Travel Insurance Guide for Portugal

Get ready for Portugal

Portugal has quietly become a beloved European destination for UK travellers. Whether you’re exploring the tiled streets of Lisbon, cruising the Douro Valley by boat, or watching the sun go down over the Algarve, Portugal rarely disappoints.

The country also includes two stunning island territories: Madeira and the Azores. Both are part of Portugal and are popular in their own right, offering a different kind of experience to the mainland. This guide covers the highlights of each region, practical information on costs and getting around, and everything you need to know about travel insurance before you set off.

In this guide:

Places to go and things to do
How much do things cost in Portugal?
Do you need travel insurance for Portugal?
What travel insurance does and doesn’t cover
Getting around
Entry requirements
Staying safe
Why Post Office?
Key takeaways
Common questions about travel to Portugal

Get a travel insurance quote in minutes

Start now

Places to go and things to do in Portugal

Portugal has a great combination of beautiful city architecture and natural beach scenery, and is compact enough to experience both in the same trip. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Lisbon

Portugal’s capital is one of Europe’s great cities. Picture trams that rattle up steep cobbled streets, blue-and-white azulejo tiles adorning the facades of old buildings and neighbourhoods that shift in feel from one block to the next. Alfama, the oldest district, is a maze of winding alleys where Fado music floats from the windows of small restaurants. Belém, further west along the riverfront, is where explorers once set sail, and the historic tower and monastery here are among Portugal’s most visited landmarks. The food scene is exceptional, whether you want affordable street treats or fine dining, the city has enough fresh produce to do both.

The Algarve

The Algarve draws more British tourists than anywhere else in Portugal, and it’s not hard to see why. The southern coast offers over 300 days of sunshine per year, a string of excellent beaches and a well-developed tourist infrastructure that makes it easy to get around. The region is not all beach resorts, though. The clifftop formations around Lagos, particularly at Ponta da Piedade, offer spectacular views. Inland, the Serra de Monchique mountains offer good hiking and a cooler alternative to the coast.

Porto

Portugal’s second city is smaller than Lisbon but arguably just as captivating. Porto sits at the mouth of the Douro River and is most famous for two things: its dramatic riverside Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the port wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia directly across the water. A tasting tour of the lodges is one of the great pleasures of a visit. Beyond wine, Porto has a thriving arts and music scene, magnificent bookshops, and a food culture centred on hearty northern cuisine.

Sintra

Just 40 minutes by train from Lisbon, Sintra feels like a different world. The Serra de Sintra, a wooded ridge running along the Atlantic coast, is dotted with palaces, castles and estates commissioned by Portuguese royalty over several centuries. The most spectacular is the Palácio Nacional da Pena, a Romantic fantasy perched on a crag above the town that is painted in vivid yellow and red.

The Douro Valley

One of the great wine regions of the world, the Douro Valley is a UNESCO-listed landscape of extraordinary beauty. The terraced vineyards that climb the steep valley walls have been cultivated for centuries and produce the grapes used in port as well as an increasingly acclaimed range of table wines. River cruises along the Douro are among the best ways to take in the scenery, stopping at quintas (estates) along the way for tastings. For those who prefer to travel independently, the valley is accessible by train or car from Porto and makes an excellent multi-day trip.

The Minho

The Minho is a rural landscape of swooping river valleys, picturesque towns and hidden beaches. The region has no shortage of vineyards, so you can treat yourself to a delicious local wine after a long day of walking. For those who like to wild swim, there are numerous natural pools you can cool off in on a hot day.

Madeira

Madeira often conjures thoughts of cake and wine, which is certainly no bad thing, but the island offers so much more. Lying in the Atlantic Ocean around 1,000 kilometres southwest of Lisbon, its mild climate and lush scenery make it popular all year round. Outside of the lively capital Funchal, the island is defined by its dramatic volcanic topography: steep cliffs, deep ravines and the famous levadas, a network of narrow irrigation channels that double as walking routes. More adventurous visitors come for the canyoning, mountain biking and paragliding.

