"It's only a week in Spain — do I really need travel insurance?" It's one of the most common questions UK travellers ask. The answer, unequivocally, is yes.
Europe might feel like a safe, familiar destination, but medical emergencies don't check your itinerary. A broken leg on a skiing trip, a sudden appendicitis in Portugal, or a car accident in Italy can result in bills running into tens of thousands of pounds.
The GHIC Is Not Enough
Many travellers assume their GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) has them covered. While the GHIC is a valuable free resource, it has significant gaps:
- No repatriation cover — An air ambulance home can cost £15,000–£50,000+
- No private treatment — You're limited to state healthcare, which varies hugely across Europe
- No trip cancellation, baggage, or personal liability cover
- Co-payments may apply — In some countries you'll still pay a percentage of treatment costs
Post-Brexit Changes You Should Know
Since Brexit, UK travellers are no longer EU citizens. This affects your rights in several ways:
- The GHIC replaced the EHIC — coverage is similar but not guaranteed to expand
- Some EU hospitals may not immediately recognise the GHIC, causing delays
- Visa-free stays are limited to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area
- Reciprocal healthcare agreements can change — insurance gives you certainty
What European Travel Insurance Should Cover
When comparing policies for European trips, make sure you have:
- Medical expenses — At least £2 million (£5 million+ is better)
- Repatriation — Full cover for medical evacuation back to the UK
- Cancellation cover — Typically £1,000–£5,000 depending on trip cost
- Baggage and personal belongings — £1,500+ with single-item limits
- Personal liability — £1–2 million in case you injure someone or damage property
- Legal expenses — Useful if you're in a road accident abroad
City Breaks vs Activity Holidays
Your destination and activities matter. A city break in Paris needs standard cover, but if you're:
- Skiing in the Alps — you need winter sports cover
- Hiring a car — check your motor excess policy
- Doing water sports — ensure "hazardous activities" are included
- Travelling with expensive electronics — check single-item limits on baggage cover
How Much Does European Travel Insurance Cost?
For a healthy adult under 65, a week-long European trip typically costs between £8–£25 for a comprehensive policy. That's less than a single airport coffee run. For the level of protection it provides, it's one of the best-value purchases you'll make for any trip.
If you travel to Europe regularly, an annual multi-trip policy usually works out cheaper — often £40–£80 for the year.
The Bottom Line
Europe may feel close and familiar, but the financial risks of travelling without insurance are very real. Your GHIC is a helpful extra — not a replacement for proper cover. For the price of a couple of coffees, comprehensive travel insurance gives you peace of mind that no card or assumption can match.