We ranked travel insurance companies based on affordability, coverage quality, financial stability, and customer service. These seven providers offer the strongest combination of value and protection for UK and Ireland trips.
Best Travel Insurance for the UK and Ireland
With rates starting at $43, we found the best travel insurance companies for visiting the UK and Ireland. World Nomads leads with comprehensive coverage, while Tin Leg offers budget protection.
Find the best travel insurance for visiting the UK and Ireland below.
Updated: December 29, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
World Nomads ranks first with a 93 MoneyGeek score, offering comprehensive coverage and adventure sports protection ideal for Scottish Highlands and Irish countryside exploration.
Tin Leg provides the most affordable coverage starting at $43 for a one-week trip, delivering medical and evacuation protection without premium costs.
NHS and Irish healthcare bill overseas visitors for hospital admissions despite free emergency department access, making travel insurance critical for medical protection.
Best Travel Insurance Companies for the UK and Ireland
1 | World Nomads | 93 | Adventure travelers, comprehensive coverage | $95 |
2 | Generali Global Assistance | 92 | Medical coverage, seniors, pre-existing conditions | $73 |
3 | Allianz | 91 | Customer service, mobile app, 24/7 support | $98 |
4 | IMG | 91 | High coverage limits, diverse plan options | $76 |
5 | Travel Guard | 91 | Premium coverage, evacuation protection | $103 |
6 | BHTP | 90 | Mid-tier coverage, good value | $69 |
7 | Tin Leg | 89 | Budget travelers, lowest prices | $43 |
Best Overall for UK and Ireland Travelers
World Nomads
With a MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100, World Nomads combines extensive coverage with strong customer service and adventure sports protection. The company excels in claims handling with an 89 service score and provides robust medical coverage for remote areas like the Scottish Highlands. The Explorer plan covers up to $100,000 emergency medical and $300,000 medical evacuation, with adventure sports included in the Epic plan upgrade.
Best for: Travelers exploring beyond major cities, adventure seekers hiking in Ireland or Scotland, and those prioritizing coverage quality over cost.
Best for Medical Coverage
Generali Global Assistance
Generali earned 92 out of 100 overall with perfect 100/100 financial stability, making it the most secure choice for medical protection. The Standard plan costs just $73 while providing $50,000 medical coverage and $250,000 evacuation. Coverage extends up to $100,000 emergency medical and $250,000 evacuation, with pre-existing condition waivers available if you purchase within 24 hours of your initial trip deposit.
Best for: Travelers with pre-existing conditions, seniors, and anyone prioritizing medical coverage and financial security.
Best Customer Service
Allianz
Allianz achieved a perfect 100 out of 100 service score with 24/7 phone support, mobile app, live chat, and a full online claims portal. While more expensive than competitors, you'll get exceptional support throughout your trip. Plans include up to $100,000 medical, $500,000 evacuation, and a Cancel Anytime option (not traditional Cancel For Any Reason).
Best for: First-time international travelers, those who value accessible support, and travelers who prefer managing insurance through a mobile app.
Best for High Coverage Limits
IMG
IMG rated 91 out of 100, with the highest coverage score (95) among all providers. The LX plan offers up to $1,000,000 medical evacuation coverage, which is critical for remote Highland or Irish countryside travel where evacuation costs run highest. You'll get up to $100,000 emergency medical protection backed by excellent financial stability (100/100 rating).
Best for: Travelers visiting remote areas, those wanting maximum coverage limits, and travelers who need diverse plan options.
Best Premium Coverage
Travel Guard
Travel Guard's 91 overall score includes a near-perfect 98 service rating. The Deluxe plan provides premium protection with high limits across all categories and excellent claims handling. Plans cover up to $100,000 medical and $500,000 evacuation, with strong coverage across all benefit categories.
Best for: Travelers prioritizing maximum protection, those with expensive trips requiring high cancellation coverage, and travelers wanting premium evacuation limits.
Best Mid-Tier Value
BHTP
With a 90 out of 100 overall score, BHTP delivers an excellent 96 service score and strong financial stability (100/100). The ExactCare Value plan costs just $69 while providing solid coverage across categories. Protection includes up to $100,000 emergency medical and $250,000-$1,000,000 evacuation depending on your selected plan.
Best for: Travelers seeking balanced coverage without premium prices, those wanting good customer service at mid-tier cost.
Best Budget Option
Tin Leg
Tin Leg's Basic plan starts at just $43 for a one-week trip, making it the most affordable option we analyzed. Despite the low price, you'll get coverage including $25,000 medical and $100,000 evacuation. Medical coverage ranges from $25,000 to $100,000, with evacuation from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on your selected plan.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers on short city breaks in London, Dublin, or Edinburgh who need basic protection without premium features.
