Travel insurance: what to know before you go
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General information only. This site is not an insurance intermediary and gives no personalised advice. Always read a policy’s terms before buying and, if in doubt, contact the insurer directly.
What travel insurance can cover
- Cancellation: reimbursement of costs if you have to cancel for a reason covered by the policy;
- Assistance and repatriation;
- Medical expenses abroad, up to a limit;
- Baggage: loss, theft or delay, often with low limits;
- Personal liability abroad.
Before buying: check what you already have
- your bank card’s insurance document;
- your health insurance;
- your home insurance (sometimes includes liability abroad);
- if you are insured in the EU and travel in Europe: the European Health Insurance Card.
Questions to ask when reading a policy
- What are the limits and excess?
- What are the exclusions (pre-existing conditions, sports, countries…)?
- Which cancellation reasons are accepted?
- How do you make a claim, within what time, with which documents?
- Is assistance available 24/7?
Frequently asked questions
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Not for everyone. It can be required in some cases, for example for certain Schengen visa applications, which require medical cover with a minimum amount. Check the official requirements that apply to you. [TO CHECK]
Does my bank card already cover me?
Some bank cards include assistance or cancellation cover, often provided you paid for the trip with the card. Limits and exclusions vary a lot: ask your bank for the policy document.
What is the European Health Insurance Card?
For people insured in an EU country (and a few other European countries), it gives access to medically necessary care in the public system of another European country, on local terms. It doesn't cover everything (for example repatriation) and doesn't apply outside Europe.