- The Best multi trip Travel Insurance Plans
- What is multi trip travel insurance?
- What is the price of multi trip travel insurance?
- What your multi trip travel insurance covers
- The conditions of multi trip travel insurance
- Why take out multi trip travel insurance?
- How to choose the right multi trip travel insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover multi trip travel insurance?
- FAQ
multi trip travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Multi-trip insurance covers unlimited journeys within one year, ideal for those who travel more than twice annually.
2. Price: An annual multi-trip policy for European travel in Ireland can cost from €25 to €60.
3. Coverage: It covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage, but excludes undeclared pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and health plans like VHI or Laya offer very limited or no travel cancellation cover.
5. Tips: Always check the maximum trip duration limit and declare all pre-existing medical conditions before purchasing.
6. Other useful info: Your EHIC card is not a substitute for insurance; it won't cover repatriation or private care.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Ireland, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best multi-trip travel insurance.
The Best multi trip Travel Insurance Plans
Here is a selection of the best multi trip travel insurance plans available for residents of Ireland in 2025. These contracts stand out for their high medical coverage limits, low deductibles, and simple, flexible conditions that suit frequent travellers.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 2.0 M € | 50 € | • Covers unlimited trips all year. • Business and leisure trips included. • 24/7 emergency assistance. • Quick, paperless reimbursement system. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.0 M € | 50 € | • Dedicated mobile app. • Multilingual support team. • Family-friendly options. • Covers pre-existing conditions. |
| Tourist Card | 2.0 M € | 75 € | • Direct billing with partner hospitals. • Easy trip cancellation claims. • Annual option for families. • Adventure activity add-ons available. |
| World Travel | 1.5 M € | 100 € | • Adventure sports included. • Telemedicine and digital services. • Trip extension available. • Fast online claims processing. |
| Globe Partner | 1.0 M € | 50 € | • Flexible maximum trip duration. • Group and family discounts. • Basic and premium tiers. • COVID-19 cover included. |
| Globe Traveller | 1.0 M € | 50 € | • Senior-friendly with stable premiums. • Multi-language support. • Online chat assistance. • Straightforward renewal option. |
• Business and leisure trips included.
• 24/7 emergency assistance.
• Quick, paperless reimbursement system.
• Multilingual support team.
• Family-friendly options.
• Covers pre-existing conditions.
• Easy trip cancellation claims.
• Annual option for families.
• Adventure activity add-ons available.
• Telemedicine and digital services.
• Trip extension available.
• Fast online claims processing.
• Group and family discounts.
• Basic and premium tiers.
• COVID-19 cover included.
• Multi-language support.
• Online chat assistance.
• Straightforward renewal option.
The best multi trip travel insurance for you will depend on how you travel. Use HelloSafe’s comparison tool to compare and take out your cover online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is multi trip travel insurance?
Multi trip travel insurance is a policy that covers unlimited journeys taken from Ireland over a 12-month period, with each trip subject to a maximum duration per trip.
It is designed for frequent travellers, providing year-round protection for every departure without needing separate policies.
Multi trip insurance typically offers comprehensive benefits for medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings.
Unlike short term or single trip policies, it is renewed annually and is cost-effective if you travel more than twice a year.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out multi trip travel insurance is especially relevant if you live in Ireland:
- When you plan on taking more than two trips per year.
- For frequent business travel to Europe or the United Kingdom.
- If you take spontaneous weekend breaks or last-minute getaways abroad.
- For regular cross-border travel to Northern Ireland and the UK.
- When combining a main holiday with several shorter European trips.
- To save money versus buying multiple single trip policies annually.
- If your family travels together several times throughout the year.
What is the price of multi trip travel insurance?
On average, multi trip travel insurance costs between €120 and €500 per year depending on your destination and coverage level.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 3 business trips to European cities (3-5 days each) | €2,400 | €130 to €190 (annual) |
| 2 family holidays in Spain and Italy (7 days each) | €4,000 | €170 to €300 (annual) |
| 8 weekend city breaks in Europe (2 days each) | €2,000 | €150 to €240 (annual) |
| Mixed travel: 2 trips in Europe + 1 long-haul to Australia | €7,000 | €230 to €430 (annual) |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your multi trip travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip frequency and durations: the more trips you take and the longer each trip is, the higher the overall price.
