Three big BMC membership insurance upgrades for 2026
At the BMC, we’re always looking for ways to make membership work harder for you. Whether you're climbing indoors, heading to the hills, or travelling further afield, your cover should keep pace with your adventures.
That’s why we’ve introduced three major improvements to BMC membership regarding the insurance cover you get. They’re designed to give you more flexibility, broader protection, and greater peace of mind, wherever and however you get outside.
1. No upper age limit on Personal Accident Cover
We’re proud to say that Personal Accident cover is now available to all eligible members over the age of three, with no upper age limit. Previously, cover applied only up to the age of 80. From April 1st 2026, that upper limit has been removed entirely. This means:
Members over 80 are now fully included
Lifelong participation in the outdoors is properly supported
2. Personal Accident Cover extended to BMC club members
From 1 January 2026, BMC club members now also benefit from Personal Accident cover, including access to physiotherapy.
This upgrade recognises the reality of being active in the outdoors. Injuries can happen, whether you’re out on a mountain day, at the crag, or training indoors and with this change:
Club members are covered for accidental injuries
Physiotherapy and osteopathy support is included to aid recovery
3. Combined Liability Cover for EU-based members
From 1 April 2026, members who live in the EU (excluding Switzerland) are now covered by our Combined Liability Insurance worldwide.
This is a significant step forward. Previously, liability cover was more limited for members based in the UK. Now, if you're based in the EU and a BMC member, you benefit from the same global protection as UK-based members.
In practical terms, that means:
You’re covered for third-party liability anywhere in the world
Your membership supports you wherever your adventures take you
Built for the mountains
These changes reflect what we hear from our members. You want benefits that are ready for your adventures and we want to support BMC members with the right cover.
If you have any questions about what’s included in your membership, or how these changes affect you, all the details regarding your membership cover are found in the Howdens BMC Insurance centre or you can get in touch with the team office@thebmc.co.uk