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Travel Insurance for Europe: 4 Best Options for 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Travelex Insurance Services »

Generali Global Assistance »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Insurance for Europe.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Travelex Insurance Services

You almost certainly will want travel insurance for Europe, mostly because the high cost for international trips is worth protecting against travel delays and trip cancellations. Since your U.S. medical coverage will not apply overseas, you also need international health insurance that covers surprise medical expenses and medical evacuation.

If you're searching for the best Europe travel insurance that money can buy, consider the following plans and all they have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most people need travel health insurance at a bare minimum when traveling to European destinations like France, Italy or Switzerland, as well as additional countries inside and outside of the Schengen area. After all, U.S. health insurance plans do not provide coverage for medical emergencies overseas, and the same is true for government health plans like Medicare. Check out our article on whether your health insurance covers international travel .

Other benefits built into Europe travel insurance plans can also protect the money that's been spent on airfare, hotel stays, Europe cruises and tours. For example, travelers can benefit from having coverage for trip cancellation, trip delays, lost or delayed baggage, and more.

Every travel insurance policy is unique, so you'll want to read over individual travel insurance plans to see what they protect against. That said, the bulk of travel insurance plans for trips to Europe provide the following coverages:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Travel delays
• Lost luggage reimbursement
• Baggage delay coverage
• Medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Rental car damage

Some travel insurance plans also offer additional or optional coverage for sports equipment or sports equipment delays, missed connections, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), adventure sports and more.

Some visitors to countries in the Schengen area are required to have a visa for short stays that can last for up to 90 days within a timeline of up to 180 days. However, this is not the case for American citizens, who can stay in Europe for up to 90 days at a time without meeting specific visa requirements.

The U.S. Department of State also notes that American citizens who want to stay in Europe for more than 90 days should reach out to the country they plan on visiting to inquire about their visa process.

If you live in a country that requires a Schengen visa, you are required to purchase Schengen visa insurance that pays for overseas medical expenses. This coverage must provide at least 30,000 euros in protection against medical expenses that result from hospitalization, emergency treatment and repatriation of remains in the case of accident or death.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Cost
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• WorldTrips: Best for Groups

Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) and preexisting medical conditions coverage available

Kids 17 and younger covered for free

Lower coverage amount for medical expenses than some providers

• $100,000 per traveler in coverage for trip cancellation
• $150,000 per traveler in coverage for trip interruptions
• $500 in coverage for eligible trip changes
• $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• $500,000 for emergency medical transportation
• $1,000 toward baggage loss or damage
• $300 in coverage for baggage delays of 12 hours or more
• $800 in protection for travel delays (daily limit of $200 applies)
• $100 per insured person per day in SmartBenefits coverage for eligible delays
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Optional CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverages available

Kids 17 and younger are covered for free

Many coverages cost extra

• 100% of trip cost for trip cancellation (up to $50,000)
• 150% of trip cost for trip interruption (up to $75,000)
• $2,000 in coverage for trip delays of five hours or longer
• $750 in coverage for missed connections
• $50,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses ($500 dental sublimit included)
• $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
• $1,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• $200 for baggage delays of 12 hours or longer
• $200 for sporting equipment delays of 24 hours or longer
• $25,000 for accidental death and dismemberment coverage
• 24/7 travel assistance
• 100% of the insured trip cost for financial default of a travel provider (maximum of $50,000)
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage for preexisting medical conditions (maximum of $50,000)
• Cancel for work reasons coverage
• CFAR insurance
• Car rental coverage worth up to $35,000
• $50,000 in additional emergency medical coverage
• $500,000 in additional coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
• Adventure sports exclusions waiver
• $200,000 in coverage for flight accidental death and dismemberment

CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverages available

High coverage limits for medical expenses and evacuation

CFAR coverage only reimburses at 60%

• $1,000,000 coverage limit for emergency medical evacuation and transportation
• $250,000 coverage limit for medical expenses ($500 limit for dental emergencies)
• 100% of trip cost for trip cancellation
• 175% of trip cost for trip interruption
• $1,000 per person for travel delays ($300 per person daily limit applies)
• $2,000 per person in coverage for baggage and $500 for baggage delays
• $2,000 per person in coverage for sporting equipment and $500 for sporting equipment delays
• $1,000 per person in coverage for missed connections
• Air flight accident AD&D coverage worth $100,000 per person and $200,000 per plan
• Travel accident AD&D coverage worth $50,000 per person and $100,000 per plan
• $25,000 in coverage for rental cars
• 24-hour travel support

Discounts for groups of five or more

Potential for high coverage limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellation

Available coverage limits vary by age

• $5,000 for local burial or cremation
• Up to $25,000 in AD&D coverage
• $100,000 in coverage for emergency reunions
• $10,000 in coverage for trip interruption
• $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• $100 in coverage for lost or stolen passports or visas
• $100 in coverage per day for travel delays of at least 12 hours (two days of coverage maximum)
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel writer who has created content about travel insurance, family travel, cruises, all-inclusive resorts and more for over a decade. She has visited more than 50 countries around the world and has an annual travel insurance plan of her own. Johnson also has experience navigating the claims process for travel insurance plans and has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson works with her husband, Greg, who is licensed to sell travel insurance and owns the travel agency Travel Blue Book .

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Traveling From the USA to Europe? Here Are 3 Health Insurances to Know in 2023

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Visiting Europe is an exciting and memorable trip for most American travellers, regardless of whether it's for business, to visit friends or family, or just as a tourist to see the big cities like Paris, Rome, or Vienna And while traveling to Europe can be an accessible, it's worth remembering that out-the-pocket healthcare costs are among the most expensive in the world, so it's not just a good idea, but essential, to arrive in the country with travel health insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Europe and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats alike.

Europe Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Europe:

Best Travel Insurances for Europe

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Europe? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance from the USA to Europe scroll down

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory From the USA to Europe?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when travelling to Schengen countries. If you're entering the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, you must show a valid passport and travel insurance that covers the duration of their stay and a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. Being insured is one of the necessary steps to secure a visa and enter the Schengen Area, and failure to comply may result in a denial of entry from America.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Europe or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for the EU from America:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for visitors from the USA traveling to the EU. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Europe, including coverage for emergencies, doctor's visits, and other medical-related expenses. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies, and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Europe:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another good travel insurance provider for Europe, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance from the USA with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for young people or digital nomads from the USA because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind in the EU knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term traveling

Compare For Yourself

In this post, we explored three travel insurance providers you should consider for your next trip to Europe from the USA. That being said, there are many more providers out there, some of which might make even more sense for you depending on your travel needs and preferences. To compare the top providers on the market, run a search on Monto's travel insurance comparison engine below 👇

Find travel insurance for you:

How do they compare.

