EU Travel Insurance:What You Need to Know

Travel insurance might not be the most exciting part of planning your European adventure, but it could be the most important. Let’s break down what you need to know about travel insurance when exploring EU countries—without the confusing jargon.

Why Travel Insurance in Europe Matters

If you’ve ever had a flight canceled in Paris, lost luggage in Barcelona, or needed unexpected medical care in Rome, you know firsthand how quickly your dream vacation can become complicated. Travel insurance can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major financial disaster.

For non-EU visitors, healthcare in Europe isn’t free. A simple hospital visit could cost thousands, while emergency medical evacuation might run into tens of thousands of euros.

The EHIC/GHIC Card Explained

EU citizens have a built-in advantage with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its post-Brexit replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for UK residents. These cards give you access to state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in other EU countries, often at reduced or zero cost.

But here’s what many travelers miss: these cards don’t cover everything. Private healthcare, mountain rescues, or repatriation costs aren’t included. That’s where comprehensive travel insurance comes in.

What Your EU Travel Insurance Should Cover

When shopping for insurance for your European trip, look for policies that include:

• Medical expenses (at least €30,000 coverage, but ideally unlimited)
• Emergency repatriation
• Trip cancellation/interruption
• Lost or stolen belongings
• Flight delays and cancellations
• Personal liability coverage

Some countries like France and Spain now actually require proof of travel insurance with medical coverage for non-EU visitors.

Schengen Visa Requirements

Planning to visit multiple EU countries? If you need a Schengen visa, you’ll need insurance that:

• Covers the entire Schengen Area
• Provides minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies
• Includes repatriation coverage
• Is valid for your entire stay

The COVID Factor

Post-pandemic travel still has unique considerations. While many COVID-specific restrictions have been lifted, look for policies that cover:

• Medical treatment if you contract COVID-19 abroad
• Trip cancellation due to COVID-19 diagnosis before departure
• Extended accommodation costs if you need to quarantine

Winter Sports and Adventure Activities

Hitting the Alps for skiing or planning some adventure sports? Standard policies often exclude these activities, so check if you need additional coverage for:

• Winter sports (skiing, snowboarding)
• Adventure activities (hiking, climbing, water sports)
• Equipment rental coverage
• Mountain rescue services

Money-Saving Tips That Don’t Sacrifice Coverage

• Annual multi-trip policies can be more economical than single-trip if you travel frequently
• Family policies often cost less than individual ones
• Compare aggregator websites but always check the policy details directly
• Book insurance when you book your trip—not last minute—for maximum cancellation protection

The Fine Print: What’s Often Excluded

Be aware that most policies won’t cover:

• Pre-existing medical conditions (unless declared and accepted)
• Incidents while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Travel to regions with government travel warnings
• Claims resulting from reckless behavior

Making a Claim: The Process

If something goes wrong during your trip:

1. Contact your insurer’s emergency assistance line immediately
2. Document everything—keep medical reports, police reports, receipts
3. Take photos of damaged items or situations when possible
4. File your claim as soon as possible after returning home

Digital Insurance Cards and Apps

Many insurers now offer apps that include:

• Digital insurance cards
• Emergency contact numbers
• Claim filing features
• Local hospital locators
• Translation services for medical terms

Being prepared with the right travel insurance means you can focus on enjoying your European adventure, knowing you’re protected if things don’t go according to plan. Because sometimes the best souvenir is the peace of mind that comes from a trip where nothing went wrong—or if it did, you were covered.

This article was last updated May 2025. Always check with official government sources for the most current regulations as travel requirements are subject to change.