Insuring a cycling trip
When you’re on holiday, it’s always wise to take out travel insurance – and cycling holidays are no different
Key takeaways
Standard travel insurance may not cover cycling-specific accidents
Policies vary depending on the region you're visiting
A high single item limit will cover the cost of your bike in case of crashes or theft
Cycling holidays are a unique blend of adventure, fitness, and exploration. They offer a refreshing way to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of a destination while staying active.
The freedom to explore winding country roads or challenging mountain trails, the exhilaration of fresh air, and the rewarding physical exertion make for a truly unforgettable experience. However, the adventure does come with its share of risks and uncertainties.
From minor accidents and medical emergencies to theft of belongings, there are several unforeseen challenges that could turn your dream holiday into a nightmare. Thankfully, standard travel insurance provides a certain level of cover for these mishaps, offering a safety net for your journey.
Not all standard travel cover extends to cycling holidays. If you're planning such an adventure a more specialised insurance product may be necessary.
The Need for Specialised Cycling Insurance
Cycling travel insurance is a niche insurance product that offers comprehensive protection for cycle enthusiasts on holiday. It covers a wide range of scenarios, from bike-related mishaps like lost pannier bags and cracked forks to essential travel concerns such as medical costs, travel cancellations, and passport theft.
Whether you're planning a leisurely cross-country tour or participating in a short race meet, cycling holidays can take various forms. Each offers its own unique set of challenges and risks, many of which aren't covered by standard insurance policies.
Cycling holiday insurance fills this gap, offering coverage for activities like racing and mountain biking that standard policies typically exclude.
What's Covered by Cycling Travel Insurance?
Securing the right cycling insurance is crucial to ensuring a worry-free holiday. Here are several features to look out for when insuring your bike holiday:
High single-item limit: This is particularly important if you own an expensive bike. A high limit will cover the cost of your bike in case of crashes or theft. It can also provide coverage for lost gadgets like laptops or GoPros.
Sufficient medical cover: Cycling accidents can lead to hefty medical bills, especially when travelling abroad. A good policy should provide approximately £5m in medical cover.
Destination-specific coverage: Policies vary depending on the region you're visiting. Insurers often divide the world into Europe, the USA, Canada, and the rest of the world.
Extreme sports cover: If your holiday includes activities like mountain biking or racing, you'll need a policy that includes extreme sports cover.
Third-party liability: This protects you against legal claims if you cause an accident that injures someone else.
Recovery cover: If your bike breaks down in a remote area, recovery cover will pay for the cost of rescue.
Replacement bike hire: Should your bike get damaged, this feature ensures you can continue your holiday by hiring a replacement.
Length of policy: Standard policies usually last for 30 days, but if you're planning a longer trip, you can arrange for policies that cover 60 or 90 days.
Finding the Right Cover for Your Cycling Holiday
Choosing the right travel insurance for your cycling holiday can make a significant difference in your overall experience. It's advisable to shop around and compare different policies to ensure you're getting the best deal.
While MoneySuperMarket works with dozens of travel insurers, we do not offer cover for cycling holidays specifically. Therefore, looking at other providers is necessary to ensure you're fully covered.
Cycling holidays offer an exciting blend of adventure and fitness, but they also come with certain risks. By choosing a specialist cycling travel insurance policy, you can ensure you're covered for any mishaps that may occur, leaving you free to enjoy the ride.
