Travelling with your family can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with risks—especially when you have little ones in tow. Family travel insurance can offer peace of mind for everything from flight cancellations to medical emergencies abroad. But how much does it cost, really? Below, I’ll break down what you need to know about pricing, coverage, and ways to save, so you can choose the right policy for your family.
Understanding the Basics of Family Travel Insurance
Family travel insurance typically covers:
- Medical costs if you or your children fall ill or get injured on holiday.
- Trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen events (e.g. sudden illness, job loss, bereavement).
- Lost or stolen luggage and personal belongings.
Some policies also include 24-hour emergency assistance, which can be invaluable in case of urgent medical care.
Pro Tip: Always read the policy details carefully to ensure you have the coverage you need—especially if you’re travelling with very young children or elderly relatives.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Family Travel Insurance
- Number of Travellers
- The more family members you cover, the higher the premium. However, bundling everyone into a single family policy is often cheaper than buying individual ones.
- Destination(s)
- Staying within Europe? Policies are often more affordable. Travelling worldwide—including the USA or Canada—can significantly increase costs due to higher healthcare expenses in those regions.
- Duration of the Trip
- A week-long break typically costs less than a multi-week or extended trip. If you travel multiple times a year, you might save by opting for an annual multi-trip policy.
- Coverage Options
- Comprehensive add-ons like winter sports cover or cruise cover will push up the price. Consider only those extras you truly need.
- Age and Health Conditions
- Older family members or those with pre-existing medical conditions may face higher premiums or need specialist cover.
How Much Is Family Travel Insurance on Average?
Prices can vary widely depending on the factors above, but here’s a rough estimate:
- Europe-only family policy (2 adults, 2 children, 7-day trip): £15–£40
- Worldwide family policy (2 adults, 2 children, 7-day trip): £40–£100+
If you have more children or plan to travel for a longer period, expect to pay on the higher end of these ranges. For the most accurate figures, you can compare quotes on well-known UK comparison sites.
Ways to Save on Family Travel Insurance
- Shop Around: Comparison sites can help you find competitive rates.
- Annual Policies: If you’re planning more than two holidays a year, an annual multi-trip policy is often cheaper overall.
- Higher Excess: Agreeing to a higher excess can lower premiums, but be sure it’s still affordable in the event of a claim.
- Kids Go Free: Some insurers let you add children under a certain age at no extra cost—keep an eye out for those deals!
Essential Coverage for Peace of Mind
While cost is crucial, never compromise on:
- Medical Cover: Look for at least £1–2 million cover for European trips and £2–5 million for worldwide travel.
- Repatriation: Ensures you can return home if medically necessary.
- Cancellation Cover: Equal to or greater than the total pre-paid trip cost.
Final Thoughts
Family travel insurance doesn’t have to break the bank—especially if you compare quotes, consider your specific needs, and take advantage of multi-trip policies or special offers. By investing in the right cover, you’ll be free to focus on making memories with your loved ones, rather than worrying about what-ifs.
Ready to find the perfect policy for your next holiday? Start by jotting down your travel details, then compare a few insurers to see which offers the best combination of price and protection for your family’s needs. Safe travels!
