EHIC vs Travel Insurance: What Covers You Abroad and What Doesn't

When you travel outside your home country, your European Health Insurance Card, a free card that gives you access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Also known as EHIC, it’s not insurance—it’s a safety net for emergency care at reduced or no cost. But here’s the catch: it doesn’t cover everything. If you get hurt skiing in the Alps, EHIC might pay for your hospital stay, but it won’t cover your flight home, your lost luggage, or the private ambulance that takes you to a better clinic. That’s where travel insurance, a paid policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost bags, and more while traveling abroad. Also known as trip insurance, it fills the gaps EHIC leaves wide open.

Think of EHIC like a public hospital pass. It works in countries with universal healthcare systems, but only if you’re there temporarily. If you need a prescription, EHIC may cover the cost, but only at the local rate—no brand-name drugs unless they’re standard there. If you’re hospitalized and need to be flown back to India, EHIC won’t pay a rupee. Travel insurance, on the other hand, includes medical evacuation, repatriation, and even coverage for pre-existing conditions—if you declare them upfront. It also handles things EHIC never touches: missed flights, stolen passports, or a canceled hotel booking because you got sick. Many people assume EHIC is enough because it’s free. But in 2024, a single missed flight or emergency airlift can cost over ₹5 lakh. That’s not a risk most travelers can afford to take.

Here’s the real difference: EHIC is a right. Travel insurance is a choice. But that choice can mean the difference between a smooth recovery and a financial disaster. If you’re traveling within Europe, EHIC is useful—but never enough alone. If you’re going to Thailand, the U.S., or Australia, EHIC doesn’t work at all. Travel insurance works everywhere. And while some plans cost as little as ₹500 for a week, the peace of mind? Priceless. The posts below break down real cases: people who relied only on EHIC and ended up paying thousands, others who had full coverage and walked away with no bills. You’ll also find guides on how to read your policy, what to ask your insurer, and how to claim when things go wrong. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you book your next trip.