Family Travel Insurance: Why You Need It & How to Choose the Best One
Let’s be honest, travel insurance isn’t the most exciting part of planning a family adventure. You’d rather be browsing dreamy destinations than comparing policy details, right? But here’s the thing: family travel insurance is the superhero you don’t think about until you need it. And trust me, when you’re traveling with kids, things will go sideways at some point, missed flights, lost bags, unexpected fevers, or that one time your toddler tried to befriend a jellyfish.
So, I’ll try to keep this post lighthearted and break it down in a way that won’t put you to sleep. Here’s everything you need to know about family travel insurance, from the best companies to what you should actually be looking for in a policy.
Why Do You Even Need Family Travel Insurance?
Not all travel insurance is created equal. When choosing the best family travel insurance, here’s what actually matters:
- Medical Coverage – This is non-negotiable. Look for high medical expense limits (£1m+ for international trips) and emergency evacuation coverage.
- Travel Disruption Protection – Covers delayed, canceled, or missed flights, so you don’t have to pay extra out of pocket.
- Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Luggage – Essential if you’re checking in bags filled with baby gear, clothes, and snacks that are way too expensive to replace.
- Adventure & Sports Coverage – If you’re planning on skiing, diving, or any outdoor activities, make sure your policy covers it.
- COVID-19 Coverage – Some policies still offer coverage for cancellations or medical costs related to COVID-19.
- Flexibility for Long-Term Travel – If you’re taking an extended trip, look for policies that allow you to extend coverage while abroad.
What to Look for in the Best Family Travel Insurance
If you’ve ever traveled with kids, you know that even the most well-planned trips can go off the rails in seconds. Here’s why family travel insurance is worth it:
✅ Kids are unpredictable – One minute they’re fine, the next they have a mystery fever. Medical bills abroad? Not cheap.
✅ Flight delays & cancellations happen – Airlines don’t always cover the extra hotel stay or food costs.
✅ Luggage gets lost – And somehow, it’s always the bag with all the essential baby gear inside.
✅ Adventure comes with risks – Planning hikes, snorkelling, or road-tripping? Accidents happen.
✅ Peace of mind – If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be stuck figuring it out in a foreign country.
Read our Central American Packing guides here
Who Are the Best Travel Insurance Companies for Families?
There are plenty of options out there, but here are some of the top-rated travel insurance companies for families:
1. Aviva Travel Insurance
A well-known UK-based insurer offering flexible single-trip and annual policies. Good for families who want comprehensive coverage without breaking the bank.
2. Staysure Travel Insurance
A solid choice for families looking for good medical coverage and travel disruption protection. They also cover a wide range of pre-existing medical conditions.
The Best Travel Insurance Companies for Families and Backpacking?
World Nomads Travel Insurance
Best for: Adventurous families, backpackers, and those planning adrenaline-fueled activities
If your idea of a family holiday involves zip-lining through cloud forests, hiking to remote waterfalls, or snorkeling with sea turtles, World Nomads is a solid pick. They specialise in covering over 150 adventure activities, including:
✅ Hiking at high altitudes
✅ Scuba diving and snorkeling
✅ Surfing and paddleboarding
✅ Whitewater rafting and kayaking
✅ Cycling and mountain biking
Unlike some budget-friendly insurance plans that exclude adventure sports, World Nomads lets you roam freely without worrying if you’re covered.
We still need to do more research on pre excistig conditions with Atty bavinghis seizures but so far this is our favourite.
What We Like:
- Comprehensive adventure coverage – Ideal for families who don’t just lounge by the pool
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance – Access to multilingual support wherever you are
- Flexible policies – Extend coverage while traveling if plans change
- Covers tech & gear – Handy if you’re carrying cameras, drones, or laptops
What to Watch Out For:
Can be pricier than standard insurance – You’re paying for extra adventure coverage
Pre-existing conditions usally not covered – If someone in the family has medical concerns, get in contact and see what the options are.
Perfect for: Families seeking adventure beyond the usual beach and city break, especially if you’re traveling to South America, Southeast Asia, or the mountains of Europe.
Read our South America Packing guides here
Travel Insurance for Children: What You Need to Know
Most family travel insurance policies automatically include children under a certain age, but double-check the fine print. Some things to look out for:
- Age Limits – Some policies cover kids up to 18, while others stop at 16.
- Do They Need Their Own Policy? – If your child is traveling with grandparents or someone else, they may need separate coverage.
- Medical Coverage – Kids get sick at the worst times. Make sure their medical expenses are fully covered.
- Adventure Sports – If your little one is keen on zip-lining or snorkeling, ensure the policy covers these activities.
Best Family Travel Insurance for Different Needs
Best Budget Option: Aviva Travel Insurance – Affordable and solid coverage.
Best for Frequent Travelers: Staysure Annual Travel Insurance – Covers multiple trips per year.
Best for Adventure Travel: World Nomads Travel Insurance – Covers loads of activities and long-term trips.
Best for Medical Coverage: Staysure or Saga – Both offer high medical expense limits and great support.
Final Thoughts: Is Travel Insurance Really Worth It?
Look, no one wants to buy travel insurance, but when you’re traveling with kids, it’s like having a backup plan for the inevitable. It only takes one unexpected incident, an ear infection, lost luggage, or a delayed flight, to make you grateful you got covered.
So, whether you’re booking a quick beach holiday or planning a long-term family adventure, get the insurance. You’ll thank yourself later.
Would you rather spend a smaller fee in the grand scheme of things on insurance or risk a £5,000 medical bill in a foreign hospital? Exactly. Safe travels!
FAQ
Is it cheaper to get travel insurance as a family?
Yes, family travel insurance is often cheaper than buying separate policies for each member. Many insurers offer discounted group rates and even free coverage for children when included in an adult’s policy. However, prices vary depending on factors like age, destination, and coverage level, so it’s always best to compare policies from providers like Aviva, Staysure, Saga, and World Nomads before booking.
does family travel insurance cover individuals
Yes, most family travel insurance policies cover individuals within the group. This means if one family member needs to claim (e.g., for medical treatment or trip cancellation), they can do so without it affecting the entire policy. However, some insurers have restrictions on solo travel under a family policy, so always check the terms—especially if one parent or child plans to travel separately. Providers like Staysure, Aviva, and World Nomads offer flexible family policies that cater to different travel situations.
Is world nomad travel insurance good
Yes, World Nomads travel insurance is a solid choice, especially for adventurous travelers and families who enjoy outdoor activities. It covers over 150 adventure sports like hiking, scuba diving, and skiing—things many standard policies exclude. Plus, it offers flexible coverage, allowing you to extend your policy while traveling. However, it can be pricier than basic plans, so if you’re just planning a relaxed family beach trip, a provider like Aviva or Staysure might be a better fit. Always compare policies to find the best coverage for your trip.
Is world nomad travel insurance family friendly
World Nomads is great for adventurous families who love activities like hiking, diving, and road-tripping. It offers coverage for kids when traveling with parents, emergency medical assistance, and protection for gear like cameras and laptops. However, it’s not the cheapest option and doesn’t offer specific family discounts like some providers. If you’re planning a more relaxed holiday, you might find Staysure or Aviva better suited for budget-friendly family coverage.
