When budgeting for your dream holiday, the cost of travel insurance is important to think about. It’s an additional price to pay, but it could save you thousands in medical bills, lost luggage or cancellations. There are a few things that can affect the cost of your policy, which we’ll explore in this guide. 

What can affect the cost of travel insurance?

The cost of travel insurance can depend on a range of risks that insurers look at when working out your quote.

Age

As you get older, there’s more chance of getting ill on holiday and needing to make a claim on your travel insurance. That’s why you might notice your travel policy getting more expensive each year.

Destination

Where you’re going on holiday can also affect the cost of your travel insurance. For a trip to the States, you could expect to pay more for your policy because the cost of medical bills and the cost to get you home is far higher than in European countries.

Some countries are also lower risk because the cost of getting you home would be lower from France than from New Zealand, for example. European destinations are also often cheaper because you can access discounted or free medical care with a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). So if you have a medical emergency, this can reduce the cost of your claim.

Length of stay

The longer you’re away, the more likely you are to need to make a claim on your travel insurance. That’s why you’ll usually pay more for a three week trip than a weekend break, even to the same destination.

Pre-existing conditions

When you get a travel insurance quote, you’ll be asked about any pre-existing medical conditions you have.

This can affect the cost of your travel insurance, as medical conditions make you more likely to need emergency medical care when abroad. Having conditions also makes you more likely to cancel your holiday if you’re unwell, or if you have to fly home early.

Even though this can affect the cost of your policy, it’s important to be honest about your health as you’ll want to make sure you’re covered in case you need help.

Choose an insurance provider that can cover pre-existing medical conditions, as not all policies will be able to offer you cover if you have conditions, which could leave you unprotected.

Type of policy

The type of travel policy you need can also have an impact on the cost.

Single trip travel cover is normally the most affordable option, as it covers you for the dates you’re away for and cancellations up till you go. But if you like to jet off on more than one holiday a year, it could be more cost effective to go for an annual multi-trip policy.

Annual travel insurance can cover up to 12 months worth of holidays in one policy, depending on how long your trips are. This will usually have a higher upfront cost, but spread out over 2-3 holidays a year, can work out cheaper than buying several single trip policies.

How to keep the cost of your travel insurance down

Think longer term about your chosen policy 

You might be just trying to cover your next weekend break to Barcelona, but do you have any other holidays on the horizon? If you do, it’s a good idea to work out whether an annual multi-trip policy will save you some money in the long-run. It could also save the hassle of organising another policy when your next trip comes around.

The cheapest option isn’t always better

When you compare quotes for your travel cover, you might be tempted to just go for the cheapest option available. But cheap policies often come with a higher excess or lower limits. This means if you need to claim, you could still be out of pocket.

Compare quotes for travel insurance

Shopping around will help you find the best travel policy that suits your needs. You can get a quote online in minutes with PayingTooMuch and compare trusted insurers to cover your next holiday with an affordable policy. 

By Mikaela Bartlett
Mikaela Bartlett is SEO Editor at PayingTooMuch. She loves to explore places off the beaten path and sharing tips to make travel as easy and stress-free as possible.

A marriage proposal is one of the most important milestones in your relationship. Some make the occasion special with big gestures, while others choose to surprise their partner on holiday. With so many different romantic locations to choose from, which are the best suited to you and your love story?

To find out, we looked at proposal destinations around the world. This included comparing things like couple-based activities, romantic hotels, food and drink, and the average expenses for each visit. Using TikTok data, our study also uncovers the most popular places, attractions, and landmarks for popping the question.

We also spoke to two couples who have recently got engaged abroad. From researching the perfect beach, to getting your ring and travel insurance sorted, they’ve shared top tips for planning your holiday proposal. 

The 20 most romantic destinations for marriage proposals

Whether you’re planning to get down on one knee in a candlelit restaurant, or popping the question on top of a mountain, these are the top 20 most romantic destinations to propose.

1. Santorini, Greece

Santorini has been crowned the most romantic destination for proposals. With the highest number of romantic restaurants per 1,000 people (13), you’ll have the chance to enjoy plenty of candlelit dinners as you watch the sun go down. If the traditional Greek dinners haven’t won you over, Santorini also has the highest number of romantic hotels per 1,000 people (39),  although one-night’s stay will set visitors back an average of £137.50 per night. 

Santorini’s iconic white-washed buildings, blue-dome churches and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea should give you all the inspiration you need to find the perfect proposal location.  

