When Martin Lewis speaks, people listen. And when it comes to holiday finances, his advice could save you thousands.
We know how important timing is when it comes to protecting your trip. That’s why we’re fully on board with Martin’s latest travel tip: buy your Travel Insurance ASAB – As Soon As You Book. Not when you start packing. Not the night before your flight. The moment your holiday is confirmed.
Why timing matters with Travel Insurance
It’s easy to think Travel Insurance only kicks in once you’re sunbathing or sightseeing. But that’s a common misconception. The moment you pay a deposit or confirm a booking, you’re financially exposed.
Whether it’s a sudden illness or a family emergency, having Travel Insurance from day one means you’re covered for the unexpected before you even leave home.
Martin Lewis puts it simply:
“Absolutely, my travel insurance rule is get it ASAB, as soon as you book.”
It happens every year: people book in January for an August holiday, but delay buying insurance until July. Then something happens in May, and they’re left footing the bill. It’s avoidable. Get covered early and travel with peace of mind.
Single Trip vs. Annual Travel Insurance: What does “ASAB” really mean?
Martin Lewis clarifies an important detail:
For Single Trip Travel Insurance:
- Buy as soon as you book your trip.
- You need to enter your travel dates – the date you’ll leave the UK and the date you’ll return.
- But by paying upfront, your cancellation cover begins immediately.
“If you’re going away from the 1st to the 10th of August, and you’re doing it in January, you go in January onto the website, you say you’re going away on the 1st to the 10th of August, you pay for it in January – that means you have the travel insurance in place to cover that holiday.”
“You don’t need to list extra days just in case of delays. If something happens on your return, that would still be covered, because that delay is all part of the travel insurance.”
For Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance:
- Start your annual policy from the date you buy it, not the date of your holiday.
- That way, any trip you book within the next 12 months is instantly covered.
Martin puts it simply:
“If you’re planning to get an annual policy and you’re going away in August, and you’re getting an annual policy in January… you need to have the start date be the January date that you’re buying it, to be covered for the August holiday.”
Planning multiple holidays this year? Our Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance might be your best option.
Why Martin’s “ASAB” rule is a must
Martin’s advice isn’t about being alarmist; it’s about being prepared.
When you buy Travel Insurance at the same time you book, you’re protecting:
- Your trip
- Your finances
- Your peace of mind
And at AllClear, we’re proud to say 98% of customers rate their experience with us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’1.
That means trusted cover when you need it most.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re off on a summer escape or planning ahead for next year, remember this:
The best time to buy Travel Insurance is the moment you book your holiday. It’s a simple habit that could save you thousands and a lot of stress.
We’re here to help you travel with confidence. Explore our Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance options today and make ASAB your new golden rule.
- Based on 185,000+ Trustpilot responses, as of June 2025.
