So you’ve booked your flight, started breaking in those boots, and maybe even practiced saying “Namaste” in the mirror. Next on the prep list? Trekking insurance. Specifically: insurance that actually does something when your lungs say “nope” at 5,000 meters and a helicopter becomes your best friend.
If you’re from the UK and heading for Everest Base Camp (EBC), you’ll need coverage that includes helicopter evacuation, high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000–7,000 meters), and medical. We trawled through real trekker reviews and compiled what actual Brits are using — and what they’ve said when things went sideways.
🧭 Quick TL;DR
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Campbell Irvine, Trailfinders, and True Traveller get strong marks across the board.
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BMC (British Mountaineering Council) and Austrian Alpine Club are excellent for serious trekkers or climbers.
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Avoid relying solely on standard holiday insurance. Most don’t cover trekking above 3,500m — and Everest Base Camp is way above that.
🏅 Most-Recommended by Real UK Trekkers
1. Campbell Irvine
This one came up a lot. And not just because it covers helicopter rescue — it’s also been tested by people who had to use it.
“I used Campbell Irvine who included heli evac for an excess of £500. I did end up needing to use it and it was all covered, no problem, as well as the medical bills from the hospital!”
Campbell Irvine’s policies are tailored for adventure travel, and they cover EBC-level altitude without a ton of fine-print hurdles. The excess (usually £500) is pretty standard, and the pricing seems to hover around the reasonable mark.
“I researched reviews and Campbell came up good. I figured in an emergency I need a company that will respond quickly and I don’t have to pay upfront.”
Well said.
2. Trailfinders
Another fan favorite — not just for insurance, but for their overall trekking support.
“Trailfinders cover you up to 7,000 meters and yes, they do helicopter rescue. I think you pay $500 excess which seems to be normal.”
“Sorted today with Trailfinders — £115.”
Affordable, easy to buy, and highly recommended across the board. Some also mentioned that Trailfinders doesn’t make a fuss about pre-existing conditions or unusual itineraries.
3. True Traveller
Best for those who want to tick a lot of boxes: helicopter rescue, altitude, lost baggage, and even trip cancellations. Just make sure to flag Nepal and EBC on the form.
“Recently bought a policy with True Traveller for a trip in March. Went with the Ultimate Travel option. Included heli evac, lost baggage, etc. Cost £335.88.”
Bit pricier, but it’s comprehensive — and works well for those combining trekking with other travel around Asia.
4. BMC (British Mountaineering Council)
If you’re serious about mountains, BMC is your crew. You need to be a member to access their insurance, but many say it’s worth it.
“BMC every time for me. Had a claim for $10k and they paid swiftly when they received the details.”
BMC is especially popular with mountaineers, climbers, and seasoned trekkers. The kind of people who carry duct tape and ibuprofen like they’re first aid essentials.
5. Austrian Alpine Club (UK Branch)
This is more niche, but for those in the know, it’s a fantastic option — especially for higher-altitude trekking and technical climbs.
“Austrian Alpine Club will cover heli rescue up to 6,000 meters, then supplement with your regular holiday insurance for Kathmandu.”
Some folks pair this with cheaper general travel insurance for their city stays. Smart thinking.
🚁 The Helicopter Reality
One thing echoed in almost every thread: budget for a helicopter, even if you’re insured.
“I paid $350 for Lukla to KTM. Friends who went from higher up paid $1,200 for two.”
“Still had to deal with a helicopter ride from Lukla to Kathmandu because of flight shortages. Next time, I’d give myself more time just in case.”
Even when covered, insurers often require approval before you can summon that chopper. So, carry a credit card, stay in touch with your insurer, and if possible, travel with a guide who can help coordinate during an emergency.
🏔️ Everest Base Camp Insurance Comparison (For UK Trekkers)
| Company | Max Altitude Covered | Heli Evac Included? | Claim Experience | Estimated Cost | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Campbell Irvine | 6,000–7,000 m | ✅ Yes (£500 excess) | ✅ Positive (used successfully) | £115–£200+ | Well-reviewed, responsive in emergencies, no upfront payment for heli in some cases |
| Trailfinders | Up to 7,000 m | ✅ Yes (~£500 excess) | ✅ Good | ~£115 | Affordable, easy to purchase, covers all essentials for EBC |
| True Traveller | Up to 6,000+ m (EBC valid) | ✅ Yes (Ultimate plan) | ✅ Good | £300–£350 | Customizable coverage, includes baggage loss, add-on options available |
| BMC (Mountaineering Council) | 7,000 m+ | ✅ Yes (for members) | ✅ Excellent (£10k claim paid) | ~£300+ (with membership) | Designed for mountaineers, great for serious trekking, fast claims |
| Austrian Alpine Club (UK) | Up to 6,000 m | ✅ Yes (paired with regular insurance) | ⚠️ Not widely tested | ~£50–£100/year (membership fee) | Covers alpine rescue; best when supplemented by another travel policy |
| Post Office | Likely ≤3,500 m | ⚠️ Unclear | ❓ Unknown | Varies | May not cover EBC altitude or heli rescue — must confirm with provider |
🗝️ Key Notes for UK Trekkers
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Always confirm that your policy:
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Covers trekking up to 5,500m or higher
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Includes emergency helicopter evacuation
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Doesn’t require you to pay upfront for heli rescue
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Covers you even if you’re trekking without a guide
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BMC and AAC are best for mountaineers and higher altitudes but may require extra steps or add-ons.
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Trailfinders and Campbell Irvine are top picks for straightforward, proven coverage used by dozens of EBC trekkers.
🧾 Final Advice
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✅ Double-check altitude limits — aim for at least 6,000m coverage.
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✅ Heli evacuation must be explicitly included.
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✅ Ask about pre-existing conditions if applicable.
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✅ Buffer days are essential for Lukla flight delays or backup options.
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🚫 Don’t rely on Post Office or credit card insurance unless you’ve seen the word “helicopter” and “above 5,000m” in writing.
✈️ Bottom Line: Get Covered, Then Go Climb Stuff
For UK trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp, the insurance market is actually pretty solid. You’ve got well-reviewed options that don’t cost a fortune, do cover the things that matter, and have come through for real people when Everest decided to throw a curveball.
Get it sorted, print your policy, load up your snacks, and go enjoy one of the greatest walks on Earth.