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Europe? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 14/02/2023

FAQ About Travel Insurance from the USA to Europe

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when travelling to Schengen countries. If you're entering the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, you must show a valid passport and travel insurance that covers the duration of their stay and a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. Being insured is one of the necessary steps to secure a visa and enter the Schengen Area, and failure to comply may result in a denial of entry.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to visitors worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with traveling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the insured, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent tourists.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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The Best Travel Health Insurance Companies for Europe

If you’re traveling to Europe this summer, you will definitely want travel insurance to supplement your trip in case anything goes wrong. These are six of the best travel insurance companies for coverage in Europe.

Photo: Pexels.com

When you’re planning a trip to Europe, half of the fun is working out the details of your itinerary, creating a bucket list of attractions to visit, and mapping out the route you want to take.

It’s easy to forget about the finer details, like travel insurance.

That’s just human nature. Who wants to think about the bad stuff when there’s so much to look forward to?

Travel insurance gives you peace of mind while you’re exploring. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a relaxing wine tour through Italy or a more adventurous jaunt through Switzerland – being insured means you’ll come home with only awesome memories and not outrageous medical bills.

But there are different types of travel insurance for Europe and the Schengen zone. Here’s how to pick the best one for your needs.

Why You Need Travel Insurance for Europe

So why do you even need travel insurance for Europe, anyway?

It all comes down to a very blunt truth: literally anything could happen while you’re on the road, and you need to protect yourself. It’s truly no different than having health insurance in your home country.

Travelers don’t like thinking about worst-case scenarios, but it’s the responsible thing to do. And a good travel insurance policy covers everything from the smallest stuff – like lost and stolen luggage – to all the big picture items, like natural disasters or broken bones. Yes, even death.

In countries where you’re not a resident, the cost of things like medical bills and emergency evacuation are drastically higher than in your home country (even compared to the US, where those bills are crazy high already). So while you might not like the idea of dishing out money for insurance, you definitely don’t want to return from your trip with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses.

Note: Depending on your home country, you might need to apply for a Schengen visa. Furthermore, countries outside the Europe Schengen zone may have different visa and travel insurance requirements than member states inside the Schengen zone, including the UK. When in doubt, talk to an agent!

BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE COMPANIES FOR EUROPE 

If you take away just one important thing from this article, let it be this: Europe travel insurance is necessary. Just because these countries are developed and modern doesn’t mean you’re immune to accidents or illness on your travels.

Have a look at the different Europe travel insurance companies and their travel insurance plans.

1. Seven Corners: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Students

So you’ve got your visa application sent off and you’re planning on studying for a semester in Europe. Welcome to one of the best experiences of your life!

It’s likely that you’ll be required to have Europe travel insurance as part of your visa requirements to study abroad (and you may even need to present proof of insurance with your visa application and your visa letter). Regardless, travel health insurance is a must—and Seven Corners is the best.

Seven Corners has three different travel insurance plans specifically designed for international students. Each one is customizable so that you can even change the amount of medical coverage (up to $250,000) as well as the deductible. When you visit the student health center at your school, it’ll only cost you a $5 copay. Trip cancellation and interruption are also covered.

There are tons of options to add as well. For example, if you want to visit family back home while on your holidays, you can add coverage for when you return to the US (or wherever home may be). That means if you get into an accident while you’re at home, you’ll have health insurance coverage.

Get a quote

2. SafetyWing: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Expats & Long-Term Travelers

SafetyWing has incredibly unique travel insurance offerings for long-term travelers/expats.

SafetyWing is a rare gem of a travel insurance company because their plans allow you to have coverage for as long as you want. It works like a subscription, and your plan renews every four weeks automatically (until you cancel).

You’ll get coverage up to $100,000 for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage in 180+ countries. Trip interruption and trip delay coverage is also included (up to $100/day), but trip cancellations are not.

There’s one downside: SafetyWing’s insurance policies will not cover your gear. For digital nomads traveling with laptops, cameras, and other items of high value, this may be a dealbreaker. The good news is that you can add supplemental insurance like InsureMyEquipment to make sure you’ve got complete coverage.

More information

3. World Nomads: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Adventure Travelers

World Nomads is an all-around awesome insurance provider, but especially if you’re an adventurous type. They cover over 300 sports and activities, and their Explorer Plan is catered specifically to those interested in higher-risk activities.

Snowboarding in Switzerland? Diving in the Mediterranean? Competing in an air guitar competition (seriously) in Finland? This is the policy for you.

World Nomads’ plans include up to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, medical evacuation and repatriation, and coverage for stolen or lost luggage. Bonus: their policies have always provided coverage for pandemics/epidemics, so you’re well covered up to $100,000 in emergency medical for COVID-19 too.

The user experience and customer service with World Nomads is also top-notch. If you’re not completely sure if your activity is covered, definitely speak with an insurance agent about your case.

4. Tin Leg: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Seniors

If you’re a senior ready to leave behind the US and make your dream of Europe travels come true, Tin Leg is the travel health insurance company for you.

Travel insurance requirements can be stringent for seniors, especially if you have pre-existing conditions (or if you’re over a certain age). Tin Leg is unique in that it offers travel insurance for people up to age 90!

Tin Leg has a few different plans, including the Tin Leg Economy policy with basic trip cancellations and medical coverage up to $20,000. That’s a bit low compared to other plans, but the Tin Leg Luxury policy covers people up to $100,000 for emergency medical and $250,000 for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.

Pre-Existing Condition coverage is also included if your policy is purchased within 15 days of booking your Europe trip.

5. Travelex: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Families

Taking the whole fam on a country-hopping tour of Europe? Travel insurance coverage is a must for the whole gang.

One of the best things about Travelex is that they provide free coverage for all children age 17 and under, as long as they’re traveling with you under a single policy. It doesn’t matter if you have one kid or five…they’re all covered for travel health insurance!

Travelex is a heavy-duty insurer, and although they only have two main plans they also tons of add-on options. The Basic plan covers $15,000 in emergency medical expenses, $100,000 for emergency medical evacuation, and $500 for lost and damaged baggage.

But with their Travel Select plan, your coverage skyrockets: you’ll get $50,000 in emergency medical, $1,000 for lost or damaged luggage, and $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage. You’ll also get 150 percent of your insured trip cost reimbursed if your trip is interrupted.

6. AXA: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Multiple Trips

If you’re addicted to Europe travel, getting covered by Ama’s Multi-Trip Schengen visa travel insurance is a must.

Multi-Trip is an AXA Schengen visa insurance for frequent travelers who plan on making several trips to Europe over one year. That means if, for example, you’re traveling between the US and France all year on business, you don’t have to purchase travel insurance more than once.

AXA offers medical insurance for expenses up to €100,000 ($111,000) for both the Schengen zone as well as other countries outside of Schengen. If your Europe travel takes you to places like Monaco and Liechtenstein, the AXA Multi-Trip Schengen travel insurance is a great option for you.

