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HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » Reviews by Travel Insurance Companies » Post Office Travel Insurance

Post Office Travel Insurance Review and Quotes

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Our articles are written by experts in their fields (finance, trading, insurance etc.) whose signatures you will see at the beginning and at the end of each article. They are also systematically reviewed and corrected before each publication, and updated regularly.

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It might be the least exciting thing about your journey. But travel insurance is a must-have when it comes to getting assistance from the other side of the world.

Are you aware of this and are here to know whether Post Office is the right company to go on holidays with?

In this definitive Post Office review, we will tell you everything you need to know about their travel insurance policies: coverage options, prices, contact details, cancellation or claim process and much more. Let’s dive in!

Is Post Office the best travel insurance for you?

Always just going for the cheapest travel insurance might not be the best option when it comes to getting assistance or a refund abroad.

At Safe, we strive to help any people travelling from the UK to get the best travel insurance to leave home with complete peace of mind. This is why we’ve dug into Post Office travel insurance policy booklet and attributed our own neutral rating based on five weighted criteria as shown below.

4,1 Safe overall rating for Post Office

Post Office travel insurance reviews by expert and consumers

To check if Post Office is the right travel insurance for you, you can use our free travel insurance comparison tool and get quotes from main travel insurance companies in a few seconds only. 100% anonymous and free.

Find the best travel insurance in just a few seconds!

What does Post Office travel insurance cover?

Post Office travel insurance offers different travel insurance covers to suit any traveller needs, whether you’re leaving for three days alone in Scotland or six months in Antarctica with your partner or whole family.

The insurance policies available at Post Office are open to families, groups, single parent families, etc.

Post Office single-trip and annual multi-trip travel insurances

You will find below the limits breakdown per level of cover for single and annual multi-trip insurance policies at Post Office:

Post Office backpacker travel insurance

Backpacker Travel Insurance Policy is available for travellers age 18 to 60 and it comes with the following benefits:

• Covers you for up to 18 months
• Up to £1,000 for cancellations or curtailment
• Up to £2 million for emergency medical expenses
• Up to £10,000 for personal accident cover
• Up to £1,000 for baggage cover
• Up to £250 for cash lost or stolen
• Up to £2 million for personal liability
• Up to £25,000 for legal expenses

Post Office winter sports travel insurancet

The winter sports travel insurance is usually an option that you can take on top of your single or annual multi-trip policy.

Winter Sports Cover is available at Post Office Travel Insurance across 3 levels of cover: Economy, Standard and Premier. It comes with the following benefits as standard:

• Up to £1,000 for ski equipment
• Up to £50 per day (total £500) to hire ski equipment
• Up to £400 for ski pack
• Up to £50 per day (total £500) in case the piste is closed
• Up to £350 if the piste is closed due to an avalanche.

What are the other travel insurance options available at Post Office?

Due to Brexit, some outbound flights from international airports might be delayed or cancelled. We would advise you to call Post Office before travelling and make sure you get the right compensation amount for your flight or journey if it is cancelled or delayed as well as for Schedule Airline Failure Cover.

How much is Post Office travel insurance?

You'll find below indicative quotes per level of cover at Post Office:

It is, however, quite difficult to give precise price ranges as Post Office travel insurance policy quotes will depend on a range of factors such as:

• Your age at the time of travelling
• The length of your stay
• Your trip destination (Europe, North America, Worldwide)
• The period you wish to be covered for (single trip, annual multi-trip, extension)
• If you need specific insurance (cruise, ski, backpackers, gadget cover)
• Your medical condition before travelling
• Who is travelling with you (on your own, as a couple, as a family).

Can I get travel insurance discounts or promo codes at Post Office?

They don't mention any discounts on their website.

Use our travel insurance comparison tool to be aware of latest promo codes and vouchers available at Post Office.

What else should I know about Post Office travel insurance?

What are the general exclusions at post office travel insurance.

To be eligible for a travel insurance policy at Post Office:

• You have reside in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man (and not spent more than 6 months abroad in the year prior to purchasing the policy)
• You will be asked to show your passport and a valid visa
• You have to enrol at Medicare offices
• You must contact their 24 hours Emergency Service before seeking private treatment if Medicare cannot do it.
• Be registered with a general practitioner in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

How do I get travel insurance quote from Post Office?

Nothing easier. Use our 100% online travel insurance comparison tool to compare all policies in just a few seconds, without giving any personal details. If Post Office is the right one for you, then just click on get quote and you'll be automatically directed through the company's sale channel.

Good to know

Shopping around while shopping for personal insurance and not auto-renewing is always the best way to get the best deal and benefit from new customers discounts.

How do I log in to Post Office website?

Through the customer portal which you can access through this link Post Office Login , you can get access to the following:

• You can create your account for free
• You can get access to your policy documents and download them wherever and whenever you please
• You can get access to purchase quotes and also edit them
• You also get access to exclusive customer deals.

Account Creation and Log In Process

• Before accessing the customer portal, you will need to create an account first. Information needed to create your customer portal account will include first and last name, postcode, date of birth, email and a password of your choice.
• To create you account, click on 'register now' and fill in the necessary information on the blank fields
• Once your account is created, you can easily log in to the customer portal by using your email and password.

How to claim at Post Office travel insurance?

There is only one way to make a claim and that is through calling the claims department.

How do I contact Post Office travel insurance?

Post office contact phone numbers, post office other contact details, how to cancel your annual post office travel insurance policy.

