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Travel Insurance for the UK
Travel Insurance for the UK
Written by
Rachel Gregg
Edited by
Ellie Garran
Reviewed by
Adrian BennettEasily compare Travel Insurance
Save time and effort by comparing a range of travel insurance policies with iSelect
Do I need travel insurance for the UK?
Long story short
Travel insurance still matters in the UK
Even though Australia has a healthcare agreement with the UK, it might not cover everything. Travel insurance can help fill the gaps.
You might not need a visa, but check first
For holidays under six months, Aussies usually skip the visa queue. For longer stays, you need the right visa, so plan ahead.
Travel insurance isn’t free, but it won’t take up all your budget
A week-long comprehensive policy for the UK averages at around $81. Extra cover for snow sports or cruises can bump up the cost, so budget wisely.
Do I need travel insurance for the UK?
The chance of hearing another Aussie accent on UK shores is a sure thing. Over a million (1.2 to be exact) Australian travellers visited the UK in 2024. Even though the distance is great, it’s easy to see why Aussies flock there: the iconic landmarks, breathtaking scenery, and enough history to make your high school history teacher proud.
But even in a country that feels familiar, travel insurance can come in handy. A policy isn’t just there for the big ticket items that can break your trip, but all the minor issues in between, whether that’s missing luggage or weather delays that mean you miss a prearranged tour.
And yes, the UK does have a reciprocal healthcare agreement (RHCA) with Australia, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can walk out of the ER bill-free. The agreement lets Australians receive free (medically necessary) care in the National Health Service (NHS) system at hospitals and with GPs . But it won’t cover everything, so non-subsidised medicines or dental work could hit your wallet hard. While these healthcare agreements are a nice-to-have, they aren’t a solve-all. Which is why it’s still a good idea to have a travel insurance policy in your back pocket to fill any gaps that might be missed.
What popular activities in the UK can travel insurance cover?
There’s plenty to do across the United Kingdom. Here are a few top picks and how travel insurance can help cover your adventure.
Hike across the Lake District
The Lake District is one of the UK’s most popular national parks, and it’s easy to see why. With its lush hills, mirror-like lakes, and trails that inspired English wordsmiths like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, the Lake District became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017. From lake cruises across Windermere to mountain walks in the humpbacked fells, there’s plenty of scenery to soak in all around. If you plan on exploring the many hills of the Lake District, cruising, or embarking on any other outdoor adventures, make sure your policy covers your activities before jumping in headfirst.
Cruise the North Coast 500
Scotland’s most famous road, the North Coast 500, takes you through a loop of rugged highlands, quiet villages, and water views in the remote West Coast and the remote top of Scotland. It’s famous not only for its stunning scenery of lochs and grasslands, but also for all the attractions along the way. You can find next-level seafood restaurants, whiskey distilleries, castle ruins, and more. If you plan to rent a car, look for a policy that includes rental car excess in case a scenic detour turns into mayhem.
Bask in Brighton
Sure, it’s different to Bondi, but that doesn’t mean the British seaside isn’t worth exploring. Between Brighton Palace Pier’s restaurants and arcades to the Lanes, filled with record and bric-a-brac stores galore, you’ll find the time slipping through your fingers like sand. If you’re visiting in summer (peak beach season), just be prepared for a crowded, stony beach and possibly some pickpockets. Make sure you’ve got travel insurance in case you get your bag snatched while enjoying one of Britain’s best beach towns.
Walk the Gobbins Cliff Path on the Irish Coast
Northern Ireland is known for its volcanic rock formations, and we’re not just talking about the Giant’s Causeway. The Gobbins Cliff Path in County Antrim is another unique spot carved into ancient cliffs above the raging sea. First designed at the turn of the 20th century, the Gobbins Cliff Path is an ambitious walkway that winds through bridges, tunnels, and cliffside lookouts, all carved in and around the water’s edge. If you plan on taking a tour along this rugged yet majestic path, make sure you’ve got travel insurance handy. Due to its location, it can be closed at a moment’s notice from rockfall, storms, and unpredictable weather.
‘I’d definitely recommend seeing a show in the West End (London’s version of Broadway) – just be prepared for small and steep seating; they even hand out little binoculars to get the best view. St. Paul’s Cathedral is another popular stop; just make sure you choose a clear day to visit so those 500+ steps to the top are worth it.
When it comes to getting around, skip the tourist buses and hop on a regular one. Routes 11, 15, and 9 all hit the big sights, minus the tourists.’
Rachel Gregg
Digital Writer, iSelect
What does travel insurance for the UK typically cover?
Stolen items
Keep an eye on your stuff, especially in busy tourist areas. Pickpocketing does happen, and insurance can help cover replacements if your valuables go missing.
Medical costs
If you have to take a trip to the ER, have emergency dental issues, or need to be medically evacuated, your policy will have unlimited coverage for your medical needs.
Personal liability
Injuring someone or damaging property can lead to expensive legal costs. Travel insurance can help cover personal liability costs up to certain limits.
Cancellation fees and lost deposits
Unexpected delays or illness can mean you lose out on deposits and cancellation fees. Some policies can help reimburse these costs up to the specified limit.
