Search

Popular searches

  1. 69ÌÃ
  2. Travel insurance
  3. Travel Insurance Guides and Articles
  4. Travel insurance for seniors

Travel insurance for seniors and travelling with grandchildren

Read our guide to travelling in later life. We explore what to look for in your travel insurance, plus taking trips with your grandchildren.

Last updated: 28/2/2025

Senior citizens holding hands on a beach

Travelling later in life

Whether you're taking a well-deserved trip in retirement or making cherished memories with your grandchildren, travel is one of life's great joys. And, as you get older, you might find you get the chance to do it more or go for longer.

It’s important to plan carefully, though, to keep everyone safe, consider any health conditions and handle the unique challenges of travelling with kids.

This guide helps you find travel insurance to suit your needs in your later years. And it offers tips for a smooth trip with your grandchildren.

In this article:

Travel insurance for seniors

Travel insurance becomes more important as we age, offering peace of mind and protection against unexpected costs. Whether you’re 60 or 80, the right insurance can help you relax and enjoy your trip fully.

Why travel insurance is essential

Even the best-planned trips can have problems, like getting sick or losing your luggage. If you fall ill or are injured in another country, it could cost a lot of money for treatment or to get you home.

Travelling without insurance isn’t worth the risk. It’s important to have it no matter how old you are but especially for seniors – whether you’re 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 or above, or anything in between. 

Insurance for older travellers can be more expensive because they are seen as higher risk. But having cover means you're protected and can enjoy your trip without worrying.

Put protection for your trip in place today

Travel Insurance

Finding the right cover

Travel insurance for senior travellers often needs more consideration than standard policies. It’s important to do your research and make sure the price and the policy are both right for you. 

Single-trip policies are ideal for one-off holidays, while annual multi-trip policies are more cost-effective if you travel more frequently.

When you compare travel insurance from different providers, read the policy documents carefully. Check for specific details such as cover for the following.

  • Medical emergencies, including costs for treatment abroad
  • Repatriation services to bring you home if needed
  • Medical transfers
  • Having to cancel or cut short your trip
  • Lost, stolen or damaged belongings, like luggage and cash
  • Personal liability and legal protection
  • Activities you plan to take part in

Before you buy, make sure you’re clear how much cover there is for each. For example, if you fell ill and couldn’t travel, what would happen if you had to cancel and what could you claim back?

Pre-existing medical conditions

To get travel insurance, you need to declare any health conditions the people travelling already have. If you don't, it could void your cover if you need treatment for those conditions abroad. 

Insurance companies decide if they’ll cover you based on what you tell them upfront. There are different levels of risk they’re prepared to accept. So if one company says no, another might still say yes.

If you have health issues like diabetes, heart problems or cancer, your insurance might cost more. Some specialise in covering these conditions.

You could also look at travel insurance that is manually underwritten. This means each policy considers the specific needs of the person it’s for. This type of insurance usually costs more.

At 69ÌÃ, we look at all health issues you tell us about when you ask for a quote. This means, if you have a long-term illness, you might be covered for medical issues it causes while you’re away, such as having to seek medical care or being rushed home for treatment.

If finding cover proves difficult, check the for a list of insurers who can help. You can also call MaPS on 0800 138 7777.

Read more:
Travel insurance for people with cancer
Travel insurance for diabetics
Travel insurance and high blood pressure

Travelling with grandchildren

Holidays with your grandchildren can be an amazing way to spend time together and create lasting memories. But a bit of extra planning can help everything go smoothly. Here’s what to think about.

Permissions and paperwork

If you’re travelling with your grandchildren, especially if you have a different surname, it’s a good idea to carry some important documents.

A letter of permission from the parents can help if anyone questions your right to travel with the child. The letter should include:

  • Your name and your grandchild’s name
  • Details of the trip, like the dates and destination
  • Names and signatures of both parents (if possible)

Make sure at least one parent or guardian signs the letter. If the parents are divorced, try to get both to sign.

Although it’s not required, having this letter can avoid problems at border controls or medical centres. It’s also helpful to bring a copy of your grandchild’s birth certificate and their , including allergy and vaccination details.

For more advice, check out the NHS guide to .

