“Do I need travel insurance?” That is a question I get asked a lot, and I’m sure it is something you have asked yourself before taking a trip. The answer is, it depends. The type of trip you are planning to take will help determine whether or not you need travel insurance and what type you need. If you’re taking an extravagant two-week safari through Africa, travel insurance would be a good idea. If you’re just taking a long weekend trip to the beach, you might not need it at all. Below I’ve outlined six important things to know before you buy travel insurance.
1. Your Credit Card Might Be Enough
Some credit cards will provide you insurance on things like canceled flights, hotels, and lost baggage. If you book the entire trip with your card, you may be covered under their policy, so be sure to check with your credit card company first.
2. Trip Cancellation Insurance Only Covers Select Reasons
Trip cancellation has been a major topic of discussion in the travel industry this year. Travel insurance will cover your canceled trip if you fall ill, there’s a natural disaster, a death in the family, or you lose your job. Things like switching jobs and changed minds will not be covered.
3. You Might Be Covered Under Your Health Insurance
If you’re worried about your health and safety while traveling, your health insurance might be sufficient enough. Just make sure that your health insurance provider has people in the network wherever you are going.
4. Your Electronics Might Not Be Covered
Broken phones and stolen laptops can happen anywhere, but unless you’re covered by AppleCare or something similar, travel insurance will not replace your damaged or missing items.
5. Alcohol-Related Mishaps Are Typically Excluded
Kicking back with a cold drink is part of the vacation experience, but having one too many can ruin your trip. Most travel insurance policies exclude coverage of alcohol-related incidents while on vacation, so keep an eye on your flight while at the airport bar!
6. It’s Not As Expensive As You Think
When most people hear the word insurance, they immediately think it will be a massive expense. There are different coverage levels, so it can be very affordable, depending on what you need. Be sure to check with your health insurance and credit card company before you make any decisions!
If you still have questions about travel insurance or are interested in booking a trip, contact me today to learn more at jim@ameshilltravel.com. your Memories Await!
