It is not mandatory but recommended. If you use an EHIC to get medical care, some insurers won’t ask you to pay the excess on your medical claims. The EHIC might not be enough on its own though. You are recommended to still get travel insurance that includes medical and repatriation cover.
Travel insurance often also cover theft, loss, and failure of a travel company.
There are a wide variety of policies, and some policies specifically exclude ‘dangerous activities’, which can include scuba diving, motorcycling, winter sports, adventure sports or even hiking. So check the small print!
Where can I buy private travel insurance?
If you own a credit card, repatriation insurance, as well as other insurance services, may be included in your fees. For more information, contact your bank.
Companies such as World Nomads, True Traveller, Europ Assistance, Alpha Travel or Chapka Assurances are well known travel insurance companies.