- The best single trip travel insurance plans
- What is single trip travel insurance?
- The price of single trip travel insurance
- What does single trip travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of single trip travel insurance
- Why take out single trip travel insurance?
- How to choose the right single trip travel insurance
- Do your current insurance policies cover single trip travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
single trip travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Single trip insurance provides cover for one specific journey, from the day you leave until you return.
2. Price: A one-week policy for Europe typically costs between £15 and £35, depending on age and cover level.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical emergencies and cancellation but excludes undeclared pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and the GHIC offer limited protection, often excluding cancellation, repatriation, and non-EU medical costs.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing medical conditions and check the policy excess and specific cover for your planned activities.
6. Other useful info: Your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is not a substitute for travel insurance, even within Europe.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in the UK, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best single trip travel insurance.
The best single trip travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best single trip travel insurance plans available for UK residents in 2025.
These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and clear, flexible terms tailored to individual journeys.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | £10M | £0 | • 24/7 worldwide support. • Instant policy certificate by email. • Covers most pre-existing conditions. • Flexible coverage for all destinations. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | £8M | £0 | • Mobile medical access. • No age increases. • Direct hospital billing. • Adventure sports automatically included. |
| Tourist Card | £10M | £50 | • Upfront payment guarantee. • WhatsApp assistance line. • Fast family claims handling. • Winter sports and adventure options available. |
| World Travel | £5M | £75 | • Online policy management. • Suitable for business travel. • 24/7 emergency helpline. • High baggage reimbursement limits. |
| Globe Partner | £1M | £100 | • Low-cost for short Europe-only trips. • Simple claims submission. • Digital enrolment. • Discounts for students and youth. |
| Globe Traveller | £1M | £100 | • Longer trip coverage (up to 12 months per trip). • Stable pricing by age. • Multilingual assistance. • EU and worldwide options. |
• Instant policy certificate by email.
• Covers most pre-existing conditions.
• Flexible coverage for all destinations.
• No age increases.
• Direct hospital billing.
• Adventure sports automatically included.
• WhatsApp assistance line.
• Fast family claims handling.
• Winter sports and adventure options available.
• Suitable for business travel.
• 24/7 emergency helpline.
• High baggage reimbursement limits.
• Simple claims submission.
• Digital enrolment.
• Discounts for students and youth.
• Stable pricing by age.
• Multilingual assistance.
• EU and worldwide options.
The best single trip travel insurance depends on your requirements. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find your ideal cover and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is single trip travel insurance?
Single trip travel insurance is a policy that covers one specific journey, from departure to return, for its full duration.
It provides protection for unexpected incidents such as medical emergencies, cancellation, lost baggage, or travel delays, matched precisely to the dates and destination of your trip.
This type of insurance is ideal for occasional travellers who do not need year-round protection.
Single trip policies are often confused with annual travel insurance, but they only cover a single journey rather than multiple trips within a year.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out single trip travel insurance is especially relevant for UK residents:
- For infrequent travellers taking one or two holidays per year.
- When visiting countries with high medical costs, like the USA.
- If you have a pre-existing medical condition to declare for cover.
- For a single, long trip exceeding annual policy duration limits.
- To protect a high-value or non-refundable holiday booking.
- If your holiday includes adventure sports not covered by standard policies.
- For older travellers facing age restrictions on annual insurance policies.
The price of single trip travel insurance
On average, single trip travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 7 days in Spain | £600 | £15 to £35 |
| 14 days in Thailand | £2,000 | £80 to £150 |
| 10 days in the United States (family) | £3,000 | £120 to £200 |
| 21 days in Australia or New Zealand | £2,500 | £90 to £180 |
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 single trip travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer your trip, the higher the premium.
- destination: countries with expensive healthcare or high risk require more costly insurance.
- traveller’s age: older travellers generally pay more for coverage.
- level of coverage: more comprehensive plans with higher benefit limits increase the price.
- pre-existing medical conditions: declaring such conditions usually raises the premium.
- selected activities: adding cover for winter sports, adventure or valuable items can increase the cost.
What does single trip travel insurance cover?
Single trip travel insurance offers cover for a specific journey, from leaving your home to your return.
It is ideal for occasional travellers or one-off holidays since it is matched precisely to the duration, destination and risks of your single trip.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund for non-refundable costs if you cancel before departure. | We recommend at least £1,000 cover per person and deductible under £50. Change of mind and work issues are usually not covered. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Pays extra transport if you miss your scheduled transport for an accepted reason. | Look for cover of at least £250, with no deductible. Delays due to your lateness or lack of proof are always excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensates if your baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. | Minimum £1,000 cover is advised, with deductible below £50. Unattended luggage and excessive cash are typically excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays a fixed amount for long delays affecting scheduled transport. | Aim for at least £100 after 4 hours delay and avoid excess. Shorter delays and cases with insufficient documentation are not covered. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care and hospital costs abroad. | Choose at least £1M cover, ideally up to £10M, with a deductible not higher than £50. Pre-existing and routine treatment are not included. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays the cost to return you to the UK if medically necessary. | Seek unlimited cover for all destinations, managed by your insurer. Non-medical or voluntary repatriation is generally excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for urgent dental treatment required during your journey. | Opt for cover of at least £200, deductible below £30. Planned, routine or cosmetic dental work is not included. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Pays if you injure someone or damage property abroad. | At least £1M cover is best, deductible should not exceed £100. Events involving family, rented homes, or intentional acts are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Covers lawyer fees or bail abroad following an incident. | not less than £3,000 cover, £7,500 for bail. Criminal acts, alcohol involvement or contract disputes are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused services if your trip is cut short. | At least £1,000 cover recommended and avoid high deductibles. Voluntary returns or minor reasons for interruption are not covered. |
Change of mind and work issues are usually not covered.
