Cover My Travel

I've been reviewing my travel insurance options, having been quoted an exorbitant amount for renewal by my current insurer. It was handy, therefore, that I was asked to review what was on offer from Cover My Travels, a UK company specialising in medical travel insurance and cover for those with a medical condition.

The basic options covered for normal travel insurance are fairly comprehensive, ranging from single trip through annual coverage to long-stay insurance.

Of particular interest to me was cover for the over-60s; in fact, their 'senior citizen' range is 65 and over, and cover seems to be available for up to age 79 for a single trip. What is perhaps a little surprising is that the stated maximum for annual multiple-trip cover is 69 - how is it possible for there to be a 10-year difference for single/multiple? No doubt, there are good statistical arguments for this apparent discrepancy.

The prices quoted for a couple in their sixties annual cover was not excessive, but neither was it close to the cheapest on the market. However, it should be remembered, when comparing costs on such things, that the speed of response of the company in the event of a claim, how much jargon or gobbledy-gook there is in the policy document, among other items, is just as important as cost. From what I've seen via their website, plain English is preferred to insurance-speak. As yet, I can't speak for their claims service!

Many medical conditions come under the 'no extra charge' heading, and these are listed on the site. Nothing like major heart surgery is listed, obviously, but if it isn't shown, a specific request needs to be made to the insurers. The conditions covered seem fairly comprehensive, though.

The scale of benefits (what you can be paid for certain misfortunes related to your travels) looks generous by comparison with most companies. This too is important.

Some hazardous activities - like archery, white water rafting (up to Grade 3), golf, scuba diving (under certain conditions), cycling, motor cycling (up to 125cc, with conditions), rambling/trekking/hiking, parascending over water, water skiing, wind surfing, snorkeling & hot air ballooning (must be pre-booked with a UK tour operator) - are covered at no extra cost. Anything more dangerous would require extra premiums, which seems fair enough.

All in all, this is a company that seems to have its finger on the pulse (!) of those needing travel insurance, particularly medical cover. Quotes are available online for most basic requirements and group combinations, without recourse to the telephone.

I shall be giving Cover My Travels serious consideration when my renewal is due.