How to prepare for a holiday in Europe, with peace of mind

To prepare for a holiday in Europe, make sure you understand visa requirements, know what health precautions to take, plan your money and transport, and secure comprehensive travel insurance. A successful European trip comes down to preparation, from documentation to packing smartly. With the right steps in place, you can travel with total confidence and peace of mind.

Key takeaways

Table of contents

1. What do you need to know before you go to Europe?
2. Why does travel insurance matter beyond meeting visa rules?
3. What are the common travel mistakes to avoid when travelling to Europe?
4. How can you make your trip to Europe stress-free and worry-free?
5. Protect your trip with Santam Travel Insurance
6. Frequently asked questions: travel insurance for Europe
7. Additional resources

What do you need to know before you go to Europe?

From visas to health precautions and handling your money abroad, these are the key things every South African traveller should know before heading to Europe.

Visas and entry requirements for South Africans

South African passport holders need a Schengen Visa for entry into 29 European countries, including France, Italy, Spain, and Germany.

Visa checklist:

• Apply early, especially during peak seasons
• Apply via the country where you'll spend the most time

You'll need:

Note: Non-Schengen destinations like the UK have different visa requirements - check the rules before booking.

Health and safety considerations

Europe has excellent healthcare, but it's expensive for non-residents.

• Vaccines: No special vaccines needed for most destinations but stay up to date with routine immunisations.
• Seasonal tips:
  • Winter: Risk of flu, snow-related injuries
  • Summer: Watch out for heatwaves, especially in southern Europe
• Emergency medical costs: A simple visit to a hospital can cost more than your entire holiday investment

Tip: Save 112 in your phone - it's the universal emergency number in the EU.

Managing your money abroad

Different countries = different currencies, so plan ahead.

• The Euro (€) is used in 20 countries
• Some countries (like the UK, Croatia, or Hungary) use their own currency
• Card tips:
  • Credit/debit cards work almost everywhere
  • Always carry some cash for small towns or markets
  • Let your bank know you're travelling to avoid card blocks
• Withdraw cash in larger amounts to reduce ATM fees

Getting around Europe easily

Travelling between and within countries is convenient and efficient.

• Trains: High-speed rail is comfortable and scenic. Consider a Eurail Pass if visiting multiple countries.
• Flights: Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet are cheap but have strict baggage rules.
• Car hire: Great for rural areas and coastlines. Remember, most countries drive on the right.
• Public transport: Metros, buses, and trams are reliable and budget-friendly in most cities.

What should you pack for Europe's changing weather?

Weather in Europe varies from region to region and changes quickly.

Understanding cultural etiquette

A little respect goes a long way.

• Greet people in their local language - even a simple “bonjour” or “hola” is appreciated
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites
• Tipping varies - rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in many countries

Why does travel insurance matter beyond meeting visa rules?

Many see travel insurance as a box to tick for visa purposes. But in reality, it's a lifesaver when things don't go as planned.

What Santam Travel Insurance covers

Peace of mind: It's not just about paperwork - it's about being supported when things go wrong.

What are the common travel mistakes to avoid when travelling to Europe?

Even the most seasoned travellers make simple mistakes in Europe. Here are the ones to look out for so your holiday stays stress-free.

• Leaving insurance too late: cancellation cover only applies from the date of purchase
• Assuming your medical aid covers Europe: most don't
• Underestimating the weather: pack for all conditions
• Overpacking: luggage space is limited on trains and in small cars

How can you make your trip to Europe stress-free and worry-free?

With the right preparation, your European holiday will be memorable for all the right reasons.

• Schengen visa approved
• Health precautions sorted
• Smart packing, local knowledge in hand
• Travel insurance locked in

With Santam Travel Insurance, you're not just meeting visa requirements, you're travelling with real peace of mind.

Protect your trip with Santam Travel Insurance

Europe is calling - don't leave your holiday to chance.

Get an instant, obligation-free quote today with Santam Travel Insurance.
Travel with confidence, knowing you're protected across the continent - from Paris to Prague, and everywhere in between.