Coronavirus Travel Insurance

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted just how important it is to have the right protection in place when you travel. While emergency medical cover has always been at the heart of travel insurance, many people now want reassurance that COVID-19 (and other infectious diseases) are included.

With Direct Travel Insurance, you’re automatically covered for COVID-19 across our policies - there’s no need for additional 'enhanced' or 'pandemic' cover.

What cover is there for COVID-19?

Depending on your policy, you may be protected for:

1. Emergency medical treatment abroad - if you fall ill with COVID-19 while travelling, provided it is confirmed by a doctor.
2. Repatriation - bringing you home if it’s medically necessary.
3. Cancellation before your trip - if you or a travelling companion test positive and a doctor confirms you are not fit to travel.
4. Cutting your trip short (curtailment) - if you need to come home early due to a COVID-19 diagnosis affecting you or certain relatives.
5. Denied boarding or quarantine - if you’re ordered to isolate or refused travel because of suspected COVID-19.
6. Daily benefits - for hospitalisation or confinement abroad due to COVID-19.
7. Winter Sports extension - missed activities cover if you’re unable to ski or board due to illness.
8. Cruise extension - protection for missed shore excursions or cabin confinement linked to COVID-19.

What isn't covered?

It’s just as important to understand what isn’t covered. In line with most UK travel insurers, Direct Travel policies do not cover:

1. Cancellations due to government restrictions or FCDO advice against travel.
2. Losses from general lockdowns, border closures, or flight bans.
3. Claims based on a reluctance to travel (where no doctor has confirmed illness).

Check before you buy

The cover described above applies to Direct Travel Insurance policies. Other insurers we work with, such as Fit2Travel or Goodtogo, may vary in what they include. We strongly recommend reading the Policy Wordings carefully before purchase to make sure the cover is right for your trip.