Travel insurance – what it might cover
When going on vacation there are a lot of things to remember and take into consideration but one thing that almost no one thinks about is travel insurance. No matter how well you plan a vacation, there are unforeseen things that can happen, and that’s where travel insurance comes in. It can compensate you for unexpected emergencies. Depending on the length of stay and type of trip, there are several types of travel insurance to choose from.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Coverage – These policies cover vacation cancellation due to sudden illness or death, weather, emergency military service, jury duty, prior to departure of the cruise line or bankruptcy of the airline. Many also include terrorism insurance that will reimburse you for your expenses in the event the US State Department issues a travel advisory. This warning will advise people not to travel within a certain country for a certain period of time.
• Medical Emergencies – This is useful if you are planning to travel to underdeveloped countries. It will also cover individuals who suffer from a chronic illness that may require medical attention at some point during their trip. The policy will reimburse you for the cost of medications and doctor visits, and may sometimes cover medical evacuation out of the country. Be sure to check with your insurance company regarding the details because travel health coverage policies vary.
• Non-refundable tickets – You may also be able to get travel insurance which will cover this if your flight is canceled for many different reasons. There are some plans that will even cover missed connections. This can be a lifesaver if there is a flight delay or a confusing or crowded airport terminal.
• Comprehensive Insurance Package – This is a package for frequent flyers or long haul trips. This bundle offers a wide variety of coverage and is the best value. Some of these packages will let you choose what type of coverage you want included.
• Cruise Ships – This can cover when the cruise is delayed, the traveler has to change hotel reservations or cut short the trip and you have to arrange a ride home at the last minute.
Other expenses or situations may also be covered, which can include:
• You must be airlifted to a medical facility
• The cost of medical procedures if your health insurance is not recognized in the jurisdiction
• Problems booking hotels
• Pay for a hotel if your flight is delayed
• Replacement of essential items when baggage is delayed or lost
• Errors in flight arrangements if the traveler is not at fault
• Emergency legal assistance
• Transportation if you need to get home due to an emergency or the death of a close relative