A warning has been issued for young travelers regarding the high costs of medical transportation abroad, which can amount to hundreds of thousands of euros if they do not have adequate travel insurance.
A warning from the Finnish insurance company If emphasizes the importance of travel insurance for young travelers, particularly regarding the potentially exorbitant costs associated with medical emergencies abroad. The spokesperson, Jukka Heinämäki, highlighted a concerning trend where an increasing number of young people mistakenly believe that their home country or embassies will cover these costs. In reality, the responsibility falls on the individual to secure proper travel insurance, especially for serious illnesses or injuries requiring an air ambulance.
The costs associated with air transportation for medical emergencies can vary widely, ranging from €15,000 to €30,000 within mainland Europe, and reaching as high as €250,000 for airlifting from Bangkok to Finland. This financial burden can be overwhelming, particularly for young travelers who may not be financially prepared for such an emergency. Heinämäki noted that financial literacy and awareness are crucial, as many young people may underestimate the risks involved when traveling abroad without insurance.
The findings from a survey conducted by Finanssiala ry indicate that while most (90%) travelers take out travel insurance, a significant number still operate under false assumptions about government support in emergencies. This disconnect between reality and perception highlights the need for better education on travel insurance and its necessity among younger demographics who are often more spontaneous in their travel decisions. Knowing the costs and preparing adequately can prevent stressful situations that could arise from unexpected medical emergencies abroad.
