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Comparing The Best Travellers Insurance Providers-What To Look For

May 23, 2024
Comparing The Best Travellers Insurance Providers-What To Look For

Planning a trip and looking for the best travel insurance provider? You don't want to end up with an inadequate policy that doesn't cover all of your needs or pay too much for coverage you don't need.

And without comparing multiple policies side-by-side, it's easy to miss out on important details or make an uninformed decision.
But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! We’ll help you find the perfect policy that meets your needs and budget.

With our comparison tool, you can easily compare multiple policies side-by-side to determine which insurance policy is right for you. You won't have to worry about missing out on any important details or making an uninformed decision - we'll make sure you get the best deal possible!

10 Questions When Searching For Travel Insurance

1: How much insurance coverage do I need?

To make sure you have enough protection while on your trip, it is important to consider factors such as how long you will be away and what activities you plan to do. You need to consider the type of coverage you will require, your age, and any additional activities you plan on doing.

It is also important to consider whether you will need coverage for emergency medical treatment, emergency evacuation and transportation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and more.

When searching for family travel insurance, there are several important factors to consider. Not all policies are created equal; therefore, it is essential to do research about the different types of coverage available and choose one that best meets the needs of your family.

One of the most important aspects of family travel insurance is covering your medical bills. Make sure to read the policy carefully and determine how much medical treatment coverage is provided. If you are travelling abroad, it is even more important to check what type of treatments will be covered and if there are any restrictions in place. It’s also a good idea to find out if pre-existing medical conditions are covered and what type of emergency services are offered.

Another important factor to consider when selecting a family travel insurance policy is the coverage for trip cancellations or delays. Make sure that there is sufficient coverage in case of unexpected issues such as medical emergencies, disasters, or flight cancellations. It’s also a good idea to find out how long the cancellation window is and if the policy covers nonrefundable deposits.

Your best bet may be to purchase a travelers insurance policy that covers all of these risks in order to make sure you are fully protected.
When choosing a travel insurance policy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice is to ensure that your policy covers you for all activities you may be undertaking while abroad. This means understanding what is included in your coverage, such as medical treatment, emergency evacuation, repatriation and legal expenses.

2: What types of emergencies are covered by travel insurance?

Generally speaking, good travel cover providers will cover emergency medical expenses in case of an emergency or illness while travelling abroad; trip cancellation and interruption due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather delays, natural disasters, and civil unrest; loss or damage to personal belongings; and accidental death or dismemberment.

Many policies will also include coverage for lost or delayed luggage, trip cancellation due to unexpected events such as illness (be sure to check which ones) or job loss.
Some policies may also cover rental car damage protection and financial default protection in case of an airline bankruptcy.

There are some optional benefits that can be added to a travel insurance policy such as coverage for extreme sports activities or pet transportation in the event of an emergency.

(Extreme sports are activities that involve a lot of danger, like skydiving and bungee jumping. Winter sports are activities that can be dangerous, like skiing or snowboarding. Travel insurance can cover these sports in case something goes wrong. It is important to choose the right travel insurance policy to make sure you have winter sports cover.)

Insurance policies can also provide coverage for other events such as legal assistance if you get into trouble with the law while on vacation. Additionally, some policies may offer additional coverage depending on where you’re going and how long your stay is.

3: Does the policy provide evacuation or repatriation coverage if needed?

Travel insurance policies will typically provide coverage for both evacuation and repatriation if needed, including any emergency travel document needed. This coverage is designed to protect travellers from unexpected and costly medical treatment, in addition to helping them get home in the event of an emergency.

Evacuation coverage is important for those who may travel to remote or dangerous locations, as it covers the cost of transportation to a safe and secure location. This coverage is especially useful in the event that you are injured, ill or need help due to natural disasters or political upheaval.

Repatriation coverage is designed to cover the costs associated with getting travellers home safely in the event of an emergency. It can include reimbursement for flight tickets, medical cover, repatriation of remains, and other related costs.

