"Free" Travel Insurance

Beware of “free” travel insurance. Many people trust their banks, building societies & credit cards for travel insurance, which is often bundled in with their accounts. Many people think they simply have travel cover no matter where they go or their medical history.

Some credit cards such as AMEX come with travel accident cover, which is far inferior to the normal comprehensive cover. 

Often you are paying for this cover within an annual fee for a credit card. Take Barclays. They offer account holders free worldwide family travel cover if you add the ‘Travel Pack’ to your account for £10.50pcm. Nationwide Flex Account must pay in at least £750 to qualify just for annual European cover and the Halifax Ultimate reward account holders pay a £15.00pcm fee for worldwide cover.

NatWest , for a fee of £12.50pcm (reward Silver Account) only allow Europe and so if you want worldwide cover you would have to upgrade and pay even more per month.

Such policies often have an upper age limit of around 70 years. Other plans place geographical limits. Their definitions could be different to yours. EG which countries are included in Europe?

Generally, the cover is basic and lacks features a normal comprehensive policy would include. What medical pre-existing conditions would invalidate a claim?

And as with any other insurances, if you buy it or it’s offered direct, it’s your responsibility to ensure you are covered correctly. Whereas you could arrange comprehensive cover through a professional insurance broker like Lloyd Vine with help on any personal issues you may require addressed. You will be surprised how reasonable the cost is. Further for those people with ailments cost and cover is no barrier to travel.