What Is Excess?
In UK, Australian, and other non-U.S. markets, the "excess" is exactly what Americans call a deductible — the amount you pay toward a claim before the insurer pays the rest. A travel policy might have a £100 excess per claim; a UK car policy excess applies per incident. Lower excess raises the premium, and vice versa.
Why it matters
If you buy cover abroad, "excess" is the word to watch — it is your out-of-pocket share, just under a different name.
Common confusion
Excess = deductible. The terms are regional, not different concepts; U.S. travelers abroad often miss it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I waive the excess?
Often by paying extra for an excess-waiver add-on, common in rental-car and travel policies.
Is excess per claim or per year?
Usually per claim or per incident, unlike some U.S. health deductibles that are annual.