Travel Insurance for Europe (2026): What It Covers, When You Need It, and How to Choose

Generally no for EU citizens traveling without a visa. However, if you need a Schengen visa, travel medical insurance meeting minimum requirements (including medical assistance and repatriation with at least EUR 30,000 coverage) is mandatory.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) only provides access to public healthcare under the same conditions as locals. It does not cover medical repatriation, mountain rescue, private healthcare (common in tourist areas), trip cancellation, lost baggage, or flight delays.

It depends on the policy's geographic scope. 'Europe' policies typically cover EU and Schengen countries, but may exclude the UK (post-Brexit), Switzerland, Turkey, or Balkan nations. Always verify the specific countries included in your policy.

Schengen visa applications require travel insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 medical coverage, including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. The policy must be valid for all Schengen states and cover the entire duration of your stay.

No, skiing and winter sports are typically excluded from basic travel policies. You need a specific sports or winter sports extension. This is crucial as ski slope rescue and evacuation can cost EUR 10,000 or more without coverage.

In EU countries, you can use EHIC for public healthcare access, but still need insurance for repatriation and other coverage. In non-EU countries like Switzerland, UK, or Turkey, you have no reciprocal healthcare access and rely entirely on your travel insurance.

First, call your insurance's 24/7 assistance line if possible. They can direct you to approved facilities and authorize treatment. Keep all documentation: medical reports, diagnoses, prescriptions, and payment receipts. This documentation is essential for claim processing.

Most standard policies exclude pre-existing conditions. However, some insurers offer coverage with additional premium or waiting periods. If you have a chronic condition, declare it when purchasing and ask about specific coverage options.

If you travel to Europe more than 2-3 times per year, annual multi-trip insurance is usually more cost-effective. Check the per-trip duration limit (commonly 30, 45, 60, or 90 days) and ensure it covers all your planned destinations.

EU Regulation 261/2004 provides compensation for EU flight delays over 3 hours or cancellations. Travel insurance adds coverage for additional expenses like hotels and meals, missed connections, and situations where EU regulations don't apply (like non-EU carriers).

No, a single policy covering 'Europe' or 'Schengen' works for multi-country road trips. Ensure the geographic scope includes all your destinations, particularly if crossing into non-EU territories. Also verify your car rental insurance is separate from travel insurance.

Purchase as soon as you book your trip. This is especially important if you want cancellation coverage, as many policies require purchase within a specific window after booking. Buying early also ensures you're covered if you need to cancel before departure.