What UK & EU Tourists Need to Know Before They Fly
Planning a trip to Lanzarote? Don’t skip travel insurance. Whether you’re sunbathing in Playa Blanca or hiking through Timanfaya, having the right cover gives you peace of mind — especially for travellers over 60.
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Lanzarote
🚑 Emergency medical care & hospital stays
🧳 Lost luggage or stolen items
✈️ Flight cancellations or delays
🏥 Access to private clinics near popular resorts
🔁 Cancellation due to illness
GHIC/EHIC Healthcare Cover for Over-60s Travelling to Lanzarote
Travelling to Lanzarote over the age of 60? You’re not alone — nearly 1 in 3 visitors are in the same age group. If you or a family member are heading to the Canary Islands, make sure you understand what healthcare cover you’re entitled to – and why a GHIC or EHIC card is helpful, but not enough.
🇬🇧 UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card)
You can access public healthcare in Lanzarote with a UK GHIC or EHIC, giving you the same treatment rights as Spanish residents.
For full details, visit the NHS Healthcare Abroad page.
Important:
A GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance — it only covers basic state healthcare within the EU.
You never need to pay for a GHIC or EHIC. To get yours for free, apply via the official NHS website.
🚨 Already Abroad Without a GHIC or EHIC?
If you’re already overseas and forgot your card, you can request a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC).
Apply online at the NHS Overseas Healthcare Service
Or call +44 191 218 1999 (Monday–Friday, 8am–6pm UK time)
A friend or relative can call on your behalf if needed
Here are top-rated travel insurers trusted by UK and EU tourists:
| Provider | Best for | Key Benefits | Where to Buy |
| Staysure | UK travellers aged 50+ | Covers pre-existing conditions, tailored senior plans | https://www.staysure.co.uk/ |
| InsureandGo | All UK tourists | Trusted brand, competitive rates, optional extras like gadget cover | https://www.insureandgo.com/ |
| Allianz | UK travellers seeking premium cover | Strong brand trust, 24/7 medical assistance, COVID-19 cover included | https://www.allianz-assistance.co.uk/travel-insurance.html |
| Columbus Direct | UK and EU holidaymakers in Spain | Affordable rates for Spain-specific policies, 24/7 emergency medical support | https://www.columbusdirect.com/travel/insurance-spain/ |
| World Nomads | Adventurers & younger travellers | Covers extreme sports like scuba, hiking, and surfing; flexible policy extensions | https://www.worldnomads.com/uk/ |
What Does Travel Insurance Cover in Lanzarote?
Coverage depends on your policy, but a good plan should also include:
24/7 medical assistance
COVID-related cancellations
Lost passports & baggage
Emergency repatriation
Adventure sports (if applicable)
English-Speaking Hospitals & Clinics in Lanzarote
Knowing where to go matters in an emergency. Here are some top-rated facilities:
Hospiten Lanzarote (Private) – Puerto del Carmen
Hospital Doctor José Molina Orosa (Public) – Arrecife
Clinica San Vicente (Private) – Costa Teguise
Travel Insurance FAQs for Lanzarote Tourists
❓ Is travel insurance mandatory for British travellers to Lanzarote?
Not legally, but highly recommended. GHIC does not cover private healthcare or repatriation.
❓ Does EHIC/GHIC work in Lanzarote?
Partially. You’ll get access to public hospitals, but not private care or ambulance transport.
❓ Do insurers cover COVID-related issues?
Most major providers do — but check policy fine print for quarantine, test costs, or cancellation cover.
Must-Read for Seniors: Lanzarote Travel Checklist
Perfect for over-60s travellers:
✅ Passport & GHIC
✅ Medication and prescriptions
✅ Travel insurance printout
✅ List of local clinics
✅ Airport assistance request (if needed)
Final Word: Don’t Gamble With Your Health Abroad
You’ve invested in your holiday — don’t leave your health and safety to chance. Whether you’re exploring volcanoes or enjoying a quiet beach escape, travel insurance for Lanzarote is essential.