Best Travel Insurance for Europe 2026: Schengen Visa & UK Coverage
Travel insurance for Europe requires specific attention to Schengen visa requirements (€30,000 minimum medical coverage, valid throughout the Schengen Area) and European Union regulations. For non-EU travelers, a Schengen-compliant policy is mandatory for visa applications.
Top Europe Travel Insurance Plans
| Provider | Plan | Medical Coverage | Schengen Compliant | Price (14 days) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AXA | Schengen Europe | €100K | ✅ Yes | $55 | Budget-friendly |
| Allianz | OneTrip Premier | $50K | ✅ Yes | $89 | Overall best |
| World Nomads | Standard | $100K | ✅ Yes | $85 | Flexible travelers |
| Europ Assistance | Schengen Gold | €200K | ✅ Yes | $70 | Comprehensive |
| Generali | Europe Travel | €150K | ✅ Yes | $65 | Best value |
| Berkshire Hathaway | Luxury Care | $500K | ✅ Yes | $145 | Premium travelers |
Schengen Visa Requirements
To obtain a Schengen visa, your travel insurance must meet these requirements:
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Medical coverage | €30,000 minimum |
| Geographic coverage | All Schengen states (27 countries) |
| Duration | Valid for entire stay |
| Repatriation | Included (emergency return) |
| Deductible | Must be $0 (no deductible) |
Important: Your insurance must be valid in all 27 Schengen countries — not just the country you are visiting. Most standard travel insurance plans meet this requirement, but verify before purchasing.
Best Plans by Travel Type
Budget Travelers (under $60)
AXA Schengen Europe offers €100K medical coverage for $55 for 14 days — the cheapest Schengen-compliant policy from a reputable provider.
Standard Travelers ($60–$100)
Allianz OneTrip Premier at $89 offers $50K medical, $250K evacuation, and Schengen compliance — the best balance of coverage and cost.
Luxury Travelers ($100+)
Berkshire Hathaway Luxury Care at $145 offers $500K medical, $1M evacuation, and CFAR coverage — the most comprehensive policy for high-value trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need travel insurance for Europe?
For Schengen visa applicants, yes — it is mandatory. For UK travel, it is strongly recommended.
What is the minimum coverage for a Schengen visa?
€30,000 (approximately $33,000) in medical coverage with $0 deductible.
Does the UK require travel insurance?
The UK does not require travel insurance for entry, but medical costs are high — a hospital visit can cost £500+.
Is European medical coverage enough?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers necessary medical care in EU countries at reduced cost or free — but it is not a substitute for travel insurance.
Last updated: March 2026. Verify Schengen visa requirements with your embassy before travel.