Day Insurance (UK)

If you need insurance for a short period, such as a day, you may be looking for flexible cover that matches your plans. Availability can depend on provider and vehicle details, so comparing options is often the quickest way to see what's available.

Reviewed by MySupermarketCompare Editorial Team

✓ Compare short-term options from UK providers✓ No obligation, check options anytime✓ Start your quote online now
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What you'll need to start a quote

  • ✓Vehicle details (registration or make/model)
  • ✓UK postcode
  • ✓Approx cover dates (start + end date)
  • ✓How you'll use the car (social / commuting)

Who This Page Is For

This page is for UK drivers who may need short-term cover, for example:

  • borrowing a car for a day (see our guide on temporary cover options)
  • driving a new vehicle home
  • temporary use while your main car is unavailable (including taxi and hire-and-reward drivers who may need cover for a replacement vehicle)
  • occasional driving where annual cover isn't suitable

If you're unsure what duration options are available, comparing is often the fastest way to check. For slightly longer needs, explore car insurance for one week.

How "Day Insurance" Typically Works

"Day insurance" usually refers to short-term car insurance for a limited period. Depending on the provider, you may see options such as:

  • cover for 1 day (where available)
  • cover for a few days
  • cover for a week or longer

The exact durations and eligibility vary by provider. Always check terms carefully. For longer durations, see our temporary car insurance page.

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What Affects Eligibility and Pricing?

Short-term cover can depend on:

Driver Profile

Your age and how long you've held a licence.

Driving History

Claims, points, and convictions on your record.

Vehicle Details

Insurance group, value, and performance of the car. Find your car's insurance group before you quote.

Location & Usage

Where the vehicle is kept and how it will be used.

Different providers have different criteria, so outcomes can vary. If you need annual cover instead, learn how to compare cheap car insurance deals.

What to Check Before You Buy Short-Term Cover

1. Make sure the dates/times match when you need cover

2. Check the cover level and key exclusions

3. Confirm who is insured to drive (named driver vs policyholder)

4. Review excess amounts and what's included

5. Enter all details accurately, incorrect info can cause issues later

FAQs: Day Insurance (UK)

Can I get car insurance for one day?
Some providers may offer 1-day cover, but availability depends on your details and the vehicle. Comparing options is the quickest way to check.
Is day insurance the same as temporary car insurance?
Day insurance is a type of temporary cover. Temporary policies can also cover longer periods such as a week or a month, depending on provider options.
Can I get day cover to borrow someone else's car?
In some cases, yes, but it depends on eligibility and vehicle details. Always make sure the cover is valid for your specific use.
Do I need to be the car's owner?
Not always, but requirements vary by provider. Check the quote journey carefully.
What information do I need to compare?
Typically vehicle details, postcode, your driving history, and the dates you need cover.
Is short-term cover always cheaper than annual insurance?
Not necessarily. It depends on the duration, driver profile, and provider. Always compare total cost and cover level.
Can I use day insurance for commuting?
Some providers may allow commuting, others may not. Always select the correct usage type when quoting.
What's the fastest way to check options?
Start a quote journey with accurate details and review the duration and cover breakdown.

Ready to Compare Day Insurance Options?

Start your quote online now and review options available from UK providers.

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How We Created This Page (Transparency)

This page was created to help UK drivers understand day insurance and what to check when comparing short-term cover options. It is reviewed for clarity and updated as needed to stay accurate and useful.

Important Information

MySupermarketCompare is an insurance comparison website. We introduce customers to our quote partner to help them compare insurance options. Information on this page is general and is not financial advice. MySupermarketCompare.com is an Introducer Appointed Representative (IAR) of Seopa Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA FRN 313860). The insurance comparison service is provided by Seopa Ltd. Always read policy terms and conditions before purchasing. Individual outcomes and premiums vary based on personal circumstances.

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