Best Travel Insurance Policies for the United Kingdom (UK)

Find the best travel insurance plans for the UK.

Best Travel Insurance: TIQ Travel Insurance | MSIG TravelEasy | Allianz Travel Insurance | Ergo TravelProtect | Singlife Travel Insurance | Sompo Travel Insurance | Tokio Marine Travel Insurance | Allied World Travel Insurance | Starr Travel Insurance | FWD Travel Insurance | AIG Travel Guard

Long known for its rich history and captivating architecture, England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales – the four regions that make up the United Kingdoms – are rewarding and satisfying holiday destinations. 

If you’re looking to quench your love for castles, lochs and majestic mountains, you may be planning a trip – perhaps around Christmas time for a truly authentic and unique experience?

Before you rush off to drink too much mulled wine, be sure to obtain the right travel insurance plan for the UK. Whether you’re travelling to London or exploring the rest of the region, we’ve saved you a step by reviewing five top-notch travel insurance plans for your consideration, as well as compiling all the latest information on entry requirements.

Table of content:

• Entering the UK
  • COVID-19 vaccination and quarantine requirements
  • Travel insurance requirements to the UK
  • Visa requirements
• Best travel insurance plans to the UK
  
  • Tiq
  • FWD
  • Singlife
  • Allianz
  • MSIG
• FAQs

Entering the UK: Travel requirements to note (COVID-19, visa, etc)

COVID-19 vaccination and quarantine requirements

There are no longer any COVID-19 travel requirements to enter the UK. 

Visitors do not need to complete a UK passenger locator form before travel;

do not need to take any COVID-19 tests before travel or upon arrival; and also do not need to quarantine when upon arrival. 

This applies whether you have been vaccinated or not. Also, note that the above is applicable whether you are visiting England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. However, you will be required to comply with any travel requirements imposed by your travel carrier or operator. 

While there are no longer any COVID-19 vaccination or quarantine requirements for visitors to the UK, it’s still wise to consider travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage if you’re visiting London or anywhere else in the region. The right travel insurance for the UK will give you peace of mind by protecting you can against unexpected COVID-19-related health and medical expenses.

Travel insurance requirements to the UK

Travel insurance is not required to enter the UK, so non-UK residents and visitors may travel without an overseas health insurance if they so choose.

Note that not having travel insurance means visitors will have to bear full responsibility for any costs incurred due to injury or sickness. This includes the costs of emergency services, medical treatment and hospitalisation, as well as associated fees and charges for medications, dressings, ambulance conveyance, etc. 

Besides medical coverage during your holiday travel insurance can also provide compensation for a wide range of travel mishaps and delays, including flight cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, or non-refundable bookings and accommodations. 

Additionally, the UK faces a substantial threat of acts of terrorism stemming from both domestic and foreign organisations. On its Travel Advisory page, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that in 2021, the UK threat level for international terrorism was raised from ‘Substantial’ to ‘Severe’ (level four on a five point scale, with level five being the most likely). 

Given that travel and health insurance for the UK is generally affordable, with a wide range of plans available, it is advisable to purchase a suitable travel insurance policy for you and your travelling companions.

Visa requirements

Singaporeans travelling to the UK may enter without a visa for tourism purposes. The maximum duration of stay is six months. However, you should fulfil the Standard Visitor eligibility requirements, including not having a criminal record, and not having been denied entry to the UK for any reason. 

If you do not fulfil the Standard Visitor requirements for visa-free entry, consider applying for a Standard Visitor visa to improve your chances of being allowed entry.

 

Best travel and health insurance plans for the UK 

Travelling to London or the UK offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring historic landmarks to enjoying vibrant city life. However, like any travel destination, the UK comes with its own set of risks. Understanding these risks and having the right travel and health insurance can ensure a safer and more enjoyable trip.

Risks Associated with Travelling to the UK

One of the specific risks travellers might face in the UK is pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist destinations like London. Being aware of these risks and taking precautions can help mitigate them.

According to a report by Euronews, theft incidents on the London Tube have soared by 83%, with popular tourist destinations being key targets. The Office for National Statistics also reported an increase in various crimes against households and people aged 16 years and over in England and Wales. 

Given these risks, it’s important to have a comprehensive travel insurance plan which will cover you in the event of theft or loss of personal belongings, providing peace of mind and some measure of financial protection.

