direct line travel insurance excess

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What Is Excess In Travel Insurance

Published: December 18, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Kalie Scofield

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Introduction

Travel insurance is a crucial aspect of trip planning, offering financial protection and peace of mind in the face of unexpected events. However, understanding the various components of travel insurance, such as excess, is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing a policy. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the concept of excess in travel insurance, exploring its significance, functionality, and implications for travelers.

Excess, often referred to as a deductible in other insurance contexts, is a fundamental feature of travel insurance policies. It represents the portion of a claim that the policyholder is responsible for covering out of pocket. While the concept of excess may seem straightforward, its nuances and impact on insurance coverage merit a closer examination.

By gaining a deeper understanding of excess in travel insurance, travelers can navigate the intricacies of policy terms and conditions with confidence, ensuring that they select a plan that aligns with their unique needs and preferences. Throughout this article, we will unravel the intricacies of excess, shedding light on its mechanics, advantages, and potential drawbacks. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for effectively managing excess within the context of travel insurance, empowering travelers to make informed and strategic decisions when safeguarding their journeys.

Join us on this insightful journey as we demystify the concept of excess in travel insurance, equipping you with the knowledge and insights needed to optimize your insurance coverage and embark on your travels with confidence.

Understanding Excess in Travel Insurance

Excess in travel insurance represents the amount of money that a policyholder must contribute towards a claim before the insurance coverage comes into effect. It serves as a form of self-insurance, requiring travelers to share a portion of the financial risk with the insurer. When purchasing a travel insurance policy, individuals can typically choose the level of excess they are comfortable with, balancing higher excess amounts against lower premiums.

It is important to note that excess applies to each separate claim made, meaning that if multiple claims arise from a single incident, the excess will be applicable to each claim. Understanding the implications of excess is essential for travelers, as it directly influences the out-of-pocket expenses they may incur when seeking coverage for unforeseen events during their trips.

Moreover, excess can vary based on the type of claim. For instance, some policies may have different excess amounts for medical expenses, trip cancellations, or baggage loss. This nuanced approach underscores the importance of carefully reviewing policy details to ascertain the specific excess conditions for different claim categories.

By comprehending the role of excess in travel insurance, individuals can make informed decisions when comparing policy options and assessing their risk tolerance. While a higher excess may result in lower premium costs, it also entails a greater financial responsibility in the event of a claim. Conversely, a lower excess may lead to higher premiums but can offer more comprehensive coverage with reduced out-of-pocket expenses at the time of a claim.

As we delve deeper into the mechanics of excess in travel insurance, we will explore how this component interacts with various aspects of insurance coverage, shedding light on its implications for travelers seeking to protect their journeys and mitigate financial risks.

How Excess Works

Understanding how excess works in the context of travel insurance is essential for travelers aiming to grasp the practical implications of this component. When a covered event occurs during a trip, such as medical treatment abroad or the need to cancel travel plans due to unforeseen circumstances, the policyholder is required to pay the excess amount before the insurance coverage takes effect.

For instance, if a travel insurance policy has an excess of $200 and the traveler incurs medical expenses totaling $1,500, the policyholder would be responsible for paying the first $200, with the insurer covering the remaining $1,300. It is important to note that the excess is deducted from the total claim amount, and the insurance coverage applies to the remaining costs, up to the policy’s specified limits and coverage terms.

It is crucial for travelers to be mindful of the excess amount specified in their insurance policies, as this factor directly impacts the financial responsibility they assume when making a claim. By carefully evaluating their risk exposure and financial capabilities, individuals can select an excess level that aligns with their preferences and budget, striking a balance between upfront costs and potential claim expenses.

Furthermore, the application of excess may vary based on the nature of the claim. Different types of incidents, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or baggage loss, may have distinct excess amounts outlined in the policy. This nuanced approach underscores the importance of reviewing policy details to gain clarity on the specific excess conditions for various claim categories.

As we unravel the intricacies of how excess operates within travel insurance, we will delve into real-world scenarios and practical examples to illustrate its impact on travelers and the dynamics of insurance claims. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of how excess functions, individuals can navigate the complexities of travel insurance with confidence, ensuring that they are well-prepared to manage potential claim situations during their journeys.

Pros and Cons of Excess in Travel Insurance

Excess in travel insurance presents both advantages and considerations that travelers should carefully weigh when evaluating insurance policies. By examining the pros and cons of excess, individuals can make informed decisions that align with their unique needs and risk tolerance.

• Lower Premiums: Opting for a travel insurance policy with a higher excess can lead to reduced premium costs, making comprehensive coverage more affordable for travelers, especially those on a budget.
• Customized Coverage: The ability to choose the excess amount allows travelers to tailor their insurance policies to suit their financial preferences and risk tolerance, providing a sense of control over their coverage.
• Financial Flexibility: Incurring a higher excess in the event of a claim may be manageable for individuals with sufficient emergency funds or those willing to absorb a larger portion of the financial risk in exchange for lower ongoing insurance expenses.
• Upfront Costs: A higher excess requires travelers to allocate more funds upfront in the event of a claim, potentially impacting their immediate cash flow during an already stressful situation.
• Risk Exposure: While lower premiums may be appealing, a higher excess places a greater financial burden on the policyholder in the event of a claim, necessitating careful consideration of one’s ability to cover the excess amount when needed.
• Claim Limitations: Depending on the excess amount selected, travelers may find that certain smaller claims fall below the excess threshold, rendering them ineligible for coverage, which could impact the overall value of the insurance policy.

By weighing these factors, travelers can assess the trade-offs associated with excess in travel insurance and make informed choices that align with their financial circumstances and risk management preferences. Understanding the pros and cons of excess empowers individuals to select insurance policies that strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and comprehensive coverage, ensuring that they are adequately protected during their travels.

Tips for Managing Excess in Travel Insurance

Effectively managing excess in travel insurance is essential for travelers seeking to optimize their coverage while balancing financial considerations. By implementing strategic approaches to navigate the nuances of excess, individuals can make informed decisions and mitigate potential financial risks during their journeys.

Tip 1: Evaluate Your Risk Tolerance

Assess your comfort level with assuming financial responsibility in the event of a claim. Consider your ability to cover the excess amount and strike a balance between upfront costs and potential claim expenses based on your risk tolerance and financial circumstances.

Tip 2: Compare Excess Options

When exploring travel insurance policies, compare the excess amounts offered by different providers. Evaluate how varying excess levels impact premium costs and coverage terms to identify a balance that aligns with your preferences and budget.

Tip 3: Consider Your Travel Plans

Take into account the nature of your trip and potential risks associated with your destination. Assess the likelihood of needing to make a claim and tailor the excess amount based on the specific travel scenarios you anticipate.

Tip 4: Review Policy Inclusions

Thoroughly review the policy’s coverage inclusions and exclusions to understand how excess applies to different types of claims. Ensure that the excess amounts align with the potential expenses you may encounter during your travels.

Tip 5: Build an Emergency Fund

Consider setting aside an emergency fund to cover the excess amount in the event of a claim. Having a financial safety net can provide peace of mind and ensure that you are prepared to manage unexpected expenses without undue stress.

Tip 6: Seek Professional Advice

If you are uncertain about the appropriate excess level for your travel insurance, consider consulting with insurance professionals or financial advisors. Their expertise can help you navigate the decision-making process and select a policy that meets your needs.

By implementing these tips, travelers can proactively manage excess in their travel insurance, optimizing their coverage while aligning with their financial capabilities and risk management preferences. Strategic decision-making and thoughtful planning empower individuals to embark on their journeys with confidence, knowing that they are well-prepared to handle unexpected events while safeguarding their financial well-being.

