As summer holidays draw millions of Britons to Europe, a new survey reveals a concerning lack of awareness about accessing emergency contraception abroad. According to a LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor study of 1,000 adults, 60% of Brits are unaware of the rules for buying emergency contraception in Europe, despite 45% admitting to having unplanned sex while away. 1 in 8 (12%) reported they have needed the morning-after pill during a holiday.

The survey highlights risky behaviours, with 50% of men admitting to unprotected sex on holiday compared to 32% of women. A third of Brits have had a holiday fling at least once, yet only one in five consistently pack contraception. Cost is a significant barrier for younger travellers, with 40% of Gen Z respondents deterred from buying emergency contraception due to price. A quarter are unsure of the actual cost, while one in 10 aged 18–24 wrongly believe it costs between £30 and £50 in the UK.

Dr Bhavini Shah, GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, says: “Emergency contraception is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, but there are still some real barriers to access. Planning ahead and understanding your options, both in the UK and abroad, can make a big difference in feeling confident and prepared while travelling.”

Emergency contraception costs vary widely across Europe. In the UK it is free, but abroad the levonorgestrel pill (LNG) averages €14.10 for tourists, while ulipristal acetate (UPA) averages €25.74. Ireland is the most expensive, with LNG at €40.47 and UPA at €57.82. Malta charges up to €37.94 for UPA. France is the only country offering free emergency contraception to both citizens and tourists.

Dr Shah notes: “The reality is that accessing emergency contraception abroad can be unexpectedly costly, and for many travellers, especially younger people or those on a budget, that can be a serious obstacle. Planning ahead by understanding local rules and bringing contraception, like condoms or oral contraceptives, with you can help avoid stressful and potentially expensive situations while you are away. Practising safer sex, including consistent condom use, regular testing, and open communication with partners, is key to reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancy.”

Access rules differ by country

• LNG is available over the counter in supermarkets or drugstores in Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Norway (18+ only).
• In Ukraine, a prescription is required officially, but it is often sold over the counter in practice.
• In Cyprus, only UPA is available over the counter.
• Free emergency contraception for younger travellers is available in Germany, Ireland, Italy (with prescription), Belgium, and Luxembourg through ID-based subsidies.

Language barriers also pose challenges, with 13% of Brits saying they would avoid purchasing emergency contraception abroad due to communication difficulties. Dr Shah advises: “Beyond the cost, one of the biggest challenges people face when trying to access emergency contraceptive pills abroad is simply knowing the rules, where to get it, whether it is available over the counter, and if age or prescription requirements apply. These differences can be confusing and stressful in the moment, which is why doing a bit of research before you travel can make all the difference.”

What travellers should do

• Research local laws on emergency contraception in their destination.
• Pack contraception, including condoms and morning-after pills, before travelling.
• Learn key phrases to request emergency contraception in the local language.
• Check if online pharmacies offer emergency contraception in the destination country.

With 10% of men admitting to panic-buying condoms abroad, preparation remains crucial. Understanding Europe’s diverse rules and costs helps ensure safer holidays and avoids unnecessary stress.