Summer holidays are approaching: How to protect yourself on holiday!

Summer holidays are approaching: How to protect yourself on holiday!

On July 17, 2025, the summer holidays in Berlin and Brandenburg are just around the corner. Many people are planning their trips and vacations, which is not unusual at this time of year. However, there is a risk of becoming ill before the start of the trip or at the holiday destination, which can sometimes lead to unexpected financial burdens. In this situation, it is crucial to be informed about the right insurance. Hermann-Josef Tenhagen, editor-in-chief of Finanztip.de, offers valuable advice on useful insurance and important aspects when taking out insurance to protect travelers from financial risks. Radio one In this context, reports on the need for appropriate insurance coverage.

One of the central products is international travel health insurance. This offers protection in the event of medical emergencies abroad and its conditions and costs vary greatly. Important benefits of this insurance include reimbursement of costs for outpatient medical treatment, inpatient medical treatment such as operations, and medically necessary repatriation within the country. When traveling with children under 18, the stay of an accompanying person in the hospital is also covered. In addition, care should be taken to ensure that insurance coverage is valid worldwide and that there is free choice of doctor. A basic understanding of cost responsibility is also important: A visit to the doctor abroad usually has to be paid for immediately, although the original invoice must be kept until the insurance covers the costs. Consumer advice center points out that contact with the health insurer is essential during hospital stays.

Important aspects of insurance

However, international travel health insurance excludes certain benefits, such as treatments that were the reason for the trip or foreseeable illnesses. Intentional illnesses, illnesses as a result of war or civil unrest as well as medical costs are not covered. Pregnant women in particular should be aware that pregnancy problems (except acute complications) are not insured.

There are different types of policies for travelers: short-term policies, which are valid for the duration of a trip, and annual policies, which offer protection for any number of trips per year. The prices for annual contracts are usually moderate; for individuals, the annual premium is usually around 10 euros, while family contracts can be more expensive.

Additional protection

In addition to health insurance for foreign travel, travel cancellation insurance and trip interruption insurance are also important. They cover cancellation costs, rebooking costs and subsequent travel costs, with insured reasons for cancellation including death or serious illness. The amount of the contribution depends on the travel price, scope of services and age of the insured person.

When traveling with your own vehicle, motor vehicle liability insurance and car protection letters are also recommended to ensure protection in Europe and certain non-European areas. Holidaymakers should also consider a Mallorca clause or a traveler policy when renting a car in order to raise the insurance cover to German levels. All-round, worry-free packages, on the other hand, are often perceived as unnecessary; It would be better to meaningfully supplement existing insurance policies.

Overall, it is important to find out about the right insurance in good time and evaluate your personal needs in order to avoid unpleasant surprises during your vacation.