Planning a child-friendly holiday

The secret to a great trip with your grandchildren is choosing places and activities that they’ll enjoy. Look for family-friendly resorts. Check that they’re easy to get around. And let the kids help plan the trip. It’s a fun way to get them excited.

Pack smartly, making sure you have snacks, spare clothes and any medicines they might need. Don’t forget toys, games and devices to keep them entertained. Remember they may need extra gadget cover. And keep travel days short and take breaks to avoid anyone getting too tired.

For tips on safe destinations, check the latest advice from the .

Making the journey easier

Travelling with children takes a bit more patience and preparation. To make things easier:

  • Pack entertainment like books, toys, or devices to keep them busy
  • Encourage them to stretch or move around during flights to avoid restlessness
  • Plan a flexible schedule with time for breaks

And don’t forget to take care of yourself. Stay hydrated and well-rested. Happy grandparents make happy holidays.

Want more tips? Read our guide travelling with a baby or toddler

Key takeaways

Whether you’re planning a peaceful seniors’ trip or an adventure with your grandchildren, being prepared makes everything easier.

  • Get travel insurance: It helps protect you from big costs like medical bills, cancellations or lost items.
  • Share your health details: Always tell insurers about any health issues so your cover stays valid.
  • Need help finding insurance? Try specialist insurers or check the MaPS directory for options.
  • Travelling with grandchildren? Bring permission letters, their medical info and all the essentials.
  • Make it fun and easy: Pick child-friendly places, pack entertainment, take breaks and keep plans flexible for happy travels.

Plan your next trips with confidence

Travel insurance

Common questions

  • Travel insurance for older people should include medical cover that fits their needs. This way, you can get help if you get hurt or sick while traveling.

    Other things usually covered by travel insurance are:

    • Cancellation and curtailment: If you have to cancel or cut short your trip
    • Loss of belongings: If your things get lost or stolen

    If you buy travel insurance when you book your holiday, you're covered from that moment. If you then need to cancel your trip before you leave because of bad traffic or getting sick, you may be able to make a claim.

    Some companies offer special travel insurance for older travellers. But regular travel insurance is often available for people in their 80s and might be cheaper. 

  • It might. Different insurance companies have different rules for covering older people. Here’s a simple breakdown: 

    • Over 60s: Most insurance companies offer regular policies for people over 60. It's a good idea to compare prices to find the best deal.
    • Over 70s: People over 70 may have to pay more for insurance. Or you might be limited on how long you can travel for at a time. 
    • Over 80s: Some companies stop offering insurance at this age. Others specialise in covering older travellers. Their policies might cost more and need extra health checks.

    No matter your age, always tell the insurance company about any health conditions you have. This helps them give you the right cover based on your needs

  • Whichever policy type you choose, check carefully to see how long you’re covered for on each trip. Since older people tend to go on longer holidays, it’s important to know if there are any trip limits.

    Travel insurers can set upper age limits depending on the kind of activity you want to do while away. For instance, you’re less likely to find ski cover than you are, say, cruise cover, if you’re in your 70s and 80s. That’s not to say it doesn’t exist; you just might need to find a specialist provider.

    The older you get, the more restrictions there may be on how long you can travel and stay covered for. While younger people may be able to get covered for up to a year, people in their 70s might be limited to 90 days, and those in their 80s to fewer days still.

    As an example, 69ÌÃ Travel Insurance has the following age limits:

    • Single-trip policies: if you’re up to and including 70, you can qualify for the longest possible trip of 365 days. If you’re between 71 and 75, the maximum length of your trip drops to 90 days. And if you are 76 or above, the longest trip you'd be covered for is 31 days
    • Multi-trip policies: the maximum age for our Economy, Standard and Premier level multi-trip policies is 75. Although you can take as many trips as you like within the policy year, there’s a maximum of 31 days duration for each individual trip. The limit can be extended to 45 or 60 days for an additional premium.

    This will differ between insurers, so it’s worth knowing what you can get covered for before you buy. 

  • If you’ll be travelling with a companion such as a friend, partner or family member, it’s important to check if they’ll be covered too. Many seniors travel insurance policies are just for individuals and a companion may need to take out their own cover. You may also need separate policies for younger passengers if you plan to travel with your grandchildren.

