What type of insurance is required for mountain hiking in Bulgaria?

Summer is in full swing, and one of the best ways to escape the heat is by retreating to the mountains. Our homeland is blessed with incredible natural beauty, which, along with its charm, also hides a number of risks. In this article, we’ll explore how to prepare for a mountain hike and why the “Tourism in Bulgaria” insurance should be an essential part of your hiking backpack.

What risks does mountain hiking involve?
Before heading out on a mountain hike, it’s crucial to have a clear plan and route. It’s essential to be familiar with the terrain and trail markings in advance, as you can’t rely solely on your mobile phone for navigation.

As beautiful and majestic as our mountains are, they also hide numerous dangers—steep trails, rocky terrain, fallen trees and branches are just a few of the obstacles you may encounter in the wild. That’s why your preparation should always include so-called mountain insurance, or the “Tourism in Bulgaria” policy.

Many people associate this type of insurance only with winter conditions and sports. However, that’s far from the truth. The coverage provided by the policy applies to any outing in the mountains, regardless of the season. Here are the main risks associated with mountain hiking:

• Accidents and Injury-Related Trauma
  This is the most common risk when spending time in nature. Many people—both beginners and experienced hikers—tend to underestimate the mountains and set off without proper gear or specialized footwear. Mountain terrain can be steep and slippery, and a single fall can lead to serious consequences—not just for your health, but also for your finances. This is where insurance comes in: its primary coverage includes accidents occurring during outdoor activities.

• Exhaustion and Dehydration During Long Hikes
  There has been a growing number of incidents where hikers or entire groups get lost in the mountains. In such situations, panic, lack of water, food, or warm clothing can make orientation even more difficult. That’s why it’s strongly recommended to always carry a fully charged mobile phone and a power bank, so you can call for help if needed.
  Rescue operations in the mountains can cost thousands, but if you have travel insurance, these costs will be covered. Euroins, for example, has a contract with the Mountain Rescue Service and reimburses them directly for the assistance provided to the injured person, including expenses for search and rescue operations.

• Other Covered Risks
  These are just some of the basic risks covered under mountain insurance, but the policy also provides coverage in the case of severe outcomes from accidents—such as permanent disability or even death.

• Additional Coverage
  Some insurers, like Euroins, offer enhanced policies with extended coverage. This minimizes the potential losses from a mountain-related incident. One such risk is temporary incapacity to work and medical expenses due to acute illness.
  Just imagine how financially disruptive it could be if, due to an injury in the mountains, you’re unable to perform your job for a certain period.

How to Prepare for Mountain Hikes

• A clear route, proper equipment, and a guide if needed- always research your route in advance and make a detailed hiking plan. Having proper hiking boots and gear is not a luxury but a necessity. If you're a beginner hiker, always go in a group and, ideally, with a guide.

• Food and plenty of water - nuts, bananas, and protein bars should be part of your essential food supplies. Always carry extra water, as you might need to share with another hiker in need.

• Extra clothing and thermal underwear - in the mountains, there’s always a risk of getting lost or having to spend the night outdoors. Even in summer, mountain nights can be very cold, so make sure you’re prepared with warm clothes and thermal layers.

• Power bank, headlamp, and flashlight - modern smartphones have limited battery life, especially when using GPS and apps. Always have a backup power source and a reliable light source with you.

• First aid kit, sun protection, and insect repellent- as enjoyable as a mountain hike may be, the sun can be unforgiving, and so can the insects you’ll likely encounter. Proper protection is a must.

• “Tourism in Bulgaria” insurance - to fully enjoy the beauty our country has to offer, you need to be fully protected. This insurance is the perfect choice for a worry-free mountain adventure.

Easier and More Accessible Than Ever
Getting insured has never been easier or more accessible. Prices vary depending on the coverage and duration, which can range from 1 day to 1 year. And if you don’t want to spend time visiting an office, Euroins also offers the option to purchase your policy online. With just a few clicks, you’ll be insured and ready to enjoy peaceful and unforgettable moments in Bulgaria’s great nature.