How to Choose a Travel Insurance Policy

GUEST POST OVERVIEW: There are so many different types of travel insurance out there – each good for its own reason. Personally, I always used WorldNomads – but, I’ve never had to make a claim so I can’t speak to their quality. Fortunately, my friend Eva is here to share her advice on how to choose an insurance policy before your next trip. Take it away, Eva…

The Importance of Travel Insurance

We all know how important it is to make sure you get the right travel insurance policy for your needs, right?

Please be nodding your heads!

There is no excuse in the world not to have adequate travel insurance sorted out well ahead of time. Because, let’s face it, things in life can – and do – go wrong sometimes.

Naturally, it’s sod’s law that it will happen while you’re away from your usual surroundings. Good quality travel insurance is your comfort blanket in the event of a problem, and could end up saving you thousands in the event of a medical emergency.

How to Choose Your Policy

Now, it’s not as simple as just getting any old policy sorted out and hoping for the best. If you want the best price and the right cover for your needs, then it’s worthwhile shopping around and looking into your options.

For instance, are you thinking of only going away once within the year?

If that’s the case then a single trip policy is the way forward for you, and these are easily found and sorted out.

Of course, like any insurance, you must always remember to declare any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of arranging your cover; otherwise, you could find yourself out of cover if you need to claim and you have omitted any details.

For Frequent Travelers

On the other side of the spectrum, are you a frequent traveler, or planning to go away more than once?

Again, there is a different option for you and that comes in the form of a multi-trip policy, meaning you only need to arrange cover once for all your holidays. Check your one policy covers all the destinations you’re planning on visiting, and this means you only have to go through the process once.

For my Fellow Backpackers

Multi-trip isn’t the way forward for anyone planning on going backpacking.

In that case you need a specific type of cover, for a very specific and different kind of break! Backpacker insurance does have a few restrictions and perks, and it’s worthwhile being up to speed on all of them, so you can make sure you’re covered for all eventualities.

Generally this kind of insurance will cover you for a trip lasting up to two years, and you are allowed to head back home once, for anything up to 14 days, during this period of time, which is perfect if you’re wanting to visit the folks halfway through your break.

Parting Thoughts

These are the main types of insurance, however there are many different variations and slight alterations depending on your personal circumstances.

If you’re not sure, give your company a call and discuss your needs, as it’s always worthwhile tailor-making your cover for you, and you alone.