Over 100 activities included at no extra cost on Direct Travel policies.
What does driving abroad cover?
This activity covers ordinary leisure driving while you’re away, such as hiring a car, taking a road trip or using a vehicle to get around your destination. Depending on the policy, it can include driving a car, motorhome, motorbike, moped, scooter or van that you are licensed to drive in the UK.
Can I get travel insurance for driving abroad?
Yes. Ordinary leisure driving is included as standard on one of the policies offered through Direct Travel.
Select the relevant driving activity when getting your quote and check that it appears on your Policy Certificate or policy documents. You must hold the appropriate UK licence and follow the applicable seatbelt, helmet and local driving requirements.
Travel insurance can cover eligible emergency medical expenses if you’re injured in a road accident, but it does not replace motor, vehicle hire or breakdown insurance.
Things to remember:
- Arrange separate motor insurance
- Carry the correct licence
- Wear a seatbelt or helmet where required
- Quad biking, racing, rallies, and track days will need separate cover
What can travel insurance help with?
If you’re injured in a road accident while taking part in insured leisure driving, emergency medical expenses and repatriation can be covered, subject to the terms and limits of your policy.
Depending on the policy selected, cover may also be available for cancellation, curtailment and other travel-related problems. Personal Liability is not covered while using a motorised vehicle. Travel insurance also does not cover the vehicle, repairs, breakdowns, or recovery. Check the applicable Policy Wording.
Driving Abroad FAQs
Can travel insurance cover me while driving a car abroad?
Emergency medical expenses can be covered if you’re injured in an accident while completing insured leisure driving. The relevant driving activity must appear on your policy documents.
Do I need a valid UK driving licence?
Yes. You must hold the appropriate UK licence for the vehicle you plan to drive. You should also check whether your destination requires an International Driving Permit or any additional documents.
Do I still need motor insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance does not replace compulsory motor insurance. You must arrange suitable vehicle insurance that meets the legal requirements of the country where you will be driving.
Is a hire car covered against loss or damage?
No. This travel insurance activity does not cover loss of or damage to a hire car, motorhome or other vehicle. Check the insurance supplied by the hire company and arrange any additional vehicle or car hire excess cover you need.
Are breakdowns, repairs and vehicle recovery covered?
No. Travel insurance does not provide breakdown assistance or cover vehicle repairs, replacement parts, towing or recovery. Arrange suitable breakdown cover separately.
What rules apply to motorbikes, mopeds, and scooters?
You must be licensed to drive the vehicle in the UK and wear a helmet. You must also follow local laws and any engine-size or licensing conditions shown in the selected policy.
Do I have to wear a seatbelt?
Yes. You must wear a seatbelt when travelling in a motorised vehicle where one is available. This applies whether you are driving or travelling as a passenger.
Can emergency medical expenses be covered if I am a passenger?
Emergency medical expenses can be covered if you’re injured as a passenger and the claim meets the policy’s terms and conditions. You must wear a seatbelt where one is available or a helmet when travelling on a motorbike, moped or scooter.
Is Personal Liability covered while driving?
No. Personal Liability is not covered while driving, riding or otherwise using a motorised vehicle.
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 driving abroad.
