Part of the same group
Travel insurance
Cover for the trip, arranged before you leave.
A hospital bill abroad can cost more than the whole holiday. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies and the things that go wrong on the way — and it has to be bought before you set off.
Reviewed
In short
- Medical emergencies abroad are the main reason to buy it.
- A Schengen visa needs medical cover of at least €30,000, valid across the Schengen area.
- Buy before departure: most policies cannot start once the trip has begun.
What it can cover
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad; trip cancellation or interruption for the reasons the policy lists; delayed or lost checked-in baggage; loss of a passport; and personal liability while you travel.
Students and senior travellers
Student policies run for the length of a course and may include study interruption and sponsor protection. Older travellers can usually buy cover, with health questions and a higher premium.
What to check
These decide whether cover is real when you claim. Read them before the premium.
Existing conditions
Often excluded or limited. Check how the policy treats any condition you have.
Sum insured
Choose cover in line with medical costs at your destination, which can be very high in some countries.
Deductibles
Many travel policies deduct a fixed amount from each claim.
Activities
Adventure sports are usually excluded unless added.
Help abroad
Note the insurer’s 24-hour assistance number before you leave.
Questions people ask
General guidance. Your policy wording decides the specifics.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
It is required for some visas, such as Schengen, and wise for any trip abroad. Check your destination’s current visa rules.
Does it cover an illness that starts on the trip?
Most policies cover illness or injury that starts during the trip, subject to their terms and exclusions.
Can the policy be extended if I stay longer?
Many insurers allow an extension if it is asked for before the policy ends and no claim has arisen. Ask before you travel.
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. Benefits depend on the policy terms and the insurer’s decision; read the policy wording before buying.