The direct answer
The right policy matches the trip and traveller. Medical and repatriation limits matter most when care abroad could be expensive. Declare requested medical information accurately and check whether destinations, activities and disruption risks are covered. [1]
Start with the largest risks
Check emergency medical treatment, repatriation and 24-hour assistance. An EHIC or GHIC can help with necessary state healthcare in participating countries, but it is not a replacement for insurance and does not cover every cost or repatriation. [1]
Read definitions and exclusions
Check cancellation reasons, travel disruption, baggage limits, valuables, alcohol exclusions, unattended-property rules, excesses and activity restrictions. Annual cover may limit individual trip length. A cheap premium can hide a narrow policy. [2]
Buy and claim carefully
Consider buying when the trip is booked so eligible pre-travel events can be covered from the policy start. Keep policy details and assistance numbers. Contact the insurer promptly, follow its process and retain medical reports, police reports and receipts. [3]
What to do now
- Match cover to destination, health and activities.
- Compare limits, exclusions and excesses.
- Verify the insurer or intermediary on the Central Bank register.
- Carry the assistance details and keep evidence.
Primary sources
Claims and service details were checked against these official sources on 2026-07-11. Follow the source for the latest operational detail.
- Competition and Consumer Protection Commission: Travel insurance Accessed 2026-07-11
- Central Bank of Ireland: Registers Accessed 2026-07-11
- Department of Foreign Affairs: Travel advice and travel insurance Accessed 2026-07-11
- Health Service Executive: European Health Insurance Card Accessed 2026-07-11
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Editorial note
Publisher: Around.ie Editorial. This page provides general information, not individual professional advice. Material changes trigger an earlier review. Corrections create a new reviewed version.