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Car Hire Excess Insurance

This policy provides a great value alternative to the Collision Damage Waiver offered by the Rental Company. Available to cover just one hire, or on an Annual basis if you rent vehicles more than once a year. Cover is available for residents of most countries worldwide.

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Car Hire Excess Insurance

Benefits of Car Hire Excess Insurance

  • Covers Car Rental at Home or Abroad Renting a Car on holiday gives you flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. Short-term Car Rental at home may be necessary while your own vehicle is repaired, or for occasional use as part of a car share scheme. Whatever your reasons for hiring a car - make sure you're not left with the bill if the vehicle is damaged or stolen whilst in your care.
  • Easy to arrange insurance to suit your needs If you don’t hire often, we offer single hire insurance. Alternatively, if you are likely to hire two or more times a year, Annual multi-trip insurance gives fantastic value and year-round peace of mind.
  • Why pay your Rental firm's costly Collision Damage Waiver? Collision Damage Waiver is offered by most Car Rental companies, enabling you to remove or reduce the amount charged for damage to the car. This add-on can be expensive and may not cover all costs, particularly relating to tyres, windows and underbody. Our car hire excess insurance acts in place of CDW, at a much lower price and covering damage to any part of the vehicle
  • Protection If your holiday rental car is damaged or stolen, you are usually liable to pay an Excess, or Collision Damage charge. Even if the damage was not your fault, you will be charged.

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Hiring a Motorhome or Campervan? We cover you for excesses charged by the Rental Company following damage or theft of the vehicle, including damage to the vehicle underbody, roof, windows & tyres. Suitable for hires at home or overseas. Max cover £5,000

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Hiring a Van in the UK for short-term, private non-commercial use? Cover the excesses charged by the Rental Company in the event of damage to the vehicle. Option to extend cover to include taking the vehicle to Continental Europe. Max cover £2,500

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Pay less for your collision damage cover.

Renting a car while overseas gives you tremendous freedom to explore your destination. But it can be expensive, especially when car rental excess insurance is factored in. Some customers are only offered a collision damage waiver when they collect their car – an often expensive fee that can further stretch the budget.

There’s no denying that a collision damage waiver can give you extra peace of mind – especially on unfamiliar roads overseas – but car rental companies often charge a hefty fee for this important add-on.

Car Hire Excess Insurance from Worldwide Insure gives you all the protection you need in the event of a collision – but for a much lower price. Many holiday makers are becoming wise to the high fees charged by car rental firms for excess cover, which is why buying separate car hire excess cover has become so popular.

Get a quote for low-cost car hire excess insurance above.

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The essential guide to car rental excess insurance

travel car excess insurance

Knowing whether you need to purchase car rental excess insurance is a good start when you decide to rent a car. Making sure you’re protected if there’s an accident is important, but do you need the extra car rental insurance options that are offered when paying for your rental ? The short answer is not always. But let’s find out more.

In this post

What is car rental excess insurance?

How much is the excess you have to pay for your car rental, what is covered by car rental excess insurance, how does it work, do i need a car rental excess insurance, what is the best way to cover rental car excess, the collision damage waiver as an alternative, frequent question about car rental insurance excess.

Car rental excess insurance cover (or supplemental car rental insurance) is a protection plan for a fee that provides coverage for out-of-pocket expenses you may incur if there’s an accident or damage to a car rental . Rental agreements can include an excess amount or high deductible that you are responsible for if a rental car is in an accident, stolen, or damaged.

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Car rental excess cover or deductible amounts can vary wildly. Factors include the rental company, the rental car type , the location and the rental agreement terms. Excess amounts are usually outlined in the rental agreement and can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

Depending on the policy’s terms and conditions, the insurance can cover some or all the costs should you get in an accident.

In the U.S., car rental companies will typically offer four types of coverage:

  • Liability coverage: This can vary from state to state but it is meant to protect you if you hurt someone or damage property during an accident.
  • Collision or loss damage waiver: The waiver helps cover the cost if you damage a rental car.
  • Personal effects coverage: This covers personal belongings if they are stolen from a vehicle (though it’s worth noting if you have renters' or homeowners’ insurance, this will typically be covered).
  • Personal accident coverage: This covers medical bills if you or your passengers are injured in a car rental accident.

In Europe, rentals nearly always include liability coverage, but not the risk associated with damage to the vehicle itself or theft. Since your personal U.S. auto insurance will not apply in Europe, you will have three main options:

  • Buying a collision damage waiver from the car rental company
  • Using zero-deductible collision coverage that comes with some credit cards
  • Purchasing collision coverage through a travel insurance provider.

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This depends. If you have liability and comprehensive insurance for your vehicle, the coverage likely extends to when you are driving a rental car in the U.S. for personal reasons. If you’re traveling abroad, for business purposes, or simply want more coverage, you might need extra rental car insurance.

In Mexico, for example, you must buy extra coverage from a travel insurance provider or a rental car company to satisfy the mandatory insurance requirements .