The Azores

The Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic islands roughly 1,500 kilometres west of Lisbon, out in the mid-Atlantic. São Miguel is the largest and most visited, home to the stunning twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades and numerous hot springs. The islands are increasingly popular with travellers seeking active outdoor experiences: whale watching, diving, hiking on volcanic peaks and surfing are all widely available. Because the islands are further from mainland Europe than most European destinations, medical facilities are more limited than in Lisbon or Porto. This makes comprehensive travel insurance even more important, particularly if you plan to take part in adventure activities.

Is Madeira in Europe for travel insurance?

Yes. Madeira and the Azores are autonomous regions of Portugal and are part of the European Union. Both are included under a European travel insurance policy, so you do not need to purchase worldwide cover to visit them. At Post Office, both Madeira and the Azores are included within our European cover.

Do you need travel insurance for Portugal?

The FCDO recommends all UK travellers get appropriate travel insurance before visiting Portugal. Healthcare costs can mount quickly, even within Europe. A stay in a Portuguese hospital, an emergency evacuation from a remote part of the Azores, or a cancelled flight due to bad weather can all result in significant out-of-pocket costs. Travel insurance can help protect you against these costs, allowing you to claim back should certain unfortunate incidents occur.

If you tend to go away more than once a year, you might want to consider annual multi-trip cover. This gives you the same level of cover for an unlimited number of trips (31 days each or less) across the year. Not only does it mean you don’t have to sort out travel insurance every time you go on holiday, but it can often be cheaper than getting multiple single-trip cover policies within 12 months.

Whichever option you go for, once you’ve got insurance sorted you can focus on the more fun parts of planning your holiday, safe in the knowledge you have some protection in place.

The GHIC in Portugal

UK travellers can apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which entitles you to state-provided healthcare in Portugal at the same cost as a local resident. This can be useful for treatment during your stay. However, a GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It won’t cover private healthcare, and if you’re in an emergency situation, you may not be able to direct an ambulance or taxi driver to a state hospital as opposed to a private one.

It also doesn’t cover medical repatriation back to the UK, which can be one of the most expensive medical costs if you’re involved in something serious. There’s a strong case for travel insurance on medical reasons alone, but when you consider the costs of trip cancellation, lost baggage and more, insurance becomes even more valuable. You can find out more in our GHIC guide.

Ready to get covered?

Get a quote

How much do things cost in Portugal?

Portugal is generally good value by western European standards, though Lisbon and Porto have become noticeably more expensive in recent years. The Algarve varies widely depending on how far you stray from the main resort areas. The islands tend to be slightly pricier than the mainland due to the costs of importing goods.

Portugal’s currency is the euro. Here are some examples of average costs in Lisbon, based on data from Numbeo (accurate as of April 2026):

Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant, no drinks): approx €45 (£39.14)
Regular cappuccino: approx €1.80 (£1.54)
One-way local transport ticket: approx €2 (£1.73)

Post Office can help you get your euros sorted before your trip. With our prepaid travel money card you can load euros in advance and spend abroad without conversion fees. You can also order cash online for collection at a branch or home delivery.

What travel insurance does and doesn’t cover

Post Office Travel Insurance is there to support you when things don’t go to plan. Depending on your policy, you can be covered for:

Medical treatment abroad: If you become ill or are injured while away, your policy can help with treatment costs and getting you home if emergency care is needed, up to the limits in your policy. You also get access to 24/7 outpatient support , so you can speak to a medical professional via video call or in person
Personal belongings: Cover can include items that are lost, stolen or damaged, such as luggage, travel documents or cash. Limits apply and you must report the incident to the police within 48 hours. A police report is required to make a claim
Travel delays and missed departures: If your international transport is delayed or you miss it for a reason covered by your policy, you may be able to claim back certain additional costs. Check your policy for what’s included and any limits
Trip cancellation or early return: If you need to cancel your trip or cut it short for a reason listed in your policy, you can claim for unused travel and accommodation, up to the policy limits
Personal accident and legal expenses: Your policy can also provide cover for personal accident claims and help with legal costs. Limits apply and are set out in your policy

You can choose from economy, standard or premier cover, depending on the level of protection you want.