  • Show more

  • Some policies allow this but it’s important to confirm with your insurer to make sure they’re fully covered. Alternatively, your grandchildren might be covered on a family policy bought by a parent or guardian. Compare any cover you or they already have with what you need, to identify if any more is needed.

  • Before you go

    • Ideally before you book, check with the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) to make sure your trip is safe and well-managed by a trusted firm
    • Take a copy of your medical notes, including your emergency numbers
    • Check with your doctor or on the to see if you need any travel vaccinations or medication before you go
    • Make sure there’s no advice against travel to your destination. If there is, travelling against it could invalidate your travel insurance
    • If you’re travelling to Europe, apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) to get free or discounted medical care. Getting travel insurance is still important, as it covers costs the cards don’t, like transporting you home to the UK if needed
    • Make sure your passport is still valid and apply for a new passport if you need to. Some countries like you to have at least six months left on your passport to allow you entry
    • Tell your bank about your travel plans so you can use your cards abroad. Some banks will stop your cards when they’re used abroad in an anti-fraud measure
    • When packing medicines, check what you can take on a plane. There are limits on liquids, which can include medication. Bring extra prescription medication with you in case of delays, and keep spares of any glasses or hearing aids in a separate bag in case you lose your normal set

    Read our pre-travel and packing checklists to make sure you don’t forget anything important. And find out how to pack a suitcase with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

    During your trip

    • Keep your hand luggage light and check your bags in at the airport to make getting around easier
    • On your flight, drink plenty of water and keep moving as often as you can
    • Try and book outside of the peak seasons. This will also help you find cheaper deals
    • Check your hotel for accessibility if you have difficulty getting around. Read the  
    • Make sure you know the address of a local doctor and pharmacy near to where you’re staying

  • Contact local medical services immediately and notify your insurer. Your policy may provide outpatient support or emergency medical assistance you can call on. 

    Carrying your grandchild’s and insurance details will help ensure prompt care.
     

Related travel products

  • Foreign currency

    Order travel money online or in selected branches. Pick up in any branch or get it delivered to your home

  • Travel money card

    The savvy way to spend abroad. One prepaid Mastercard™ you can top up any time with up to 22 currencies

  • Passport Check & Send

    Get your passport application right the first time. We can even complete and submit it for you digitally

Related services and guides

ESTA
Travel money refund guarantee
Travel eSim bundles
Our travel app
Long haul destination costs
Plane wing in flight

Don't make these holiday mistakes

Booking a last-minute holiday can get the blood pumping with the sudden thrill of adventure, but it also makes it easier to overlook things.

 Woman set on floor taking notes with open suitcase on bed behind her

How to pack a suitcase

Whether you’re heading to the beach for a much-needed break or boarding a boat for a cruise somewhere breath-taking, it’s important to know what to pack in advance so ...

 Taj Mahal in distance with people in the foreground

Travel insurance for India

For many UK holidaymakers, India is an intriguing and diverse culture with colourful traditions and engrossing history. For many others, it’s a home from home.

 Interior of Dublin library in Ireland

Travel insurance for Ireland

Do UK residents need travel insurance for Ireland? And what healthcare is available for Brits if they’re visiting the country?

 Young family laughing in bed together

Is Airbnb safe? Tips on staying safe

The arrival of Airbnb has helped to transform the travel industry in recent years. On any one night, over two million people stay in homes advertised through Airbnb in ...

 Venice at sunset

Travel insurance for Italy

Find out about the safety of travelling to Italy as well as the medical care available to Brits and how to get around.

 Japanese temple in forest

Travel insurance for Japan

If you’re jetting off to Japan soon make sure you have good travel insurance to cover your trip. The right policy may offer more protection than the standard medical ...

 Lagoon with boats surrounded by rocky green hillside in Thailand

Travel insurance for Thailand

Thailand’s idyllic beaches, azure-blue sea, buzzing cities and exciting alternative scene are a draw for Brits. A trip can be a once-in-a-lifetime event.

 Mother giving her daughter a kiss in the airport before travelling

Travel tips for babies, toddlers and young kids

Travelling with kids? Before you get on the plane, read our quick and easy guide to help make sure your journey runs smoothly.

