One of the questions we get asked most often by travellers is whether they need to purchase insurance for their trip when travelling on an ETIAS, Schengen or as an EU citizen. When it comes to travel insurance for Europe, the answer isn't always clear cut. In this article, we'll explore some factors to consider when making your decision.
Is travel insurance required when visiting Europe?
When visiting Europe, travel insurance may be required depending on what passport you are using to enter a Schengen country.
ETIAS travellers
For travellers who can enter the EU visa-free on an ETIAS, travel insurance is recommended as it can provide great benefits and protection. However, travel insurance is not required when travelling on an ETIAS. Not only does travel insurance cover emergency medical expenses and evacuation, but it also covers you for trip cancellation, lost or damaged baggage and flight delays. Additionally, it can cover any pre-paid or non-refundable expenses if your trip has to be cancelled due to unexpected circumstances such as a natural disaster, sickness or death of a family member back home. Although British citizens have a level care provided with the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), they are still advised by the UK government to obtain private travel insurance.
Schengen Visa travellers
Schengen Visa applicants and holders are required to be in possession of travel insurance throughout their planned stay in Europe and before obtaining a Schengen Visa. The basic requirements are that the policy should provide full medical coverage of at least 30,000 to the applicant, or policyholder, as well as provide full coverage for the evacuation or repatriation for medical reasons. There are a number of private insurers such as AXA and Allianz that offer such policies and higher coverage limits.
EU Citizens
Travel insurance for EU citizens is not required as a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should cover a variety of medical costs incurred for emergencies or care within other European countries. However, private insurance plans may also be beneficial for travellers wanting extensive coverage.
Why you should get travel insurance for Europe even if it's not required
When planning a trip to Europe, it is important to consider the potential risks and costs associated with travel. Fortunately, citizens of EU countries are eligible for a European Health Insurance Card, and British citizens are eligible for a UK Global Health Insurance Card. However, other travellers entering a Schengen Country may be required to obtain travel insurance. For example, travellers that enter EU countries visa-free via ETIAS, such as Americans or Canadians, are advised to have medical coverage for or travel insurance for Europe. Schengen Visa holders are required to obtain travel insurance as part of their visa application.
A good European policy covers medical expenses and provides protection in case of unexpected delays or cancellations as well as lost or stolen luggage. Travelers can also benefit from other services such as 24-hour worldwide assistance and airport transfers. By having a comprehensive policy in place, travellers are assured of peace of mind and could save considerable money in the long run. Considering the importance of securing adequate insurance for an international trip, getting travel insurance for Europe should be considered essential.
How to find the right travel insurance policy for you
Finding the right travel insurance policy for your next trip doesn't have to be a difficult task. Careful research and thoughtful consideration of different options can help you arrive at policies that meet your needs and budget. Since every traveller’s needs are unique, it's important to review the details before selecting a plan. Make sure to take into account limits on medical coverage and lost or damaged luggage and items in relation to your exact travel plans. Be conscious of any pre-existing conditions you may have and if the policy allows for them to be covered as well. Understand how cancellations work before committing to a particular plan and don’t forget any special encounters you may partake in during your trip as some policies won't cover these types of activities, such as skiing or scuba diving.
What to do if you have an accident or emergency while in Europe
When travelling in Europe, it is important to take the necessary precautions. If an emergency or accident occurs, act quickly to ensure everyone involved gets the help they need. Know who to call for emergency services in the country you are visiting as you may not be familiar with their emergency protocol. For example, in France and Germany dial 112, while in Spain call 112 for medical emergencies or 092 for any other types of emergencies. Additionally, always carry your contact information on you so medical personnel can easily access relevant medical records or contact a family member if needed. Lastly, make sure you have access to travel insurance information so that all expenses incurred from the emergency can be reimbursed when needed.
