This weekend marks the beginning of the winter break in several Polish regions. For many, it’s a time for active relaxation both in Poland and abroad. While preparing for the trip, it’s essential not only to plan the logistics and pack accordingly but also to secure proper insurance coverage to mitigate the risks of unforeseen events. An insurance agent can help select the right policy.
Winter Break 2025 – When Does It Start?
This year, winter break begins on January 20. The first students to enjoy the holidays will be from the Kuyavian-Pomeranian, Lubusz, Lesser Poland, Świętokrzyskie, and Greater Poland provinces.
On January 27, schools in Podlaskie and Warmian-Masurian provinces will go on break, followed by Lower Silesia, Mazovia, Opole, and West Pomerania on February 3. The last group—students from Lublin, Łódź, Subcarpathian, Pomeranian, and Silesian provinces—will start their break later in February.
During this time, many families and young travelers head off on trips. Whether you’re planning your vacation independently or through a travel agency, securing the right insurance coverage is crucial.
Medical Expenses & Liability Coverage – Essential for the Slopes and the Beach
For most, winter break is synonymous with skiing and snowboarding in the mountains. However, some prefer to escape the cold and head for warmer destinations. Regardless of where you go, one of the first steps in trip planning should be purchasing travel insurance for the duration of your stay.
A basic travel insurance policy typically covers medical expenses and emergency medical transport back to your home country. However, depending on the insurer and selected package, the policy may also include compensation for:
- Rescue operations
- Mandatory COVID-19 quarantine
- Pre-existing medical condition flare-ups
- Lost or stolen luggage
Many travelers heading to European destinations assume that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will provide complete protection in case of illness or an accident. However, in reality, it only grants access to public healthcare services under the same conditions as the citizens of the country you’re visiting.
“Since many European countries have co-payment healthcare systems, patients may still be responsible for part of the treatment costs,”
explains Rafał Bojarczuk, Member of the Management Board of Comperia Ubezpieczenia.
“Additionally, EHIC is only valid within Europe, while a well-chosen travel policy covers you worldwide and ensures reimbursement of medical expenses.”
When purchasing insurance, it’s also wise to include personal liability coverage. This protects you in situations where you accidentally cause damage, such as breaking someone’s ski equipment or injuring another skier on the slopes. In such cases, your insurance company covers the cost of damages, preventing you from facing out-of-pocket expenses.
For added protection, you can insure against trip cancellation or early return due to unforeseen circumstances. These policies reimburse expenses related to:
📌 Prepaid vacation packages
📌 Independently purchased flight or train tickets
📌 Hotel reservations
📌 Event tickets or conference fees
This extra protection is particularly beneficial for those making bookings well in advance.