Every traveler hopes for the best when taking a trip, but it's important to consider how you'll handle the unexpected. Travel accidents, medical emergencies, and other disasters may cause financial loss, even though no one wants to think about them. There are ways to reduce these risks, and stay on track while traveling.
How Does Travel Insurance Work?
Travel insurance comes in many different forms, each offering coverage for a specific trip or activity. You should choose the appropriate travel insurance to suit your needs and budget.
Coverage for pre-existing conditions
Most companies consider your medical history when deciding whether to approve a policy. The "look-back period" varies by company but is usually 90 days up to a full year. This is also important because you could be charged more if your condition was not disclosed during this period.
Flight cancellation and delay
The majority of comprehensive travel insurance policies cover cancellations or delays caused by illness, bad weather conditions or other unforeseeable circumstances. This coverage is invaluable, since it allows you to cover the cost of a hotel while you wait for your flight.
Loss of luggage and emergency assistance
You will need to go to the nearest hospital if your luggage is lost or if you require emergency medical treatment. Most comprehensive travel plans will cover these costs up to the limits of their policies.
Missed connection
When your travel plans go awry, missing a connecting flight can be a nightmare. If you are covered by trip insurance, then you can file for compensation if you miss a flight, a cruise, or any other form of transportation. You can use this coverage to pay for your hotel, meals and other expenses while you wait for your flight to be rescheduled.
Medical and dental emergencies abroad
If your health insurance covers you abroad but you need to pay for an expensive procedure or overnight stay up front, a travel insurance policy could help you cover the cost. This is an optional coverage that may or may not come with your insurance plan.
Accidental death
If you get sick or injured on your trip, you can use travel insurance to cover funeral costs. The insurance can help your beneficiaries get their money back.
Documentation of your claim is required, for example a medical statement or a statement issued by your airline. Your insurance company will check your medical records and reimburse you.
Purchasing travel insurance at the same time as your tickets is the best way to ensure you get the coverage you need for your trip. It's especially important if you are going on vacation or a tour.
Online or direct from an insurance company, you can purchase travel insurance
A policy can be purchased through many major travel agents. However, you can also get a policy at many banks, supermarkets and online retailers. Travel insurance can be purchased as part of a package from your travel agent, or as a separate purchase.