Travel insurance is a crucial aspect of planning any trip, whether it’s a short domestic journey or an extensive international adventure, you should never be without it. Here are several reasons why you should always have travel insurance:
Medical Emergencies
Travel insurance can cover medical expenses in case you get sick or injured while traveling.
This can include hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription medications, and sometimes even medical evacuation back to your home country if necessary. Reciprocal heath agreements between other countries & NZ do not guarantee you free medical care.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
If your trip is cancelled or cut short due to unforeseen events such as illness, natural disasters, or a family emergency, travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses like flights, hotels, and tours.
Lost or Delayed Baggage
Travel insurance can compensate you for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage. This can be particularly helpful if you need to purchase essential items while waiting for your luggage to arrive.
Travel Delays
If your trip is delayed due to reasons beyond your control, such as weather conditions or mechanical issues, travel insurance can cover additional expenses such as accommodation and meals. Airlines are under no obligation to rebook you for matters outside their control ie weather events.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a natural disaster, political unrest, or other emergencies, travel insurance can cover the costs of evacuation to a safer location or back home.
Personal Liability
If you accidentally cause injury or damage to someone else or their property while traveling, travel insurance can cover legal expenses and compensation claims.
Assistance Services
Many travel insurance policies include 24/7 assistance services that can help you with medical referrals, travel advice, and other support in case of an emergency.
Peace of Mind
Having travel insurance provides peace of mind, knowing that you are financially protected against a range of potential issues that could arise during your trip.
Overall, travel insurance helps mitigate the financial risks associated with travel, allowing you to enjoy your trip with greater confidence and security.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Travel Insurance
Policy Type
Consider whether you need a Domestic, International, Annual, or Business policy. If you travel frequently, a standard one-trip policy may not be suitable.
Excess
You may have a choice of excess, which is the amount you need to pay in the event of a claim.
Cancellation Cover
Often, you can choose the amount of cancellation cover you need. This should include all non-refundable costs.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Some health conditions must be declared even if they have been cured. Some conditions are automatically covered, while others may require an additional premium for coverage.
Increased Luggage Allowances
Individual items often have a maximum claim limit. You may be able to increase the limit for specific items such as smartphones, hearing aids, etc.
Cruise Cover
This is often an add-on for ocean cruising. Domestic cruises and river cruising are generally excluded.
Adventure Activities
If you’re planning activities like hiking in South America, kayaking in Canada, or abseiling in New Zealand, check if you’re covered in case something goes wrong. You may need to declare any adventure activities you plan to undertake.
Motorcycles & Mopeds
There can be specific rules regarding the type of vehicle. Helmets must always be worn, even if it’s not part of the local culture, as failure to do so may invalidate any claims.
Snow Sports
If you’re skiing or snowboarding, ensure you understand what is covered.