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi coast has come in as the second-most romantic destination for marriage proposals, with the highest number of activities (48). With the top attractions costing an average of £70.17, you can set out on a private boat tour of the Capri coastline, go hiking along scenic trails and even explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii. If you choose to propose after one of these activities, make sure to celebrate with some wine in one of the local restaurants . A bottle costs an average of just £4.30. 

Once you’ve popped the question, you can even celebrate with a three-course meal at an average of just £34.39 for two.

3. Agra, India 

Agra follows in third and it’s no surprise when the city holds one of the most love-inspired buildings in the world. Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. That’s why the UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most iconic symbols of love. 

Although there are only a few romantic restaurants (20) and hotels (22) for every 1,000 people in Agra, it’s the ideal destination for those who wish to put more of their budget towards the proposal or ring itself. On average, hotel costs in the city are the cheapest at just £14.00, and a three-course meal could set you back just £11.62. The Taj Mahal’s gardens will give you some of the most charming backdrops for proposals, with its symmetrical pathways and calming pools.

The five most affordable romantic destinations for marriage proposals

These proposal destinations have their own unique quality and charm. While they could seem perfect for your love story’s milestone, you’ll want to make sure that they also work with your budget. With that in mind, we’ve looked at each destination’s prices to reveal the most affordable during your stay. 

1. Hội An, Vietnam

The study revealed Hội An to be the most affordable romantic destination. Couples will find the lowest average cost for a three-course meal in the Vietnamese city, at an incredible £9.09. The average cost of accommodation is also low, at £16.50 per night. 

The streets of Hội An are lit with lanterns every evening, and whether you’re wandering the ancient streets or floating on the canals, this town offers many unique settings for a proposal. There are plenty of activities, such as spa treatments and lantern-making classes, to help keep your partner unaware of the holiday’s true purpose. With the top attractions averaging £54.59, you could even propose on the waters of Hạ Long Bay, surrounded by limestone islands and rainforests. 

2. Agra, India

Agra tops the charts once again, with the study revealing the Indian city as the second-most affordable romantic destination, thanks to its cheap accommodation and meals out. For a truly unique experience, be sure to plan ahead so you can find a hotel with views of the Taj Mahal. 

You’ll also have lots to explore on your holiday, with the top attractions averaging £56.10. This could include visits to the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, where you’ll capture large bulbous domes, massive halls and large vaulted gateways. Plus, for those looking to enjoy a glass of wine or two with your partner,  a bottle of wine in the city will set you back an average of just £6.93. 

3. Marrakech, Morocco

Whether you’re wandering through the High Atlas Mountains, or riding across the sands of the Desert Agafay on camel-back, Marrakech offers some of the lowest-costing attractions, averaging £28.53. The city also offers affordable accommodation, at an average cost of £58.50 per night. 

You’ll find plenty of romantic spots in Marrakech too, from the Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden, to the tangled streets and exotic markets. While you’re there, why not also treat your partner to some of Morocco’s most renowned culinary dishes, before watering it all down with a bottle of wine (£4.71 average cost).

The most popular proposal destinations on social media

With so many idyllic and affordable proposal destinations, which ones do people choose to get engaged in the most? To find out, we’ve turned to TikTok to uncover the proposal destinations, attractions and landmarks with the most hashtag views.

The world’s 10 most popular proposal destinations on TikTok

1. Paris - 78,800,000 views
2. Lake Como - 13,896,200 views
3. Napa Valley - 11,300,000 views
4. London - 10,445,800 views
5. New York - 6,951,700 views
6. Cancun - 6,500,900 views
7. Maldives - 4,900,000 views
8. San Francisco - 4,615,100 views
9. Santorini - 3,452,000 views
10. Bali - 2,800,000 views

The world’s popular proposal destinations are mostly in Europe and the Americas. It comes as no surprise to see the city of love taking the lead. Being home to many iconic and romantic spots, Paris has 78.8 million views for TikTok posts under the hashtags #Parisengagement and #Parisproposal. 

Lake Como is the runner-up, with the impressive Italian Lake earning 13.9 million  hashtag views on the platform. Following in third is California’s Napa Valley. Famed for its hillside vineyards, Napa Valley has collected a total of 11.3 million hashtag views on TikTok.