As we conclude our exploration of excess in travel insurance, it becomes evident that this component plays a significant role in shaping the financial dynamics of insurance coverage for travelers. By understanding the intricacies of excess and its implications, individuals can make informed decisions when selecting travel insurance policies, ensuring that they strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and comprehensive protection.

Excess empowers travelers to customize their insurance coverage based on their risk tolerance and financial circumstances. The ability to choose an excess level that aligns with one’s preferences provides a sense of control and flexibility, allowing individuals to manage potential claim situations with confidence.

However, it is crucial for travelers to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of excess, weighing the trade-offs associated with higher or lower excess amounts. By doing so, individuals can align their insurance policies with their unique needs, travel plans, and budgetary considerations, optimizing their coverage while effectively managing financial risks.

Ultimately, the strategic management of excess in travel insurance involves thoughtful planning, thorough policy review, and an awareness of one’s risk exposure. By implementing the tips provided in this guide and seeking professional advice when needed, travelers can navigate the complexities of excess with confidence, ensuring that they are well-prepared to safeguard their journeys and financial well-being.

As you embark on your future travels, may this comprehensive understanding of excess in travel insurance serve as a valuable resource, empowering you to make informed decisions and embark on your journeys with peace of mind and financial security.

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Direct Line Travel Insurance Review

Everything you need to know before you buy travel insurance from Direct Line!

The experts say:

If you're looking for a no-nonsense travel insurance option, Direct Line's Single Trip policy is an obvious choice. With a Which? ranking of 17 out of 71 providers and a Policy score of 76%, it stands out as one of the top picks on the market. Its Covid Cover rating is Complete, meaning it covers 10000000 in medical expenses and also includes baggage cover up to 1500 and cancellation cover up to 5000 as standard. Plus, with just an excess payble of 75 on medical claims, you can rest assured that there won't be any nasty surprises. And with their Fairer Finance Rating of 4 stars, you can trust that Direct Line is the way to go!

What Direct Line customers are saying right now:

• 😃Efficient dealing with customers, timely and helpful.
• 😇Waived fees and gave refunds without any trouble.
• 🤩Faultless dealings with repair garages and courtesy cars.
• 😊Threats of increase in policy price or cancellation of policy avoided.
• 👍Highly customer orientated business.
• 😡 Awful customer service, long wait times and no response to complaints.
• 😠 Refusing to pay claims and pressuring customers to drop them.
• 🤬 Obstructive in helping pensioners, moving the goalposts and making threats of increasing policy prices or cancelling them.

Direct Line customer reviews summary

Direct Line travel insurance has been receiving mixed reviews, with some people praising their customer service and others finding them to be unhelpful. Many customers have found the company to be slow in responding to queries, while others have noted that they were quick to make refunds after cancelling policies. Prices appear to be rather steep and some people have faced obstacles when attempting to claim. On the whole, Direct Line travel insurance scores a 6/10 for its customer service and promptness in dealing with enquiries, though the cost of premiums may put some off.

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Reviews 3.9.

21,872 total

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Re-newed both cars & home insurance…

Re-newed both cars & home insurance with direct line after many years. Price has increased rather a lot but could have moved to another company for a little less but stayed as we are happy with direct line what is included and more contactable than most other companies. Call out with home insurance came next day.

Date of experience : 16 August 2024

I have multiple policy's with them

I have multiple policy's with them and because of this i get a discount on the very competitive price when it comes to renewing. They are always very helpful when you call. Their product knowledge is great, the call handlers are always friendly and chatty, there's nothing not to like. The only time I made a claim they were extremely efficient, supportive, helpful and quick to get everything sorted out. Very loyal customer!! 👏

The woman was so helpful my 5 stars…

The woman was so helpful my 5 stars rating is a for her the Customer Service she gave me. Not for the price Direct line charges now been with them a long time they put up the prices on house and my car so high I have stopped my car insurance with them. So being a loyal customer means nothing, you are just a number.

I absolutely hate the fact you…

I absolutely hate the fact you increased my proposed premium significantly but as soon as I queried it you immediately discounted it! This happened last year also. As I have 2 cars insured with you I expect better treatment in future otherwise I shall leave next year. Be warned

Date of experience : 15 August 2024

You can always easily contact them …

You can always easily contact them and they answer promptly. They always explain things clearly. Recently renewed car insurance, Managed to reduce quote by about £100 by showing I had visited comparison websites. Shame insurance companies cant give you the lower price in first place.

Date of experience : 31 July 2024

Reply from Direct Line

We appreciate your kind words and are glad to hear you find our customer service helpful and responsive. We strive to provide clear and concise explanations to ensure our customers understand their policies and options. Christy

My car was damaged at a school when the…

My car was damaged at a school when the electric gates closed without warning. DL repaired my car without it affecting my NCB due to a very good addition to the policy called ‘fair claim commitment’ as the accident wasn’t my fault. In a time where insurance companies are taking advantage, DL are excellent and nothing like the rest. 1st class job!!

Date of experience : 13 August 2024

We’re happy to see your amazing comments about your recent claim, Antony. Thanks for sharing.

Trouble free claim.

Not a major accident but still needed to make a claim. The process was so easy with no long complicated forms to fill in, no long phone calls just a short online form. The rest was taken care of by Direct Line and within two weeks both cars involved, mine and the third party’s, were delivered back completely without any fuss. Totally recommended.

Date of experience : 14 July 2024

We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with our claims process. It's great to know that you found it straightforward and efficient. We strive to make the claims process as smooth as possible for our customers.

Fantastic customer service

Fantastic customer service and product knowledge. Explained all the options so I could decide which was best foe me. Thank you

Third party claim experience

I'm not with Direct Line, but my car was hit by someone who is. Their teams have handled everything brilliantly - really quick to take responsibility (called me within 60 mins) and every single person (call centre, auto repairs, etc.) has been super helpful and friendly. They really have made things as easy as possible for me as the third party. I will now be considering switching to DL when my renewal comes up.

Date of experience : 01 August 2024

We appreciate your kind words and are delighted to hear about the positive experience you've had with our team. It's wonderful to know that our commitment to providing excellent customer service has been recognized. We're glad that we were able to make a difficult situation easier for you.

Great customer service

I've always liked dealing with Direct Line. Their telephone service is excellent and their staff always go the extra distance to make sure I'm 100% satisfied with the outcome of any enquiry.

Excellent claim experience

Just made my first claim and service received was excellent throughout. All staff were very helpful and repairs arranged very quickly. Even the hire car was arranged for me. I also had regular progress updates and my repairs were completed quicker than the original estimate. Very pleased

We are thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our claims process. It's wonderful to know that our team was able to provide you with such excellent service and support. We appreciate your kind words about the helpfulness of our staff, the promptness of the repairs, and the convenient arrangement of a hire car. We're also glad to hear that you received regular updates and that your repairs were completed ahead of schedule. We strive to provide our customers with the best possible experience, and your feedback is a testament to our commitment to excellence.

Modern Highway Bandits

I had the misfortune of being hit by a Dutch registered HGV on the M4 last October 2023. Not being at fault my claim was for excess refund and expenses incurred to new insurer for increased premiums having reported the incident as per the law. Case finally closed in my favour as non fault last month, I was refunded £100 excess from a total claim recovery of over £4000. They failed to refund my expenses!! Bandits!!!

Date of experience : 16 October 2023

Tried to increase my premium by 60%…

Tried to increase my premium by 60% over last year when no changes to my situation had occurred. I think this is unjustified and unacceptable as I also have Home Insurance with them and have made no claim on either. I have, however, always found them easy to contact and helpful to deal with..

More respect for customers

I received my renewal notice which was significantly higher than the previous 12 months. I carried out a comparison search the contacted Direct Line with my findings to see if the would match my comparison price. The agent did reduce my premium but not as low as my comparison price. I advised the agent that they were still higher but I would go away and think about it. I phoned again the next day and spoke with a different agent who reduced it even further to within £2.00 of my comparison price. Why can't Direct Line just provide there lowest premium initially to save the so called "valued customer" all this agrovation?

