Why You Need Travel Insurance

I want to have a heart-to-heart chat about something incredibly important for every traveller out there – travel insurance.

Now, I know it might seem like one of those “just in case” things, but trust me, it’s an absolute must-have for any adventure, and I’m here to tell you why.

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Why You Need to Get Travel Insurance

There are so many reasons, but these ones are the top of the list.

Travel Insurance is Your Ticket to Peace of Mind

Let’s face it, when you’re planning your dream trip, the last thing on your mind is something going wrong. We’re all caught up in the excitement of exploring new places, tasting exotic foods, and meeting incredible people.

But here’s the deal, life can be unpredictable, and you never know when a curveball might come your way.

And it doesn’t have to be a huge thing either. During our gap year, my husband’s phone stopped working. It was a work phone, so could not be replaced until we returned to Australia.

All was fine, as I still had my phone to use for navigation, translation, calls, internet, photos, and the myriad of other things we use our phones for.

But then, I dropped my phone, shattering the screen. Now life was much trickier, navigating around Eastern Europe with a phone I couldn’t read.

Thankfully, I had travel insurance, so the next time I was in a place with an Apple Store, I was able to get it repaired, without paying out hundreds of dollars.

Emergencies Happen – Be Prepared

Imagine this: you’re in a foreign country, surrounded by unfamiliar faces and unable to communicate due to a language barrier. Suddenly, you fall ill or have a minor accident. It’s a stressful situation, right?

Now, picture this: you have travel insurance. A quick call, and you’re connected to professionals who can guide you to the nearest hospital or clinic where they speak your language. Plus, your medical expenses are covered. That’s peace of mind right there!

I’ve been in this exact situation. It was right at the start of a family holiday, we were in Singapore and I had a DVT scare.

Thankfully all was okay, but because I had travel insurance, I did not hesitate to get medical advice. I soon got the all clear, and could go on with the rest of my trip without worry.

Lost Luggage or Cancelled Flights

Ever had your luggage lost or flights cancelled? It’s a traveller’s nightmare. But with travel insurance, you’re not left high and dry.

Your policy can provide compensation for your lost belongings and even cover additional expenses caused by flight delays or cancellations. That means you can keep your cool and focus on enjoying your adventure.

Yes, I’ve been here too! Thankfully I didn’t have to make a claim as my luggage turned up on the same flight a day later, but I did pull out my policy and check the rules so I knew what the process was. I knew I would be covered if I needed it.

Unforeseen Events – The What-Ifs

Life loves to throw us curveballs. What if you need to cancel your trip due to a family emergency? What if a natural disaster strikes your destination? Remember that little ‘ole pandemic? (Although most policies won’t cover that now)

Travel insurance can be your safety net in these situations, helping you recoup non-refundable expenses and ensuring you’re not left financially strained.

Thankfully, when the pandemic hit, I only had one domestic flight booked which was quickly credited, but again, just having the insurance made the whole process less stressful.

Adventures Can Get Risky

Now, I’m all for embracing adventure, but some activities carry inherent risks. Whether you’re planning to go skydiving, scuba diving, or hiking in the wilderness, travel insurance can provide coverage for unexpected mishaps.

It’s like having a guardian angel on your shoulder while you’re out there having the time of your life.

Stress-Free Exploration

When you’re exploring the world, the last thing you want is to stress about the “what ifs.” Travel insurance is your ticket to worry-free exploration.

With it, you’re not just protecting your investment; you’re safeguarding your well-being and peace of mind.

You are also protecting your family, who would likely be the ones who would have to come to your aid if something does go wrong. More than once I’ve read stories about family members having to sell their house to pay for international health care.

Choose Wisely

Now, I know it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option out there but remember, not all travel insurance policies are created equal. Not all policies suit everyone either. Take the time to choose the cover right for you.

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance

But how to choose the right travel insurance policy? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of choosing the perfect plan.

Just like picking the right destination or packing the essentials, selecting the right insurance is a vital part of your journey. So, let’s break it down.

Timing is Key

First things first, when should you purchase travel insurance? Well, the golden rule is to grab it as soon as you start booking your trip. Why, you ask? Because it can provide coverage for unexpected events that might pop up even before you’ve packed your suitcase.

Imagine this scenario: You’ve paid for your flights, accommodations, and tours, and then, out of the blue, a family emergency forces you to cancel your trip. Without insurance, you might be waving goodbye to your hard-earned cash.

But if you’ve got your policy in place when you start booking, you’ve got that safety net from day one.

Consider Your Needs

Now, let’s talk about what to consider when choosing travel insurance. Not all travellers have the same needs, right? And different types of trips need different types of insurance.

So, it’s essential to tailor your insurance to your specific adventure. Here’s a checklist to help you get started:

1. Coverage Type: Determine what types of coverage you need. This could include medical, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and more. Your destination and activities will play a role in this decision.
2. Destination: Some places may require special coverage due to health risks or political instability. Make sure your policy aligns with your chosen destination.
3. Activities: If you’re planning adventurous activities like skydiving, scuba diving, or skiing, check if your policy covers these. Some extreme sports may require additional coverage. You may also need to add to the policy if you are going on a cruise or hiring a scooter.
4. Duration: Are you going on a short getaway or a long-term adventure? Make sure your insurance suits the duration of your trip.
5. Pre-existing Conditions: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, ensure they are covered. Some policies may require extra documentation or a higher premium.
6. Cost vs. Coverage: It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but don’t sacrifice coverage for a few bucks. Balance your budget with the level of protection you need.
7. Exclusions and Fine Print: Read the policy thoroughly. Be aware of exclusions, deductibles (excess), and any limitations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to clarify any doubts.
8. Provider Reputation: Do your research on the insurance company. Look for reviews and ratings to ensure they have a good track record of assisting travellers when things go sideways.

Shop Around

Just like you would compare flight prices or hotel options, shop around for insurance quotes. Different providers offer various plans, and the devil is in the details. Compare not only prices but also coverage limits and benefits.

I have been using Cover-More (Australian insurance) for the last few years. It is certainly not the cheapest, but it suits my travel.

For people in other parts of the globe, or even those not in their home country, World Nomads or Visitors Coverage are both popular.

Travel Insurance: Your Travel Buddy

Remember, travel insurance isn’t just an add-on; it’s your travel buddy. It’s the reassuring voice in your ear, saying, “I’ve got your back.” So, don’t rush this decision. Take the time to choose the right policy, one that suits your adventure like a glove.

Once you’ve got it sorted, you can embark on your journey with confidence, knowing that no matter what curveballs life throws at you, you’re prepared. So, here’s to smart planning, epic adventures, and the peace of mind that comes with having the perfect travel insurance in your corner.

Just Get the Travel Insurance!

I can’t stress this enough – travel insurance is not an optional extra; it’s a must-have for your adventures. It’s your safety net, your guardian angel, and your peace of mind rolled into one.

So, before you embark on your next journey, make sure you’ve got travel insurance in your backpack. It’s the best travel companion you’ll ever have.

Stay safe, stay smart, and keep exploring this beautiful world.

Before you go…
Keep planning your trip by reading these next
What to Do When Your Flight Gets Cancelled
What to Expect at the Airport
6 Ways to Save Money on Travel

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