Does GHIC replace travel insurance?
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In short: No. GHIC covers medically necessary state treatment in participating countries — not private hospitals, repatriation, cancelled trips, lost baggage or liability. Travel insurance fills those gaps.
Last reviewed:
Reviewed by Kaiser Khan
Many insurers reduce medical excess if you hold a valid GHIC.
USA, Canada and most non-European destinations need full travel insurance — GHIC does not apply. TravelShifu: [GHIC vs travel insurance](travelshifu.com/guides/ghic-travel-insurance-europe).
See our how to buy travel insurance guide.
Primary source: nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad
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