- The best international travel insurance plans
- What exactly is international travel insurance?
- The price of international travel insurance
- What international travel insurance covers
- The conditions of international travel insurance
- Why take out international travel insurance?
- How to choose the right international travel insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover international travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
international travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: International travel insurance covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage when travelling outside Ireland.
2. Price: For a week in Europe, expect to pay between €15 and €45 for standard travel insurance.
3. Coverage: Coverage includes medical emergencies and cancellations, but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards, VHI, or Laya offer limited cover, often excluding cancellation and having low medical expense caps.
5. Tips: Declare all pre-existing conditions and check coverage limits, especially for destinations like the USA or Canada.
6. Other useful info: Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not a substitute for insurance; it won't cover repatriation.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Ireland, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best international travel insurance.
The best international travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best international travel insurance plans available for residents of Ireland in 2025. These policies stand out due to their high coverage limits, low deductibles and flexible terms, offering reliable protection for all types of trips.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.0 M € | 0 € | Covers pre-existing medical conditions.Includes emergency dental treatment.Flexible options for long stays.24/7 multilingual assistance. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.0 M € | 0 € | Sports and adventure activity cover.Fast medical claims settlement.24/7 medical helpline.No additional charge for age up to 70. |
| Tourist Card | 0.5 M € | 30 €, 60 € for USA/Canada | Digital claim submission.Trip cancellation coverage.Baggage protection included.Product suited for families. |
| World Travel | 0.7 M € (USA/Canada), 0.3 M € (others) | 50 € per claim | Quarantine hotel costs covered.Psychological assistance abroad.Help with replacing lost passports.Political evacuation benefit. |
| Globe Partner | 0.3 M € | 0 € | Competitive rates for students.Simple online enrolment.No paper documents needed.Claims tracked by email. |
| Globe Traveller | 0.5 M € | 0 € | Suitable for trips up to 12 months.No premium increase after age 60.Multiple language client support.Includes return ticket cover. |
The best international travel insurance depends on your personal situation. Use HelloSafe’s comparison tool to find your ideal policy and subscribe online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat exactly is international travel insurance?
International travel insurance is protection designed for Irish residents travelling outside of Ireland, offering cover for medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and other travel-related incidents abroad.
It applies to any destination worldwide and addresses higher expenses that may arise compared to domestic trips.
This product is sometimes known as overseas, global, or worldwide travel insurance.
International travel insurance is distinct from domestic policies, as it covers risks unique to journeys beyond Ireland’s borders and typically comes with higher coverage limits.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out international travel insurance is especially important if you live in Ireland:
- When travelling outside the EU, where your EHIC is not valid.
- If visiting countries with high medical costs, like the USA.
- For expensive or non-refundable trips, including flights and accommodation.
- If you have any pre-existing medical condition, regardless of your age.
- When participating in adventure sports like skiing, diving, or hiking.
- If carrying valuable items such as cameras or electronic devices.
- For trips to remote locations where medical evacuation may be required.
The price of international travel insurance
On average, international travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| City break in Paris, France (3 days) | €400 | €12 to €25 |
| Summer holiday in Spain (2 weeks) | €1,300 | €40 to €80 |
| Business trip to New York, USA (1 week) | €2,000 | €65 to €120 |
| Backpacking across Southeast Asia (1 month) | €2,500 | €80 to €160 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your international travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the stay, the higher the price.
- destination: travel to countries with high medical costs, such as the United States or Japan, increases the premium.
- traveller’s age: older travellers may pay more.
- level of coverage: a comprehensive plan with higher limits and lower excess will cost more than a basic policy.
- extra coverage: adding cover for valuable items, adventure sports, or pre-existing medical conditions increases the premium.
What international travel insurance covers
International travel insurance is designed to cover Irish residents when travelling outside Ireland for business, holiday, or study.