Optional extras

Depending on what you plan to do in Portugal, you may want to consider adding extra cover to your policy. Limits and terms apply to the following add-ons, all of which can be found in our policy documentation online:

Trip disruption cover: Protecting you against events that disrupt your trip, including strikes, terrorism, natural catastrophes, airspace disruption and adverse weather events
Gadget cover: Increasing the amount of cover available for smartphones, as well as tablets, laptops and cameras
Winter sports cover: If you plan to ski or snowboard (available on Madeira’s highest peaks in season)
Cruise cover: A mandatory requirement by most cruise operators covering specific cruise-related occurrences
Excess waiver: Removes the standard policy excess from any claim

What’s not covered

There are some situations that a standard travel insurance policy will not cover. These include:

Pre-existing medical conditions that have not been declared and screened as part of your policy
Certain high-risk adventure sports and activities, a list of which can be found on our policy documentation
Travelling against FCDO advice or breaking local laws or customs
Incidents that occur under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Missed flights due to personal error, such as oversleeping

You can find our full policy wording on our make a claim page which outlines exactly what is and isn’t covered, as well as any limits involved.

Getting around

Flights: Portugal is well served from UK airports. Direct flights operate to Lisbon, Porto, Faro (for the Algarve) and Funchal (Madeira) from multiple UK airports. The Azores is served by direct flights from London, though the schedule is less frequent than for the mainland. Journey times to Lisbon and Porto from London are around two to two and a half hours
Trains: Portugal has a reliable and affordable rail network connecting Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. The Alfa Pendular high-speed service runs between Lisbon and Porto in under three hours. Trains are generally the most comfortable way to travel between the main cities
Buses: Long-distance coach services connect towns and cities across Portugal and are often cheaper than trains. They are particularly useful for reaching smaller towns in the Alentejo and the north that are not well served by rail
Car hire: A hire car gives you the most flexibility, particularly in the Algarve, the Alentejo and on Madeira. Roads are generally good, though mountain roads on Madeira and in the Azores can be narrow and winding. Drive on the right
Within Lisbon and Porto: Both cities have good public transport networks including metro, trams and buses. Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams are a tourist attraction in themselves, though they can get very crowded. Ridesharing apps are widely available in both cities

Entry requirements

UK citizens do not need a visa to visit Portugal for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) may require you to perform biometric registration at the border. There are no costs associated with this and you do not need to prepare anything in advance, but it can mean you spend longer in the airport than in the past.

Staying safe in Portugal

Portugal is a very safe country for tourists. Violent crime is rare and the country regularly features near the top of global peace indices. That said, petty theft and pickpocketing are a concern in busy tourist areas, particularly in Lisbon’s Alfama district, on the city’s trams and at popular coastal spots in the Algarve.

Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and on public transport
Use hotel safes for passports, spare cash and valuables
Avoid leaving anything visible in a parked car
Be cautious of distraction techniques used by pickpockets in tourist hotspots

Natural hazards worth being aware of include wildfires, which can affect inland areas of Portugal during hot, dry summers. Check local news and FCDO updates if you are travelling during the summer months, particularly if you plan to hike or drive in rural areas. On Madeira and in the Azores, occasional storms and, very rarely, seismic activity may affect travel plans. Trip disruption cover provides protection against these kinds of events.

Always check the FCDO travel advice for Portugal before you depart.

Why choose Post Office Travel Insurance?

We’re an award-winning provider,²with our Premier cover being 5-star rated by Defaqto
We’ve paid out over £79 million in claims over the past five years
We consider all pre-existing medical conditions as part of our screening process and will refer you to another insurer if we can’t cover you due to medical reasons
Medical Assistance Plus gives you access to a 24/7 English-speaking GP¹ by video call for non-emergency health queries while you’re away
Both single-trip and annual multi-trip policies available, with annual cover a cost-effective option if you plan on multiple trips within the same year
Add on additional cover to suit your trip for an extra premium. Create a policy which fits your holiday

Key takeaways

Portugal is a very safe, welcoming destination for UK travellers, and travel insurance is recommended by the FCDO so you can focus on enjoying your trip
Madeira and the Azores are part of Portugal and are included under a European travel insurance policy
A GHIC gives you access to state healthcare in Portugal but does not replace travel insurance
Always declare pre-existing medical conditions when you take out a policy to make sure you are properly covered