You will find below main information to cancel your travel insurance policy at Post Office:

Our opinion on Post Office travel insurance

Post Office Travel Insurance is offered by Post Office Management Services Limited, one of UK's largest retail network that has been serving the country for more than 370 years.

They offer a wide range of travel insurance products that is available across a large demographic. However, due to the low customer satisfaction rate on Trust Pilot, we would advise you to consider looking at other insurance companies such as World First and Alpha Travel Insurance.

Nishadh Mohammed is a seasoned news editor and financial writer, working with HelloSafe since May 2023. Nishadh has developed expertise in financial markets, insurance, and investment products, with a deep understanding of the Canadian financial landscape. He has honed his SEO skills and content marketing strategies while writing for Canadian publishing houses. Armed with a master's in Business Analytics and extensive journalistic experience, Nishadh uniquely combines data proficiency and thorough research to deliver comprehensive and accessible information.

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Post Office Travel Insurance

Post office travel insurance from as little as £7 for your trip. fanstasic low rate premium online.

Travel insurance from the Post Office provides high quality cover at really low prices. Choose from annual multi-trip one year travel insurance for travel to UK and International destinations. Single trip cover for short weekend breaks and single trips. The Post Office also provide winter sports travel insurance for skiing holidays and covers you for personal injury, stolen skiing equipment and much more benefits. Get cheap travel insurance today for your trip from the Post Office.

Post Office Overview

Sites you might find of interest:

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Travel Cover Advice from BIBA The British Insurance Brokers Association has lots of travel insurance advice here.

Post Office Travel Insurance contact details: Post Office, POL Customer Care, FREEPOST NAT18105, SUNDERLAND, SR3 3BR Phone Number: Web Site: www.postoffice.co.uk

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Post Office Travel Insurance – Everything You Need to Know

Written and researched by Michael Kays (Travel Insurance Expert) | Fact Checked by Danya Kristen (Insurance Agent).

We see your suitcase is packed and your passport is ready. But before you dash off to your dream destination, let’s talk about that non-negotiable travel buddy: insurance.

Not just any insurance, but Post Office Travel Insurance. Here’s everything you need to know.

In this article...

Post Office Travel Insurance: An Introduction

Post Office Travel Insurance isn’t a boring old postal service. It’s a lifeline for travelers, offering a safety net across the globe. It’s been awarded the ‘Best Travel Insurance Provider’ by the British Travel Awards for 12 consecutive years – pretty impressive, right?

Their policies are designed to cover various unexpected events during your journey, from medical emergencies to travel disruptions.

Recommended Plans

✅  Atlas America

Up to $2,000,000 of Overall Maximum Coverage, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19, Trip Interruption & Travel Delay.

✅  Safe Travels Comprehensive

Coverage for in-patient and out-patient medical accidents up to $1 Million, Coverage of acute episodes of pre-existing conditions, Coverage from 5 days to 364 days (about 12 months).

✅  Patriot America Platinum

Up to $8,000,000 limits, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Coinsurance for treatment received in the U.S. (100% within PPO Network), Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions covered.

Decoding the Types of Post Office Travel Insurance

Here’s the good news: Post Office Travel Insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all policy. They offer different types of cover to suit your unique travel needs. Here’s a quick run-through:

• Single Trip Insurance: Perfect for one-off adventures, this covers you for a single holiday or business trip.
• Annual Multi-Trip Insurance: If you’ve got a severe case of wanderlust and plan multiple trips in a year, this policy has got you covered.
• Backpacker Insurance: Designed for the intrepid globetrotter, this policy covers long trips and even working holidays.
• Over 50s Travel Insurance: Tailored for travelers over 50, this policy offers comprehensive cover and no upper age limit.
• Family Travel Insurance: A policy that protects the entire family under one umbrella. It often includes free cover for children.

The Perks and Protection: What’s Covered?

A key part of choosing your travel insurance is understanding the cover provided. Post Office Travel Insurance offers protection against:

• Medical Emergencies: From sudden illness to injury, your medical expenses are covered. This includes hospital fees, transport, and even a return journey if needed.
• Cancellation and Curtailment: If you have to cancel or shorten your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, you’re protected against any financial loss.
• Baggage Loss: Say goodbye to worries about lost luggage. If your baggage goes on an adventure of its own, the Post Office has got you covered.
• Travel Delays: Stuck at the airport due to delayed or cancelled flights? You’re eligible for compensation.
• Personal Liability: If you cause harm to someone or their property, the policy has got your back.

Remember, it’s crucial to read the policy document carefully to know exactly what’s covered.

Post Office Travel Insurance vs Private Travel Insurance: Comparison

Of course, the Post Office isn’t the only game in town when it comes to travel insurance.

There are plenty of private companies offering competitive policies. So how does Post Office Travel Insurance stack up against them? Let’s have a closer look.

Post Office Travel Insurance

Post Office Travel Insurance shines in its comprehensive coverage . It’s a solid choice for many travelers, thanks to its broad variety of plans , from single trips to annual multi-trips.

Here’s a snapshot of what makes it stand out:

• Range of Policies: With policies tailored to backpackers, over-50s, families, and frequent flyers, the Post Office caters to a wide demographic of travelers.
• Broad Coverage: They provide extensive coverage, including medical emergencies, cancellation, curtailment, lost baggage, and travel delays.
• Ease of Application: The application process is user-friendly and straightforward, with the ability to apply directly through their website.

