Over-65s turn to long-haul and cruise holidays this winter, Aneevo data reveals

Image generated with Ai

New analysis from UK travel insurance provider Aneevo shows that travellers aged over 65 are venturing further than ever for their winter breaks. Policy data collected over the past 12 months, covering trips departing between November and February, points to a clear increase in long-haul and multi-country travel among older holidaymakers.

While Spain and the Canary Islands remain reliable favourites for British travellers, the figures show a growing number of over-65s booking destinations such as Australia, Thailand, India, South Africa, and New Zealand. The trend signals both stronger post-pandemic confidence and a desire for more adventurous experiences among retirees and older travellers.

Shift in travel behaviour among older holidaymakers

According to Aneevo’s insights, today’s 65+ travellers are redefining the traditional winter getaway. Instead of short European breaks, they are staying abroad for longer and choosing destinations that offer warm weather, cultural variety, and opportunities for extended exploration.

Industry data from the UK Civil Aviation Authority supports this shift, showing sustained recovery in long-haul flight capacity and steady demand for premium and extended itineraries. Aneevo’s findings suggest that older travellers now account for a growing share of long-haul bookings during the winter season, particularly in regions offering both sunshine and easy mobility.

This evolution in travel patterns also signals an opportunity for insurance brokers to engage more actively with clients planning complex or far-flung itineraries. Longer and more varied trips bring increased risk and a need for higher-value cover, especially when involving multiple destinations.

Cruises drive rise in multi-country travel

Aneevo’s research highlights that multi-destination travel is becoming more popular within the over-65 age group, often tied to the growing appeal of cruise holidays. Many travellers are now combining destinations such as Spain and Portugal or the Canary Islands and Madeira within the same trip — a pattern largely driven by cruise itineraries.

Cruises remain particularly attractive to mature travellers thanks to their ease of travel, all-in-one pricing, and accessible onboard facilities. For those wishing to visit several destinations without multiple flights or hotel changes, cruises provide both convenience and comfort.

The sector’s expansion also brings additional insurance considerations. Cruise holidays introduce unique risks such as medical treatment at sea, missed port departures, and onboard cancellations, which require dedicated policy features. Aneevo’s analysis underlines the importance for brokers to ensure customers have policies specifically designed to cover these scenarios.

Insurance implications: broader cover and higher limits

The shift toward longer-haul and cruise travel has increased awareness of the potential costs of overseas medical treatment. Aneevo notes that destinations such as the United States continue to generate high claim values, with medical expenses often reaching tens of thousands of pounds.

For brokers, this highlights the importance of proactive discussions about policy limits, medical screening, and cancellation protection. Many travellers still underestimate the financial exposure that can result from an emergency abroad, particularly in high-cost healthcare markets.

In response, Aneevo’s broker network has seen rising demand for policies that include extended medical cover, high cancellation limits, and support for pre-existing conditions. Cruise-specific extensions have also gained popularity, ensuring that older travellers can embark with confidence.

This growth aligns with wider industry trends reported by the Association of British Insurers (ABI), which shows increasing uptake of comprehensive travel insurance among UK travellers aged 60 and over.

Brokers’ role in supporting confident travel

Aneevo’s findings reinforce the vital role that brokers play in supporting older customers through the complexities of modern travel insurance. With travellers now spending longer abroad and taking on more ambitious trips, tailored advice is becoming essential.

Brokers are uniquely positioned to explain differences between standard and specialist policies, helping clients select products that fit their travel style and health profile. The company encourages brokers to discuss coverage for high-value claims, emergency medical evacuation, cruise add-ons, and cancellation flexibility early in the planning process.

Aneevo also recommends that intermediaries remind clients of the importance of declaring pre-existing medical conditions, as failure to do so can invalidate a policy. Ensuring transparency at the application stage helps protect both customers and the brokers representing them.

Changing expectations of the 65+ traveller

The latest figures reflect a generation of travellers who see retirement as a chance to explore the world rather than slow down. Over-65s are increasingly comfortable booking direct online, comparing policies, and planning itineraries that include long-haul flights, adventure elements, and wellness retreats.

This demographic shift suggests that insurers and brokers alike must adapt their communication and product design to cater for customers who are digitally savvy and experience-focused.

For destinations such as Australia, Thailand, and South Africa, the data points to ongoing appeal among senior travellers looking for warmer climates during the UK winter months. For Europe’s cruise and resort operators, the findings suggest a strong market for multi-country packages that blend comfort with exploration.

Key takeaways for the travel trade

• Over-65s are travelling further and staying longer this winter.
• Cruises are driving a noticeable rise in multi-country itineraries.
• Medical costs abroad remain a key concern, particularly in high-cost destinations.
• Brokers are central to ensuring clients have fit-for-purpose cover.
• Comprehensive, flexible travel insurance continues to grow in demand across this age group.