Coronavirus Travel Insurance Advice
The lockdowns are behind us, but Covid is still a concern for many travellers. In our annual survey, over 43%2 of people were worried about changes to travel advice or restrictions while travelling abroad. The possibility of new strains leading to cancellations was also a concern for 39.9%3 of respondents.
So we’re here to set your mind at ease and offer some Covid-19 travel insurance advice.
What Coronavirus testing do I need now?
You no longer need to take a Coronavirus test to fly from or into the UK, whether you are fully vaccinated or not. Many other countries have also now removed any testing requirements for visitors, but you should check the rules for your destination on the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) website.
How to get a Coronavirus test for travel?
If you want to put your mind at rest before you travel, you can purchase a lateral flow test (LFT) from most chemists. Some countries that still have restrictions may require officially processed tests rather than LFTs. You can find the rules for the country you’re visiting on the FCDO website and, if needed, the gov.uk site has details on how to arrange a test with a private provider.
How much is a Coronavirus test?
The cost of lateral flow tests varies depending on where you buy them and how many are in a pack. Single tests start at around £1.89, and multi-packs cost around £17.
Tests by private providers will vary in price. You can find details of approved providers on the gov.uk website.
Am I covered for Covid-19?
Whether or not you are covered for Coronavirus depends on the insurance provider you use and the details of the policy itself.
Whoever you have purchased travel insurance from, the best advice is to ensure you are up to date with any travel requirements by checking the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website. This site is regularly updated with any changes for travel, including covid restrictions, and you should check the page for your intended destination. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time in case you need to take any action before your trip.
You should also ensure that your chosen provider includes cover for events related to Covid-19. These could include needing medical treatment while abroad or having to cancel your trip due to catching Covid-19 before you travel.
All InsureandGo policies include cover for Covid-19. Please see our page about coronavirus travel insurance for full details of our cover.
Frequently asked questions
The best place to check if your destination is Covid-safe is the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website. Select your destination(s) on the page for all the relevant government advice, including Covid-related advice and any restrictions.
The Department of Transport has information on their website for travelling from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. You can also check directly with the airport or airline, as some providers may have different requirements.
Since the need to test will vary depending on which country you are travelling to, you should check the relevant destination page on the FCDO website.
You should inform your provider as soon as possible. If you require medical treatment due to Covid, you’ll need to call the emergency medical assistance line, who will be able to offer help and advice.
For more information about what to do if you catch Covid while abroad, read about our coronavirus travel insurance.
While most countries have relaxed or lifted Covid requirements, it is still best to check the relevant destination page on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website to see if you require proof of vaccination.
Please contact your travel insurance provider directly, or check their policy wording for details of any coronavirus cover.
If you have an InsureandGo policy, you can read about our coronavirus travel insurance.
You should check the information for the country you’re visiting on the gov.uk website to see if you will need to wear a mask once you reach your destination.
1 – Unlimited emergency medical expenses available on Black policies.
2 – InsureandGo Annual survey 2022. 7,011 respondents
3 – InsureandGo Annual survey 2022. 6,986 respondents