- destination: worldwide coverage is more expensive than European-only plans, and countries with higher healthcare costs (such as the United States) increase the premium.
- traveller’s age: older travellers generally pay more.
- level of coverage: higher medical expense limits, lower excess amounts, and extra benefits like business cover or sports cover raise the premium.
- selected options: winter sports, adventure activities, or additional baggage/valuable items protection can increase the cost.
What your multi trip travel insurance covers
Multi trip travel insurance is a policy that protects you for unlimited trips within a year, with each trip capped at a set duration. It is designed for frequent travellers who need continuous protection for holidays, business, or family visits during the policy period.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of non-refundable travel costs if you cancel before departure. | Opt for €1,500 minimum and a deductible under €50. Cancellations for change of mind or visa refusal are usually excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Pays for extra fares if you miss a departure due to events beyond your control. | Minimum €250 advised, with no deductible. Being late yourself or lacking proof of the delay is not covered. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage during your trip. | At least €1,000 cover and deductible under €30 is best. Unattended luggage and non-reported losses are standard exclusions. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Fixed compensation for delays of four hours or more. | Look for €100+ after 4 hours and no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or without written proof are not covered. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Covers hospital and emergency medical costs while abroad. | €1M+ minimum is recommended, deductible should not exceed €50. Chronic conditions, preventive care, and cosmetic procedures are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays to return you to Ireland if medically necessary. | Cover should be unlimited or at least €1M, with insurer approval. Non-urgent or refused repatriation may not be reimbursed. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment abroad. | At least €200 cover and low deductible (€30 maximum). Excludes routine, preventive, or cosmetic dental work. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Covers accidental injury or damage you cause to others. | At least €450,000 cover and deductible under €100. Deliberate acts and damage to family or rented property are not covered. |
| 🧳 Luggage delay | Pays for essentials if your baggage is delayed for 24 hours or more. | Opt for €150 cover after 24h. Deductibles are rare. Not covered for return journeys or if airline proof is missing. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees or bail after an incident in a foreign country. | €3,000 for legal costs and €7,500 for bail are advisable. Claims are not covered if related to alcohol, crime, or civil disputes. |
Cancellations for change of mind or visa refusal are usually excluded.
Being late yourself or lacking proof of the delay is not covered.
Unattended luggage and non-reported losses are standard exclusions.
Delays under 4 hours or without written proof are not covered.
Chronic conditions, preventive care, and cosmetic procedures are excluded.
Non-urgent or refused repatriation may not be reimbursed.
Excludes routine, preventive, or cosmetic dental work.
Deliberate acts and damage to family or rented property are not covered.
Not covered for return journeys or if airline proof is missing.
Claims are not covered if related to alcohol, crime, or civil disputes.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the multi trip travel insurance best suited to your travel habits, compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of multi trip travel insurance
To benefit from your multi trip travel insurance, certain conditions must be respected for each journey you make during the coverage year.
- Timing of subscription: you must purchase the insurance while still in Ireland and before your first covered trip begins.
- Residency requirement: you must be an Irish resident when you take out the policy and during the coverage period.
- Maximum trip duration: each trip must not exceed the maximum length allowed by your plan, often 30, 45, or 90 days.
- Annual policy validity: the insurance is valid only within the 12-month period after the start date you choose.
- Premium payment: your premium must be fully paid in advance or as specified by the insurer.
- Destination eligibility: your travel destinations must be covered and not on the insurer’s exclusion list, such as war zones or official advisories.
- Claim notification: you must inform the insurer of incidents, losses, or sickness as quickly as possible, usually within a set timeframe.
- Supporting documentation: you need to provide official documents, such as medical reports or police statements, for claims to be processed.
Watch out!
A common pitfall with multi-trip insurance is the maximum trip duration. Many Irish travellers assume their annual policy covers them for any length of holiday. However, most policies limit each individual trip to 30 or 45 days. Always check this limit before booking that extended getaway!
Why take out multi trip travel insurance?
