You packed sunscreen, list of emergency contacts, called the pet sitter and put a hold on your mail. But, did you think about protecting yourself, your credit cards and your travel expenses?
Enter: Travel Insurance.
Canceled flights? Stolen credit cards? Medical emergency? Stolen property? Yes, you can be covered for all of these unexpected situations.
While travel insurance was originally meant to protect travelers from theft, over time it has morphed to cover costs of canceled flights, hospital treatments, and other unexpected costs. But you need to understand how this kind of insurance works in order to be prepared fully for your travels.
Travel Insurance and Trip Cancellation
First up: how much does Travel Insurance cost? Premiums are based on many variables. Length of the trop, cost of the trip, and age of travelers are just a few examples. Cancelation is usually covered, but terms will vary between insurance companies. Requirements for filing a claim also vary between companies, but typically receipts and proof of the original planned event is needed.
Travel Insurance and Medical Expense Coverage
What if you get sick, injured, or have some other unexpected medical situation? You can get travel medical coverage, which will pay for the cost of treatment, hospitalization and other medical costs that are not covered by your typical health insurance. Think about this: a traveler’s PPO or HMO might not be accepted by an out-of-country (or even out-of-state) hospital or medical facility. If you need an emergency flight back to the United States, the cost can be in the thousands. The longer the trip, the more essential medical coverage becomes. This pays for the costs of treatment and hospitalization where a traveler’s normal health insurance policy won’t kick in.
Travel Insurance Add-Ons
Foreign funeral? Terrorist attack or kidnapping ransom? Baggage loss? Rental car liability? Many insurance companies offer dozens of types of add-on coverages. The VITI Companies has an in-house, dedicated Travel Insurance expert who will be happy to answer your questions.