Delays due to your lateness or lack of proof are always excluded.
Unattended luggage and excessive cash are typically excluded.
Shorter delays and cases with insufficient documentation are not covered.
Pre-existing and routine treatment are not included.
Non-medical or voluntary repatriation is generally excluded.
Planned, routine or cosmetic dental work is not included.
Events involving family, rented homes, or intentional acts are excluded.
Criminal acts, alcohol involvement or contract disputes are excluded.
Voluntary returns or minor reasons for interruption are 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 single trip travel insurance best suited to your specific journey, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of single trip travel insurance
To activate your single trip travel insurance and make sure your cover is valid, several main requirements must be met.
- Residency requirement: you must be a resident of the UK at policy purchase and for the duration of your trip.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy your single trip insurance before your departure from the UK, not after leaving.
- Trip duration compliance: your trip must not exceed the maximum number of days stated in your policy.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be abroad when you take out the insurance; cover starts and ends within your trip dates.
- Destination declaration: you must specify every country you intend to visit; cover only applies to destinations listed in your policy.
- Pre-existing conditions: you must declare any medical conditions to your insurer and get written acceptance for cover.
- Incident reporting: you must inform your insurer as soon as possible after any major incident, loss, or medical emergency.
- Supporting evidence: all claims require original documents, such as receipts, police reports, or certificates, to support your case.
Watch out!
A common mistake is buying single trip insurance just before you travel. For cancellation cover to be valid, you must purchase your policy when you book your holiday. Buying it later means you're not protected if you have to cancel the trip before your departure date.
Why take out single trip travel insurance?
Unexpected illnesses or accidents during a single trip can result in significant expenses abroad that may not be covered by the NHS or local healthcare schemes.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to £10,000,000, depending on plan |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Up to £10,000,000, depending on plan |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Up to £10,000,000, depending on plan |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Usually up to £1,500, subject to dental limits |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to £10,000,000, depending on plan |
- Europe: £150-300
- North America: £800-1,200
- Asia: £100-250
- Europe: £200-400
- North America: £1,000-2,000
- Asia: £150-350
- Europe: £100-250
- North America: £500-1,000
- Asia: £80-200
- Europe: £150-350
- North America: £600-1,200
- Asia: £100-300
- Europe: £3,000-8,000
- North America: £15,000-35,000
- Asia: £2,000-6,000
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.
Single trip travel insurance may also protect against other risks: trip cancellation, interruption, lost or stolen luggage, civil liability, repatriation assistance, teleconsultation and emergency advances, all of which are essential for worry-free travel.
Good to know
Your one-off holiday deserves proper protection. An unexpected medical emergency can cost thousands. Get peace of mind with comprehensive cover for medical bills and cancellations. With a policy from providers like Chapka, you’re covered from departure to return, letting you truly relax on your trip.
How to choose the right single trip travel insurance
Coverage for single trip travel insurance can differ widely: reimbursement amounts, deductibles, and covered activities may all vary. It is important to review the main criteria before choosing to ensure proper protection for your journey.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits may not cover the full cost of a medical emergency or cancellation abroad | For USA or long-haul trips, choose at least £2,000,000 medical and £1,500 cancellation coverage. |
| 📉 Deductible | Higher excess means larger out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim | Opt for the lowest possible excess on medical and cancellation sections to avoid unexpected charges. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Small print may exclude certain causes or situations, such as late booking or pre-existing injuries | Check for exclusions on activities, pre-existing conditions, and required purchase deadlines. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Older travellers might face special clauses or premium surcharges | If over 65, ensure your plan accepts your age and provides full medical cover before departure. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo, couple, or family trips need different coverage for luggage and cancellation | Family plans often offer better value and comprehensive benefits for those travelling with children. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Most single trip plans are only valid for a specific length, usually up to 31 or 45 days | Ensure your policy covers the full duration of your journey, including extensions if trip dates shift. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage changes for Europe only, worldwide excluding USA, or true global | Always check your destination is included and consider worldwide cover if transiting countries. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Some benefits may overlap with what your bank card or health plan already offers | Review existing insurance before buying extras to prevent paying twice for common guarantees. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Standard policies may exclude sports, adventure, or risky activities | If activities like skiing or trekking are planned, confirm these are covered or add the relevant options. |
Do your current insurance policies cover single trip travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, like credit card insurances or the public health system, can offer you a single trip 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 | Single trip travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why travel insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHS (National Health Service) | Never | Emergency treatment in the EU with GHIC. No cover for repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, or medical emergencies outside the EU at all. | Travel insurance provides up to £10,000,000 for medical, repatriation, lost baggage, and cancellations. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, AXA PPP Healthcare) | Almost Never | Medical treatment abroad, possible repatriation up to £1,000,000, no baggage or cancellation cover. No cover for lost luggage, delays, trip cancellation, or personal liability abroad during a single trip. | Travel insurance covers medical, cancellation, baggage, and personal accident up to £10,000,000. |
| Classic credit card (Barclaycard, Santander) | Never | Sometimes basic medical for short trips, cover rarely above £2,000,000. No emergency repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage protection, valuable item cover, or long trip benefits. | Travel insurance provides medical, lost items, and repatriation up to £10,000,000 during your trip. |
| Premium credit card (NatWest Black, HSBC Premier) | Limited coverage | Medical, baggage, cancellation, personal liability, with caps between £1,000 and £10,000. No cover for adventure sports, extended delays, high-value documents, or missed connections over longer single trips. | Travel insurance covers extended risks, adventure sports, cancellations, and medical costs up to £10,000,000. |
No cover for repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, or medical emergencies outside the EU at all.
