Over 100 activities included at no extra cost on Direct Travel policies.
What is athletics?
Athletics covers track events such as sprinting, hurdles and relays, alongside field events including long jump, high jump, shot put and javelin. Road running, marathons and obstacle events may be treated as separate activities.
Can I get travel insurance for athletics?
Cover for recreational and amateur athletics can be available through Direct Travel.
Depending on the policy, athletics may be included as standard or available to add for an additional premium. Select the activity that most accurately matches your discipline and check whether training, recreational participation or your specific event is covered.
Things to remember:
- Choose the activity that most accurately matches your athletics discipline
- Check whether organised, competitive or timed events are excluded
- Follow the venue rules and instructions of coaches or event officials
- Use suitable footwear and any event-specific safety equipment
- Warm up properly, stay hydrated, and stop if you become injured or unwell
What can travel insurance help with?
If you are injured while taking part in insured athletics, emergency medical expenses and repatriation can be covered, subject to the terms and limits of your policy.
Your policy can also provide cover for cancelling or cutting short your trip for specific insured reasons. Personal liability may be included, depending on the policy selected, the event and the circumstances of the claim.
Athletics FAQs
Is athletics covered as standard?
It depends on the policy. Athletics may be included as standard or available to add for an additional premium. Select it when getting your quote and check that the correct activity appears on your policy documents.
Which athletics events can be covered?
Athletics can include track events such as sprinting, hurdles and relays, along with jumping and throwing events. Choose the activity that most accurately matches the discipline you plan to do.
Should I select athletics, track events or field events?
Select the most specific activity available. If you are taking part in a particular track or field discipline, choose the activity that matches it rather than relying on broader athletics cover.
Can I take part in an athletics competition?
Not necessarily. Some policies cover amateur athletics but exclude organised, competitive or timed events. Check the applicable Policy Wording before entering a competition.
Can medical expenses be covered if I am injured?
Emergency medical expenses can be covered if the correct athletics activity is included on your policy and the claim meets its terms and conditions.
Can I get cover if I have a medical condition?
Pre-existing medical conditions are considered separately from activity cover. Declare them when getting your quote, as cover is subject to medical screening and acceptance.
Cover is subject to the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of your policy. Check the applicable Policy Wording and your policy documents before taking part.
- UK - A strong tradition of world-class track and marathon events
- China - Rapidly growing athletics scene and modern stadiums
- Kenya - Renowned for distance running and high-altitude training camps
What to pack for an athletics trip
- Training and competition clothing
- Appropriate running shoes or event-specific footwear
- Hydration supplies and energy snacks
- Personal ID, insurance documents, and emergency contacts
- Basic first aid kit for minor injuries
Common athletics injuries and how insurance helps
Common injuries during athletics events may include:
- Muscle strains and ligament sprains
- Stress fractures or overuse injuries
- Dehydration, heat exhaustion, or cramping
Insurance helps cover emergency treatment, transport, and reimbursement for missed events due to injury.
Tips for safe and effective athletics participation
- Always warm up and cool down properly
- Stay hydrated and maintain proper nutrition
- Use proper technique and pacing for your event
- Follow safety guidelines and seek coaching when needed
