Travel Insurance for Austria

Key takeaways

• Pre-existing medical conditions may result in higher premiums or require specialised policies

• Opting for a lower excess might increase the premium slightly, but it can be more manageable financially if an incident occurs

• Begin coverage from the day you book your trip (not the travel date) to protect against cancellations

Austria, with its stunning natural landscapes, historical attractions, and rich cultural tapestry of art and music, is a traveller's delight. Austria offers an exceptional experience. But before you immerse yourself in the wonders of this European gem, it's crucial to consider your travel insurance options. Let's dive into a comprehensive guide provided by MoneySuperMarket to ensure you fully enjoy your Austrian adventure.

Do I need travel insurance for Austria?

Travel insurance is an essential protection if you’re planning a holiday in Austria. So much can go wrong, and if you fall ill, have an accident, lose your baggage, or something is stolen while you’re on holiday, your travel insurance policy will cover you for the inevitable expense. Having travel insurance is a safety net that allows you to handle unexpected events, such as illness, accidents, lost luggage, or theft, without the stress of financial burden.

The benefits of travel insurance are numerous, especially when it comes to financial protection in case of emergencies that require cancelling or cutting short your trip. Knowing that you're covered allows you to relax and enjoy your holiday with confidence.

What type of travel insurance do you need for Austria?

Austria is included in European travel insurance policies. When you’re comparing travel insurance policies with MoneySuperMarket, your trip will fall into one of the following categories:

• One holiday to Austria only: If you are only taking one trip, select single-trip travel insurance and put Austria as your destination.

• One trip to Austria and other countries: If you are visiting other countries during the same trip, select multi-trip insurance and then pick each country you plan to visit as multiple destinations. If you are backpacking, select backpackers’ insurance.

• Several holidays throughout the year that include the USA, Canada, or the Caribbean: You might be able to save money by selecting an annual multi-trip travel insurance policy. If you plan to visit the USA, Canada, or a Caribbean country, you need to select a worldwide policy that covers these countries.

• Several holidays excluding the USA, Canada, or the Caribbean: An annual multi-trip policy with worldwide coverage excluding these countries may save money.

What should your Austrian travel insurance include?

When selecting a comprehensive travel insurance policy for Austria, ensure it includes the following key coverages:

• Medical expenses cover: Usually up to £5m, and while the new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is accepted in Austrian hospitals for Brits needing treatment, it only covers emergency healthcare and should not be a substitute for good travel cover.

• Repatriation cover: Cover for the cost of bringing you back to the UK, otherwise known as ‘repatriation’.

• Cancellation or curtailment cover: Cover for cancellation or curtailment of your holiday in case you need to return home earlier than planned or an emergency prevents you from going.

• Delay and missed departure cover: For situations such as a car breakdown that causes you to miss your flight.

• Baggage cover: Baggage cover helps if your belongings are lost or stolen. Include cover for expensive items like jewellery.

• Passport cover: Passport cover is crucial as replacing a lost or stolen passport abroad can be both complex and expensive.

• Personal liability cover: For damages or injuries you might accidentally cause to others.

Austrian travel insurance: exclusions and what to watch out for

Standard travel insurance policies often exclude certain scenarios. Be aware of the following typical policy exclusions:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition or you’ve had one in the past for which you’ve received advice or treatment, you may be charged a higher premium or need a special policy for pre-existing conditions.

• Unexpected incidents: Such as civil unrest, war, terrorism, and natural disasters are usually not covered.

• Alcohol-related accidents or injuries.

• High-risk sporting activities: Cover for accidents or injuries that happen during activities such as skiing and snowboarding, which require adventure or winter sports cover.

How much should my travel insurance excess be?

The insurance excess is the amount you pay before your insurer covers a claim. It's crucial to set an excess that is affordable in case you need to file a claim. Opting for a lower excess might increase the premium slightly, but it can be more manageable financially if an incident occurs.

When should my travel insurance policy start from?

It's recommended to start your travel insurance from the day you book your trip, not the date of travel. This ensures you're covered for any cancellations that might occur before your departure.

Compare travel insurance for Austria before you buy

The price for the same level of coverage can vary significantly between different insurers. Therefore, it's essential to compare various offers to ensure you're getting the best deal.

MoneySuperMarket’s comparison tool is designed to make this process easy. By answering a few key questions about your trip and the level of coverage you desire, you can quickly compare prices from leading travel insurers.

Embarking on an Austrian excursion promises to be an enriching experience. To safeguard your travels, equip yourself with the right travel insurance. With careful consideration and the help of MoneySuperMarket's resources, you can select a policy that offers comprehensive protection, allowing you to indulge in Austria's grandeur worry-free. Happy travels!