Travel Insurance 101: Protecting Your Trip
Greetings, Wanderers!
This summer turned out to be challenging for my clients, with travel disruptions galore. Picture this: hurricanes, massive crowds, airline mishaps, and a sprinkle of late-summer illnesses—all combining to create a perfect storm of travel chaos. It’s a reminder that while booking your trip is a must, securing a travel insurance policy is equally essential.
I’ve seen firsthand how skipping insurance in favor of saving a few bucks can lead to far greater expenses when things go awry—like during a major airline meltdown. Trust me, the cost of insurance is a small price to pay compared to the financial hit of being unprotected. On my very first trip abroad, I learned the hard way that travel insurance is a must. With 12+ hour delays, lost luggage (for 4 days), and more – it was a recipe for disaster and I didn’t receive one cent back.
So, please, don’t skip this crucial step. Travel insurance isn't just about covering medical expenses; it offers protection against various scenarios you might not anticipate.
Here’s a rundown of what a good policy might cover (note that coverage can vary by plan and provider):
Lost documents, including passports
Weather-related delays and missed connections (trip interruption)
Family emergencies back home
Trip cancellation (with options for cancel-for-any-reason coverage)
Emergency evacuation
Baggage delays
Natural disasters
Many clients also ask about credit card protection. While credit cards can offer some coverage, it’s often limited. Check the specifics, such as coverage limits, whether pre-existing conditions are included, if family members are covered, and whether the trip must be paid in full with the card. For instance, Allianz, one of my trusted partners, offers coverage for around 44 scenarios, whereas general credit card coverage might only include about 12.
Keep in mind that travel insurance does have exclusions—such as alcohol-related incidents, simply changing your mind about the trip, waiting for delayed passports, or cruise itinerary changes.
As a reminder, I’m not an insurance agent, but I am here to guide you through the essentials. Travel insurance might not be the most thrilling part of your trip planning, but it’s one of the most important. It’s your safeguard against the unexpected and the unknown.
Let’s plan your next custom adventure by scheduling a 1:1 consultation!
Wine, Dine, and Wander!
~ Hannah
