. |
| World Travel | £3M | £75 | • Flexibility on trip lengths. • Baggage and travel delay coverage. • Good pricing for frequent travelers. • Covers some adventure sports. |
| Globe Partner | £2M | £75 | • Paperless sign-up. • Essential annual coverage. • Suited for city breaks. • Fast online quotes. |
| Globe Traveller | £2M | £75 | • Covers longer trips (up to 90 days each). • Family discounts. • Multiple destinations covered. • Online customer support. |
• Includes winter sports and adventure activities.
• Pre-existing conditions covered.
• 24/7 English-speaking assistance.
• Mobile app for medical access.
• Direct billing with hospitals.
• Fast claims handling.
• Online claims process.
• High baggage limits.
• Medical repatriation included.
• Baggage and travel delay coverage.
• Good pricing for frequent travelers.
• Covers some adventure sports.
• Essential annual coverage.
• Suited for city breaks.
• Fast online quotes.
• Family discounts.
• Multiple destinations covered.
• Online customer support.
The best annual travel insurance depends on individual travel patterns. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find your best fit and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat Is Annual Travel Insurance?
Annual travel insurance is a policy that provides continuous cover for multiple trips over a 12-month period.
It is designed for frequent travellers and covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost baggage and personal liability each time you travel within the policy year.
Unlike single-trip insurance, annual travel insurance allows unlimited journeys, though each trip duration is typically limited to 31, 45 or 90 days.
Annual travel insurance is sometimes called multi-trip insurance and is most cost-effective for those taking two or more trips a year.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out annual travel insurance is especially relevant if you live in the UK:
- When you plan two or more trips in a single year.
- For frequent last-minute getaways or spontaneous short breaks abroad.
- If you take a mix of European and worldwide holidays annually.
- For regular business travel throughout the year, domestic or international.
- To cover multiple weekend breaks to Europe without repeat admin.
- If you have a pre-existing medical condition and travel often.
- When you want cost-effective cover compared to single-trip policies.
- To include UK-based trips that meet the policy's minimum duration.
The price of annual travel insurance
On average, annual travel insurance costs between £45 and £350 per year depending on the destinations, age, and level of cover selected.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 3 trips per year to France to visit family | £1,200 | £45 to £85 |
| Monthly business trips to Germany (12 trips) | £2,400 | £65 to £120 |
| 6-month round-the-world trip (Asia focus) | £6,000 | £180 to £350 |
| 2 city breaks in Europe + 1 US holiday | £3,000 | £85 to £160 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your annual travel insurance depends on several factors:
- traveller’s age: older travellers, especially above 65, may pay higher premiums.
- trip duration limits: plans with longer single-trip limits within the policy year are usually more expensive.
- destinations covered: including worldwide cover or high-cost healthcare regions increases the price.
- level of coverage: premium options and higher benefit limits cost more.
- declared medical conditions: pre-existing conditions must be declared and may raise the premium.
- selected activities: coverage for winter sports, adventure, or business travel usually carries an extra charge.
- number of trips: frequent travellers get better value, but some policies set a cap on total trip days per year.
Annual travel insurance coverage
Annual travel insurance is an insurance policy that covers multiple trips taken within a year.
