Cheers to Travel Insurance

Why do you need it?

Because accidents and mishaps happen when you are least expecting them to. And most of them are out of our control. That’s why having travel insurance is very important. 

Now we aren’t saying that you will lose your luggage. Sustain injuries from a fall off a motorbike. Have your flight cancelled. Break your camera. Have something stolen. Or need to return home because a family member died, but you just never know! Ensuring you have all-purpose emergency travel insurance coverage that will cover you for a wide variety of accidents and mishaps is of great benefit. I would definitely suggest you don’t leave home without it. I’ve seen it help many. And I’ve also seen many others regret not purchasing it.

I used it a number of times. When I had luggage stolen in Holland. Had a flight cancelled in Mexico. Got sick while travelling Europe and needed a doctor. When my father died and I returned to Australia unexpectedly. Each time I was able to make a claim and be reimbursed (I didn’t always get everything back, but most of the time). I’ve seen it help friends in similar situations. I’ve also seen friends who have not taken out travel insurance and lost or had stolen big ticket items, such as a girlfriend who had her computer stolen and she had to pay out of her own pocket for a new one.

What to look for in a plan

Travel insurance can be complex and is often very confusing. It is wise to ask your travel agent to explain it to you. If buying from the Internet ensure you read it and understand what you are covered for. I know that is easier said than done. Redding the fine print can be laborious. But you should understand what you are covered for and for how much and for. Also, you should understand what you aren’t covered for.

Travel insurance should cover you for

Cancellation fees and lost deposits incurred by unforeseen circumstances which require you to cancel your trip;
Overseas medical, dental and emergency expenses;
Emergency flight home if required – this should mean to your home country;
Missed connections;
Hijack and kidnap;
Loss, theft or damage to your luggage;
Travel delay;
Accidental death;
Loss of income;
Personal liability;
Legal costs;
Electronic goods;
Working holidays;
Extreme sports – if you intend to participate in them.

Should you buy it before you go?

It is advisable to buy travel insurance before you go. However, it is nice to know that you can buy it during your travels when you need it. 

Recommended Providers

There are many insurance companies offering policies. One I recommend is World Nomads. Why? Here’s why.