With half term looming and many looking to make the most of the first opportunity in 2022 to travel abroad, either on last minute holidays or rearranged trips, it is more important than ever that you have suitable travel insurance to protect you and your family in the event that something goes awry.
Given the pandemic, many people may not have travelled abroad for some time and may not have needed to purchase travel insurance for a number of years.
Having suitable travel insurance has never been more important and in the rush to finally get your bags packed and away on that long-awaited trip it may be something that you overlook but you may do that at your peril.
In the current climate as travel requirements change frequently it is vital to ensure that you have travel insurance and that your travel insurance policy is providing you with the cover you require.
Travel insurance that comes with your Bank Account
Travel insurance policies are often bundled with bank accounts and one might assume that the policy will suit your needs. However, it is important to read the terms and conditions of the policy to identify any gaps in coverage.
For example, many policies have an upper age limit which you may fall outside of. If this is the case, it is worth checking whether an additional premium can be paid to provide cover or whether you will need an entirely new policy from another insurer.
Bundled travel policies may not provide you with the winter sports or activity cover that you require for your trip. Again, it is worth checking the level, if any, of winter sports and activity coverage and whether additional coverage is required.
Does the policy cover everyone that is travelling? Do children need to be travelling with the account holder in order to benefit from the policy?
Does your insurance cover Pre-existing Medical Conditions?
When you apply for travel insurance online you generally have to answer questions on pre-existing health conditions. It is vital that you answer all questions truthfully as any omissions may cause a problem later if you require assistance. Not all health conditions will result in an additional premium being payable but should be listed on the policy in any event.
In some instances, you may need to pay an additional premium to ensure your pre-existing health issues are covered but it is advisable to do this rather than run the risk of having a dispute with your insurer when you need their urgent assistance.
Ensuring you have suitable cover will also give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your holiday.
Make sure your travel insurance covers your Valuables
Check what valuables are covered under your policy as the cost of electronic items alone such as phones and tablets can mount up quickly before you consider items such as jewellery and bags for instance not to mention sports equipment and specialist clothing. What is the single item value limit and is this sufficient for your needs? Do you have suitable alternative cover under a home contents policy that may cover these items when you are away from home and are those limits sufficient?
Check your insurance is valid at your Destination
When purchasing a travel policy make sure that it covers all the destinations to which you are travelling. Bear in mind that popular holiday destinations such as Turkey and Egypt are not in Europe. If you are planning an extended trip, what is the upper trip limit in days on the policy and is this sufficient particularly if your travel plans change and you are not in a position to return home when you had originally planned?
If you are planning on making multiple long trips during the coming year, will you exceed any limit that is set by the policy?
All these points are relatively easy to check either by reading the policy or you can always speak with your insurer to clarify queries with them.
It is well worth taking the time to make sure everything is in order.
Before going on a skiing holiday you check your clothing and equipment are in order and you should get into the habit of checking your insurance is in order and fit for purpose before you travel.
