18/10/2026
Holiday Insurance: Do You Get It When You Book or When You Go?
I was chatting to a gentleman in a tile shop of all places when the conversation turned to travel. He hadn’t booked through us, but knew we worked in travel and wanted some advice.
He told me that he and his partner were due to go on holiday in a few weeks, but unfortunately, his partner had fallen ill and they could no longer travel.
He asked me, “What can I do?”
The first thing I asked was, “Have you got travel insurance?”
His answer? No, he hadn’t arranged it yet.
And that’s the important part!
Your holiday starts when you book, not when you go!
We often think our holiday starts when we pack our suitcase, arrive at the airport or check into our hotel. But in reality, your holiday starts the moment you book — and so should your travel insurance.
Many of us book holidays weeks, months or even years in advance. But life happens, and unexpected illness or other circumstances can mean we’re unable to travel.
Had this gentleman arranged suitable insurance when he booked, he might have been able to claim back some of his holiday costs, depending on the circumstances and the terms of his policy.
Unfortunately, without insurance, he potentially faced losing the money he’d already spent.
Why wait until just before you travel?
Travel insurance isn’t just about medical emergencies or problems while you’re away. Cancellation cover can be just as important, protecting your holiday investment against certain unexpected events before you even leave home.
Of course, every policy is different, so always check what’s covered and any exclusions that may apply.
Our top travel tip ✈️
At Southport Travel Hub, our advice is simple:
Arrange your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday — don’t wait until the week before you go!
Hopefully, you’ll never need to use it. But if life throws you an unexpected curveball, you’ll be glad you got covered.
Because your holiday doesn’t start at the airport. It starts when you book!
🌍 Southport Travel Hub — Your Journey, Your Way.
