How much is travel insurance for musicians?

The cost of travel insurance will depend on several factors. These include your destination, the type of instruments that you're bringing, and the length of your policy. The MU offers specialist travel insurance from just £20.

What does Musicians Union travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance from the Musicians' Union covers musicians and their instruments while working outside the UK. It provides peace of mind against loss or damage while you navigate performing abroad.

Do musicians need travel insurance?

If you're planning to take musical instruments abroad, travel insurance is critical. From air cargo to touring transit, it's always worth protecting your equipment against any travel-specific damage.

Travel Insurance for Musicians

Specialised travel insurance for individuals in the Performing & Creative Arts.

Last updated: 14 October 2025

Why get travel insurance?

As a musician, your career may involve working and travelling abroad. Whether you're touring, working on a cruise, in live events, recording or working as a sound & lighting engineer, it's essential to have the right travel insurance to protect yourself.

Travel insurance for Musicians’ Union Members

The MU’s preferred insurance broker Hencilla Canworth GI – which also provides public liability and personal accident insurance as well as the equipment insurance scheme – offers specialised travel insurance tailored for performing artists overseas.

The policies cover both work and holiday travel, whether you're performing or taking a break, you’re protected. You can choose a plan that best suits your needs and budget.

Types of Travel Insurance Cover Available

Short Stay (One-Off Single Trips)

No maximum age

If you have a specific engagement or event, a Short Stay policy might be perfect for you. This type of cover is designed for single trips lasting up to 62 days. It’s ideal for those quick tours or gigs abroad where you need comprehensive coverage for a limited time. Please be aware 75+ is restricted to 31 days.

Long Stay (One continuous journey, from 62 days up to 18 months)

Maximum age - 69 (at departure date) terms & conditions apply.

Planning an extended tour? Long Stay policies cover one continuous journey from 62 days up to 18 months. This is perfect for artists who have long-term commitments overseas, providing robust coverage which includes return to your home country for maximum of 5 short visits up to 2 weeks per visit.

Annual Policies (Multiple trips within a year, up to 45 days/trip)

For those frequently on the move, an annual policy might be the best option. This plan covers multiple trips within a year, with a standard single-trip limit of 45 days. However, you can extend this limit to 62 days as an additional add-on. An annual policy is cost-effective and convenient if you have two or more trips planned within the year and they fit within the trip duration limits. This can also accommodate families including children (Under 18s will have to be accompanied by an adult)

Get a travel quote

Please note the following:

Personal accident insurance and public/personal liability will not be covered as standard under this policy while you are working. However, as a member of the MU, this cover is provided within your membership.
Travel insurance does not cover any musical instruments, though as a member of the MU, musical instrument and equipment is covered worldwide up to the value of £3,000 provided you have registered for cover. Otherwise, cover can be arranged at https://www.muinsure.com/ or can be discussed with specialist Mark Hopkinson on 0208 090 7850 or mark.hopkinson@howdengroup.com.

Interested in getting covered? It's quick and easy, ensuring you're ready to hit the road without any worries. Here is the link you need for getting a quote and purchase your policy online: If you would like to apply for instrument insurance that covers you when you travel, get a quote today.

Get a travel quote

Need Help?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can email our travel expert Sean at sean.woodman@howdengropup.com us or call our office on 0208 090 7836 for advice and support.

Member benefits and services

Worldwide Instrument Insurance

If you are travelling abroad – as a freelance musician or with an orchestra – ensure that your insurance is activated before you travel.

Free Visa & Work Permit Advice

Access Viva La Visa's free advice line for guidance on visas, work permits or travel documentation for touring abroad. Members also receive a 20% discount on any services.

Discounts on ATA Carnets

MU members requiring ATA Carnets for travel can take advantage of exclusive discounts from LCC or Boomerang

Contract Advisory Service

Protect yourself against unpaid fees by making sure that your tour or engagement is covered by a written contract. Have it vetted by the MU for added peace of mind.

Professional Advice for US Visa Issues

We partner with professional organisations that offer free guidance and discounted services to MU members

Travel Insurance

Specialised travel insurance for individuals in the Performing & Creative Arts

International Tax Advice

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