Private Travel Insurance Companies

Private travel insurance companies, like World Nomads and Allianz Travel, bring their unique strengths to the table. Here’s what they offer:

• Specialist Coverage: Some private companies specialize in certain types of coverage. For example, World Nomads is renowned for its adventure travel insurance, covering over 200 adventure activities.
• Flexible Policies: Many private insurers offer the flexibility to extend your coverage or adjust your policy even after your journey has begun.
• Additional Benefits : Some private insurers offer extra perks. For example, Allianz Travel provides coverage for rental car damage or theft as part of their policies.

In the end, the best travel insurance for you will depend on your individual needs and travel plans. It’s important to closely examine each policy’s offerings, exclusions , and price before making a decision.

While Post Office Travel Insurance offers a one-stop-shop solution with policies for every type of traveler, private insurers may provide more specialized coverage or added flexibility.

Be sure to weigh your options carefully to choose the policy that’s the perfect fit for your journey.

Easy-Peasy Application Process

Applying for Post Office Travel Insurance is as breezy as a walk in the park. Simply hop onto their website, choose your policy, fill in your travel details, and hit apply. You’ll then receive a quote. If you’re happy with it, proceed to payment. Boom! You’re insured.

The Final Word

Post Office Travel Insurance is all about taking the worry out of your wanderlust, offering a safety net that lets you savor your adventures fully. And remember, always travel insured because no trip should be a gamble.

1. Is Post Office Travel Insurance good?

With numerous awards under its belt and a wide range of comprehensive policies, Post Office Travel Insurance is certainly a strong contender in the market. However, as with any insurance, ensure it fits your personal needs before purchasing.

2. How do I make a claim with Post Office Travel Insurance?

Making a claim with Post Office Travel Insurance is straightforward. You can make a claim online on their website, or call them on their claims line. Remember, always have your policy number and relevant documents handy when making a claim.

3. Can I get a refund if I don’t use my Post Office Travel Insurance?

If you cancel your Post Office Travel Insurance within 14 days of purchase and haven’t made a claim or started your trip, you can receive a full refund. After 14 days, the refund policy may vary.

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Post Office Travel Insurance: A Getting Started Guide from the Experts!

The Post Office is regarded as the largest retail network in the UK as well as the largest financial services chain that’s been there for more than 370 years. However, apart from that, the company also offers insurance products, one of which is the post office travel insurance.

In this article, we’re going to talk about everything you need to know which regard to this particular travel insurance. But before that, let’s have a look at the achievements of the Post Office regarding insurances.

What is the Post Office?

Post Office has been voted the “Best Travel Insurance Provider” for 9 straight years starting from 2006 to 2015. Apart from that, it also received the Silver award from the British Travel Awards in 2016 and 2017.

As a massive network, the Post Office offers a wide range of options when it comes to their insurance policies. One of them is the rudimentary budget cover through the Super Economy Travel Insurance. There’s also the Premier Plus policy which provides complete coverage.

Primary Insurance Policies Offered

There are three main types of travel insurance policies offered by the Post Office, namely annual multi-trip, backpacker travel cover, and single trip.

Let’s have a breakdown of each of these policies:

Single Trip

The single trip insurance will provide coverage depending on your age when you obtain your insurance policy. The Post Office website states that those who are below 71 will be covered 365 days per trip. Meanwhile, those who are 71-75 will be covered 90 days and individuals 76-85 are only covered for 31 days.

As the name implies, a single trip policy will cover for you if you plan to take a single trip in the near future.

Annual Multi-trip

The multi-trip policy allows you to spread your trip abroad using a voluntary add-on. You can receive coverage of around £10 million for a medical emergency. They also have a 24/7 medical emergency helpline available.

This policy is perfect if you plan to travel several times a year without having to go through the hassles of obtaining concealment every single time.

For the single and multi-trip policies, there are five different levels available.

Here’s a detail detailing these levels alongside other important details:

All of the levels come with a personal liability cover ranging from £1-3 million. However, the Super Economy comes with various extras like death, personal accident, personal money, hospital benefits, and passport cover.

Backpacker Travel

The backpacker travel insurance is designed for backpackers who are price aware. As such, the Post Office provides two coverage options for them: Economy and Super Economy.

The two policies will provide coverage for up to 18 months. Moreover, you can come back home 3 times within a span of seven days. However, you have to keep in mind that the coverage doesn’t apply if you’re in the UK.

This is often the best option if you plan an adventure trip as it covers you from sharks to safaris and more. The policy can be availed of by anyone between 18 and 60 years old. You can also avail of additional cover for business, cruise, golf, and winter sports and add any of them in the above policies but for an extra cost.

Other Policies Offered

Apart from the major insurance policies offered by the Post Office, there are also several other policies which are as follows:

This is perfect for individuals who plan to go on a golfing holiday . Through this policy, you can enjoy the following:

• Protection in case you can’t play due to injury or poor weather
• Coverage against injury personal liability cover and while playing
• Coverage for your golfing equipment against theft

Cruise Cover

If you plan to enjoy the luxury of a cruise, then this policy is for you. It protects you from any unforeseen risks that might come along with cruise holidays. It comes with the following features:

• Coverage for a delayed transport
• Coverage for damage or stolen evening dress
• Replacement of any lost or misplaced damaged

Winter Sports Cover

Winter sports do come with their own risks, but this policy will ensure that you can still have fun despite that. It comes with the following inclusions:

• 24/7 medical assistance
• Coverage for sports like ice skating and snowboarding
• Protection from any injuries
• Protection for a damaged or stolen equipment

Worldwide Cover

This policy ensures that you won’t suffer from any issues with your insurance when you go traveling around the world. It comes with the following features:

• Emergency repatriation
• 24/7 medical emergency helpline
• Replacement for lost or stolen documents
• Financial coverage for medical treatment in the event of injury or illness when traveling

Pre-Existing Medical Condition

Post Office’s coverage for a pre-existing medical condition ensures that you can get to have fun and enjoy life despite your condition. It includes the following features:

• Quick and easy repatriation
• Treatment monitoring
• Payment for any medical expenses while you’re traveling

Family Cover

This is the perfect policy if you plan to travel together with your policy. This will allow you to avoid any hassles that come with obtaining individual policies for each of your family members. It includes the following:

• Maximum of £10 million emergency medical coverage in the event of injury or illness while traveling
• Assistance during a vehicle breakdown missed departure or delayed public transport

Cost and Coverage

One of the main reasons why the Post Office travel insurance has managed to outdo most of its competitors in the market is its very cheap cost. In fact, it has the cheapest insurance quotes available on the market.

When it comes to coverage, Post Office covers all basic forms of coverage including property damage, comprehensive coverage, and bodily injury liability among others. However, you can also gain access to special kinds of coverages that are exclusive to Post Office travel insurance members.

These special coverages come in the form of emergency road service, rental reimbursement, and mechanical breakdown insurance.

Policy Exclusions

These are the general exclusions that apply to any of Post Office’s travel insurance policies:

• Claims due to war or act of terrorism
• Traveling for the purpose of receiving treatment overseas
• Traveling without heeding the advice of a medical professional
• Personal injury caused intentionally
• Taking part in an organized sports competition

Other Important Information about the Post Office Travel Insurance

• Apart from providing coverage for any personal injury or illness sustained while traveling abroad, the Post Office will also offer guidance, assistance, and advice regarding legal proceedings and obtaining proper compensation.
• When applying for any of their travel insurance policy, you can also choose to add an Excess Waiver. This will allow you to reduce your excess to zero, thereby removing the need to contribute to the cost of your claims. However, be prepared to spend an additional cost for this.
• Even though there are only a few travel insurance providers that cover business travel, the Post Office’s policy will provide coverage for business travel that can greatly help professionals abroad. This policy will provide coverage for emergency couriers, employee replacement, equipment hire, computer equipment, and business money. This is only optional.
• Not all optional cover types can be added to every policy type. Only the Cruise cover is applicable for the Premier and Premier Plus policies. Meanwhile, the Golf and Business cover is only applicable to Standard, Premier, and Premier Plus.
• Various holiday activities and sports will be covered by the Post Office under the Standard policy. However, riskier activities like sailing and jet skiing won’t be covered for any personal accident claims.

Are there any special policy rules for pregnant women who travel?

There are certain limitations for pregnant women who want to travel.

In line with the Complications of Pregnancy and Childbirth policy, coverage for pregnant women will only include the following:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Emergency Caesarean sections and medically necessary termination
• Gestational hypertension
• Hydatidiform mole
• Hyperemesis gravidarum
• Placental abruption
• Placenta praevia
• Pre-eclampsia
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Retained placenta membrane
• Stillbirths and miscarriage
• Premature births more than 8 weeks before the expected delivery date

Will the policy provide cover during a war or terrorist act?

Unfortunately, you won’t be covered for any terrorist act that doesn’t involve the use of chemical agents and nuclear weapons.

How many people are included in a family?

A family can either consist of a couple or a group consisting of up to 8 travelers.

It can also include a person with his/her partner, dependent children, and dependent grandchildren below 18 years of age. Keep in mind that you will have to pay the appropriate premium for this.

Wrapping Things Up

Post Office is one of the leading health insurance companies in the UK. With their wide range of travel insurance policies, you will be able to enjoy peace of mind as you go traveling into other countries.

The best part is, the policies offered by the Post Office are one of the most affordable options currently on the market.

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Help and support Travel Insurance and Coronavirus FAQs

Common questions about our coronavirus cover.

• Policies bought 31 March 2022 – 27 March 2024
• Covid-19 cover add-on bought 31 March 2022 – 27 March 2024
• Policies bought on or after 28 March 2024
• Trip disruption add-on bought on or after 28 March 2024

Cancelling or cutting short your trip

What cancellation cover is provided for covid-19 related incidents.

All Post Office Travel Insurance policies bought between 31 March 2022 and 27 March 2024 include cancellation cover in the following scenarios. 

• Within 14 days of the start of your trip, you test positive for Covid-19 and need to self-isolate. This is provided you didn’t buy the policy or book a trip after you tested positive for Covid-19 (or were awaiting the results of a test). A copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim.  Positive tests must be administered/witnessed by an independent authority, including the date of result. Photographic evidence of a self-administered test kit is not acceptable validation. Self-isolation must be mandated by a medical practitioner, the NHS or a UK government body 
• You’re certified as too ill to travel due to Covid-19 by a medical practitioner. This is provided you didn’t buy the policy or book a trip after you tested positive for Covid-19 (or were awaiting the results of a test). Confirmation from a medical practitioner that it was necessary to cancel the trip will be required when submitting your claim 

Cancellation cover is also provided if: 

• An immediate relative (1) OR your travelling companion OR someone you’re due to stay with is hospitalised or dies due to Covid-19.  This is provided they test positive within 14 days of your trip starting and you did not buy this policy after they tested positive or were awaiting their test results  
• You, a travelling companion, or the person you’re staying with are required by a medical practitioner, a government body or health authority to self-isolate due to Covid-19.   This is provided you/they test positive within 14 days of your trip starting, and you didn’t buy your policy or book a trip after they tested positive or while they were awaiting the results of their test  

A copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim.