It is ideal for frequent travellers, holidaymakers and businesspeople who need year-round protection without buying separate policies for each journey.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds non-refundable travel expenses if you cancel for a covered reason before departure. | Choose at least £3,000 cover per trip with a maximum deductible of £50. Change of mind and pre-existing conditions are generally excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Covers extra transport costs if you miss your flight because of delays beyond your control. | Ensure at least £250 of cover, with no deductible. Lateness or lack of official proof usually leads to exclusion. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Pays out if your baggage or personal effects are lost, stolen, or damaged. | Minimum £1,500 is recommended, deductible below £50. Unattended belongings, and limits on valuables are common exclusions. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Provides set compensation for substantial delays to your journey. | Aim for at least £100 after 4 hours of delay, with no deductible. Delays less than the minimum period or without evidence are not covered. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Covers emergency treatment and hospital costs abroad. | At least £2 million cover, with a deductible under £75, is vital. Routine care, chronic illness and risky activities are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays for medically necessary return to the UK during a trip. | Seek unlimited or at least £10 million cover, no deductible. Voluntary repatriation and non-emergency return are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Reimburses urgent dental treatment abroad for pain relief or emergencies. | At least £200 cover and a deductible below £30 is advised. Preventive, cosmetic and planned dental work are not included. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Provides protection if you injure someone or damage property while travelling. | Not less than £2 million cover, with a maximum deductible of £100. Motor vehicle use and professional activities are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Covers legal expenses if you need to pursue or defend a claim abroad. | At least £25,000 legal costs recommended, low or no deductible. Contract disputes and criminal cases are not usually insured. |
| 💔 Trip curtailment | Pays for unused travel services and extra costs if you must cut your trip short. | Choose at least £3,000 cover and minimal deductible. Voluntary and non-essential interruptions are typically not covered. |
Change of mind and pre-existing conditions are generally excluded.
Lateness or lack of official proof usually leads to exclusion.
Unattended belongings, and limits on valuables are common exclusions.
Delays less than the minimum period or without evidence are not covered.
Routine care, chronic illness and risky activities are excluded.
Voluntary repatriation and non-emergency return are excluded.
Preventive, cosmetic and planned dental work are not included.
Motor vehicle use and professional activities are excluded.
Contract disputes and criminal cases are not usually insured.
Voluntary and non-essential interruptions are typically not covered.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the annual travel insurance best suited to your needs and travel habits, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of annual travel insurance
To activate your annual travel insurance and benefit from coverage, several essential requirements must be respected.
- UK residency: you must be a UK resident at the time of taking out your annual policy and throughout its validity period.
- Policy start date: coverage begins on the policy start date stated in your documents, not before, and must be active before your departure.
- Trip duration compliance: each individual trip must not exceed the maximum trip length defined in your policy terms, for example 31 or 45 days.
- Geographic scope: trips must take place in the regions specified in your cover, such as Europe or worldwide, as stated in your policy.
- Pre-existing conditions: you must declare any medical conditions and receive written acceptance of cover from your insurer before travelling.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be abroad on a trip for it to be covered when the annual policy begins.
- Incident notification: report any loss, damage, illness, or accident to your insurer as soon as possible during or after your trip.
- Supporting documents: all claims must be backed up with original receipts, certificates, or other proof as required by your insurer.
Watch out!
A critical error is not declaring all pre-existing medical conditions on your annual policy, even if stable. Insurers require full disclosure. Failing to declare a condition, no matter how minor, can void your entire policy, leaving you to face huge medical bills abroad.
Why take out annual travel insurance?
When travelling frequently, unforeseen health or travel issues can quickly lead to high costs abroad, even on short or routine trips.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost in Europe | Average cost in North America | Average cost in Asia | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) | £150-£300 | £800-£1,500 | £80-£200 | Up to £10,000,000 |
| Stitches after a fall | £200-£400 | £1,200-£2,500 | £100-£300 | Up to £10,000,000 |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection | £100-£250 | £600-£1,200 | £50-£150 | Up to £10,000,000 |
| Emergency tooth extraction | £150-£350 | £800-£1,800 | £80-£250 | Typically up to £1,500, subject to dental limits |
| Medical repatriation | £10,000-£40,000 | £60,000-£120,000 | £15,000-£45,000 | Up to £10,000,000 |
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Annual travel insurance may also protect you against other risks: trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage, personal liability abroad, repatriation assistance, legal expenses, and services like teleconsultation or emergency fund advances. This type of policy offers year-round peace of mind for multiple journeys.
Good to know
An annual policy offers unbeatable value and peace of mind for all your trips. Avoid the hassle of last-minute insurance and the risk of huge medical bills. Insurers like Chapka provide 24/7 assistance, ensuring you're protected from city breaks to long-haul adventures.
