Travel Insurance Becomes Essential as Medical Costs Abroad Soar

Travelers planning overseas trips should consider purchasing travel insurance as soon as they book their trip, according to ABTA – The Travel Association. Data reveals that medical costs for uninsured travelers have significantly increased since 2019, underscoring the importance of comprehensive coverage.

Air ambulance costs, a critical factor for those who experience major accidents or illnesses while abroad, have doubled since 2019. An air ambulance flight from the European Union to the United Kingdom cost between €15,000 and 20,000 in 2019; by 2023, this cost had risen to between €25,000 and 30,000. For global flights, costs jumped from €35,000-40,000 to €75,000-85,000 during the same period, illustrating the soaring expenses.

These rising costs highlight the need for a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Although UK citizens can use the General Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to access state medical care in the EU, this does not cover air ambulance costs, leaving travelers potentially responsible for significant medical expenses. The UK government also has no obligation to cover these costs, making travel insurance a crucial safety net.

ABTA encourages travelers to take out travel insurance when they book their trip to ensure they are covered if they need to cancel for unforeseen reasons like illness. Additionally, travelers should ensure that any planned activities, such as winter sports, are covered by the policy, and disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to avoid invalidating their coverage.