The staff and attention to detail when you make requests, anything is possible you just have to ask, and feel comfortable to be able to ask.

initial price HIKE of thirty percent

initial price HIKE of thirty percent my cost phone call to discuss - 15-20 minutes, too many questions before reaching a HUMAN being impossible to contact Direct Line by email - hopeless

Direct Line & Auger, unprofessional and unsafe.

Direct Line uses Auger as their claim company. Their engineer does not follow health and safety procedures. Avoid at all costs. Engineer on site checking manholes leaving them uncovered, being a potential risk of falling for myself as the property owner and also for members of the contractors team, all video recorded as evidence. Complaint made through Auger that has no effect, no managers assuming responsibilities or liability. The report os not signed by anybody, and bases the facts on "likely to have happened". Totally unprofessional. Since this is the company used by Direct Line to manage claims, I would recommend avoiding both. My case reference - 090351438 (Direct Line ref), Client: Direct Line, Auger ref: 174239.1.UCC - FA

Date of experience : 12 August 2024

I’ve left a link to our website below, where you can raise this as a complaint and find more information about our complaints processes. We have several ways to raise this, including an online complaint form available on the site. Once we’ve received your complaint, one of the team will be in touch to try and resolve this with you. ​ https://www.directline.com/complaints

Ease of renewing insurance policy. My policy price increased which I expected but it wasn’t too drastic so I decided to renew

We're pleased to see we made it easy for you Jackie, thanks for your review and renewing with us. Christy

People on the phone are fine but

People on the phone are fine; they are dealt a poor hand when their bosses keep hiking the prices up by hundreds of pounds. It’s not their fault they can’t justify the price increases imposed from above.

Thanks for taking the time to leave us a review, David. Alex

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What Does Travel Insurance Excess Mean?

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The excess on a travel insurance policy is not always as straightforward as it seems. For instance, the excess may differ according to the type of claim (e.g., lost baggage vs. delayed baggage ) and you may be required to pay more than one excess in some situations. We'll explain the nuances of a travel insurance excess so you understand how much risk you're taking when you sign up.

• The Excess is Different for Some Claims
• How Many Excesses Will I Pay?

An "excess" on travel insurance is defined as the amount you are responsible for paying toward each travel insurance claim you submit. For example, if the stated policy excess is £100 then you would pay the first £100 in the event of a valid trip cancellation claim and your insurance company would pay the rest, up to the Cancellation limit.

While this example is relatively straightforward, in some situations you may pay more than one excess or the excess may differ from the stated excess.

Paying A Different Excess for Some Types of Claims

Travel insurance policyholders pay a different excess for different types of claims. The stated excess on your policy is the amount you'll typically contribute towards cancellation, baggage and emergency medical claims.

However, for claims where the benefit is determined on a per hour or per day basis (e.g., delayed departure, delayed baggage, hospital benefit, etc.), there is typically no excess payment required. Personal accident, personal liability and legal assistance also usually have no excess. Similarly, if you've purchased a winter sports add on then claims for piste closure and avalanche often have no excess.

Additionally, there may be special situations where the excess is higher or lower than the stated excess. These fine print changes to the excess are sometimes to the benefit of the policyholder, and other times to the detriment. To give you an idea of these exceptions, here are some examples we've come across in the Policy Wording of various plans:

Lower Excess on a Lost Deposit: You may pay a lower excess if you are only claiming for a lost deposit in the event of trip cancellation. For example, Direct Line charges a £10 excess for each insured person claiming for a lost deposit (where they otherwise charge a £50 excess for annual, multi-trip cover and a £75 excess for single trip cover).

Higher Excess on Medical Claims for Volunteer Work: Those insured with Insure & Go or Travelinsurance.co.uk who injure themselves doing volunteer work will have their excess on emergency medical claims increased to £100, even if they've purchased an excess waiver.

Higher Excess on Riskier Activities: Those engaging in riskier activities such as skiing or glacier walking could be subject to a higher medical excess—be sure to check your policy details.

Lower Excess on Medical Claims with GHIC: Most travel insurers will waive the excess on emergency medical claims if you have presented a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or any other reciprocal healthcare arrangement to reduce the cost of your treatment while abroad. Terms vary by insurer but if you're travelling to Europe, this is yet another reason to carry your GHIC card with you.

How Many Excesses Will You Pay?

If something goes wrong on your holiday, you might get another bit of not-so-good news—depending on the circumstances, you might need to pay more than one excess when it comes time to claim.

Typically, travel insurance companies will apply the excess in one of two ways: one excess per insured person per incident, or one excess per insured person per incident per each section of the policy you claim under. For policies utilizing the second option (i.e., an excess per person, per incident, per section), you may pay more excesses and therefore receive less back from the insurance company for a valid claim.

For example, the theft of a rucksack containing a jacket, camera and cash would trigger claims under two sections of your policy: Personal Belongings and Baggage (for the bag, jacket and camera) and Personal Money (for the cash). If your policy imposes an excess per section then you'll pay two excesses—one for the Personal Belongings and Baggage claim and another for the Personal Money claim—even though it was just one incident. Assuming a standard excess of £50, here's what you'd pay in excess(es) under the two scenarios:

For another example of paying multiple excesses, take a family of four whose trip is cancelled due to unexpected emergency. As most policies apply an excess per person for cancellation, there would be four excesses applied—a family of four whose standard excess is £50 would therefore be required to pay the first £200 (4 x £50) of the cancellation claim.

By understanding how the excess works, you'll be better prepared to check the accuracy of insurance payouts should you ever need to claim.

Lower Excess on Premium Travel Insurance

Many travel insurance companies offer a range of plans, from budget to premium. You'll find that in many cases the premium plans have a lower excess, or no excess at all. When there is no excess, then the insurance company will compensate you for a valid claim up to the limit, without you having to contribute anything.

Those who don't want to pay an excess in the event of a claim might prefer the simplicity of a premium plan, despite the higher premium. Premium plans will typically sport higher limits and better features as well, all else equal.

What is an Excess Waiver on Travel Insurance?

By paying an extra premium, some plans include an excess waiver which will remove the excess from your policy. That means you won't need to pay an excess should you need to claim. An excess waiver can be handy for someone who wants a policy with no excess, but who doesn't want to pay up for a premium travel insurance plan.

Whether or not the excess waiver is worth it depends on the size of the extra premium required. Compare the extra premium to the size of the excess to help you decide—for instance, if an excess waiver costs almost as much as the excess to be waived, it may not be worth it, especially if you're a single traveller who won't get caught out on multiple, per-person excesses.

Changing the Excess to Increase or Decrease the Premium

Some travel insurance providers give you an option to choose your excess. When this option is available, choosing a higher excess should lower your premium. This is because a higher excess means you are taking on more risk, and the insurance company consequently has less risk exposure. Before going down that route, however, be sure you'd be comfortable paying the higher excess (per person, per incident, and possibly per section you claim under) and consider the amount you're saving in premium.

In contrast, some people prefer to choose a lower excess so they are better covered by the insurance company in the event of a claim—whether or not a lower excess is worth the inevitable higher premium is also a personal decision.

Final Thoughts

It's also worth noting that the excess on a travel insurance plan might be higher when purchased from a comparison site than direct from the insurer's website—a higher excess is one of the ways a comparison site is able to offer lower prices. Also, you might find a slightly lower excess on annual policies

Most travellers don't think much about how travel insurance works , until they claim. By understanding the nuances of a travel insurance excess you can better choose a travel insurance plan suited to your risk profile. Plus you'll be better prepared to understand the reimbursements in the event of a claim.

