Do I need travel insurance?
Checked against gov.uk on 7 October 2026
We strongly recommend it and on some trips we ask to see it. It isn't included in your ticket. Add ours from your account, priced by trip length, or use your own policy. A GHIC doesn't count.
Do this
- Sort it when you book. Cancellation cover only helps if it was in place before the thing that stops you travelling.
- Declare existing conditions. Leaving one out can void the whole policy.
- Keep the policy and the claims number on your phone. We may ask to see the policy in the two weeks before departure or when you meet the trip leader.
MedicalIncluding private clinics and being flown home. That's the expensive one.
CancellationClaim back what you paid us if you can't go for a covered reason.
14 daysCooling-off on our add-on if you haven't travelled or claimed.
More detail
Using your own policy
Fine. Check it covers the country, the whole trip including travel days, and any activities on the itinerary. A parent’s policy that names you works too.
Does it cover a visa refusal?
Almost never. Apply early.
Is it compulsory?
Recommended on every trip, required for a Schengen visa, and on some trips with activities it’s a condition of travel; the trip page says so.
Sources: gov.uk: foreign travel insurance. Rules belong to the governments and airlines that set them and they change; their page is the final word.
Still not sure? Email contact@unilifeuk.com with your trip name.All questions