Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is short-term insurance available specifically against travel-related emergencies and expenses. International travelers need to obtain travel insurance because it covers medical expenses, but even other travelers may find it useful depending on their plans.
Using insurance begins as you encounter any problem after you’ve purchased coverage and before or during a trip. A problem that puts your plans at risk and/or that threatens considerable cost beyond what you would normally encounter. (This won’t include coverage for essential steps on your trip that you failed to arrange for yourself, e.g., lodging, meals, fully adequate connection times between flights.)
Once you know the details of the problem (and any cost), you promptly contact the claims people for the company that issued your policy. You explain the situation, and they instruct you on what to do for a covered problem.
- For problems with modest cost that are covered, you’ll likely be told to pay the costs (preferably by credit card), keep all supporting bills/invoices/receipts, and to file a claim with the company after your trip is over.
- For problems with great cost (e.g., overseas medical evacuation can cost a fortune), the insurer may do the same, though such costs can easily exceed the maximum “draw” allowed on your charge card. Better travel insurers also have “preferred providers” in numerous countries, one of which may be able to help you at lesser cost than others or even provide the service you need and directly bill the insurer.
- If you do not have the means to pay for what you need (and then wait for reimbursement), and no preferred provider can be used, some insurers will transfer funds to help. They do so only after being satisfied about costs encountered, and that they are sending the funds to and for someone who is covered.
To wisely purchase coverage, contact us and we will help you get the right package that you need.