The UK’s 10 most popular proposal destinations on TikTok

1. London - 10,445,800 views
2. Cornwall - 320,100 views
3. Edinburgh - 33,900 views
4. Lake District - 2,163 views
5. Loch Lomond - 2,034 views
6. Bath - 1,272 views
7. Brighton - 1,189 views
8. Cambridge - 1,154 views
9. Glasgow - 920 views
10. Oxford - 437 views

While going on holiday can be incredibly romantic, the UK has plenty of romantic spots that are perfect for getting down on one knee. London has come out as the UK’s most popular proposal destination, with 10.4 million TikTok views for posts featuring #Londonengagement and #Londonproposal. 

Second is Cornwall, with 320,100 hashtag views on the platform. Edinburgh comes in third with a total of 33,900 hashtag views for its proposal posts.

The 15 most popular landmarks where people propose

1. Central Park - 24,000,000 views
2. Trevi Fountain - 16,101,034 views
3. Disneyland - 7,100,000 views
4. Walt Disney World - 4,656,900 views
5. Eiffel Tower - 1,538,500 views
6. Tower Bridge - 739,400 views
7. Burj Khalifa - 37,400 views
8. Brooklyn Bridge - 33,300 views
9. Machu Picchu - 30,100 views
10. Grand Canyon - 26,219 views
11. Niagara Falls - 23,061 views
12. Times Square - 7,506 views
13. Lincoln Memorial - 5,496 views
14. Universal Studios - 3,312 views
15. Grand Central - 1,539 views

Landmarks are a popular choice for engagement spots, and our study has looked into which of the world's attractions are most favoured for marriage proposals. New York’s Central Park is crowned the most popular, boasting the highest number of hashtag views on TikTok (24 million). Rome’s Trevi Fountain is also very popular, with 16.1 million hashtag views on the platform. 

Home of the iconic Cinderella’s Castle, Disneyland is in third place, with 7.1 million hashtag views for its engagement and proposal posts. Another Disney resort follows in fourth place, with Disney World collecting a total of 4.6 million TikTok views. Rounding out the top five is the Eiffel Tower, with 1.5 million hashtag views.

Top tips for the perfect proposal 

To find out more about destination proposals, couples Shannon and Jordan, and CIément and Shanna have shared their experiences and advice for couples planning their proposal. 

1. Just do it

Shannon and Jordan got engaged last July, with Jordan popping the question on a beach in Mallorca. On why they chose to get engaged abroad Shannon said, “It was about the environment for us, we were both happy and smiling all holiday, and Jordan thought it was the perfect time and setting.”

She continues, “For any couples thinking about getting engaged abroad, just do it. It doesn’t have to be an expensive all-inclusive holiday. It was so nice to just be with each other, and we loved every minute of it.”

2. Plan the proposal

For Clément and Shanna, the in-depth planning is what made their Bali engagement so special. On the advice they would give to other couples, Shanna says, “Definitely plan the proposal ahead of time. Clément booked a planner for it and they sorted out the most perfect setting, and offered the best options for things like dinner, photos, and musicians.”

3. Keep the ring (and other belongings) safe 

Our final tip comes from Managing Director, Darren Saunders who says, “The last thing you want to do before you propose is to lose or misplace the ring. If you’re flying, keep it in your carry on, and take out separate insurance for it too, as cover for jewellery under your travel insurance will be limited. 

“While we hope your proposal goes off without a hitch, you should also make sure you’re protected with travel insurance before you fly. That way, you know you’re covered for things like medical expenses, lost luggage, and cancellations.”

Methodology & Sources

We collected a seed list of the top 50 romantic locations commonly suggested in travel articles and blogs online. Using this list, we created the Proposal Travel Index ranking scoring each location across 7 metrics to reveal the world’s best proposal destinations.

 The metrics included: 

• The number of romantic restaurants*
• The average cost of a three-course meal for 2
• The average cost of a bottle of wine
• The number of activities suitable for couples*
• The average cost of the top-rated attractions
• The number of romantic hotels*
• The average cost of accommodation per night 

*Metrics were made relative to the location’s population to make the data relative and consider potential variations in crowd density. 

Alongside the index, we also used TikTok data to reveal the most popular locations, attractions, and landmarks where people propose. To do this, we looked at the locations and attractions with the highest number of views for the hashtags #[location]engagement and #[location]proposal.

Data correct as of September 2023. 

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives people who live in the UK access to state-supplied emergency healthcare in EU countries, at a discounted price or for free. It was previously known as the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and gives holiday goers extra reassurance when they’re travelling the world.

But is it a replacement for travel insurance? Keep reading to find out.

