We all know that having travel insurance in place ahead of a trip is recommended, but what might not be so obvious is why this is actively advantageous for any globetrotting you’ve got planned in the near future.
To remedy this, here’s an overview of its upsides and the situations in which it will serve you well when you’re on the move.
Unforeseen Medical Emergencies
Health issues can throw a wrench into any trip, and so the likes of Chubb travel insurance packages offer peace of mind by covering medical expenses that could otherwise skyrocket, in addition to providing specific support based on your circumstances.
Insurance will be a lifeline if:
- A sudden illness lands you in a foreign hospital
- You require emergency dental treatment after an accident
- Chronic conditions unexpectedly worsen and need immediate attention
Insurance plans often cover doctor visits, hospital stays, and medication costs. They sometimes include evacuation if local facilities can’t handle your condition. This gives you the confidence to be bold in your journeys without fear that a health snafu will bankrupt you.
Trip Cancellations and Interruptions
Life’s unpredictability can disrupt travel plans. Comprehensive insurance covers non-refundable expenses if trips are canceled or interrupted.
This will be useful if:
- You need to cancel due to illness before departure
- A family emergency requires an immediate return home
- Severe weather forces a delayed flight, derailing connections
Policies often reimburse prepaid costs like flights and accommodations, saving your wallet from unforeseen cancellations. As such you can enjoy planning your adventure with less anxiety about what might go awry.
Lost Luggage and Personal Belongings
Misplaced bags and lost items can derail your travel experience, and 26 million items of luggage go walkabouts annually, so it’s a likely scenario. Travel insurance helps recover or replace what’s missing.
Comprehensive policies will be useful if:
- Checked luggage doesn’t arrive at your destination
- Your backpack goes missing on a train ride
- Valuables get stolen from your hotel room
Coverage usually includes compensation for essential purchases when baggage is delayed, and reimbursement for lost or stolen goods. This means you don’t have to face the inconvenience of being stranded without necessities.
Adventure Activities Coverage
Adventurous pursuits add thrill to travel, and we spend $683 billion on this type of trip each year, but there are additional risks involved. Some insurance plans include coverage for activities that involve more risk.
Making sure that your cover includes this is a good idea if:
- You’re planning to go skiing in the Alps
- Scuba diving is on your itinerary in tropical waters
- Bungee jumping calls your name during a trip to New Zealand
Check that your policy covers these adrenaline-packed adventures. Medical expenses or equipment loss associated with such activities often require specific coverage, so knowing you’re protected allows you to embrace the excitement fully and safely.
Final Thoughts
Put simply, travel insurance is better seen as the key to worry-free overseas excursions, rather than a pointless burden on your budget. With a policy in place from a reputable provider, you’ll be able to jet off safe in the knowledge that you are protected against all eventualities.