Cost of Travel Insurance for the UK and Ireland
Travel insurance for a one-week UK or Ireland trip costs between $43 and $291, depending on your provider and coverage level. Most travelers pay $65-$100 for mid-tier coverage with $50,000-$100,000 medical limits and full trip cancellation protection.
Average Costs by Provider
Based on a $2,500 trip cost, age 30 traveler, 7-day duration from California:
Tin Leg | $43-$68 | $82-$92 | $86-$118 |
BHTP | $69 | $90-$95 | $125 |
Generali | $73 | $86 | $107 |
IMG | $76-$78 | $91 | $171 |
World Nomads | $95 | $158 | $291 |
Allianz | $98 | $136 | $184 |
Travel Guard | $103 | $189 | $229 |
Insurance costs for UK and Ireland trips are identical. Both destinations fall in the same risk category for medical claims, trip delays, and baggage issues.
Cost by Trip Value
Insurance premiums scale with your trip cost because cancellation coverage must match your prepaid expenses. A $10,000 trip costs more to insure than a $2,500 trip since the insurer's potential payout increases.
$2,500 | $88 | $43-$291 |
$5,000 | $177 | $61-$393 |
$10,000 | $366 | $97-$835 |
Age Impact on Pricing
Travelers over 60 pay 40-60% more than younger travelers due to higher medical risk:
Example: $2,500 trip, 7 days
- Age 30: $69 (Nationwide Essential)
- Age 65: $100 (Nationwide Essential, 45% increase)
Seniors should compare multiple quotes, as pricing varies significantly between providers. IMG and Generali often offer competitive senior rates.
Key Coverage Types and Limits
Understanding what travel insurance covers helps you choose appropriate limits for UK and Ireland trips.
Emergency Medical | Hospital stays, surgery, ambulance, physician fees, prescriptions, emergency dental | $50,000-$100,000 |
Medical Evacuation | Air ambulance, medical escort, repatriation to U.S., return of remains | $250,000-$1,000,000 |
Trip Cancellation | Prepaid, non-refundable costs if you must cancel before departure | Up to 100% of trip cost |
Trip Interruption | Unused trip costs plus additional transportation if you must return early | Up to 150% of trip cost |
Travel Delays | Meals, accommodation, local transportation during extended delays | $100-$250/day (max $500-$2,500) |
Baggage Loss | Lost, stolen, or damaged belongings during trip | $500-$2,500 total |
Baggage Delay | Essential purchases while waiting for delayed luggage | $100-$500 |
Adventure Sports | Coverage for excluded activities like hiking, skiing, water sports | Varies; often requires upgrade |
Coverage notes:
- Medical coverage pays NHS and Irish healthcare charges that overseas visitors must pay
- Evacuation coverage transports you from remote areas like the Scottish Highlands or western Ireland to major hospitals
- Trip cancellation requires covered reasons (illness, injury, severe weather, family emergency)
- Cancel For Any Reason provides flexibility but requires early purchase and costs more
Do You Need Travel Insurance for the UK and Ireland?
Travel insurance isn't required for U.S. citizens entering the UK or Ireland, but provides financial protection against unexpected costs. Your decision depends on trip cost, travel dates, health status, and risk tolerance.
- Your trip costs exceed $2,000 in non-refundable expenses
- You're traveling during winter months (November-March) when storms disrupt UK/Irish airports
- You're 60 or older and want extensive medical coverage
- You're combining the UK and Ireland with other European destinations
- You're planning adventure activities in the Scottish Highlands or the Irish countryside
- You're booking 6+ months in advance
- Your trip costs under $500 total
- All expenses are refundable or changeable without penalties
- You're traveling for just 2-3 days on a weekend city break
- Your credit card provides complete travel protection
- You have excellent international health insurance covering overseas care
- You can absorb the financial loss if cancellation occurs
UK and Ireland Travel Risks
Weather disruptions: Winter storms (November-March) frequently disrupt UK and Irish airports, with December and January seeing the highest cancellation rates. Highland road closures in Scotland can trap travelers or prevent reaching destinations. Trip delay and interruption coverage helps manage weather-related costs.
Strike activity: UK rail and airline strikes create disruptions uncommon in the United States. Strikes are announced days in advance but can't be predicted months ahead. Trip interruption coverage reimburses additional transportation costs if strikes force alternative routes. Some policies exclude strikes, so review your policy terms.
Brexit healthcare impacts: The UK is no longer part of EU healthcare agreements. Verify your policy covers England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland separately from Ireland and EU countries. If combining UK/Ireland with mainland Europe travel, ensure your policy covers all destinations.
How to Get the Best Travel Insurance for the UK and Ireland
- 1Calculate Your Total Trip Cost
Add up all prepaid, non-refundable expenses:
- Round-trip flights
- Hotel reservations
- Prepaid tours and activities
- Event tickets (theater, sporting events, concerts)
- Train or rail passes
- Rental car prepayments
Purchase coverage equal to your total non-refundable costs. If you've paid $2,500 for flights and hotels, buy a policy covering at least $2,500 in trip cancellation.