Product	Highlights	Premiums	Apply
Tiq Travel Entry - Asean (Annual) Apply Now	Overseas medical cover: S$200,000 - S$100,000 for COVID-19 Personal accident: S$150,000 Cancellation cover: S$5,000 Bags and belongings: S$2,000 Emergency evacuation and repatriation: Combined up to S$1 mil - S$200,000 for COVID-19 Terrorism cover: S$100,000	S$40.70	Apply Now
FWD Premium Apply Now	Overseas medical cover: S$200,000 - S$200,000 for COVID-19 Personal accident: S$200,000 Cancellation cover: S$7,500 - S$5,000 for COVID-19 Bags and belongings: S$3,000 Emergency evacuation and repatriation: unlimited - S$200,000 for COVID-19 Full terrorism cover included	S$42.50 (COVID-19 add on: S$21.54)	Apply Now
Singlife Travel Lite Apply Now	Overseas medical cover: S$250,000 - S$50,000 for COVID-19 Personal accident: S$50,000 Cancellation cover: S$5,000 Bags and belongings: S$3,000 Emergency evacuation: S$250,000 Repatriation of mortal remains: S$30,000  Terrorism cover (aggregate): S$50,000	S$68.09	Apply Now
Allianz Travel Insurance Silver Plan Apply Now	Overseas medical cover: S$500,000 - S$150,000 for COVID-19 Personal accident: S$100,000 Cancellation cover: S$5,000 - S$4,000 for COVID-19 Bags and belongings: S$3,000 Emergency evacuation and repatriation: S$1 mil  Terrorism cover: Emergency medical and emergency transportation only COVID-19 coverage included	S$101.20	Apply Now
MSIG Elite Plan Apply Now	Overseas medical cover: S$500,000 - S$150,000 for COVID-19 Personal accident: S$200,000 Cancellation cover: S$10,000 - S$4,000 for COVID-19 Bags and belongings: S$5,000 Emergency evacuation and repatriation: S$1 mil (also for COVID-19) Terrorism cover: S$300,000 Adventurous activities: Covered	S$118.20	Apply Now

Premiums shown for single-trip plan, 10-day trip, 1 adult

Tiq Travel – Entry 

Tiq Travel – Entry has one of the lowest premiums amongst travel insurance plans for the UK right now, making it a great cheap option with necessary coverage. A 10-day trip for a single adult traveller costs just S$40.70, yet it manages to pack in quite a decent level of coverage. 

You’ll get overseas medical coverage up to S$200,000, and personal accident benefits up to S$150,000. For emergency evacuation and repatriation, there’s a combined limit of S$1 million.

COVID-19 cover is also included, with up to S$100,000 cover for overseas medical expenses, and up to S$200,000 cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation.

As for travel inconveniences, you will be covered for up to S$5,000 for pre-departure cancellation, while along with up to S$2,000 for luggage and personal belongings. All told, this plan strikes a good balance between cost and coverage, although it may be a little thin for those looking for more robust coverage levels.

FWD Premium

Another value-for-money option for UK travel insurance is FWD Premium. You can buy this plan at S$42.50 for a 10-day plan for one adult. 

What you’ll get is up to S$200,000 for overseas medical expenses and personal accident coverage, and unlimited coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation. 

Should you need to cancel your trip, this plan provides a generous S$7,500 worth of benefits to help you recover lost funds. Personal luggage and items are covered for up to S$3,000.

The main drawback of this plan is that COVID-19 cover is only available as a paid add-on. You’ll receive up to S$200,000 coverage for overseas medical expenses as well as emergency evacuation and repatriation. Travel cancellation due to COVID-19 is covered up to S$5,000.

Those that are comfortable travelling without COVID-19 cover will enjoy the most value here. But even if you spring for the add-on, you’re likely to find this a well-priced option. 

Singlife Travel – Lite

At first glance, Singlife Travel – Lite may not appear to be the most compelling travel insurance option for UK visitors. Its coverage levels aren’t exactly ground-shattering or anything, and it is priced slightly higher than more budget-minded competitors. 

But there’s one undeniable benefit that helps it stand out from the crowd. Singlife Travel comes with a Trip Cancellation for Any Reason clause that allows you to make a claim if you have to cancel your trip for reasons not spelled out in the policy. 

This serves as an extra layer of protection for those who are worried about the “just-in-case”, but do note that you will only be able to claim up to 50% of non-refundable travel, accommodation and entertainment costs if you activate this clause. 

With this plan, you’ll get up to S$250,000 cover for overseas medical expenses (S$50,000 for COVID-19) and S$50,000 in personal accident benefits. Emergency evacuation coverage stands at S$250,000, with S$30,000 in repatriation benefits.