 Beach with sea waves lapping on to beach and a beautiful sunset in the distance

Find hot holiday destinations any time of year

If you're the type of sunchaser who looks forward to that sizzling summer break, can’t wait to escape to warmer climes in the UK’s winter months or can't be away from ...

 young men and women friends with skiing equipment take selfie

69ÌÃ Travel Insurance Winter Sports Survey

With the winter sports season upon us, we conducted a Winter Sports Survey for the second year running. It found as many as four in 10 UK travellers (39%) planned to ...

 a couple relaxing by the sea with a picnic

Winter sun holiday destinations to escape to

Looking to escape the chilly UK winter? Our Winter Sun Survey reveals the top sunny destinations UK travellers are choosing this season. And learn why travel insurance ...

 Woman wearing sunglasses and smiling with mountains in distance

What is ABTA?

Over 60 million people travel from the UK most years for holidays or business. The vast majority enjoy smooth, trouble-free journeys. Sometimes, though, things go wrong.

 Plane wing in flight

What is ATOL protected?

ATOL stands for Air Travel Organisers' Licensing, a scheme that helps make sure consumers are covered if travel firms fall into financial difficulties.

 Female doctor smiling and talking to an elderly female patient

Vaccinations needed for Thailand

Some vaccinations for Thailand are recommended and some are mandatory in certain circumstances. It’s important to know which vaccinations or injections for Thailand you ...

 Woman wearing backpack walking at the airport pulling wheeled luggage behind her

When to buy travel insurance

Do you need travel insurance for your trip? Is travel insurance worth it? And, if yes, when is the right time to buy cover?

 Woman wearing hat and backpack at airport looking a departure board at the airport

Safe travels: where can I go on holiday?

Travel’s a great way to unwind, see the world, open the mind and expand horizons. But rapidly changing situations around the world can soon impact such plans.

 Male wearing winter jacket and backpack looking up at departures board

Travelling without insurance: Why you should never take the risk

If you’re thinking of heading abroad without insurance, think again. This guide explains why doing so can be risky, busts common myths about the need for insurance and ...

 Doctor stethoscope resting on top of a world map

Do I need travel vaccinations?

There’s no better feeling than planning an amazing trip to an exotic destination. Make staying safe with travel vaccinations top of your to-do list.

 Dog running with owner through sea waves and spray along a sandy beach on a sunny day

How to travel with your dog

Taking your best friend on holiday with you is everyone's ideal situation, but travelling with a dog can be a complicated process. Make sure you know how.

 Cappadocia with hot air balloons flying around the sky

Travel insurance for Turkey

A trip to Turkey offers toasty beaches and tourist treats aplenty. No wonder it’s so popular with holidaymakers from the UK and elsewhere.

 New Zealand road with snow-capped mountains either side and ahead

Travel insurance for New Zealand

Find out what medical care Brits can access in New Zealand and travel risks to be aware of like natural catastrophes, however rare.

 pregnant lady relaxing in the sea

Travelling during your pregnancy

Before your little bundle of joy arrives, you may be considering taking a holiday. But is it safe? And what precautions should you consider before making a booking?

 Person snowboarding through snow surrounded with snow spray

8 tips on staying safe while you enjoy your winter sports

The white stuff is alluring, so make sure you can enjoy it safely, are ready for the unexpected and pack travel insurance for extra reassurance.

 Young family on the beach laughing and playing

10 tips for keeping kids safe on holiday

We all know the feeling – getting to the airport, then a wave of panic comes over you. Did you remember your passport? What time's the flight? And where on earth did you ...

 Sandy beach with rocks and palm trees in front of blue sea with person riding a jet ski

10 ways to look after your valuables at the beach

The whole idea of lounging around on the beach is to switch off and enjoy the sunshine. But the reality is that opportunistic thieves are on the lookout for unattended ...

 Woman holding up mobile phone, showing a doctor on the screen

Don’t let illness spoil your perfect holiday – book an online doctor

There’s nothing worse than falling ill while away from home. Along with the worry of the cost of visiting a doctor and getting treatment, being poorly can put a real ...

 Kukulkan Temple in Mexico

Travel insurance for Mexico

Find out about medical care available to Brits in Mexico, as well as travel risks, transport options and the importance of taking travel insurance.

 Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco

Travel insurance for Morocco

Perched on the northern tip of Africa, Morocco’s long been a popular destination for UK holidaymakers. If you’re heading there soon, make sure you’ve got good travel ...

 lady holding a map and smiling

Schengen travel insurance for UK travellers

There are different rules for travelling to the Schengen Area from the UK since Brexit. If you’re visiting this part of Europe, find out if you need a Schengen visa and ...

 Woman taking picture of landscape featuring a mountain range and lake.

The Travel Safety Index for Solo Travellers

Travelling solo means freedom and independence, making new connections and never having to compromise.

 Table mountain and Cape Town marina

Travel insurance for South Africa

How safe is South Africa to visit and why is having travel insurance important when you go? Our guide looks at the potential travel risks and the cover you may want to ...

 Drummer and band playing music to a crowd with sun in background

Top tips for going to festivals overseas

With festivals overseas becoming the new norm, festivalgoers need to do a bit more planning than for a UK festival.

 UK passport with compact camera on top, watch and a retro camera

How to protect your travel documents

While it’s useful to take hard copies of travel documents away, you can minimise your worry and risk. Here are some handy tips on keeping your travel documents safe.

 a person packing a suitcase

Travel hacks to help save money on your holiday

Satisfy your travel craving while making your holiday budget go further.

 v

Great tips for people travelling alone

Whether you’re travelling solo because of business, you’re hoping to meet someone, or simply because you enjoy it, being by yourself can sometimes be a daunting prospect ...

 a couple standing with matching suitcases

What can I take on a plane?

Ready to jet off on a much-needed break but confused about what you can take with you on the flight?

 group of people having a good time

Teen travel: holiday ideas for teenagers and tips for parents

Travel can help teenagers grow and discover new places. This guide shares the best trips for teens, advice for those travelling independently for the first time, plus ...

 women with sunglasses leaning on a colour building

Where is hot in March, April and May?

Spring is a great time to leave the cooler UK and go somewhere sunny. And we can help with that.

 a happy couple having drinks at a beachside lounge

Where is hot in September, October and November?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days as UK temperatures start to fall? We can help with that.

Getting travel insurance for an adventure holiday

Adventure holidays come in all shapes and sizes. They can be full of action or just include a few activities, depending on the type of getaway you’re going for.

 young lady checking the flight times on the board whilst holding her passport

What to do if your airline or holiday company goes bust

Finding out that your airline or holiday company has gone bust is a shock – especially if you’re on holiday at the time. But there are plenty of laws and regulations in ...

 Person pushing wheelchair along passage in airport

How to get assisted travel at airports

Lots of people who need assisted travel at airports are missing out simply because they don’t know how to go about asking for it.

 aerial view of cliffs overlooking the shoreline

Do I need travel insurance for a UK break or staycation?

Travel insurance for a holiday in the UK isn't something you must have, but it might be something you want to have.

 Dubai skyline at night

Travel insurance for Dubai

Planning on living the high life with a trip to the UAE’s iconic mega-city, Dubai? Make sure you’re aware of the local culture, travel risks and have travel insurance to ...

 Egyptian pyramids

Travel insurance for Egypt

Make sure you’re travelling safely in Egypt with the latest advice and risks, and learn about getting around and local culture.

 Rocky and green coastline with people on sandy beach surrounded with blue waters and boats

European and Global Health Insurance Cards

If you're travelling to an EU country from the UK, make sure you take a Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) with you or existing European health Insurance Card (Ehic), ...

 Union Jack flag at top of flag pole

Everything you need to know about embassies

Learn the difference between embassies and consulates, and why you might need them when travelling.

 Family relaxing sitting near beach and sea on their summer holiday

Family travel insurance

If you're travelling abroad as a family, it makes sense to take out insurance that covers you all. Especially if you have little ones.

 Woman wearing hat and backpack at airport looking a departure board at the airport

Flight delays and compensation

Most of the time, getting a flight is a hassle-free event. If you only take hand luggage, have your boarding pass saved to your phone and everything’s running to plan ...

 Old French townhouses

Travel insurance for France

It may be a short hop away, but a trip to France is not without its travel risks. Make sure you’re clued up on what they are and have travel insurance in place to help ...

