
If you're looking for a reliable car insurance provider, Hastings Insurance is definitely worth considering.
Hastings Insurance offers a range of car insurance policies to suit different budgets and needs.
You can choose from comprehensive, third-party, and third-party fire and theft policies, each with its own set of benefits and price points.
Comprehensive policies, for example, provide the highest level of cover, including damage to your vehicle and third-party liability, but they're also the most expensive option.
Policy Details
Hastings Direct offers a range of car insurance policies, including Essential, Direct, Premier, YouDrive, Online, and MultiCar. These policies cater to different needs and budgets, with prices depending on factors like age, location, and vehicle.
You can choose from two levels of cover: third party, fire and theft, and fully comprehensive. The latter is the highest level of coverage available, but it's not always the most expensive option.
The different policy types offer various features, such as windscreen cover, driving other cars cover, and uninsured driver cover, which are available with fully comprehensive policies.
Policy Details
Hastings Direct offers a range of car insurance policies, including Hastings Essential, Hastings Direct, Hastings Premier, Hastings YouDrive, Hastings Online, and Hastings MultiCar.
Each policy type has its own unique features and benefits, but it's worth noting that not all policies and types are available through the company's website, so the exact levels of cover and benefits may vary.
The Hastings Essential policy is the most basic type of cover offered and is usually the cheapest option, but the actual price you pay will depend on various factors, including your age, location, and the car you drive.
You can choose from six different policy types, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here's a brief overview of each policy type:
The company offers two different levels of cover for their car insurance: third party, fire and theft, and fully comprehensive. The latter is the highest level of car insurance available, but it's not always the most expensive option, so it's worth getting a quote to see how your prices compare.
Hastings Direct also offers additional features with fully comprehensive policies, including driving other cars cover, windscreen cover, uninsured driver cover, and personal belongings cover.
Policy Details
Hastings Direct offers a range of car insurance policies, including Hastings Essential, Hastings Direct, Hastings Premier, Hastings YouDrive, Hastings Online, and Hastings MultiCar.
You can choose from six different policy types, each with varying levels of cover and benefits. The exact levels of cover and benefits may vary depending on the policy you select.
Hastings Essential is the most basic type of cover offered, typically the cheapest option, but the actual price will depend on factors like your age, location, and the car you drive.
With Hastings Direct, you get additional features like windscreen cover and driving other cars cover as standard. This level of cover is 5-star Defaqto rated.
Hastings Premier offers the most features as standard, also 5-star Defaqto rated.
Hastings YouDrive is a telematics policy that involves fitting a device in your car to track your driving behaviors and calculate a driving score. A good score could lead to lower insurance prices when you renew.

Hastings Online is a lower-cost, self-service policy that you manage yourself through their app or online account.
Hastings MultiCar lets you add up to four cars for anyone who lives with you at the same address, and you get a discount for every car you add.
Here's a summary of the main policy types:
The policy types and features may seem overwhelming, but it's essential to choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
Age Limit Definition
The age limit definition is straightforward, yet it's essential to understand it clearly. The minimum age requirement to get an insurance with Hastings Direct Car Insurance is 17 years old, which is the same as the UK's legal driving age.
This age limit is in place to ensure that drivers are mature enough to operate a vehicle safely. It's worth noting that the maximum age requirement varies depending on the type of insurance policy and coverage options chosen.

Hastings Direct determines eligibility based on a person's age, taking into account their driving history, claims history, and specific policy criteria. It's also worth mentioning that age limits affect whether certain policy features, add-ons, or savings are offered.
You can obtain precise information about the age limits and eligibility criteria by contacting Hastings Direct's customer service or visiting their official website.
Coverage and Options
Hastings insurance car offers a range of coverage options to suit different needs and budgets. You can choose from four main car insurance products: Hastings Direct, Hastings Essential, Hastings Premier, and Hastings YouDrive.