Put cover in place for your Portugal adventure today

Get a quote

Common questions about travel to Portugal

Travel insurance is recommended by the FCDO for all visitors to Portugal. Without cover, you could face significant costs if you need emergency medical treatment, are hospitalised, or need to cancel or cut short your trip. Given how affordable a policy can be relative to the overall cost of a holiday, the case for having one is strong.
Yes. Madeira and Porto Santo are autonomous regions of Portugal and are part of the European Union, so they are included under a European travel insurance policy. You do not need to purchase worldwide cover. At Post Office, both islands fall within our European policy.
Yes. At Post Office, we consider all pre-existing medical conditions as part of our screening process. You will need to declare any conditions when you take out your policy. We can’t support all medical conditions, but if we’re not able to offer you a policy, we’ll refer you to a specialist provider that might be able to help.
The cost of a policy depends on a number of factors, including the level of cover you choose, the length of your trip, your age, and whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions. The best way to find out is to get a quote, which you can do quickly and easily online.

Footnotes

¹ Medical Assistance Plus is not available for trips taken in the UK, only for international travel. The service allows up to 3 separate medical events per person listed on the policy, and up to 3 appointments per event. All appointment charges are covered by your travel insurance policy. You will not need to pay any excess fees for this service. You may need to pay for your prescription upfront and claim on your return home.

² Post Office has won the following awards:
Post Office won a “Best Travel Insurance Provider” award at the Your Money Awards in 2022, 2023, 2025 and 2026.
Post Office won a 5-star Money Facts rating for Travel Insurance in 2025.

Related travel products

Foreign currency

Travel money card

Passport check and send

UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

Travel and adventure

Travel insurance guides

a couple relaxing by the sea with a picnic

Winter sun holiday destinations to escape to

Looking to escape the chilly UK winter? Our Winter Sun Survey reveals the top sunny destinations UK travellers are choosing this season. And learn why travel insurance is key for a worry-free holiday in the sun.

women with sunglasses leaning on a colour building

Where is hot in March, April and May?

Spring is a great time to leave the cooler UK and go somewhere sunny. And we can help with that.

Cappadocia with hot air balloons flying around the sky

Turkey travel insurance

A trip to Turkey offers beaches, mountains, distinct cuisine and striking architecture. Discover where to go and how travel insurance can help you make the most of your trip.

a bright sunrise over the cliffs of the Grand Canyon

USA travel insurance

Discover top places to visit, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable USA adventure

Woman wearing hat and backpack at airport looking a departure board at the airport

Safe travels: where can I go on holiday?

Travel’s a great way to unwind, see the world, open the mind and expand horizons. But rapidly changing situations around the world can soon impact such plans.

Beach with sea waves lapping on to beach and a beautiful sunset in the distance

Find hot holiday destinations any time of year

If you're the type of sunchaser who looks forward to that sizzling summer break, can’t wait to escape to warmer climes in the UK’s winter months or can't be away from vitamin D too long, we’ve got a few ideas about where to go.

Germany travel insurance

If you’re visiting our neighbours in central Europe, get the appropriate travel insurance so you can keep your mind on your trip

Barbados travel insurance

Discover some of the top places to visit in Barbados, healthcare information and tips on staying safe.

Ait Ben Haddou, a brown dessert stone hillside city in Morocco

Morocco travel insurance

Perched on the northern tip of Africa, Morocco’s long been a popular destination for UK holidaymakers. If you’re heading there soon, make sure you’ve got good travel insurance to cover you.

Three people take a selfie in front of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, with the basilica’s ornate towers rising behind them under a clear blue sky

Spain travel insurance

Discover some top places to visit in Spain, tips on staying safe while you’re there and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable Spanish adventure.

Iceland travel insurance

Prepare for your dream holiday to Northern Europe with useful information, tips and a travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.

Travel insurance for Ireland

Do UK residents need travel insurance for Ireland? And what healthcare is available for Brits if they’re visiting the country?