For travel inconveniences, this plan offers up to S$5,000 in travel cancellation cover, and up to S$3,000 benefits for baggage and belongings. 

Allianz Travel Insurance Silver Plan

For those who want a higher level of insurance coverage while travelling in the UK, one option is the Allianz Travel Insurance Silver Plan. 

It offers high overseas medical benefits of S$500,000, and also provides S$100,000 in personal accident coverage. There’s also emergency evacuation and repatriation benefits of S$1 million. 

COVID-19 benefits are quite generous too, with up to S$150,000 for overseas medical expenses, and up to S$4,000 for travel cancellation.

For non-COVID-19 travel cancellations, this plan offers up to S$5,000 for reimbursement of unused flights, accommodations and tickets. 

As for personal luggage and belongings, you’re protected for up to S$3,000 with this plan. 

MSIG Elite Plan

Looking for a UK travel insurance plan with high coverage limits? Consider the MSIG Elite Plan.

Like the previous plan, this travel insurance policy gives you up to S$500,000 coverage for overseas medical expenses, and up to $150,000 for COVID-19. However, it provides higher personal accident coverage of S$200,000 – which can be doubled if the accident took place on public transport. 

Travel cancellation cover is also higher at up to S$10,000 (S$4,000 for COVID-19), and so is bags and personal belongings benefits, which clocks in at S$5,000. 

Another reason to choose this plan: Adventurous activities are also covered, so you don’t have to get a separate policy if you’re planning to go skiing in the UK.

Comparing UK Travel Insurance Plans

Based on a 5D single-trip to the UK for 1 person. Premiums are before discounts/promotions.

The Best Travel Insurance Plans for United Kingdom

FWD Premium

The FWD Premium travel insurance plan is an excellent all-round choice for UK visitors, offering respectable limits across with comprehensive health and medical coverage at a competitive price.

• Overseas Medical Expenses: Up to $200,000 in overseas medical coverage and a $5,000 overseas hospitalisation allowance.
• Trip Cancellation: Coverage for trip cancellation of up to $7,500.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Personal luggage coverage of up to $3,000.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Optional-add on coverage for COVID-19-related medical expenses up to $200,000.

Singlife Travel Lite

Singlife Travel Lite is the best travel insurance for the UK if you are looking for a plan with decent coverage and a cancellation for any reason clause.

• Overseas medical expenses: Up to $250,000 in overseas medical coverage and $5,000 overseas hospitalisation allowance. 
• Trip Cancellation: Coverage for trip cancellation of up to $5,000.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Personal luggage coverage of up to $3,000
• COVID-19 Coverage: Coverage for COVID-19-related medical expenses up to $50,000.

Comparing UK Travel Insurance Coverage

Explore and compare coverage across multiple travel insurance plans for the UK before you buy.

Based on a 5D single-trip to the UK for 1 person. Premiums are before discounts/promotions.

Reasons to Consider Travel Insurance for Trips to the UK

Whether you're planning a visit to explore historic London or the scenic landscapes of England or Scotland, having the right travel insurance for the UK is essential to protect yourself against various unforeseen circumstances.

Theft Coverage

Theft coverage is crucial for travellers, especially in busy areas where the risk of lost or stolen bags is high. Travel insurance for London or any part of the UK ensures that you are compensated for your belongings, providing peace of mind and financial protection.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Emergency medical expenses can be daunting when travelling abroad. Travel medical insurance for UK visitors covers the cost of medical treatment, ensuring you receive necessary care without the burden of high expenses, especially if you happen to get injured in an expensive city like London. It also includes arrangements for getting you home safely if needed.

Flight Cancellation

Flight cancellations can disrupt your entire travel plan. Travel insurance for England or the broader UK compensates for cancelled flights, helping you recover costs and make alternative arrangements without incurring additional expenses.

Travel Interruptions

Travel interruptions, such as flight delays, can lead to unexpected costs for prepaid items like accommodation and meals. Make sure you buy travel insurance for the United Kingdom with coverage for such events, so you are reimbursed for delays and can continue your trip with minimal disruption.

Essential Considerations When Choosing Travel Insurance for UK

Not sure how to choose the best travel insurance for the UK? To help you find the right plan with the exact health and medical coverage for your needs, here are the key things you need to consider: 

1. Evaluate the Coverage Level

Make sure you have adequate travel insurance coverage to stay protected against all kinds of unforeseen circumstances that could affect you on your trip. Compare the benefits and reimbursement limits for standard coverage types such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, flight delays, and loss of belongings. 

