Travel Insurance at the Last Minute

• Can you buy travel insurance at the last minute?
• What does travel insurance cover when it's purchased at the last minute?
• Three simple steps to secure last-minute travel insurance
• What's not covered?
• Travel tips for last-minute insurance buyers:
• Essential travel insurance tips before going on your trip:

Can you buy travel insurance at the last minute?

If you’ve left it to the last minute, don’t worry—you can still get travel insurance, even on the day you’re heading out. The key is timing: if you purchase your policy before you leave your front door, you’ll enjoy full coverage. But if you wait until after you’ve left home (yes, even at the airport), a 72-hour waiting period will apply.

What does travel insurance cover when it's purchased at the last minute?

Last-minute travel insurance provides the same broad coverage as policies bought in advance, with a few exceptions:

• Pre-trip cancellation cover: this isn’t included if you buy your policy on the day of departure.
• 72-hour waiting period:if you’ve already left home, coverage begins 72 hours after purchase.

Consider this: buying travel insurance at the last minute won’t cover unexpected issues that arise before your trip (like cancellations), but it may protect you against mid-trip mishaps such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or natural disasters—and it may even cost less since pre-trip coverage won’t be included.

Three simple steps to secure last-minute travel insurance

Buying travel insurance last-minute with TID is as easy as:

• Get a quote: pop in your travel details online to explore your options.
• Tailor your cover: choose the policy and extras that fit your plans
• Lock it in: purchase and receive your policy documents straight to your inbox.

Quick, simple, and sorted before (or after) you hit the road!

What's not covered?

• Any issues or events occurring during the 72-hour waiting period if you’ve already left home.
• Cancellations due to issues known before purchasing the policy.
• Existing medical conditions unless specifically included in your cover.
• Events resulting from reckless behaviour, drug or alcohol use, or illegal activities.

Travel tips for last-minute insurance buyers:

• Read the policy: even if you’re in a rush, check the basics – medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage – to ensure your needs are covered
• Consider coverage limits: don’t get caught out falling short on coverage in unexpected situations…check your limits before purchasing.
• Adventure sports coverage: not all adventure sports are covered by travel insurance, and some may require additional coverage. If you plan to adventure abroad, ensure your policy covers your chosen activities.
• Existing medical conditions: got existing health issues? Double-check what your insurance will (and won’t) cover regarding those conditions.
• Flexible policies: plans change…especially when travelling. When choosing travel insurance, choose one that is as flexible as your holiday style.

Essential travel insurance tips before going on your trip:

• Check your medical coverage: ensure your policy includes emergency medical and hospital cover—especially for international travel.
• Cover for changes: plans can change fast! Ensure your policy includes cover for cancellations, delays, or interruptions.
• Protect your valuables: don’t overlook your electronics or passports. Choose a policy that safeguards these essentials against theft or damage.
• Know what’s excluded: Every insurance policy has exclusions. Be clear on what’s not covered, like existing conditions or risky activities.
• Understand waiting periods: Some benefits may take time to activate. Check for waiting periods, especially with last-minute policies.
• Go digital: make sure you can access your policy documents and emergency contact information digitally, which is especially helpful in last-minute situations.

Need to make a claim?

You can claim anywhere, anytime, online.

Need to know more?

Hit a bit of a snag and need some help? Consider our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, your lifebuoy; ready to support and steer you through choppy water.