But before you plan multiple trips all over Europe, make sure you’re aware of the Schengen visa requirements. Citizens of certain countries may need to apply for a visa depending on the country (if you’re a traveler from the US, you likely won’t have to). Visa refusal is never a fun experience, so make sure to include your AXA Schengen visa insurance certificate with your visa application.

If you’re unsure about anything, AXA has some great customer service. When in doubt, give them a call.

EUROPE TRAVEL INSURANCE FAQs 

Now that you’re aware of the different Europe travel insurance options and their different travel insurance policies, let’s make sure you’re clear on everything else travel insurance related.

Is travel insurance necessary in Europe? 

Yes, as soon as you leave the US (or your home country) to visit Europe and the Schengen area, travel insurance is necessary. Travel medical insurance is by far the most important asset for any traveler because those medical expenses will skyrocket if you get sick or injured abroad.

Plus your Schengen travel insurance should also cover things like trip cancellations and interruption. No matter what country you’re visiting, you need to be prepared.

Does travel insurance for Europe also cover the United Kingdom?

It’s important to understand that not all countries are part of the European Schengen area, including the United Kingdom. Your Schengen visa will not apply here, and your European travel insurance may not apply.

Some insurances, like World Nomads, will take into account that you’re traveling all over the European region and that you don’t just need Schengen travel insurance. When you’re requesting a quote online, you can select each destination you’ll be visiting.

You need to check with your travel insurance plan to make sure you’re covered for all your medical expenses and emergency evacuation (as well as anything else you want).

Talk to some travel insurance agents for greater clarity on your options. Europe travel awaits!

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe? 

The amount of travel insurance coverage you need for Europe/the Schengen area really depends on what you’re planning to do. In any case, your insurance plan should at least cover you for up to $100,000 in medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

You’ll also want to consider what kind of expenses you’ll incur if you’re not covered for things like trip interruption, cancellations, and lost/damaged luggage. You can’t often make corrections to your travel health insurance plan after you’ve begun traveling, so make sure you get it right!

Do US citizens need travel insurance for Europe?

Yes, US citizens absolutely need travel medical insurance for Europe, including the Schengen area.

If you’re a US citizen and you get sick or if you’re seriously hurt while in Europe or the Schengen area, you could face crazy high medical expenses. That could mean hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical debt.

Europe travel insurance is a must for any traveler, and that means US citizens too.

What countries are included in Europe travel insurance?

Generally, Europe/Schengen travel insurance will cover all European countries. As mentioned above, insurers know that you’re likely to visit more than one country on your trip.

But do your homework. Some popular European countries aren’t part of the Schengen area, including the likes of Bulgaria, Croatia, and even the United Kingdom. When it comes to insurance coverage, make sure you read the fine print and make any corrections to your policy as needed.

Residents from certain countries other than the US may require a visa as well, and applicants will want to apply well in advance. Bottom line: your travel medical insurance (just like your Schengen visa requirements) may differ depending on where you’re going.

Does my health insurance cover me in Europe?

Depending on the health insurance coverage you have at home, you may have travel coverage for Europe travel too. Keep in mind this is still travel insurance though—you won’t be able to claim expenses for things like cosmetic surgery abroad.

But in general, residents of the US (and residents of other places, for that matter) shouldn’t assume they’re covered.

Pro-tip: review your policy in great detail before you leave, in case you need to make any corrections.

Do I need Schengen visa insurance for Europe?

Many citizens do not need a Schengen visa before traveling to Europe. You’ll need to figure out what the Schengen visa requirements are for your country first. If you’re a US citizen, for example, you do not need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Applying for a visa can be a daunting experience for some citizens, but the online process for applicants is pretty straightforward. Absolutely make sure you have proof of your Schengen visa travel insurance secured beforehand (like the AXA Schengen visa insurance certificate mentioned earlier), and include it with your visa letter and visa application.

Once you’ve received your Schengen visa, you’re good to go.

Now it’s time—are you ready to see Europe?

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Travel Insurance for a Trip to Europe (2024)

Travel insurance for Europe will help you avoid unexpected costs and provide peace of mind for as low as $70

Josh Lew is a travel journalist and writer based in the midwestern U.S. He has been active for the past decade, covering airlines, international destinations and ecotourism for sites like TravelPulse and TreeHugger. He currently contributes to content writing agency World Words.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Europe has some of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. Whether you visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris or explore off-the-beaten-path towns in Spain or Germany, travel insurance for Europe can protect you against financial losses while traveling. Delays and cancellations can derail your travel plans, and an accident, injury or illness could leave you with unexpected medical costs.

A travel insurance policy can cover emergency medical expenses and help you avoid losing the money you invested in airfares and hotels if your trip to Europe gets canceled. We at the MarketWatch Guides Team cover what you need to know about travel coverage to help you find the best travel insurance company for your European vacation.

The Best Europe Travel Insurance Companies

Use the table below to compare prices, COVID-19 coverage and “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) protection for our top travel insurance companies for a trip to Europe.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance is not required for U.S. citizens to enter Europe. Tourists traveling to countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement can enter with a U.S. passport. However, if you plan to stay in certain countries for more than 90 days, you may require a visa.

Europe boasts dozens of countries with diverse attractions and experiences that are easily accessible. A short train ride can take you from ski slopes or beaches to busy cities and quaint towns.

The number of travel possibilities makes Europe attractive to tourists, but certain activities can expose you to an increased risk of injury. If you plan to go skiing, cycling, scuba diving , mountain trekking or participate in any other activities, you can account for the risk of injury with travel health insurance. This insurance policy can cover the cost of emergency healthcare if you get hurt abroad. While you can prevent injuries by taking proper precautions, travel medical insurance gives you peace of mind knowing you have coverage if the unexpected occurs.

Travel insurance plans go beyond injury and illness protection. You can buy travel insurance to cover trip interruptions, cancellations and other travel-related problems like lost baggage. For example, labor strikes are common in Europe and can affect airlines and airports, leading to hundreds of flight cancellations . Travel insurance also covers delays due to storms, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes or other natural disasters.

Travel Medical Insurance in Europe

The U.S. has the highest healthcare costs in the world. However, eight of the 10 most expensive countries for medical care are in Europe. U.S. embassies in Europe can help you find care if you are hurt or sick but will not assist with medical costs. Private U.S. health insurance does not always cover overseas treatment, and government-sponsored programs like Medicare will not pay for care while you are abroad.

If you suffer an injury or illness and need medical treatment in Europe, you will likely have to pay out of pocket unless you have travel insurance for medical emergencies . These policies cover medical care in hospitals or clinics but will not pay for elective or unnecessary treatments. For example, if you break your leg while skiing in Switzerland, your travel medical insurance would pay for the hospital visit, surgery, and even an emergency helicopter transport.

