Do I need Trip Insurance?

Travel insurance is something people groan about all the time!
Since the cost of the insurance is based on the total cost of the trip (and your age), it is usually quoted last and a forgotten expense. So try to remember to include insurance in the vacation budget!

Why Would I Need It?

• Natural Disasters such as storms and hurricanes. Remember 2017? There were 10 hurricanes in the Atlantic with 6 of them being category 3 or more! Many countries in the Caribbean were affected and many vacations were canceled as a result.

• Illness or Injury - my friend stepped off a curb in Italy and broke her ankle. She needed  x-rays, an overnight stay in the hospital, and ultimately came home early. Most health insurance policies do not cover medical outside the US and they likely won't help pay to get you home. 

• Assistance in a foreign language - don't discount these services, even the smallest problem can be a big one if you can't tell anyone the problem. Travel insurance provides help communicating in the native language of the country you are visiting.

• Smaller Inconveniences - so maybe you're thinking there won't be a major problem. But even something small can ruin a vacation. My very active and healthy brother-in-law stepped on something sharp in the ocean and needed a tetanus shot. Totally unexpected! His vacation wasn't ruined, but it did require a visit to the medical facility on site as well as treatment.

• 24/7 Help - Insurance companies have people standing by in case of emergency. The agents are multilingual and available to help you handle all kinds of travel emergencies from finding local medical and legal professionals, arranging to send a message home, helping with missed connections and lost/stolen travel documents, and much more.

How much will it cost?
The cost of a policy is determined by age, level of coverage and cost of trip. There is no one size fits all when it comes to insurance coverage for a trip. For example, a domestic vacation may not require the medical benefits that you want with an international trip.  There are many choices of policies, so ask an insurance professional which plan is right for you.
Can I wait to buy it?
Generally speaking, if you want a pre-existing condition waiver included in the policy, you will need to purchase within 7-14 days of initial payment on your trip. Otherwise, you may purchase a policy up to 1 day prior to departure. It is in your best interest to purchase the policy as soon as possible so that the coverage begins before an emergency takes place. Again, each plan is different so be sure to know the specific terms of the policy you are considering.
What is Cancel For Any Reason?
Some companies offer cancel for any reason as an optional benefit. This type of coverage adds to the cost of the policy and you should check the reimbursement percentage, it can start at a mere 50%.  If you think that you may cancel for a reason not typically covered (think Zika scare a few years ago) then definitely consider looking into this option.
​Which Travel Insurance Companies do you recommend?
There are several reputable travel insurance companies available to you. I personally work closely with Travel Guard and Allianz. 

The most important benefit of travel insurance is peace of mind. It's tough to relax and fully enjoy your vacation if you're worried about hurricanes, getting sick, losing your passport or missing your flight. Choosing an insurance policy is a personal matter, everyone's needs are different and there is a policy for every need. I am happy to answer questions or refer you to a trusted partner who can help.