Traveling is a year-round hobby. Thousands of people travel every day for leisure, family time, or business activities. Traveling has become riskier in recent years. The threat of sickness and international unrest has heightened tensions. Obtaining travel insurance has become a necessity. Travel insurance provides a layer of protection if something goes wrong.
However, there is a lot of misinformation regarding travel insurance that prevents people from finding the coverage they need. If you’re seeking further clarification on what travel insurance entails, here’s the truth regarding some common travel insurance myths.
Myth 1: Obtaining Travel Insurance Isn’t Necessary Unless You’re High Risk
One of the most common misconceptions regarding travel insurance is that it’s only a worthwhile asset if you’re involved in a high-risk activity. The truth is that travel insurance actually excludes claims based on high-risk activities. If you’re going skydiving, you’ll have to purchase extra coverage to stay protected if something goes wrong. Contact your insurer to see if they offer special coverage for high-risk activities like zip lining, rock climbing, and bungee jumping.
Myth 2: You’ll Always Receive a Full Refund
Perhaps you’ve purchased travel insurance, but you have to cancel your plans because of an emergency. While you may believe you’re entitled to an automatic refund, that’s unlikely to happen. The easiest way to protect yourself in the event of an emergency cancellation is by purchasing special cancel coverage. Be aware, though, that even with special cancel coverage, you won’t recoup all of your upfront payment. If you cancel anytime within two days before your departure date, there are still limitations.
Myth 3: Travel Insurance Benefits People with an Illness
This is a common misconception. If you’ve been diagnosed with an illness, travel insurance offers limited protection. If your doctor recommends that you avoid traveling and you get on the plane anyway, you’re at risk. Traveling with a pre-existing condition leaves you vulnerable to having your claim denied if something goes wrong. It’s recommended that you purchase a comprehensive policy with pre-existing condition coverage included.
Myth 4: Travel Insurance Isn’t Essential If I Already Have Health Insurance
Travel insurance is completely different from health insurance. Travel insurance covers you if you sustain a serious injury while on vacation. However, the policy does not cover basic medical care. Maybe you’re feeling dizzy because you forgot to refill your medication before going on vacation, and now you are sick. Travel insurance won’t kick in to cover you if you need to purchase an emergency bottle while you’re on vacation.
It’s recommended that you amend your health insurance policy to cover you while traveling abroad. If you travel on a regular basis, you should also inquire about obtaining an international health insurance policy. This type of basic health insurance covers your treatment while you’re abroad. You’ll be protected if you need your eyes examined or undergo a medical check-up while you’re out of the country.
Consult with Family Financial Insurance Group to Burst All Your Travel Insurance Myths
Travel insurance provides many benefits. It provides a safety net if your luggage is stolen or you’re inconvenienced due to something out of your control. However, there is a lot of false information regarding exactly what’s covered in the policy. If you have any questions about travel insurance, the team here at Family Financial Insurance Group will help you find the right policy. Contact us today to get started!