Rental vehicle excess
Cruising the countryside in the UK is an incredible experience. But if you damage your rental car, some policies include rental vehicle excess cover, so you may not be left out of pocket.
Unattended items
Possessions left in public spaces won’t be covered if they’re stolen, so keep a close eye on your valuables.
Activities you need extra cover for
If you don’t buy specific cover for skiing, adventure activities, or cruises, then your provider likely won’t cover you for any related claims.
Drug and alcohol accidents
Injuries and accidents related to alcohol or drugs usually aren’t covered, so go easy on the Pimm’s and avoid drugs.
Ignoring travel warnings
Heading somewhere Smartraveller rates as a ‘Do not travel’ area? Your insurer might remove its coverage for these areas.
Pre-existing conditions
If you have a pre-existing medical condition and don’t let your insurer know, any related claims could be rejected.
Winter sports
Sometimes basic cover might not be enough for your journey. If you’ve got plans to hit the slopes of Scotland, then you’ll probably need extra cover for snow sports to be able to claim if something goes wrong.
Cruise cover
If you’ve got plans to cruise across the British Isles, or the UK is one stop on a bigger European cruise, you’ll need extra cover for the risks specific to cruises, like missed ports and on-board medical fees.
Stolen items
Keep an eye on your stuff, especially in busy tourist areas. Pickpocketing does happen, and insurance can help cover replacements if your valuables go missing.
Medical costs
If you have to take a trip to the ER, have emergency dental issues, or need to be medically evacuated, your policy will have unlimited coverage for your medical needs.
Personal liability
Injuring someone or damaging property can lead to expensive legal costs. Travel insurance can help cover personal liability costs up to certain limits.
Cancellation fees and lost deposits
Unexpected delays or illness can mean you lose out on deposits and cancellation fees. Some policies can help reimburse these costs up to the specified limit.
Rental vehicle excess
Cruising the countryside in the UK is an incredible experience. But if you damage your rental car, some policies include rental vehicle excess cover, so you may not be left out of pocket.
Unattended items
Possessions left in public spaces won’t be covered if they’re stolen, so keep a close eye on your valuables.
Activities you need extra cover for
If you don’t buy specific cover for skiing, adventure activities, or cruises, then your provider likely won’t cover you for any related claims.
Drug and alcohol accidents
Injuries and accidents related to alcohol or drugs usually aren’t covered, so go easy on the Pimm’s and avoid drugs.
Ignoring travel warnings
Heading somewhere Smartraveller rates as a ‘Do not travel’ area? Your insurer might remove its coverage for these areas.
Pre-existing conditions
If you have a pre-existing medical condition and don’t let your insurer know, any related claims could be rejected.
Winter sports
Sometimes basic cover might not be enough for your journey. If you’ve got plans to hit the slopes of Scotland, then you’ll probably need extra cover for snow sports to be able to claim if something goes wrong.
Cruise cover
If you’ve got plans to cruise across the British Isles, or the UK is one stop on a bigger European cruise, you’ll need extra cover for the risks specific to cruises, like missed ports and on-board medical fees.
How much does travel insurance for the UK typically cost?
The expense of travel insurance for the UK depends on your chosen provider and the details unique to your trip. But comparing from iSelect’s range as of October 2025, a typical comprehensive policy for a week-long trip to the UK averages at about $81.1Indicative pricing based on a 30-year-old solo traveller with no extra coverage needed. Comparison conducted via the iSelect website, October 2025 If you decide to add cover for snow sports or cruises, the cost of your premium could bump up to around double the price or more, so make sure to factor that into your travel budget.
Helpful tip
If you change your plans after buying a policy, it’s important to understand whether you can cancel or amend your policy with your insurer. Every provider has different requirements, so you could potentially be reimbursed for the cost of your policy, or you could take advantage of the cooling-off period in your policy. In cooling-off periods, you can get a full or partial refund as long as you haven’t started your trip or made a claim.
Adrian Bennett
General Manager for General Insurance
Travel tips for the UK
Visas
If you’re heading over for a holiday for less than six months, you can usually skip the visa queue altogether. If you plan on staying for longer than six months, or if you’re travelling for reasons other than tourism, like working or studying, then you’ll need to apply for a visa. There are different ones depending on your reason for travel, but in most cases, a Standard Visitor visa should fit the bill. These are for travellers visiting family, studying, or on business trips for less than six months. The Youth Mobility and Skilled Worker visas are for longer adventures. Before applying, make sure you’re applying for a visa that fits your needs, and leave time to get it approved well before your flight takes off.
Safety
The UK is a pretty safe place to travel, but like any popular destination, it has its share of petty crime. Pickpocketing, passport theft, mobile phone theft, and bag snatching are especially common in London and around major tourist attractions. Keep your bags zipped, keep an eye on your belongings, and watch for passing bikes and motorcycles, since these are often used for bag snatchings. Violent crimes like muggings, knife crime, and sexual assault can also occur across the country, so make sure to stay alert. The UK’s terrorism threat level usually sits at a ‘substantial’ rating (level three out of five). This probably sounds scarier than it is; just stay aware of your surroundings and follow local news and authorities if anything changes.
