SportsCover Direct has recorded a 77% year-on-year rise in travellers buying specialist cover for ultramarathons abroad, as more holidays are built around endurance events. The insurer’s figures show a 55% increase across endurance and challenge-based sporting events, highlighting demand for ‘racecations’ that combine competing with a trip away.
Half-distance events also recorded stronger growth than their longer counterparts. Half-marathon cover rose 34%, compared with 21% for full marathons, while half-Ironman cover increased 29% against 19% for full-distance events. These figures reflect one insurer’s policy purchases rather than total race entries or the size of the overall travel market.
The autumn calendar offers several examples of trips organised around a start line. The Amsterdam Marathon takes place on October 18, 2026, while Ultra X Madeira runs from October 31 to November 1, with both single-stage and two-stage ultramarathon options on the Portuguese island.
Sport can shape a holiday for spectators, too. In our coverage of football-led holidays, G Adventures has built European trips around VIP match access, combining sport with local food and neighbourhood visits. Racecations take a different approach: travellers compete themselves, with the event setting the itinerary.
Before travelling, check whether your insurance policy covers the specific sport and organised competition, along with relevant medical, equipment and search-and-rescue provisions. SportsCover Direct’s cover depends on the selected activity group and policy conditions. Confirm race entry separately and allow time for arrival, bib collection and recovery when arranging flights and accommodation.
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