'No excess' travel insurance means you won't pay an excess if you need to claim (i.e., you won't be out of pocket, so long as your claim is valid and within the policy limits). Opting for a no excess travel insurance policy is typically more expensive so be sure to compare prices as a 'no excess' policy might not be worth the additional upfront cost. And read the fine print as there still may be an excess applied to certain claims.

An excess waiver on travel insurance is when you pay an upfront fee to waive the excess on a policy—essentially it means paying a fee or higher premium to get a 'zero excess' policy. With a zero excess policy, you aren't out of pocket if you need to claim. However there can be exceptions, that is circumstances in which you still need to pay an excess—so be sure to read the fine print. For example, the excess may still be payable on a medical screening.

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Direct Line Travel Insurance: Your Key to Secure and Seamless Journeys

Direct Line Travel Insurance is a trusted name in the industry, renowned for its commitment to providing comprehensive coverage and exceptional customer service. With a history of reliability, Direct Line has become a go-to choice for travellers seeking peace of mind during their journeys.

Table of Contents

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Read more:  Xcover Travel Insurance: Your Ultimate Safety Net

Importance of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not just an optional expense; it’s a safeguard against unexpected events that can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, having the right insurance ensures you’re protected financially and can focus on enjoying your travels.

1. Features of Direct Line Travel Insurance:

Coverage options:.

Medical Expenses

Direct Line covers a spectrum of medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and outpatient care. This ensures you receive necessary healthcare without worrying about excessive costs.

Trip Cancellation

Life is unpredictable, and so are travel plans. Direct Line’s trip cancellation coverage reimburses non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or family emergencies.

Lost or Stolen Belongings

Protect your belongings with Direct Line’s coverage for lost or stolen items. This includes valuable items such as passports, electronics, and luggage, providing reimbursement for the inconvenience caused.

Emergency Assistance

Direct Line goes beyond insurance by offering 24/7 emergency assistance. Whether you need medical advice, travel assistance, or emergency evacuation, their dedicated support team is just a call away.

Policy Customization:

Tailoring Coverage to Specific Travel Needs

Every traveller is unique, and so are their needs. Direct Line allows you to customize your coverage, ensuring you pay for what matters most to you, whether it’s adventure sports coverage or additional protection for valuable items.

Add-Ons and Extras:

Enhance your protection with optional add-ons and extras. These may include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, rental car protection, or even coverage for activities like scuba diving. Direct Line’s flexibility caters to the diverse needs of travellers.

2. Benefits of Choosing Direct Line:

Reputation and reliability.

Direct Line has earned its reputation through years of providing reliable and trustworthy services. Their commitment to transparency and fair dealings has made them a trusted choice for countless travellers.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Real experiences speak louder than promises. Positive customer reviews highlight Direct Line’s efficiency in handling claims, prompt customer support, and overall satisfaction. Hearing from other travellers can instil confidence in your choice.

Awards and Recognition

Direct Line’s excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. Multiple awards and industry recognition underscore their commitment to delivering top-notch travel insurance services. Recognition can serve as a testament to the company’s dedication to quality.

3. How to Purchase Direct Line Travel Insurance:

Online purchase process.

Direct Line’s online platform simplifies the purchase process. The user-friendly interface allows you to input your travel details, customize your coverage, and receive a quote promptly. The straightforward process ensures you get the protection you need without unnecessary hassle.

Customer Support and Assistance

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, Direct Line’s customer support is readily available. Whether you need clarification on coverage details or assistance with the application, their knowledgeable support team is just a phone call away.

4. Comparison with Other Travel Insurance Providers:

Highlighting unique selling points.

Direct Line stands out in the crowded travel insurance market. Unique selling points include their transparent pricing, customer-centric approach, and the ability to tailor coverage. Understanding these distinctions helps you make an informed decision.

Price Comparison

While price shouldn’t be the sole factor in choosing insurance, it’s a crucial consideration. Direct Line’s competitive pricing, coupled with its comprehensive coverage, positions it as a valuable choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Customer Satisfaction Ratings

Explore customer satisfaction ratings to gauge the overall experience of travellers with Direct Line. High satisfaction ratings indicate not just affordability but also the reliability and effectiveness of their services.

5. Tips for Making a Claim:

Step-by-step guide.

Filing a claim can be intimidating, but Direct Line provides a step-by-step guide to simplify the process. From documenting the incident to submitting necessary forms, the guide ensures you navigate the claims process with ease.

Document Requirements

Understanding what documents are required when making a claim is essential. Direct Line provides clarity on the necessary paperwork, ensuring you’re well-prepared and speeding up the claims approval process.

Customer Support during the Claim Process

Direct Line’s commitment to customer support extends to the claims process. Their dedicated team is there to assist you throughout, providing updates and guidance to alleviate any concerns during a stressful time.

6. Travel Insurance Industry Trends:

Overview of trends in travel insurance.

Stay informed about the latest trends in travel insurance. From evolving coverage options to advancements in digital services, Direct Line adapts to industry changes to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Direct Line’s Response to Industry Changes

Direct Line doesn’t just follow trends; it sets them. Discover how the company responds to industry changes, implementing innovations to stay ahead and provide enhanced services to its customers.

Clearing Up Misconceptions

Are there any hidden fees not mentioned in the pricing breakdown?

Direct Line is committed to transparency, and there are no hidden fees. All costs are clearly outlined.

Is travel insurance only for international trips?

No, Direct Line provides coverage for both domestic and international trips, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Is Direct Line Travel Insurance only for international trips?

Can I customize my coverage based on my specific travel requirements?

Yes, Direct Line provides flexibility, allowing you to tailor your coverage to match your unique circumstances.

What types of medical expenses are covered by Direct Line Travel Insurance?

Direct Line covers a range of medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and outpatient care.

How does Direct Line handle trip cancellations?

Direct Line’s trip cancellation coverage reimburses non-refundable expenses in case of unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or family emergencies.

What belongings are covered in case of loss or theft?

Direct Line’s coverage extends to lost or stolen items, including valuable items such as passports, electronics, and luggage.

How does Direct Line provide emergency assistance during travels?

Direct Line offers 24/7 emergency assistance, providing support for medical emergencies, travel assistance, and emergency evacuations.

Can I add coverage for specific activities, such as adventure sports?

Yes, Direct Line allows you to customize your coverage, including options for specific activities like adventure sports.

Is travel insurance necessary for short domestic trips?

Direct Line offers plans for various travel needs, including short domestic trips, ensuring comprehensive protection.

How quickly can I expect a response when filing a claim?

Direct Line aims for a swift and efficient claims process, with many customers reporting timely resolutions.

What additional services or add-ons does Direct Line offer?

Direct Line provides optional add-ons and extras, allowing you to tailor your policy with services like coverage for pre-existing medical conditions or rental car protection.

Can I purchase Direct Line Travel Insurance for a group of travellers?

Yes, Direct Line offers options for group travel insurance, ensuring all members are covered during their journey.

Are there discounts available for frequent travellers?

Direct Line may offer discounts for frequent travellers or specific promotions. Check their website or contact customer support for current offerings.

What sets Direct Line apart from other travel insurance providers?

Direct Line stands out with transparent pricing, a customer-centric approach, and the ability to tailor coverage to individual needs.

Is Direct Line Travel Insurance suitable for business trips?

Yes, Direct Line provides plans suitable for business trips, addressing specific needs such as trip cancellations or emergency medical coverage.

Direct Line Travel Insurance offers a comprehensive and flexible solution for your travel protection needs, backed by a stellar reputation, customer satisfaction, and industry recognition. As you plan your next adventure, consider the security and peace of mind that come with Direct Line Travel Insurance. Choose a partner that understands your unique needs and is committed to ensuring your journeys are memorable for all the right reasons.