When travelling, a minor health problem can quickly turn into a significant financial burden, especially abroad. Medical expenses, repatriation, and everyday incidents are rarely predictable or cheap.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, depending on policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Often covered 100% if medically necessary and urgent |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalisation |
| Up to 100%, depending on plan limits |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Partial to full coverage, depends on excess and insurer |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Usually covered up to stated dental limits |
- Europe: €200 to €400
- North America: €800 to €1,200
- Asia: €150 to €300
- Europe: €15,000 to €25,000
- North America: €50,000 to €80,000
- Asia: €20,000 to €40,000
- Europe: €8,000 to €15,000
- North America: €25,000 to €50,000
- Asia: €5,000 to €12,000
- Europe: €150 to €300
- North America: €600 to €1,000
- Asia: €100 to €250
- Europe: €200 to €500
- North America: €800 to €1,500
- Asia: €150 to €400
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical expenses, multi trip travel insurance often provides other essential guarantees: trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage, personal liability abroad, travel delay, legal assistance, and repatriation services, all of which offer vital protection and peace of mind when travelling repeatedly.
Good to know
For anyone taking more than one trip a year, an annual policy is a must. It saves you time and money compared to single policies. Get year-round protection from flight cancellations to medical emergencies, with some insurers like Chapka offering 24/7 assistance through an app.
How to choose the right multi trip travel insurance
Multi trip travel insurance plans can differ significantly, especially regarding limits, deductibles, and eligibility. Comparing these criteria ensures you select the most suitable protection for your travel frequency and needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Determines the maximum amount you can claim for medical or other emergencies | For worldwide travel, choose at least €1,000,000 medical cover. Check higher limits for costly destinations. |
| 📉 Deductible | The portion you pay out of pocket before coverage applies | Favour plans with a low or zero deductible for medical care, especially outside Europe. |
| 📅 Maximum trip duration | Each trip is only covered up to a set number of days | Verify this matches your typical trip length as some policies limit each journey to 30, 45, or 90 days. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Policies may cover only Europe or also worldwide | Choose worldwide cover if you travel outside Europe, including the USA, as costs vary by destination. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age can affect price and available coverage options | Check age limits and premium surcharges since multi trip cover often increases in cost over 65. |
| 🧾 Policy conditions | Specific rules may apply for refunds, quarantine, or missed flights | Read the policy exclusions to make sure you are protected for missed departures and unforeseen events. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Some benefits may already be included via health insurance or bank card | Assess your current protection to avoid paying for unnecessary duplicate coverage with your multi trip plan. |
| 🏄 Planned activities | Risky sports and group tours are sometimes excluded | Declare any activities like skiing or scuba diving to include the right activity extensions in your policy. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Increases convenience and speeds up documentation | Favour providers with instant confirmation and digital access to your documents while you travel. |
Do my current insurance policies cover multi trip travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurance or the public health system, can offer you a multi trip travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Multi trip travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSE (Public Health) | Almost Never | Emergency medical care within the EU only, no coverage outside Europe, no repatriation. Maximum limit: covered at local cost. No cover for trip cancellation, baggage, personal liability, or non-EU emergencies. | Travel insurance provides up to €10,000,000 for emergency care, repatriation, baggage and liability. No country restrictions. |
| European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) | Almost Never | Urgent medical treatment in EU/EEA, no private care, no repatriation. Maximum limit: state rates/local public system. No baggage, cancellation, private clinics, or worldwide guarantee. | Travel insurance covers cancellation, baggage, repatriation, plus up to €10,000,000 worldwide, not just Europe. |
| Private health insurance (VHI/Laya) | Almost Never | Emergency medical only, often with low worldwide limits (€50,000 – €100,000). No travel disruption, no repatriation. No trip cancellation, baggage, personal accident or travel delays covered. | Travel insurance reimburses up to €10,000,000 for medical, repatriation, and non-medical guarantees for all trips in the year. |
| Classic credit card (AIB/BOI) | Almost Never | Basic medical only on some cards (max: €50,000–€125,000), covers short single trips only. No annual coverage, no repatriation. No cancellation, baggage, major medical expenses, or liability cover. | Travel insurance brings annual cover, repatriation, cancellation, and baggage up to €10,000,000, for all trips. |
| Premium credit card (Ulster/KBC) | Limited coverage | Some add baggage (€1,500), trip delay (€200/day), or higher medical (€100,000–€150,000) for single trips. No annual multi trip. No consistent cover for cancellation, repatriation, or all-year use. | Travel insurance ensures cover for cancellation, baggage, high medical and accident limits up to €10,000,000 for every trip. |
No cover for trip cancellation, baggage, personal liability, or non-EU emergencies.
