Travel insurance: why do you need it before going on a trip?
- Lux-Assurances
- Jun 26
- 3 min read
Your plane tickets are booked, your suitcase is packed, your itinerary is planned... Have you thought about your travel insurance? Travel insurance is often overlooked, yet it's essential for a stress-free trip. In this article, we explain why taking out travel insurance is an essential precaution, what it covers and how it differs from the protection offered by your bank card.
What is travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a contract that protects you financially in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your travels abroad. It covers a wide range of risks, including:
Medical expenses abroad
Medical repatriation
Trip cancellation or interruption
Loss or theft of luggage
Civil liability abroad
This insurance can be taken out for a single trip or as an annual subscription for frequent travellers.
What does a good travel insurance policy cover?
Each policy differs depending on the insurer and the options chosen, but here are the most common types of cover:
1. Medical assistance and repatriation
In the event of an accident or illness abroad, the insurance covers medical expenses and hospitalisation, and organises your repatriation if necessary. These costs can quickly reach tens of thousands of euros in certain countries not covered by social security.
2. Trip cancellation
If you have to cancel your trip for a valid reason (illness, death of a relative, redundancy, etc.), the insurance will reimburse you for any costs already incurred (flights, hotels, activities).
3. Lost or stolen luggage
It compensates you in the event of loss, theft or damage to your personal belongings during transport or your stay.
4. Civil liability abroad
If you cause damage to a third party abroad, this cover takes care of the financial consequences.
Credit card vs. travel insurance: what are the differences?
Some credit cards (Visa Premier, Mastercard Gold, etc.) include travel insurance. However, this protection is often limited in terms of coverage, limits and conditions of activation. Common limitations of credit card insurance:
You must have paid for the trip with the card
Lower compensation limits
Medical coverage often insufficient outside Europe
Repatriation assistance not always comprehensive
Dedicated travel insurance offers more extensive, flexible coverage tailored to your profile and destination.
Is it mandatory to take out travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not always mandatory, but it is strongly recommended, especially for destinations outside the European Union. Some countries, such as China, Russia and Cuba, require proof of insurance in order to issue a visa.
Furthermore, as healthcare costs are very high in countries such as the United States, Canada and Japan, travelling without adequate cover could put your financial situation at risk.
Which travel insurance should you choose at Foyer?
There are two options available to you, depending on the type of traveller you are:
The ‘Travel’ module of Mozaïk home insurance
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Separate travel insurance (temporary or annual), to be chosen according to the frequency of your trips
At Foyer Lux-Assurances, we advise you and help you choose the package that best suits your needs and your budget.