Best Travel Cancellation Insurance (Prices 2025)

We've all faced the question of cancelling a trip. A pregnancy, illness, the death of a loved one, COVID, or a natural disaster in the destination country – there are many reasons that can force us to cancel our travel plans. Getting the right travel insurance can give you peace of mind should the worst happen.

How does travel cancellation insurance work in Ireland? Can I use my bank card's insurance for travel? Is Coronavirus a valid reason for cancellation? What are the conditions to be able to cancel my trip and claim on my travel insurance?

To help you travel with peace of mind, we answer all your questions about travel cancellation insurance in Ireland. Find out how to choose the best travel insurance policy.

Travel cancellation insurance: key takeaways

• Travel cancellation insurance covers costs in case of unforeseen cancellation of your trip
• The price of travel cancellation insurance depends, among other things, on the cost of the trip
• Taking out travel cancellation insurance is essential to be reimbursed in the event of unforeseen circumstances: illness, accident or unexpected event
• It is important to compare travel cancellation insurance offers before booking, to find the best coverage at the best price

What is a travel cancellation insurance?

A travel cancellation insurance is a contract that guarantees financial protection if you have to cancel your trip for an unforeseeable reason beyond your control.

Cancellation insurance can reimburse you fully or partially for your trip and any cancellation fees charged by transport and accommodation companies. This travel cancellation insurance provides peace of mind when booking in advance.

It is particularly recommended when the trip is planned far in advance, when it is very expensive, or when your personal situation (illness, pregnancy, etc.) is uncertain. Getting cancellation insurance can provide a safety net for such situations.

To benefit from travel cancellation insurance, it's recommended to take out travel insurance, which will also cover other unforeseen costs during your stay in Ireland, such as medical expenses, repatriation, public liability, delayed baggage, or even legal assistance if necessary. Don't hesitate to compare the different types of travel insurance and travel cancellation insurance available in Ireland:

What does a cancellation insurance cover?

The guarantees of a travel cancellation insurance

A cancellation insurance protects you financially if you are forced to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen event covered by your policy. It's important to have travel cancellation insurance to mitigate potential losses due to unforeseen circumstances.

In case of cancellation, travel cancellation insurance can cover:

Attention: The guarantees and reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurance contracts. It is important to read the general conditions carefully before purchasing travel cancellation insurance and choosing coverage that suits your needs.

Flight ticket refund

Travel cancellation insurance offers a refund for your flight tickets in the event of an unforeseen incident. To benefit from this service, certain conditions must be met. Having adequate cancellation insurance is crucial for peace of mind when booking flights.

Depending on the contract, the amount refunded may decrease depending on the date of cancellation. In addition, a deductible provided for in the contract may be deducted from the amount refunded. It's crucial to understand the terms of your cancellation insurance policy to know what to expect in case of a claim.

Reimbursement conditions vary depending on the insurance policies. Some companies offer coverage starting from 10,99 € for protection in the event of flight cancellation. Consider travel cancellation insurance for peace of mind.

Generally, reimbursement with a insurance policy for plane tickets covers both the non-refundable expenses incurred for the trip and the fees retained by the transport providers. Having travel cancellation insurance is essential.

Holiday rental cancellation insurance

A holiday rental cancellation insurance offers additional protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances that would force you to cancel your accommodation booking. This insurance allows you to be reimbursed for the amounts committed to the rental, in compliance with the specific conditions of the contract. Consider cancellation insurance for your next holiday rental in Ireland.

A wide range of unforeseen circumstances can be covered by travel cancellation insurance, including:

• Santé (maladie, hospitalisation, décès) : Protégez votre voyage avec une assurance annulation voyage en cas d'imprévus médicaux.
• Problèmes professionnels (licenciement, mutation) : Notre assurance annulation voyage vous couvre en cas de problèmes professionnels imprévus.
• Événements familiaux (divorce, séparation) : L'assurance annulation voyage peut vous aider si des événements familiaux vous empêchent de partir.

It's essential to review the terms of your policy to understand exactly which reasons for cancellation are covered under your travel cancellation insurance. Some policies even offer coverage for "cancel for any reason", giving you maximum flexibility. Purchasing travel cancellation insurance provides peace of mind knowing you are covered should unforeseen circumstances arise. Consider cancellation insurance for your next trip to Ireland.

