Brexit Update: What Does the Future Hold?

Travel after 31 January 2020

Ironically, despite being closer to Brexit than ever before, there seems to be less hype than usual around the subject. UK Parliament seems on track to ratify the Withdrawal Agreement before 31 January 2020. If it does, the UK will leave the EU on this date and enter into an ‘implementation period’ or ‘transition period’ until at least the end of December 2020.

What does this mean for Travel and Travel Insurance? Guidance from The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is that things won’t change during the transition period and you can continue to travel as you do now until the end of December 2020. Trains, planes and coaches will still operate; rules on taking pets abroad don’t change; you wont need an International Drivers Permit or Green Card for your car insurance; and EHIC will still operate. All reassuring news indeed for travellers.

The sad fact is that we still don’t know the impact of Brexit on travel and travel insurance after the implementation period. It’s well worth buying your travel insurance before it ends to avoid the risk of Brexit and travel insurance uncertainty.

The UK offers more Travel Insurance choices than any other country with products among the most reliable and best in the world. If you are an EU resident, you may have less options after the implementation period because UK based providers may not retain their current permission to sell to EU residents.

Limiting choice is not good for consumers, so buy your travel insurance, or renew your Annual Multi Trip Policy in good time.

What travel insurance cover should I buy?

Everyone’s travel insurance requirements are different, but always look beyond the headlines so you get it right.

We all need the essentials, like Emergency Medical Expense cover that includes and Repatriation, with a 24 Hour Assistance Helpline.

Also think about luggage value. You may be surprised how it adds up. Be aware of ‘single article limits’ – this may be less than some of your items. Check the ‘total valuable limit’ – your accumulated valuables could exceed this.

Read also: Exclusions Relating to Health and Medical Conditions – Should You Worry?

Think about any special requirements such as pre-existing medical conditions. It is imperative that you comply with the Travel Insurance provider’s medical declaration requirements.

What activities will you do while away? Whether it is snorkelling, archery, bungee jumping, black water rafting, diving or trekking, check you are covered. You are more at risk of injury while participating. Globelink covers over 100 Adventure Activities for free.

Considering a cruise?

Cruise holidays are more popular than ever, so don’t miss a trick when searching for travel insurance. Tour operators inevitably charge more than necessary, while many travel insurance companies make you pay extra for the privilege of cruise cover. Look out for travel insurance providers who offer Free Cruise Cover as standard, like Globelink. That way you’re covered if tempted by a cruise trip option.

Already travelled and forgotten to buy travel insurance?

If you or your loved ones have travelled without insurance, all is not lost. A few companies still offer Already Travelling Insurance, so you can get cover even when your trip has already started. That’s another good reason why it is worth investing in Annual Multi Trip cover, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting your Travel Insurance next time!

Wherever you travel always check FCO’s travel advice to help you stay safe and buy a decent travel insurance policy.

Read also: Do You Miss These Tricks When Searching for a Travel Insurance Policy?