Positive tests must be administered/witnessed by an independent authority, including the date of result. Photographic evidence of a self-administered test kit isn’t acceptable validation.

Which Covid-19 related scenarios are not covered for cancellation?

There’s no cover for cancellation in these circumstances. 

• The area where you live or where you’re departing from for your trip is locked down (UK government advice of local lockdowns) 
• The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises against travelling to your intended destination due to Covid-19 
• The government introduces compulsory quarantine for travellers coming back from your intended destination, and you no longer want to travel 
• You no longer want to travel because you’re concerned you may catch Covid-19 
• When self-isolation is not mandated by a medical practitioner, the NHS, or any UK government body 

In these scenarios we suggest you try to rearrange your trip. Please contact us to discuss altering your insurance policy to match any new dates. We can allow change in trip dates for single-trip policies providing you contact us before the original policy was due to start, up to 1 year from the original purchase date. If the destination or duration changes, you may need to pay an additional premium. We are unable to make changes to start or end dates to a single-trip policy once it has started or expired.

Other cancellation scenarios our policies don’t cover are: 

• Your GP advises you not to travel due to Covid-19 due to your existing medical conditions (unless your GP issues a certificate confirming that, following a medically approved test, you have contracted Covid-19 and advises you against travelling, within 14 days of your trip starting) 
• The travel/flight operator has cancelled your flight due to Covid-19. We suggest contacting your tour operator, airline, travel/service provider in the first instance  

Am I covered if I need to cut short my trip due to Covid-19 once it’s already started?

Cover is provided on all our travel insurance policies bought between 31 March 2022 and 27 March 2024 if:  

• You test positive for Covid-19 when you arrive at your destination and are not allowed to continue your trip and you are told to self-isolate by a local medical practitioner. If this happens, you can claim for unused travel and accommodation costs. Self-isolation must be required by a medical practitioner, health authority or government body 

While on your trip an immediate relative (1) dies from Covid-19 back in the UK. If this happens, we’ll pay for travel and accommodation costs you could not use

In both scenarios, a copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim. Positive tests must be administered/witnessed by an independent authority, including the date of result. Photographic evidence of a self-administered test kit is not acceptable validation. 

In both scenarios we’ll only cover unused travel and accommodation expenses, not the actual cost to return you back home. 

If you've bought a policy directly from Post Office (policy numbers starting with TC) including the optional Covid-19 cover upgrade, you'll have cover for other curtailment scenarios. 

What we do and don’t cover

Where can i travel to and will my insurance cover it.

Remember, your cover won't be valid if you travel to your destination when the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all travel there.  

For each individual country the FCDO will list if travel is permitted or not. We recommend checking the  latest foreign travel advice  regularly as from time to time it can change, sometimes at short notice.  

If the FCDO have advised to only undertake essential travel to a destination and your trip is not essential and you choose to travel, we’ll only cover a claim if the cause isn’t linked to the reason for the FCDO advice. This limitation applies even if you’ve bought our optional trip disruption upgrade. You may be able to travel with full cover if we authorise in writing that your trip is essential before you depart. Should you like to request this, please email  [email protected] 

If there's no such advice in place, your travel insurance should cover you for the trip as set out in the terms of your policy. 

My airline/tour operator/travel company/accommodation provider has cancelled my trip. Can I claim?

If your travel or accommodation providers cancel, please contact them first. If an airline or tour operator cancel your flight or trip, they must reimburse you or provide an alternative. If you’ve booked independently, some accommodation and car parking providers won’t give refunds. So, if you booked with a credit or bank card, contact your card issuer first to see if you’re covered. If you’re able to rearrange your travel plans and you contact us before your single-trip policy starts, we’ll happily transfer your single-trip cover to your new trip dates up to 12 months from your original policy purchase date. We are unable to make changes to start or end dates to a single-trip policy once it has started or expired.

What isn't covered by a standard Post Office Travel Insurance policy?

Policies bought between 31 March 2022 and 27 March 2024 provide some cover against the issues caused by coronavirus, and the optional upgrade provides cover for additional scenarios or claim situations. However, we wouldn’t provide cover in the following circumstances:  

• Travelling despite FDCO advice against ALL travel, or any government restrictions (including UK lockdowns)
• Changes in any advice from the FCDO or any local government where it was safe to travel to but is now being declared as unsafe and restrictions are again being put in place due to Covid-19 
• Not wanting to travel for fear of catching Covid-19 
• Costs that exceed the maximum benefit as per the level of cover you choose 
• If you bought your policy after receiving a positive coronavirus test result or while waiting for a coronavirus test result and your trip starts within 14 days 
• Claims made for any Covid tests or results 
• Providing written confirmation of a positive test, but the test was not taken by an independent authority. 
• Self isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government 
• Claims for additional accommodation and/or travel expenses when you’ve elected to self-isolate following a positive test, and self-isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government 

Other Covid-19 disruption scenarios

What if i’m delayed and miss my planned departure while waiting for a covid-19 test result.

There’s no cover for the impact of such delays on our travel insurance policies unless you bought our Covid-19 cover upgrade.

The cover this upgrade provides is limited to tests taken on the day of your booked departure and administered at your departure point. You need to be at the airport at least 4 hours before your scheduled departure for this cover to apply. 

What if the UK quarantine requirements for my destination change while I’m away?

