Travel Insurance and Safety Advice as a Visitor to Hungary
Hungary welcomed 16 million tourists in 2023. The capital, Budapest, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning urban landscape and influential architecture. Tokaj is a picturesque wine region. Roman ruins and Ottoman architecture can be found in Pécs. And let’s not forget the abundance of natural thermal springs!
While travel through Hungary is generally safe, these locations are not without risk. Pickpocketing and pricing scams frequently occur. Natural disasters or political demonstrations can arise unexpectedly. Healthcare facilities may be limited in certain areas.
We’ve included some tips to help you stay aware of these risks and keep yourself as safe as possible during your trip. Travel insurance for Hungary is also essential for dealing with accidents or illness while you explore the country.
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- Compare top-rated travel insurance providers
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- Choose the best plan for your trip and budget
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory For Hungary?
Visitors who require a Schengen Visa to enter Hungary must purchase travel insurance as part of their visa application process. The travel insurance must be valid throughout the entire Schengen area and provide a minimum coverage of approximately $32,325 USD (€30,000).
If you are from the EU, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive care for any health issues that arise during your visit to the country.
For everyone else, travel insurance for Hungary is not mandatory but is recommended. If faced with an emergency abroad, the last thing you want to worry about is money.
Buying travel insurance ensures you and your loved ones are protected no matter the emergency.
- Medical Coverage: Both public and private healthcare facilities are available in Hungary. The public system is known for being understaffed and having long wait times. The doctors and clinic staff may not be able to speak English, and the facilities may not be up to the standards you’re used to. Travel health insurance will allow you to access the private healthcare system with minimal out-of-pocket expenses. You’ll find that the private system offers shorter waiting times, newer facilities, and a wider range of specialists.
- Trip Coverage: An unexpected illness, accident, or political event may prompt you to reconsider your travel plans. A delayed flight or lost luggage may result in unforeseen expenses that impact your budget. To ensure you’re covered for any trip interruptions, you may also consider trip cancellation insurance or the more comprehensive Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. Many of these plans also offer emergency evacuation services in the event of natural disasters or political unrest.
Best Travel Insurance for Visitors to Hungary
There are many good options for travel insurance in Hungary. When buying your plan, you’ll want to let your agent know how long your trip will be, what types of activities you plan to do, and any health conditions you have. Travelers all have different insurance needs.
At a minimum, it’s a good idea to ensure your plan covers last-minute changes, cancellations, and evacuations.
Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance
- Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
- IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
- Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest
Atlas Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation benefits
- Choose between basic or more extensive coverage
- Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
Best Travel Plan for US Citizens
Single Trip Platinum Travel Insurance
- For U.S. citizens and residents up to age 95
- Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
- 24/7/365 service and assistance
Medical Preparation for Travel to Hungary
Be sure to visit your doctor at least one month before your trip to receive any necessary vaccinations or medications.
Required Vaccinations for Travel to Hungary
Hungary does not require any particular vaccinations to enter the country.
However, the CDC and WHO recommend that all travelers to Hungary be up to date on routine vaccinations, such as chickenpox, influenza, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP) vaccines.
Most embassies additionally recommend hepatitis A vaccines due to the potential of contaminated food and water consumption.
Rabies is not a significant concern in Hungary; however, it can be found in particular wildlife species. The CDC recommends a rabies vaccination for anyone who intends to interact with wildlife.
How to Bring Medications to Hungary
You are allowed to bring prescription or over-the-counter medications into Hungary. When bringing medications into any country, you should follow these tips to avoid any issues:
- Keep your medicines in the packaging they came in
- Make sure the name on the label is the same as on your passport
- Carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription with you
Keep in mind that some medications that are legal in your home country may be illegal in other countries. Certain medicines for ADHD, anxiety, or sleeping pills may be banned in Europe.
For more information on the availability or legality of specific medications in Hungary, please get in touch with your local Hungarian embassy.
How to Access Medical Care in Hungary for Visitors
Healthcare facilities are available throughout the country. Generally, the quality of care is higher in urban areas than in rural areas.
Issues that plague the public healthcare system, such as understaffing and limited diagnostic testing capabilities, are even more pronounced in rural locations.
Every foreigner in Hungary, including tourists, is entitled to emergency first aid services. However, they will be expected to pay for the care they receive.
Visitors should buy an international health insurance plan to cover any medical expenses they may incur.
Most expats will find that private facilities are more aligned with their healthcare expectations. Private clinics offer shorter waiting times, a wider range of specialties, newer facilities, and English-speaking staff.
Your insurance provider can offer recommendations on where to receive treatment, tailored to your location and specific needs. Some plans provide telehealth visits or translators as needed.
