Travel Insurance For France

But while it’s an incredible country to explore, things can still go wrong. You’re a long way from Australia, and not everyone speaks English, so it’s important to have suitable travel insurance to enjoy peace of mind on your trip.

Fabulous French experiences

Whether you’re a culture vulture, a wine aficionado, or an adrenaline junkie, France can provide the ultimate holiday destination for all types of travellers. Here’s just a few ideas to plan your dream French vacation:

• Parisian culture: There’s no end of things to do in Paris – you’ll run out of time before you run out of places to see. There are the classics such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and so much more. But Paris’s tourist hotspots are also hotbeds of petty crime, being frequented by pickpockets. Travel insurance is essential for enjoying the city and being prepared for any unplanned mishaps.
• Adventures in the Alps: Whether you’re a powder snow-chaser wanting to ski or snowboard the Alps in winter, or keen on hiking or climbing Chamonix’s slopes in the warmer months, France is a mountain-lovers dream destination. Take care though, as those slopes are dangerous and travel insurance could be beneficial in case you injure yourself. Make sure you’ve got the appropriate cover for any activities you have planned, as a basic policy may exclude some adventure sports like skiing.
• Wine and dine: When lots of people think of France, two things are the first to come to mind – indulgent food and incredible wine. Sancerre, Burgundy, Champagne, and Bordeaux are all legendary wine regions with strong food cultures to match. But remember to take care when enjoying your wine, as travel insurance is usually invalidated for alcohol related incidents.
• Laze on the Cote d’Azur: Take in the French Riviera exploring St. Tropez, Nice, Cannes and more. Whether you choose to explore on foot, by road, or even by sailboat, there’s plenty to see. Remember, if you’re hiring a vehicle, be it a car, moped or a boat, make sure to check the details of what your travel insurance policy will and won’t cover you for, and any licensing restrictions.

Potential problems in France

As France is so popular with tourists, it’s prone to pick-pocketing, scams, petty thefts and bag-snatching,²https://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/europe/western/pages/france.aspx#safety_and_security especially on public transport and in crowded areas. The Australian government recommends travellers to France exercise a high degree of caution, due to the risk of civil disturbance and terrorist acts.³https://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/europe/western/pages/france.aspx#safety_and_security

What can travel insurance cover in France?

Firstly, there’s always the risk of your luggage going missing! Australia doesn’t have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with France,⁴https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/medicare/reciprocal-health-care-agreements/australians/medical-care-when-you-travel-another-country so the medical part of your travel insurance could be beneficial. Remember, even healthy people can get sick and accidents happen, so consider whether travel insurance is worthwhile for you. 

Medical problems

A typical policy can cover the costs of medical treatment, ambulance transportation, dental costs and repatriation flights if necessary. You could also look for a policy that offers in-hospital cash.

Personal liability

If you injure someone or damage property while you’re in France then a policy could provide cover.

Cancellation fees and lost deposits

If you have to cancel or rearrange all or any part of your trip, then you may lose your deposit or have to pay a cancellation fee. This cover could reimburse you.

Lost or delayed luggage

If your luggage is lost or delayed then you’ll be covered and so able to buy replacement clothes, toiletries and anything else that was lost.

Lost or stolen possessions

If you lose your luggage during your time in France then you could be reimbursed for the costs of replacing your goods.

Travel disruptions and cancellations

Disrupted travel means unexpected expenses like meals and hotel rooms, so if you’re stuck for a few days, you could be reimbursed.

Lost or stolen passports

If you have to replace passports or other travel documents then this could be covered.

Rental vehicle excess

If you get into a crash with your rental car, then you could be covered against the rental company’s insurance excess payment.

Need travel insurance before heading on your holiday to France?

We understand it can be frustrating finding suitable travel insurance. So start comparing policies the easy way with iSelect.

Written by

iSelect Editorial Team

Writer

The iSelect Editorial Team is comprised of a bunch of seasoned writers, editors, industry professionals and data analysts who are dedicated to helping Aussies improve their financial literacy.