There's no cover on our travel insurance unless you bought our Covid-19 cover upgrade. The upgrade provides cover if regulations for your destination change while you’re there and you’re now required to quarantine in a hotel, you can claim for unexpected costs of mandatory quarantine accommodation on your return to the UK. 

You can also claim if you’re now required to take Covid-19 tests to re-enter the UK that you weren’t liable for when you booked your trip or bought your policy.  You can claim up to the sum insured towards the costs of the unexpected quarantine and/or additional Covid-19 tests. This is providing no restrictions were already in place in the area where you live, or there was no Government warning prior to purchasing this policy, booking your trip or within 14 days prior to travelling.  

What if I need emergency medical treatment or transport back to the UK as a result of catching Covid-19?

All policies provide cover in the following scenarios for medical and repatriation costs incurred during your trip abroad:

• You fall ill with Covid-19 and are hospitalised. In this event, you can claim for any medical expenses you incur while abroad. You’ll need to provide a medical certificate, issued by a medical professional, confirming that, following a medically approved test, you had been diagnosed with Covid-19 which resulted in you being hospitalised. Please note that we do not have any vaccination requirements
• You fall ill and are hospitalised with Covid-19 and require a medical escort to help you home. If you do, we’ll pay to return you to the UK with a medical escort if deemed necessary by the local doctor and with the approval of our Assistance Helpline Medical Service

There’s no cover, for additional accommodation or repatriation, if you test positive for Covid-19 but aren’t admitted into hospital and don’t require medical treatment.

What if I test positive on my return journey and can’t re-enter the UK?

There's no cover for this as standard with these travel insurance policies, unless you've bought our Covid-19 cover upgrade.

With this optional additional cover, if while you’re away you, someone you’re travelling with or someone you’re staying with test positive for Covid-19 and you have to self-isolate, you'll have the reassurance of extra cover to reimburse you for expenses incurred up to the limits. 

The Covid-19 upgrade also offers protection in case the hotel you’ve pre-booked to stay in or the cruise ship you’re travelling on (but not the wider geographical area it’s in) is put into compulsory quarantine due to the virus. 

About the Covid-19 cover option

How is this different from the covid-19 cover post office travel insurance includes as standard.

Post Office Travel Insurance policies bought on or after the 31 March 2022 up to 27 March 2024 include a range of cover for disruption or difficulties relating to Covid-19. We’ve included this base layer of protection to help holidaymakers travel more confidently in the time of coronavirus.   Check what's covered as standard

This includes cancellation cover for a number of scenarios relating to Covid-19, reimbursing you for the missed part of your trip if you cut it short in the event that you test positive on your trip and self-isolation is required, and cover for medical and repatriation costs if your fall ill with the virus while away.

Everyone’s needs are different, though, so you may want the extra reassurance of additional protection over and above the standard cover, for other scenarios in which the virus might affect your travel plans.

The Covid-19 cover upgrade option provides cover for curtailment (cutting your trip short) in more scenarios than the standard cover, including if testing or quarantine requirements change for your return to the UK. It also provides additional protection in the event of you missing a scheduled departure or connection due to the virus in certain situations, such as a localised quarantine in your pre-booked accommodation. You'll find more details of these in the questions below and listed in the  policy wording .

Will my travel insurance and Covid-19 cover protect me wherever I go?

It’s important to check the  latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)  regularly. There’s no cover on our policies if the FCDO has current advice in place against all travel and where any of the UK governments – for  England ,  Scotland ,  Wales  or  Northern Ireland  – have implemented travel bans against travel within the UK or internationally. If the FCDO have advised to only undertake essential travel to a destination and your trip is not essential and you choose to travel, we’ll only cover a claim if the cause is not linked to the reason for the FCDO advice.

This limitation applies even if you’ve purchased an optional  trip disruption  or Covid-19 upgrade. You may be able to travel with full cover if we authorise in writing that your trip is essential before you depart. Should you like to request this, please email  [email protected]  

We’ve prepared a guide on  where you can go on holiday  that summarises and links out to official sources of advice on where you can travel to and you must do in order to go.

Does it matter if I am vaccinated?

Your vaccination status won't affect whether you can buy Post Office Travel Insurance or our policy add-ons like Covid-19 cover. What may be affected is where you can travel to or what is needed to return to the UK once you've been away. 

It's important to check the latest travel advice from  Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)  regularly.

What isn't covered by either a standard Post Office Travel Insurance policy or the Covid-19 cover upgrade?

• Travelling against advice of the FCDO where they state against ALL travel, or any government restrictions (including UK lockdowns)
• Changes in any advice from the FCDO or any local government where it was safe to travel to but is now being declared as unsafe and restrictions are again being put in place due to Covid-19
• Not wanting to travel for fear of catching Covid-19
• Costs that exceed the maximum benefit as per the level of cover you choose
• If you bought your policy after receiving a positive coronavirus test result or while waiting for a coronavirus test result and your trip starts within 14 days
• Claims made for any Covid tests or results
• Providing written confirmation of a positive test, but the test was not taken by an independent authority
• Self-isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government
• Claims for additional accommodation and/or travel expenses when you have elected to self-isolate following a positive test, and self-isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government

Curtailment, missed departure and changes in official guidance

What cover does the covid-19 cover upgrade offer if i cut short my trip due to covid-19 once it’s already started.

All our travel insurance policies bought between 31 March 2022 and 27 March 2024 onwards provide trip curtailment cover in some circumstances.  Check what’s covered as standard for details .

