How to choose

Not all policies are created equal.

Choose a policy that covers the things important to you. Take the time to read the policy fine print to ensure you’re covered for all the places and conditions you’re visiting. Let’s look at the 5 key areas to consider when buying a policy.

Cover

Travel insurance policies will vary in both the types of things they cover (e.g. medical evacuation, lost luggage) and the amount to which they cover these things. Both of these factors will have an impact on the price of the particular policy.

For example, some policies provide coverage for rental car excess in the event of an accident. But if you have no intention of renting a car while you’re travelling you should not need to pay for this coverage and the price of the policy should come down accordingly.

Most travellers are also adventure seekers, so be sure to check what adventure activities are covered before you take out a policy. You might be able go hiking, but any activity involving descent using ropes might not be covered. It pays to check beforehand.

Flexibility

Also check to see how flexible your policy is. If you’re a free spirited traveller who might change their plans while overseas, be sure to find a policy that allows you to extend your cover while you are still overseas. Sometimes your departure date might change before you leave, so are you able to move the start date of your policy accordingly? Or, having bought your policy, now you have changed your mind and would like that extra level of cover, so are you able to upgrade? All of these questions are worth considering before you buy.

Countries you intend to visit

The region or countries you intend to travel in may have a significant effect on the price and the level of cover. If you are unsure, ask, since to find out you are not covered when you thought you were could be a disaster.

Emergency assistance

Most people think of travel insurance in terms of cover for lost or stolen belongings. But you only have to read a few of the customer comments to understand that the real value of travel insurance lies in its level of emergency assistance if you get into trouble overseas. Make sure you know how to contact the emergency assistance provider at any time.

Are your dependents dependent?

Most travel insurance policies will cover your dependents if you have any. What defines a dependant will vary by insurer but they are often under a certain age and have to be financially dependent on you. However, if you need to make a claim on their behalf, you will need to be able to prove that your dependents are dependent.

Exclusions

It’s essential to be mindful of the exclusions contained in the policy wording of your travel insurance policy. For example, most travel insurance providers will not cover lost luggage that is left unattended in public. Read the policy wording carefully with exclusions in mind before you buy.

Customer Comments (3)

georgina whitaker

29/6/2008 12:18 AM

Travel insurance is a last minute thought for us, leaving for Bali tomorrow. I was apprehensive, deeming it unnecessary, however I think it may be crucial, if only for peace of mind.

julie martin

14/3/2006 04:56 PM

We my husband and I are planning on travelling to England from Christmas we want to book our flights early to get the dates we want the only trouble is my husband is in the Navy and if there is a disaster again over this time he will be needed and unable to travel is there an insurance to cover this?

Peter Yap

23/8/2005 11:48 AM

Travelling to South Africa where I will be based. This is work related and may be required to travel to Burkina Faso and the republic of Congo, possibly other places in Africa. Period 6 months. On return stopping at Malaysia for 2 weeks. Please provide a quote. I have no medical condition except on high blood pressure pills. Expect travel to begin 29 august 2005

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