- The best travel insurance plans for Ireland
- Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Ireland?
- Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
- What travel insurance for Ireland should cover
- What is the cost of travel insurance for Ireland?
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Ireland?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Ireland: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Ireland covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Australians but is essential for comprehensive medical and travel protection.
3. Healthcare cost: The reciprocal health agreement only covers essential public care; private treatment can be expensive.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Ireland typically costs between AUD $30 and AUD $60.
5. Good to know: Consider cover for petty crime and car break-ins, which are common in tourist areas.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Ireland.
The best travel insurance plans for Ireland
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AU$1.6M | Recommended for extended trips to Ireland. - high medical limit - repatriation included - extensive assistance |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AU$1.6M | Good for flexible travel plans in Ireland. - 24/7 medical support - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | AU$800k | Solid value for standard holiday travel in Ireland. - practical medical cover - emergency help - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | AU$1.1M | Balanced protection for regular travellers. - reliable hospital cover - repatriation - worldwide assistance |
| Globe Partner | AU$480k | Suitable for essential needs on shorter stays. - medical care in Ireland - liability cover - simple claims process |
| Globe Traveller | AU$800k | Cost-effective for short trips and limited risks. - fast medical action - essentials covered - capped reimbursement |
- high medical limit
- repatriation included
- extensive assistance
- 24/7 medical support
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- practical medical cover
- emergency help
- competitive price
- reliable hospital cover
- repatriation
- worldwide assistance
- medical care in Ireland
- liability cover
- simple claims process
- fast medical action
- essentials covered
- capped reimbursement
Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade recommends travellers to exercise normal safety precautions when visiting Ireland. No specific risks require Australians to avoid travel, but it is important to remain alert, especially in urban areas.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in city centres like Dublin and on public transport. Car break-ins targeting rental vehicles have increased, particularly around tourist sites.
- Health risks: the standard of healthcare in Ireland is comparable to Australia’s, with no particular disease risks for travellers from Australia. However, the reciprocal health agreement covers only emergency public hospital care and not transport, private care, or evacuation.
- Legal requirements: Australian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days, but immigration authorities may ask for proof of a return ticket and accommodation. Longer stays or different purposes require a visa in advance.
- Environmental risks: urban areas may see increased thefts at night, and there is a moderate risk of violent incidents in secluded or poorly lit parks, which should be avoided.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Ireland.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Ireland?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for Australian travellers entering Ireland.
However, it is strongly recommended because, while Australia and Ireland have a reciprocal healthcare agreement for emergency treatment in public hospitals, medical evacuation, repatriation, private medical care, travel disruption, and baggage loss are not covered.
According to our data, 50% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Ireland. This is due to the potential high cost of private healthcare, travel disruptions, or lost baggage not covered by public health agreements.
Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Ireland.
Although public hospitals like St Vincent’s University Hospital in Dublin are accessible for emergency care, private care in clinics such as the Mater Private is often required for faster or specialised treatment, and costs can be very high. The reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia does not cover private care, medical evacuation, or non-medical incidents.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Ireland.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Mater Private Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 4,500 EUR (about AU$7,300) | Up to AU$1,000,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,300 EUR (about AU$3,700) | Up to AU$1,000,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | 65,000 EUR (about AU$106,000) | Up to AU$1,000,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 9,000 EUR (about AU$14,500) | Up to AU$1,000,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Ireland should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospitalisation, GP visits, and medicines if you fall ill or suffer injury. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AU$500,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Refunds non-refundable costs if you are forced to cancel or cut short your trip for urgent reasons. Aim for cover of at least AU$10,000. |
| 🧳 Lost or stolen baggage | Covers loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and personal effects. A limit of at least AU$3,000 is advisable for Ireland. |
| 👫 Personal liability | Pays for accidental damage or injury you cause to others. Look for cover up to AU$2 million. |
| 🚑 Emergency medical evacuation | Pays for emergency transport to Australia or the nearest centre of medical excellence. We recommend at least AU$300,000. |
| 🚗 Rental vehicle excess | Reimburses the excess charged if your hire car is damaged or stolen. Seek cover of at least AU$5,000. |
| 📱 Travel delay | Reimburses meals, accommodation, or essentials if flights are delayed. Target a reimbursement limit of AU$1,000+. |
| 🦴 Accidental death or disability | Provides a lump sum if you suffer permanent injury or death in an accident. A minimum cover of AU$25,000 is recommended. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AU$500,000.
Aim for cover of at least AU$10,000.
A limit of at least AU$3,000 is advisable for Ireland.
Look for cover up to AU$2 million.
We recommend at least AU$300,000.
Seek cover of at least AU$5,000.
Target a reimbursement limit of AU$1,000+.
A minimum cover of AU$25,000 is recommended.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often gives limited protection, with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with comprehensive cover. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for an instant certificate.
What is the cost of travel insurance for Ireland?