For in-depth policy details and to explore coverage options, visit Direct Line’s official website.

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What cover do Direct Line travel insurance policies provide?

Direct Line is a relatively young company, having started in 1985 and began what became an online insurance revolution. While the company's travel insurance policies are not focused wholly on the over 50s, they offer a wide range of travel cover. Single trip, annual multi-trip cover and even backpack cover are available to different age groups. But do the policies provide value for money?

Direct Line travel insurance: FAQs

Does direct line travel insurance have additional cover for covid-19.

Yes. Overall, the travel insurance industry has been relatively quick in adapting both policies and premiums to consider Covid-19 and future pandemics. There is a separate section for Covid-19 cover on the Direct Line insurance website.

Do I need to declare any medical conditions?

Yes. If a policyholder fails to declare any medical conditions, this may result in curtailment of cover or the policy being cancelled and cover withdrawn. The vast majority of medical conditions are covered by Direct Line  travel insurance , but the company need to be aware of specific conditions.

How much does it cost to insure children?

If children travel with an insured person (an adult), who has a Direct Line  travel insurance policy , they will be covered at no extra cost. This relates to children under the age of 18.

How is Direct Line travel insurance protected?

As a financial services provider, Direct Line's and its parent group UK Insurance Limited are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority.

While the history of some established insurance companies goes back hundreds of years, Direct Line was born in 1985. Originally part of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group, the company was sold off and floated on the stock market as a stand-alone operation. As well as  travel insurance , traditional  home insurance  and  car insurance , Direct Line offers insurance for pets, businesses and landlords. Servicing more than 10 million customers, Direct Line insurance is the leading online insurance company. The group now includes an array of other companies such as Churchill Insurance.

There are several factors to consider and a certain degree of flexibility when it comes to Direct Line  travel insurance policies . We will now look at the detail you can expect to find in your policy documents, and the level of travel insurance cover offered.

Whether you're looking for single-trip, multi-trip, or specialist cover, or need assurance about pre-existing medical conditions, our panel of travel insurance providers has you covered. Click on your chosen provider below to get started.

• Some restrictions based on age

Am I eligible for Direct Line travel insurance cover?

Unlike  travel insurance companies focused on the over 50s market, like Saga , there are various conditions for Direct Line travel insurance. For example, there are some  age restrictions , and the level of insurance cover available varies with different policies.

The standard conditions when applying for Direct Line travel insurance are as follows:

• You must make the company aware of any pre-existing medical conditions
• Cover is only available to permanent residents of the UK
• Your trips must start and end in the UK
• Trips within the UK must be for at least two consecutive nights, pre-booked with commercial accommodation
• Cancellation cover will not be available if you suspect the trip might be cancelled at the time of booking

There are also some age-related conditions when looking to acquire Direct Line travel insurance:

• Those looking to take out an annual multi-trip policy must be under 75 years of age
• You must be less than 54 years of age for the backpack cover
• The single trip cover is reduced from the standard 90 days to 42 days for those aged 60 and above

Consequently, when comparing and contrasting  travel insurance for the over 50s , it is crucial to be aware of curtailment on some elements of cover. What might seem good value on the surface may look slightly different on further investigation!

Different types of Direct Line travel insurance

Three main types of travel insurance are available through Direct Line instead of the traditional annual multi-trip and single trip cover. In addition, travellers under 54 can apply for backpack cover when travelling the world. It is also important to note that you can add additional people to your travel insurance policy. Children travelling with an adult are covered as standard. Let's look at the three types of Direct Line travel insurance policies available, what they have to offer, and any restrictions or conditions to be aware of.

Annual multi-trip cover

Direct Line annual multi-trip cover is perfect for frequent travellers. Under this type of insurance policy, you will be afforded annual cover for trips up to 42 days in duration. Unfortunately, yearly multi-trip cover is only available to those under 75 years of age.

Annual multi-trip insurance policies offer comprehensive cover that includes:

In the event of end supplier failure, you will be covered for additional expenses not protected elsewhere in the policy documents. For example, children under 18 will be covered when travelling with an adult insured under a Direct Line  travel insurance policy .

It is also essential to be aware of specific exclusions not covered by the standard Direct Line travel insurance policy. Annual multi-trip cover includes:

• Personal belongings (optional extra)

While not standard, you can add personal belongings insurance to your policy to cover your bags and their contents. The maximum payout is £1,500 for valuables lost, stolen or damaged while travelling.

• Winter sports cover (optional extra)

You can take out additional winter sports insurance, which will cover your skiing or snowboarding equipment for theft and damage. You will also be covered for injuries and piste closures.

• One night UK trips

Annual multi-trip insurance only covers UK trips for a minimum of two consecutive nights, pre-booked in commercial accommodation.

• Non-UK residents

Direct Line travel insurance is only available to those permanently resident in the UK.

• One-way trips

This type of travel insurance does not cover one-way trips; they must be return trips, starting and ending in the UK.

• Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions

Only declared pre-existing medical conditions will be covered as part of your travel insurance policy. Any claim made on an undeclared medical condition will be rejected.

Single trip cover

Single trip insurance cover offers standard protection for one-off trips lasting up to 90 days anywhere in the world. If you're over 60, the duration of your trip is reduced to 42 days anywhere in the world.

The level of cover provided by a Direct Line single trip insurance policy is the same as that for annual multi-trip policies.

Backpack cover

Sometimes referred to as "Discoverer Trip" cover, Direct Line backpack travel insurance cover is available to those under 54 for trips lasting 3 to 18 months. The specifics of backpack travel insurance cover are as follows:

You are also covered for end supplier failure, where costs have not been protected elsewhere under your policy. Children travelling with an adult insured under a Direct Line travel insurance policy will also be covered.

There are also some additional exemptions. Due to the nature of "backpacking trips", you will not be covered for an early end to your trip. Consequently, you will not be able to claim if you are forced to abandon your journey or change your travel arrangements for whatever reason.

Am I covered for Covid-19 with Direct Line travel insurance?

Unfortunately, we are likely to experience many Covid-19 spikes in different areas of the world in the short to medium-term. Consequently, Direct Line has made several changes to its policies. From 5 October 2021, all Direct Line travel insurance policies cover Covid-19 and other pandemics related to bookings made but yet to take and future trips.

There is cover in place for trips cancelled as a consequence of:

• You, a party in your travelling group, or person you're planning to stay with, having to quarantine or self-isolate either in the UK or abroad
• You, or any insured person, travelling companion or a close relative being diagnosed with Covid-19 or another pandemic disease
• The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advising against all but essential travel to your holiday destination within 28 days of departure - however, this advice must not have been in place when the holiday was booked or Direct Line travel insurance was acquired
• Covid-19 or another pandemic diseases, resulting in pre-booked/prepaid accommodation not being available or restrictions in the surrounding area

You will also be covered if forced to cut your trip short due to:

• A change in the FCDO advice, which you were not aware of when you travelled
• A change in circumstances, such as a lockdown, affecting your pre-booked accommodation because of Covid-19 or a pandemic - you must not have been aware of this advice when you travelled

Last but not least, there is also emergency medical cover for overseas expenses when diagnosed with coronavirus or another pandemic disease while on your trip.

While consumer attention is on Covid-19, Direct Line is referencing pandemics, in general, in its policy documents. We will all need to consider potential pandemics in the future concerning travel plans and life in general.

Standard features of Direct Line travel insurance policies

While Direct Line travel insurance policies are relatively flexible and can be tailored to your specific requirements, there are some standard features. Therefore, it is essential to check with each type of policy to see which features are included:

Cancellation cover

There is cancellation cover up to a maximum of £5,000 per trip. Valid if you are forced to cancel due to illness, unemployment or another unexpected issue.

