Do I need travel insurance?

Benefits of Travel Insurance

• Financial Protection: Travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to covered reasons, such as illness, injury, or unforeseen events.


• Medical Coverage: Provides coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling, which can be particularly important when traveling internationally, where your regular health insurance may not apply.


• Emergency Evacuation: Covers the cost of emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, ensuring you receive appropriate medical care and can return home if necessary.


• Trip Delays and Interruptions: Reimburses you for additional expenses if your trip is delayed or interrupted due to covered reasons, such as severe weather or airline strikes.


• Baggage and Personal Belongings: Protects against loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and personal items during your trip.


• Accidental Death and Dismemberment: Provides financial benefits to your beneficiaries in the event of accidental death or serious injury during your trip.


• Travel Assistance Services: Many travel insurance policies include 24/7 assistance services to help with medical emergencies, travel issues, and more.

Considerations for Needing Travel Insurance

1. Destination

Traveling internationally or to remote areas where medical facilities may be limited can make travel insurance particularly important. Check if your destination has any specific travel advisories or risks.

2. Trip Cost and Non-Refundable Expenses

If you have significant non-refundable trip expenses, such as flights, hotels, or tours, travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case you need to cancel or cut your trip short.

3. Health and Medical Coverage

Your regular health insurance may not cover you while traveling abroad. Travel insurance with medical coverage can help cover medical expenses, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and emergency evacuations.

4. Type of Activities

If your trip involves high-risk activities or adventure sports, such as skiing, scuba diving, or hiking, specialized travel insurance can provide coverage for injuries and emergencies related to these activities.

5. Personal Circumstances

Consider your personal situation, such as age, health condition, and family responsibilities. Travel insurance can provide additional security for travelers with specific health needs or those responsible for others.

When You Might Not Need Travel Insurance

• Domestic Travel: If you are traveling within your home country and your regular health insurance and other policies provide adequate coverage, you may not need additional travel insurance.


• Minimal Trip Costs: If your trip costs are low and mostly refundable, the financial risk of cancellation or interruption may be minimal.


• Existing Coverage: Check if your credit card or other memberships offer travel protection benefits that may already cover some aspects of your trip.