Trip trouble? Why travel insurance can save the day
It protects you from unexpected events that could otherwise turn your dream holiday into a costly nightmare.
Lets break down why travel insurance matters, what to look for in a policy, and how to choose coverage that fits your travel plans and budget.
What does travel insurance cover?
Travel insurance can cover you against losses such as cancelled flights, travel delays, damaged or delayed luggage, loss or theft of money or passport, and most importantly, illness or injury.
"While baggage delays are annoying, it's the serious issues, like accidents or illness abroad, that can be financially devastating," said Geraldine Kelly, Head of Personal Lines at insurance broker Gallagher in Ireland.
"Emergency medical expenses can run into tens of thousands.
"A simple, affordable policy can give you peace of mind and real protection if the worst happens," she explained.
What type of travel insurance can you get?
There are several types of travel insurance available, depending on the type of trip you're taking and who is travelling.
The most common policies include single-trip cover for one-off holidays and annual multi-trip cover if you travel more than once a year.
Ms Kelly of Gallagher Insurance said the key is to match the policy to the nature of your trip and who is going.
"You'll also find specialist cover like family, student, group, and over-65s insurance," she said.
How much does travel insurance cost?
Just like other insurance products, you need to shop around to get the best value for money.
"Family plans tend to be better value than individual plans, so make sure to compare the prices of different options," a spokesperson for the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission advised.
If you're planning multiple trips for the year, a multi-trip or annual policy will probably be better value than purchasing a single trip policy each time.
While some travel agents sell insurance policies, the CCPC said they may not be the cheapest option.
"You may get better value if you purchase from another provider," the spokesperson said.
"Make sure to compare the coverage and terms against different providers and policies."
In general, policies with a lower premium tend to have higher excess, while policies with a higher premium tend to provide additional coverage such as winter sports, delayed or missed departures.
According to Gallagher in Ireland, pricing varies based on age, destination, and duration.
"As a rough guide - a basic single-trip European policy might cost as little as €22.00," said Ms Kelly of Gallagher in Ireland.
"For more comprehensive cover, including cancellation, baggage, and medical benefits up to €5,000,000, you could expect to pay around €42.00.
"Annual multi-trip policies start from about €80.00 for Europe, rising to €120.00 or more for global cover," she added.
Do adventure holidays require additional cover?
Yes, standard travel insurance typically excludes higher-risk activities unless specifically added on.
"If you're planning to ski, snowboard, scuba dive, or take part in other sports like bungee jumping or paragliding, you'll need to include winter sports or adventure activity cover," Ms Kelly explained.
"Always check what's included," she added.
What should you ask your provider before purchasing?
According to the CCPC, extreme weather events, natural disasters, protests, strikes and civil unrest may not be covered by every travel insurance policy.
"You may need to purchase a disruption cover as an add-on to your policy," a spokesperson advised.
In general, if something is not specified in the terms and conditions, it is not covered.
"Always check with the insurance provider if you have any doubts about any coverage before going ahead with the purchase," the CCPC stressed.
What does my European Health Insurance Card cover?
If you are travelling within the EU, make sure to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
The card provides free or reduced cost state healthcare in the EU.
"Keep in mind that EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance," the CCPC said.
"It will not cover, for instance, private healthcare or any costs to fly you back to Ireland for medical reasons."
Top travel insurance tips:
Purchase cover as soon as you book to activate cancellation benefits
Disclose all pre-existing medical conditions
Check if your destination or activity needs extra cover
Consider an excess waiver if you don't want to pay out of pocket on small claims
If you travel often, annual cover is usually better value
Don't rely on EHIC: It's helpful in Europe but won't cover things like repatriation or lost baggage.
Read the fine print: Understand what's covered and what's not. Strike action, extreme weather, and long security delays may or may not be included.
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