How to choose the right annual travel insurance
Annual travel insurance policies can vary a lot in reimbursement levels, trip duration, covered regions, and included benefits. Comparing these details helps you choose a plan that matches the frequency and nature of your travel over the year.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | High claims for medical emergencies or repatriation are only paid up to the policy cap. | Check that medical and repatriation limits are at least £5,000,000, especially worldwide. |
| 📉 Deductible | Higher out-of-pocket costs apply on each claim if you select a bigger excess. | Consider choosing the lowest excess you can afford to pay if you make a claim. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age can affect premiums, and older travellers may have restrictions or exclusions. | For travellers over 65, verify there is no upper age limit and medical cover remains broad. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Each trip is only insured up to a maximum number of days per journey. | Choose a plan that matches your longest planned trip, 31, 45, or 90 days as needed. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Policies are offered for Europe only, worldwide, or excluding North America. | Select worldwide cover if you travel outside Europe or have stopovers in excluded countries. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Individuals, couples, and families have different coverage and cost efficiencies. | A family policy is often better value and simpler for multiple family members travelling together. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards or health insurance might overlap, but can leave significant gaps. | Review your other insurances to avoid paying twice for the same guarantee or missing key benefits. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Sports, adventure travel, or work trips may require specific add-ons. | If you plan to ski or do water sports, confirm these activities are covered or add extra protection. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Fast purchasing and instant access to documents can make frequent departures smoother. | Use insurers offering easy online renewals and policy changes to save time on repeated bookings. |
Do my current insurance policies cover annual travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurances or the public health system, can offer you an annual travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Annual travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why travel insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHS (National Health Service) | Never | Emergency treatment in the UK and necessary care in EU with GHIC, no repatriation or trip cover. No cover for trip cancellation, lost baggage, repatriation or personal liability at all. | Travel insurance pays up to £10 million, covering delays, cancellation, liability and lost belongings worldwide. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, AXA PPP) | Almost Never | Emergency medical abroad up to £5 million, limited repatriation, no trip cancellation or baggage. No cover for trip cancellation, missed flights or lost/damaged baggage anywhere. | Travel insurance protects against travel delays, theft, cancellations and personal liability up to £10 million. |
| Classic credit card (Barclaycard, Lloyds) | Never | Basic medical cover up to £2-5 million, no pre-existing conditions, baggage or winter sports. No cover for trip duration over 31 days, annual multi-trips or business equipment losses. | Travel insurance covers ongoing multiple trips, business equipment and up to £10 million for emergencies and property loss. |
| Premium credit card (HSBC Premier, NatWest Black) | Limited coverage | Medical emergency cover up to £10 million, delayed baggage and cancellation, strict limits per trip. No winter sports, adventure activities, or high-value item cover for the whole year. | Travel insurance offers higher annual limits, adventure sports cover and 24/7 worldwide support up to £10 million. |
No cover for trip cancellation, lost baggage, repatriation or personal liability at all.
No cover for trip cancellation, missed flights or lost/damaged baggage anywhere.
No cover for trip duration over 31 days, annual multi-trips or business equipment losses.
No winter sports, adventure activities, or high-value item cover for the whole year.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance often exclude key situations like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Always read the small print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is annual travel insurance mandatory?
Annual travel insurance is not legally required for trips from the UK, but some countries (such as Cuba and certain Schengen states) ask for proof of insurance on entry. While not compulsory for most destinations, annual cover is strongly recommended for frequent travelers. For example, multiple short business trips or spontaneous holidays can expose you to costly cancellations or emergencies—insurance ensures financial protection every time you travel.
When is it recommended to purchase annual travel insurance?
The best time to buy annual travel insurance is before your first trip of the year—ideally as soon as your travel plans become regular or predictable. Buying early ensures you’re protected from the outset, including for cancellation or lost baggage on your first journey, and maximises value by covering all trips for 12 months from policy start.
How do I purchase annual travel insurance?