No baggage, cancellation, private clinics, or worldwide guarantee.
No trip cancellation, baggage, personal accident or travel delays covered.
No cancellation, baggage, major medical expenses, or liability cover.
No consistent cover for cancellation, repatriation, or all-year use.
Expert advice
Many bank card and health insurance policies exclude key cover like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Always check the small print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is multi trip travel insurance mandatory?
Multi trip travel insurance is not mandatory for most countries, but it is required if you travel to destinations that demand proof of insurance, such as the Schengen area. For most business or holiday trips, it is not legally needed, but it is strongly recommended. For example, sudden illness during a city break in Paris could leave you facing high bills if you are not insured.
When is it recommended to purchase multi trip travel insurance?
The best time to purchase multi trip travel insurance is before your first journey within the policy year, ideally just after booking. Early purchase ensures you are protected against cancellation risks and will be covered for all subsequent trips. Waiting can mean missing out on some benefits if something happens before cover starts.
How do I purchase multi trip travel insurance?
Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the right multi trip plan for your needs. Carefully check the policy guarantees and exclusions, focusing on conditions that apply to yearly coverage. Purchase your preferred option online, and the insurer will email your certificate once payment is complete.
Can I purchase multi trip travel insurance after my first trip is booked?
Yes, you can purchase multi trip travel insurance even after booking your initial trip, as long as your first journey has not yet started. Purchasing early ensures full protection for cancellations or pre-travel issues. Coverage for any new trips within the policy year is automatic once your policy is active.
How do I make a claim on my multi trip policy?
To make a claim, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and complete their claim form, which can usually be done online. Provide required documents such as booking confirmations, receipts, and medical certificates if relevant. Claims are generally processed within 10-15 business days, provided all paperwork is in order.
Does multi trip travel insurance cover business trips and leisure travel?
Most multi trip policies cover both business and leisure travel as standard, making them ideal for people who combine personal and work journeys. Check if your policy includes protection for business equipment and work-related activities. Some options require an additional premium for specific business risks.
Is winter sports cover included with multi trip travel insurance?
Winter sports and adventure activities are often excluded from standard multi trip policies unless purchased as an optional extra. If you plan to ski or snowboard, check your insurer’s add-on options before buying. Extra cover provides protection for medical costs, lost equipment, and piste closure during winter trips.
Is multi trip travel insurance mandatory?
Multi trip travel insurance is not mandatory for most countries, but it is required if you travel to destinations that demand proof of insurance, such as the Schengen area. For most business or holiday trips, it is not legally needed, but it is strongly recommended. For example, sudden illness during a city break in Paris could leave you facing high bills if you are not insured.
When is it recommended to purchase multi trip travel insurance?
The best time to purchase multi trip travel insurance is before your first journey within the policy year, ideally just after booking. Early purchase ensures you are protected against cancellation risks and will be covered for all subsequent trips. Waiting can mean missing out on some benefits if something happens before cover starts.
How do I purchase multi trip travel insurance?
Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the right multi trip plan for your needs. Carefully check the policy guarantees and exclusions, focusing on conditions that apply to yearly coverage. Purchase your preferred option online, and the insurer will email your certificate once payment is complete.
Can I purchase multi trip travel insurance after my first trip is booked?
Yes, you can purchase multi trip travel insurance even after booking your initial trip, as long as your first journey has not yet started. Purchasing early ensures full protection for cancellations or pre-travel issues. Coverage for any new trips within the policy year is automatic once your policy is active.
How do I make a claim on my multi trip policy?
To make a claim, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and complete their claim form, which can usually be done online. Provide required documents such as booking confirmations, receipts, and medical certificates if relevant. Claims are generally processed within 10-15 business days, provided all paperwork is in order.
Does multi trip travel insurance cover business trips and leisure travel?
Most multi trip policies cover both business and leisure travel as standard, making them ideal for people who combine personal and work journeys. Check if your policy includes protection for business equipment and work-related activities. Some options require an additional premium for specific business risks.
Is winter sports cover included with multi trip travel insurance?
Winter sports and adventure activities are often excluded from standard multi trip policies unless purchased as an optional extra. If you plan to ski or snowboard, check your insurer’s add-on options before buying. Extra cover provides protection for medical costs, lost equipment, and piste closure during winter trips.