Travel insurance for Italy

Find out about the safety of travelling to Italy as well as the medical care available to Brits and how to get around.

Travel insurance for Japan

If you’re jetting off to Japan soon make sure you have good travel insurance to cover your trip. The right policy may offer more protection than the standard medical care UK citizens can access when they visit.

Aerial view of Dubai with Burj Khalifa, skyscrapers, and a turquoise lake

Travel insurance for Dubai

Discover top places to visit, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable Dubai adventure.

Sydney opera house in the foreground with Sydney Harbour Bridge beyond and a city skyline further back still. A ferry crosses the water between the opera house and the bridge

Australia travel insurance

Find the best places to visit in Australia, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is a must for your trip.

Aerial view of a coastal town with a large cruise ship docked near small islands, surrounded by buildings, roads, green spaces and boats, under an orange and pink sky

What is the best month for a Caribbean cruise?

Dreaming of turquoise waters and sun-kissed beaches? Planning the perfect Caribbean cruise starts with choosing the right time to go. This guide explores the best month for a Caribbean cruise, what weather to expect and how to prepare.

New Zealand road with snow-capped mountains either side and ahead

Travel insurance for New Zealand

Find out what medical care Brits can access in New Zealand and travel risks to be aware of like natural catastrophes, however rare.

Canadian kayaks in water surrounded by Canadian mountains and trees

Travel insurance for Canada

Canada is a vast country of diverse delights – everything from bustling cities to snow-capped mountains, deep forests and crystal clear lakes. If you're thinking of experiencing them, it's time to consider your travel insurance.

Travel insurance for the Balearic Islands

It’s one of the most popular holiday hotspots for UK holidaymakers. But what can you expect from a trip to the Balearics?

Travel insurance for South Africa

How safe is South Africa to visit and why is having travel insurance important when you go? Our guide looks at the potential travel risks and the cover you may want to look for in a policy.

Lagoon with boats surrounded by rocky green hillside in Thailand

Travel insurance for Thailand

Thailand’s idyllic beaches, azure-blue sea, buzzing cities and exciting alternative scene are a draw for Brits. A trip can be a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Elevated view of small coastal town in Canary Islands surrounded by blue waters

Travel insurance for the Canary Islands

People flock to the Canary Islands from all over Europe. No wonder, with such appealing beaches, landscapes and temperatures to enjoy.

Mexico travel insurance

Discover some of Mexico’s top spots to visit, tips on staying safe and guidance on travel insurance.

Taj Mahal in distance with people in the foreground

Travel insurance for India

For many UK holidaymakers, India is an intriguing and diverse culture with colourful traditions and engrossing history. For many others, it’s a home from home.

Woman in red dress and hat looking up at Greek ruins

Travel insurance for Greece

Greece and the Greek islands have long been a popular travel destination for us Brits. But are there any travel risks or other factors to keep in mind before and when you go?

Classic red car parked in Havana street, Cuba

Travel insurance for Cuba

Today, Cuba is more accessible than it has been for many decades, and those who decide to holiday there can expect a mixture of colourful city life and luxurious beaches.

Travel insurance for Egypt

Make sure you’re travelling safely in Egypt with the latest advice and risks, and learn about getting around and local culture.

Travel insurance for France

It may be a short hop away, but a trip to France is not without its travel risks. Make sure you’re clued up on what they are and have travel insurance in place to help protect you, so you can concentrate on just enjoying your break.

Vietnam travel insurance

This guide explains top things to know about travelling to Vietnam, and how to make sure your cover is right for the trip you’re planning.

Travel insurance for China & Hong Kong

From the Great Wall to Victoria Harbour, China and Hong Kong offer some of the world’s most extraordinary experiences. Make sure you’re covered before you go.

a marina with rows of boats and yachts docked along a calm coastline, surrounded by mountainous terrain and nearby buildings

Family Holiday Report 2025

Discover the best-value European destinations for families with our annual report on local costs for holiday essentials.

Doctor stethoscope resting on top of a world map

Do I need travel vaccinations?

There’s no better feeling than planning an amazing trip to an exotic destination. Make staying safe with travel vaccinations top of your to-do list.

