Compare travel insurance for Europe

Customers with more serious pre-existing medical conditions

If you have a serious health condition, the price you pay for travel insurance is likely to be more expensive. However, there are still many providers out there and you should be able to find affordable cover. Whatever happens, don’t be tempted to lie to an insurance provider, because if you do and then need to make a claim, it could be rejected.

When you declare medical conditions on our website, we’ll only show quotes from insurance providers who will cover all declared medical conditions, with no exclusions. 

MoneyHelper has launched a directory of insurance providers who may be able to provide quotes over the phone if you have more serious medical conditions. Find more information at MoneyHelper or by calling them on 0800 138 7777.

Do I need travel insurance for Europe if I have a GHIC card?

Yes, you do. A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare in EU countries and Switzerland on the same terms as a local resident for free or at a reduced cost.

Let’s be clear about this though – a GHIC will only cover you for necessary medical treatment. It won’t cover:

• Treatment if you’re taken to a private hospital in the event of an emergency
• Mountain rescue costs if you’re injured while skiing or snowboarding
• Repatriation costs if you need to be flown home
• Cruise holidays.

Lots of travellers don’t realise that even in Europe, medical costs can still hit the roof if you’re not properly insured. For example, if you fall and break your leg in Spain, you’ll need hospital treatment and flights home – and that can add up to around £15,000.

So while it makes sense to have a GHIC if you’re travelling in Europe, travel insurance will give you more comprehensive cover should the worst happen.

The GHIC replaces the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). While you can no longer apply for an EHIC, if you already have one that was issued before the end of 2020, it will be valid until the expiry date.

You can apply for a GHIC card here and it should arrive within 10 days. Make sure you apply via the NHS website for your free card to avoid potential scam sites that may try to charge you.

Did you know?

The GHIC only covers you for necessary medical treatment in EU countries and Switzerland. There are different rules and requirements for UK nationals visiting Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.

You’ll find full details about how the GHIC works and what it covers at GOV.UK.

What isn’t covered by European travel insurance?

Always check the small print for any exclusions that might affect your claim. Travel insurance providers won’t typically cover:

• Drunken mishaps – any accidents or injuries that happen while you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Theft of belongings that were left unattended – including leaving your phone and beach bag on your lounger while you cool off in the pool.
• Undeclared medical conditions – you must tell your insurance provider about any health conditions that could affect your cover. If you don’t, your policy could be invalidated.
• Acts of terrorism – check your policy carefully, as you may not be covered for any claims as the result of a terrorist event, although you should be able to receive emergency medical treatment in the immediate aftermath of a terrorist attack.
• Natural disasters – volcanic activity is a real risk in Italy as it has three active volcanos. Turkey, Greece, Albania, Italy, and Romania having highest earthquake hazard in Europe, followed by the other Balkan countries, according to European Facilities for Earthquake Hazard and Risk. But natural disasters are not always covered under standard travel insurance policies. If you’re travelling to a destination with high risk of natural catastrophes, check your policy carefully or look for specialist insurance to make sure you’re fully covered.

Can I get multi-trip or annual cover for travel in Europe?

Yes. If you travel regularly, an annual travel insurance policy could save you money and hassle. As long as you find a policy that will cover you for all your destinations, you won’t need to arrange a new policy each time you go away. An annual multi trip policy to Europe could cost as little as £11***. Or, if you’re planning regular trips further afield, you can get worldwide cover for countries outside of Europe.

***Based on Compare the Market Data for an annual multi trip travel insurance policy for a 20-year-old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling in Europe. Prices correct as of April 2022.

Any other tips for travelling to Europe?

Every European country has its own language, cuisine, culture, and traditions, so it’s a good idea to understand the local customs and rules before you fly. Here’s a few things to think about when visiting Europe:

• Currency – while the euro is the official and widely accepted currency of most European countries, some have their own currencies. Those outside of the Eurozone include Denmark, Sweden, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland and Switzerland.
• Tipping – tipping culture varies from country-to-country. Make sure you check online, or with your hotel reception to make sure you’re not leaving too much or too little.
• Mobile roaming – free mobile roaming is no longer guaranteed in Europe. Check with your provider to see what roaming charges may apply for texting, making calls and using mobile phone data in Europe.