Travel medical insurance can be purchased as part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan or as a stand-alone policy. Purchasing some level of travel medical coverage is wise if your regular health insurance is not valid internationally. You can opt for a supplemental plan that provides secondary coverage beyond what your existing health insurance offers. Like other travel coverage, you pay up-front for costs and then submit claims for reimbursement when you return home. Be sure to keep all receipts and medical documentation.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

Most international travel policies also include emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage to cover the cost of air transportation back home if you are seriously injured or ill and require long-term care. Travel insurance may also pay for returning your body home if you pass away while on vacation.

“Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) Coverage

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage allows you to receive compensation for a canceled trip for reasons outside your standard policy. Like all insurance, a traditional trip cancellation policy has exclusions. Your insurance provider will only reimburse for cancellations due to specific reasons, such as a death in the family, an unexpected illness or a natural disaster.

For standard insurance coverage, simply changing your mind does not qualify you for compensation. However, cancel for any reason policies allow you to obtain partial reimbursement for flights, lodging and other prepaid, nonrefundable expenses regardless of your motivation.

CFAR policies can be useful in specific situations. For example, if you book months in advance, it can help you account for scheduling conflicts that could arise between booking and departure.

Gear Theft Protection

Instances of theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, are relatively common in Europe. In fact, the European Union (EU) counted more than 4 million thefts in 2021. Wallets, phones and cameras are popular targets for thieves in tourist areas.

Comprehensive Europe travel insurance may include some gear theft coverage. However, limits are often $1,000 or less, so you may not have enough to cover the loss of expensive devices.

You can seek a travel insurance company that offers increased coverage limits for gear or provides stand-alone theft protection. These travel plans can be worthwhile if you have valuable gear, such as a high-end smartphone, laptop, tablet or camera. You might also consider coverage if you have skiing or sporting equipment.

Rental Car Protection in Europe

Forecasts predict that European agencies will rent vehicles to 60 million users in 2023. While the continent has an excellent train network and inexpensive regional flights, travelers may prefer the convenience and freedom of car travel.

In Europe, you must have liability coverage when you rent a car. Most companies also offer optional collision damage waiver (CDW) policies you can purchase directly from the rental agency. However, this coverage is often more expensive and may include a high deductible you would have to pay in the event of an accident.

Some credit cards offer rental car coverage, or your auto insurance may include coverage for rentals abroad. If you plan on driving extensively, you can also purchase a travel insurance policy with rental car protection.

Europe Trip Cancellation Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance pays for the cost of the pre-booked expenses if you cancel your trip to Europe for a covered reason. These policies are meant to cover events that are beyond your control. For example, cancellation insurance will pay the trip cost if you become seriously ill before your departure date.

You can purchase medical and trip cancellation insurance individually based on your coverage needs or buy comprehensive travel plans that account for all issues you could encounter in Europe.

The policies typically cover cancellations due to other circumstances, including:

• Legal obligations, such as jury summons or a court subpoena
• Natural disasters
• Military deployment
• A death in your immediate family
• Terrorism, conflicts or political instability

Trip cancellation insurance does not pay out if you change your mind or have a scheduling conflict. The policy may also have restrictions for issues related to pre-existing medical conditions or illnesses that started before you purchased the policy. Opt for CFAR coverage if you prefer flexibility in being able to cancel your travel plans.

You can purchase travel insurance that includes both cancellation and trip interruption coverage. Interruption insurance covers costs associated with unexpected delays. For example, this type of policy would have covered expenses when the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland stopped air travel for days.

How Much Does Europe Travel Insurance Cost?

Europe travel insurance costs vary depending on the type of coverage you need, the cost of your trip and your destination.

We gathered quotes from five major travel insurers for an international trip to Europe. The estimates below are for comprehensive travel insurance for five different trips to European countries. Coverage includes cancellation and interruption protection, lost baggage compensation , medical emergency coverage, and evacuation and repatriation. The trip details are the following:

• A 65-year-old couple taking a week-long $7,000 vacation to London
• A 30-year-old couple taking a week-long $7,000 trip to London
• A 19-year-old taking a week-long $2,000 trip to Paris, France
• A 27-year-old taking a week-long $1,800 trip to Athens, Greece
• A 51-year-old taking a week-long $2,000 vacation to Madrid, Spain

Trip costs are up-to-date as of April 2024.

Business travelers and other frequent fliers may find it cheaper to get an annual or multi-trip policy instead of single-trip coverage . However, single-trip coverage will likely suffice if you are planning a one-time trip.

Finally, insurers may have different rules for travel within Europe. Some policies are the same within all Schengen countries ( 27 nations that allow borderless movement ), while others require a detailed itinerary listing each country you intend to visit.

How Do I Get Travel Insurance for Europe?

The first step to getting travel insurance is to define your coverage needs. Here are some factors to consider:

• Does your credit card have cancellation insurance if you use it to book your air tickets and hotel reservations?
• Does your health insurance cover emergencies occur overseas?
• Does your airline offer cancellation insurance or have policies that allow you to cancel before your departure date?
• Does your auto insurance policy protect car rentals in Europe?
• Are you traveling with valuable devices or gear that you need to insure?

Once you answer these questions, you can start requesting quotes and select a policy that has the coverage you need and fits your budget.

Europe Safety Tips

Though Europe does experience conflicts and unrest, it is considered a safe continent overall, with most countries experiencing much lower violent crime rates than elsewhere in the world. However, common-sense safety measures can ensure a smooth trip during your European travels.

Crime and Safety

Violent crime is rare in Europe, with 3,690 homicides and 216,400 robberies across the entire continent in 2021. But petty theft, including pickpocketing, is quite common, with more than four million incidents in 2021.

In addition to avoiding isolated areas and staying in groups after dark, take steps to secure items and money in your pockets using zippers, internal pockets or a money belt worn inside your clothing.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

Whether you are visiting the Netherlands, Portugal or Romania, there are countless opportunities for day trips and tours across Europe. For example, visitors to Belgium can take a day trip to Luxembourg, or you can visit Sweden while staying in Denmark.

Europe also offers many adventure sports opportunities. Activities like trekking, cycling or skiing can increase your risk of injury. For example, ski injuries are very common in popular destinations like the French Alps. In addition to proper equipment, you should always stick to conditions fitting your skill level to decrease your risks on roads, slopes, or trails.

If you plan to pack your itinerary while in Europe, travel insurance can offer reimbursement for canceled tours and excursions. A travel insurance policy can also cover medical expenses if you are injured while participating in certain activities.

Europe has lifted all travel restrictions related to the coronavirus. Travelers from the U.S. can currently enter the EU without documentation regarding vaccinations or recent COVID test results. However, each EU country can impose restrictions or requirements so be sure to check the rules of each country on your itinerary before departure.

Is Travel Insurance for a Europe Vacation Worth It?

Travel insurance is worth it if your credit card , health coverage, and auto insurance do not provide the protection you need while traveling. Although insurance coverage may add to the overall price tag of your trip, it could save you thousands in medical expenses or sunken costs due to unexpected injuries or cancellations. Coverage can also protect your belongings, including lost or damaged luggage and gear such as sporting equipment and cameras.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance in Europe

How do i claim compensation for canceled flights to europe.

