Quick summary: The rapid growth of active travel has seen an increase in tourists combining holidays with overseas marathons to boost their physical and mental well being, but insurance experts warn that standard policies frequently fail to cover organised sporting events. Medical professionals caution that the physical strain of long haul travel and high intensity racing significantly increases the risk of illness or injury, particularly for individuals with pre existing health conditions. These findings underscore a critical gap in consumer awareness, highlighting an urgent need for healthcare practice and travel policy to emphasize the necessity of specialist endurance cover alongside physical training to prevent catastrophic financial and medical risks abroad.
Active travel is booming, with more people combining holidays with endurance events such as marathons abroad — but insurance experts warn that many tourists lack adequate specialist cover when exercising overseas.
Major races such as Tokyo, Berlin, New York, and London collectively attract over 1.1 million runners each year. National Geographic has named running vacations among the next major travel trends, while hospitality group Accor has predicted that athletic-focused travel will be one of the defining holiday movements of the year. Running USA’s Global Runner Survey found that location is now the number one factor runners consider when choosing a race, ahead of traditional race-day considerations.
Sarah Findlay, travel expert at Total Travel Protection, says the growth reflects a wider shift in how people approach both holidays and well-being: “More people are recognising that exercise-based holidays can support both physical and mental well-being. Having a race or running event to train for often gives people purpose and routine, which can be hugely beneficial. Holidays are no longer just about relaxation — they’re about experiences, achievement, and well-being. Active holidays combine all three, whether that’s a race weekend, a longer active break, or choosing accommodation that supports training and recovery.”
Dr Kathryn Basford at Asda Online Doctor cautions that the physical demands of racing abroad carry real risks: “Travelling for endurance events places extra strain on the body. Long-haul flights, disrupted sleep, heat, dehydration, and unfamiliar terrain can all increase the risk of illness or injury. Anyone with a pre-existing medical condition such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or joint problems should seek medical advice before travelling, particularly when combining it with high-intensity physical activity.”
Alongside physical preparation, experts say insurance is another area where active travellers are often caught off guard. Findlay explains: “Many travellers assume standard policies automatically cover organised sporting events, but this is not always the case. Certain policies don’t allow sporting activities to take up 50% or more of the planned holiday, or will not provide cover if sport is the primary reason for travel. Those entering marathons, triathlons, or other endurance events will need specialist cover or an add-on policy.”
Runners should pay particular attention to whether their policy covers
- Participation in an organised race
- Medical treatment overseas
- Cancellation due to injury before departure
- Sports equipment
- Emergency repatriation
- Claims linked to a pre-existing medical condition
Findlay also warns that failing to disclose pre-existing medical conditions could invalidate future claims entirely.
As active holidays continue to grow in popularity, experts say preparation is no longer just about training plans and pacing. Without the right insurance in place, the real risk starts long before race day.