Are you planning your next vacation? Whether you’re going abroad or staying local, it’s essential to make sure you have the correct travel insurance. While some may think that relying on the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is enough, this may not be true in all countries. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of travel insurance and why it’s worth the investment.

The Limitations of the EHIC

The EHIC is a card showing that you’re covered by health insurance in a European Union (EU) or one of the other countries that have an agreement with the EU. While it can help get necessary medical care, it only covers medically necessary treatments and does not include assistance services. In addition, the coverage and conditions for treatments vary depending on the country.

The Importance of Travel Insurance

This is where travel insurance comes in. By getting travel insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re covered for unexpected medical expenses and assistance services. While the cost of travel insurance may seem unnecessary, it’s essential to consider the potential costs of not having it. For example, a single day of hospitalization in a foreign country could cost you thousands of dollars.

What Travel Insurance Covers

Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage loss or delay. Some insurance policies also offer coverage for adventure activities such as skiing or scuba diving. It’s essential to read the policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.

The Benefits of Assistance Services

Aside from coverage for medical expenses, travel insurance also offers assistance services. This can include emergency medical transportation, medical referrals, translation services, and more. In an emergency, you can contact the assistance services hotline for help.

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance

When choosing travel insurance, you must consider your needs and the type of trip you’re taking. Some policies may be more suitable for adventure trips, while others may be more appropriate for leisure travel. It’s also important to read the policy carefully and understand the coverage and limitations.