In a study into the affordability and availability of winter sports cover for the older generation, Gocompare.com has found that mature skiers face significantly higher insurance premiums, regardless of whether they have any pre-existing medical conditions or not.
The comparison site found that a 65 year old skier with no pre-existing medical conditions could, on average, expect to pay 65% more for their cover than a 30 year old traveller. For those over the age of 65, the price gap widens more dramatically, Gocompare.com found that a 66 year old traveller’s premium was nearly triple (171%) that of somebody aged 65, despite being just a year older.
However, it’s skiers aged 70 and above who face the biggest climb to get affordable travel insurance. The research revealed that a 75 year old traveller can expect to pay more than four times (324%) more for their cover than a 65 year old and an eye watering seven times (633%) more than a 30 year old skier**.
In 2012, nine out of 10 (87%) policies offered cover to those aged 65 or over. However in 2015, this has fallen to eight out of 10 (82%). The proportion of insurers willing to provide cover is even smaller for more senior travellers, with only around a quarter (28%) willing to cover skiers over the age of 75.
Caroline Lloyd, travel insurance spokesperson at Gocompare.com, said:
“Most people of retirement age don’t consider themselves to be particularly old, with many considering more adventurous holidays in addition to relaxing getaways. This research highlights the challenges that older travellers face in getting cover, which could act as a financial roadblock for people looking to enjoy retirement.
“Insurers set the price of their premiums based on the likelihood and cost of a potential claim. Unfortunately for older travellers, providers will typically take the view that older skiers are more likely to have an accident or cancel their trip, and as a result will often charge older travellers more for their insurance.
“While it’s essential to have appropriate travel insurance before any holiday, older skiers shouldn’t just resign themselves to a future of expensive policies. It’s important to remember that there are still a large proportion of insurers that will cover more experienced skiers, which makes it well worth comparing prices from lots of providers to ensure you’re getting the right cover at the best possible price.
“Another way to help cut the cost of your travel insurance is to ensure you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when holidaying in Europe. A valid EHIC entitles the holder to the same level of emergency medical care as a resident in the country that they are travelling in. In a study of 463 winter sports policies, we found that eight of ten (83%) would waive the medical excess on the policy, if an EHIC has been successfully used, which could save travellers hundreds of pounds, should they need to make a medical claim.***”
To help mature travellers find the right cover for them, Gocompare.com has created a guide, available here |