Hastings Essential is only available as comprehensive insurance, while the other policies can be purchased as third party only or third party, fire and theft. The differences between the policies are detailed below:
Hastings YouDrive is a telematics policy that measures your driving quality. You'll receive a wireless tab and an app to track your driving, and you can earn savings and tips on how to improve.
If you have multiple cars, you can take out Multi Car insurance and add up to five vehicles, receiving a guaranteed discount for each vehicle you add.
Cost and Pricing
The cost of Hastings insurance car is a key factor to consider when choosing a policy. The average monthly cost of Hastings Direct car insurance is £57, with an annual cost of £686.
However, it's essential to note that individual premiums can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the driver's age, driving record, and vehicle type. A good driving record can help qualify for lower premiums.
You can also save money on Hastings car insurance by bundling multiple policies, such as home and car insurance, under one provider. This can lead to discounts and cost savings.
Here are some estimated costs for different types of Hastings insurance car policies:
It's also worth noting that Hastings Direct offers discounts for covering multiple cars and for taking out both car and home insurance with Hastings.
Saving Money
Saving money on Hastings Direct Car Insurance is definitely possible with the right strategies. One way to start is by obtaining quotes from multiple insurance providers, including Hastings Direct, to compare coverage options and premiums.
You can also consider raising deductibles, which lowers the premiums, but ensure you can afford the higher deductible amount in case of a claim. A good driving record helps to qualify for lower premiums, so drive safely and responsibly to avoid accidents and traffic violations.
Installing certified security measures in the vehicle, such as alarms, immobilisers, or tracking systems, can limit the risk of theft or damage and qualify you for savings. Paying insurance premiums annually instead of monthly can also save you on administrative fees or interest charges.
Bundling the car insurance with other policies, such as home insurance or other vehicles, under one provider can lead to discounts and cost savings. Regularly assessing the insurance coverage to ensure it aligns with the current needs can also help you qualify for additional discounts or find that certain coverage options are no longer necessary.
Here's a quick rundown of the steps to save money on Hastings Direct Car Insurance:
- Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers
- Raise deductibles (but be sure to afford the higher amount)
- Drive safely and responsibly
- Install certified security measures
- Paying insurance premiums annually
- Bundling policies under one provider
- Regularly assess insurance coverage
- Inquire about available discounts
- Seek professional advice if needed
Average Cost

The average cost of car insurance can be a bit tricky to pin down, but we can look at some numbers to get an idea. The average cost paid for car insurance in the UK was £470 a year, according to the ABI.
Hastings Direct offers competitive pricing, with an average monthly cost of £57 and an annual cost of £686. However, it's essential to note that these numbers are averages and can vary depending on several factors, including the driver's age, driving record, vehicle type, and policy selections.
To get a personalized quote, you'll need to provide Hastings Direct with some details, such as your personal information, driving history, and vehicle information. This will help them determine the best coverage options for you.
Here's a breakdown of the factors that can affect your car insurance cost:
- Driver's age
- Driving record
- Vehicle type
- Policy selections
- Geographic area
Temporary car insurance from Hastings Direct can be as low as £10 per day, but the price varies depending on factors like the driver's age, years of driving experience, and postcode.
Claims and Helplines
If you need to make a claim with Hastings Direct car insurance, you can call their dedicated claims helpline at 0333 321 9800. You can also start your claim online or via email.
Hastings Direct offers a 24/7 claims helpline that allows policyholders to report and initiate insurance claims at any time. This helpline received a 5-star rating from Defaqto and provides instant support and assistance for claims.
To claim car insurance with Hastings Direct, you'll need to follow these steps: collect relevant details about the incident, notify Hastings Direct as soon as possible, provide necessary information about the incident and policy details, fill out a claims form, supply supporting documents, work closely with the claims representative, and follow any instructions provided by Hastings Direct.
To claim temporary car insurance with Hastings Direct, follow these steps: collect necessary information about the incident, contact Hastings Direct as soon as possible, provide thorough details about the incident, supply supporting documentation, and cooperate with their investigation.
