Does travel insurance cover trekking and hiking?

We do not currently show quotes for specialised trekking and hiking insurance at MoneySuperMarket, but some of our travel insurers may cover it as standard or as an add-on.

Key takeaways

• Standard travel insurance usually covers hiking up to 2,000m. Above that, or for multi-day treks, camping, ropes, or remote terrain, you'll usually need add-on or specialist cover.

• Specialist trekking insurers cover much higher altitudes (up to 6,000m in some cases) and typically include search and rescue as standard.

• Pre-existing conditions don't rule out trekking cover — you can usually still get insured, but you may pay a higher premium.

Does standard travel insurance cover trekking and hiking?

Standard travel insurance can cover hiking and trekking, but it depends on the policy and the type of walking you plan to do.

As a rule of thumb, travel insurance will usually cover hiking and trekking at up to altitudes of 2,000m. If you plan to hike higher than this, check the policy wording before you buy cover.

If you're planning a long-distance walking holiday, check that the full route and planned activities are covered before you buy your policy.

For a straightforward walking holiday on established trails, standard travel insurance may be enough. For a more challenging trek, specialist activity cover could be needed.

Which insurers offer trekking as standard?

Most travel insurers offer trekking as standard up to specified altitude limits.

For example:

• Admiral covers trekking up to 4,000m as standard, and up to 4,500m as an add-on

• Holiday Extras covers trekking up to 2,500m as standard

• RAC covers trekking up to 2,000m as standard

• Virgin Money covers trekking up to 2,000m as standard

Information correct as of 26 August 2026

Do I need specialist trekking and hiking insurance?

You might need specialist insurance for hiking and trekking if you plan to:

• Trek at altitudes above 2,000 m

• Take part in a multi-day trek with overnight camping

• Use ropes or specialised climbing equipment

• Take part in mountaineering or rock climbing

• Trek in remote or particularly difficult terrain

Which insurers offer specialised trekking cover?

Here are some examples of specialist insurers that cover trekking. When buying a policy, check it covers the hiking or trekking you plan to do.

• Snowcard – specialises in trekking, mountaineering, climbing and other adventure activities; it covers trekking up to 6,000 m and includes search and rescue as standard.

• British Mountaineering Council (BMC) Travel Insurance – offers policies for trekkers, hill walkers, climbers and mountaineers; its Trek policy covers trekking and backpacking up to 5,000 m, with higher-altitude options available.

• True Traveller – offers specialist trekking cover, including high-altitude trekking; its activity packs cover trekking up to 3,000 m as standard, up to 4,600 m with the Adventure Pack, and above 4,600 m with the Extreme Adventure Pack.

What does specialist trekking insurance cover?

Specialist travel insurance can offer cover for areas that might be excluded from a standard policy. These include:

• Rescue costs

• Medical emergencies

• Repatriation

• Lost or damaged equipment

• Tour cancellations

• Worldwide search and rescue

• Most insurers also offer a 24-hour emergency assistance helpline for policyholders

What isn’t covered by trekking and hiking insurance?

While trekking and hiking insurance policies offer more comprehensive cover than standard travel insurance, they will still often come with the following exclusions:

• Being under the influence: Injuries resulting from being under the influence of alcohol or drugs are unlikely to be covered for medical treatment.

• Being careless: If you’re injured or lose your belongings due to carelessness or negligence, such as leaving items unattended, you will not be able to claim.

• Taking part in uninsured activities: Even with a trekking and hiking policy, you’ll still need extra cover for other activities like climbing, skiing or watersports

• Expensive belongings: Your policy will have a single-item value limit, and items that exceed this will likely need extra protection.

• Travelling against advice: If you travel against medical or official government advice, your insurer will likely void your policy

Will I be covered for trekking with a pre-existing medical condition?

You should still be able to find cover for trekking and hiking with a pre-existing medical condition, but this is likely to increase your total cost of cover.

Things to consider for trekking and hiking holidays

Hiking and trekking are great ways to enjoy the outdoors, stay active and see places at your own pace. But whether you’re heading out for a day walk or a multi-day trek, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some things to consider before you set off:

• Check the distance and altitude: Make sure your travel insurance covers the distance and maximum altitude you plan to hike or trek. Some policies have strict limits.

• Stick to recognised trails and routes: Some insurers only provide cover if you stay on recognised paths or established routes. Check the policy wording if you plan to go off-trail.

• Look for search and rescue cover: A good policy should cover search and rescue costs if you get lost, injured or caught in dangerous conditions. This could include the cost of a helicopter rescue, which may not be covered by standard medical expenses cover.

• Check the rules for solo trekking: Some policies may have conditions around organised activities or require you to trek with a guide or group. If you’re travelling alone, make sure solo hiking is covered.

• Check the weather forecast: Weather can change quickly in the mountains and other exposed areas. If severe weather is forecast, consider postponing your walk or choosing a safer route.

• Tell someone your plans: Let someone know where you’re going, your planned route and when you expect to return. If you’re staying in a hotel, hostel or campsite, you could also tell the staff about your plans.

• Take the right equipment: Wear suitable footwear and clothing and carry the equipment you need for the conditions. If you’re taking expensive or specialist equipment, check whether your travel insurance covers it if it is lost, stolen or damaged.

• Check what happens if you need to be evacuated: If you become ill or injured in a remote area, you may need to be taken to a hospital before being brought home. Check that your policy covers mountain rescue, emergency evacuation and medical repatriation where appropriate.

Where can I find travel insurance that covers hiking?

You can use MoneySuperMarket to compare travel insurance policies from a range of leading UK providers. Some will include hiking as standard and some will allow you to purchase an add-on that covers more adventurous activities.