Medical emergency cover

While the headline figure of £10 million for medical expenses insurance has caught the attention of many consumers, there is more to consider. In addition, medical emergency cover will pay up to £2,500 for a loved one or friend to travel and stay with you while undergoing treatment. There is also a daily allowance of £25 for phone calls, transport and food.

Personal liability cover

Suppose you're found legally liable for an incident resulting in physical injury, death, accidental loss or damage to property. In that case, there is personal liability cover up to a maximum of £2 million. This is crucial as the associated costs can vary widely in different countries.

Legal expenses and a 24-hour helpline

While there is advice available 24/7, the legal cost cover up to £50,000 can prove helpful. This may be used to claim damages or compensation for injury, illness, death or a dispute about an agreement relating to your journey.

If you are arrested overseas, there is cover of up to £250 for the first meeting with a local solicitor.

Abandoned journeys

If you experience a delay of at least 12 hours and have to abandon your journey, you will be paid up to a maximum of £5,000.

Delayed or missed departure

If your departure is delayed, you will receive up to £200 per person or up to £600 for a missed departure. This element is reduced to a maximum of £200 for UK-only trips.

Children's insurance cover

All children under 18 will be covered if travelling with an adult insured under a Direct Line travel insurance policy. This will also take in organised activities such as snorkelling, beach games, swimming, and other events supervised by adults.

Personal accident

If you are injured due to an accident, where no third party is liable, there is a maximum of £10,000 payment if this results in your death. The figure is reduced to £1,500 for those under 18 travelling with an adult with a Direct Line travel insurance policy. Loss of sight or loss of a limb will lead to a maximum £10,000 payout and up to £25,000 if you cannot work after two years.

Lost or stolen passport

Losing your passport, for whatever reason, can be extremely daunting, more so when in a foreign land. Consequently, Direct Line travel insurance includes up to £500 for any extra travel/accommodation expenses incurred while waiting for replacement documentation.

Disaster cover

If pre-booked accommodation, or the surrounding area, has been impacted by a natural disaster, you are covered for extra travel and additional accommodation expenses up to £1,000. This is because you may decide to continue your trip or return to the UK. Natural disasters could include fires, explosions, earthquakes, tidal waves, avalanches, hurricanes, medical epidemics or a pandemic, and more.

Delayed personal belongings

There's nothing worse than losing your belongings, be it via your airline or a third-party travel provider. If the return of your belongings is delayed by more than 12 hours, you would be eligible for up to £200 to replace any personal belongings you need to buy.

Cost of Direct Line travel insurance policies

It is difficult to calculate an "average" Direct Line travel insurance premium because there are so many variables, including:

• Destination
• Type of policy
• Additional extras
• Medical conditions
• Excess payments

As detailed above, some of the policies have age restrictions, while  Saga , focusing specifically on over 50s, have no such conditions. On the plus side, you will see introductory offers on the Direct Line insurance website from time to time. One of the more common offers is a 25% discount off annual multi-trip travel insurance cover, which is certainly worth considering!

Does Direct Line travel insurance offer value for money?

It isn't easy to compare Direct Line travel insurance with the likes of Saga , which is focused solely on the over 50s market. That said, there are several options available to reduce your Direct Line travel insurance premiums, such as reducing the excess and taking advantage of online offers. In addition, the standard cover on Direct Line travel insurance policies is both flexible and comprehensive. The key is to ensure that the travel insurance package you purchase is moulded around your particular requirements.

There may also be options to buy pet insurance, home insurance and other Direct Line products alongside your travel insurance, which may provide a discount.

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in August 2024

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

If you don't have sufficient travel insurance coverage via your credit card , you can supplement your policies with third-party plans.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers.

Top credit cards with travel insurance

Methodology

Best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

» Jump to the best cards with travel insurance

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Offers direct billing.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Earn 5 free nights at an IHG property after $4k in spend (each night valued at up to 60k points).

Buy Car Hire Excess Insurance TODAY!

Protect yourself against the cost of excess on a hire car overseas.

Three different levels of cover available from just £0.12 / €0.14 / $0.16 per day.

As well as car rental excess insurance we also protect against:

• Towing costs
• Admin and handling fees
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• Misfuelling
• Serious injuries

And more depending on the cover selected.

Get your quote now!

What is car hire excess insurance.

Renting a vehicle is a popular way to get around whilst abroad. With car hire insurance included in most packages, you can jet off and pick up a vehicle from the airport hassle-free. However, in the event of an accident, you can feel a real sting when paying the excess fee.

If you do not double-check before you hire, excess costs can be as high as £2000. To protect yourself, excess insurance cover is the perfect solution to give you peace of mind. Direct Car Hire Excess can provide you with an affordable policy to ensure that if you have to pay excess abroad, you won’t be out of pocket. Making a claim with us is easy and stress-free due to our online excess insurance claims portal.

We provide European cover as well as Worldwide cover in both single and multi-trip plans – our annual cover starts at just £0.12 / €0.14 / $0.16 per day! *Actual conversion rates may vary depending on the specific date and time of the transaction.

Why choose us for car rental excess insurance?

Direct Car Hire Excess offer policies to holidaymakers, business jet setters and nomadic travellers all over the planet. From Toronto to Timbuktu, and beyond, there is nobody we can’t help protect when it comes to excess fees when renting a vehicle overseas. Our knowledge and experience mean our cover is second to none, leaving our customers free to enjoy hitting the open roads whilst abroad. If anything happens, Direct Car Hire Excess is here to help you immediately. You can claim easily online or our team of friendly advisors are just a quick telephone call away.

Car Hire Insurance Excess Cover Packages

What do we offer?

Car hire excess insurance isn’t compulsory. However, if you have an accident in a rented vehicle overseas you will be expected to pay the excess charge, which can be anything from £500 to over £2000 depending on the company. Typically, many holidaymakers and travellers feel they have no other choice but to accept these high charges when wanting to drive overseas. With cover from Direct Car Hire Excess you are protected from these high excess fees and you can claim online easily.

Instead of settling and paying extortionate excess charges, you can save yourself stress by taking out car hire excess insurance cover before you travel. From just £0.12 / €0.14 / $0.16 per day, and with a variety of different cover levels to choose from, you can select what works best for you.

Cover can include the following, depending on the package you pick:

• Towing costs • Tyre cover • Admin and handling fees • Car key loss • Misfuelling • Possessions • Serious injuries • Road rage and carjacking • In-country rental

Daily Car Hire Excess Insurance

Navigating the roads of a new city can be challenging, and any mishap, minor or major, could lead to unexpected excess charges. Our daily car hire excess insurance is specifically designed to provide flexible, short-term coverage for these unforeseen circumstances. This option is perfect for those who aren’t frequent travellers but still want to be protected during their car hire period. It’s all about giving you confidence and security on the road, no matter where your travels may take you.

Car Hire Excess FAQs

• ONLY available to those between 21 – 84 years of age
• The policy must cover the entire car rental period
• The cover will not include trips outside of your stated area
• Annual policies are a maximum of 60 days per hire
• Single trip maximum is 180 days per hire

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• Is there an excess?

An excess is an initial sum of money which a traveller pays towards an overall claim.

There are excesses applicable under most sections of our policies, and the amount varies depending on the insurer and level of cover you have chosen. We also offer the option to waive the excess, so you would be able to make a claim for the total amount of financial loss.

Please note that the excess outlined for each section of your policy applies per person, per section, and per claim. For example - if your excess is £100 and there are two travellers on the policy, to make a claim under one section for both travellers, the excess deducted would be £200. Should both travellers also have to claim under another section, this would be another £200 deduction.

