Do I need travel insurance for Europe if I have a GHIC?

The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get medically necessary state healthcare in EU countries at the same cost as a resident of that country. That can include emergency treatment, treatment for an illness or injury that can't wait until you're home, and routine care for some pre-existing conditions. It's also accepted in some countries outside the EU — the NHS website lists where it's valid.

Treatment is on the same terms as locals, which isn't always free. Some countries charge residents a fee or a share of the cost, and you'd pay that too. A valid UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) works in the same way until its expiry date.

A GHIC isn't travel insurance. It doesn't cover:

• Private medical treatment, including at private clinics in some tourist areas
• Medical repatriation — the cost of getting you back to the UK if you're ill or injured
• Mountain rescue in ski resorts, or other rescue costs
• Cancelling or cutting short your trip
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage, money or passports
• Travel delays, missed departures or personal liability
• Treatment on cruise ships, which usually isn't part of a state system

The biggest costs abroad tend to come from things a GHIC doesn't touch, such as an air ambulance home or a stay in a private hospital. Travel insurance can also refund pre-paid bookings if you have to cancel before you go for a covered reason, such as illness.

Having a GHIC can still help alongside a policy. Some insurers expect you to use a GHIC where it applies, and some reduce or waive the medical excess if you do. Check your policy wording for the details.

A GHIC is free from the official NHS website. Unofficial websites may charge a fee to apply on your behalf, but there's no charge if you apply directly. Each person travelling needs their own card, including children, and cards are valid for up to five years.

Insurers define 'Europe' differently. Some include non-EU countries such as Turkey or parts of North Africa, while others don't, so check that every country on your itinerary falls within the area covered.

Make sure the policy covers what you plan to do. Winter sports, hiring a moped and some adventure activities are often excluded unless you add specific cover. You'll also need to declare any pre-existing medical conditions — failing to do so can lead to a claim being refused. An annual multi-trip policy may suit you if you travel several times a year; check the maximum length allowed for each trip.