How to get the best European travel insurance in 2024?
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Whether it's for a river cruise, a bike-trip or any other form of travelling, going on a holiday to Europe is a dream for many Canadians. But, along with the excitement of exploring new cultures and landscapes, it's crucial to prioritize safety and preparedness during your journey.
Having a good European travel insurance can act as a safety net, providing peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen events that may occur during your travel.
But who does European travel insurance work? What do the plans cover, pros and cons? How do you get a travel insurance for Europe? Find all this information in our complete guide.
5 Key Takeaways on European Travel Insurance
- European travel insurance serves as a safety net in case of expensive emergencies abroad.
- It covers medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and more.
- Finding cheaper European travel insurances, research and compare quotes from several providers.
- Travel insurance for individuals over 70 may have limitations.
- European travel insurance varies in coverage and premium from one person to another.
Is it possible to get cheap European travel insurance?
European travel insurance is often available for single trips or as an annual multi-trip policy, which covers multiple trips taken within a specified period. In either case, premiums can be quite expensive. Finding cheap European travel insurance requires some research and comparison among different insurance providers.
While the cost of travel insurance can vary depending on several factors, including your age, trip duration, destination, and coverage limits, here are some options and tips to find more affordable travel insurance and reduce the overall cost:
- Use online insurance comparison websites to compare multiple travel insurance plans from different providers.
- Opt for basic or essential travel insurance plans that cover essential needs such as medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
- Consider choosing a policy with a higher deductible (the amount you agree to pay before the insurance coverage kicks in).
- If you are only planning one trip to Europe, opt for a single-trip policy instead of an annual multi-trip policy.
- Look for options that cater to your specific age range to potentially find more affordable rates.
- Review the optional add-ons or extra benefits offered by the insurance companies and exclude any that you don't need.
- Consider using travel insurance aggregators or specialized travel insurance websites that may offer exclusive deals.
- If you're travelling with family or friends, inquire about group travel insurance policies.
- Buy your travel insurance early, as some insurers may offer lower rates for policies purchased well in advance of the trip.
To find a good travel insurance you could simply use HelloSafe's comparator that lets you compare prices, coverage, and even get personalised quotes from the best travel insurances:
Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!
What is the best European travel insurance?
To find the best medical insurance for European travels, the best practice is to compare offers online and request several quotes. That being said, here are a few travel insurance companies known for their qualitative European plans:
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Axa European travel insurance: Excellent customer service
AXA Travel Insurance is a well-known and respected company that offers a wide range of coverage options. It is one of the most popular travel insurance providers in the world, and it has a good reputation for customer service.
- AXA offers comprehensive coverage options and excellent customer service.
- As an established and reputable company, AXA provides various insurance plans tailored to meet the specific needs of European travelers.
Whether you are exploring the iconic cities of Europe or embarking on an off-the-beaten-path adventure, AXA's travel insurance policies can provide you with the necessary protection and assistance, ensuring a worry-free journey.
World Nomads: A travel insurance for adventurers
World Nomads's travel insurance is specialized in comprehensive coverages for travellers who enjoy adventure travel. It is a good option for travellers who are going to be hiking, biking or doing other activities that could put them at risk of injury.
- World Nomads caters to travelers who engage in activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, and other adventurous pursuits.
- With a focus on covering adrenaline-pumping activities, World Nomads ensures that you can explore Europe's rugged landscapes with confidence, knowing you have reliable coverage in case of mishaps or emergencies.
Allianz Travel Insurance: Widest coverage for European travels
Allianz Travel Insurance is a subsidiary of the Allianz Group, one of the largest insurance companies in the world. It offers a wide range of coverage options, and it has a good reputation for customer service. Whether you are embarking on a solo backpacking adventure, a family vacation, or a business trip, Allianz has policies that can be customized to suit your specific requirements.
- Allianz Travel Insurance offers a wide array of coverage options, making it a popular choice for European travel.
- It has a global presence and extensive network, providing you with a sense of security, no matter where your European journey takes you.
Desjardins: Affordable European travel insurance
Desjardins Travel Insurance is a Canadian insurance company that offers travel insurance for both domestic and international travel. It is a good option for Canadian travellers who are looking for a reliable and affordable policy.
- Desjardins Travel Insurance offers reliable and affordable coverage.
- As a trusted Canadian insurance company, Desjardins offers policies tailored to both domestic and international travel.
You can choose from various coverage levels and add-ons and explore Europe with confidence, knowing that you have the support and protection you need throughout your journey.
Is European travel insurance avaiable for people over 70 years of age?
Travel insurance for individuals over 70 can be more challenging to find, as medical conditions and potential issues may arise more frequently.
As a result, some insurance providers may have age restrictions or offer limited coverage for older travellers.