Travel Warnings and Alerts for Hungary
Hungary is rated within the top twenty most peaceful countries in the world by the 2023 Global Peace Index. By comparison, the UK ranks 37th, while the US ranks 131st.
Regardless of a country’s overall safety ranking, it’s a good idea to stay informed about any travel advisories for your destination.
These alerts can change often. Use the following sources to stay up-to-date on any travel alerts or warnings for Hungary.
American visitors also have the option to register with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Sign up before your trip to receive alerts while you’re abroad.
Emergency Assistance Numbers in Hungary
English is generally spoken at all these numbers. If not, call 112, where help is available in English 24/7.
- Dial 112 for emergency services
- Dial 104 for ambulance services
- Dial 107 for the police department
- Dial 105 for the fire department
Embassy Phone Numbers in Hungary
Below you can find contact information for your local embassy or consular services:
United States Embassy
Szabadság tér 12
H-1054 Budapest, Hungary
Phone: +36 1 475 4400
Fax: +36 1 475 4248
Email: acs.budapest@state.gov
Embassy of Canada
Ganz utca 12-14, 1027 Budapest, Hungary
Phone: +36 1 392 3342
Fax: +36 1 392 3390
Email: bpest.consular@international.gc.ca
British Embassy
Füge u. 5-7, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
Phone: +36 1 429 6200
Fax: +36 1 266 0907
Contact: www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-budapest
Embassy of France
Kossuth Lajos tér 13-15, 1055 Budapest, Hungary
Phone: +36 1 999 7260
Fax: +36 1 374 1140
Email: consulat.budapest-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr
Australian Consulate
Eötvös Loránd University ,Múzeum Körút 4/a 1088 Budapest, Hungary
Email: auconsulate.budapest@gmail.com
For full consular services, the Australian Embassy is located in Vienna, Austria. You can email any inquiries to: consular.vienna@dfat.gov.au
New Zealand Consulate
Nagymező u. 47, 1065 Budapest, Hungary
Phone: +36 30 971 0225
Fax: +36 1 354 1848
Email: nzconsulate@t-online.hu
7 Tips for Safe Travel in Hungary
1. Keep Your Valuables Safe
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, is common in tourist areas. In particular, be aware of your surroundings on public transportation.
Pickpockets especially target trains between Budapest and Vienna. Do not leave any valuables unattended and remain vigilant for any suspicious individuals nearby.
Keep your car and accommodation locked. Avoid walking on any empty streets after dark.
2. Check Prices and Be Aware of Scams
Always double-check the prices at restaurants and bars before you order. Some places will overcharge tourists.
Be cautious of friendly strangers or taxi drivers who invite you to specific restaurants or clubs. They may receive a commission or be involved in the scam. Arguing over prices after the fact can lead to violent situations.
3. Be Aware of Intolerances
New government policies have raised concerns about the treatment of minorities in Hungary. Roma communities, LGBTQIA+ people, refugees, religious minorities, and other marginalized groups may face discrimination or even hate crimes.
So, if you are a member of any of these groups, use added caution when traveling to Hungary. If possible, speak with people there about their experiences and how to stay safe.
4. Carry Your Passport
Police can ask to see your identification at any time. A photocopy of your passport will not be accepted as an ID. You may be taken into custody if you try to prove your identity without your passport.
5. Avoid Demonstrations
Political demonstrations commonly occur in Budapest. Nationalist groups are sometimes intolerant towards minorities and migrants.
While these demonstrations tend not to turn violent, they can be unpredictable. It is best to avoid any protests or confrontations with these groups.
6. Check for Ticks
From spring to late autumn, ticks are common in forests and rural areas. There is a risk of tick-borne encephalitis.
Wear long sleeves and protective clothing if visiting these areas. After leaving, make sure to check your body for ticks and remove any you find as soon as possible. If you find any, monitor yourself for signs of infection.
7. Be Prepared for Natural Disasters
Severe snowstorms can leave parts of the country isolated for days at a time. Flooding is common from March to May along the rivers in the northeast region of Hungary.
You can register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts if any severe weather is headed your way.
Peace of Mind in Hungary
The Ottoman castles and mosques, relaxing thermal springs, and delicious goulash make Hungary a popular tourist destination in Europe.
Even so, health emergencies, unexpected delays, or natural disasters can happen. That’s why it’s essential to buy travel insurance for Hungary before your trip.
Knowing you are protected while traveling offers peace of mind so you can focus on the fun stuff.
Find the Best International Travel Insurance
- Compare top-rated travel insurance providers
- Get quotes for Travel Medical, Trip Cancellation, and more
- Choose the best plan for your trip and budget
Elizabeth Baugh is a versatile freelance writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness. She has international experience living in multiple countries, is fluent in Spanish, and holds a license as a TEFL teacher, sharing insights on travel and relocation.
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