If you buy your policy directly from Post Office rather than through an aggregator site, you have the option to add the Covid-19 cover upgrade. This provides additional cover in the following scenarios.

• You’re delayed waiting for your Covid-19 test result at your outward departure point (airport/ferry/train terminal) and are unable to go on your trip. If this happens, you can claim unused travel and accommodation costs. If you test negative, please see the ‘Missed departure’ section. Tests must be taken at your departure point on the day your trip’s due to start, and you must arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before you scheduled departure
• Someone in your party has tested positive for Covid-19 and you are told to stay in your hotel room (self-isolate) for more than 24 hours by a local medical practitioner, health authority or government body. In this event, you are covered up to the sum insured for travel and accommodation costs you couldn’t use

In both scenarios, a copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim. Positive tests must be administered/witnessed by an independent authority, including the date of result. Photographic evidence of a self-administered test kit is not acceptable validation.

Please note we only cover your unused travel and accommodation expenses, not the actual cost to return you back home.

The Covid-19 cover option also provides curtailment cover if: 

• You wish to return home early when UK rules for your destination change to avoid having to quarantine away from home upon your return to the UK. In this case, you're covered for the unused accommodation costs plus any necessary additional travel and accommodation costs to get you home early when you cut short your trip before the quarantine restrictions in the UK come in to force. Where we pay for additional costs to return you home early, we will not pay for the cost of the original unused return flight. This is providing there was no warning by the UK government that your destination could be impacted by quarantine restrictions upon entry back into the UK 14 days prior to the start of your trip 
• Compulsory quarantine of your hotel or cruise ship by a medical practitioner, health authority or government body disrupts the rest of your planned trip. If you’re instructed that your localised accommodation has been put under quarantine, you're covered for travel and accommodation costs you could not use. This cover only applies to your immediate accommodation, not a mandatory quarantine applied to a wider geographical area around it

What’s not covered if I cut my trip short after it’s already started?

Our policies don’t provide cover for cutting short a trip in these circumstances, regardless of whether you have the Covid-19 optional upgrade:

• The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises against ALL travel to your destination during your trip and advise UK nationals to return to the UK. If this happens we suggest you contact your travel and accommodation providers to see if they can help get you back to the UK
• The area you’re staying is in lockdown on the instruction of local government or public health officials 
• You’re held in compulsory/mandatory quarantine upon your arrival at your destination
• While you’re on holiday there is a spike in local cases and you wish to cut short your holiday
• You have elected to self-isolate after a positive test result (where it has not been mandated by medical practitioner, health authority or government)

Am I covered for a missed departure due to Covid-19 while I'm on my trip?

There’s no cover for missed departure due to Covid-19 unless you have purchased the Covid-19 cover upgrade. If you buy the Covid-19 cover option along with your policy, you’re covered for missed departure in the following scenarios.

• If you arrive at the airport for your outbound flight, you're required to produce a negative test result before exiting the UK, and your test results are delayed meaning you miss your flight, your covered for travel and accommodation costs to get you to your destination, subject to the limit on your policy
• If you, a traveling companion or a person you are staying with test positive for Covid-19 and you miss your departure or connecting flight back to the UK because a local government, a medical practitioner or health authority instructs you to self-isolate for more than 24 hours you're covered for additional travel and accommodation costs up to the level of cover you have purchased
• A copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim. Positive tests must be administered/witnessed by an independent authority, including the date of result. Photographic evidence of a self-administered test kit is not acceptable validation
• You’re also covered if you miss your departure/connecting flight back to the UK due to your pre-booked accommodation being placed into a localised compulsory quarantine on the instruction of local government, medical practitioner or health authority.  We'll pay an additional daily benefit for each 24-hour period you're abroad beyond your original return date, up to 10 days. We'll need evidence of this in writing

There’s no cover if your travel or flight operator has cancelled a flight due to Covid-19. In this case, we suggest contacting your tour operator, airline, travel/service provider in the first instance for them to rearrange your return flight to get you back to the UK.

What if quarantine or testing requirements to re-enter the UK change while I’m away?

There is no cover if testing or quarantine rules change to re-enter the UK due to Covid-19, unless you have purchased the Covid-19 cover upgrade.

If UK regulations for your destination change while you’re there meaning you're required to quarantine in a hotel, you are covered for unexpected costs of mandatory quarantine accommodation on your return to the UK up to the sum insured.

There’s also cover (up to the sum insured) if the change means you're required to take Covid-19 tests to re-enter the UK that you weren’t liable for when you booked your trip or bought your policy.

This is providing no restrictions were already in place in the area where you live, or there was no Government warning prior to purchasing this policy, booking your trip or within 14 days prior to travelling.

There’s no cover in these situations for policies bought through aggregator websites.

All Post Office Travel Insurance policies bought on or after 28 March 2024 include cancellation cover in the following scenarios. 

• Within 14 days of the start of your trip, you test positive for Covid-19 and need to self-isolate.  This is provided you didn’t buy the policy or book a trip after you tested positive for Covid-19 (or were awaiting the results of a test). A copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim 
• Self-isolation must be mandated by a medical practitioner, the NHS or a UK government body
• You’re certified as too ill to travel due to Covid-19 by a medical practitioner.  This is provided you didn’t buy the policy or book a trip after you tested positive for Covid-19 (or were awaiting the results of a test). Confirmation from a medical practitioner that it was necessary to cancel the trip will be required when submitting your claim 
• You, a travelling companion, or the person you are staying with are required by a medical practitioner, a government body or health authority to self-isolate due to Covid-19. A copy of the positive test result will be required when submitting your claim.

