Peace of Mind in Paris and Beyond
Traveling to France
Whether you’re just passing through Paris as part of a broader European vacation or are spending weeks at a time indulging in everything the culture has to offer, it’s easy to fall in love with France.
As Europe’s second-most populous country and with a multicultural citizenry (many of whom speak at least some English), France is an easy and comfortable place for Americans to visit. You won’t need a visa, just your passport and your travel insurance. You’ll also want to bring along plenty of Euros (the currency in France) if high-fashion shopping and fine dining are on your to-do list.
Like the majority of Western Europe, France is a generally safe country for tourists. Of course, you’ll want to watch out for pesky pick-pocketers in crowded tourist areas. Replacing a passport in Paris is never a good way to spend your vacation. A longstanding, stable government contributes to France’s reputation as a safe country to visit, but there has been some political unrest in the last few years. Keep an ear out for travel advisories and avoid any protests, large crowds, or demonstrations.
While your trip will undoubtedly be full of sparkling Eiffel Tower pictures, French wines, and the obligatory visit to the Louvre, travel insurance can ensure that if something unexpected happens, you’ll be protected.
Is travel insurance required for a trip to France?
Travel insurance isn’t required for Americans visiting France. However, prudent, experienced travelers always purchase travel insurance, especially when traveling internationally. Information on insurance requirements can change quickly, so we suggest you check the US State Department website for the most up-to-date information.
What type of travel insurance is best for France?
Look for a policy that covers you when the unexpected happens. For example, your US health insurance policy probably won’t cover you when you’re out of the country, so you may want to consider travel medical expense coverage
Does my personal health insurance cover me when I’m in France?
The short answer is “it depends.” You should check with your health insurer before you depart, as some may cover international travel, but many do nott. Even if you are covered, be aware that you generally need to pay out of pocket and then seek reimbursement when you return home. Other considerations include:
- An emergency medical evacuation can easily cost $100,000 or more. Travel insurance generally pays this cost up front, and can protect you against a huge bill later.
- For those on US Medicare, be aware that Medicare does not cover you outside the US.
- Don’t expect the State Department to come to your rescue — from their website: “We do not pay medical bills. Payment of hospital and other expenses is the patient’s responsibility.”
How much does travel insurance for France cost?
Based on factors such as your age, trip cost and trip length, the cost can range from 4-8% of your total trip cost, or more if you select options such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage.
Is France safe for travelers?
France is widely considered to be a safe country to visit, and it’s long been a popular vacation destination for American travelers in Europe. However, like any place you visit, it’s important to exercise caution and be prepared for the unexpected. Petty crimes are common in large cities and crowded areas, with tourists sadly being an easy target. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and be aware of your surroundings.
Do I need separate car insurance if I rent a car in France?
Your US auto insurance policy likely does not cover you for rentals outside the US, but you should check with your insurance company before departing. Note that the damage waiver offered by the rental company can be very expensive. Many travel insurance plans offer rental vehicle damage coverage that can be less expensive than what is offered by the rental agency.