Tips for filing a travel insurance claim
Traveling is a wonderful experience, but unexpected issues can crop up and put an unpleasant damper on your trip. One way to be prepared for these eventualities is by having valid travel insurance. However, if you encounter an issue that requires filing a claim, it can become difficult to navigate the process successfully. Fortunately, there are several tips that can make the filing of a travel insurance claim easier. First, make sure to gather all the needed documents related to your claim. This includes a copy of your policy and receipts for any charges incurred that you would like reimbursed. Also, keep records of key dates in case there is any dispute about when the incident occurred or when you filed your claim. Finally, be patient: claims can sometimes take weeks or months to process due to paperwork or investigation delays. For this reason, it is important to note the contact details for an administrator who will deal with your file directly so any issues can be resolved promptly. Following these tips should help you navigate the insurance process effortlessly and ensure that even if something does go wrong during your travels, you will be as prepared as possible and on track for reimbursement as quickly as possible.
FAQs about travel insurance for Europe
There are a number of factors to consider when researching the best policy for your Europe trip, such as how long you’re travelling for, if there are any pre-existing conditions which need coverage, and what types of activities will be undertaken while abroad. Knowing the answers to these questions ahead of time can help inform the type of insurance that is both necessary and beneficial in order to have peace-of-mind while exploring all that Europe has to offer.
For many people, travel insurance is a necessary part of planning a trip. But with so many different policies and providers out there, it can be difficult to know what you need or where to start. That's why we've put together this list of FAQs about travel insurance for Europe to help make the process a little easier. Th
What kind of travel insurance do I need for my trip to Europe?
Taking out sufficient travel insurance is essential in case something unexpected happens while you’re away, giving you peace of mind that any extra financial costs can be covered. Coverage typically includes items such as medical care, trip cancellations or delays, personal belongings and luggage, as well as liability coverage in the event you injure someone or damage someone else’s property. Depending on the length and type of your trip to Europe, medical history, and age you may want to consider investing in additional coverage if and when needed.
How much does travel insurance for Europe cost?
Depending on the type of policy, costs can significantly vary. For example, the cost of travel insurance for Europe can range from as little as $10 per month up to several hundred dollars per trip. The level of coverage you choose depends on your budget and specific needs. There are add-ons for seasonal sports or other activities, as well as coverage add-ons for remote island destinations. It's also wise to take advantage of comparison websites that will provide you with quotes from multiple companies so you can select the plan that suits your needs best.
How can I get the best deal on travel insurance for Europe?
To get a good deal, you should first understand the most basic cover you need. Do you want just medical cover or losses that may result from cancelled bookings? After realising the essential cover requirements, you can start to compare insurers so you can get an idea of the coverage and cost associated with different policies. Also consider discounts offered by loyalty programs, credit cards and other groups you may be a part of. Chatting online or by phone to an insurance expert can also help ensure that all your needs are taken into account when considering the best deal. Remember to read the fine print and buy early, so you have ample time to review the policy before embarking on your trip.
What should I look for in a travel insurance policy for Europe?
Consider looking at policies that will offer coverage for medical and hospital costs as well as any emergency evacuation or necessary repatriation. You should also consider if your policy covers cancellations on your flight, hotel reservations, and other pre-paid activities due to unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, check the adventure and leisure activities that are covered in the policy. Make sure to review all exclusions in detail so there are no surprises during your travels abroad. That way, you can ensure that you have the right travel insurance policy in place and be prepared for any eventuality.
What are some common exclusions in travel insurance policies for Europe?
When considering travel insurance for a European trip, it is important to understand what are the common exclusions of the policy. In general, policies may exclude coverage for any losses related to pre-existing medical conditions, any hazardous activities such as skiing or other sporting activities, alcohol-related losses, cancellations due to government advice or travel warnings, and costs incurred due to loss of income while travelling. It's essential that you familiarize yourself with the particular insurer's policy provisions before purchasing a travel insurance plan. That way, you'll be able to make an informed decision about selecting the right coverage for your unique needs and expectations.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is an important consideration for any trip, but it is especially important when travelling to Europe. Travel insurance may also be required depending on your country of citizenship and if you’re travelling on a Schengen Visa or ETIAS. There are a few considerations when shopping for travel insurance for Europe, including what kind of coverage you need and how much it will cost. You should also be aware of common exclusions in policies so that you can get the best possible coverage for your trip.