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• What if the staff from the airline I am travelling with go on strike or threaten industrial action?
• What is the single article limit?
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COST-EFFECTIVE OPTIONAL TRAVEL PROTECTION

Travel Insured International recommends travel protection for all cruise reservations.  It can reimburse up to 100% of your cruise cost if you have to cancel your reservation for a covered reason such as illness, injury, death in family or other unanticipated occurrences as specified in the plan.  It also includes coverage for travel delay, trip interruption, lost baggage and medical costs during your cruise. Additional terms apply. In addition, travel protection provides you with 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance services to help you resolve issues such as lost or stolen passports, translation services, emergency cash advances and a myriad of other invaluable services while you are away from home on your cruise vacation.

See below for a summary of plan benefits and costs. Insurance benefits are subject to limitations and exclusions, including an exclusion for pre-existing conditions. However, you may be eligible for a Waiver of the Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion if you purchase travel protection at the time of booking or within 21 days thereafter (see the summary of plan benefits for more details). This optional plan can be purchased directly through the TRAVEL INSURED INTERNATIONAL WEBSITE by CLICKING HERE .

Direct Line Cruises is not an insurer and does not have any liability for any coverage amounts under this plan.     As a travel retailer, Direct Line Cruises is not qualified or authorized to answer technical questions about the benefits, exclusions or conditions of any of the insurance coverages in the plan or to evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance coverage.  Direct Line Cruises and its employees may offer and disseminate travel insurance under the direction of Travel Insured International.  You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this plan with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. If you have any questions about this coverage, contact Travel Insured at 866-684-0218.  Purchasing a travel protection plan is not required in order to purchase any other products or services offered by Direct Line Cruises.

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Direct Line home insurance review: Policies compared with competitors

Direct Line home insurance review – buildings, contents and combined policies compared

Founded in 1985, Direct Line began with only one product – car insurance – but today it provides a broad range of products including car, travel, pet, cycling and home insurance . It was the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel for communication, and this is still the best way to contact its team today. 

Direct Line offers three levels of cover: Home Insurance, Home Insurance Plus and Select Premier. For its Plus and Select Premier policies most types of cover are included as standard, and the basic Home Insurance policy can be customised with optional extras.

90-second read

Direct Line home insurance products include buildings , contents and a combined policy for all three levels of its cover. For its Plus and Select Premier policies, most types of cover are included as standard, and for its basic Home Insurance policy, you can add optional extras, allowing for bespoke cover. 

Our researchers found both the customer service and claims processes to be simple and straightforward. Making a claim via the online forms proved easy to navigate and was dealt with in a timely manner. However, its Virtual Assistant chat service was not all that helpful and could only answer very basic questions, so we found it best to call the company instead. 

Our experts compared the provider with six other leading home insurance companies, analysing customer feedback, products and claims processes. The conclusion is that while Direct Line is more expensive than some of its competitors, its products are good value for money and its customer service was helpful. 

Our product review and research process

Our researchers and writers are dedicated to bringing you accurate and up-to-date information so you can make an informed decision when it comes to comparing and buying home insurance.

We will only endorse home insurance products after hundreds of hours of research, policy comparisons and mystery shopping, and after taking into account verified customer feedback and reviews, and the opinions of industry experts.

To write our articles, we’ve compared (and continue to compare) hundreds of insurance policies from dozens of the UK’s insurers – big and small. We focus our research on:

• Cost and value for money
• The level of coverage offered (and what’s not covered as standard)
• Customer service and ease of making a claim

All of our articles are verified by industry experts, including regulatory compliance specialists, and the policy data is verified by the insurance providers themselves, so you can be assured that our content is as accurate and up to date as possible.

Even after all that, we would still recommend that you don’t just take our word for it – you should compare quotes to get the best deal for you and your home. To find out more about our methodology, read our article on how we cover home insurance companies .

Direct Line home insurance policy comparison

Direct Line offers three levels of policies – Home Insurance, Home Insurance Plus and Select Premier – with each one including contents, buildings, or combined cover. It also has a comprehensive range of optional extras that can be added to the standard Home Insurance cover. Any added optional extras will increase your premium, but it does allow your quote to be personalised to suit individual requirements.

What does Direct Line home insurance cover as standard?

Direct Line offers a wide range and a good level of cover across its three policy levels as standard – with options to customise each policy level by adding optional extras. Its maximum cover allowance is greater than other providers we’ve reviewed, even for its basic policy, including cover for alternative accommodation, buildings repair and contents insurance. 

Although we did discover that the company’s quotes were considerably higher than other insurers, its three levels of cover also proved to be good value for money.

Optional extras

Direct Line offers a broad range of cover across all of its policies and, for the standard Home Insurance policy, there are several types of cover that are available as optional extras. However, if you find yourself adding a large number of optional extras, it’s worth checking if the Home Insurance Plus and Select Premier policies would be more cost effective. 

What’s in the small print?

Whenever you take out any type of insurance, it’s sensible to read the small print. The small print is where you’ll find general exclusions, policy limits and other important information. 

Where are you covered?

Direct Line policies cover Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. 

With personal possessions cover – included as standard for Home Insurance Plus and Select Premier policies but also available as an add-on for the standard Home Insurance policy – your items are covered for up to 60 days abroad, providing they are kept with you or in a secure place. 

Policy exclusions

Exclusions are specific types of damages or loss that are not covered by your buildings or contents insurance. Our researchers have analysed Direct Line’s small print, and listed below are some instances that are not covered by its policies: 

• Normal wear and tear
• Maintenance and routine decoration
• Loss or damage as a result of the lack of maintenance or routine decoration
• Reduction in value
• Damage caused by rot, fungus, woodworm, beetles, moths, insects, or vermin
• The cost of repairing or replacing any item following a mechanical or electrical fault or breakdown, or where it has failed or stopped working despite there being no apparent damage (note this does not apply to home emergencies)
• Damage caused by cleaning, dyeing, renovating, altering, re-styling, repairing, or restoring an item
• Tearing, scratching, chewing, vomiting, fouling, urinating, or denting by any domestic animal
• Any damage caused gradually
• Faulty workmanship, faulty design, or the use of faulty materials
• Items held or used for business purposes, except those listed as business equipment in the policy definitions
• Any drop in the market value of your home caused by rebuilding or repairing damage to your buildings
• Any loss, damage, or legal liability caused, or allowed to be caused, by the deliberate, wilful or malicious act of you or any paying guest or tenant
• Any loss, damage, or legal liability resulting from the illegal acts of you or any paying guest or tenant

What are the excesses and no claims discounts for Direct Line home insurance?

Home insurance excess is a pre-arranged amount that you must pay when you make a claim. The compulsory excess can be deducted from the claim or settled separately. Home insurance excesses are formed of two parts: compulsory and voluntary. The compulsory amount is set by the insurance provider, and the voluntary is set by you, based on how much you could afford to contribute in the event of a claim. 

Setting a higher voluntary excess should lower your premiums, but remember that you need to be able to afford the voluntary excess should you need to make a claim. 

Compulsory excesses 

• Standard excess: Direct Line’s standard excess is £100, but you can choose to increase your standard excess – by doing so it will see you paying smaller home insurance premiums
• Escape of water: £450 compulsory excess that you’ll pay in the event of a burst pipe or water leak if you make a claim
• Subsidence: £1,000 compulsory excess that you’ll pay as a result of subsidence damage if you make a claim  

No claims discount 

Home insurance providers may offer a no-claims discount if customers have made no claims over the course of a year, and this can accumulate for every consecutive year – with providers offering between five and nine years, according to our research. 

Our researchers found any information regarding Direct Line’s no-claims discount was not available on its website or through its Virtual Assistant chat service. Upon calling the customer service team, we discovered the company does offer a no-claims discount, but this would be assessed on a case-by-case basis and the company accepts no-claims discount documents from previous insurers – at the time of the call, this could accumulate over five years.