Start by comparing annual travel insurance plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the most suitable provider and policy. Carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, such as trip length limits and destination restrictions specific to annual policies. Buy online with your chosen insurer, then receive your certificate—usually instantly or via email.
Can I purchase annual travel insurance after I have booked a trip?
Yes, you can take out annual cover after booking, as long as the trip hasn’t started. However, purchasing prior to booking or immediately after secures cancellation benefits for that and all future trips, so the sooner you buy, the broader your coverage will be.
How do I make a claim on annual travel insurance?
To make a claim, notify your insurer’s helpline as soon as possible and collect required evidence, such as receipts or medical certificates. Submit your claim online, through the insurer’s app, or by post, depending on their process. Many providers now offer fast-track digital claims for quicker resolution.
Does annual travel insurance cover adventure activities or winter sports?
Many annual policies offer adventure or winter sports cover as paid add-ons, not as standard. If you plan to ski or partake in extreme activities on any trip, check the list of included sports and select the right add-on. Otherwise, such activities may be excluded, leaving you unprotected for related incidents.
Is worldwide travel included in annual travel insurance policies?
Annual travel insurance often comes in two main options: European or worldwide cover. Worldwide policies usually cost more but are essential for frequent intercontinental trips. Always confirm the definition of “worldwide,” since some insurers exclude the USA, Canada, or Caribbean unless specifically chosen.
Does my annual policy renew automatically each year?
Most annual travel insurance policies are set to auto-renew; you’ll be notified ahead of time. It’s important to review your policy details at renewal, as premiums, cover limits, or terms may change year to year. Compare fresh quotes to ensure you continue to get the best value and cover for your needs.
Is annual travel insurance mandatory?
Annual travel insurance is not legally required for trips from the UK, but some countries (such as Cuba and certain Schengen states) ask for proof of insurance on entry. While not compulsory for most destinations, annual cover is strongly recommended for frequent travelers. For example, multiple short business trips or spontaneous holidays can expose you to costly cancellations or emergencies—insurance ensures financial protection every time you travel.
When is it recommended to purchase annual travel insurance?
The best time to buy annual travel insurance is before your first trip of the year—ideally as soon as your travel plans become regular or predictable. Buying early ensures you’re protected from the outset, including for cancellation or lost baggage on your first journey, and maximises value by covering all trips for 12 months from policy start.
How do I purchase annual travel insurance?
Start by comparing annual travel insurance plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the most suitable provider and policy. Carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, such as trip length limits and destination restrictions specific to annual policies. Buy online with your chosen insurer, then receive your certificate—usually instantly or via email.
Can I purchase annual travel insurance after I have booked a trip?
Yes, you can take out annual cover after booking, as long as the trip hasn’t started. However, purchasing prior to booking or immediately after secures cancellation benefits for that and all future trips, so the sooner you buy, the broader your coverage will be.
How do I make a claim on annual travel insurance?
To make a claim, notify your insurer’s helpline as soon as possible and collect required evidence, such as receipts or medical certificates. Submit your claim online, through the insurer’s app, or by post, depending on their process. Many providers now offer fast-track digital claims for quicker resolution.
Does annual travel insurance cover adventure activities or winter sports?
Many annual policies offer adventure or winter sports cover as paid add-ons, not as standard. If you plan to ski or partake in extreme activities on any trip, check the list of included sports and select the right add-on. Otherwise, such activities may be excluded, leaving you unprotected for related incidents.
Is worldwide travel included in annual travel insurance policies?
Annual travel insurance often comes in two main options: European or worldwide cover. Worldwide policies usually cost more but are essential for frequent intercontinental trips. Always confirm the definition of “worldwide,” since some insurers exclude the USA, Canada, or Caribbean unless specifically chosen.
Does my annual policy renew automatically each year?
Most annual travel insurance policies are set to auto-renew; you’ll be notified ahead of time. It’s important to review your policy details at renewal, as premiums, cover limits, or terms may change year to year. Compare fresh quotes to ensure you continue to get the best value and cover for your needs.
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