Solo Travellers and Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know

Solo travel is more popular than ever. Every year, thousands of British holidaymakers set off alone to explore new cities, relax on remote beaches, or trek across the world. In fact, solo travel bookings have risen by over 40% since 2020 according to ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents).

But with freedom comes risk. Alarmingly, studies show that solo travellers are the least likely group to take out travel insurance, and this decision can have devastating consequences if something goes wrong abroad. SkyCare’s Managing Director Craig Bickers takes us through some of the dangers of solo travelling and simple things that can be done to make it safer.

🚨 Why Solo Travellers Face Greater Risks

Travelling alone is exciting, but it also carries extra dangers:

• No Immediate Help: In an emergency, solo travellers may have no one to assist them.

• Harder to Communicate: If you are injured or unconscious, it may be difficult for authorities to identify or help you.

• Targeted by Criminals: Solo tourists can be more vulnerable to scams, theft, or worse.

• Medical Decision Delays: Without a companion, emergency medical decisions could be delayed until next of kin are contacted.

• Navigation Errors: Solo travellers may be more likely to get lost in unfamiliar environments, increasing risk.

According to Direct Line Travel Insurance, a British tourist without insurance needing air ambulance repatriation from the USA could face bills of over £80,000 — paid out of pocket if uninsured.

📈 Real Statistics

• 1 in 4 British travellers (26%) do not purchase travel insurance at all.

• Among solo travellers, the number rises to nearly 40%.
  (Source: ABTA Holiday Habits Report)

• Medical treatment abroad can cost up to:

  • £45,000 for a broken leg in the USA

  • £10,000 for hospital treatment in Spain

  • £30,000 for air ambulance repatriation from Thailand

• Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) reports that every year, hundreds of Brits end up in foreign hospitals without insurance, facing crippling bills.

🛡️ Why Travel Insurance Is Essential for Solo Travellers

A good travel insurance policy will cover:

• Emergency medical treatment

• Medical repatriation (air ambulance, commercial medical escort)

• Lost or stolen belongings

• Trip cancellation

• Legal support abroad

Without insurance, you are personally responsible for every cost — and some hospitals abroad may refuse treatment without proof of ability to pay.

Travel insurance is a small cost compared to the enormous risks.

🛫 Smart Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

In addition to taking out insurance, solo travellers should:

• Enable Phone Tracking:
  Use apps like Find My iPhone or Google Find My Device and share your location with trusted friends or family.

• Keep Emergency Contacts Updated:
  Save an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact in your phone.

• Carry Travel Insurance Details:
  Have your insurance policy number and emergency contact number easily available.

• Register with FCDO:
  If travelling to higher-risk countries, consider signing up for FCDO travel alerts.

• Stay in Contact:
  Arrange regular check-ins with family or friends.

• Be Aware Locally:
  Avoid unsafe areas, especially after dark, and trust your instincts.

• Know the Nearest Hospital:
  Research nearby medical facilities before you travel.

• Apply for a GHIC Card:
  If travelling to Europe, apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) from the NHS. This card gives you access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries, often at a reduced cost or for free. However, remember it is not a replacement for travel insurance.

✈️ Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Travel Safe

Travelling alone is empowering — but it demands preparation.
Travel insurance is not optional: it’s a critical safety net that protects your health, your wallet, and your loved ones.

Before you set off on your next solo adventure, make sure you are properly covered. It could be the best decision you ever make.

If you do find yourself needing emergency medical support abroad, SkyCare is here to help — bringing care to the skies, where every journey matters.