Brexit has indeed reshaped the landscape of European travel, and one noticeable impact is on travel insurance. While the freedom of movement we once enjoyed has evolved, the need for comprehensive, yet Cheap Travel Insurance remains as crucial as ever, especially when planning your next trip to Europe.
One of the key changes post-Brexit is the alteration in regulations, which has, for some, led to an increase in the cost of travel insurance policies for European destinations. This is primarily because the technicalities of border crossings and revised healthcare agreements have introduced new factors for insurers to consider.
Adding to the changes, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is no longer automatically available to UK residents. Instead, the UK government introduced the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). If you already have an EHIC, it remains valid until its expiry date. You can apply for a GHIC once your EHIC expires.
However, it’s vital to understand that neither a GHIC nor an EHIC is a substitute for cheap travel insurance. These cards offer access to state-provided healthcare in Europe, but their coverage is limited. Crucially, they do not cover several critical aspects of travel emergencies:
- Medical Repatriation Insurance: Being airlifted or transported back to the UK in case of serious illness or injury is not covered by GHIC/EHIC. This is a significant expense that only dedicated travel insurance, including cheap travel insurance policies, can protect you from.
- Mountain Rescue: If you’re planning adventurous activities like skiing or hiking in mountainous regions, GHIC/EHIC will not cover mountain rescue services. Winter sports travel insurance or comprehensive cheap travel insurance is necessary for such eventualities.
- Lost or Stolen Baggage: The frustration and financial loss from lost or stolen luggage are realities of travel. GHIC/EHIC offers no protection against this, making cheap travel insurance with baggage cover essential.
- Private Medical Treatment: While GHIC/EHIC covers state healthcare, it doesn’t extend to private medical facilities. For access to a wider range of medical options and potentially shorter waiting times, cheap travel insurance that includes private medical cover is worth considering.
Passport regulations for EU travel have also been updated. To ensure smooth passage, remember these key passport validity rules:
- 10-Year Passport Limit: Your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day you arrive in the EU.
- 3-Month Validity Rule: Your passport must have at least 3 months of validity remaining on the day you plan to leave the EU.
Navigating these passport rules can be confusing. Utilizing online passport checker tools can help you quickly determine if your passport meets the necessary requirements for your EU trip, ensuring you avoid any last-minute travel disruptions.
Furthermore, the duration of your stay in the EU has changed. UK citizens can now stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. For stays exceeding 90 days, a visa is mandatory. It’s important to note that travel insurance is often a legal requirement when applying for certain types of visas for longer stays.
Finding cheap travel insurance post-Brexit requires a bit more diligence, but it’s certainly achievable. Compare different providers, look for policies that match your specific travel needs, and consider factors like your age, destination, trip duration, and planned activities to secure the most affordable and comprehensive coverage. Don’t let Brexit deter your travel plans; with the right cheap travel insurance, you can explore Europe with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected against unexpected travel hiccups.