Other instances where you will want to consider purchasing extra insurance include if you don’t own a car and you rent one occasionally (in this case, you probably don’t have personal auto insurance), or if your personal policy only includes liability insurance and not comprehensive or collision coverage.

One of the best car rental excess insurance options or ways to cover rental car excess is to buy insurance from a third-party company. The price for extra protection insurance can be lower than buying additional coverage from a rental company.

The only downside is that if the car gets damaged, you’ll have to pay the rental company first and then claim it back to your insurance.

Car rental companies typically offer a collision damage waiver when you make an online reservation and again when you pick up the vehicle. When you buy one, the company forfeits the right to charge you for damages to the rental car , but note that CDWs typically don’t cover tire and side mirror damage or damage from “gross negligence,” such as speeding or driving while intoxicated.

Hopefully, we've taken the headache out of the rental car process at home and abroad, and if you're ready to rent a car for your next vacation, we're here to help.

How does KAYAK know what to put in this guide?

I have been traveling the world for over 20 years. I’ve rented cars in Mexico, Italy, France, Ireland, the U.K. and throughout the U.S. Some experiences went smoothly, while others did not, like when I rented a compact manual car and got stuck trying to drive up a steep Tuscan hillside. Through trial and error, I’ve learned when to purchase extra insurance and when not to. Renting a car can be intimidating, but with the help of KAYAK and through my experience and mistakes, I want to help you learn.

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travel car excess insurance

How to Save Money on Car Hire: The Ultimate Guide to Car Hire Excess Insurance

travel car excess insurance

Understanding the Basics of Car Hire Costs

Beyond the basics: what is car hire excess, rental company vs. third-party insurance providers, the role of excess insurance in cost saving, when to consider multi-trip excess insurance policies.

Embarking on a journey or planning a vacation, you might consider hiring a car. It’s a flexible way to explore at your own pace. Yet, many travellers are unaware of the nitty-gritty details when it comes to the cost of car hire. Understanding the basic costs involved in hiring a vehicle is essential to avoid being surprised when the final bill comes around.

Car rental prices are influenced by several factors, including the size and model of the vehicle, its availability, the rental location, and the duration of the hire. It’s tempting to go for the cheapest advertised price, but bear in mind such deals often relate to smaller, older cars. If you’re traveling with family or in a group, you’ll need a car that can comfortably accommodate everyone, which might cost a bit more.

Defining “Excess” in the Context of Car Rentals

In the realm of car rentals, the term “excess” can be somewhat misleading if you’re not familiar with insurance jargon. Also known as the deductible, the excess is the amount you’re responsible for paying if your rental car incurs damage or is stolen under your watch. It’s the slice of the risk pie that you agree to handle, while the insurance takes care of costs beyond that point, up to the vehicle’s full value.

The excess amount can vary widely, typically dictated by factors such as the car rental company’s policy, the category of the vehicle, and the driver’s age and experience. When you collect your rental car, you’ll be briefed on the excess tied to your agreement – and it’s an essential figure to note.

While the existence of an excess is standard practice across the industry, it’s crucial to understand its implications. If any damage occurs, even a minor scratch or dent, you could pay up to the full amount of the excess. This often prompts renters to seek ways to reduce their financial liability, steering towards excess insurance options to safeguard their wallets.

Common Pitfalls with Excess Charges

Navigating excess charges in car rentals can be as tricky as a tight parking space. One of the most common pitfalls renters face is not understanding the extent of their liability. Thinking that the standard insurance that comes with the rental will cover everything, many get caught off guard when they learn about the hefty excess they have to cover after an incident.

Another trap comes in the shape of pre-existing damage. If you don’t check the car thoroughly for dents, scratches, and functionality of all components before leaving the lot, you might be blamed and charged for damages you didn’t cause. As frustrating as it may seem, being charged for damage on returning a car is a widespread issue, and far too often, renters end up paying up to the full amount of the excess.

Rental companies may also place a hold or pre-authorize a charge on your credit card for the excess amount as a security deposit. This can impact your available credit limit, creating problems if you’re not expecting it. Plus, if you return the car outside office hours, without a proper check-in process, you might be charged for damages later on, without a chance to dispute them.

Remember, knowledge is power. Always read the rental agreement carefully to understand your financial obligations, inspect the rental car meticulously at pickup, and return it during office hours when an agent can inspect the car in your presence.

When it comes to choosing insurance for your rental car, you’re faced with two main options: going through the rental company itself or opting for a third-party insurance provider. It’s crucial to understand how they differ to make an informed decision.

Rental companies typically offer various insurance products at the counter as part of the hiring process. These may include a collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection, and third-party liability, which can reduce or eliminate your financial responsibility in case of damage to or theft of the car. However, these options tend to be on the pricier side and can significantly inflate the total cost of your rental.

By contrast, third-party providers tend to offer more competitive rates and could save you a considerable amount if you shop around in advance. Many of these specialists, like CarInsuRent, provide packages equivalent to or even more comprehensive than what rental companies offer. They often include coverage for situations not typically covered by rental desks, such as damage to windscreens, tires, and undercarriage.