 Woman with their head outside a train window, posing for a picture with a scenic mountain range in the background

Gap year travel advice for solo travellers

Exploring the globe can be scary, but there’s so much to find at the edge of your comfort zone. We look at some of the top destinations to visit on your own – and share ...

 Classic red car parked in Havana street, Cuba

Travel insurance for Cuba

Today, Cuba is more accessible than it has been for many decades, and those who decide to holiday there can expect a mixture of colourful city life and luxurious ...

 Red suitcase on airport conveyor belt at luggage reclaim

What you should do about delayed, lost or damaged luggage

The last thing you want to happen on holiday is standing the luggage carousel at the airport waiting for bags that don't appear. It's a huge inconvenience that can cost ...

 Sunglasses sitting in sand on a beach

Travel insurance for diabetics

You should be able to get the right cover to travel abroad if you’re diabetic, making sure that your medical needs are taken care of.

 man sitting on the beach with his laptop

Travelling while you work or vice versa

The opportunities to combine business and leisure have never been greater. You could be planning some ‘bleisure’ time, taking a ‘workation’ or diving into becoming a ...

 Man on plane in upgraded seating working on his laptop

How to get a free flight upgrade

There are several ways to get to the top of the class on your flight – whether that's business or even first.

 Woman in red dress and hat looking up at Greek ruins

Travel insurance for Greece

Greece and the Greek islands have long been a popular travel destination for us Brits. But are there any travel risks or other factors to keep in mind before and when ...

 Doctor taking blood pressure of a patient

Travel insurance for people with high blood pressure

Travelling with high blood pressure is fine – but it’s important to make sure you’ve got the right cover in case something goes wrong abroad.

 a person sitting on a bed packing a suitcase

Holiday packing and pre-travel checklist

So, you’ve booked your flights, accommodation and activities. What next?

 Two backpacks, one with boots attached, sat against a dark wooden door

A complete list of backpacking essential items

Going backpacking is one of life’s great adventures. But before you set off you’ll need some packing tips so you're not weighed down on the way.

 Palma Cathedral, Majorca, Spain

Travel insurance for the Balearic Islands

It’s one of the most popular holiday hotspots for UK holidaymakers. But what can you expect from a trip to the Balearics?

 Canadian kayaks in water surrounded by Canadian mountains and trees

Travel insurance for Canada

Canada is a vast country of diverse delights – everything from bustling cities to snow-capped mountains, deep forests and crystal clear lakes. If you're thinking of ...

 Elevated view of small coastal town in Canary Islands surrounded by blue waters

Travel insurance for the Canary Islands

People flock to the Canary Islands from all over Europe. No wonder, with such appealing beaches, landscapes and temperatures to enjoy.

 Couple sitting on rock hill, embracing

Travel insurance for cancer patients

If you're living with cancer but love to travel, can you get travel insurance for your trip?

 A group of friends on the top deck of a tourist bus

Kids’ travel insurance

It's a proud feeling when children turn eighteen and start holidaying on their own. Although, perhaps it's tinged with a feeling of relief. But you can't help but worry ...

 Three woman taking a selfie whilst jumping and smiling

Compare our travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any trip. It can help protect you from things like flight cancellations, medical emergencies and lost luggage.

 A person in a pink shirt and blue shorts stands on a sandy beach, gazing out at a turquoise sea where a cruise ship is docked, with another ship in the distance

Understanding cruise travel insurance

Thinking of going on a cruise? Learn how cruise travel insurance protects you from unexpected events on board, at sea and on land, for smooth sailing and a stress-free ...

 Sydney opera house in the foreground with Sydney Harbour Bridge beyond and a city skyline further back still. A ferry crosses the water between the opera house and the bridge

Australia travel insurance

Find the best places to visit in Australia, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is a must for your trip.

 a bright sunrise over the cliffs of the Grand Canyon

USA travel insurance

Discover top places to visit, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable USA adventure

Where is hot in December, January and February?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days in the UK’s colder winter months? We can help with that.

 Three people take a selfie in front of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, with the basilica’s ornate towers rising behind them under a clear blue sky

Spain travel insurance

Discover some top places to visit in Spain, tips on staying safe while you’re there and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable Spanish adventure.