Destinations
Best Travel Insurance for Europe in 2025: What to Look For
GHIC is not enough. Here's what a great European travel insurance policy actually looks like — and how cheap it can be.
Europe remains the UK's favourite holiday region — and the cheapest place to insure. A week in Spain rarely costs more than £15 to insure, but the difference between policies can be huge once something goes wrong.
The non-negotiables for European cover
- £5 million minimum medical cover
- £3,000+ cancellation cover per person
- £1,500+ baggage cover
- 24/7 UK-based emergency assistance
- Excess of £100 or less (or zero-excess option)
GHIC is a partner, not a replacement
The Global Health Insurance Card gives you access to state-funded healthcare in EU countries on the same terms as locals. That means you'll often pay something — and it covers nothing private, no repatriation, no lost luggage, no cancellation.
How much does European cover cost?
For a healthy 35-year-old:
- 7-day single trip: £10–£18
- 14-day single trip: £15–£28
- Annual multi-trip Europe: £30–£60
Watch out for "Europe" definitions
Insurers define Europe differently. Some include Egypt, Turkey, Morocco and Tunisia under "Europe" pricing; others class them as Worldwide. Always check the country list before buying.
Driving in Europe
Travel insurance covers personal liability but not driving liability. For hire cars, check whether you need car hire excess insurance. For driving your own car abroad, you need motor insurance with European cover added.
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