Ultimately, it’s about balancing cost against risk and convenience. Just make sure to do your homework well before you’re standing at the rental counter, and you can drive away with your wallet and peace of mind intact.

Excess insurance plays a pivotal role in keeping your car hire costs down, especially when mishaps occur. While no one likes to think about the potential for accidents or damage, they can and do happen. If you’re faced with a bumper scratch or a cracked windshield, excess insurance can mean the difference between minor inconvenience and a holiday budget blown out of the water.

This type of insurance effectively buys down the risk of the excess charge that comes with the rental agreement. Without it, you’re on the hook for the full excess amount, which can easily reach into the thousands. However, with excess insurance in place, you can make a claim to recoup this cost—thus keeping your expenses capped at a far lower level.

The savings can be stark:

  • By paying a relatively small insurance premium upfront, you’re insuring against a much larger possible expenditure.
  • Even if you’re the safest of drivers, other factors out of your control—from theft to weather-induced damage—make excess insurance a wise financial buffer.
  • Besides the tangible savings, the reassurance of having excess insurance can enhance your overall trip, removing the shadow of potential financial stress.

In summary, the role of excess insurance is to minimize your vulnerability to unexpected costs, so you can focus on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about the potential bumps along the road.

If you find yourself hiring cars multiple times throughout the year, whether for business or pleasure, considering a multi-trip excess insurance policy could be a wise financial decision. Instead of purchasing separate insurance for each rental, a multi-trip, also known as an annual policy, covers you for several rentals within a 12-month period.

The convenience factor is significant—you’re not only reducing administrative hassle but also ensuring you’re covered for unexpected trips. And when it comes to cost, the multi-trip policy’s value increases with the frequency of your rentals. As a rule of thumb, if you’re renting for more than 14 consecutive days or more than twice a year, an annual policy can be more cost-effective than obtaining excess insurance each time you rent a vehicle.

However, it’s essential to read the fine print:

  • Check for any limits on the duration of each rental, as some policies may have a maximum number of days per rental period.
  • Also, note the geographical coverage to ensure it aligns with your travel destinations, as international coverage may vary.

Deciding between single-trip and multi-trip policies boils down to how often you rent and where you travel. By crunching the numbers and considering your travel habits, you can pick insurance that’s both practical and pocket-friendly.

Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence.

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Vehicle Hire Excess Cover

  • June 27, 2024

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Vehicle hire companies charge large excesses if something happens to your hire vehicle. Let us help you save money with our standalone cover.

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7 Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies in July 2024

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Finding the cheapest travel insurance is often a priority for travelers hoping to protect themselves and their finances while away from home.

But is it better to err on the side of affordable travel insurance or opt for a more comprehensive plan? That depends on your needs .

On average, a comprehensive plan that covers some combination of trip cancellation and interruption costs, medical coverage and baggage protection (and perhaps a number of other things) will cost you 5%-10% of what you paid for the trip, according to NerdWallet partner Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace.

That means a comprehensive policy for a trip that costs you $3,000 could run you anywhere between $150 and $300. Factors like the cost and length of your trip, the age of the travelers and how much protection you want can significantly influence what you pay for your plan.

Ultimately, Squaremouth recommends “the least expensive policy that offers the coverage [travelers] need.”

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Factors we considered when picking cheap travel insurance plans

We considered a few factors as we looked for the most affordable travel insurance plans.

Price: If your goal is to find cheaper travel insurance, you want the price to be affordable.

Breadth of coverage: The best budget travel insurance is typically going to be a plan that offers a wide range of protections at an affordable cost, ensuring you’re protected with at least some coverage for a wide range of scenarios.

Uniqueness or customizability : While many travel insurance plans have similar protections, some stand out for particular coverage that can be helpful to certain travelers, like those needing to Cancel For Any Reason , those going on a cruise, or travelers with preexisting health conditions. We didn’t spring for the priciest plans with broad, deep coverage; instead, we picked those that meet a sort of budget "sweet spot" when it comes to cost efficiency.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth getting?

An overview of the best cheap travel insurance plans

We looked at travel insurance quotes for a hypothetical 10-day trip to Italy in October 2023. The traveler is a 40-year-old man living in North Carolina who spent $2,000 on the trip, including airfare.

Reliable but cheap travel insurance providers

1. axa assistance usa (silver plan: $70).

travel car excess insurance

Why we picked it:

The $500 missed connection benefit is great for cruise and tour participants. It covers additional transportation, accommodations and meal costs when you miss a cruise or tour departure.

Full trip cancellation and interruption coverage, along with up to $25,000 for out-of-pocket medical costs and baggage coverage.

Among the lowest prices we found.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more than AXA's $70 Silver plan, a Gold plan only costs $19 more and gets you deeper coverage amounts and up to $35,000 in collision rental car insurance.

2. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (ExactCare Value plan: $56)

travel car excess insurance

Cheapest plan we found while still offering a wide array of protections.

Includes a preexisting medical condition waiver.

Add-on rental car collision coverage optional for $10 per day. You can pick how many days you want the additional coverage — it’s not all or nothing.

