5 Hidden Secrets: Travel Insurance

Learn what to search for when comparing travel insurance companies so you get the coverage you need and want.

10:12 08 March 2013

When you’re travelling, especially abroad, there may be certain situations which are not covered by your travel insurance company.  You’ll want to check with them about any specific exclusion that exists so you can be prepared. Here are a few situations which may not be covered. 

•Certain travel insurance companies may not cover medical conditions such as pregnancy and childbirth. If this is the case and there is no option to get coverage for this, check with your health insurance company to find out what they will and won’t cover when you’re travelling.

 

•Specific types of baggage loss, for example, baggage missing for less than 24 hours may not be covered and any expenses you incurred in the meantime would not be reimbursed. It is best to have a few necessities and a change of clothes if possible in a carry-on.

 

•Some travel insurance companies list cancellations as part of the covered situations; however, you’ll want to find out what that entails. It may be cancellations you initiate, but it may not cover cancellations by your tour guide or other cancellations done by companies and individuals. 

 

•If you have expenses incurred by a pet such as illness or even death, those expenses and other related expenses such as trip cancellation may not be covered. Pet insurance may help if you do plan to travel with your pet. Otherwise check with your travel insurance company for details.

 

•Certain lost items such as keys, documents, money, credit cards, and tickets may not be covered at all regardless of the circumstances.  

 

If you don’t already have travel insurance consider your unique needs and compare what the different travel insurance companies are offering their customers.