2. Check If You Need Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, finding a travel insurance plan can be challenging as most insurers do not offer coverage for these conditions. Always review the policy thoroughly to ensure that coverage for pre-existing conditions is included. This way, you can be confident that your travel health insurance will cover you during your trip to the UK.

3. Analyse and Compare Policy Premiums

The cost of travel insurance in the United Kingdom will vary depending on length of stay. Companies typically offer several tiers of plans at different price points. When in doubt, it can be helpful to use a travel insurance tool like the one from SingSaver to easily compare premium prices at a glance.

4. Check If You Need Sports Activity Coverage

If you’re planning adventurous activities in the UK, such as hiking in the Scottish Highlands, surfing in Cornwall, or mountain biking in Wales, you’ll need a travel insurance policy that covers these specific activities. Opt for a plan that includes adventure sports coverage to protect yourself so you can fully enjoy the thrilling experiences the UK has to offer.

5. Consider Coverage for Trip Interruptions and Belongings

Trip interruptions, such as flight delays or cancellations due to airport closures due to severe weather or strikes, can happen at any time. Make sure your travel insurance for the UK covers such events so you can recoup some non-refundable costs if they occur during your trip.

Essential Safety Guidelines for Travelling in the United Kingdom

When travelling in the UK, it's important to stay vigilant and take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

• Be careful of belongings when taking public transport: Pickpocketing often happens in crowded places like buses, trains, and the Tube.
• Be aware of drinking places: Stay cautious around pubs and bars in the late evenings, and avoid any rowdy customers. 
• Take note of emergency numbers: Familiarise yourself with emergency numbers like 999 for fire services, ambulance, and police.
• Keep valuable belongings close: Always keep your valuable items secure and within sight.
• Consider wearing a money belt: A money belt can help keep your cash and important documents safe from theft.

FAQs

What is the best health insurance for travellers to the UK?

We evaluated that the best health insurance for travellers to the UK provides a good balance between budget and protection. Some great low-budget options include Tig Travel Entry and Singlife Travel Light plans – the latter especially because it allows claims for travel cancellation for any reason. 

For UK travel insurance with high coverage, consider MSIG Elite Plan, which has up to S$500,000 cover for overseas medical expenses and S$200,000 personal accident coverage with double cover for public transport. 

What is the average cost for travel insurance for the UK?

Travel insurance to the UK is relatively affordable. For a 10-day tip, 1 adult, travel insurance to the UK may cost between S$40 to S$120. This depends on the level of cover you choose, as well as whether there are any add-ons and optional benefits. 

Is it worth getting travel insurance for UK holidays?

Given that travel insurance to the UK comes with many useful benefits and a wide range of choices to suit every budget, getting a plan for your UK holiday is well worth it. The premiums are also affordable, especially if you do not need high levels of coverage. 

Do I need to buy travel insurance to the UK?

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is not required to travel to the UK. However, the benefits and coverage provided in a travel policy will prove useful should you encounter any mishaps or accidents during your holiday. Thus, it is recommended to travel with a policy instead of without. 

Do I need travel insurance for a UK holiday?

Yes, having travel insurance for your UK holiday is highly recommended. It provides coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays. With the right policy, you can ensure peace of mind and financial protection throughout your trip.

Can I buy travel insurance after leaving for the UK?

While it's best to purchase travel insurance before you depart, some providers offer policies that can be bought after departure. However, these policies may have limitations and exclusions. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific terms and conditions if you need to purchase insurance after arriving in the UK.

What can be covered by UK travel insurance?

UK travel insurance can cover a variety of incidents including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays, lost or stolen luggage, personal liability, and emergency evacuation. Some policies also offer coverage for adventure sports, rental car damage, and additional COVID-19 related expenses.

How do I get travel insurance for the UK?

You can get travel insurance for the UK by comparing different policies online and buy the plan that suits your needs. Many insurance companies offer online quotes and purchasing options. Ensure that the plan you choose covers all essential areas such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings, and includes any specialised coverage for the activities on your trip.

Is travel insurance for a UK vacation worth It?

Yes, travel insurance for a UK vacation is worth it. It protects you from unexpected expenses and provides assistance in emergencies, ensuring that your trip is enjoyable and stress-free. The cost of travel insurance is relatively low compared to the potential costs of medical treatment, trip disruptions, or lost belongings.