Depending on the offers, the amount of the insurance premium can vary, often between 2% and 6% of the total cost of the rental. Reimbursement is, in most cases, capped at a certain amount defined in the insurance contract. Consider travel cancellation insurance to protect your investment.

To benefit from this guarantee, it is necessary to take out travel cancellation insurance at the time of booking the holiday rental, or within a very short period thereafter. It is also important to respect the deadlines for declaration in the event of cancellation. Securing cancellation insurance ensures you're covered when life throws unexpected curveballs.

Finally, don't forget to provide all the necessary evidence to justify your cancellation (medical certificates, employer certificates, etc.) and thus get reimbursed as soon as possible. A comprehensive travel cancellation insurance policy simplifies the reimbursement process with clear evidence.

Travel cancellation insurance exclusions

Travel cancellation insurances generally do not cover cancellation fees for:

• Reasons for cancellation not listed in the contract.
• Cancellations of business trips.
• Trip cancellations to a country in a state of war or alert.
• Trip cancellations related to a sporting activity or a risky event.
• Trip cancellations due to pregnancy (unless a serious complication arises).

It's crucial to understand the exclusions of your insurance policy before purchasing travel cancellation insurance.

What are the best travel cancellation insurance options in Ireland in 2025?

Here is a table outlining the cover and limits of some of the best travel cancellation insurance policies currently available in the Irish market. Choosing the right cancellation insurance ensures peace of mind before and during your trip.

With Hellosafe, you can compare the best travel cancellation insurance policies and get the best quotes with secure online subscription. Find the perfect cancellation insurance for your needs in Ireland.

What reasons for travel cancellation are covered by travel cancellation insurance in Ireland?

The reasons covered by travel cancellation insurance vary depending on the policy, but generally include the following:

• Serious illness: affecting the traveller, a close relative (spouse, ascendants, descendants, siblings), or a school-age child.
• Serious accident: affecting the traveller, a close relative (spouse, ascendants, descendants, siblings), or a school-age child.
• Redundancy: of the traveller. Consider travel cancellation insurance for this event.
• Summons to an exam or competition: school or university-related for the traveller or a school-age child.
• Obtaining a first job
• Significant damage to the home: making the trip impossible (fire, flood, burglary, etc.). Travel cancellation insurance can protect you.
• Cancellation of the wedding: of the traveller or a school-age child.
• Death: of a close family member (spouse, ascendants, descendants, siblings). Travel cancellation insurance often covers this.

How to justify a travel cancellation?

To justify a travel cancellation and make a claim on your travel cancellation insurance, you will need to provide certain documents to your insurance company. These supporting documents vary depending on the reason for the cancellation. For example: When seeking cancellation insurance pay-out, make sure you have all the documentation ready.

• In the event of illness or accident, a detailed medical certificate is generally required for your travel cancellation insurance claim.
• For a professional relocation, a letter from the employer certifying the relocation is required for your cancellation insurance.
• If you cancel due to a court summons, you will need to produce the summons itself to claim on your travel cancellation insurance.

It's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of your travel cancellation insurance policy to fully understand the specific documentation required in the event of a cancellation. Generally, these supporting documents must be submitted to your insurer within a specified timeframe, often within 5 days of the event that justifies the cancellation. Consider cancellation insurance to protect your travel investment.

How much does a travel cancellation insurance cost?

The cost of travel cancellation insurance in Ireland depends on several factors. To ensure you have the best travel cancellation insurance, it's important to understand these elements:

• Type of trip: Short or long stay, destination (Europe, Worldwide), type of accommodation (hotel, seasonal rental), planned activities (excursions, sports). Consider travel cancellation insurance for peace of mind.
• Trip price: The higher the price of the trip, the higher the cost of the cancellation insurance.
• Age of the traveler: Young people and seniors generally pay more than adults for travel cancellation insurance.
• Chosen guarantees: The more extensive the guarantees (coverage of medical expenses, repatriation, etc.), the higher the cost of the insurance. Ensure your travel cancellation insurance covers your needs.
• Level of coverage: Deductible, reimbursement limit. These factors impact the cost and effectiveness of your travel cancellation insurance.