At $56, this plan comes in at less than 3% of the $2,000 trip cost.

3. IMG (iTravelInsured Lite plan: $77)

travel car excess insurance

Treats COVID-19 like any other illness, which is to say, if your claim accepts flu, strep throat or appendicitis as an acceptable, covered condition, the coronavirus is, too.

Covers costs related to trip interruption up to 125% 

Higher than normal limits on dental expenses, at $1,000. If your teeth are your Achilles heel (or your biggest fear), this plan might be for you.

The iTravelInsured Lite plan doesn’t offer some of the bells and whistles that other plans do, like rental car coverage , Cancel For Any Reason coverage or waivers for pre-existing conditions. But you’ll have relatively solid across-the-board trip protections.

4. John Hancock (Silver plan: $93 for a mid-tier plan)

travel car excess insurance

Mid-level plan (as opposed to a basic plan) at an affordable price for travelers who want more coverage without paying too much.

Includes an optional Cancel For Any Reason add-on for travelers wanting flexibility. It is a bit pricey, at half the cost of the insurance ($46.50 extra for a $93 plan).

Reimburses up to $1,000 for lost baggage , far more than many basic plans.

Add-on rental car coverage for $9 per day.

At $88, John Hancock’s basic (Bronze) plan isn’t particularly affordable. But for just $4 extra, you can tap into the benefits of a mid-tier plan at still less than 5% of the total trip cost.

5. Nationwide (Essential plan: $76)

travel car excess insurance

Includes a preexisting conditions waiver.

Add-on rental car coverage for $90. 

Covers trip interruption at 125% of the trip cost while providing comprehensive emergency medical and baggage coverage.

6. Seven Corners (Basic plan: $75)

travel car excess insurance

On top of standard trip protections, it includes a relatively affordable Cancel For Any Reason option for $31.50 extra.

If you plan to rent expensive sporting equipment, you might consider paying $10 extra to cover lost, damaged, stolen or destroyed gear.

COVID-19 coverage reimburses you for costs incurred if you have to quarantine .

Rental car coverage comes in at an affordable $7 per day.

Seven Corners’ Basic plan stands out because it offers a little bit of everything, appealing to athletic travelers, those who need affordable trip protections, those who want the flexibility to cancel for any reason and those still concerned about getting quarantined due to COVID-19.

7. Travelex Insurance Services (Basic plan: $71)

travel car excess insurance

Straightforward: What you see is what you get. This plan’s coverage has fewer rules and caveats than many. 

While not sporting the highest coverage amounts, it offers a solid range of protections to ensure you get at least something back when your travel is disrupted or you have a medical emergency.

Offers add-on rental car coverage for $10 per day.

At $71, the Travelex Basic plan’s cost is just over 3% of the $2,000 trip’s cost.

If you want to get travel insurance at the cheapest possible rate, here’s a trick. Put $0 as your trip cost, Stan Stanberg, co-founder of comparison site Travelinsurance.com said in an email.

“When excluding trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage the cost of a travel insurance plan goes down significantly,” Stanberg said.

That means you won’t get reimbursed if you need to cancel your trip or if it gets interrupted. But you may still have access to the plan’s medical, trip delay , missed connection, baggage and other protections.

You’ll often find comprehensive travel insurance plans cost 5%-10% of your total trip cost, according to Squaremouth. This will often get you full trip cancellation and trip protection, baggage protection, emergency medical coverage and often other benefits.

Typically, the more you pay, the broader and deeper the coverage.

For many plans, you can purchase travel insurance up until you depart. However, to get access to the most protections possible, booking two days to two weeks after making your initial deposit is the best rule of thumb.

That means you won’t get reimbursed if you need to cancel your trip or if it gets interrupted. But you may still have access to the plan’s medical,

, missed connection, baggage and other protections.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

travel car excess insurance

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Rental car excess insurance

Consider cover for your road trip in Australia, with 15% off for RACV Members

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RACV Travel Insurance $20K giveaway

You could win a share of $20,000 in prepaid gift cards with RACV Travel Insurance. Purchase a new policy by 30 September 2024 and you'll automatically go into the draw for a chance to win. Terms and conditions apply.

Rental car excess for your road trip

Only need cover for the rental car excess? RACV Domestic Rental Car Excess offers a choice of cover from $1,000 - $8,000 (rising in $1,000 increments). Available in Australia only. Includes cover for excess payable on Australian rental cars, if the car is stolen or you happen to have an accident#. Your Domestic Rental Car Excess policy covers the excess payable or the cost of the repairs, whichever is lesser#.

Make a claim online 24/7

  • Make a claim
  • Find a policy document
  • Call 13 13 29

RACV Members save 15% on RACV Travel Insurance

Things you should know.

To receive this benefit, you need to have:

  • purchased the Domestic Rental Car Excess Policy or a policy that includes the Rental Car excess benefit
  • hired the car from a recognised rental car company
  • hold a current Australian drivers licence (not including learners permit)
  • be the listed driver on the rental car hire agreement.