Senior citizens holding hands on a beach

Travel insurance for seniors and travelling with grandchildren

Read our guide to travelling in later life. We explore what to look for in your travel insurance, plus taking trips with your grandchildren.

Schengen travel insurance for UK travellers

There are different rules for travelling to the Schengen Area from the UK since Brexit. If you’re visiting this part of Europe, find out if you need a Schengen visa and travel insurance.

Female doctor smiling and talking to an elderly female patient

Vaccinations needed for Thailand

Some vaccinations for Thailand are recommended and some are mandatory in certain circumstances. It’s important to know which vaccinations or injections for Thailand you need to get before you leave home.

Woman wearing backpack walking at the airport pulling wheeled luggage behind her

When to buy travel insurance

Do you need travel insurance for your trip? Is travel insurance worth it? And, if yes, when is the right time to buy cover?

Doctor taking blood pressure of a patient

Travel insurance for people with high blood pressure

Travelling with high blood pressure is fine – but it’s important to make sure you’ve got the right cover in case something goes wrong abroad.

Travel insurance for diabetics

You should be able to get the right cover to travel abroad if you’re diabetic, making sure that your medical needs are taken care of.

Travel insurance for cancer patients

If you're living with cancer but love to travel, can you get travel insurance for your trip?

A group of friends on the top deck of a tourist bus

Kids’ travel insurance

It’s exciting when your child takes their first trip without you. Whether it’s a school visit, a holiday with friends or a gap year adventure, you’ll feel proud… but it’s normal to worry too.

Family relaxing sitting near beach and sea on their summer holiday

Family travel insurance

Going on a trip with your family is a great way to spend time together. It could be a holiday, a weekend away or a big trip abroad.

Two backpacks, one with boots attached, sat against a dark wooden door

A complete list of backpacking essential items

Going backpacking is one of life’s great adventures. But before you set off you’ll need some packing tips so you're not weighed down on the way.

Tourists taking in the sights of Times Square in New York

Worldwide travel insurance

Fancy trekking in a remote Asian rainforest? A wild time in New York? Flying over Niagara Falls in a helicopter? Or maybe taking in the sights of Athens or Rome?

Rocky and green coastline with people on sandy beach surrounded with blue waters and boats

European and Global Health Insurance Cards

If you're travelling to an EU country from the UK, make sure you take a Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic) with you or existing European health Insurance Card (Ehic), if it's still in date. You'll need them to access free healthcare during your stay, should you need it.

The true price of travel bugs and how to avoid a costly holiday nightmare

Checking your passport’s validity before you travel

Heading off abroad? Before you pack your bags, it’s important to check your UK passport’s still in date. Different countries have specific entry requirements. If your passport isn’t valid, it could wreak havoc with your travel plans.

View of New York City and the Statue of Liberty from the water

Electronic System for Travel Authorisation

With a valid ESTA you can visit the US for less than 90 days without needing a visa – as long as it's for a holiday or business trip. We’ve summarised how it works, how to get one and what you’ll need.

Where is hot in December, January and February?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days in the UK’s colder winter months? We can help with that.

a couple standing with matching suitcases

What can I take on a plane?

Ready to jet off on a much-needed break but confused about what you can take with you on the flight?

Teen travel: holiday ideas for teenagers and tips for parents

Travel can help teenagers grow and discover new places. This guide shares the best trips for teens, advice for those travelling independently for the first time, plus tips for parents too.

a happy couple having drinks at a beachside lounge

Where is hot in September, October and November?

Looking for holiday destinations that promise warmer days as UK temperatures start to fall? We can help with that.

Sandy beach with rocks and palm trees in front of blue sea with person riding a jet ski

10 ways to look after your valuables at the beach

The whole idea of lounging around on the beach is to switch off and enjoy the sunshine. But the reality is that opportunistic thieves are on the lookout for unattended valuables, and it’s important to make sure you’re protected.

Woman holding up mobile phone, showing a doctor on the screen

Don’t let illness spoil your perfect holiday – book an online doctor

There’s nothing worse than falling ill while away from home. Along with the worry of the cost of visiting a doctor and getting treatment, being poorly can put a real dampener on your trip.

