# What is travel insurance excess?

> Quick answer · Last updated 5 July 2026

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## In short

The amount you pay per claim before the insurer pays the rest. Higher voluntary excess lowers premium but increases out-of-pocket cost when claiming.

Compare policies at excess levels you could afford twice on one trip.

Some sections — baggage, gadgets — carry separate excesses.

Excess waivers exist on premium policies at higher cost.

See compare travel insurance guide.

## Related

- [Compare travel insurance](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/compare-travel-insurance-guide/)
- [Travel insurance essentials](https://moneyguide.org.uk/insurance/travel-insurance-essentials/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/guidance/foreign-travel-insurance

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.