Transport
If you plan on driving around the UK to take your English adventure at your own pace, all you need is your full Australian driver’s licence; no international permits needed. This applies for 12 months; after that, you’ll need to apply for a UK driver’s licence. Or if you don’t want to drive, the UK’s public transport is next level. You can reach most corners of the country by rail, from London to the Scottish Highlands, and it’s often faster (and cheaper) to book tickets in advance. In cities, the Tube and buses are easy to use, especially with an Oyster card.
Best time to visit the UK
While the UK is known for rainy, cold weather, May to September is a good time to visit, with sunshine and warm temperatures. Spring (March – May) is a mixed bag when it comes to weather, with a mix of sunny and rainy days, but it does mean daylight savings. Summer (June – August) is the busiest season for tourists, with beaches and popular attractions filled with people, but it’s the perfect time to explore all of the UK’s landscapes. Autumn (September – November) starts to get cooler (and wetter), but you can enjoy some autumnal colours during this time of year. Finally, there’s winter (December – February). Unsurprisingly, it’s damp and cold at this time of the year, but it’s also much quieter tourist-wise.
Frequently asked questions
Which companies offer travel insurance for the UK?
When it comes to finding a travel insurance policy for your UK trip, you’ll have as many choices as there are classic English pubs in London (so more than enough). Some insurers that iSelect can help you compare include:
- Fast Cover
- Huddle Insurance
- Insure4less
- InsureandGo
- ReadySet Travel Insurance
- Southern Cross Travel Insurance
- Tick Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance Saver
- Travel Insuranz
- Travel Protect
- WAS Insurance
- World2Cover
- Zoom Travel Insurance
Other travel insurers in the market include:
- 1Cover
- Allianz
- Blue Insurance
- Budget Direct
- Bupa Travel Insurance
- Cover-More
- Everyday Travel Insurance
- Medibank
- Nib
- RACV Travel Insurance
- Travel Insurance Direct
Note: iSelect does not compare all travel insurance providers in the market, or all products offered by our partners in your area.
What travel insurance do I need for the UK?
The type of travel insurance you’ll need really depends on the type of trip you’ve planned. Maybe you’re visiting family and might only need a really minimal policy to cover you for the bare essentials while catching up with all your distant relatives. In that case, a medical-only or basic travel policy might work for your plans, covering you for health and medical emergencies.
But what if you’re on the other end of the spectrum? Maybe this is your first visit to the UK, and you’ve splashed out with a fancy hotel room overlooking the Thames, or you’ve booked a private tour across some of the grandest castles. Then a comprehensive travel insurance policy might be a better option. As well as things like medical costs and lost luggage, it covers you for any prepaid costs in case life decides to get in between you and your decadent UK plans.
And if you’re a frequent flyer juggling a handful of work-related trips in between family vacays throughout the year, then a multi-trip policy could be a better (and hands-free) option for stress-free travel, but make sure to check the limit on travelling days per year. No matter what your plans are, make sure to check out all your options to find one that meets your style of travel.
Can I still get coverage if I plan to work in the UK?
Working in the UK is a rite of passage for thousands of Australians each year, and there are options when it comes to coverage. For example, the Youth Mobility visa allows Australians to live and work in the UK for up to two years. This visa comes with a healthcare surge charge that needs to be paid, but in exchange, you’ll get full access to the NHS.
Once you’re in the system, the NHS can cover your medical bills if you get sick or have an accident. However, keeping on top of your travel insurance could be a wise decision, as it can come in handy for personal liability, lost luggage, stolen items, and rental vehicle excess costs if you encounter them.
Does travel insurance for the UK cover COVID-19?
Many travel insurance providers offer COVID-19 coverage these days, but it’s important to understand how each policy offers protection. For example, some providers won’t cover certain medical expenses after you’ve returned to Australia. Always read the provider’s product disclosure statement (PDS) to see how your policy relates to your needs.
Looking for travel insurance for the UK?
Whether you’re tracing your family roots, road-tripping through the Highlands, or finally seeing Big Ben up close, travel insurance can help keep the good times rolling if things don’t go to plan. To find a policy that matches your UK plans, compare online with iSelect to choose from a range of providers and plans before jumping on your long-haul flight.
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Save time and effort by comparing a range of travel insurance policies with iSelect
iSelect does not compare all travel insurers or policies in the market. Travel insurance is only available through our website and not all policies are available at all times or in all areas. Not all policies available from our partners are compared by iSelect and due to commercial arrangements and customer circumstances not all policies compared by iSelect will be available to all customers. Click here to view iSelect’s range of providers.
iSelect General Pty Limited ABN 90 131 798 126, AFS Licence Number: 334115. Any advice provided by iSelect is of a general nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You need to consider the appropriateness of any information or general advice iSelect gives you, having regard to your personal situation, before acting on iSelect’s advice or purchasing any policy. You should consider iSelect’s Financial Services Guide which provides information about our services and your rights as a client of iSelect. iSelect receives commission for each policy sold.