How to make a claim on your Direct Line home insurance policy

A claim with Direct Line can be done by filling out an online form or by calling 0345 246 8412. If you have an emergency and have home emergency cover, there’s a different online notification form.

Online claims process

For new claims, customers can complete an online claims form. If you are in contact about an existing claim, then Direct Line recommends calling its claims phone line. 

Step 1: To make a claim, you’ll need to log in to your online account. You will need your policy number and other personal information to hand. 

Step 2: You’ll be asked if your property is secure and if you have access to essential facilities – if the answer is no, you’re advised to call the claims phone line. 

Step 3: Provide details relating to your claim, as well as the date the event happened. 

Step 4: Once your claim has been submitted, you should receive a text message within one hour. 

Step 5: Your claim will be deployed to the relevant personnel, who will then contact you to arrange a suitable appointment time. 

Phone claims process 

Step 1: For non-emergencies, call 0345 246 8412. For emergencies, fill out the emergency notification form.

Step 2: The recorded message will ask a series of questions, so it’s best to have any information for your policy to hand.

Step 3: A recorded voice will ask why you are calling and you’ll need to best describe this in just a few words. 

Step 4: Once through to the next step, you’ll be asked a series of questions, including if the policy is in your name, policy number, and what type of home emergency claim you are making. 

Step 5: You’ll then be informed that you have joined a queue to speak to a member of the customer service team. Our researchers’ call was answered after a few minutes of waiting in the queue.  

Online emergency notification form

Step 1: Fill out your personal information, as well as your policy number.

Step 2: Select what type of emergency claim you are making.

Step 3: Wait for Direct Line to contact you about the next steps for your emergency claim.

Direct Line phone numbers

Claim number: 0345 246 8412

Customer service number: 0345 246 3564

Lines open:

• Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm 
• Saturday: 9am to 5pm
• Sunday: Closed

Outside of office hours number: 0345 878 5081

Direct Line’s customer service

Direct Line has a UK-based call centre, which is contactable during office hours; there’s a separate phone line for customers to contact outside of those hours. Both phone lines have automated services that are interactive voice response enabled. Our researchers found this to be very helpful and preferred the option of being able to voice what their call was regarding as opposed to selecting pre-recorded options.

The help lines are also accessible for people with communication difficulties. It offers a Typetalk service – to use the service, prefix the number 18001 before the number you wish to dial. There is also a sign language service that is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Customers can locate the service on the insurer’s homepage. 

Our researchers found the phone service was quick and easy, and in just a few minutes they were able to speak to friendly and knowledgeable customer personnel. 

Unfortunately, Direct Line does not have a downloadable app for its home insurance, unlike some other providers we have reviewed. However, logging in to your account is quick, easy and simple through the website, and you will find all of the information you need available. 

Customers can also contact the company via its Virtual Assistant chat. Our researchers put this to the test and found it was quick to respond and could answer some of our queries. However, it could not answer all of our questions and had no information regarding the no-claims discount (which also isn’t listed on the website).  

How do customers rate Direct Line?

Direct Line receives a Trustpilot score of 3.9 out of five, with over 11,800 reviews. Five-star reviews make up 63 per cent of the total, while 21 per cent are one-star reviews. It should, however, be noted that its Trustpilot score also includes its other insurance products.  

Many reviews mention how quick the customer service team were to respond to requests and that Direct Line’s personnel were friendly and helpful. However, several customers express dissatisfaction with the claim service. 

“The fact that I could talk to someone [is great]. At 70+, the internet isn’t easy, but it is fine if you are using computers every day. I’m not. Having said that, the three times I logged on and entered our details, it was the Banks verification process that got in the way, which is why I had to go down the telephone [route] anyway. [It’s] brilliant; a smooth and stress-free [process]. The member of staff was very good, effective and efficient.”

• Ian B, via Trustpilot

“I found it simple to complete the forms to swap to Direct Line for my household insurance using my mobile. It was not the same with my existing insurers when trying to cancel. I felt like strangling the voice that kept saying they did not understand what I was [asking for]. You had to use particular words. When on the third attempt, I got through to a lovely gentleman, no problem.”

• Beryl Crabbe, via Trustpilot

“Making a simple small claim for storm damage causing two or three roof tiles to come off is a nightmare. The company deliberately makes delays to process the claim. [It’s been] almost a month now and I still have no idea how long it will take. Roof tiles are not classed as an emergency.”

• Mr Rai, via Trustpilot

How do others rate Direct Line?

Defaqto is designed to help consumers, financial advisors and institutions make informed decisions on products and services. Its researchers conduct consumer research and meet with industry experts to provide in-depth ratings and unbiased information. 

Defaqto awards Direct Line home insurance policies: 

★★★★★   Direct Line Home Insurance

★★★★★  Direct Line Home Insurance Plus

★★★★   Direct Line Select Premier

How does Direct Line compare?

Direct Line offers three levels of cover: Home Insurance, Home Insurance Plus and Select Premier, all of which offer contents, buildings and combined home insurance packages. The company’s Home Insurance policy has a good level of cover, and with its Plus and Select Premier policies, a lot of the add-ons are already included as standard. 

Our experts compared six other companies to Direct Line. We found there were several other home insurance providers that also offer three levels of cover, including Admiral and LV , which provide contents, buildings and combined packages for each level, just like Direct Line. 

Comparing all three providers’ Defaqto scores, Direct Line scores notably higher, with five stars for its Home Insurance and Plus policies and four stars for its Select Premier policy. Admiral and LV score three stars for one policy each and five stars for two policies. 

The company’s 3.9 Trustpilot rating is one of the lowest among the six providers compared. Policy Expert’s 4.7 rating is the highest (though it does not offer a combined package), but customers have rated it highly for its customer service and policy cover. Aviva’s 4.5 rating is also one of the highest, and it scores five stars from Defaqto for both of its home insurance policies. 

Our researchers also found Direct Line was one of the more expensive home insurance providers. We found quotes were higher than some other providers, and customers also pointed this out in their Trustpilot reviews. With that being said, the company offers a lot of cover as standard in its Plus and Select Premier policies, so we do think it is worth the price.

Independent Advisor’s verdict

Direct Line’s home insurance has three levels of cover, with all of them providing contents, buildings and a combined policy. When we compared this to other insurers, it was clear the company offers a broad range of cover. In addition, the level of cover offered as standard is more than some of its competitors.

For the most part, our researchers found the company’s website was user-friendly and clearly displayed policy documents and any available optional add-ons. However, there were a few important pieces of information missing, which we were able to clarify when calling the customer service team to enquire.

Its phone line customer service can’t be faulted, whether it’s for making a claim or a general enquiry.

Although the insurer only receives a 3.9 out of five rating on Trustpilot, it should be noted that most of its customer reviews are five stars. This rating also includes all of its other insurance products. When analysed by Defaqto’s experts, Direct Line received four- and five-star ratings for its home insurance policies. 

Our verdict is that Direct Line offers a wide range of home insurance policies with an above-average level of cover. It is one of the more expensive options on the market, but its policies are good value for money. 

Rachel Sadler

Rachel is a seasoned writer who has been producing online and print content for seven years. 

As a home tech expert for Independent Advisor , Rachel researches and writes buying guides and reviews, helping consumers navigate the realms of broadband and home security gadgets. She also covers home tech for The Federation of Master Builders , where she reviews and tests home security devices. 

She started as a news and lifestyle journalist in Hong Kong reporting on island-wide news stories, food and drink and the city’s events. She’s written for editorial platforms Sassy Hong Kong , Localiiz and Bay Media. While in Hong Kong she attended PR events, interviewed local talent and project-managed photoshoots. 

Rachel holds a BA in English Language and Creative Writing and is committed to simplifying tech jargon and producing unbiased reviews.

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