Good to know

Generally, the price of travel cancellation insurance represents between 3 and 6 % of the total trip cost.

For example, for a trip costing 1 000 €, the cost of travel cancellation insurance will be between 30 and 60 €.

Here are some examples of travel cancellation insurance costs:

It's important to compare offers from different insurance companies before purchasing travel cancellation insurance. Use our tool to get the best rates for travel cancellation insurance in Ireland.

Is travel cancellation covered by my bank card?

To find out if travel cancellation is covered by your bank card, you need to check the general terms and conditions of your insurance contract Visa or Mastercard.

Indeed, the guarantees and reimbursement limits vary from one card to another. Make sure your travel cancellation insurance is adequate for your needs.

Generally, premium bank cards (Visa Premier, Mastercard Gold, etc.) include travel cancellation insurance that covers cancellation fees in the event of a serious unforeseen event, such as illness, an accident, redundancy, etc. This can offer peace of mind when booking your travel arrangements.

Basic bank cards (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, etc.) generally do not offer travel cancellation insurance or offer very limited coverage. Therefore, relying on these cards for travel cancellation insurance might not be sufficient.

To find out if your bank card covers you for travel cancellation, use our free tool by indicating the name of your card and your bank. This will help you understand the extent of your travel cancellation insurance coverage.

How does travel cancellation insurance work in case of Covid?

With the pandemic, the question of Covid-19 insurance arose, and some countries for a time required travel insurance to enter their territory. Even though today, the requirements related to Covid have almost disappeared, the majority of insurers have retained insurance and assistance guarantees specific to pandemics in their contracts. Securing travel cancellation insurance is always advisable for peace of mind.

Covid cover typically includes:

• Medical and hospitalisation costs if you contract Covid-19.
• Medical repatriation (decision made by the insurer in consultation with their medical advisor).
• Trip cancellation and reimbursement if you contract Covid-19 before departure, or if a family member contracts a severe form of Covid-19. Consider travel cancellation insurance for peace of mind.
• Early return home if a family member contracts a severe form of Covid-19.
• Travel and accommodation expenses for a close relative if you are hospitalised abroad. Travel cancellation insurance can provide financial protection in such unforeseen circumstances.

Please note, that covering travel cancellation costs is often an option that costs between 3 and 6% of the trip's cost. This travel cancellation insurance can provide peace of mind when booking your holiday.

You can subscribe to this "Covid cancellation insurance" option up to 48 hours after booking your trip. It can be subscribed to in a comprehensive travel insurance contract or in a dedicated contract. This is a good option if you are looking for travel cancellation insurance.

Several situations can then lead to cancellation: Here are some reasons why you might need travel cancellation insurance.

• If you test positive for COVID-19 before your trip
• If you are required to quarantine before your trip
• If your destination country is subject to a travel restriction after you have made your booking, your travel cancellation insurance may provide cover.
• If you are denied boarding following a temperature check

Travel cancellation insurance, including coverage for Covid-related issues, offers advantages even after you've departed for your trip. If you experience a forced extension of your stay or an impossible return, cancellation insurance helps by providing:

• Payment of accommodation with a defined number of nights and a maximum amount (from 80 to 100 € per night).
• Payment of the return flight if the date is postponed (between 800 and 1 000 €).
• Payment of a local telephone package (approximately 100 €).
• Psychological support in the event of quarantine.
• An emergency suitcase including essential items (100 € per person). Consider travel cancellation insurance for unexpected events.

Good to know

You may need to provide travel insurance confirmation in English, or the language of the country requesting it, clearly stating COVID-19 coverage. Ensure your travel cancellation insurance policy offers adequate protection.

Can I get travel cancellation insurance after buying my ticket?

Yes, it is possible to get travel cancellation insurance after booking. Purchasing travel cancellation insurance provides peace of mind.