Compensation for canceled or delayed flights is subject to the airline and not guaranteed.

Airlines have steps to claim compensation based on EU regulations . You are entitled to compensation for canceled flights if the airline does not book you on the next available plane. These rules apply to airlines licensed in the EU, flights within Europe and flights leaving Europe on EU or non-EU-licensed airlines.

You may also receive compensation for food or accommodations if your delay lasts longer than two hours.

Does Europe require travel insurance?

Travelers entering the EU from the U.S. and other visa-free countries are not required to have travel insurance . However, travelers from countries with visa requirements for the Schengen area must have insurance coverage.

Can you buy stand-alone travel medical coverage for Europe?

Travel insurance companies offer stand-alone medical and evacuation insurance policies. However, you can also purchase this coverage as part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan with trip cancellation, interruption and lost baggage protection.

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Travel insurance covers unforeseen events, such as illnesses, accidents or trip cancellations for reasons outside your control. Coverage typically does not extend to foreseeable problems, such as illnesses due to pre-existing conditions or travel to existing conflict zones.

Is Europe a popular destination for U.S. tourists?

In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic slowed travel, 30 million Americans crossed the Atlantic to visit Europe. France remains the most popular country for tourism in the world, and other destinations, from Italy to Norway to Croatia to Switzerland, draw millions of visitors each year.

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• Key takeaways

Do I need travel insurance to visit Europe?

What does travel insurance for europe cover, what isn’t covered by european travel insurance, how much does travel insurance for europe cost, how to get the best travel insurance for europe, europe travel information & requirements, europe travel insurance faqs, related topics.

Europe Travel Insurance: Your Essential Coverage Guide

• Based on our research, our top picks for travel insurance for Europe come from Tin Leg , Generali , and Seven Corners .
• If you have an emergency while traveling overseas, a European travel insurance plan can reimburse you for some of your losses.
• American medical insurance doesn’t cover the cost of receiving health care in Europe , so it’s especially important to get medical and medevac insurance when traveling in Europe.
• Street crime, risks of terrorism, and political unrest are some of the reasons trip interruption, cancellation, and medical coverage should be considered when visiting Europe.
• In addition to medical costs, a comprehensive travel insurance plan for Europe can also help cover costs associated with cancellations, delays, lost baggage, and more.
• While cheap insurance with basic coverage can cost as little as $1 per day, you can expect to pay around $8 to $11 per day for more extensive travel insurance.
• To compare plans and find the right policy to suit your needs, we recommend using an online comparison tool .

Our top picks for the best europe travel insurance

• Tin Leg: Best Rated Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners: Best Value for a Robust Coverage
• Generali Global Assistance: Best Value Travel Insurance

Our top picks for Europe travel insurance

Seven Corners

Generali global assistance.

Standard European travel insurance usually covers every country in the European Union (now excluding the UK ) and the Schengen Zone . If you plan to travel to either country, make sure your insurance plan will cover you. If you plan to travel to a non-Schengen, non-EU country, ask your agent to write a custom policy that includes every destination on your itinerary. Alternatively, you can purchase an annual insurance plan that covers you for multiple trips and destinations.

Although you don’t have to officially buy travel insurance unless you plan to apply for a visa, it’s wise to buy coverage even if it’s not required. Travel insurance protects against losses associated with medical emergencies, travel delays, lost or stolen luggage, and a wide range of other travel-related problems as we can see below.

Best Rated Travel Insurance

Why we like it.

• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Cancelation & interruption coverage
• Offers hurricane and weather coverage
• Cancel for any reason not included standard

Best Value for a Robust Coverage

• Offers coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Money-back guarantee
• Cancellation & Interruption coverage standard
• Covers action sports & equipment
• Must meet waiver for pre-existing conditions to be covered

Best Value Travel Insurance

• Lowest cost of all Generali Global Assistance plans
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
• Telemedicine included
• Lower coverage than other Generali plans
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered by the Standard plan
• No coverage for accidental death and dismemberment during on-land travel

Here are some of the reasons Americans should get travel insurance for visiting Europe

Risk of falling victim to street crime

Instances of pickpocketing, general theft, financial scams, and street muggings are not uncommon throughout Europe , as highlighted by the European Crime Prevention Network . Such acts of opportunist theft often happen throughout major European cities such as London, Paris, Berlin, and Rome, places where there are a high number of visiting tourists with their guard down. Therefore, it’s important that you keep your valuables out of sight and secure, especially when visiting popular tourist sites and traveling on public transport.

Purchasing travel insurance to Europe that covers you for loss of items can go a long way to relieving any stress you receive from falling victim to pickpockets and thieves during your vacation to Europe.

Risk of terrorism

Much like the rest of the Western world, E urope remains on high alert for the risk of terrorist attacks , especially in recent years, especially from Islamic and political extremists - as seen in the official Europol data . Although Europol and local law enforcement strive to keep the risk of attack relatively low, it is not without basis that attacks can happen.

Therefore, it’s important for US citizens to take out travel insurance that covers them for emergency medical coverage and emergency evacuation coverage , should the worst happen while they are on

Political unrest

Political demonstrations, industrial strikes, and even riots are not uncommon across many European nations , especially in the nation’s capitals. As seen in the recent Paris riots in 2023 , these demonstrations can spill out across the city and cause chaos to both tourists and locals alike.

Having an insurance plan that covers you for any trip interruptions, cancellations, and medical coverage for any unforeseen accidents you may face is ideal when traveling across Europe .

Outdoor activities

Visitors to Europe can enjoy a huge range of outdoor activities. Whether this is hiking through the foothills of the Alps, scaling the numerous mountains scattered across the continent, swimming and boating along its endless shores, or an exciting mix of all - this all comes with its own particular risks.

If you plan to enjoy the endless opportunities of the great outdoors while on vacation, you must have travel health insurance in Europe that covers you for sporting and adventure pursuits.

Risk of a driving accident

Generally speaking, driving in Europe is a safe affair. However, it is important to remember that each country has its own unique driving conditions and rules, as can be seen on the official website of the EU . It’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules and driving customs of any European country you are visiting.

If you are planning to hire a vehicle while vacating in Europe, you should consider taking out rental care travel insurance that covers accidents, theft, and vandalism . Also, considering the general risks while driving on unfamiliar roads, emergency medical coverage is a must.

European travel insurance usually bundles several types of coverage into a single policy. Here are some of the most common types of travel insurance available:

Travel medical insurance in Europe

The best travel insurance for Europe should, at the most basic level, include coverage for medical emergencies and emergency evacuation coverage. Your American health insurance won’t pick up the tab if you need medical care while you’re in Europe. Therefore, it’s important to buy travel medical insurance . Health insurance for travel to Europe covers lab tests, X-rays, and other medical expenses. This type of insurance also covers the cost of repatriation, which is when you leave Europe and return to the United States.\

Medical travel insurance can be purchased as part of a comprehensive travel insurance plan or as an independent policy on its own. In addition to medical travel insurance, consider broadening your policy to include coverage for travel delays, cancellations, and interruptions.