It is important to check the details of your travel insurance policy before you leave for your trip, as coverage for evacuation and repatriation can vary between policies.

4: Are there any exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions or dangerous activities?

Travel insurance companies will typically exclude you for pre-existing medical conditions or dangerous activities. When applying for travel insurance, most insurers ask if you have any pre-existing medical conditions as these can be a risk to cover.

Pre-existing medical conditions include but are not limited to chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, cancer and heart disease, and any other medical conditions that have been diagnosed or treated in the past.

This is to ensure that you are covered should something arise during your trip due to a pre-existing medical condition.

In addition, many insurers will exclude those engaging in dangerous activities such as skydiving, extreme skiing and bungee jumping from their coverage. This is to ensure that travellers engaging in activities like these are aware of the risks and take appropriate safety measures.

It is important to read your policy carefully and make sure you understand what is and isn't covered before purchasing a travel insurance plan. Make sure to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions or dangerous activities you plan on participating in during your trip so that you are sure to be covered in the event of an emergency.

If you have any questions about your coverage, it is best to contact the insurer directly and ask for clarification. This will ensure that you are adequately protected during your travels.

5: Does the insurer offer 24/7 customer service support and assistance while traveling abroad?

Travel insurance companies often offer 24/7 customer service support and assistance while travelling abroad. This is especially important for those who travel to countries where English is not the primary language, as it can be difficult to find help in an unfamiliar area.

With 24/7 customer service, travellers can easily get help anytime of day or night with any questions or concerns they may have. Many insurers provide multilingual customer service, so travellers can get the help that they need in their native language.

Many travel insurance companies also offer assistance for emergency medical treatment or legal issues while travelling abroad. This emergency assistance can include medical cover, lost or stolen items, legal fees and more.

With 24/7 customer service and emergency assistance, travellers can rest easy knowing that they are covered during their travels.

6: Will my belongings be covered if they are lost, stolen, or damaged during my travels?

Travel insurance cover usually offers optional baggage cover and gadget cover for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings during your travels. However, coverage levels may vary from policy to policy, so it is important to do your research and find out what kind of coverage you are getting.

The most common kind of travel insurance provides coverage for the losses incurred due to unexpected events, such as delays, cancellations, medical and repatriation costs, and more. It can also provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage during your travels. Depending on the policy you purchase, coverage limits may vary and could include reimbursements up to a certain amount of money for each item in your luggage.

For example, if you purchased travel insurance cover with a limit of $1,000 for lost or stolen possessions, you could be reimbursed up to that amount if any of your possessions were lost or stolen during your travels.

It is important to read the fine print and ensure that the belongings you are bringing on your trip are covered by your travel insurance policy before embarking on your journey. You should also keep in mind that some policies may not cover certain items such as jewelry, electronics, or cash.

By understanding the coverage limits and exclusions of your travel insurance policy, you can be sure that you are properly covered if any of your belongings were to be lost, stolen, or damaged during your travels.

7: Is trip cancellation and interruption insurance included in the policy terms?

Travel insurance policies typically provide coverage for a variety of unexpected contingencies, such as trip cancellations and interruptions. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance can be an invaluable asset for travellers who want to protect themselves from financial losses due to unforeseen events.

Such coverage will usually reimburse travellers for non-refundable expenses incurred in the event that their single trip is cancelled or interrupted due to an illness, injury, severe weather, natural disaster, terrorism, or other covered event. Before purchasing a holiday insurance policy, travellers should make sure that trip cancellation and travel disruption coverage is included in the policy terms.

It is important to read through the policy to understand exactly what is covered and what exclusions may apply. Travellers should also understand any limits or maximums associated with the coverage.

If trip cancellation cover and interruption insurance is important to you, make sure to carefully review the policy before purchase.

8: How long does it take to process a claim when travelling abroad ?

When you make a claim on your travel insurance, the time frame can vary depending on a few factors. For instance, the country you are in and the type of claim you are making will have an impact on how long it takes for a claim to be processed. Generally, most claims for medical costs or lost luggage will take about 3-5 business days to process. However, those with more complex claims or those traveling in a different country may take slightly longer.

