Travel Insurance – What It Might Cover

When going on vacation there are so many things to remember and consider but one thing that almost no one considers is travel insurance. No matter how good you are at planning a vacation there are unexpected things that can happen, and that is where travel insurance comes into play. It can compensate you for unforeseen emergencies. Depending on the length of stay and type of trip, there are several type s of travel insurance to choose from.

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption coverage-these policies cover vacation cancellations due to sudden illness or death, weather, emergency military duty, jury duty, prior to departure of cruise line or bankruptcy of airline. Many also include terrorism insurance that will reimburse your expenses in the event that the U.S. Department of State issues a travel warning. This warning will advise people not to travel within a certain country for a certain length of time.

• Medical emergencies-this is useful if you plan to travel to underdeveloped countries. It will also cover individuals who have a chronic illness that may require medical attention at some time during their trip. The policy will reimburse you for the cost of medications, doctor visits, and it may sometimes cover medical evacuation out of the country. Make sure you check with your insurance company regarding the details because travel health coverage polices vary.

• Non-refundable tickets-you may also be able to obtain travel insurance that will cover this in the event your trip has to be cancelled for many different reasons. There are some plans that will even cover missed connections. This can be a lifesaver if there is a flight delay, confusing or over crowded airport terminal.

• Comprehensive insurance package-this is a package for frequent travelers or longer trips. This package provides a variety of coverage and is the best value. Some of these packages will let you choose what type of coverage you want to include.

• Cruise ships-this can cover when a cruise is delayed and the traveler has to change their hotel reservations or the trip is cut short and you have to arrange a trip home at the last minute.

Other expenses or situations may also be covered, which can include:

• Having to be airlifted to a medical facility

• Cost of medical procedures if your health insurance is not recognized in the jurisdiction

• Hotel booking issues

• Paying for a hotel if your flight is delayed

• Replacing essential items when luggage is delayed or loss

• Errors in flight arrangements if the traveler was not at fault

• Emergency legal assistance

• Transportation if you need to return home due to emergency or death of close relatives