Redpoint Destinations

Spain

Travel Insurance for Spain

The Essential Guide to Your Next Journey

Prepare for Your Spain Trip With Redpoint

From beaches and tapas to incredible architecture and long afternoon siestas, Spanish culture is full of unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're visiting one of Spain's unique, history-rich cities, like Madrid, Barcelona, or Seville, or heading to the Balearic Islands, Ibiza, or Fuerteventura, in the Canary Islands, for the jaw-dropping coastlines, there are so many ways to have an incredible trip to Spain.

But no matter your destination, you'll need to think about travel insurance. Spain is generally regarded as a safe country, but travel insurance is still needed to protect your non-refundable expenses and reimburse you for medical treatment if something goes wrong during your trip.

Health & Safety in Spain

International travelers to Spain can generally expect a safe and pleasant trip. It’s a country where rates for crime — and especially violent crime — are low and people have a relaxed and laid-back attitude toward life. There are no infectious-disease concerns in Spain, nor are there vaccination requirements.

As with all popular tourist destinations, though, visitors to Spain are sometimes the targets of petty crime or theft. To avoid making yourself a target, don’t carry expensive, flashy items or lots of cash.

There’s also been a rise in anti-tourism sentiment in recent years, which has resulted in protests in some heavily touristed areas, like Barcelona. These demonstrations have remained peaceful and nonviolent and can easily be avoided.

For travel tips and the most up-to-date information on Spanish health and safety, you should always consult the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for Spain and the CDC’s health recommendations for U.S. travelers before your trip, just in case.

If you are traveling during the summer months, extreme heat can be an issue. You’ll notice that most Spanish people rest indoors during the warmest parts of the day, so be wary of physical exertion during these hours, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and always heed local guidance regarding the heat.

If you’re planning to walk Spain’s Camino de Santiago, make sure you’re prepared with the right equipment, nutrition, and hydration. Redpoint’s Ripcord policy would be the right fit for this more adventurous kind of trip.

Finally, if you plan to skip public transport and drive while in Spain, be aware that Spain has strict traffic laws around speed, seatbelts, use of mobile phones, and more. It’s strongly recommended to have an International Driving Permit along with your driver’s license.

Insurance Benefits for a trip to Spain

From emergency medical to trip-delay coverage to lost baggage, the components of any good travel insurance policy are the same, and it’s no different for a travel insurance plan for Spain.

Before you buy travel insurance, look over the policy details to make sure your preferred plan has each type of coverage below. That way, you should be covered — no matter what happens during your next trip to Spain.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: Trip cancellation insurance reimburses your non-refundable trip expenses if your trip to Spain is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons, like illness, severe weather, or family emergencies. For extra trip cancellation coverage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance is usually available as an add-on.
Travel medical insurance: This covers emergency medical costs for injuries or illnesses incurred during your trip. Spain has good healthcare, but international travelers will have to pay out of pocket to receive treatment. Remember, your health insurance from home will not be accepted. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, consider applying for a waiver when you purchase travel insurance.
Emergency medical evacuation insurance: Emergency evacuation coverage reimburses you for transportation to the nearest Spanish medical facility or back to your home country in extreme or emergency situations. It can be necessary if your travel plans include more adventurous activities, beyond just visiting the major cities.
Baggage and personal belongings insurance: This covers lost baggage and theft or damage to your belongings, should they go missing during your trip.
Trip delay insurance:Trip delay insurance compensates for additional expenses if your travel is delayed before it starts or during any connections or transfers.

For adventure travelers heading for white-water rafting or canyoning in Aragón, horseback riding in the Balearic Islands, or a hike or trek in the Picos de Europa or the Pyrenees, Ripcord is an extensive travel plan with high coverage limits and enhanced coverage

If you’re sticking to the main cities and tourist areas, whether it’s Madrid, Barcelona, or Ibiza, you’ll be better served with Redpoint’s other policies, Cavalry or Harbor.Cavalry is particularly suited for urban travel and luxury experiences, while Harbor offers robust coverage for the budget-minded leisure traveler.

You can buy travel insurance for a single trip to Spain, or purchase a policy for multiple trips with an annual policy. Check out our Ripcord Page and select Annual for a quote today.

FAQs for Spain Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance for Spain?

Travel insurance is not required to visit Spain if you are an American tourist staying for less than 90 days. However, it is a risk to travel anywhere without appropriate travel insurance, even if it's not required. If you are applying for a Schengen visa for longer stays, then you will need to provide proof of travel insurance.

How much is travel insurance for Spain?

The cost of travel insurance for Spain varies based on several factors, including the length of stay and the level of coverage desired. But the main drivers are traveler demographics, such as the traveler’s age, and the total price of the trip. Most of Redpoint's travel insurance plans for Spain range from 6% to 15% of the total trip costs.

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to Spain?

A comprehensive travel insurance policy for Spain should include adequate medical coverage (at least $100,000) for unexpected medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, and baggage loss protection. You should also look for a policy with 24/7 assistance services, which all of Redpoint's policies offer.

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for travelers to Spain?

There are no longer COVID-19 restrictions for travelers arriving in Spain. If you are worried about the coronavirus affecting your trip, consider adding cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage to your travel insurance policy. CFAR allows for more flexibility, including cancellation for a COVID-19 infection.

What happens if a tourist gets sick in Spain?

If you get sick or injured in Spain, you should be able to access medical care at a hospital or clinic easily. However, if you do not have travel insurance coverage, you will need to pay out of pocket for any medical expense you incur, and healthcare costs can be high for non-residents, so a travel insurance policy that includes coverage for medical emergencies is essential.

If you are having problems finding a care provider close to you, or one that speaks English, you can contact Redpoint's 24/7 assistance helpline at +1-415-481-0610. For emergency services in Spain, dial 112.

Are hospitals good in Spain?

The quality of healthcare in Spain is high, and most visitors won't need to worry about accessing appropriate medical care if they encounter an emergency or are involved in an accident.

In highly populated areas and cities, you should be able to access care at public healthcare facilities. In more remote areas, you may need to find a private clinic or provider.

What documentation is needed to visit Spain?

Fortunately, U.S. citizens visiting Spain only need a valid passport with six months' validity, as recommended by the U.S. State Department

A visa is not required for Americans entering the European countries of the Schengen Zone for tourism or business purposes, as long as they're staying less than 90 days. However, starting in 2025, travelers may need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering.

Is Spain safe to visit?

Spain is considered safe to visit and welcomes millions of tourists per year who have incident-free trips. Crime rates are relatively low, but as with any major tourist destination, petty crime and theft may occur. Follow common-sense precautions and take heed of any local advisories.

Is Spain safe for female travelers?

Spain is safe for female travelers, and solo female travel is common. Exercise normal safety precautions, such as refraining from walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. It's always wise to let someone know where you're staying as well.

How do I contact the U.S. Embassy in Spain?

TheU.S. Embassy in Spain is located in Madrid, and there are also consulates in Barcelona, Seville, and other cities. Consular officials can assist with passport issues, legal matters, and other emergencies. The contact info for the embassy in Madrid is below:

75 Calle de Serrano 28006 Madrid Tel: +34-91-587-2200 .

Protect Your Trip With Redpoint Travel Insurance

Redpoint is known for its comprehensive and affordable policies for any type of adventure, from a relaxing Spanish retreat to a longer adventure. Explore our Ripcord, Cavalry, and Harbor policy options, and get a quote to suit your international travel needs today.