- 2Compare Quotes From Multiple Providers
Get quotes from at least three companies to compare prices and coverage limits. Use your actual trip details for accurate pricing:
- Exact departure and return dates
- All travelers' ages (rates increase significantly after age 60)
- Total trip cost
- Specific destination (UK, Ireland, or both)
- Your home state (rates vary by location)
Compare not just prices but also medical limits, evacuation coverage, and policy exclusions.
- 3Choose Appropriate Coverage Levels
Medical coverage minimum: $50,000 The UK and Ireland have good healthcare infrastructure, but medical costs for Americans add up. A week-long hospital stay costs $3,500-$14,000. Emergency surgery runs higher.
Medical evacuation minimum: $250,000 Evacuation from remote areas like Scottish Highlands or western Ireland costs $50,000-$75,000 to Edinburgh or Dublin, plus another $50,000-$75,000 to the United States if needed.
Higher limits for seniors or pre-existing conditions: If you're over 65 or have health concerns, choose plans with $100,000 medical and $500,000-$1,000,000 evacuation coverage.
- 4Add Cancel For Any Reason if Booking Early
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage costs 40-60% more but provides flexibility. Purchase CFAR if:
- You're booking 6+ months in advance
- Your plans might change due to work or family
- You're uncomfortable with standard cancellation restrictions
- You want maximum trip flexibility
CFAR requirements:
- Purchase within 14-21 days of initial trip deposit
- Cancel at least 48 hours before departure
- Receive 50-75% reimbursement (percentage varies by provider)
Not all providers offer CFAR.
- 5Review Adventure Sports Coverage
Standard plans exclude many activities popular in the UK and Ireland:
- Hiking in Scottish Highlands
- Rock climbing
- Cycling tours
- Surfing in Ireland
- Skiing in Scotland
- Water sports
Verify specific activities are covered. "Adventure sports" definitions vary between providers.
- 6Buy Coverage Within 14-21 Days of Booking
Purchase insurance within this window to access:
- Pre-existing condition waivers: Coverage for existing medical conditions that would otherwise be excluded
- Cancel For Any Reason: Available only when purchased early
- Full trip coverage: Protection from booking date forward, not just purchase date forward
Travel Insurance for The UK and Ireland: FAQ
Does travel insurance cover NHS bills for Americans?
Yes. Emergency medical coverage reimburses NHS charges that overseas visitors must pay. While emergency department visits are free, any resulting hospital admission bills you at 150% of standard NHS rates.
What's the best travel insurance for seniors visiting the UK and Ireland?
Generali Global Assistance and IMG provide the strongest senior coverage with high medical limits ($100,000), medical evacuation up to $1,000,000, pre-existing condition waivers, and competitive senior pricing.
Does travel insurance cover rental car damage in Ireland?
Some policies include limited rental car damage coverage, but most don't provide full protection. Your options: travel insurance with CDW (rare), rental company's collision damage waiver (most expensive), credit card rental car coverage (check if valid in Ireland), or standalone rental car insurance (often cheapest).
Are pre-existing conditions covered for UK and Ireland travel?
Pre-existing conditions are covered if you purchase insurance within 14-21 days of initial trip deposit, purchase coverage for full trip cost, and are medically able to travel when purchasing. Generali requires purchase within 24 hours for the waiver. Without the waiver, pre-existing conditions are excluded.
Can I cancel my trip if I'm uncomfortable traveling?
Not under standard coverage. Standard trip cancellation requires covered reasons like illness or severe weather. Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage refunds 50-75% of trip costs for any reason, including general discomfort, news events, or change of plans. CFAR requires purchase within 14-21 days of initial deposit.
How We Chose the Best Travel Insurance for The UK and Ireland
We evaluated 13 travel insurance providers for UK and Ireland coverage using MoneyGeek's scoring methodology:
Affordability (40%): We collected quotes for UK and Ireland trips across multiple scenarios, varying trip costs ($2,500-$10,000), traveler ages (30 and 65), and durations (7-14 days). Lower premiums for comparable coverage scored higher.
Coverage Quality (30%): We analyzed policy benefits across seven categories: trip cancellation/interruption limits, emergency medical coverage, medical evacuation limits, baggage protection, trip delay benefits, and coverage breadth. Plans with higher limits and fewer exclusions scored higher.
Service & Claims (25%): We evaluated customer service accessibility (24/7 availability, phone/email/chat support, mobile apps) and claims experience through customer ratings and company responsiveness metrics.
Financial Stability (5%): We assessed each company's financial strength using AM Best ratings, prioritizing insurers with A- or higher ratings to ensure claims-paying ability.
Our final rankings combine these weighted scores to identify providers offering the best value, coverage, and service for UK and Ireland travelers.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research for insurance shoppers. His insights have been featured in CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.