Things to consider when comparing travel insurance

Health Insurance

Covering medical expenses overseas can prove very costly, Travel insurance will provide cover so that these expenses can be made. Some policies will offer you £1m for Europe and £2m for the US. These policies should also protect you against the cost of being flown back home – repatriation – should you be affected by a medical emergency.

Your age and your health should also be taken into consideration when comparing policies.

Trip cancellation and delays

Very often things don’t go to plan, and you might have to cancel or postpone your trip but have already paid up- front for your accommodation and can’t reclaim this cost. Most insurers, if they agree that the circumstances are beyond your control, will offer you £2,000 or more to cover these costs.

Most insurers will help with compensation for any additional costs you may incur with £500 or more as long as you can prove that the delay or cancellation isn’t your fault.

Length of your trip

Different insurers offer different timescales for your travel. A single trip policy will insure you for a maximum of 180 days, but this figure does vary from company to company. Multi trip cover also varies from 31 to 91 days. The same rules apply for worldwide cover so please check the policy before booking

Loss and theft

If you’re waiting at the airport baggage carousel and your goods are missing, they may have been lost, damaged stolen. Your policy will provide compensation of £1,500 or more but this does depend on you reporting this loss within an allotted timeframe and providing airline confirmation to present to your insurer, if you believe they are responsible for the loss. Make sure you check all the Ts & Cs as policies do vary on the amounts they’ll offer you as compensation.

If you’re carrying cash or travellers’ cheques or credit cards and you lose these, or they are stolen your policy should compensate you for this loss. The amounts vary but all policies stipulate that you must report the loss or theft to the local police within 24

hours. You should also cancel your credit/debit cards so they cannot be used in any type of fraud

Coverage Inclusions and Exclusions

It's crucial to understand what is covered and what is not covered by the travel insurance policy. Common inclusions may consist of trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, flight delays, and personal liability. Equally important are the exclusions, which can include pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities, and incidents related to alcohol or drug use. Ensure the policy meets your specific travel needs and covers the activities you plan to engage in.

Medical Coverage and Emergency Assistance

Medical emergencies can be extremely costly, especially when traveling abroad. Check the extent of medical coverage provided, including hospital stays, emergency treatments, and evacuation services. Ensure the policy includes 24/7 emergency assistance, which can provide support and guidance in the event of a medical crisis. Also, consider whether the coverage amount is sufficient for the destination you're visiting, as medical costs can vary significantly between countries.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

Trip cancellation and interruption coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, natural disasters, or other emergencies. Look for policies that offer comprehensive protection, covering a wide range of potential issues that could disrupt your travel plans. This is particularly important if you've made significant non-refundable bookings or if your travel plans are complex.

Policy Limits and Deductibles

Be aware of the policy limits and deductibles associated with your travel insurance. Policy limits refer to the maximum amount the insurer will pay out for a covered event, while deductibles are the amounts you are responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance kicks in. Evaluate these figures to ensure they align with your financial comfort level and provide adequate protection without excessive out-of-pocket expenses.

Customer Service and Claim Process

The quality of customer service and the ease of the claim process are critical factors in choosing travel insurance. Research the insurer's reputation for handling claims efficiently and fairly. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers to gauge their experiences. A responsive and supportive customer service team can make a significant difference in how smoothly any issues or claims are resolved during your trip.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a travel insurance policy that provides the right level of protection and peace of mind for your journey.