However, it's important to act quickly! Some insurers allow you to purchase travel cancellation insurance within 48 hours of buying your ticket. However, it is recommended to take out travel cancellation insurance as soon as possible for several reasons:

• If your trip is scheduled in just a few days, many insurers will not allow you to purchase travel cancellation insurance after buying your ticket.
• Some insurers have a waiting period between subscription and the validity of the insurance, often lasting about 14 days. For example, if you leave 7 days after purchasing your cancellation insurance, you may not be covered by your insurance for the first week of your holiday...
• If you learned of an illness between booking tickets and subscribing to travel cancellation insurance, this is a pre-existing circumstance and you may not be covered for this reason.
• The price is sometimes linked to the subscription date, meaning the later you insure, the less advantageous the rates will be. Get the best rates on cancellation insurance by booking early.

Generally, we recommend securing travel cancellation insurance as soon as you purchase your tickets, opting for a policy with immediate effect. This allows you to receive your insurance certificate promptly and activate your travel cancellation insurance guarantees immediately if needed.

How does travel cancellation insurance work for flight or train cancellations?

In the event of a flight or train cancellation, companies may offer a refund or a ticket change, particularly in situations such as weather disruptions, strikes, or technical problems. However, these refunds are often limited to the tickets themselves, without covering related expenses such as accommodation, excursions, or booked activities. This is where travel cancellation insurance comes in. While the airline or rail company may only cover part of the costs, travel cancellation insurance can cover the additional expenses, depending on the terms of your policy. Having travel cancellation insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection for your trip.

To activate this coverage, you must report the cancellation to your insurer and provide the necessary supporting documents, such as a certificate from the airline or railway company, a medical certificate, or any other document proving the cancellation. Each travel cancellation insurance policy has specific conditions, so it is crucial to read them carefully to understand the reasons for cancellation covered and the reimbursement limits. Therefore, it is important to have cancellation insurance.

How to get a travel cancellation insurance?

• At the time of booking your trip: Travel cancellation insurances will invariably be offered by the travel booking entity (travel agency, airline, etc.). You can therefore purchase this insurance directly when booking your trip.
• From an insurance company: If you are aware of a significant risk impacting your ability to travel, due to illness, pregnancy, a political situation in the country or any other reason, don't hesitate to purchase dedicated travel cancellation insurance, which will cover more reasons than your card insurance. You can use a travel insurance comparison tool to find the best deals at the best prices. Consider travel cancellation insurance to protect your trip investment.

If you travel regularly, for work for example, consider taking out an annual travel insurance policy. This insurance will save you from having to take out a policy for each trip. It's a great way to ensure you have travel cancellation insurance when you need it.

What are the cancellation fees for a trip with or without travel cancellation insurance?

Without cancellation insurance, the cancellation fees generally vary depending on when you cancel your trip. For example, the closer to the departure date the cancellation occurs, the higher the fees. These fees can range from a few percentages up to the entire cost of the trip. Securing travel cancellation insurance can protect you from these costs.

With travel cancellation insurance, most of the costs incurred by cancellation are covered, provided that the reason for cancellation is included in the guarantees of your contract. The amount of the insurance premium is generally between 2 % and 6 % of the trip price. The compensation limit ranges from 5 000 € to 8 000 € per insured person, or approximately 40 000 € per event. Cancellation insurance helps protect your investment in your trip.

How to get your trip reimbursed by travel cancellation insurance in case of cancellation?

To get your trip reimbursed by travel cancellation Insurance in case of cancellation, you need to follow these steps:

• Declare the cancellation to your insurer: as quickly as possible after the reason for cancellation occurs, by phone or online, following your insurer's instructions.
• Complete the reimbursement claim form: this form is generally available on your insurer's website or will be sent to you by post. It must be completed carefully and signed by you.
• Provide the requested supporting documents: the supporting documents vary depending on the reason for cancellation (medical certificate, letter of dismissal, modified airline ticket, etc.). You must send them to your insurer within the time limits specified in your contract.
• Send your reimbursement claim to your insurer: by post or email, according to your insurer's instructions.
• Keep a copy of your reimbursement claim and supporting documents: for your records and in case of a dispute regarding your travel cancellation insurance.

Good to know

The processing time for reimbursement claims varies depending on the insurance company. It typically takes a few weeks, but can sometimes extend to several months. For travel cancellation insurance, the timeframe depends on the provider.

A. Fruchard

Insurance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.