EES Border Queues Cost Travellers £250: The Insurance Gap

The insurance gap is the real cost risk.

The Association of British Insurers says travel insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of new flights, hotels, or other losses from delays caused by EES queues. Anna-Marie Duthie, travel insurance expert at analysts Defaqto, said no policies explicitly cover EES delays because it is an expected procedure or routine process.

"In practice it is your responsibility to allow additional time for such long queues or delays," she said. There is a slight chance of a claim under missed departure, delay, or abandonment cover. Immigration or border delays are often not listed as covered reasons, she added.

What travellers should do before leaving.

Airlines and travel providers send messages about current waiting times and changes. The Civil Aviation Authority said passengers should check directly with their airline before heading to the airport to allow enough time for security checks and reaching their departure gate. Most airlines have an app that can be downloaded in advance to receive alerts. Checking that texts are enabled and emails do not go into a junk folder is also worth doing before travel.

Building in extra time is the only reliable hedge. The specific advice varies by airport, port, and rail operator. Checking the recommended arrival time with the specific provider in advance is the practical step. The alternative is a £250 lesson in how the new border system works.