There are inherent risks when traveling abroad. Of course there’s the more simple possibility of a flight being cancelled, or perhaps you fall ill the day before a luxury cruise. But what if you break a tooth or develop severe abdominal pain? It’s not as simple as taking a trip to the local dentist or doctor.
The best ways to protect yourself are to research your destination and purchase travel insurance.
Travel Insurance
Purchasing travel insurance can be relatively cheap and it will cover you in case of cancellation. It also covers you in the event you need emergency medical or dental treatment. It’s an unsafe assumption that your current health insurance plan will cover you while you’re abroad. The cost of travel insurance is based on the cost of the trip and the age of the traveller. Travel insurance can also provide emergency medical transportation, should it be needed to evacuate from an area.
Traveling with Work
In the course of your job, you may be required to travel abroad. Depending on what you do for a living, the travel risk involved can vary. The cost of travel insurance is based on an employee’s age, occupation and where they’re travelling to. So if you’re a 56 year-old journalist, travelling to Afghanistan, the insurance costs may be particularly high. Make sure your company provides some type of travel insurance so you’re covered in the event of an accident.
Research
When you purchase things, you don’t do so without having some idea of what you’re getting. Before you buy a car, you take it for a test drive; when you buy milk, you check the expiration date; and when you’re travelling abroad, you research your destination. What kind of area will you be staying in? What’s the political situation like in the country? Are you aware of local customs and language? One of the best ways to stay safe abroad and help avoid the need for travel insurance is simply to stay smart.
Make sure you’re prepared for travel risks when you go abroad, do your research, and don’t overlook the value of travel insurance. Most importantly, don't forget to enjoy yourself.
If you have any other travel insurance questions, Gibson can help. Contact us here