Medical evacuation insurance

In addition to your travel medical insurance in Europe, you should have medical evacuation insurance , better known as medevac coverage. It would be convenient to get sick less than 1 mile away from a hospital, but many emergency situations occur in remote areas without immediate access to medical care.

This type of travel insurance pays to transport you to the closest suitable medical facility. For example, if you sustain serious injuries while skiing or hiking, your insurer will cover the cost of having a helicopter transport you to a trauma center.

Trip cancellation insurance

If you have to cancel your trip for no fault of your own, trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for all prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses up to the limit outlined in your policy. For example, this type of travel insurance may cover the cost of flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid excursions. Some policies will also offer cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage . This allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and claim back between 50% and 70% of your total prepaid travel expenses.

Trip delay insurance

These days, flight delays are common. It’s also possible for a cruise ship, ferry, or bus to depart later than scheduled, causing you to miss your connection. If this happens while you’re traveling in Europe, trip delay insurance will cover meals, lodging, and other expenses incurred due to the delay. To use this type of travel insurance, you must be using a common carrier, which is a company that provides transportation services to the public.

Trip interruption insurance

It’s no fun ending a trip early, but it’s even less fun if you lose money on prepaid lodging, meals, and other expenses. Trip interruption insurance takes the sting out of this situation by reimbursing you for the unused portion of your trip.

Insurance for personal items

Comprehensive travel insurance usually covers baggage loss, baggage theft, and damage to the personal items in your luggage. For example, if your duffel bag gets stuck in a machine at the airport, your travel insurance may cover the cost of replacing some of your damaged belongings.

Rental car coverage

If you plan to travel around town in a rented vehicle, consider getting rental car coverage for extra peace of mind. This type of insurance covers accidents, theft, and vandalism.

Standard travel insurance covers many things, but it usually excludes the following:

• Intentional acts:   If you damage a rental car on purpose, your travel insurance won’t pay a dime.
• Pre-existing conditions:   Travel health insurance doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, which are health problems that you have before you travel to Europe. For example, if you’ve had hypertension for 10 years, your travel insurance won’t pay any medical expenses associated with a hypertensive crisis. If you are aware of any ongoing illnesses, it is advisable to purchase insurance for pre-existing conditions .
• Reasonably foreseeable events:   An emergency is a serious, unexpected event, so you don’t know when it’s going to occur. With a reasonably foreseeable event, there is some indication that an emergency might happen. If you choose to travel anyway, your travel insurance won’t cover any costs associated with trip cancellations, trip delays or trip interruptions.
• Injuries caused by risky activities:   SCUBA diving, skydiving, and mountain climbing are risky. Standard travel insurance doesn’t cover medical expenses associated with these activities, so you’ll need to buy a policy that includes coverage for adventure sports.
• Government travel restrictions:   Your insurance company has no control over how a government conducts its business. Therefore, if one of the countries you’re visiting decides to implement new travel restrictions during your trip, travel insurance won’t cover any of the associated costs.

Travel insurance for a trip to Europe can be as cheap as around $1 per day for very basic coverage. For a comprehensive policy, you can typically expect to pay $8 to $11 per day.

To give you a better idea of how much travel insurance for Europe costs we got price quotes for a trip to Ireland from three different insurance providers.

For each quote, we applied the following travel details:

• Age: 35 years old
• Destination: Ireland
• Trip Length: 7 days
• Trip cost: $2,000
• Date: August 2024

This table displays three quotes for basic travel insurance plans where plans don’t reimburse the full trip costs:

If you want to purchase more comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and interruptions, your premium will be more expensive:

It’s important to understand that many factors influence the cost of travel insurance.

• Age:   Older people have a higher risk of developing serious injuries. Travel insurance providers account for this risk with higher prices. However, there is also the opportunity to purchase specific travel insurance for seniors - these policies are designed with elderly travelers in mind.
• Trip length:   The longer your trip is, the more money you’re likely to spend. Insurers charge more for long trips to account for the increased cost of reimbursing you for delays, cancellations, and other problems.
• Destination:   Some destinations are a bit riskier than others. Insurance companies charge higher premiums to avoid losing money on claims.

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe?

Knowing what level of travel insurance you need for Europe depends on the trip you plan to take. It’s vital to factor in your choice of destination, the activities you plan to do, and the likelihood of you needing to cancel your trip. All of these can determine what type of coverage you will need and by how much. Generally speaking, a standard comprehensive insurance plan will cost you between 5 and 10% of your total trip costs

To get the best travel insurance for Europe, follow these tips:

Plan your itinerary carefully

The cost of travel insurance depends on your destination and the type of transportation you plan to use.

Purchase extra coverage if you plan to participate in adventure activities

Most travel insurance plans don’t cover adventure activities, so be sure to purchase additional protection if you plan to take part in such plans

Think about how much flexibility you want

If there’s a good chance you’ll experience an unexpected hiccup, consider purchasing comprehensive health insurance for European travel rather than a basic policy

Consult the table below for a quick overview of the requirements for traveling from the United States to Europe

Tips for visiting Europe

Are there covid-19 restrictions for entering europe.

As of September 2023, most countries have eliminated their COVID-19 screening requirements. However, the situation may change at any time, as SARS-CoV-2 mutates regularly. It is there for advisable that you take out a travel insurance policy that offers COVID-19 coverage .

Do I need a visa to travel to Europe?

In most European countries, including the  27 countries in the Schengen Zone , you don’t need a visa for trips lasting 90 days or less. You do need a visa if you plan to travel to Turkey or the Russian Federation, regardless of how long you plan to stay.

If you plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days, you may need a Schengen visa or a country-specific visa. The Schengen visa allows you to travel between countries in the Schengen Area without going through a check at every border crossing.

As of mid-2025, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will go into effect. This system will require any US citizen traveling to Europe to complete an ETIAS application for any European nation that is a co-signer of the Schengen Agreement. The application will cost $8, although some travelers are exempt from paying this fee.

The table below shows the tourist visa requirements for European countries.

Does American insurance work in Europe?

Most U.S. health insurance plans will not cover medical care and treatment outside the United States . Although there are some small exceptions, having comprehensive EU travel insurance will protect you against huge medical bills, travel delays, and much more

Does Medicare cover you in Europe?

In most situations, US-based insurance policies such as Medicare will not provide coverage outside the US. Therefore, it is best to purchase a medical travel insurance plan. This will protect you from huge bills when you require health care or medical supplies you get outside the U.S.

Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

In most cases, travel insurance isn’t required, but you should get it anyway. This type of insurance gives you extra peace of mind in the event you experience a delay, cancellation, or other problem outside of your control.

Is travel insurance for Europe worth it?

