Did you know you need Travel Insurance?

When planning a trip away, it's essential to consider travel insurance for added protection in case your holiday doesn't go as expected. This is especially crucial if you are traveling independently, as you could find yourself stranded without assistance to resolve any holiday-related issues.

For more insights on what to consider before purchasing a travel insurance policy, refer to this page.

Key Recommendations

• Travel insurance is a must, especially for independent travelers.

• Select a policy that caters to your specific needs.

• Compare policies based on coverage and cost.

• Check if your existing insurance covers you when away from home.

Importance of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance safeguards you against various unforeseen circumstances, such as:

• Having to cancel or shorten your trip due to uncontrollable reasons

• Missing transport or facing delayed departures beyond your control

• Medical emergencies and other urgent situations

• Personal injury, death, or accidents

• Loss, theft, or damage to belongings like baggage, passports, and money

• Accidental injuries or damages caused by you.

  
  

Without travel insurance, you may have to cover expenses out of pocket while away or risk losing money if you need to cancel your trip without reimbursement, potentially resulting in significant financial losses.

Where to Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is widely available, including at Skylinks Travel. Additionally, some banks or credit cards may offer it as an extra service, but it's advisable to assess the coverage and costs to determine if a standalone policy would be more suitable.

Considerations Before Buying Holiday Insurance

Ensure you get adequate cover by considering factors such as:

• Your travel destination; for instance, extra medical cover may be needed for trips to the United States

• Your age, as insurance costs may vary for individuals over 65, with specialized policies available for older travelers

• Your travel frequency; opting for an annual policy might be more cost-effective for frequent travelers

• Your planned activities; additional coverage may be required for risky sports like skiing or scuba diving

• Your travel mode; note that package holidays often offer more protection, potentially reducing the need for extensive travel insurance claims

• Your means of transportation; certain policies may not cover cruises or budget airline flights.

  
  

Essential Coverage in Travel Insurance

Your policy should always include coverage for:

• Medical expenses and repatriation in case of injury or illness abroad

• Personal injury and liability coverage

• Lost or damaged belongings

• Delayed or lost baggage

• Trip cancellation or missed departures.

The cost of insurance depends on your anticipated coverage needs. It's crucial not to underinsure yourself, although there are ways to manage costs effectively.

Thank you for your attention.

Was this information helpful? Feel free to ask for clarification where needed.

Please note that this article was originally authored by Citizens Advice in 2020.