With its contrasting cultures, history, stunning landscapes and easy accessibility, it's no wonder that Europe is the largest travel destination for UK holidaymakers.
But even though you're relatively close to home, it's still important to have the right travel insurance in place before you go.
Being so close to home, you may not think travel insurance is as important for Europe as it is for long haul destinations.
But even on the most sedate holidays, things can go wrong. Flights can get cancelled, luggage gets lost and phones and tablets get stolen. And no one wants to think about being injured or falling ill on holiday. But accidents can happen, wherever you are.
Travel insurance could give you the reassurance and peace of mind that if something does go wrong, you're covered.
Ideally, you should have both. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is indispensable should you need emergency medical treatment when visiting an EU country or Switzerland.
UK residents can use an EHIC card during the Brexit negotiations and until the UK leaves the EU. The EHIC gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare across Europe on the same terms as a local resident, which means at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. This includes treatment of a pre-existing medical condition and routine maternity care. The UK Government has proposed a similar scheme to the EHIC in the event that the UK leaves the EU without a deal. However, this is subject to EU countries agreeing to that proposal.
The EHIC will only cover you for necessary medical treatment:
• treatment if you're taken to a private hospital in the event of an emergency
• mountain rescue costs if you're injured while skiing
• repatriation costs if you need to be flown home
• cruise holidays
And even though you're in Europe, medical costs can still hit the roof if you're not properly insured. Claims for skiing accidents can reach as high as £90,000, and an air ambulance can add further £10,000 to the bill.
So, while it makes sense to get a free EHIC card for travelling in Europe, travel insurance could give you the extra protection you need, and more comprehensive cover should the worst happen.
• Medical coverage – check your policy carefully as the level of cover in standard polices tends to differ between different insurance providers, depending on your circumstances and intended activities. If you're pregnant, have a pre-existing medical condition, or want specific sports cover, it may be worth asking your insurance provider about extra cover or seeking out specialist travel insurance to ensure you're properly covered
• Belongings – check to see if your policy covers loss, theft or damage of your luggage. Ensure the level is high enough to cover the cost of valuables such as your phone or laptop
• Travel issues – cancelled flights, missed flights and delays. Check the conditions carefully as only valid reasons set by the insurance provider are covered
• Personal liability – cover in case you injure someone else and they sue you for damages
Europe has some amazing destinations to explore. For peace of mind on your trip we can help you compare quotes and find the right travel insurance to cover all of your needs on your European holiday.
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