Travel Insurance Lab
Travel Insurance Lab is an independent educational resource for people comparing travel insurance, preparing for a trip and organising the documents they may need if plans change. We explain common policy terms in plain English so travellers and small organisations can make a more informed shortlist before contacting an insurer.
Use the Travel Policy Excess Calculator to compare two example policy costs using your own premium, excess and possible claim figures.
Start with the trip, not the sales headline
The right travel insurance questions depend on where you are going, how long you will be away, who is travelling and what you have already booked. A policy comparison should begin with the trip details: destination, dates, transport, accommodation, activities, pre-existing medical conditions and the value of non-refundable arrangements. A low headline price does not tell you whether the policy fits those facts.
What our guides cover
Our guides explain cancellation and curtailment questions, medical and emergency assistance wording, baggage and delay records, travel disruption evidence, activity exclusions and the practical information often needed when contacting a provider. We also cover small-business and family travel planning, including how to keep a shared record of bookings, policy documents and emergency contacts.
Build a simple travel file
Before departure, keep a secure copy of booking confirmations, policy wording, receipts, passport or identity details, prescribed medication information and important contact numbers. Do not publish confidential information on a public website. A dated folder can make it easier to explain a problem if a booking is changed, a bag is delayed or a claim question arises.
Read exclusions as carefully as benefits
Insurance wording differs between providers. Pay attention to exclusions, excesses, eligibility conditions, notification deadlines, documentation requirements and the way the policy treats alcohol, activities, missed departures and pre-existing conditions. If a term is unclear, ask the insurer or a qualified adviser before relying on the cover.
Travel Policy Excess Calculator
Compare two example policies using your own figures. The calculator estimates premium plus the excess you could pay if the entered loss became one covered claim. It does not quote insurance or predict a claim decision.
The estimate uses: annual premium + possible claims × the lower of the entered loss and excess. It ignores exclusions, limits, taxes, assistance rules and policy-specific definitions. Read the current policy wording before buying cover.
Educational information only
Travel Insurance Lab does not sell insurance, underwrite policies or decide whether a claim will be accepted. Our articles and calculator are general educational information and are not financial, legal or medical advice. The calculator does not guarantee savings, cover or a claim result. Always read the current policy wording and obtain advice about your own circumstances.
Explore the Lab
Use our travel insurance guides to prepare questions, organise records and compare the features that matter to your trip. Start with the Services page for research topics, then review the Disclaimer and Privacy Policy before submitting any general enquiry.
Plan carefully, read the wording and keep your records together.