This cover does not replace Rental Vehicle Insurance and only provides cover for the excess component up to the applicable benefit limit stated on your policy.

If your doctor or dentist certifies that you are unfit to drive, Rental Car Excess also provides a benefit of up to $500 of the costs of returning your rental vehicle to the rental company's nearest depot, provided this does not cause you to exceed the maximum benefit shown above.

#Terms and conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits of the policy apply to your benefits. Check the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.

Assistance and support

Making a claim.

Make a claim online 24/7 anytime. You can also call the team for support.

  • Make a claim online
  • Call 1300 207 387

Travel alerts

Check travel status before you plan your trip and again before you leave.

RACV Travel Insurance won't cover you for destinations with a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade "Do Not Travel" status.

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The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. 

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Single trip travel insurance is designed to cover one specific holiday or trip. If you plan to travel more than 2 times per year, our annual multi trip policy may be better value.

We can only cover people up to the age of 85, if you are over this age, you can get cover from our partner Goodtogoinsurance.com. To buy a policy from them online click here , or call them on 0330 024 4478.

An annual multi trip policy can save you money if you travel 2 or more times per year. It also means you won't have to set up a new policy every time you go.

We can only cover people up to the age of 74. If you are over this age you could try our single trip policy which has an age limit of 85. Alternatively, you may get cover from our partner Goodtogoinsurance.com. To buy a policy from them online click here , or call them on 0330 024 4478.

We offer our Globetrotter policy to those looking to travel for between 60 and 365 days on one journey.

We can only cover people up to the age of 65. If you are over this age you could try our single trip policy which has an age limit of 85. Alternatively, you may get cover from our partner Goodtogoinsurance.com. To buy a policy from them online click here , or call them on 0330 024 4478.

Our winter sports policy covers you for a range of activities, on or off-piste (within resort boundaries), whether you are a skier or a snowboarder. Check the policy wording for a full list of the winter sports covered. Adding this cover to annual multi trip policies will cover you for up to 17 days per year.

This includes cover for travel to: England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and the Isle of Man.

This includes cover for travel to: Aland Islands, Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Channel Islands (including Guernsey, Jersey, Alderney, Sark and Herm), Chechnya, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark (including Faroe Islands), Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France (including Corsica), Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece (including Greek Isles), Greenland, Hungary, Iceland, Italy (including Aeolian Islands, Sardinia, Sicily), Kosovo, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway (including Jan Mayen, Svalbard Is), Poland, Portugal (including Azores, Madeira Islands), Romania, Russia (West of the Urals), San Marino, Serbia/Montenegro (including Kosovo), Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain (including Balearic Islands, Canary Islands), Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia , Turkey, Ukraine, UK Area (Great Britain and Northern Ireland), The Republic of Ireland and Vatican City.

Please note: This policy excludes travel to countries or regions which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have advised against travelling to. It is recommended that, before travelling, you check the foreign travel advice area provided by the FCDO which can be found at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .

Travel anywhere in the world. Please note: This policy excludes travel to countries or regions which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have advised against travelling to. It is recommended that, before travelling, you check the foreign travel advice area provided by the FCDO which can be found at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .

Travel anywhere in the world, except USA, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean. Please note: This policy excludes travel to countries or regions which the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have advised against travelling to. It is recommended that, before travelling, you check the foreign travel advice area provided by the FCDO which can be found at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .

For annual multi trip policies, cancellation cover is provided from the selected policy start date. If you require cancellation cover to begin immediately, please select today as the policy start date.

For single trip policies, cancellation cover is provided from when you purchase your policy.

Please select the traveller who you wish to book insurance for. If there is a group of you, please select the Group type of policy.

A couple who are legally married, common-law partners or living at the same address. All limits and excesses are per person irrespective of one or both travelling on the same trip.

A family is considered to be a legally married couple, a common law husband and wife, a single parent or adult couple who have lived at the same address for at least one year and up to 4 children aged under 18 (or up to 22 if in full time education). Under 2s travel free on an Adult or Couple Policy (please select Family, under Type of policy to set this up).

If your group has more than 8 people, please call us at 0800 068 0060.

Please note: All limits and excesses are per person (unless otherwise stated) irrespective of whether travelling on the same trip or individually.

Travel Insurance for Russia

Explore moscow and st petersburg with the right cover for your holiday  .

Russia is the biggest country in the world and offers plenty for holidaymakers to explore, with each city providing new experiences and sights to see.

According to the United Nations’ World Tourism Organisation , the country ranked ninth in Europe for tourist numbers in 2018 with 24.6 million international visitors.

Moscow and St Petersburg are two of the busier cities for holidaymakers, but there is much more to see if you are keen to explore further. Kizhi Island, Vladivostok and Sochi are all stunning destinations to head to if you are planning a trip and they all have unique spots to enjoy.

If you are keen to travel and discover what the country has to offer, then make sure that you have travel insurance in place in case something happens during your trip.

Do I need a visa and travel insurance for Russia?  