Drummer and band playing music to a crowd with sun in background

Top tips for going to festivals overseas

With festivals overseas becoming the new norm, festivalgoers need to do a bit more planning than for a UK festival.

Woman wearing sunglasses and smiling with mountains in distance

What is ABTA?

Over 60 million people travel from the UK most years for holidays or business. The vast majority enjoy smooth, trouble-free journeys. Sometimes, though, things go wrong.

What is ATOL protected?

ATOL stands for Air Travel Organisers' Licensing, a scheme that helps make sure consumers are covered if travel firms fall into financial difficulties.

UK passport with compact camera on top, watch and a retro camera

How to protect your travel documents

While it’s useful to take hard copies of travel documents away, you can minimise your worry and risk. Here are some handy tips on keeping your travel documents safe.

Travel hacks to help save money on your holiday

Satisfy your travel craving while making your holiday budget go further.

Great tips for people travelling alone

Whether you’re travelling solo because of business, you’re hoping to meet someone, or simply because you enjoy it, being by yourself can sometimes be a daunting prospect when you’re abroad.

Male wearing winter jacket and backpack looking up at departures board

Travelling without insurance: Why you should never take the risk

If you’re thinking of heading abroad without insurance, think again. This guide explains why doing so can be risky, busts common myths about the need for insurance and shows how easy it is to protect yourself.

Person snowboarding through snow surrounded with snow spray

8 tips on staying safe while you enjoy your winter sports

The white stuff is alluring, so make sure you can enjoy it safely, are ready for the unexpected and pack travel insurance for extra reassurance.

Woman taking picture of landscape featuring a mountain range and lake.

The Travel Safety Index for Solo Travellers

Travelling solo means freedom and independence, making new connections and never having to compromise.

Taking pets on holiday: Do pets need travel insurance?

Things have changed a lot when it comes to travelling with your pet. Whether it’s a staycation or a trip to the continent, if you want to take your pet, you may need to make special arrangements.

A person in a pink shirt and blue shorts stands on a sandy beach, gazing out at a turquoise sea where a cruise ship is docked, with another ship in the distance

Understanding cruise travel insurance

Thinking of going on a cruise? Learn how cruise travel insurance protects you from unexpected events on board, at sea and on land, for smooth sailing and a stress-free experience.

Two cruise ships are docked in a lit coastal city at night, with mountains behind

Top cruise destinations for your bucket list

Ever dreamed of sailing to the world’s most exciting places? Cruises can make that happen.

Woman set on floor taking notes with open suitcase on bed behind her

How to pack a suitcase

Whether you’re heading to the beach for a much-needed break or boarding a boat for a cruise somewhere breath-taking, it’s important to know what to pack in advance so you’ll have everything you need.

Woman with their head outside a train window, posing for a picture with a scenic mountain range in the background

Gap year travel advice for solo travellers

Exploring the globe can be scary, but there’s so much to find at the edge of your comfort zone. We look at some of the top destinations to visit on your own – and share tips on how to keep safe when you go.

Man on plane in upgraded seating working on his laptop

How to get a free flight upgrade

There are several ways to get to the top of the class on your flight – whether that's business or even first.

Red suitcase on airport conveyor belt at luggage reclaim

What you should do about delayed, lost or damaged luggage

The last thing you want to happen on holiday is standing the luggage carousel at the airport waiting for bags that don't appear. It's a huge inconvenience that can cost you time, money and a lot of stress.

man wearing trousers and a button down shirt with his laptop and pone lounging on a beach

Travelling while you work or vice versa with nomad travel insurance

It’s easier now to mix business and leisure travel. Whether you’re planning a bleisure trip, taking a workation or exploring life as a digital nomad, there are more options than ever to work from anywhere with nomad travel insurance.

aerial view of cliffs overlooking the shoreline

Do I need travel insurance for a UK break or staycation?

Travel insurance for a holiday in the UK isn't something you must have, but it might be something you want to have.

Three woman taking a selfie whilst jumping and smiling

Compare our travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any trip. It can help protect you from things like flight cancellations, medical emergencies and lost luggage.

