Travel insurance is more than just medical care abroad. Here is what it covers and which things travellers most often overlook.
What travel insurance covers
- Medical expenses in case of illness or injury abroad, including emergency care and repatriation.
- Loss, delay or damage to baggage.
- Flight delay or cancellation and related expenses.
- Civil liability - if during the trip you cause harm to a third party.
Why the EHIC is not enough
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) only covers public medical services in EU countries to the same extent as for local residents - often with patient co-payments. It does not cover repatriation, private clinics or medical transport home, which can cost thousands of euros.
Tip: if you plan an active holiday - skiing, diving, mountain hikes - make sure the policy covers higher-risk activities. Standard cover often excludes them.
How to choose the right cover
Pay attention to the medical cover limit (at least €30,000-100,000 is recommended), the geographic zone and whether chronic conditions and sports activities are covered. For families and frequent travellers, an annual policy is often better value than a separate policy for each trip.