Travel insurance is essential for a trip to Russia and helps ensure that you have adequate cover for emergency medical costs, as well as protection for your luggage and potential flight delays. Columbus Direct offers both single trip and annual multi-trip policies , and they can be tailored to suit your needs. This includes getting optional add-ons for winter sports , golf cover and extra protection for gadgets that you take with you on holiday.

If you plan to travel to the country, then you will need to apply for a visa from the Russian embassy. All UK citizens aged 12 or over will need to get their fingerprints scanned as part of the application, which involves visiting a visa application centre in the UK. Your visa will include your passport details as well as the dates of your stay. Your passport should also have at least six months remaining at the time that your visa expires. You might also be required to show that you have an insurance policy that is valid for the entirety of your trip.

When visiting as part of a cruise, you don’t require a visa if you are there for less than 72 hours and the tour has been booked through an official company.

Vaccinations  

Specific vaccinations aren’t required , but you are advised to ensure that your primary courses and boosters are up to date, such as MMR and the flu vaccine. The NHS website also suggests that you could also consider boosters and vaccines for other illnesses such as diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and rabies. If you are unsure whether you should get vaccinations, it is worth checking with a GP ahead of your trip. Holidaymakers should also be careful in areas with a high altitude, as it you can sometimes experience negative effects, and you should look out for show signs of Acute Mountain Sickness if you are feeling unwell.

Is Russia part of Europe for travel insurance?  

When it comes to getting travel insurance for a holiday in Russia, the type of cover will depend on which region you are travelling to.

West of the Ural Mountains is usually considered to be part of Europe and travel to this province can be covered by a Europe policy. It has a large portion of the country's population, even though it only covers a quarter of the Russian territory, and it includes major cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

The eastern side of the Urals forms part of northern Asia and is commonly known as Siberia. To have valid cover here, you will need to get worldwide travel insurance . This will ensure that you have protection for your trip, including medical cover and personal baggage that is damaged, lost or stolen. If you intend to visit both sides of the country, then you would need to get worldwide insurance to cover both areas.

If you are planning another trip over the next year, then annual multi-trip cover could be the cheaper option. Worldwide coverage would mean that you can travel as far as America, Canada and Australia within a one-year period without the need to get more travel insurance.

Russia travel advice

Arriving in russia.

Visitors are advised to carry their passport with them at all times, as there can often be random checks from police. You will also be required to register with the local authorities if you are staying in a location for more than seven working days. This is normally done automatically for you when staying at a hotel, but your host will need to do it if you are staying somewhere else.

The EHIC is not valid there, which makes travel insurance even more important, as it can help with healthcare costs that you could face. Hospitals often require cash or credit card payments in advance of treatments . You can usually bring prescription medication if you are planning to use it for personal needs, but some medicines require certain prescriptions to be allowed into the country, so it is worth checking with the Russian Embassy if you are unsure.

If you are planning to drive, you will need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your car insurance policy must have a third-party cover as a minimum. The RAC’s guide to driving in the country explains that speed limits vary depending on what area you are in, but generally residential zones are limited to 37mph in built-up areas and 68mph on expressways. When driving you should carry all of your documents with you including your full valid driving licence, IDP, proof of insurance, passport and visa. Your car is also required to carry specific items such as a warning triangle, first aid kit, spare bulb, headlamp beam deflectors and a fire extinguisher.

The size of the country

The current population is estimated to be around 145 million people, making it the ninth most populous country in the world. This is despite it being the largest country in terms of land mass. Moscow is by far the most heavily populated area, with an estimated 12.4 million people living in the capital. The amount of people in Eastern cities is sparser, compared to the west which has considerably more citizens.

As the country is so vast it means that there are several different time zones, so the local time can vary quite dramatically depending on where you are. There are currently eleven time zones  spanning across the country, ranging from UST +02.00 in Kaliningrad to UST +12.00 in Chukotka. The time where you are will depend on which region you are staying in, and if you plan to travel around the country then it is likely that your time zone will change several times.

What to do on holiday in Russia

Being such a large country means that it is often impossible to see everything during one visit. The different regions can vary in their culture, as well as the sights and history that you can experience while you are there.

Many tourists will look to visit Moscow, the capital of Russia, during their first trip to the country. Red Square is one of the city’s most visited spots and it is known for its stunning architecture and for being home to the current president. It is also home to several tourist spots include St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, as well as a market square where you can find vendors selling a variety of items and food.

St Petersburg is the second biggest city, with over five million people living there, and it has several popular tourist spots. The State Hermitage Museum is one of the most well-known tourist attractions, and it is the second-largest art museum in the world. It was founded in 1764 and has a vast art collection spanning over three million items, including work from various parts of the world.

There is also the Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood , which was built during the 19 th century as a way of memorializing Alexander II. The Peterhof Palace can also be visited in St Petersburg and it has various gardens and palaces to explore. There is also the Winter Palace of Peter I, which visitors can walk around with private tours available for those looking to learn about its history. There is also an exhibition complex with historical items and paintings available to view.