It does not apply to trips within the country and involves higher limits to account for the expensive risks abroad.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of pre-paid costs if you must cancel for a covered reason before departure. | We recommend at least €1,500 cover with a deductible under €50. Illness, visa refusal, and change of mind are often excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Pays for extra transport if you miss your flight due to unforeseen delays. | Choose a €250 minimum and no deductible. No cover if you are late or if documents for delay confirmation are missing. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged. | At least €1,000 cover is best and a deductible below €30. Unattended or fragile items and electronics often excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Fixed payment if your transport is delayed for hours. | Look for €100+ after 4 hours of delay. Deductibles are not common. Delays under 4 hours or without proof are rarely covered. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care if you fall ill or have an accident on your trip. | €1.5M is a minimum. A deductible below €50 is best. Routine treatments, chronic conditions, and cosmetic care are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Organises and covers transport to Ireland if your health urgently requires it. | Cover should be unlimited and coordinated by the insurer. Repatriation requests not validated by a doctor may be refused. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Urgent dental treatment for sudden pain or accidents. | Minimum €200 cover and deductible up to €30 only. Planned or cosmetic dental care always excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Pays costs if you injure someone or damage their property during your trip. | €1M minimum cover, deductible under €100 advised. No cover for family damage or harm to rented items. |
| 🧳 Luggage delay | Refund for essentials if your bag does not arrive for 24 hours or more. | €150 after 24h delay is recommended. No common deductible. Return trip delays or lack of proof mean claims may be denied. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees and bail if facing legal issues while travelling. | Look for €3,000 for legal fees and €7,500 for bail. Incidents involving drugs, alcohol, or crime are not covered. |
Illness, visa refusal, and change of mind are often excluded.
No cover if you are late or if documents for delay confirmation are missing.
Unattended or fragile items and electronics often excluded.
Delays under 4 hours or without proof are rarely covered.
Routine treatments, chronic conditions, and cosmetic care are excluded.
Repatriation requests not validated by a doctor may be refused.
Planned or cosmetic dental care always excluded.
No cover for family damage or harm to rented items.
Return trip delays or lack of proof mean claims may be denied.
Incidents involving drugs, alcohol, or crime are not covered.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
Always compare the guarantees and reimbursement limits of several international travel insurance offers on HelloSafe to make the best choice for your needs.
The conditions of international travel insurance
To ensure your international travel insurance is valid during your trip, several key conditions are commonly required for Irish travellers.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy the policy before leaving Ireland, not after arriving at your destination.
- Residency status: you must be a legal resident of Ireland at the time you purchase the insurance.
- Policy duration: the policy must fully cover the entire duration of each trip abroad.
- Destination compliance: coverage does not apply if you travel to countries under official Irish government travel restrictions.
- Premium payment: the full premium must be paid before your departure for the policy to begin.
- Incident notification: you need to notify the insurer promptly in case of accident, illness, or loss, usually within the required timeframe.
- Supporting documents: claims require documented evidence, such as a medical report, police declaration, or official receipt.
- Purpose of travel: coverage is usually for leisure or business trips, not for permanent relocation or migration.
Watch out!
A common mistake is assuming stable pre-existing conditions are automatically covered. You must declare all medical history to your insurer when purchasing your policy. Non-disclosure can void your cover, leaving you liable for huge medical bills abroad. Always be upfront to ensure you're properly protected.
Why take out international travel insurance?
Unexpected medical or travel incidents abroad can result in significant expenses well beyond the cost of your trip, especially outside Ireland or the EU.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, depending on policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to 100%, usually if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100%, depending on policy limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually 100%, up to the maximum stated |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial reimbursement, sometimes up to 100% |
- Europe: €200 to €400
- North America: €800 to €1,200
- Asia: €100 to €300
- Europe: €15,000 to €25,000
- North America: €50,000 to €80,000
- Asia: €20,000 to €35,000
- Europe: €8,000 to €15,000
- North America: €25,000 to €40,000
- Asia: €3,000 to €8,000
- Europe: €200 to €400
- North America: €1,000 to €1,500
- Asia: €100 to €200
- Europe: €150 to €350
- North America: €800 to €1,200
- Asia: €80 to €180
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Besides medical costs, international travel insurance typically protects you against other significant risks like cancellation, interruption, lost baggage, civil liability abroad, and emergency assistance for repatriation or legal issues throughout your travels.
