Belgium Travel Insurance Plans

In this article:

• Belgium Travel Insurance Plans
• Belgium Travel Tips and Safety Information
• Other Belgium FAQs

Visitors with a Schengen Visa require a travel insurance plan for entry to Belgium. Travelers without a visa should consider a travel insurance plan to help protect your trip investment. Belgium is considered one of the more expensive European countries to visit, so having coverage for Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption as well as coverage for certain emergency medical expenses is important. If you’re a traveler who prefers to rent a vehicle for your trip to Belgium, Rental Vehicle Damage Coverage can help reimburse you for certain costs.

Because trips to Belgium can be expensive, a travel insurance plan with high coverage limits is a great idea. Our Deluxe Plan has standard coverages like Trip Interruption, Trip Cancellation and Missed Connection that can help reimburse you for certain prepaid and nonrefundable expenses paid for your trip. The Deluxe Plan stands out from other plans since it already includes some of the optional coverage upgrades from the Essential and Preferred Plans, like Security Bundle, Baggage Bundle and the Travel Inconvenience Bundle. As mentioned, the Rental Vehicle Damage Coverage can be crucial since car rentals are popular for tourists who want to explore more of Belgium. Finally, with a Travel Guard travel insurance plan, you’re not alone in a crisis since you’ll have 24/7 access to our assistance services team.

Travel insurance plans are usually priced between 5-7% of the total cost of your trip. Some factors come into play with the pricing like the product you select, number of people in your party and the length of your trip. For more details on pricing, you can look through our article on how much a travel insurance plan costs.

To make sure travelers to Belgium are as safe and informed as possible, we’ve gathered the most popular questions asked by other tourists.

Travelers to Belgium should be aware of some prominent risks. The country has experienced a number of significant terrorist attacks, including bombings, shootings and stabbings. Potential targets include transportation hubs, tourist sites, government buildings, security personnel and crowded public areas.

In addition to terrorism risks, petty crime is a concern, particularly in major cities. Pickpocketing, bag snatching, theft of unattended belongings and theft from vehicles idling in traffic may impact travelers. Thieves often operate on public transportation, at transportation hubs and in other crowded areas such as markets. Criminals may also target luggage stowed under seats and overhead compartments on trains. Visitors should keep all belongings secure, travel with vehicle doors locked and windows up, stow electronics and other personal items out of sight in vehicles and should avoid isolated areas – especially after dark. Thieves may also use distraction techniques, and individuals should be wary if approached by strangers.

Although travelers are not typically directly targeted in violent crimes, rival criminal gangs may carry out bombings, shootings and stabbings that pose risks to bystanders. These incidents are generally relegated to areas outside of popular tourist zones, but travelers should nonetheless be aware of collateral threats.

Travelers to Belgium may also be targeted in scams and cybercrime. Individuals should be wary of unsolicited offers from strangers, access sensitive information on electronic devices using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and should use ATMs in secure locations to minimize risks of card skimming.

Demonstrations and strikes frequently occur in Belgium and can lead to significant disruptions and occasional outbreaks of violence. Travelers should avoid large gatherings and should monitor local reports for any announced strikes. Strikes may impact transportation services, including flights and public transport, so visitors should ensure they have a contingency plan for getting around in the event of a labor action.

Belgium’s public transportation system is robust. Trains, metro services, buses and taxis are widely available. Aside from pickpocketing concerns on trains, metro services and buses, unlicensed taxis may overcharge tourists. Travelers should only use licensed taxis and should book services in advance instead of hailing cabs on the street. While road conditions in the country are good, local driving practices and unfamiliar laws make self-driving a riskier undertaking for inexperienced visitors. Additionally, heavy rains can lead to flooding in parts of the country, which can further impact travel.

Individuals should always carry official identification and should comply if authorities request it. Travelers should also be aware that partial and full-face coverings are banned in public places, and visitors are not exempted from the law.

Belgium’s official currency is the Euro. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Belgium, though street market vendors and small stores may only accept cash. You can exchange currency at your local bank before departing on your trip or use the currency exchange kiosk at the airport, though that may cost you more money.

Belgium has three official languages: German, Dutch and French. While not an official language, English is quite common in larger cities, tourist areas and among younger generations. However, if you’re renting a vehicle, you’ll want to understand the street signage, which is posted in French and Dutch. When traveling to a foreign country it’s always beneficial to practice common sayings and phrases or have a translator that works without Wi-Fi.

Visas are not required for travelers visiting Belgium or other countries in the Schengen area for less than 90 days. A passport with two blank pages is required for entry and should be valid for three months after your departure from the country.

You can visit the official U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date entry requirements. 

The U.S. Embassy in Belgium is located in Brussels. Visit the official embassy website for the latest addresses and contact information.

The weather in Belgium is moderate with frequent rain and cool temperatures year-round ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to mid-60s Fahrenheit in the summertime.

Summertime tends to be the best time to visit Belgium since temperatures are warm and the country is alive with cultural and music festivals. Or visit in the springtime to see nature reborn and colorful wildflowers that fill the countryside, just remember to dress in layers for the cool temperatures and possible rain.

Belgium’s dial code is +32 and can be used to reach cellphones and landlines in the country. To call Belgium from the U.S., you’ll need to dial the international prefix of +011, followed by the dial and area codes before the seven-digit number you’re trying to reach. For calling the U.S. from Belgium, you’ll just need to use the +1 code for the U.S. followed by the ten-digit number. Before international travel, let your phone provider know of your plans to avoid surprise fees and service interruptions.

Belgium uses a different voltage and outlet type than the U.S. so you will need to bring a power transformer and plug adapter to be able to use your electronics. We recommend a universal adapter that can be used on other trips in the future.

As the capital city, Brussels is by far the most popular destination to visit in Belgium. You can take a workshop to make Belgian chocolate creations, shop at the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert or simply take a walking tour of the city to get up close and personal with the culture and history of Brussels.

Rail passes, or travel cards, in Belgium might not be worth it for your trip. You’re likely not going to use the number of miles that make a buying a pass worth it. Instead, buy your tickets as needed, as most trains in Belgium don’t require you to make a ticket reservation.

If you want the freedom to explore the countryside of Belgium without relying on public transportation, you may consider renting a car for your vacation. Make sure you know how to pick out the right rental vehicle before your trip and keep in mind that most rental cars in Belgium are manual transmission. Though automatic cars may be available for a higher cost.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive and customizable travel insurance plans for travelers heading to Belgium. With excellent coverage and specialized emergency travel assistance representatives ready to help you at any time, Travel Guard is there for you. Compare our popular plans and find the best one for you!

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