How to Claim
To claim with Hastings Direct car insurance, you can start by calling their dedicated claims helpline at 0333 321 9800. You can also initiate the process online or via email.
The 24/7 claims helpline is a valuable resource that allows you to report and initiate insurance claims at any time, even outside of regular office hours. This helpline has received a 5-star rating from Defaqto.
To file a claim, you'll need to collect relevant details about the incident, including the date, time, location, and any supporting documentation. Notify Hastings Direct as soon as possible to report the incident and initiate the claims process.
You'll need to provide all necessary information about the incident, policy details, and personal information, including the policy number, name, contact details, and any required identification. Fill out a claims form, which will ask for specific details about the incident, damages, and any injuries involved.
To support your claim, you may need to supply other papers such as repair estimates, medical records, or witness statements. Be thorough and accurate when completing the form, and respond promptly to any requests from the claims representative.
Here are the steps to claim car insurance in Hastings Direct Car Insurance:
- Collect all relevant details about the incident.
- Notify Hastings Direct as soon as possible to report the incident.
- Provide all necessary information about the incident, policy details, and personal information.
- Fill out a claims form.
- Supply other papers to support the claim.
- Work closely with the claims representative.
- Follow any instructions or guidance provided by Hastings Direct.
For temporary car insurance claims, follow these steps:
- Collect necessary information about the incident or claim.
- Contact Hastings Direct Car Insurance as soon as possible to begin the claims procedure.
- Provide thorough details about the incident during the claims procedure.
- Provide supporting documentation such as police reports, repair estimates, medical records, or any other relevant paperwork.
- Hastings Direct Car Insurance will conduct an investigation into the claim.
- Stay in touch with Hastings Direct Car Insurance to track the progress of the claim.
Uninsured Driver Promise
The Uninsured Driver Promise from Hastings Direct Car Insurance is a game-changer in case of an accident caused by an uninsured driver. It ensures that you don't bear the financial burden, covering your excess and safeguarding your no-claims discount.
Hastings Direct's Uninsured Driver Promise received a 5-star rating from Defaqto, a reputable rating agency. This speaks volumes about the reliability of their promise.
To make a claim, you'll need to take immediate action after an accident with an uninsured driver. Notify Hastings Direct's claims division and provide detailed information about the incident.
The claim representative will guide you through the process and help you complete the claim. This initial exchange sets the stage for a smooth claims process.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Hastings Direct's customer reviews and ratings are a mixed bag. They performed poorly in one satisfaction survey, earning the second-lowest score (60%) when customers rated their overall experience.
Customers who took part in Finder's 2024 customer satisfaction survey, however, were positive about Hastings Direct, with 78% saying they would recommend the brand to a friend.
Hastings Direct has a remarkable 4.1-star rating on Trustpilot, based on over 122,000 customer reviews. Customers frequently compliment the company's explanations and communication skills, and praise the ease and simplicity of the insurance process.
Here's a breakdown of Hastings Direct's ratings on various platforms:
- Trustpilot: 4.1 stars (136,106 reviews)
- Which?: 61% policy score on its standard policy (21 out of 34) and 72% customer score (7 out of 15).
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Hastings Direct has a mixed bag of customer reviews and ratings. They performed poorly in a satisfaction survey, earning a 60% score overall, and a 59% score when it came to handling claims.
Their customers have given them decent ratings on various aspects of their service, such as clarity of policy (3 out of 5 stars), ease of managing their policy online (3 out of 5 stars), and dealing with complaints (3 out of 5 stars).
However, some customers have complained about the claims procedure, claims delays, or challenges in getting settlements. Despite this, Hastings Direct has a 4.1-star rating on Trustpilot, with over 122,000 customer reviews.
Customers have praised Hastings Direct for their good communication, simple and easy insurance process, and straightforward online system. Many have also mentioned that they would recommend the brand to a friend, with 78% of customers in a survey saying they would do so.
Here are some specific ratings and reviews from various sources:
It's worth noting that Hastings Direct actively encourages customers to leave feedback and reviews on their website, social media, and independent review sites. They also conduct customer satisfaction surveys to gather more in-depth feedback and identify areas for improvement.
