Travel insurance is an important but often overlooked part of your vacation. Whether you are traveling to a foreign country or the next state, you should consider travel insurance.
Some of the reasons to take out insurance are to cover medical expenses, life insurance for your family or travel insurance in case something goes wrong.
If you have health insurance, please check with your insurer for details on your intended travel destination.
You can purchase health insurance for the duration of your trip or for longer periods. Some travel insurance policies cover multiple trips of a certain duration. Some will cover you for travel for up to a year.
Are you planning a ski or mountaineering vacation? You may want to consider evacuation insurance. If you need to be bailed out, chances are you'll end up with a hefty bill for the service.
If you're going on a cruise, organized tour, or just flying on a plane, you may want trip cancellation insurance. You or a family member may get sick at the last moment, or your plans may change unexpectedly.
Many companies do not offer refunds and you could lose thousands of dollars. There are many things that are out of your control that can ruin your plans. Refunds are sometimes hard to come by.
Other popular coverages include lost baggage, delayed baggage, delayed travel, dental care, 24-hour travel assistance, and accidental death.
If you are traveling abroad, be sure to check with your auto insurer. Purchase any additional coverage you need. You may want to inquire about an international roadside assistance policy.
Car breakdowns and accidents are already bad enough at home, but the problems are compounded abroad.
Check with your credit card company. You may have some coverage if you use your card to purchase your vacation.
If you are traveling with a group, you may be able to be insured more cheaply as a group than individually.
Sometimes you pay more for less coverage when you buy it through a travel agent who earns a good commission. That's not always the case, but it's your money. Look for the best offer.
