Global Work & Travel has released a global snapshot of ambulance fees for tourists across 15 popular destinations – revealing stark differences between free, affordable care and bills that could rival the cost of a luxury holiday.
“Many travellers assume emergency help is free – until they get the bill,” says Jessie Chambers, travel expert at Global Work & Travel. “Ambulance costs vary wildly between countries and often aren’t covered by standard insurance.”
Ambulance Costs for Tourists by Country
| Country | Estimated Cost (Tourist) | Emergency Number |
| USA | $950–$1,300 (ground); $10,000+ (air) | 911 |
| Canada | CAD 321–650 (approx. £190–£390) | 911 |
| Australia | AUD 650–2,000+ (varies by state) | 000 |
| New Zealand | Free for emergency transport | 111 |
| United Kingdom | Free (NHS covers tourists) | 999 |
| France | Mostly free; partial co-pay (reimbursed) | 15 |
| Germany | €150–€300+ depending on region | 112 |
| Italy | Free for emergency (EHIC/GHIC); €25–€50 non-emergency | 118 |
| Spain | Free for emergency; €20–€120 private/non-emergency | 112 |
| Japan | Free transport; pay for hospital treatment | 119 |
| Thailand | Approx. 2,500 baht (around £55) | 1669 |
| Mexico | Free public ambulances; private £50–£300+ | 911 |
| UAE (Dubai) | AED 600–1,200 (approx. £120–£240) | 998 |
| South Africa | R450–R4,000+ (approx. £20–£180) | 10177 |
| Hong Kong | Free public ambulance | 999 |
Note: Costs are estimates and vary depending on distance, severity, and private vs public service use.
Why This Matters
- In the USA, a short ambulance ride can exceed $1,000 – even without hospital admission.
- In Germany and Australia, tourists often pay out of pocket unless covered by specific insurance.
- Countries like the UK, France, and Japan offer emergency transport for free or heavily subsidised.
- Private providers are common in Mexico, Thailand, and the UAE – meaning higher fees if you’re directed away from public services.
Essential Safety Tips for Tourists
- Save the local emergency number in your phone before travelling.
- Check if your travel insurance includes ambulance cover – especially air ambulance or private transport.
- Don’t assume it’s free – even public systems may bill non-residents.
- Ask for public service when possible – private ambulances often cost significantly more.
- Download offline translation and location apps in case of communication barriers.