That being said, t is possible to find a European travel insurance for travellers above the age of 70. Look for insurance companies that specialise in providing coverage for older travellers. These companies are more likely to offer policies tailored to the needs of seniors.
Watch out!
Do expect more expensive premium on European travel insurance for seniors.
What does European travel insurance cover?
Whether it's a short vacation or an extended stay, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection while exploring the diverse and beautiful destinations in Europe. Here are some key features and benefits of European travel insurance:
- Medical coverage: This includes expenses related to medical treatment, hospitalization and emergency medical evacuation in the event of illness or injury during the trip. Some European health travel insurance may cover Covid-related expenses, some others may not. Be sure to check their offer thoroughly.
- Trip cancellation/interruption: If your travel plans need to be cancelled or cut short due to unforeseen reasons such as illness, family emergencies or certain unexpected events, this coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses.
- Baggage and personal belongings: It provides coverage for lost, stolen or damaged luggage and personal items while travelling.
- Travel delay: If your travel is delayed for reasons beyond your control (e.g., flight cancellations, severe weather), this coverage can help cover additional expenses incurred during the delay, such as accommodation and meals.
- Personal liability: This coverage protects you if you accidentally cause injury to someone else or damage their property during your trip.
- Legal assistance: Offers access to legal advice and assistance if you encounter legal issues while travelling in Europe.
- 24/7 emergency assistance: Many travel insurance policies provide a helpline that you can call for immediate assistance in case of emergencies during your trip.
Some European travel insurances might provide car coverage in case of emergency, although we do recommend to buy insurance with the rental company. Also, some credit cards offer travel insurance as a perk when you use them to book your trip. Check if your credit card provides any coverage and understand the terms and limitations.
Does European travel insurance cover Russia and Turkey?
- Russia is a vast country spanning both Europe and Asia, with the majority of its territory in the Asian part. Some European travel insurance policies may cover specific regions of Russia that are considered part of Europe, such as cities in the Western part like St. Petersburg. However, for broader coverage throughout Russia, you may need to purchase a separate travel insurance policy that includes Asian countries.
- Geographically, Turkey is a transcontinental country, with a portion of its territory located in Europe (Eastern Thrace) and the majority in Asia (Anatolia). Some European travel insurance policies may cover trips to Turkey, while others may not explicitly include it due to its Asian part. If you plan to visit Turkey, make sure to verify that it is covered under your travel insurance policy.
How much is European travel insurance?
Wondering how much can European travel insurance cost? Well, the cost of European travel insurance can vary widely depending on several factors, including:
- Your age
- Duration of the trip: you won't pay the same premium whether you go on a 3-day trip or a 2-week-trip.
- Destination countries
- Level of coverage (basic, mid-range, comprehensive)
- Pre-existing medical conditions (if any)
- Optional add-ons or upgrades
- Deductible amount (if applicable)
- The insurance provider's pricing structure and policies
On average, a basic policy for a week-long trip to Europe can cost anywhere from $20 to $55, whereas a more comprehensive policy may cost up to $106 per person.
Good to know
Since the information may change over time and different insurance providers offer various plans, it's essential to obtain quotes directly from insurance companies or use online comparison websites to get accurate and up-to-date pricing.
Get a cheap yet comprehensive European travel insurance by comparing offers online:
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Which countries are covered by European travel insurance?
European travel insurance is a type of insurance coverage designed specifically for individuals travelling to countries within the European continent (not solely travels within the European Union). It provides various benefits and protections to travellers during their trip, offering financial assistance and support in case of unexpected events or emergencies. European travel insurance is typically purchased before the trip begins and can cover a wide range of travel-related risks.
The countries covered by European travel insurance can vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy you purchase. However, in general, European travel insurance typically covers a wide range of countries within the European continent. These countries may include:
| Continent | Countries |
|---|---|
| Western Europe | France, Germany, United Kingdom (some of you wonder if Brexit had any effect on European travel insurance, know it hasn't, the UK is still very much on the list of European countries), Spain, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Luxembourg, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein and San Marino |
| Northern Europe | Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland |
| Eastern Europe | Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Belarus and Russia (specific regions may be covered, e.g., western parts) |
| Southern Europe | Greece, Cyprus and Malta |
| Baltic States | Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania |
| Transcaucasian States | Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan |
4 tips for choosing the best European travel insurance
When choosing a European travel insurance provider, it is important to compare policies and coverage options to find the best plan for your needs. Some factors to consider include the following:
- The type of coverage you need: This includes medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption and lost luggage.
- The level of coverage you want: You can choose from basic to comprehensive coverage.
- The price of the policy: Travel insurance can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the coverage you choose.
- The reputation of the insurance company: Make sure to choose a company with a good reputation and track record.
