Does travel insurance cover motorbikes?

Key takeaways

• Motorcycle travel insurance can provide cover for a variety of things, including medical expenses, repatriation, and cancellation

• The level of cover you need will depend on your individual needs and the type of trip you are taking

• When choosing motorcycle travel insurance, be sure to compare policies carefully and make sure you understand the exclusions

What is motorcycle travel insurance?

Motorcycle travel insurance offers cover if you plan to ride a motorcycle while travelling abroad, whether it's on your own bike or a hired one.

Do I need motorcycle travel insurance?

Your existing motorcycle insurance or travel policies might cover you for riding abroad for small motorcycles or scooters up to 125cc. But you might also need additional cover.

You need at least third-party cover as a legal requirement. Whether you need extra cover will depend on your provider, your destination and the nature of your trip.

If you aren’t fully protected then a motorcycle travel insurance policy can provide extra cover for activities such as touring, participating in track days, off-roading, or embarking on extensive road trips.

Am I already covered for riding my motorbike abroad?

If you already have a motorcycle insurance policy, your provider will likely offer the option of adding cover for riding abroad – just be sure to check exactly how, where, and when you’re allowed to use your bike.

A European breakdown cover policy will provide cover for the cost of roadside assistance you might need if your bike breaks down in Europe.

Some travel insurance policies include add-ons such as hiring a motorcycle while travelling. Keep in mind there may be restrictions on what type of bike you can hire.

Does travel insurance cover motorcycle accidents?

Yes, many travel insurance policies include cover for motorcycle accidents abroad and help with medical treatment costs, provided you meet the policy conditions.

However, your insurer may reject claims if:

• you don’t hold the correct licence

• you ride without a helmet

• you exceed engine-size restrictions (typically 125cc)

• you break local road laws

• you ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Always read your policy wording carefully before travelling.

Does motorcycle insurance cover travel abroad?

Your regular motorcycle insurance may include an add-on policy for riding abroad, but it's important to be aware of the specifics:

• Where you can ride: Policies often cover the EU and EEA, but worldwide coverage may require specialist insurance.

• How long you can ride abroad: There may be limits on the number of days covered.

• What type of cover you need: At least third-party insurance is required in the EU and EEA.

• What documents you need: Carry insurance papers, driving licence, and breakdown cover details, but a Green Card is not needed for the EU and EEA.

What does motorcycle travel insurance usually cover?

Cover varies between policies, but may include:

Medical expenses

• emergency treatment

• surgery

• hospital stays

• medication

Emergency repatriation

• transport back to the UK

• medical escort costs

• emergency flights

Trip cancellation or curtailment

• cancelled holidays

• returning home early after injury

Personal belongings

• baggage

• riding gear

• travel documents

Personal liability

• claims made against you for injury or property damage

Policy limits and exclusions will apply.

What usually isn’t covered?

Most policies will not cover:

• breakdown cover (you usually have to add this separately)

• illegal riding

• riding without a licence

• alcohol or drug-related incidents

• racing or competitive events without specialist cover

What levels of motorcycle insurance can I take out?

Insurers will usually offer different levels of cover. These are the options you are usually able to choose from:

• Third-party only: Covers damage to others but not your own motorcycle

• Third-party, fire and theft: Includes third-party cover plus theft and fire damage to your bike

• Fully comprehensive: A fully comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy covers you for everything mentioned above, as well as providing additional protection for your own bike if you’re in an accident

What does specialist motorcycle travel insurance cover?

For those engaging in more adventurous or specialised biking activities, specialist motorcycle travel insurance may be necessary. This type of insurance is tailored for track days, racing, touring, off-road biking, and adventure sports.

How much does travel motorcycle insurance cost?

Travel motorcycle insurance costs typically range from £200 to £500 within the UK. Single trip policies can cost between 4% - 10% of the trip's total cost.

Our customers pay £15.22^{^} on average for a single trip policy with no add-ons.

Can I add extra cover to my motorcycle insurance policy?

Yes, many providers offer optional add-ons to enhance your policy:

• Pillion cover for carrying passengers

• Cover for the theft, loss, or damage of helmets or leathers

• Baggage and accessories cover for items on your motorcycle

• Breakdown cover for roadside assistance

Remember that adding these extras is likely to increase your premiums.

How much cover will I need on my motorcycle travel insurance policy?

Typical recommended cover levels include:

Healthcare costs can be particularly high in countries such as the USA.

How long will I be covered by my motorcycle travel insurance?

Standard policies may limit coverage to 30-90 days. For longer trips, consider touring cover for up to 180 days.

Will motorcycle travel insurance cover me for renting and using my own bike?

Policies can cover both renting and using your own bike, but check for limits on protection.

What countries are covered by motorcycle travel insurance?

Cover is usually available for safe destinations, with three levels: European, Worldwide excluding, and including the USA, Canada, and the Caribbean. Insurers are unlikely to offer cover for any countries which have been subject to an “all-but-essential-travel” warning by the FCDO. Make sure to check travel advice on gov.uk before you book your trip.

Safety tips for taking your motorcycle abroad

Safety should always be your top priority and avoiding incidents is always better than having to make an insurance claim. There are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of being injured or having an accident:

• Wear a helmet and protective clothing.

• Read the road ahead and be cautious around bends.

• Check blind spots, especially when driving on the opposite side of the road.

• Avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.