EasyJet has issued essential safety advice for passengers ahead of their summer holidays, urging travellers to complete two crucial tasks before arriving at the airport. The low-cost carrier, in a bid to ensure a smooth and secure journey, has published guidance on its website under the section 'safety on your holiday'.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance Recommended
Firstly, easyJet strongly recommends that all passengers take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. The airline states: "We cannot stress enough how important it is to take out comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking, to cover you in the event that something stops you going on holiday and of course while you're away too." Passengers are advised to check that their policy covers any activities or sports they may participate in during their trip. The airline highlights that international healthcare costs can be significant, and insurance not only covers these expenses but also provides support to access the best care and arrange repatriation if needed.
EasyJet also suggests that travellers carry a copy of their policy and save the emergency assistance contact number in their mobile phone. The airline reminds passengers that a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) only entitles them to basic state medical care in participating countries and does not cover repatriation. GHIC applications can be made via the NHS website.
Share Travel Details with a Trusted Contact
Secondly, easyJet advises passengers to share their travel details with a trusted person. "Leave a copy of your travel details with your next of kin or an emergency contact," the airline recommends. This ensures that someone knows the traveller's itinerary and can be reached in case of an emergency.
Understanding GHIC and EHIC
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) allows holidaymakers to access necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) and some other countries on the same basis as a local resident. This may be free or require a payment equivalent to what a local resident would pay. The GHIC has replaced the existing EHIC, but travellers with a valid EHIC can continue to use it until its expiry date. Once expired, they must apply for a UK GHIC. The NHS notes that not all state healthcare outside the UK is free, and travellers may have to pay for treatment that would be free on the NHS if a local resident would be expected to pay in the country they are visiting.
