Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Planning that perfect escape away is always exciting. While you are dreaming of sun, sea and sand, the last thing you are planning for is to be struck down with illness or having to cancel your long-awaited holiday. Even trips that have been planned with military precision cannot foresee these incidents happening but unfortunately, they are a reality for many holidaymakers.

Travelling away from home and discovering new lands and cultures is exciting and can sometimes be a life changing experience with ever lasting memories. However, even in beautiful places unfortunate circumstances can occur, so having insurance that can take care of you in your time of need, although not a mandatory purchase, should certainly be considered.

Searching for perfect holiday cover can be overwhelming, particularly when you are bombarded with numerous quotes, you may feel spoilt for choice. However, whilst obtaining the best price is a priority to all of us, it is very important to understand the different policies available and what they offer. Medical expenses, repatriation service, trip cancellation, baggage cover and personal liability are just a few features that should be of high priority when seeking out travel insurance plans.

Worldwide Cover and European Health Insurance Cards

Whether you are planning a small getaway or backpacking around the globe, most insurers will have you covered but always check the small print before you commit. It sounds obvious, but mistakes are easily made when it comes to checking over intricate details that can be critical in your travel insurance policy.

If you are planning a European adventure then you can apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which will enable you to receive free medical treatment in a state-run hospital within the European Union. It is worth applying for the EHIC card as it can be invaluable in a medical emergency, however this should not be looked upon as travel insurance. It would be beneficial to consider having travel insurance that includes repatriation cover as these costs are not covered with the card alone.

We never know what life has in store for us, unforeseen circumstances can arise at any moment and unfortunately, they don’t wait until you have had your holiday of a lifetime. Travel insurance can be a real necessity when planning a break away, it is important to do your research and remember to always read the small print; be aware of the full terms and conditions of any policy before you sign on the dotted line.

Final tip: make sure you take out travel insurance at the time of booking your holiday. This way you will be covered immediately, for instance if you needed to cancel the holiday due to ill health.