The further you go, the greater the need for dependable travel insurance. If you are back-packing, you are likely to be getting involved in activities and putting yourself in situations which require specialised cover.

What’s more, standard policies tend to include cover for personal possessions and costs which for a budget backpacker is unlikely to be appropriate. As a result, backpacker policies are often cheaper than standard holiday insurance.

Go Travel Insurance and 1Stop Travel Insurance are two reputable insurers offering cheap backpacker insurance policies with good levels of cover.

Both policies are also highly flexible. If you’re going to be away for the whole year, you are probably going to need to earn some spending money while you’re away. Both the policies will provide you with cover to do typical casual jobs, including bar work and fruit picking.

Unlike most other insurers, Go and 1Stop also allow you to return home during your trip if necessary. Although there are restrictions as to how many times you come back and for how long, this novel element of these policies may provide you with reassurance if you are heading off for a long trip for the first time.

You can book your policies with these companies online. Alternatively, both provide a telesales support team for arranging cover for more complex programs or to discuss pre-existing illnesses before booking.

It is important to look at a range of quotes before you buy your travel insurance. 1Stop will give you a free quotation without any requirement to purchase, so that you can check out the competition fully informed.

Purchasing your cover is just as simple and can be done online. Simply make sure that you read all the terms and conditions of your insurance policy before buying so that you are sure it offers an adequate level of cover.

If you are planning on going on a number of trips this year, each of less than 45 days, 1Stop recommends an annual travel policy rather than backpackers insurance. Full details of the annual policy and its benefits can be found on the 1Stop website.

If you have been saving up to go abroad in your gap year, you do not want to have to pay a fortune for backpackers travel insurance. etravelinsurance.co.uk offer special rates to provide cheap insurance to protect you and your valuables while you are away.
Visit etravelinsurance.co.uk for your student travel insurance.