Married Couples?
Hastings Direct Car Insurance offers vehicle insurance for married couples, understanding that their insurance needs differ from solo policyholders. They provide combined plans that allow couples to manage their insurance together, streamlining the paperwork process.
One of the main benefits of choosing Hastings Direct for married couples is the convenience they offer. Couples can take advantage of multi-car discounts by selecting a combined coverage.

Hastings Direct is aware that married couples have specific coverage needs and preferences, which is why they offer a variety of coverage choices. This allows couples to tailor their insurance to meet their unique needs.
Couples seeking a more basic level of coverage or comprehensive protection can find solutions with Hastings Direct. They provide coverage that guards against a wide range of dangers.
Insurer Information
Hastings Direct's car insurance policies are underwritten by Advantage Insurance Company Limited, which is an associated company of Hastings.
Hastings Insurance Services Limited is the insurer for Hastings Direct Car Insurance, offering high-quality insurance products and services to customers.
Hastings Insurance Services Limited is renowned for its commitment to offering reliable protection and first-rate customer service, giving customers peace of mind knowing their auto insurance policies are supported by a dependable and financially secure insurance provider.
Who Underwrites
Hastings Direct's car insurance policies are underwritten by Advantage Insurance Company Limited, an associated company of Hastings.
This means that Advantage Insurance Company Limited is responsible for providing the actual insurance coverage for Hastings Direct's car insurance policies.
Hastings Insurance Services Limited underwrites the auto insurance policies offered by Hastings Direct, thanks to their extensive industry knowledge and stable financial position.
Hastings Insurance Services Limited is a reputable insurance company that has a proven track record of offering reliable protection and first-rate customer service.
Their partnership with Hastings Direct ensures that customers enjoy the advantages of a reputable insurer with a stable financial position.
AXA Ownership
Hastings Direct Car Insurance is indeed owned by AXA, a global insurance and financial services company with a strong presence in the insurance industry.
AXA's financial strength and stability give customers of Hastings Direct a sense of security knowing their auto insurance provider is backed by a respectable and well-established firm.
Hastings Direct has access to a greater selection of insurance products and services because it's a member of the AXA group, offering customers more extensive coverage alternatives and affordable pricing.
AXA's international presence and connections with related industries further aid the competitiveness and growth possibilities of Hastings Direct.
Policy Extras
Hastings Direct offers a range of optional extras you can add to your policy to give you even more peace of mind. These extras include breakdown cover, motor legal expenses cover, enhanced personal accident cover, and key cover.
Breakdown cover is provided by the RAC and comes in four different levels, each with a different level of protection. Motor legal expenses cover helps to cover the cost of legal expenses if you need to claim after an accident-related injury.
Enhanced personal accident cover provides cover for injuries sustained in accidents, covering you and up to six passengers. Key protection insurance covers you for the replacement of your keys if they’re lost, stolen or damaged in a lock.
Here are some of the policy extras you can add to your Hastings Direct policy:
- Breakdown cover
- Motor legal expenses cover
- Enhanced personal accident cover
- Key cover
These extras can be added to your policy, but some may already be included as standard, depending on the policy you take out.
Optional Extras
Hastings Direct offers a range of optional extras to give you more peace of mind. These extras can be added to your policy for an extra cost.
Breakdown cover is one of the optional extras available. It's provided by the RAC and comes in four different levels of protection.
You can also add motor legal expenses cover to your policy. This helps cover the cost of legal expenses if you need to claim after an accident-related injury.
Enhanced personal accident cover provides cover for injuries sustained in accidents. This covers you and up to six passengers.
Key cover is another optional extra that's worth considering. It covers you for the replacement of your keys if they’re lost, stolen or damaged in a lock.
Here's a summary of the optional extras available:
- Breakdown cover
- Motor legal expenses cover
- Enhanced personal accident cover
- Key cover
Comparison and Quotes
You can compare Hastings car insurance quotes on Caura, which compares 170+ insurers to help you find the best deal.
