Safe Travels: Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance may not be top of your list when booking your next dream sailing. You’re more likely to focus on destination choices, cruise itineraries and logistics. However, unforeseen events such as accidents, illnesses and trip cancellations can occur, underscoring the importance of being adequately prepared. Here we offer tips on finding the right coverage for you.

Start early

Don’t leave purchasing travel insurance until the last minute. It’s best to buy it as soon as you’ve booked your trip, as this ensures you’re covered for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise before you depart.

Check existing coverage

Before buying travel insurance, check whether you already have coverage through your bank, credit card, or any other existing insurance policies. You may already have some level of travel insurance included as a benefit.

Choose your coverage

Ensure the policy you decide provides adequate coverage for your needs. Consider factors such as medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost baggage and personal liability coverage. Make sure that the policy covers all the destinations you plan to visit and any activities you intend to participate in, such as skiing.

Trip cancellation and interruption coverage

Ensure that the policy provides adequate coverage for trip cancellation and interruption due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, or family emergencies. Since cruises often involve substantial upfront costs, it’s essential to have coverage that reimburses non-refundable expenses if the trip is cancelled or cut short.

Medical coverage

Verify that the policy includes comprehensive medical coverage, including cover for onboard medical treatment, medical evacuation and repatriation. Cruise ships may have limited medical facilities and medical evacuation can be costly, so having adequate medical coverage is crucial.

Pre-existing medical conditions

If you have preexisting medical conditions, make sure to declare them when purchasing travel insurance. Some policies may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions if certain criteria are met, while others may exclude coverage altogether.

Emergency assistance services

Choose a policy that offers 24/7 emergency assistance services. This provides access to a helpline that can assist with medical emergencies, travel arrangements and other unforeseen situations while you’re on your cruise. This can provide you with peace of mind knowing help is available whenever you need it.

Coverage for cruise-specific incidents

Ensure that the policy covers incidents specific to cruise travel, such as missed port departures due to travel delays, itinerary changes, or disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions.

Travel delay and missed connection cover

Verify that the policy provides coverage for travel delays and missed connections, including reimbursement for additional expenses such as accommodations, meals and transportation if you miss boarding due to a covered reason.

Lost or delayed baggage

Delayed bags accounted for 80 per cent of all mishandled bags in 2022, according to aviation IT provider SITA. So it is crucial to have coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, including reimbursement for necessary items if your baggage is delayed for an extended period during your cruise.

Read the small print

Carefully review the policy documents, including the terms, conditions and exclusions, to understand what is and isn’t covered. Pay attention to any limitations or restrictions that may apply to cruise travel, such as coverage for onboard incidents or specific cruise destinations. If you’re renewing a policy you’ve used before, review it to make sure it still meets your needs. Circumstances can change, so ensure that the coverage is still appropriate for your current situation.

Consider annual policies

If you travel frequently, consider purchasing an annual multi-trip policy instead of a single trip policy. It provides continuous cover throughout the year, eliminating the hassle of arranging insurance for each trip separately. While single trip policies may seem economical for occasional travellers, the cumulative cost of multiple policies can add up.

The claim process

Familiarise yourself with the claims process outlined by the provider. Take note of any documentation you may need to provide in the event of a claim, such as receipts, police reports, or medical records.

For couples

Couples travel insurance provides coverage for both you and your partner under a single policy. Opting for this type of insurance may offer cost savings compared to purchasing two separate policies. To be eligible for couples holiday insurance, both individuals must be at least 18 years old, reside at the same address and be in a relationship.

For over-65s

This is accessible to seniors who may encounter challenges in securing adequate coverage for their trips. The extent of coverage provided will vary based on the policy you select, underscoring the importance of carefully reviewing the policy details.

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