Why Travel Insurance Should Be Non-Negotiable for Every Trip
We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t leave home without travel insurance.” It might sound like a cliché, but after years in global medical assistance, I’ve seen firsthand why it matters. From lost luggage to medical emergencies, the unexpected can turn your dream holiday into a financial nightmare. Here’s why travel insurance should be at the top of your packing list, and what to look out for before you go.
Why Travel Insurance Matters:
I’m sure you’ve heard this before. It’s become a cliché because so many people spend thousands of dollars heading overseas on holiday and yet are not prepared to pay the, comparatively small, cost of travel insurance because, “I probably won’t need it.”
I really hope you never need to call on the insurance. However, after six years as an Operations Manager at one of the largest global medical assistance companies, in both Auckland and London, I have seen what can happen on an overseas trip and the financial effects that follow.
From smaller lost luggage and pharmacy cost claims through to missed flights, medical costs, nurse or doctor-supported transfers, local and international air ambulance transfers, and regrettably body repatriations. Having access to a medical assistance company in itself is a huge help when you’re in a strange country and don’t know what to do or where to go for help
When to Buy Travel Insurance
You should arrange travel insurance as soon as you’ve paid for your trip, whether it’s those cheaper non-cancellable, non-refundable flights or the deposit on the fancy accommodation you’ve booked. Things can go wrong even before you leave, and without cover, you risk losing that money.
Travel Insurance Options in New Zealand
In New Zealand, there are plenty of travel insurance options that offer comprehensive cover at reasonable prices. Don’t just rely on the complimentary cover that may come with a Gold or Platinum credit card, it often has limitations. Using travel insurance comparison websites can help you find the best policy for your needs.
Key Things to Check Before You Pay Pre-Existing Medical Conditions:
If you, a travel companion, relative, or anyone whose ill health (your sick uncle) may cause you to cancel your trip has a pre-existing medical condition, you are not likely to be covered. However, you should speak with your insurance company and see if you can get an extension.
Your Destination If you’re travelling to a country where there may be additional risks, check the SafeTravel website: www.safetravel.govt.nz. Run by the Consular Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, it provides up-to-date travel advisories. Notices such as “Exercise increased caution” (currently in place for the UK and USA) may not affect your cover, but warnings like “Do not travel” or “Avoid non-essential travel” will likely void your insurance. Always confirm with your insurer before you book.
Activities While Travelling Planning on riding motorcycles, skiing off-piste, hiking in remote mountain ranges, or trying other adventurous activities? Make sure to check with your insurer first as these types of activities aren’t always automatically covered, and you may need to upgrade your policy.
Reasonable Care While on holiday, take care of yourself and your belongings. Your insurance company will require you to take reasonable care of yourself and your property.
Having your daypack stolen while you turn to take a photo or make an Instagram post may be acceptable to the insurance company. But leaving it unattended while going for a swim or a walk along the rocks, or injuring yourself while hanging off a bridge or cliff, will likely not be covered.
Don’t be the person who ends up in a foreign hospital with uninsured costs so high that your loved ones are forced to remortgage their home just to bring you back safely. Be the person who planned ahead with travel insurance to protect yourself financially. And above all, enjoy your trip.