Caura is a useful tool that can unlock £500 free excess protection when you purchase a policy.
To compare Hastings Direct car insurance policies, you can visit their website, although it's worth noting that the Essential policy is described as a "no-frills policy with basic and affordable coverage".
Comparing quotes on Caura can save you time and effort, and potentially lead to a better deal on your insurance policy.
General Information
Hastings Direct Car Insurance is a prominent insurance provider in the United Kingdom, specialising in offering extensive coverage for vehicles.
Their policies often include personal injury protection and third-party liability coverage, ensuring financial protection for both the policyholder and any third parties involved in an incident.
Hastings Direct Car Insurance provides exceptional customer service, offering 24/7 claims support to simplify the claims process and provide peace of mind.
Their emphasis on affordability sets them apart in the market and makes them an attractive option for car owners seeking cost-effective insurance solutions.
You can get in touch with Hastings Direct Car Insurance through their customer service channels, including the phone number 0333 433 9801.
Here are some key coverage options offered by Hastings Direct:
- Comprehensive coverage: protects against accidents, theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters
- Third-party fire and theft: covers damage to other people's property and vehicles
- Third-party only: covers damage to other people's property and vehicles, but not your own vehicle
Their policies often include additional benefits such as breakdown insurance, legal bill coverage, and personal accident insurance.
Hastings Direct offers a no-claims bonus to policyholders who have been claim-free for a predetermined amount of time, which can eventually help lower the cost of premiums.
You can easily manage your insurance plans online through Hastings Direct's website, where you can read policy documentation, make changes to the coverage, update personal information, and make payments.
Special Cases
If you're a young driver, you might be eligible for a Hastings Young Driver Insurance policy, which can provide a more affordable option for those with limited experience behind the wheel.
This type of policy typically requires a higher excess, but it can be a great way to get on the road and build up your no claims bonus.
Hastings also offers a Black Box Insurance policy, which uses a telematics device to track your driving habits and reward safe driving with lower premiums.
This policy is ideal for new drivers who want to demonstrate their responsible driving skills and earn a better deal on their insurance.
Disadvantages and Limitations

Hastings Direct Car Insurance has its limitations, and it's essential to be aware of them before making a decision.
Their services are primarily available in the United Kingdom, which means clients living outside this region may not be able to use their services.
Limited policy options are another drawback, with Hastings Direct's selection not being as wide as that of other insurance companies.
Pricing can also vary depending on factors such as location, driving record, and coverage type, which may result in higher costs compared to competing insurance companies.
Some customers have reported mixed experiences with customer service, citing issues with response times, claim handling, and general satisfaction with assistance provided.
It's crucial to review policy materials in their entirety to be aware of terms, conditions, and limitations that affect coverage offered.
Here are some key disadvantages to consider:
- Limited availability in the UK only
- Limited policy options compared to other insurance companies
- Pricing variations based on location, driving record, and coverage type
- Mixed customer service experiences
- Policy limitations and exclusions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I look up my car insurance?
To look up your car insurance, start by gathering your vehicle's VIN and details, then contact your insurance company to request your policy information. They will guide you through the process of accessing your insurance history and policy details.
Can I get a courtesy car if my car breaks down Hastings?
Yes, you're covered for a courtesy car if your car breaks down in Hastings, but only if it's being repaired by one of our nominated repairers. If your car is stolen or damaged beyond repair, you won't be eligible for a courtesy car.
Sources
- https://www.which.co.uk/money/insurance/car-insurance/car-insurance/hastings-direct-car-insurance-review-aMQd53b7IwK2
- https://www.finder.com/uk/car-insurance/hastings-direct-car-insurance
- https://caura.com/insurance/insurers/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hastings-direct-car-insurance
- https://www.insuredaily.co.uk/blog/car-insurance/hastings-direct
- https://www.confused.com/car-insurance/providers/hastings-direct
Featured Images: pexels.com