Travel Insurance for France

Do I need travel insurance for France?

France is close to home, but a short distance does not mean a small bill if something goes wrong. Your GHIC or EHIC gives you access to the French state system, but in France you usually pay up front and are reimbursed for only part of the cost. It does not cover mountain rescue, private treatment, getting you home, or a cancelled holiday.

Travel insurance covers those gaps, from emergency medical costs and repatriation to cancellation and lost luggage, with a 24-hour assistance line if you need help.

Which area covers France?

France, including Corsica, is usually in Europe 1, the cheapest European area on many policies. If you are also visiting Spain, Switzerland or another Europe 2 country on the same trip, choose Europe 2 instead. Our FAQ on Europe 1 and Europe 2 has more. For a single trip, just choose France as your destination.

Skiing in France

The French Alps are the most popular ski destination for UK travellers, with resorts like Val Thorens, Tignes, Meribel and Chamonix. Standard travel insurance does not cover skiing or snowboarding, so add winter sports cover to your policy. It typically covers mountain rescue, ski equipment, lift passes and piste closure, none of which the GHIC will pay for. Rescue by helicopter from the slopes can cost thousands of euros.

Driving in France

Lots of UK travellers drive to France via the Channel Tunnel or a ferry. Remember that travel insurance does not include liability while driving abroad, so make sure your car insurance covers you in Europe, and carry the kit French law requires, such as a warning triangle and high-vis vests. If you are hiring a car, car hire excess insurance can cover the rental excess.

Ferry, rail and air disruption from strikes happens fairly often in France. Some policies cover delays or missed departures, so compare the travel disruption cover in your quote.

Single trip or annual cover?

A single trip policy is fine for one trip. But because France is so easy to reach, many people go several times a year for weekends, holidays and ski trips. If that is you, an annual multi-trip policy for Europe could cost less than buying cover each time, and you can add winter sports to it.

France travel insurance with medical conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, declare them in our online medical screening when you get a quote. Europe 1 is usually one of the cheaper areas to cover a medical condition for. You will see the price with your conditions included before you buy.

Activities in France

Cycling, hiking, canoeing on the Ardeche and surfing in Biarritz are all popular. Many activities are covered as standard on a Direct Travel policy, and some need adding. Check our list of sports and activities before you go.

Before you go

UK visitors can stay in France and the rest of the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Since the EU's Entry/Exit System started, you may need to give fingerprints and a photo at the border, which can add time at Dover, Folkestone and St Pancras. See our Europe travel insurance page for more on entry rules.

Our France country guide has more on getting around, climate and health, and our blog has ideas for romantic weekends in France.