European Health Insurance Card vs travel insurance: key differences before you travel
Travelling abroad is one of the most enriching experiences we can have. However, many people still think that the European Health Insurance Card is enough to be fully protected during their holidays.
The reality is that there are very important differences between the European Health Insurance Card and travel insurance, especially when we talk about medical assistance, cancellations, repatriations, or problems outside the European Union.
Before you pack your bags, it's worth understanding what each option really covers and why having travel insurance can prevent significant financial and health problems.
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows access to public healthcare in certain European countries under the same conditions as the citizens of the country you are travelling to.
This means that:
- There may be co-payments.
- Some treatments may not be covered.
- Private assistance is excluded.
- It does not cover rescues, repatriations or cancellations.
The TSE is valid in:
- European Union countries
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
- Switzerland
You can find all official information on the website of the Social Security.
What does travel insurance actually cover?
Travel insurance offers much broader protection against the most common problems that can arise during a holiday.
Depending on the policy taken out, it may include:
Private medical assistance abroad
Especially important in countries where healthcare is very expensive, such as:
- United States
- Canada
- Japan
- Switzerland
In some destinations, a simple hospitalisation can run into thousands of euros.
Repatriation of remains
One of the most important and least known aspects.
If you need to return to Spain due to illness or accident, the cost of repatriation can be extremely high without insurance.
Cancellation of the trip
Many insurance policies allow you to reclaim expenses if you have to cancel due to:
- illness
- hospitalisation
- Employment problems
- justified family reasons
Lost or stolen luggage
They can also include compensation for:
- Lost luggage
- delays
- Stolen documents
24-hour assistance
Most travel insurance policies include 24/7 telephone support and international medical co-ordination.
Key differences between the European Health Insurance Card and travel insurance
European Health Insurance Card | Travel insurance |
Only valid in certain European countries | Worldwide coverage |
Access to public healthcare | Access to private healthcare |
It may require co-payments | Much wider medical coverage |
No covers cancellations | Yes, it can cover cancellations |
Luggage is not covered | Yes, luggage can be included |
It does not cover repatriation | It does include repatriation |
Not valid outside Europe | International protection |
So the European Health Insurance Card isn't enough?
It depends on the destination and the type of trip.
For short breaks within Europe, it can be a significant help, but relying solely on the EHIC may leave many risks uncovered.
For example:
- high medical expenses
- in-patient admissions
- rescues
- medical flights
- Cancellations
- loss of connections
- Robots
Furthermore, outside of Europe, the European Health Insurance Card has no direct validity.
It is especially advisable to take out travel insurance when:
There are situations where taking out travel insurance is particularly advisable:
Travel outside Europe
Especially to:
- United States
- Asia
- Latin America
- Africa
Family trips
A medical problem on a family holiday can multiply costs rapidly.
Cruises
Healthcare costs offshore are usually very high.
Extreme sports or activities
Skiing, surfing, hiking or water sports may require specific cover.
Flights with stopovers or long-haul flights
Increases the probability of incidents with luggage and connections.
Travelling with peace of mind is also part of the holidays
When we organise a trip, we tend to compare hotels, flights and activities, but we often forget to consider the economic impact an unforeseen event abroad can have.
Having adequate travel insurance not only helps protect your health and your wallet. It also provides peace of mind to truly enjoy your holiday.
At PIB Group Iberia, we have a team of travel insurance experts ready to personally advise you in choosing the best insurance for you. Contact us at PIB Group Iberia for personalised advice without obligation.