What does a GHIC/EHIC cover?

Both GHIC and EHIC cards cover you for ‘medically necessary’ treatment in EU countries. If your illness must be treated abroad and can’t wait until you return to the UK, you’ll be given state-supplied healthcare at a discounted price, or for free. This includes:

• Emergency and necessary healthcare at state-owned facilities - Treatment is sometimes free, but usually charged at a discount price. The cost will depend on how much locals pay
  
• GP appointments and A&E visits - This also includes necessary treatment
• Routine maternity care and unexpected labour abroad
• Treatment for pre-existing health conditions
• Routine treatments such as dialysis and oxygen therapy - Appointments must be booked before starting your trip

What doesn’t a GHIC/EHIC cover?

GHIC/EHIC cards can only be used if treatment is classed as necessary or an emergency.

Cover doesn’t include:

• Private treatment - Whether it's by a resort GP, in a hospital or at a private clinic
• Cruise care in port
• Help getting home after an accident (called repatriation), or airlifting
• Prescriptions - You’ll be expected to pay for prescribed and personal medication
• Planned treatment/healthcare - If you’ve scheduled healthcare or plan to have a baby abroad, it will not be covered by a GHIC/EHIC card
• Tests - You might be asked to contribute towards tests. If so, you won’t be able to claim the cost back with your card
  
• Other expenses - The cost of hospital meals, laundry and other expenses can’t be claimed back. But you might be able to claim it back on travel insurance

Which countries can I use a GHIC/EHIC in?

GHIC/EHIC cards are valid in most countries in the EU. This includes:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Republic of Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovenia
• Slovakia
• Spain
• Sweden

Can I use a GHIC/EHIC in European countries outside the EU?

Switzerland

You can use a GHIC/EHIC card in Switzerland if you’re a:

• UK citizen
• EU citizen
• Swiss national
• Stateless person
• Refugee
• Survivor or dependant on someone with one of the above statuses

Norway

GHIC and most UK EHIC cards aren’t recognised in Norway, but you can use a British passport to access necessary, state-provided healthcare. But you will be expected to make a contribution.

Iceland/ Liechtenstein

Like Norway, the GHIC and most EHIC cards aren’t valid in Iceland and Liechtenstein . To make sure you’re covered for a medical emergency, you’ll need travel insurance.

EU, Norwegian, Swiss, Icelandic or Liechtenstein nationals living in the UK before January 1 2021 can still apply for the new EHIC card. It’s valid across the EU and Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein. People who moved to the UK after 01/01/2021 aren’t eligible.

Are EHIC cards still valid?

EHIC cards can still be used until they expire, so there’s no need to replace them. In most cases, UK nationals applying for a new EHIC card will get the GHIC. They offer the same level of cover and can both be used in EU countries.

How can I apply for a GHIC/EHIC?

To apply, visit the official NHS website and fill out the form for free. Cards usually arrive within 20 working days after approval, so give yourself plenty of time to apply before a trip.

Don’t apply through any sites charging a fee. They might look legitimate, but they’re copycats. Applications are always 100% free.

Do I still need travel insurance?

GHIC/EHIC can give you great medical cover, but travel insurance can protect you for much more. It’s important to buy holiday cover every time you travel to make sure you’re covered for all eventualities.

Most standard policies cover you for:

• Repatriation (emergency transport back to the UK)
• Emergency medical care
• Cancellations
• Delays
• Loss, damage or theft of personal items (including your passport and money)
• Lost luggage
• Personal liability
• Travel disruptions

What’s the best type of insurance to get if I already have a GHIC/EHIC?

Buying good quality travel insurance for a trip to Europe can cover you for more than just medical emergencies.

If you’re going on a cruise, specialist cruise insurance can give you extra cover for eventualities that might happen at sea. This might include reimbursement if you’re confined to your cabin or miss a port, or emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.

If you’re going on a winter holiday, winter sports cover can protect you against costs incurred as a result of piste closures, avalanches and landslides. It can also help towards the cost if your ski equipment is stolen, lost or damaged.

There is plenty of flexibility in terms of what type of cover you buy. If you’re a regular traveller, an annual multi-trip policy could save you time and money. Buy once and get cover for a whole year*. If you only have one trip booked, a single trip policy might be the cheaper option.

For the best protection, having travel insurance and a GHIC/EHIC card will give you the best level of cover when you’re travelling in Europe.

*There will be limitations on how long each trip can be. Check the small print for more information