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AU$45 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AU$70 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AU$110 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AU$230 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy is influenced by several key factors. These include your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of cover you choose, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Considering these elements will help you find the right cover for your trip without any nasty surprises.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Ireland while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑🤝🧑 Traveller's age | Insurance prices can increase significantly for older travellers. Heymondo does not raise premiums for those over 62. | Compare policies across age groups and check if Heymondo can offer a better deal for seniors. |
| 📋 Level of coverage | Adequate cover is important in Ireland despite the healthcare agreement. Insufficient coverage can lead to high out-of-pocket expenses. | Select only the coverage you need, avoiding costly extras like business or luxury items coverage if not required. |
| 🛫 Trip duration | Longer trips generally increase the price of insurance due to extended risk exposure. | Choose exact travel dates and consider annual multi-trip policies if you travel frequently, as these can often be more cost-effective. |
| 💼 Optional extras | Add-ons such as adventure sports or electronics cover can quickly raise your premium. | Opt out of extras you do not need for your trip to keep your premium low and coverage relevant. |
| 🏥 Deductible/excess selection | Choosing a higher excess can lower your premium but increases your potential upfront payment in the event of a claim. | Opt for a higher deductible to reduce initial premium, but ensure you can comfortably pay the excess in case of an incident. |
| 🛒 Where you buy | Direct and online brokers often have fewer fees or lower commissions than agents. | Use comparison sites like HelloSafe to find and purchase travel insurance directly from reputable providers for better prices. |
| 👨👩👧 Family/couple policies | Insuring multiple people on one policy can be more affordable than separate policies. | Look for group or family plans to benefit from lower rates per person, especially if travelling together. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Ireland?
It is perfectly reasonable to wonder whether your public health system, private health cover, or credit card insurance can protect you during a trip to Ireland. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Ireland? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Limited coverage | Emergency treatment only in public hospitals under the reciprocal agreement, no private care, no repatriation. | Travel insurance covers up to AU$1,000,000+ for hospital costs, private clinics, repatriation, and 24/7 assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, nib) | Limited coverage | Some partial overseas reimbursement, usually limited to AU$5,000–AU$10,000, excludes most evacuation and all travel risks. | Travel insurance covers AU$1,000,000+ for medical, emergency evacuation, travel, and personal liability. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Limited coverage | Medical up to AU$20,000, usually excludes trip cancellation, delays, personal liability, and baggage issues. | Travel insurance covers medical up to AU$1,000,000+, cancellation, baggage, delays, and personal liability. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Rewards Black, Visa Platinum, Mastercard Gold) | Limited coverage | Medical up to AU$100,000, some baggage and delay cover, but not comprehensive for all needs including repatriation. | Travel insurance covers up to AU$1,000,000+, including repatriation, total loss baggage, cancellation, and accidents. |
Example
Hiking near the Cliffs of Moher, Liam suffered a severe leg fracture. The private surgery and hospital stay totalled AU$35,000. His Australian health insurance provided no overseas cover, and his standard CommBank debit card offered none. Without proper travel insurance, he faced the entire bill himself, a disastrous end to his trip.
Expert advice
Trip interruption for a relative's illness or death is often excluded from bank card and health insurance policies. Always check the PDS for exclusions to avoid surprises abroad. In any case, it's safer and more reassuring to buy dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
Australian citizens do not require a visa to visit Ireland for tourism for up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, and immigration officers may ask for proof of accommodation, return flights, and sufficient funds. For longer stays, work, or study, a visa is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best policy for your trip. Carefully check coverage and exclusions, especially related to health care in Ireland and non-medical incidents. Purchase your policy online, then receive your insurance certificate for your records and peace of mind.
Will my insurance cover theft or lost items in Ireland?
Most travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, lost baggage, and personal belongings, but terms vary. Standard cover is typically up to AU$2,000–AU$5,000 for baggage, with individual item limits. Electronic devices and valuables may need additional cover, so check your policy details before departure.
Does travel insurance cover medical emergencies in Ireland even with the healthcare agreement?
Yes, travel insurance often covers more than reciprocal healthcare. The Australia-Ireland agreement only covers emergency treatment at public hospitals. Travel insurance can pay for private care, emergency evacuation, travel disruption, and assistance, with health coverage limits often exceeding AU$1,000,000.
Can I get cover for rental car excess or damages with travel insurance?
Many comprehensive policies include rental car excess insurance, covering costs up to AU$5,000–AU$8,000 if your rental car is damaged or stolen. Check that your policy includes this feature and if there are restrictions, such as vehicle type or minimum rental periods, before relying on this cover.
How far in advance should I buy travel insurance for Ireland?
It is best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip to Ireland. Early purchase ensures you are covered for any unexpected events like trip cancellation, illness, or emergency before your departure, allowing you to reclaim eligible costs under the policy.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
Australian citizens do not require a visa to visit Ireland for tourism for up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, and immigration officers may ask for proof of accommodation, return flights, and sufficient funds. For longer stays, work, or study, a visa is required.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
First, use the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the best policy for your trip. Carefully check coverage and exclusions, especially related to health care in Ireland and non-medical incidents. Purchase your policy online, then receive your insurance certificate for your records and peace of mind.
Will my insurance cover theft or lost items in Ireland?
Most travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, lost baggage, and personal belongings, but terms vary. Standard cover is typically up to AU$2,000–AU$5,000 for baggage, with individual item limits. Electronic devices and valuables may need additional cover, so check your policy details before departure.
Does travel insurance cover medical emergencies in Ireland even with the healthcare agreement?
Yes, travel insurance often covers more than reciprocal healthcare. The Australia-Ireland agreement only covers emergency treatment at public hospitals. Travel insurance can pay for private care, emergency evacuation, travel disruption, and assistance, with health coverage limits often exceeding AU$1,000,000.
Can I get cover for rental car excess or damages with travel insurance?
Many comprehensive policies include rental car excess insurance, covering costs up to AU$5,000–AU$8,000 if your rental car is damaged or stolen. Check that your policy includes this feature and if there are restrictions, such as vehicle type or minimum rental periods, before relying on this cover.
How far in advance should I buy travel insurance for Ireland?
It is best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip to Ireland. Early purchase ensures you are covered for any unexpected events like trip cancellation, illness, or emergency before your departure, allowing you to reclaim eligible costs under the policy.
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