Good to know
Your EHIC won't cover repatriation, and a US hospital stay can cost a fortune. Protect yourself from massive medical bills and travel disruption. A dedicated policy from a provider like Chapka ensures you have comprehensive cover and 24/7 assistance, wherever you go.
How to choose the right international travel insurance
Coverage amounts, reimbursement rules, and contract terms for international travel insurance can differ widely. Comparing each policy and its guarantees ensures you are protected according to your travel plans and actual risks.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Sets the maximum amount payable for your medical or travel claims abroad. | Select policies with at least €500,000 for non-European trips to avoid insufficient coverage. |
| 📉 Deductible | The amount you must pay before the insurer reimburses the rest. | Look for contracts that offer low or zero deductible for medical emergencies. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Policy wording lists exclusions, waiting periods, or claim steps that can affect protection. | Always check for regional exclusions or delays before emergency cover applies. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age can affect eligibility, coverage limits, or premium costs. | Verify if your age group has no surcharges or exclusions before you buy. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Most policies limit individual trips or total covered days. | For months-long trips, pick extended stay or annual cover that suits your plans. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Not all insurers cover every country, or some destinations may cost much more. | Double-check that your full itinerary is covered, especially if visiting several continents. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Bank card, health, or work insurance sometimes fails to meet international travel needs. | Compare all benefits and buy dedicated international cover where gaps exist. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure sports, hiking, or certain work trips may be excluded by basic travel insurance. | State all high-risk or sporting activities to avoid denied claims later. |
| 🔍 Offer comparison | Coverage, price, and service differ between insurers, especially for claims abroad. | Use a comparison tool to find the best policy for features and price every time. |
Do my current insurance policies cover international travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, like credit card insurance or the Irish public health system, can offer you a international travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | International travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (HSE) | Almost Never | Emergency medical within EU with EHIC, hospital costs, no cover outside EU, no repatriation. No baggage, trip cancellation, personal liability, or worldwide cover for medical or repatriation. | Travel insurance provides up to €10,000,000 for medical emergencies abroad, plus cancellation, baggage, and personal liability. |
| European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) | Almost Never | Medical care in public hospitals within EEA/Switzerland, no private care, no repatriation, no non-medical benefits. No baggage, trip cancellation, legal costs, worldwide protection, or private hospital cover. | Travel insurance offers cover up to €10,000,000 including private hospitals, repatriation, cancellation, lost baggage, and more. |
| Private health insurance (VHI Healthcare, Laya Healthcare) | Limited Coverage | Medical emergencies abroad up to €50,000-€65,000, limited worldwide, no non-medical cover, no repatriation. No cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, or extended worldwide medical and legal protection. | Travel insurance can cover up to €10,000,000 medical plus cancellation, baggage, repatriation, legal costs, and personal liability. |
| Classic credit card (AIB Visa Classic, Bank of Ireland Mastercard Standard) | Never | Minimal or no cover, might offer low limited medical, almost never repatriation, no non-medical benefits. No trip cancellation, baggage, liability, delay, legal or medical repatriation protection. | Travel insurance guarantees up to €10,000,000 medical, and includes repatriation, cancellation, liability and baggage worldwide. |
| Premium credit card (AIB Platinum, Ulster Bank Platinum) | Limited Coverage | Medical up to €500,000-€1,000,000, basic baggage €1,500, no cancellation, limited accident or legal expenses. No full cancellation, limited legal, liability, or adventure sport coverage, and usually a trip duration cap. | Travel insurance offers up to €10,000,000 medical, high baggage/cancellation, legal, full repatriation and long trip cover. |
No baggage, trip cancellation, personal liability, or worldwide cover for medical or repatriation.
