If you're planning a trip, you've probably been asked more than once if you want travel insurance. And if you're like most people, you quickly wrote the idea off and went about your business.
But don't be so quick to decide. Travel insurance isn't always a good idea, but it can be helpful sometimes.
What does it cover?
Coverage can vary from one company to the next, but most travel insurance policies cover:
The weather, illness, airline bankruptcy or strike, or terrorist activity could cause a trip to be cancelled or cut short.
Medical bills you had to pay for while travelling abroad. If you get sick while on an African safari, your health insurance may not cover care outside of the country, or it may only cover a small amount.
Lost, stolen, or broken luggage and other things.
Accidental death and limb loss if you get hurt badly or die while on vacation.
So, when should I get travel insurance?
Well, you probably don't need it if you are going on a cheap trip that isn't likely to be cancelled or delayed and you are young, healthy, and don't plan to do anything dangerous.
But if you are planning your honeymoon or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, especially to a place where the weather could be bad, you should think about getting travel insurance. It will be well worth the small cost.
If you are older or in bad health, you are more likely to need medical help while on vacation. If you plan to do potentially dangerous things like rock climbing or cliff diving, you should do the same.
Remember that you can get hurt even if you're not doing anything dangerous. You could be out sight-seeing in the afternoon and get hit by a careless driver. You'll be glad you bought extra insurance if that happens.
