Spain Travel Insurance

Spain is a destination that keeps Brits coming back time and time again. Whether you've been before, or it's your first visit, Spain has something for everyone. Picture endless summer days, vibrant culture and incredible cuisine. From couples looking to simply lay in the sun or families seeking adventure, you're sure to enjoy your stay.

Whilst it's easy to focus on planning which beaches to visit or finding the best spots for tapas and a vino, one essential step shouldn't be overlooked - arranging reliable travel insurance. We want to believe nothing will go wrong on holiday, however, the reality is that something unexpected could happen. Having the right cover in place means you can set off knowing you're prepared for whatever comes your way.

Holiday Extras travel insurance policies for Spain come with protection for things like emergency medical care, cancellations and lost baggage. Our bronze, silver and gold cover levels give you the flexibility to choose the protection that suits your trip, so you can travel with confidence.

Do I need travel insurance for Spain?

While it's not a legal requirement to enter Spain, it's a good idea to get reliable travel insurance for any trip abroad. Without travel insurance, you could be left to front expensive medical costs if something goes wrong, and you needed treatment.

If you have a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card), this could cover certain medical costs; however, this does not cover medical repatriation or mountain rescue. Travel insurance, on the other hand, provides cover for repatriation and also protects you against issues such as lost baggage, unexpected illness, and flight delays.

If you have a medical condition, this can increase the chances of having to claim. For more information on this, take a look at our page dedicated to Holiday Insurance with Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.

Is healthcare free in Spain for UK citizens?

Since Brexit, the healthcare that UK citizens can access when visiting Spain has changed. You must have the correct documentation and insurance, if you don't, you could end up paying out-of-pocket.

With a GHIC, you can get medically necessary treatment either free or at a reduced cost. For more information on GHIC's, take a look at our guide explaining what a GHIC is.

Since access to free healthcare is not guaranteed, it's essential to take out a comprehensive insurance policy before you travel.

Does travel insurance for Spain include activities?

From hiking in the Pyrenees to windsurfing in Fuerteventura, Spain hosts a whole range of exciting activities. With so much on offer, it's important to be sure your travel insurance covers the adventures you've got planned. Some activities are covered as standard, but other higher risk activities might need an add-on or approval from the underwriter.

Winter Sports

When you think of Spain, sun and beaches might come to mind first, but Spain is also home to impressive ski resorts in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada. If you're planning to hit the slopes, our Winter Sports add-on can give you the extra protection you'll need for skiing, snowboarding, and other snowy activities.

Water sports

From windsurfing in Tarifa to scuba diving in the Balearic Islands, Spain is a hotspot for water lovers. Some water sports are covered as standard, but depending on the level of risk, certain activities may require the Extended Risk add-on.

Extended Risk add-on

Taking your adventures up a notch? High-risk activities such as abseiling or sea kayaking may fall under our Extended Risk add-on. The extended risk add-on provides cover for higher-risk activities and can be selected at the 'add-on stage' before payment.

Use our handy activity checker to see whether your chosen activity or sport is covered as standard, or if you'll need to add extra cover.

Top tips for travelling to Spain

Healthcare abroad can be expensive, and a small accident could end up costing thousands. With protection for things like cancellation, lost baggage and flight delays too, getting a good travel insurance policy is a must.

Due to popularity, it's best to book tickets for attractions like the Alhambra, which can sell out well in advance - even in the off-peak season!

Many shops and cafés will close for a few hours in the afternoon for siesta, especially in quieter towns. Why not live like a local and have an afternoon kip? Evenings are typically later too, with dinner starting at 9pm. You'll often find families with kids out playing till at least 11pm.

Look out for blackboards at restaurants which will often show the venues 'menu del dia'. The 'menu del dia' is the set menu for the day often compromising of multiple courses of local Spanish dishes. This is a great way to sample authentic food at a great price.

Tips are not expected as a standard in Spain. Some restaurants may include a tip in the bill, however, if the service is brilliant then leaving a small tip really goes a long way. It's best to carry cash for tips in Spain as card tipping is not usually an option.

Learning even just a few common phrases can help you connect and communicate with locals. This will come in handy in areas where English is not widely spoken.

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