Is Airbnb safe? Tips on staying safe

The arrival of Airbnb has helped to transform the travel industry in recent years. On any one night, over two million people stay in homes advertised through Airbnb in 65,000 cities around the world.

Young family on the beach laughing and playing

10 tips for keeping kids safe on holiday

We all know the feeling – getting to the airport, then a wave of panic comes over you. Did you remember your passport? What time's the flight? And where on earth did you put the kids?

a person sitting on a bed packing a suitcase

Holiday packing and pre-travel checklist

So, you’ve booked your flights, accommodation and activities. What next?

Man in airport distressed to have lost something

Lost and costly: What UK holiday-goers lose most on holiday and how to avoid it

A surprising number of items get lost on holiday. Learn what you can insure and how to keep it safe.

Everything you need to know about embassies

Learn the difference between embassies and consulates, and why you might need them when travelling.

Flight delays and compensation

Most of the time, getting a flight is a hassle-free event. If you only take hand luggage, have your boarding pass saved to your phone and everything’s running to plan then you can breeze through security and hop on your flight with little fuss.

Person pushing wheelchair along passage in airport

How to get assisted travel at airports

Lots of people who need assisted travel at airports are missing out simply because they don’t know how to go about asking for it.

A family stands in a sunlit meadow blowing dandelion seeds surrounded by tall grass and trees

How many bank holidays are there in the UK?

Bank holidays are special days off when many people in the UK don’t work. They’re a great chance to relax, travel, see family or catch up on things.

Getting travel insurance for an adventure holiday

Adventure holidays come in all shapes and sizes. They can be full of action or just include a few activities, depending on the type of getaway you’re going for.

young lady checking the flight times on the board whilst holding her passport

What to do if your airline or holiday company goes bust

Finding out that your airline or holiday company has gone bust is a shock – especially if you’re on holiday at the time. But there are plenty of laws and regulations in place to protect you and your family from losing what could be a lot of money.

Free yourself from the hassle of cash at festivals

One of the joys of summer are the many music festivals playing across the globe. If you’re hitting the festival circuit overseas, managing your money can be a headache.

Prepaid currency cards and how to use them

Prepaid currency cards are a secure way to make purchases on trips abroad. They can be a handy alternative to paying with cash and debit or credit cards.

a person on a dock smiling at a smartphone while holding a credit card

Savvy holiday spending with the Post Office travel app

Travel smarter with the Post Office travel app. Paired with a Travel Money Card, it’s your ultimate holiday money manager – and more.

Choosing the right card for spending abroad

Credit, debit or prepaid travel cards? Using the right card when you’re abroad could save you money and help your holiday funds go even further.

young men and women friends with skiing equipment take selfie

Post Office Travel Insurance Winter Sports Survey

With the winter sports season upon us, we conducted a Winter Sports Survey for the second year running. It found as many as four in 10 UK travellers (39%) planned to take up a winter sports activity this year, with 25% keen to go skiing. It also emerged that many prefer winter escapes to summer ones. But has the nation considered all the protection we need for winter sports holidays? Or are we woefully underprepared?

Dog running with owner through sea waves and spray along a sandy beach on a sunny day

How to travel with your dog

Taking your best friend on holiday with you is everyone's ideal situation, but travelling with a dog can be a complicated process. Make sure you know how.

Mother giving her daughter a kiss in the airport before travelling

Travel tips for babies, toddlers and young kids

Travelling with kids? Before you get on the plane, read our quick and easy guide to help make sure your journey runs smoothly.

Travelling during your pregnancy

Before your little bundle of joy arrives, you may be considering taking a holiday. But is it safe? And what precautions should you consider before making a booking?

Don't make these holiday mistakes

Booking a last-minute holiday can get the blood pumping with the sudden thrill of adventure, but it also makes it easier to overlook things.

Travel insurance for Jersey

Learn how to get the most out of your trip to Jersey. That includes getting travel insurance, which the local government strongly recommends

Travel insurance for heart conditions

Having a heart condition doesn’t have to stop you from travelling. Here’s what you need to know about getting the right cover.

Posting

Online services

Branch services

Banking and bills

Banking and personal finance

Bills and payments

Travel

Insurance

Identity