Absolutely, travel insurance is worth it . You never know when you’ll come down with a serious illness or experience some other type of emergency. It’s good to have travel insurance to reimburse you for your losses.

How much does travel insurance for a trip to Europe cost?

It depends on your age, destination, and trip cost. For the most basic coverage, you can purchase a policy for as little as $1 per day. A more extensive travel insurance policy for Europe will generally cost between $8 and $11 per day.

Can I use my U.S. health insurance in Europe?

No. Your U.S. health insurance won’t cover any medical expenses incurred in Europe

Leigh Morgan is a seasoned personal finance contributor with over 15 years of experience writing on a diverse range of professional legal and financial topics. She specializes in subjects like navigating the complexities of insurance, savings, zero-based budgeting and emergency fund development.

In the last 5 years, she’s authored over 300 articles for credit unions, digital banks, and financial professionals. Morgan is also the author of “77 Tips for Preventing Elder Financial Abuse,” a book focused on helping caregivers protect the elderly from financial scams.

In addition to her writing skills, she brings real-world financial acumen thanks to her previous experience managing rental properties as part of a $34 million real estate portfolio.

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Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

How much does travel insurance cost, types of travel insurance, how to get travel insurance, what to look for in travel insurance, best travel insurance comparison sites, which insurance company is best for travel insurance, when to skip travel insurance, travel insurance, recapped.

Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, emergencies, trip interruptions, baggage, rental cars and more.

Cost is affected by trip length, pre-existing medical conditions, depth of coverage, your age and add-ons.

You can get it through credit cards or third-party companies, & can shop on travel insurance comparison sites.

Before buying, evaluate risks, know existing coverage, obtain quotes online and review policy details warily.

Skip it if you buy flexible airfare and hotels, already have coverage or only book refundable activities.

Booking travel always carries some degree of uncertainty. Travel insurance provides a safety net so you can step out with confidence. You may not need travel insurance for inexpensive trips, but it can provide a sense of security when you prepay for pricey reservations, a big international trip or travel during cold and flu season, which can be unpredictable.

According to insurance comparison site Squaremouth, travelers in 2023 spent an average of $403 for comprehensive coverage, compared to $96 for medical-only policies. Comprehensive plans typically cost between 5% and 10% of the insured trip cost.

Since that price tag is no small amount, it helps to know how to shop smart for travel insurance. Here's how to find the right travel insurance plan for you and your next adventure.

Depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for, the chart below will help you determine what to look for when selecting a policy:

Depending on the policy, travel insurance reimburses you or offers services when something goes awry. There’s even coverage for the worst-case scenario: if you die in an accident while traveling. Accidental death coverage pays your beneficiary a lump sum in that case.

Before you buy, take a little time to get familiar with different types of travel insurance products, how it’s priced, and what it covers and excludes. If you’re traveling during these uncertain times, you’ll want to make sure that the policy you select covers coronavirus-related emergencies. Usually, the more thorough the coverage, the more it will cost.

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

Length and cost of the trip: The longer and more expensive the trip, the higher the policy cost.

Cost of local health care: High health-care costs in your destination can drive up the price of trip insurance.

Medical conditions you want covered: Conditions you already have will increase the cost of travel insurance coverage.

Amount and breadth of coverage: The more risks a policy covers, the more it will cost.

Your age: Generally the older you are, the higher the price.

Any optional supplement you add to your policy : Cancel For Any Reason , Interrupt For Any Reason and more.

Keep these factors in mind when considering different travel insurance options.

You’ll find a wide selection of travel protection plans when you shop for a policy.

Typically, travel insurance is sold as a package, known as a comprehensive plan, which includes a variety of coverage.

Here are seven of the most common types of travel insurance:

Travel medical insurance

These plans provide health insurance while you’re away from home. Although in some ways these policies work like traditional health plans, generally you cannot use travel health insurance for routine medical events. For example, a routine medical checkup is usually not covered. In addition, these policies often include limitations on coverage and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

Although most travel insurance plans cover many recreational activities, such as skiing and horseback riding, they often exclude adventure sports, such as skydiving or parasailing, or competition in organized sporting events. You may need to buy a special travel policy designed for adventure or competitive sports.

International travel insurance

Most likely, your U.S.-based medical insurance will not work while you’re traveling internationally, and Medicare does not provide any coverage once you leave the United States outside of a few very specific exemptions. If you plan on traveling abroad, purchasing travel medical insurance could make a lot of sense.

» Learn more: Travel medical insurance: Emergency coverage while you travel internationally

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if the tour operator goes out of business or you have to cancel the trip for one of the covered reasons outlined in the policy, such as:

Your own illness.

The illness or death of a family member who’s not traveling with you.

Natural disasters.

Trip interruption insurance covers the nonrefundable cost of the unused portion of the trip if it is interrupted due to a reason outlined in the policy.

Trip delay coverage reimburses you for expenses such as lodging and meals if you’re delayed during a trip (e.g., your flight gets canceled due to weather ).

Many package policies cover all three. These policies are different from the cancellation waivers that cruise lines and tour operators offer, the Insurance Information Institute says. Waivers are cheap, ranging from $40 to $60, and often include restrictions. For example, according to the institute, waivers might not refund your money if you cancel immediately before departure. Waivers are technically not insurance policies.

Some companies offer additional layers of coverage at extra cost. “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage will reimburse a large part of the trip cost, no matter why you back out. And some companies let you pay extra to cover pre-existing conditions if you cancel for medical reasons.

Some insurers and comparison sites let you customize a policy by choosing types of coverage a la carte. For example, TravelInsurance.com is a comparison site that provides quotes from different providers.

Baggage and personal belongings

How does lost luggage insurance work? This coverage reimburses you for baggage and personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged during the trip. Some plans also reimburse you for extra expenses if you experience a baggage delay for more than a certain period, such as 12 hours.

Your renters or homeowners insurance may cover personal belongings while you are traveling. It’s best to review your homeowners insurance policy to determine the level of coverage it provides so you do not end up paying for a benefit you already have.

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

This coverage pays medical expenses if you get sick or injured on a trip . Medical evacuation coverage pays for transporting you to the nearest hospital, and medical repatriation pays for flying you to your home country.

» Learn more: Can I get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

24-hour assistance

This service is included with many package plans. The insurer provides a 24-hour hotline that you can call when you need help, such as booking a flight after a missed connection, finding lost luggage, or locating a doctor or lawyer.

Generally, travel insurance companies do not cover sports or any activity that can be deemed risky. If you’re thinking of incorporating adventurous activities into your vacation, choose a plan that includes adventure sports coverage.

Most travel insurers cover a wide array of services, but the specific options vary. Some plans include concierge services, providing help with restaurant referrals, tee time reservations and more. Many services also offer information before the trip, such as required vaccinations. The only way to know what’s included is to read the policy.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

This coverage pays a lump sum to your beneficiary, such as a family member, if you die in an accident while on the trip. Accidental death and dismemberment insurance policies also pay a portion of the sum to you if you lose a hand, foot, limb, eyesight, speech or hearing. Some plans apply only to accidental death in a plane.

