travel insurance

There are a number of specialist travel insurance policies tailor-made for your needs. Among the options available are:

Family travel insurance - Combining policies for couples or families generally works out cheaper as the costs are higher 'per trip' than 'per person'.

Over 65s travel insurance - The likes of Select Travel Insurance, Flexi Cover Direct and Travel Insurance Discounts offer great packages for over 65s that compete with big guns like Saga. Prices vary depending on your age group, ie 65-69, 70-75, 75-80 and over 80. Use our over 65s travel insurance price comparison tool to compare policies for over 65s.

Gap-year travel insurance - Also known as backpackers' insurance or long-stay insurance, these specialist policies can offer incentives that regular policies can't, including cover from three to 24 months. Furthermore, it can also cover working overseas, which is usually necessary for an extended trip and should cover you for cancellations if you fail your exams.

Pre-existing conditions - If you have a serious medical condition (or have had one in the past) you could find yourself receiving a huge travel insurance quote, especially in countries where medical treatment is high. There are a number of specialist insurers out there that will offer assistance such as Direct Travel, Help the Aged, Columbus, Saga and more. If the costs are through the roof it may be an idea to get a quote excluding these

pre-existing conditions - though that is obviously at your own risk. Be careful about the judgment you make in those circumstances.

Winter sports insurance - This is an optional extra on a number of policies, but there are also specialist polices available that are ideal for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Remember the cheapest might not be the best – check the cover policy to ensure all of your needs are covered - for example equipment, different sports, search & rescue, off-piste activities, etc.