Millions of British tourists visit the United States every year. Most book flights, hotels, and activities — but skip the one thing that matters most: travel insurance for the USA. This guide explains the real cost of going uninsured, exactly what you need, and how to find the right plan for your trip.
Quick Answer
British tourists visiting the USA need visitor medical insurance — the NHS covers nothing in America. A comprehensive plan with $100,000 in coverage costs as little as $1.50–$4 per day. Don't confuse this with the UK travel insurance you might use for European trips — most UK policies have US coverage caps that fall far short of actual US hospital costs.
The NHS Gap: Why Your UK Coverage Doesn't Follow You
British tourists often assume their NHS entitlement or UK travel insurance will cover them in the USA. It won't. The NHS is a UK-only service. Once you land in America, you are on your own medically — unless you have a dedicated visitor insurance policy.
Even UK travel insurance policies that claim "worldwide" coverage often cap US medical expenses at £10,000–£30,000. A single night in a US hospital typically costs $10,000–$30,000. A cardiac event, a broken leg from a ski accident, or a car accident requiring surgery can easily produce bills of $100,000–$500,000. That is a financial catastrophe for any family.
Real cost context: In the USA, an ambulance ride costs $1,000–$3,000. An emergency room visit costs $1,500–$5,000. A 3-day hospital stay costs $30,000–$90,000. A cardiac surgery runs $50,000–$200,000. Without insurance, these bills come directly to you.
What to Look for in a Plan for British Tourists
- High medical maximum: $100,000 minimum for healthy adults under 50. $500,000+ for anyone 60+ or with any chronic health condition.
- Pre-existing condition coverage: Covers the acute onset of a known chronic condition — for example, a heart attack in someone with existing heart disease. Essential for travellers 55+.
- Emergency evacuation: Covers medical transport, including air ambulance back to the UK. Look for at least $500,000.
- Low or $0 deductible: A $0 deductible means the insurer covers everything from the first dollar. Higher deductibles reduce premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs.
- PPO network access: Plans with PPO network access allow you to visit any US doctor, hospital, or specialist without a referral.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for British Tourists?
Approximate costs for $100,000 coverage with a $250 deductible:
| Age | 14 Days | 30 Days | 90 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 30 | $15–$28 | $32–$60 | $95–$180 |
| 30–49 | $20–$35 | $42–$75 | $125–$225 |
| 50–64 | $35–$65 | $75–$140 | $220–$420 |
| 65–74 | $65–$120 | $140–$260 | $420–$780 |
| 75+ | $120–$200+ | $260–$430+ | $780–$1,300+ |
* Costs vary by plan, deductible, and coverage amount. Get an exact quote in 2 minutes.
Best Plans for British Tourists Visiting USA — 2026
IMG
Patriot America Plus
The most widely purchased visitor insurance plan for UK nationals in the USA. Flexible deductibles, coverage up to $1,000,000, and an extensive PPO network covering any US hospital or doctor.
Max Coverage
Up to $1M
Deductible
$0–$2,500
Pre-Existing
Acute onset
- ✓High coverage limits up to $1,000,000
- ✓Acute onset pre-existing condition coverage
- ✓Any US doctor, hospital, or emergency room
- ✓Emergency evacuation up to $1,000,000
- ✓Prescription drug benefit included
Trawick International
Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
Top choice for British tourists with ongoing health conditions. Telemedicine access included — useful for routine consultations during longer stays without visiting a US doctor in person.
Max Coverage
Up to $1M
Deductible
$0–$5,000
Telemedicine
Included
WorldTrips
Atlas America
Up to $2,000,000 in coverage at competitive rates. Ideal for budget-conscious British tourists who still want maximum protection for longer US road trips or extended visits.
Max Coverage
Up to $2M
Deductible
$0–$5,000
Evacuation
$1,000,000
ESTA and Entry Requirements for British Tourists
UK nationals can enter the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for stays of up to 90 days. Travel insurance is not a requirement for ESTA approval, but Customs and Border Protection officers can ask about your ability to cover medical costs. More importantly, the financial risk of travelling without insurance to the USA is simply too high. Buy coverage before you board.
Get Your USA Travel Insurance Quote
Compare plans from IMG, Trawick, and WorldTrips. Instant quote, instant coverage. Takes about 2 minutes.
Compare Plans →Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance required for British tourists entering the USA?
No — travel insurance is not legally required for ESTA entry. However, US healthcare costs are the highest in the world and the NHS provides zero coverage in America. A single hospitalisation can cost $100,000+. The financial risk of travelling uninsured is extremely high.
Does my UK bank travel insurance cover me in the USA?
Bank travel insurance policies (such as those bundled with Nationwide Flex Plus or Barclays Premier accounts) typically have very low US medical coverage limits — often £10,000–£20,000. This is insufficient for serious US medical events. Check your policy's US coverage limit carefully before relying on it.
Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in the USA?
Some plans can be purchased after arrival, but coverage typically cannot begin the same day and there may be a waiting period. It is strongly recommended to purchase before you travel. Any conditions that arise before coverage starts will be excluded.
What if I need to extend my stay?
Most visitor insurance plans allow you to extend your coverage before the policy expires and before any claim has been filed. Contact Tower Hill's support team to arrange an extension — you should not be left without coverage.
Does visitor insurance cover adventure activities?
Standard visitor insurance covers most activities including hiking, cycling, and swimming. Extreme sports such as skydiving, bungee jumping, and professional motor racing may require additional riders or specialist coverage. Check the plan certificate for specific exclusions.