Travel Insurance - When and How to Get It
Many people only remember to purchase travel / medical insurance close to their travel date. That is a major mistake! Insurance should be purchased the moment you book flights/cruises/tickets for shows/attractions/accommodations that are non-refundable. With most companies, you can and should purchase up to six months in advance.
Travel insurance gives us peace of mind and provides efficient, quick solutions in case of an unforeseen medical issue resulting from an accident or illness while abroad.
We arrive at our flight happy, in good spirits, and above all healthy, but there is no telling if and when a medical condition might strike, and certainly no telling if heaven forbid we might get into an accident that causes physical harm.
If any of these events occur, we will have to pay out of pocket for all medical expenses, ranging from a routine doctor's visit, through various medical tests, to more severe cases involving treatments or hospitalizations...
This can amount to thousands of dollars in minor cases and tens of thousands or more in complex situations.
When we hold international travel insurance, we ensure that if we ever need medical care, someone will cover these unforeseen costs.
Medical insurance covers emergency medical treatment, ambulance evacuation, required medical tests, and even hospitalization in private hospitals—essentially covering any medical expense incurred during the vacation.
Today, several insurance companies allow travelers to receive any of these treatments without having to spend a single dollar out of pocket; payment is transferred directly from the insurer (via a dedicated credit card or app).
A very popular add-on when purchasing travel insurance is "luggage coverage," which protects against loss or damage to personal items brought on the trip.
Baggage insurance covers the suitcase you brought along and its contents, such as clothing, personal belongings like watches, wallets, and the like... Unlike most other policy sections, this coverage activates the moment you leave for the airport, even before boarding your flight.
Note that mobile phones and laptops are not covered under basic plans; the baggage policy must be extended specifically so the insurance provider covers these items as well.
Travel insurance includes a wide variety of optional riders, so it is important to consult a professional to tailor the extensions to your specific needs and travel style.
Travel insurance can include, among others, coverage for:
COVID-19
Extreme or winter sports
Cell phone / Laptop
Cancellation / Curtailment due to a medical condition
Rental car abroad, and more
So where is the best place to get insurance?
Great question. It is recommended to speak with a professional, licensed insurance agent who can first and foremost compare multiple companies to find the best rate tailored to the specific coverages you need.
An agent knows how to customize a package tailored to your destination and planned activities, and above all serves as a direct point of contact for emergencies or complex, unusual claims.