No cover for lost luggage, delays, trip cancellation, or personal liability abroad during a single trip.
No emergency repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage protection, valuable item cover, or long trip benefits.
No cover for adventure sports, extended delays, high-value documents, or missed connections over longer single trips.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance policies often exclude crucial situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Read the terms carefully to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Single trip travel insurance is not generally mandatory, but it is required for entry into some countries, particularly for visa applications to Schengen countries or if you are taking part in certain organised activities. Even where it is not required, it is strongly recommended. For example, falling ill or facing an accident during a ski holiday in the USA can result in huge medical bills if you are not insured.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
The best time to purchase single trip travel insurance is as soon as you have booked your flights or accommodation. Buying early ensures you are covered for cancellation or disruption that may occur before you depart, as well as during your trip itself, making your coverage both effective and financially advantageous.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
First, compare providers and coverage using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, as single trip policies often have specific conditions regarding trip length and planned activities. Then purchase your selected policy online, after which you will receive your insurance certificate, ready for travel.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase single trip travel insurance any time before your departure, even if you have already booked your travel. However, some benefits, like cancellation cover, only apply to events occurring after you have bought the policy. For full protection, it is best to buy insurance immediately after booking.
How do I make a claim under my single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, you should contact your insurer’s claims team as soon as possible, providing all requested documentation such as receipts, medical reports, or police statements. Most UK insurers facilitate claims submission online and offer 24/7 telephone support for emergencies. Keep copies of your travel documents to speed up your claim.
Is cover for pre-existing medical conditions available with single trip travel insurance?
Some single trip policies do provide cover for pre-existing medical conditions if you declare them during the application and they are accepted by the insurer. Often, an extra premium will apply, or you may need to complete a medical screening. Failure to declare conditions can invalidate future related claims.
Are adventure sports and winter activities covered by single trip travel insurance?
Standard single trip travel insurance does not always cover sports like skiing, scuba diving, or mountain climbing. If you plan to take part in these activities, you must check your policy for specific inclusion or purchase an adventure sports or winter sports add-on. Never assume risky activities are included automatically.
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Single trip travel insurance is not generally mandatory, but it is required for entry into some countries, particularly for visa applications to Schengen countries or if you are taking part in certain organised activities. Even where it is not required, it is strongly recommended. For example, falling ill or facing an accident during a ski holiday in the USA can result in huge medical bills if you are not insured.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
The best time to purchase single trip travel insurance is as soon as you have booked your flights or accommodation. Buying early ensures you are covered for cancellation or disruption that may occur before you depart, as well as during your trip itself, making your coverage both effective and financially advantageous.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
First, compare providers and coverage using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Carefully check the guarantees and exclusions, as single trip policies often have specific conditions regarding trip length and planned activities. Then purchase your selected policy online, after which you will receive your insurance certificate, ready for travel.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase single trip travel insurance any time before your departure, even if you have already booked your travel. However, some benefits, like cancellation cover, only apply to events occurring after you have bought the policy. For full protection, it is best to buy insurance immediately after booking.
How do I make a claim under my single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, you should contact your insurer’s claims team as soon as possible, providing all requested documentation such as receipts, medical reports, or police statements. Most UK insurers facilitate claims submission online and offer 24/7 telephone support for emergencies. Keep copies of your travel documents to speed up your claim.
Is cover for pre-existing medical conditions available with single trip travel insurance?
Some single trip policies do provide cover for pre-existing medical conditions if you declare them during the application and they are accepted by the insurer. Often, an extra premium will apply, or you may need to complete a medical screening. Failure to declare conditions can invalidate future related claims.
Are adventure sports and winter activities covered by single trip travel insurance?
Standard single trip travel insurance does not always cover sports like skiing, scuba diving, or mountain climbing. If you plan to take part in these activities, you must check your policy for specific inclusion or purchase an adventure sports or winter sports add-on. Never assume risky activities are included automatically.
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