This coverage may be duplicative if you already have sufficient life insurance, which pays out whether you die in an accident or from an illness. You may also already have accidental death and dismemberment insurance through work, so it's best to check your policies to ensure you’re not overpaying.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

Rental car insurance pays for repairing your rental car if it’s damaged in a wreck, by vandals or in a natural disaster. The coverage doesn't include liability insurance, which pays for damage to other vehicles or for the medical treatment of others if you cause an accident and are held responsible.

Ask your car insurance company whether your policy will cover you when renting cars on the trip. U.S. car insurance policies generally don’t cover you when driving in other countries, except Canada.

Car insurance requirements are complex because they vary among countries. You can usually purchase liability insurance from the rental car company. Learn about car insurance requirements by searching for auto insurance by country on the U.S. Embassy website .

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

Single trip insurance plans are a great option for those going on a single trip for a specific length of time (e.g., a two-week vacation) and then returning home. The price of the policy is usually determined by the cost of the trip.

Long-term travel policies cover you for multiple trips, but there are limitations to how long you can be away from home, if you can return home during your travels and how many trips you can take. In addition, trip cancellation and interruption coverage is either not offered or capped at a dollar amount that can be significantly below the total cost of all the trips taken during the covered period.

Long-term travel insurance plans — often called 'multi-trip' or 'annual travel insurance' — are a suitable option for those who travel often and are satisfied with the amount of trip cancellation coverage for all the trips they take over the duration of the policy.

» Learn more: How annual (multi-trip) travel insurance works

Below, we include how to obtain travel insurance, along with the pros and cons of each option.

Some credit cards offer trip cancellation and rental car insurance if you use the card to book the trip or car.

When you book a trip with your credit card, depending on the card you use, you may already receive trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

Here are a handful of credit cards that offer varying levels of travel insurance coverage for purchases made with the card.

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

• Rental car insurance: Up to $75,000.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

• Rental car insurance: Up to the actual cash value of the car.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

Cons: You can’t customize the insurance to meet your needs. Most credit cards offer secondary car rental insurance, which pays for the costs not covered by your regular car insurance plan.

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

You can buy travel insurance when you book your flight, hotel and car rental.

Pros: Buying is as quick and easy as clicking “yes” when you book reservations. Coverage is inexpensive.

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance

Travel insurance comparison sites

You can compare different policies and review quotes at once based on the trip search criteria you’ve input into the search form. Examples include marketplaces like Squaremouth or TravelInsurance.com.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs and compare policies and pricing in one place.

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs. Many travel insurer websites also offer information to help you understand the coverage.

Cons: You’ll need to go to multiple websites to compare coverage and pricing.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Keep these tips in mind when you’re considering a trip insurance policy.

Evaluate the financial risks you face when traveling. Can you bear those costs yourself, or do you want insurance?

Examine what coverage you already have: Does your credit card offer travel insurance? Do you have renters or homeowners insurance to cover belongings? What is the deductible? Will your health plan cover you in all the locations where you travel?

Get quotes for trip insurance online. Choose a package of the benefits you need and compare prices for similar coverage among carriers.

Narrow your choices and then read the policy fine print to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded and the limits on coverage. You may find that the lowest-priced policy is too restrictive and that paying a little more gets you the coverage you need. Or you might find that the cheapest, most basic policy fits the bill.

If you don’t know which provider to go with, it makes sense to browse a list of plans on a travel insurance comparison site. These online marketplaces will often include plans from the best travel insurance companies along with customer reviews.

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

Under its Zero Complaint Guarantee, Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will remove a provider if any customer complaint isn't resolved to its satisfaction.

Has a filter option to see policies that provide COVID-coverage.

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

See good and poor customer ratings and reviews for each insurer when you receive quotes.

“Learning Center” includes travel insurance articles and travel tips, including important how-to information.

Quotes provided from each provider include a link to COVID-19 FAQs, making it easy for customers to review what’s covered or not.

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

“Anytime Advocates” help customers navigate the claim process and will work on behalf of the customer to help with appealing a denied claim.

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

Search coverage by sporting activity, including ground, air and water sports.

Many types of plans available for students, visiting family members, new immigrants, those seeking COVID quarantine coverage and more.

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

Over 5,600 customer reviews on Trustpilot, with an average 4.9 stars out of five.

Formerly known as AardvarkCompare, AARDY includes a “Travel Insurance 101” learning center to help customers understand various policies and benefits.

Quote search results page includes COVID-coverage highlighted in a different color to make it easier for customers to review related limits.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care, COVID coverage or a policy that includes extreme sports, these providers have you covered.

Our full analysis and more details about each organization can be found here: The Best Travel Insurance Companies Today .

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

There are a few scenarios when spending extra on travel insurance doesn't really make sense, like:

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

» Learn more: When you don't need travel insurance

Yes, especially for nonrefundable trips and travel during the COVID-era. Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or have travel insurance from your credit card, you shouldn't travel without having some sort of travel protection in place to safeguard you and your trip. Travel insurance can protect you in case of an unexpected emergency such as a canceled flight due to weather, a medical event that requires hospitalization, lost luggage and more.

There are many good travel insurance policies out there and a policy that may be great for you may not be good for someone else. Selecting the best plan depends on what coverage you would like and your trip details.

For example, World Nomads offers a comprehensive travel insurance policy that has excellent coverage for adventure sports. Allianz provides coverage for trips of varying lengths of time through its single trip plans and multi-trip plans. Some providers offer add-on options like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance. If you’re not sure which plan to go with, consider looking at trip insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth or Insuremytrip.

Yes, you can. However, it's better to purchase it sooner rather than later, ideally right after booking your trip because the benefits begin as soon as you purchase a policy.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your trip cancellation benefits to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

Most comprehensive travel insurance plans offer trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and dental, medical evacuation, trip delay and lost luggage coverage. Many plans offer COVID coverage, but you’ll always want to check to ensure that the policy you choose provides that benefit if you’re traveling during these times. Some plans may also allow you to add features like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

However, the coverage provided by the credit cards is usually lower than if you purchased a standalone policy. Review the travel insurance benefits on your credit card and check that the limits are adequate before foregoing from purchasing a separate plan.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

Unpredictability is one of the mind-opening joys of travel, but travel insurance should contain no surprises. The time you spend to understand your options will be well worth the peace of mind as you embark on your next adventure.

Whether you’re seeking a single or a long-term policy, each travel insurance option offers different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right policy depends on your trip needs, your budget and how important various benefits are to you.

Keep reading

If you want to dig in deeper to world of travel insurance, these resources will point you in the right direction.

What is travel insurance?

How much is travel insurance?

Is travel insurance worth it?

What does travel insurance cover?

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.