What US tourists should know about European travel insurance in 2025

[EUROPE] As European travel continues to rebound in 2025, new regulations, evolving health protocols, and rising costs are prompting more U.S. travelers to consider travel insurance as an essential part of trip planning. From mandatory coverage for certain destinations to navigating policy options in a post-pandemic world, understanding travel insurance requirements has become critical for Americans visiting Europe this year.

Travel Insurance Becomes a Priority for Europe-Bound Americans

With over 15 million Americans expected to travel to Europe in 2025, travel insurance is no longer an optional add-on but a practical necessity. Several factors, including stricter entry requirements, health uncertainties, and unpredictable flight disruptions, have made coverage a key component of international travel.

According to a recent report by the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, travel insurance purchases for trips to Europe rose by 38% year-over-year in early 2025, reflecting growing awareness and concern over potential travel risks.

Key Reasons to Consider Travel Insurance for Europe in 2025

1. New Entry Requirements and Schengen Visa Rules

Although most U.S. travelers can still enter Schengen Area countries without a visa, the European Union’s long-anticipated ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is now in full effect as of January 2025. While ETIAS itself is not a visa, it requires U.S. travelers to register in advance, and proof of travel insurance may be required for certain categories of entry, especially for long stays or multi-country itineraries.

Some non-Schengen countries like Turkey and Montenegro now mandate travel insurance with minimum medical coverage for all foreign visitors.

2. Post-Pandemic Health Coverage Still Relevant

Although COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global emergency, some European countries continue to recommend or require proof of insurance that covers medical expenses related to infectious diseases, including potential quarantines. Policies offering comprehensive health coverage, including medical evacuation and hospitalization abroad, are strongly recommended.

“Medical costs overseas can be surprisingly high, and most U.S. health plans offer little or no coverage outside the country,” says Laura Adams, a travel insurance analyst with InsuranceQuotes. “A good policy can cover everything from emergency surgeries to repatriation.”

What Should Be Included in a 2025 Travel Insurance Policy?

Experts advise that travel insurance policies in 2025 should include the following:

Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Protects prepaid, non-refundable expenses if a trip is canceled due to illness, family emergencies, or other unforeseen events.

Medical and Emergency Evacuation: Should offer a minimum of $100,000 in medical coverage and include emergency transportation back to the U.S. if needed.

Baggage and Travel Delay: Covers lost or delayed baggage and unexpected delays due to weather, airline issues, or strikes.

COVID-19 and Epidemic Coverage: While not always standard, many insurers now offer add-ons or dedicated coverage for outbreaks and related disruptions.

Some premium plans also include “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage, which provides partial reimbursement if travelers back out for reasons not covered under standard policies—particularly useful in a volatile geopolitical or economic environment.

Comparing Providers and Costs in 2025

Travel insurance premiums vary based on trip cost, duration, destination, and traveler age. As of April 2025, average premiums for a two-week trip to Europe range from $150 to $300 per traveler, according to data from Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison platform.

Top-rated providers include:

• Allianz Global Assistance
• Travel Guard (AIG)
• World Nomads
• AXA Assistance USA
• Generali Global Assistance

Travelers are encouraged to use comparison tools and read policy fine print carefully to ensure the right coverage. In particular, look for exclusions related to pre-existing conditions, adventure sports, or civil unrest.

EU Emphasizes the Importance of Travel Insurance

The European Commission continues to advise all non-EU travelers to obtain comprehensive travel insurance, especially as climate-related disruptions—such as heatwaves, wildfires, and floods—have increasingly affected European destinations in recent summers.

In a statement earlier this year, the Commission noted:
"As travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, insurance is a vital safeguard for travelers and hosts alike, offering protection against growing environmental, health, and security risks."

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Protect Your Trip

With shifting regulations and the increasing cost of international travel, U.S. travelers heading to Europe in 2025 should treat travel insurance as an integral part of trip planning. While it adds to upfront costs, the potential savings and peace of mind far outweigh the expense in the event of an emergency or disruption.

By understanding what’s required, what’s recommended, and how to choose the right plan, Americans can travel more confidently and responsibly across the European continent.