There’s no cover for cancellation in these circumstances: 

• The area where you live or where you are departing from for your trip is locked down (UK Government advice of local lockdowns) 
• Your GP advises you not to travel due to Covid-19 due to your existing medical conditions (unless your GP issues a certificate confirming that, following a medically approved test, you have contracted Covid-19 and advise you against travelling, within 14 days of your trip starting) 
• The travel/flight operator has cancelled your flight due to Covid-19. We suggest contacting your tour operator, airline, travel/service provider in the first instance

If an immediate relative (1) dies from Covid-19 back in the UK while you’re on your trip, we’ll pay for travel and accommodation costs you could not use. Please note, we can’t cover the actual cost to return you back home.  If you've bought a policy including the optional  trip disruption upgrade (including Covid-19, terrorism, natural catastrophe and airspace disruption), you'll have cover for other curtailment scenarios.   

Our ' Where can I go on holiday? ' guide answers this question in more detail, with links to the most up to date sources of official guidance on where you can travel to and what's required of you if you do. This includes any requirements for Covid-19 testing and quarantine when visiting different destinations, and whether they're affected by your vaccination status. 

What isn't covered by a standard Post Office Travel Insurance policy for Covid-19?

Policies bought from 28 March 2024 provide some cover against the issues caused by coronavirus.

Our optional trip disruption upgrade provides cover for additional scenarios or claim situations.

However, we wouldn’t provide cover in the following circumstances:  

• Travelling against advice of the FCDO where they state against ALL travel, or any government restrictions (including UK lockdowns) 
• Providing written confirmation of a positive test, but the test was not taken by an independent authority 
• Self-isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government 
• Claims for additional accommodation and/or travel expenses when you’ve elected to self-isolate following a positive test, and self-isolation has not been mandated by a medical practitioner, health authority or government

There's no cover on our travel insurance but you can easily add it by selecting our  trip disruption upgrade . 

At the time of writing this, there are no entry requirements to enter the UK.  Should this change, there's no cover as standard on our travel insurance policies but you can easily add it by selecting our  trip disruption upgrade . 

The trip disruption upgrade also offers protection in case the hotel you’ve pre-booked to stay in or the cruise ship you’re travelling on (but not the wider geographical area it’s in) is put into compulsory quarantine due to the virus. 

What extra Covid-19 cover does the trip disruption cover provide?

If you bought your travel insurance on or after 28 March 2024 and added the trip disruption option , it provides extra cover for Covid-19 related disruption that’s not covered by standard policies.

Missing a scheduled departure’s covered if:

• You or someone you’re travelling or staying with tests positive for Covid-19 and you have to self-isolate (2)
• Your hotel or cruise ship (3) gets put into compulsory quarantine (2) due to Covid-19

It covers the unused part of your trip on your return if:

• You have to self-isolate and miss the rest of your trip (2) if someone you’re travelling or staying with tests positive
• Compulsory quarantine (2) of your hotel or cruise ship (3) prevents you completing the rest of your planned trip
• You return home early when UK rules for your destination change to avoid having to quarantine away from home (4)
• You have to self-isolate due to testing positive so miss the rest of your trip

And, if regulations for your destination change while you’re there, you can claim for:

• A contribution towards mandatory quarantine accommodation costs on your return to the UK
• Costs towards Covid-19 tests you weren’t liable for when you booked your trip or bought your policy – whichever you did last (5)

What if quarantine requirements change while I’m away?

The upgrade provides cover if regulations for your destination change while you’re there and you’re now required to quarantine in a hotel. You can claim for unexpected costs of mandatory quarantine accommodation on your return to the UK. 

You can also claim if you’re now required to take Covid-19 tests to re-enter the UK that you weren’t liable for when you booked your trip or bought your policy. 

You can claim up to the sum insured towards the costs of the unexpected quarantine and/or additional Covid-19 tests. This is providing no restrictions were already in place in the area where you live, or there was no Government warning prior to purchasing this policy, booking your trip or within 14 days prior to travelling.  

Are return flights covered?

If you add this optional trip disruption cover to your policy, the protection it provides in the event of airspace disruptions applies to both outbound and inbound flights. If you’re prevented from returning to the UK due to airspace closure at your destination airport, and the delay is longer than 24 hours, then you can make a claim there too.

What if I’ve taken off when disruption happens?

Imagine you’re stuck in the air, endlessly circling the airport because the runways are closed. Or you’re re-routed to a different airport and need to take an alternative means of returning home from the new destination due to airspace closure. In these instances, you may be able to claim for additional accommodation and travel expenses incurred.

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For emergency assistance, to make a claim, complaint or manage your policy online: Visit our travel insurance support page

For any questions about our cover not related to coronavirus: Visit our travel insurance FAQs page

(1) Immediate relative: Your mother, father, sister, brother, spouse, civil partner, fiancé/e, your children (including adopted and fostered), grandparent, grandchild, parent-in-law, daughter-in-law; sister-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, aunt, uncle, cousin, nephew, niece, step-parent, step-child, step-brother, step-sister or legal guardian. (2) By a medical practitioner, health authority or government body. (3) Cover only applies to your immediate accommodation, not a mandatory quarantine applied to a wider geographical area around it.  (4) Providing you cut short your trip and fly home before the quarantine restriction comes into force.  (5) There is no cover if the UK government changes the quarantine requirements before your trip starts. Additional Covid-19 cover is not applicable for trips taken solely within the UK.