What is sports travel insurance?

MoneySuperMarket does not offer specialist policies specifically designed for sports. However, some of the standard travel insurance policies available through our comparison service may include cover that's relevant to your needs. We recommend checking policy details carefully to make sure the cover meets your specific requirements.

Key takeaways

• Many standard travel insurance policies cover some holiday activities as standard, but exclusions vary between providers

• You may need an add-on for activities considered higher risk, such as rock climbing, scuba diving or certain types of cycling

• Winter sports usually need separate cover, even if you already have travel insurance

• Always check the policy wording before taking part, including activity limits, equipment cover and exclusions

What is sports travel insurance?

A travel sports add-on policy, also referred to as adventurous activities cover, or activity cover, extends your travel insurance to cover activities that may not be included as standard.

This includes certain higher-risk sports, such as:

• Rock climbing

• Bungee jumping

• White-water rafting

• Paragliding

• Zip lining

• Scuba diving

• Mountain biking

The activities included depend on the insurer, so check the list carefully before buying.

Do I need sports cover for my holiday? 

You will most likely need extra cover if:

• Involves a higher level of risk

• Takes place at height or underwater

• Requires specialist equipment

• Is part of a competition or organised event

• Is not included in your insurer’s standard activity list

For example, a casual swim may be covered, while deep-sea diving or competitive racing may need additional cover.

What sports and activities does standard travel insurance cover?

Many travel insurance policies include cover for a range of lower-risk activities at no extra cost. These include things like:

• Swimming

• Snorkelling

• Hiking at lower altitudes

• Cycling (depending on the type)

• Tennis

• Golf

• Football played recreationally

Many single-trip travel insurance policies include cover for popular water sports as standard, although it varies by activity. Always check your policy before taking part.

What does sports travel insurance cover?

Specialist sports travel insurance or sports add-ons can vary, but may include:

What does sports travel insurance not cover?

Policies differ, but common exclusions may include:

How much does sports travel insurance cost?

The cost depends on factors including:

• Your destination

• Your age

• The activities you plan to do

• The level of cover required

• Whether you need equipment cover

• The length of your trip

Higher-risk activities generally cost more to insure because they can increase the chance of needing medical treatment.

Does sports travel insurance cover competitions and events?

Yes, if you’re taking part in an organised event, such as a marathon, cycling race or triathlon, sports cover typically includes these events but check your policy carefully.

You're usually covered for things like race entry fees, sports equipment and injuries during the event.

Professional sportspersons may need specialist insurance designed for their circumstances.

Does sports travel insurance cover team sports or group travel?

If you’re travelling as part of a team or group, check whether your policy covers:

• Taking part in organised matches or competitions

• Team equipment

• Cancellation if you cannot attend

• Medical treatment while participating

Group travel policies may also have different rules around activities and equipment.

Are winter sports covered with sports cover?

Winter sports usually require a separate add-on from standard sports travel insurance policy and will cover you for activities such as skiing and snowboarding.

It typically offers cover for lost or damaged ski equipment, ski pass costs, piste closures, and delays caused by bad weather.

Can I get sports travel insurance with a pre-existing condition?

You’ll need to declare any pre-existing medical conditions when buying travel insurance.

Some activities may also affect the type of cover available, so tell your insurer about your medical conditions and the activities you're planning to do.

Is there an age restriction with sports travel insurance add ons? 

Age limits will vary between insurers. If you are over 65, you will probably need to pay more. If you have travel insurance with a packaged bank account, check the age limit before going skiing or taking part in any other winter sport. 

What sports and activities may need extreme sports cover?

In some cases, a sports cover add-on won't cover certain high-risk sports and activities. Examples of activities that often need specialist extreme sports cover include:

• Scuba diving beyond certain depths

• Rock climbing

• Mountaineering

• Paragliding

• Motorsport

• White-water rafting

• Cross-country skiing

• Mountain biking

• Marathon and endurance events

The exact rules differ between insurers, so don’t assume an activity is covered just because another provider includes it.

What information do I need to get a quote?

You’ll usually need:

• Your destination

• Travel dates

• Your age

• Details of any medical conditions

• The activities you plan to take part in

• The value of any equipment you want covered

Can I add sports travel cover after buying my policy?

Yes, many insurers let you add sports travel cover after you've bought your policy, as long as it's before your trip starts. However, rules vary by insurer, so check your policy or contact your provider to see if you can add it and when it needs to be arranged.

How do I find cheap travel insurance that covers adventurous activities?

MoneySuperMarket’s holiday cover comparison tool is a quick and easy way to compare hundreds of policies from dozens of insurers and see what activities they do and don't cover.

Simply provide a few details about yourself and your trip and find quotes from as little as 92p^{^} per day.