Why You Should Never Travel Without Travel Insurance
Traveling is expensive, let’s be honest. From flights to accommodation, food and activities – the costs add up quickly. It’s understandable that many people search for ways to cut down on expenses where possible.
And one expense you may be tempted to skip is travel insurance – that pesky little add-on that seems more like a nuisance than an actual necessity. I mean, we already pay enough to insure ourselves as it is, what with car insurance and health insurance. Do we really need one more policy to worry about when we travel?
The answer is yes, a thousand times over! Travel insurance isn’t just an optional extra or something you should skip to save a few bucks. It’s an essential part of any travel plan. Let’s explore this in greater detail.
8 reasons why you shouldn’t travel without travel insurance
1. Medical emergencies can happen anywhere
Nobody plans for medical emergencies while on vacation, but they do happen – even if you’re in top shape and feeling healthy. Whether it’s food poisoning from that street vendor in Bangkok or an unexpected allergic reaction to shell fish in the Caribbean, you never know when you might need medical attention.
2. Medical treatment abroad is expensive
Should you need medical attention while abroad, the cost of treatment can be astronomical, especially for those traveling to countries with a higher standard of living. From transportation costs to and from the hospital to lengthy hospital stays or even outpatient treatments – all these bills can quickly add up.
3. Canceled flights are more common than you think
Canceled or delayed flights occur frequently. And if it happens to you without travel insurance in place, not only might it ruin your holiday plans but you may end up spending much more trying to find alternative ways home. Have you ever considered the cost of a last-minute flight? Or extended hotel stays if there are no available flights? Yikes!
4. Lost or stolen luggage is a nightmare
Losing your bags while on vacation is an inconvenience that we could all live without, but it does happen. Maybe you arrive safely in Sweden but your luggage ends up in Spain. Trust me, isn’t all that rare.
Or, maybe you become the target of pickpockets while touring a new city, and suddenly you’re without your wallet, passport and all-important travel documents. Travel insurance can cover the cost of replacing these items.
5. Travel insurance covers unexpected trip cancellations
Did you know that travel insurance can protect your trip investment and reimburse prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel due to an unforeseeable event? This includes things like severe weather, sudden illness or the death of a loved one.
This does, of course, depend on the specific policy you choose, so be sure to read the fine print before purchasing.
6. Personal liability can be a minefield
Travel insurance may also provide personal liability coverage for accidental property damage or injuries caused by you during your travels. This provides peace of mind knowing that if the worst-case scenario happens while traveling, you’re financially protected.
7. Travel insurance is mandatory when traveling to certain countries
Believe it or not, some countries require visitors to have travel insurance before entering. This is usually the case for those who need a visa; and in this case, travel insurance is part of the visa requirements.
According to Visa Guide (https://visaguide.world/travel-insurance/countries-mandatory-travel-insurance/), the following countries require travel insurance for entry:
- Schengen countries
- Algeria
- Argentina
- Aruba
- Cuba
- Ecuador
- Fiji
- Georgia
- Lebanon
- Iran
- Israel
- Jamaica
- Jordan
- Moldova
- Morocco
- Nepal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Rwanda
- Seychelles
- The UAE
- Togo
- Turkey
- Antarctica
8. It’s better to be safe than sorry
Perhaps the most convincing reason for purchasing travel insurance is simply that it’s always better to be safe than sorry. We can’t control everything that happens during our travels, and sometimes unexpected events lead to significant financial loss.
Compared with the cost of your trip, travel insurance is a small price – but its coverage can mean all the difference when an accident or emergency occurs while traveling.
There’s also your loved ones to consider. If something did happen to you while traveling and you didn’t have travel insurance, your family would be left dealing with the stress and burden of resolving any issues that arise.
Final word
If you’re planning a trip – no matter where in the world – don’t risk traveling without travel insurance. It’s an essential investment for anyone who wants peace of mind while abroad.
Do your research, choose the right policy for your needs, and then enjoy your vacation knowing that if anything unexpected does happen, you’re prepared.