It is also important to note that some claims may take longer than others due to the complexity of the claim or other factors. In such cases, you should consult with your insurer for more information on how long it will take for your particular claim to be processed.

In summary, the time it takes to process a successful travel insurance claim can vary, but most claims should take around 3-5 business days. To ensure your claim is processed as quickly as possible, be sure to provide all the relevant documents and information required by your insurer. And of course remember that the earlier you submit the paperwork and any supporting documentation, the faster the claim will be resolved.

In cases where the claim may take longer than usual, you should consult with your insurer for more details on how long it will take.

Need travel insurance? Compare the best travel insurance companies

9: Does travel insurance cover cancellation due to COVID 19

Travel insurance is a form of coverage that can provide financial protection for travellers in the event of unexpected emergency situations, such as illness or injury, lost luggage, and trip cancellation. With the recent COVID 19 pandemic, many travellers have become concerned about whether their travel insurance can cover them in the case of a cancellation caused by the virus.

In general, travel insurers will cover cancellations due to COVID 19 if the policy was purchased before the outbreak of the virus. The coverage will also depend on the individual provider and policy terms. For example, some providers may offer a full refund for cancellation due to COVID 19, while others may only provide partial coverage or no coverage at all.

It's important to read the fine print when it comes to travel insurance and cover for COVID 19, as some policies may exclude pandemic-related cancellations. It's also recommended that travellers check with their provider for specific details on their policy before purchasing travel insurance to ensure they understand what is covered in case of a cancellation due to the virus.

Though travel insurance may provide some security for travellers during this uncertain time, it's still important to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions when traveling. By following CDC recommendations and staying up-to-date on the latest developments regarding COVID 19, travellers can reduce their risk of becoming infected with the virus and ensure they're staying safe while on the road.

It's also important to always check with local authorities and health advisories before planning a single trip, as these can change quickly in light of current events and may affect travel plans.

10: How much will travel insurance cost?

The cost of travel insurance can vary greatly depending on a range of factors, such as the type of policy, the coverage provided, the duration of the trip, and the destination. Generally speaking, most basic travel insurance premiums will start at around $50 for domestic trips, although prices can go up significantly depending on the above factors.

For international trips, it's advised to opt for a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers a range of unexpected events, such as medical cover, trip interruption, and loss or damage of personal items. These policies can start at around $100 and may go up to several hundred dollars depending on the activities you plan to do and the duration of your trip.

Decide whether you're looking for single trip travel insurance or an annual multi trip policy. Single trip insurance will generally cost less, but annual multi trip policies may be the better option, as you'll be covered for any unexpected trips through the year.

When looking for travel insurance, it's important to compare different policies and providers to ensure you're getting the best coverage for your money. Be sure to read the fine print and understand what is covered (and not covered) before making a purchase.

With a bit of research and comparison shopping you can find an insurer that offers reliable coverage at an affordable rate - giving you peace of mind when travelling abroad.

The 5 Key Benefits of Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance when travelling abroad is a necessity, not only because it provides peace of mind in the event of emergency medical cover or illness while away from home, but also because it can offer numerous benefits. Here are five key benefits that come with having travel insurance:

Financial Protection: Having travel insurance is essential for protecting your finances in the event of a medical emergency abroad or unexpected flight changes. Most will offer medical expenses cover and provide compensation for lost or delayed luggage, as well as reimbursement for trip cancellations or interrupted trips.

Travel Assistance: In the event of an emergency while travelling, having travel insurance can make it easier to get help right away. Most policies provide 24-hour assistance for medical emergencies, lost luggage, flight cancellations and more.

Liability Coverage: Travel insurance covers liability frequently, which can protect you from financial responsibility if someone else incurs medical costs due to your negligence while abroad.

Theft & Accident Coverage: If you have to cancel a single trip due to theft or an accident, most holiday insurance will cover the cost of the cancellation.