No baggage, trip cancellation, legal costs, worldwide protection, or private hospital cover.
No cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, or extended worldwide medical and legal protection.
No trip cancellation, baggage, liability, delay, legal or medical repatriation protection.
No full cancellation, limited legal, liability, or adventure sport coverage, and usually a trip duration cap.
Expert advice
Be aware that situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness are often excluded from bank card and health insurance policies. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for entry to some countries, including those requiring a visa, such as for Schengen states or Russia. For many destinations, it is not legally required, but it is always strongly recommended. For example, if you travel to the United States, hospital costs can reach tens of thousands of euros, so being uninsured could create a serious financial burden.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
You should purchase international travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally just after booking flights or accommodations. This ensures you are protected from the outset for unexpected events like cancellation. Early purchase also provides maximum value, as you receive coverage before and during your entire trip.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
1/ Compare different international travel insurance options using a platform like HelloSafe’s comparison tool.2/ Check all guarantees and exclusions for conditions specific to international travel.3/ Purchase your chosen policy online in just a few clicks.4/ Receive your international travel insurance certificate by email, ready for border checks or visa applications.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking?
Yes, it is possible to purchase international travel insurance after booking your flights or accommodation. However, coverage for trip cancellation will only apply for unexpected events occurring after you purchased the policy. For maximum security, consider buying insurance at the time of booking.
How do I make a claim on international travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance service or claims department as soon as possible. Submit required documentation such as your insurance certificate, proof of payment, and relevant receipts or medical reports. Most insurers now accept online claims, making the process faster and more convenient.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19 related events?
Most modern international travel insurance policies now include COVID-19 cover as standard, but always check the details before purchase. Coverage often includes overseas medical treatment, quarantine expenses, and trip cancellation if you test positive before departure. Review the conditions for exclusions or limits.
Can I extend my international travel insurance while abroad?
Many insurers allow you to extend your international travel insurance as long as your policy has not already expired. Contact your insurer before the end of your coverage period to request an extension. It is best to check extension rules and possible fees before traveling, especially for long-term stays.
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for entry to some countries, including those requiring a visa, such as for Schengen states or Russia. For many destinations, it is not legally required, but it is always strongly recommended. For example, if you travel to the United States, hospital costs can reach tens of thousands of euros, so being uninsured could create a serious financial burden.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
You should purchase international travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally just after booking flights or accommodations. This ensures you are protected from the outset for unexpected events like cancellation. Early purchase also provides maximum value, as you receive coverage before and during your entire trip.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
1/ Compare different international travel insurance options using a platform like HelloSafe’s comparison tool.2/ Check all guarantees and exclusions for conditions specific to international travel.3/ Purchase your chosen policy online in just a few clicks.4/ Receive your international travel insurance certificate by email, ready for border checks or visa applications.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking?
Yes, it is possible to purchase international travel insurance after booking your flights or accommodation. However, coverage for trip cancellation will only apply for unexpected events occurring after you purchased the policy. For maximum security, consider buying insurance at the time of booking.
How do I make a claim on international travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance service or claims department as soon as possible. Submit required documentation such as your insurance certificate, proof of payment, and relevant receipts or medical reports. Most insurers now accept online claims, making the process faster and more convenient.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19 related events?
Most modern international travel insurance policies now include COVID-19 cover as standard, but always check the details before purchase. Coverage often includes overseas medical treatment, quarantine expenses, and trip cancellation if you test positive before departure. Review the conditions for exclusions or limits.
Can I extend my international travel insurance while abroad?
Many insurers allow you to extend your international travel insurance as long as your policy has not already expired. Contact your insurer before the end of your coverage period to request an extension. It is best to check extension rules and possible fees before traveling, especially for long-term stays.
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