The country has several nature spots to visit such as the Stolby National park near to Krasnoyarsk. There is also the Kamchatka Peninsula which is 1,250 kilometres long and can be found in the far eastern part of Russia. Visitors can see volcanoes, rivers and hot springs, as well as snow peaks in some areas of the region.

If you plan to get involved in some activities during your trip, make sure that it is covered as part of your travel insurance. Columbus Direct includes 150 sports and activities for free with every policy, which ensures that you are protected for football, zip-lining, yoga and various other activities.

If this isn’t enough, you can also get the Adventure pack add-on to include even more sports to your cover, while our Winter Sports option offers protection for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. This includes emergency medical treatment and helicopter rescue, as well as cover for your equipment and delays on your trip because of piste closures and avalanches.

How to travel around Russia  

It is the largest country in the world and if you are planning to visit more than one area, then you will need to decide on which mode of transport you want to use. There are many different options with local flights and trains considered to be the most popular choices.

There are over 150 airports in Russia, including five in Moscow. Which can make it easier to travel between cities, but you are advised to plan your trip beforehand. Aeroflot is the largest airline in the country, but it doesn’t travel to all airports. This means that you may have to look at other options depending on where you are looking to visit. You can compare them by using Airline Ratings , which rates them by safety standards, and it also includes details on seating, entertainment and food in-flight.

Experience the Trans-Siberian Railway

When it comes to trains, the Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the most well-known rail trips in the world. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostok, while there is also the option to take alternative routes through Mongolia and China . Each journey on the train can provide a different experience, as you have the option of going on various excursions, and the train has many different stops that it can make along the way.

Some of the most popular stops on the Tran-Siberian Railway include Yaroslavl, which is a city originally founded in 1010 and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site . The stunning city has a long history that you can see as you walk through the streets, while there are several 17 th century churches to visit as well.

There is also Lake Baikal , which is a historic lake in the Russian region of Siberia, and it is believed to be the deepest lake in the world. The area has a host of wildlife, including several species of plants that can only be found at the lake, as well as various freshwater fish and seal. Lynx and bears can also be found living in the surrounding area.

Some of the other trains can travel incredibly fast, such as the Sapsan , which moves between Moscow and St. Petersburg at an average speed 155 miles per hour.

What are the risks of travelling to Russia?

Green forest and snowy mountains in Russia

Most of the country is safe to visit, particularly if you remain mostly in the tourist areas. There are cases of pick pocketing and theft in some parts, so tourists are advised to keep their belongings close and to not leave any bags unattended. It is particularly common on public transport and in busy streets when travelling through some of the busier cities.

There are also some taxis that operate without a licence, and the safer option is to use a taxi app to book your journey or order a cab through your hotel. There have also been reports of drink spiking, which can lead to robberies and abuse, so it is advised that you buy your own drinks and keep them in your sight.

There have been a few terrorism attacks over the last ten years, including a suicide attack in St Petersburg in April 2017, while there have also been attacks in Moscow and other cities. There has been an increase in civil unrest and kidnapping in North Caucasus, while the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has advised against travel to various areas, including Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia.

Russia is also known for having a low tolerance towards LGBT+ issues, and it was ranked poorly by ILGA-Europe , which examines countries and their progress towards equality . The country has no laws in place to protect LGBT+ people from discrimination and hate crimes, and Moscow Pride was banned for 100 years back in 2012. There have been reports of violence and harassment to members of the LGBT+ community, and tourists are advised that public displays of affection could put you in danger if it draws negative attention.  

What to do if something happens while I’m away  

If you require the emergency services while you are in Russia, the main contact line is 112 .

You can also call 101 for the national emergency telephone line, 102 to reach the police , and 103 for medical emergencies .

You can also reach out to the British Consulate General Ekaterinburg or the British Embassy in Moscow on +7 495 956 7200 .

Your Single Trip Travel Insurance comes with a number of benefits. These include:

  • Our policy can protect you from 1-365 days. Even if you only plan on having one trip, you can let your holiday last even longer.
  • Cover for up to £15 million provided for medical expenses. Including emergency medical treatment, repatriation and the services of a medical assistance company
  • Insurance may be available if you have a pre-existing medical condition . Let us know if you or any other insured parties require additional cover, and we will do our best to accommodate.
  • We provide cover for up to 150 sports and activities free of charge. Let you hair down and try your hand at some of the sports and activities which may be on offer.
  • Your baggage will be insured for up to £2500, including your valuables and delayed baggage. Should your luggage or personal belongings become delayed, lost, stolen or damaged during your trip.
  • Optional - Winter sports , ski and snowboard cover can be included. Which includes a whole lot more than just ski and snowboarding!
  • Optional - Gadget cover can be added. Add extra cover for your mobile phone, tablet or laptop with up to £1000 protection against theft, damage or loss on your trip.
  • You can be eligible for single trip insurance up to the maximum age of 85 . Be free to travel the world whether you're young, or young at heart

Key benefits of cover:

24h medical assistance services: included.

  • Should you require emergency medical treatment or repatriation, our policies provide you with access to a 24hr multilingual staffed medical emergency company.

