Hitting your 80s doesn’t mean putting the brakes on adventure. In fact, for many, it’s quite the opposite. With more time to explore and fewer responsibilities tying you down, now’s often the perfect moment to enjoy the trips you’ve dreamed about – whether that’s a sun-soaked cruise, visiting family across the globe, or finally setting foot in a bucket-list destination.
But with age comes a bit more responsibility when it comes to travel prep – and top of the list? Travel insurance that’s built for you.
Insurance in your 80s isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about making sure you can travel with confidence, knowing you’ve got the right support if things go wrong. So here’s your guide to choosing the right travel insurance for over 80s and why it matters now more than ever.
Why Travel Insurance Matters More in Your 80s
Let’s be honest – travelling when you’re 25 is very different to travelling when you’re 85. And that’s not a bad thing. But it does mean you need a bit more backup in place. Here’s why:
Health Becomes a Bigger Factor
Even if you feel fit as a fiddle, the truth is that health risks do increase with age. A minor fall, a flare-up of an existing condition, or something completely unexpected can happen while you’re away – and dealing with it abroad can quickly become expensive. Especially in places like the United States or Australia, where hospital bills can hit thousands in a heartbeat.
With the right insurance in place, you’re not left footing the bill. Medical emergencies, hospital stays, ambulance fees, or even being flown home for treatment (known as repatriation) can all be covered.
Life Can Be Unpredictable
Sometimes things just don’t go to plan. You might need to cancel a trip last minute due to illness – yours or a family member’s – or your flight gets grounded by a strike or a sudden change in weather. These things happen, but having a policy that includes cancellation and disruption cover means you don’t lose out financially.
Lost Luggage? Not Just an Inconvenience
If your suitcase goes missing or ends up in another country, it’s frustrating for anyone – but it can be even more stressful if it contains essential medication, specialist footwear, or equipment. Travel insurance can help you replace lost items quickly so you’re not left without the things you need.
What to Look for in Travel Insurance for Over 80s
Not all policies are created equal. So, what should you be looking for as an older traveller?
1. Robust Medical Cover
This should be your top priority. Look for policies with a high limit for emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays, outpatient care, and repatriation if needed. Some also offer 24/7 helplines, which can be incredibly reassuring when something happens in a country where you don’t speak the language.
2. Cover for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Be honest about your health when applying. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, or heart disease are all very common over 80 – and many insurers, including us at Brunel, can cover them. The key is transparency: if you don’t declare it, you might not be covered when you need it most.
We work with a range of specialist providers who don’t shy away from pre-existing conditions and won’t penalise you for living a full life.
3. Cancellation and Curtailment
This is particularly important if you’re booking expensive or non-refundable trips. If you have to cancel or cut a trip short due to illness, bereavement, or other personal emergencies, cancellation cover can help you recoup those costs.
4. Delays and Disruptions
No one enjoys spending hours in an airport, let alone paying out of pocket for unexpected overnight stays or rearranged flights. With the right policy, you’re protected if delays force you to extend your trip or make alternative plans.
5. Cover for Valuables and Personal Items
If you travel with medication, mobility aids, hearing aids, or glasses, make sure these are covered.
Check the single-item limit, too – if your suitcase contents exceed the standard cap, you may want to increase it.
Single Trip vs Annual Multi-Trip Insurance: What’s Right for You?
The type of policy you choose depends on how often you travel. Here’s a breakdown:
Single Trip Insurance
Best if you’re heading off just once or twice a year. Maybe you’re planning a cruise, a holiday with friends, or a visit to family abroad. A single trip policy is flexible, affordable, and tailored specifically to the length and destination of that one journey. It’s a great pick if each trip is unique or you prefer to take things one adventure at a time.
Annual Multi-Trip Insurance
If you travel regularly – say you spend part of the year abroad or enjoy several getaways a year – then an annual policy could save time and money. You’re covered for multiple trips under one plan, often up to 31 or 45 days per trip, depending on the insurer.
Optional Extras Worth Considering
Every trip is different – and your insurance can be too. Here are a few add-ons you might want to include:
- Cruise Cover: If your itinerary involves a cruise, check that you’re protected for things like missed ports, cabin confinement, or ship-based medical emergencies.
- Activity Cover: Planning to play a bit of golf? Maybe some gentle hiking or excursions? Activity add-ons make sure your hobbies are covered, too.
- Gadget Cover: If you’re taking tablets, hearing devices, or smartphones, gadget cover protects against theft or accidental damage.
Ready to Book That Trip?
Your 80s can be one of the most rewarding times to explore the world – whether that means visiting far-off family, relaxing on a cruise, or finally ticking a dream destination off your list. And with the right travel insurance in place, you can do it all with greater peace of mind.
Travel isn’t just about the destination – it’s about the freedom to enjoy the journey, knowing you’ve prepared for the unexpected. So wherever you’re headed next, take the time to sort your cover properly, pack your essentials, and set off with confidence.
The world’s still waiting. Go out there and enjoy it.