Security: Knowing you are covered in case of an emergency can provide reassurance when travelling abroad. With the right policy, it’s possible to enjoy your trip worry-free, knowing that if anything goes wrong, you’re covered.

Having travel insurance is an essential part of any international trip or holiday and can provide security in the event of an unexpected incident while abroad. It can give you the financial protection you need, as well as access to 24-hour assistance.

Other Questions Answered

What's the difference between a EHIC card and a GHIC card?

An EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) and GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) are both medical insurance cards that are issued by the governments of European Union countries, as well as the United Kingdom, to provide access to health care services while abroad.
The EHIC is primarily for citizens travelling in other EU/EEA countries, while the GHIC is for citizens travelling elsewhere in the world. To be eligible for either card, you must be living in an EU country and have a valid passport.

The main difference between an EHIC and GHIC is that an EHIC allows you to receive medical treatment from public health care providers at reduced cost or sometimes free, while a GHIC typically only covers the cost of emergency medical care. Additionally, an EHIC also provides coverage for existing medical problems and necessary medical treatment while you are abroad. A GHIC does not provide this coverage.

Furthermore, an EHIC is valid for up to five years and can be renewed, while a GHIC is typically valid for one year and must be renewed each year. Lastly, an EHIC may not provide access to certain services that are available in your home country, such as dental care or ambulance services. A GHIC does not have this limitation.

In summary, the main difference between an EHIC and GHIC is the coverage they provide and their validity period. An EHIC offers more comprehensive coverage for medical treatment in EU/EEA countries, while a GHIC provides emergency health care costs around the world. Additionally, an EHIC has a longer validity period than a GHIC.

As a UK citizen can I get a GHIC Card?

Citizens of the United Kingdom can get a Global Health Insurance Card, which gives them access to medical coverage while travelling abroad. The card, known as the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), is issued by the UK government and allows holders to receive medical treatment in any country in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. In addition to providing access to medical care in the countries listed above, an EHIC also covers any transport costs incurred in order to receive treatment.

This can include ambulances, helicopters and stretchers. It is important to note that an EHIC will only cover you for necessary medical treatment while abroad, not any pre-existing medical issues. Furthermore, you will still have to pay for some of the treatment received, depending on the country visited.

It is important that all UK citizens travelling abroad carry an EHIC with them; without it, they may be refused access to public or subsidised healthcare in certain countries. The card

The GHIC card is an invaluable resource for citizens of the European Union, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. The GHIC allows those travelling within the EU to access healthcare services in other countries for free or at a lower cost. This means that travellers no longer need to purchase costly medical insurance policies for trips abroad. The GHIC is an important resource for all travellers, as it provides reassurance and a financial safety net in case of unexpected medical emergencies while travelling.

The card can also help reduce costs associated with necessary medical care while away from home. Furthermore, the GHIC may be used to access preventative healthcare services such as vaccinations, which can be essential for those travelling to certain parts of the world. In short, the GHIC Card is an invaluable resource for travellers in the EU and its associated countries.

Conclusion

When shopping for a travel insurance, it's important to compare travel insurance policies and providers in order to get the best coverage for your money. Be sure to read the fine print of each policy carefully so you understand what is covered (and not covered) before making any purchase.

With a bit of research and comparison shopping, you can find an insurer that offers reliable coverage at an affordable rate - giving you peace of mind when travelling abroad.

Having travel insurance can provide numerous benefits such as financial protection, theft & accident coverage, liability coverage and more - all while providing reassurance knowing that if anything goes wrong during your trip, you are covered. Remember too that the cheaper travel insurance option is fine, as long as your travel insurance cover is the right one for you and your family.

So, for those looking to purchase travel insurance, we advise weighing up your options and comparing travel insurance providers before making any decision. With the right cover in place, you can enjoy a trip worry-free!

Comparing The Best Travellers Insurance Providers-What To Look For

Rachel Lee

Having worked at Morgan Stanley and BNYMellon for over 10 years in pensions and investments, Rachel now works as a full-time business and financial writer.