Do You Need Travel Insurance? Pros, Cons & Real-Life Scenarios

Woman With Broken Arm

As an avid traveler myself, having visited numerous destinations both domestically and internationally, I understand the importance of travel insurance, particularly in today's political, hurricane, and terrorist climate. Let's take a moment to discuss a few key factors pertinent to exploring. What good would I be as your travel agent if I didn’t take the necessary steps to provide you with all travel information, allowing you an informed opportunity to book and successfully visit your dream destination? Herein, I’ll discuss four topics you may not have known about travel insurance from a pin to an anchor.

Do we need travel insurance?

Travel Insurance

First, let me define travel insurance so you are aware of what we are discussing in detail. According to “Investopedia”(n.d.), travel insurance is “an insurance product designed to cover the costs and losses, and reduce the risk associated with unexpected events you might incur while traveling.” Now, what does that mean? You may be wondering, in layman’s terms, what coverage and protection are provided for you during travel, right? Now the question is, is it needed? Forbes online covered an article in which Geoffrey Morrison, after experiencing a less-than-adventurous ordeal, deemed it worth it. Of course, it all depends on what happens during your vacation, how you seek the covered amount, and you may face uphill battles, he lamented.

Is there a travel insurance app?

Read Your Policy

Yes, there are a few out there, but those that actually work include the following: one is provided in the United States, Allianz Global Assistance Travel App. Whilst two are Australian-based yet accessible, Tripwise and Travel Guard. They are all a quick means to an end, allowing you to view your policy in the palm of your hand like a true, technologically savvy traveler.

What does your travel insurance cover?

Truth be told, that would be determined by your insurance provider, so speak up, ask questions, and get informed. However, I can shed some light on the standard basic coverages, including cancellations, medical expenses, evacuations, loss or delay, and 24/7 assistance. Cancellations typically entail “injury or illness of the insured, reimbursable, travel companion, family member, or business partner, hurricane or natural disaster strikes destination, terrorism or mandatory evacuation of destination, jury duty or military redeployment” among a flurry of other reasons. Loss or delay protection provides coverage for both baggage and travel delays.

Does my credit card provide travel insurance coverage?

Your credit card is a means of transaction of any kind. Short answer, yes. Credit cards cover most transactions, whether online or otherwise; in this case, your travel insurance policy. However, I recommend you ask your credit card provider for what they offer and compare it to a company like Allianz Global Assistance, whose business is to sell travel insurance specifically. And depending on the plan you choose will cover whatever kind of adventure you choose—business or pleasure, cruise or tour, international or domestic. If I had to leave you with one nugget about whether travel insurance is necessary, I would say yes, and always read your confirmation and certificate carefully for specifics about the policy you’ve purchased.

I hope we addressed any lingering questions you may have had regarding travel insurance, including its necessity, basic coverages, and payment methods. Partnering with a provider helps protect your travel plans and valuables in the event of the unexpected. If you are interested in speaking with me further about the matter, please visit our website at www.acrossnabroadtravel.com and send me a message. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/acrossnabroadtravel to say hello.