What exactly is travel insurance? Why should I buy travel insurance? Is it really worth the money? These are common questions travelers may have about travel insurance. Let’s go through each of these to help you decide if travel insurance is the right choice for you. I’ll include a FAQ section at the end to answer any other questions you may have.
What is Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance can help protect against losing unused prepaid non-refundable deposits, help if an emergency occurs while you’re on your trip and help with lost luggage or flight delays. It helps protect from unexpected disruptions like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel delays. Use travel insurance for traveling domestically or internationally. It’s a protection against the “what-ifs”.
Why Should I Buy Travel Insurance?
- You or a family member is too sick to travel.
- A terrorist act has occurred where you plan to travel.
- Your wallet, credit cards, passport were stolen.
- Your luggage went on a different vacation than you.
- Missed connection due to flight delay.
- You need to return home before end of trip due to family emergency.
Plans change; things happen.
Is It Really Worth the Money?
Travel insurance isn’t as expensive as you may think. Peace of mind is well worth it. You may not plan on cancelling; you may be determined to travel no matter what. No one ever plans to cancel a trip. We can’t predict what will happen. (that would be nice though!) What if there was a sudden death, illness or injury in the family? Or an event that occurs that is out of your control, ie: cruise line or travel supplier goes bankrupt before your trip? Having travel insurance will help you recoup your travel investment.
Some of the Covered Benefits
*Trip cancellation *Trip delay *Itinerary change
*Emergency medical *Baggage delay/loss
FAQ
1. When should I purchase insurance?
You should purchase insurance as soon as possible after making your first deposit for your trip. Within 14 days is best. There are time-sensitive features that may include the waiver for the Pre-Existing conditions exclusion or Cancel for Work reasons.
2. I already have coverage through my credit card or health insurance.
These plans often have limited benefits. For example, they may not cover emergency medical transport home or provide coverage for international care. Often, they only cover the cardholder and not family members.
3. How much does travel insurance cost?
The cost varies based on factors like trip length, destination, traveler age, and overage limits. On average, it ranges from 4% to 10% of the total trip.
4. Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by policy. Some insurers offer waivers for pre-existing conditions if you purchase the insurance within a specific timeframe after booking your trip.
5. What should I consider when choosing a travel insurance policy?
Consider the coverage limits, exclusions, and specific needs of your trip. Compare policies to find the one that best suits your requirements.
6. How do I make a claim?
Document everything, keep all receipts and get a doctor’s note when necessary. Then contact me and I’ll help you through it!
Conclusion
Yes, I believe travel insurance is well worth the money. You never know what will happen before or during your trip, hopefully nothing!! I buy travel insurance before each of my own trips, giving me peace of mind if anything does happen.
My preferred travel insurance group is Arch RoamRight. You can follow this link to buy your own insurance (I will get commission if you use this link). I can also help you!
About Me
Hi! I am Amber Johnson, a travel advisor based in Ottawa, Kansas, specializing in European getaways, family vacations, domestic travel, and all-inclusive packages. What began as planning trips for my own family and friends has grown into a career I love, helping clients design stress-free, memorable adventures all over the world.