Medical Expenses: up to £15 million

  • Whether its injury or illness, our policies cover you for both emergency in-patient and out-patient treatment, which includes non-routine prescription charges, consultations, physiotherapy and even emergency dental treatment. If it becomes medically necessary to repatriate you back to your home country, then this is covered too.

Cancellation and Curtailment: up to £5,000

  • We will compensate you for any unused accommodation and travel expenses which you lose or incur as a result of having to cancel / curtail your holiday due to certain reasons.

Personal Property cover: up to £2,500

  • We cover the loss and theft of and damage to your baggage & personal belongings. We also provide you with an allowance to purchase essential replacement items in the event that your checked-in baggage is delayed for a certain period of time.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am i covered for off piste and without a guide.

You’ll be covered for skiing and snowboarding both on and off piste provided you stay within resort boundaries. You don’t need to be accompanied by a guide.

Why do I need a winter sports policy?

If you’re planning to take part in any winter sports on your trip, you’ll need extra cover to insure you whilst you’re participating in winter sports activities. This extends the policy to cover you whilst you’re skiing or snowboarding – including emergency medical expenses cover if you suffer an injury. It also includes useful extras, like cover for your skiing or snowboarding kit (whether it’s owned or hired), piste closure cover and more

When should I purchase my ski policy?

If you want cover for a single trip, cancellation cover starts as soon as you buy your policy – so if you’ve already put a deposit on your ski holiday or paid for your flights or hotel, it makes sense to sort your travel insurance out right away. 

If you’re considering an Annual Multi-Trip policy to cover all your travel this year, then cancellation cover starts from the start date on your policy.  So if you’ve paid for your trip, enter the policy start date as today to make sure your holiday is protected. 

Don’t forget, there’s a 14 day cooling off period from the date of receiving your policy documentation – during which you can receive a full refund, provided you haven’t already travelled.

Does my EHIC cover me for winter sports in Europe?

The European Health Insurance Card  (EHIC) currently allows UK residents to be treated in EU countries as well as Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland, on the same terms as citizens of the country they are visiting.  It doesn’t cover the cost of repatriating you back to the UK airlifts off the mountainside. 

Not all countries included in the EHIC agreement have totally free healthcare, so the Foreign and Commonwealth Office have always advised that the EHIC in no way replaces your travel insurance policy but it can help to reduce your costs.  We will remove the excess payable on any medical claim where an EHIC has been used.

If you have any unanswered questions, please visit our Winter Sports FAQ’s page for more information .

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Travel insurance tailored for you, why columbus direct.

  • FREE airport lounge access if your flight is delayed for more than 1 hour
  • Over 150 sports and activities covered free
  • Award-winning products and services
  • Over 15 million customers since 1988

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    Travel aid services, which include 24/7 helplines, medical care coordination, and help with travel arrangements, are a common feature of travel insurance coverage. Car hire excess insurance for travelers. Car hire excess insurance is specifically tailored to cover you if you rent a vehicle while you are travelling. Focused on additional charges

  19. Car Hire Excess Cover

    Car Hire Excess Cover. June 27, 2024; Vehicle hire companies charge large excesses if something happens to your hire vehicle. Let us help you save money with our standalone cover. Learn more. ... Leisure Guard Travel Insurance is arranged and administered by ROCK Insurance Group. ROCK Insurance Group is a trading style of Rock Insurance ...

  20. 7 Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies in July 2024

    It is a bit pricey, at half the cost of the insurance ($46.50 extra for a $93 plan). Reimburses up to $1,000 for lost baggage, far more than many basic plans. Add-on rental car coverage for $9 per ...

  21. Car Hire Excess Insurance

    Having car hire excess insurance can help you avoid high excess charges if there is damage to your rental car. We offer up to £6,000 excess insurance cover and up to £1,000 if you misfuel, need to be towed or if your vehicle breaks down. And when you choose the RAC, you'll be covered for many optional extras as standard.

  22. Car hire Excess Insurance Explained

    Car hire companies often offer their own excess waiver or collision-loss-damage waiver insurance. In fact, they are likely to encourage you to take this out when you go to pick up your car. Keep in mind that getting car hire excess insurance this way can add hundreds of pounds to your bill. Many firms charge up to £25 a day, which means you ...

  23. Rental Car Hire Excess Car Insurance Quote

    Rental car excess insurance. Consider cover for your road trip in Australia, with 15% off for RACV Members. Get a quote. About this cover. Things you should know. ... For copies, visit racv.com.au. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to ...

  24. Travel Insurance Russia

    Your Single Trip Travel Insurance comes with a number of benefits. These include: Our policy can protect you from 1-365 days. Even if you only plan on having one trip, you can let your holiday last even longer. Cover for up to £15 million provided for medical expenses.

  25. A guide to car insurance in Russia

    Types of car insurance in Russia Compulsory third-party liability insurance (CMPTL or OSAGO) This is the minimum legal coverage in Russia. Essentially, it covers the costs of vehicle damage, personal injuries, and legal fees for third parties in any road incident where you are at fault.