Frequently asked questions – travel insurance
General enquires
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Can I get immediate cover?
Yes, providing you buy the cover before the start of your trip, you're covered as soon as you complete your quote and your payment has been authorised..
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Should I buy a single trip travel insurance or annual travel policy?
The cover offered under both of these policies is almost identical (depending on which policy is chosen) but if you plan to travel more than once in the next 12 months, the annual policy may be more cost effective
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How does an annual travel insurance policy work?
An annual travel policy will cover you for an unlimited number of trips during the policy period. The maximum trip length available varies between 31 and 60 days depending on the level of cover you select
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What help is available in an emergency?
Rest assured you will have immediate access to the assistance centre, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - from anywhere in the world. Experienced staff can handle any emergency situation from a lost passport to authorising medical assistance
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What is the maximum age?
There is no upper age limit on single trip policies, however you can only purchase a policy online for travellers up to age 99. For older age groups requiring a quote please call 0800 048 3036. The maximum age limit on annual policies is age 74 yrs.
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Are pre-existing medical conditions covered?
Cover is available for many pre-existing medical conditions subject to medical screening. An online screening system is provided or alternatively you can call 0800 048 3036.
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Do I need baggage and money cover?
All policies include baggage cover as standard but you can opt to remove this cover for a premium discount. However, before removing you should check your home insurance provides this cover and it will be in place for your trip. Money is covered on all policies except with the exception of standard cover.
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My partner and I live together but are not married. Are we still eligible for the couple/family option?
Yes, a couple is defined as either: Married Common Law Partners or cohabiting (including same sex relationships) Civil Partnership
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Who is covered under the family insurance policy?
A family is considered to be a legally married couple, a civil partnership couple, a common law husband and wife, a single parent or adult couple who have cohabited for at least one year and up to 3 children aged under 18 (or up to 22 if in full time education) . Under 2's travel free on an adult or couple policy (please select 'Family', under 'Type of policy' to set this up.)
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What is an excess?
This is the first amount you and each named person on the insurance certificate, must pay towards a claim under each section of the policy. Full details of the excesses payable can be found on your policy schedule.
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Can I remove this excess?
No, this is not an available option
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Are there any optional extra's available on the travel insurance policy?
Yes, a number of optional extras are offered - including: Winter sports cover Business cover Variety of sports activities. Full details of the cover provided by these sections can be found in the policy wording.
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Will I be covered by hazardous/special sports?
You are covered for a variety of sports and activities as listed in the policy wording, however there maybe some sports that are not included as standard. You may be able to extend your policy to include extra cover, and this may require an extra premium. Details of cover available can be found in the policy wording, which is available to view online.
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What if I change my mind about the policy?
If you wish to cancel your cover please notify Columbus Direct within 14 days of receiving your policy documents and your premium will be refunded in full. If you are travelling in less than 14 days then the cancellation period is from now until your departure date. If you have already travelled using the cover provided by the policy, or made a claim you may cancel the policy, however no refund will be given.
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Where can I get up to date travel information about the place I am visiting?
You can get travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to ensure you have more information on your destination before you travel.