Put an End to All Your Travel Insurance Related Queries Here

There was a time when organizations were only concerned about increasing their profit margins. But, when the competition grew stiffer in the global market, these organizations shifted their focus from making profits to client satisfaction. Almost every insurance company today endeavors to satisfy its clients and this goal can be achieved by offering customized services. In fact, this is the reason why there has been an upshot in the numbers of products offered by the industry to customers worldwide.

In the beginning, companies used to offer insurance policies like health insurance, life insurance, and travel insurance that were all comprehensive in nature. The benefits included in one type of insurance were more or less similar and did not cater to individual differences.

However, today the scenario is completely different and every insurance company offers numerous policies for the consumers. With availability of so many policies, sometimes it becomes confusing for buyers to find out the desired product. The kind of doubts people generally have while buying insurance vary but here we have put together some FAQs that might help readers in one way or the other.

What is the difference between Comprehensive & Emergency Travel Medical Insurance?

Before telling our readers about the difference between both these types of insurance programs, it is critical to mention that a general health insurance policy is not valid abroad. It only covers medical expenses incurred while one is living in his homeland and this is why one has to buy special travelers health insurance while going to some foreign country.

Now, let us highlight the difference between these two types of insurance policies. Comprehensive travel insurance is for those people who do not have any medical policy otherwise. On the contrary, emergency policy is for those travelers who possess a health insurance policy at home but need to buy a policy for emergency cases in foreign countries.

Does Global Travel Insurance Cover Medical Evacuation As Well?

The service of medical evacuation has become quite common and many people believe their insurance company would offer this service under medical insurance. But, it does not hold true in every case and the buyers should check with the company before finalizing the deal. Also, medical evacuation is an expensive service and inclusion of this service might raise your premium amount.

Is Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance Same?

It is a common notion amongst insurance buyers that trip cancellation and trip interruption are same. However, there is a significant different between both these insurance policies and you should clearly understand the same. Trip cancellation is when the person cancels his trip due to unavoidable circumstances like death of an immediate family member or bad weather conditions. Trip Interruption on the other hand is applicable in the situation when the journey is interrupted in between.

In case you have any other doubts regarding health or travel insurance, don't just keep them with you. Ask experts in the insurance industry and resolve all your queries before investing in insurance policies.

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Travel Insurance for People Over 50 Years Old Offers Attractive Features for the Elderly

Do you wish to purchase travel insurance for people over 50 years old? There is no age limit when it comes to traveling. The desire to explore the world is not bound by any age limit. According to a survey, most of the people who go for holidays both at home and abroad are above 50s and 60s, especially those who have retired. By the time you reach 50, your kids are ready to leave home and most of them wish to live an independent life. In such cases, you have ample time and money to spend for yourself.

Opportunities Galore

Today you can think of visiting numerous places when it comes to planning for the holidays. If you are adventurous enough you can explore the jungles, relax by the seaside, or explore new places abroad. The options are indeed huge and there is something for everyone. You can contact some of the leading tourist companies who specialize in holiday planning and are willing to guide you when it comes to planning for vacations. A lot of people who have already reached their 50s are availing these opportunities offered by the holiday companies to book their holiday. This trend is increasing day by day. It is indeed a dream come true when you can surf the websites and go through the holiday places to book the best one for yourself.

Enjoy a Better Coverage

Since the trend of going on holidays is increasing day by day, it has become important for the elderly to seek travel insurance policies as it offers coverage at those times when you really need it. Mishaps can happen at any time during a trip or on the other hand, you may end up falling sick and would require immediate medical help. During such situations if you have travel insurance then it will be easier for you to meet your medical expenses. While you may have to make the payments initially from your own pocket, you can always claim the entire amount from the insurance company later on. However, it sometimes gets difficult for people above 50 to be insured as insurance companies expect the elderly to pay a huge premium amount in order to be able to enjoy better coverage. The charges are quite high and can be hard to afford.

How to avail the best travel insurance for people over 50 years old?

There are certain insurance companies, which do not keep any age limit for insurance policies. But these companies do put a limit on the duration of the holidays you are planning to enjoy. For example, if you are 60 and above, the time will fall down to 42 days from 90 days. If you want to go abroad for a holiday, you are free to get travel insurance for people over 50 years old or above. The insurance policies here go up to $5 million coverage for medical causes, up to $1,500 for loss of personal property and up to $5,000 for cancellation of your trip. You can get the terms and conditions of the companies online along with the charges from your travel agent or online. Single trip insurance also offers similar benefits and conditions. You are allowed to travel for a span of 120 days every year if no single trip lasts for more than 42 days for most policies offering travel insurance for people over 50 years old.

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Is Your Travel Insurance Policy Adequate?

Unfortunately, many people who buy insurance don't read the fine print. This can lead to disappointment and frustration when a claim is curtailed or isn't paid at all because there is limited or no cover. In the case of travel insurance its particularly important to understand the detail because of the number of different risks insured. To help understand the typical cover, I'll run through what's in a typical UK travel policy document. There's no substitute for reading the detail of your own policy but hopefully this gives quick & helpful guide.

This policy starts with an introduction and policy definitions. Then there are sections on health, general conditions, claims conditions, emergency assistance, and reciprocal health arrangements with other countries. The main body of the policy is given over to the schedule of benefits, and finally there's two regulatory sections on the complaints procedure and data protection.

The introduction is essentially a preamble and, amongst other things, highlights that a policy holder must be a permanent resident in the UK, the age limits covered, and the fact that most elements of the cover are subject to some form of excess.

The definitions section primarily relates to the terms used in the schedule of benefits. For instance, it lists the hazardous activities which are covered by the policy and those that aren't and those that are covered only when professionally organised and supervised.

The health section is an important one as by claims value this is the biggest risk covered. It highlights that the insured is committing to the insurer that at the time of taking out the policy & booking the trip the insured is /are healthy, and fit to travel & undertake each trip.... so if you claim as a result of an undisclosed medical condition you might not be covered. Disclosure of medical conditions to the insurer is therefore absolutely vital, and the section stipulates the conditions that require disclosure to confirm cover. These include any medical condition suffered in the 12 months prior to cover being taken out and prior to any trip; some specific conditions suffered in the last 24 months; and also some more serious conditions if they have ever been suffered. The latter category includes heart conditions, high blood pressure, blood clots, high cholesterol and any cerebrovascular problems. Cover may be given for a disclosed condition, sometimes at an extra cost. The disclosure requirements also apply to medical conditions that arise after the policy has been paid for.

The general condition section is pretty standard. It notes where there is dual insurance, the policy would cover only a proportionate share of the claim. An example would be where loss or theft of property is also covered under a household contents policy. The section also includes a 'reasonable precaution' clause noting the insured must take reasonable precautions to avoid illness, disease and injury, and loss, theft or damage to property. Finally it describes the policy cancellation arrangements.

The claims section again is standard. It provides contact details and also summarises the key 'does and don'ts' in regards to making a claim which are....do notify the insurer, preferably by phone, within 31 days of the claimable event or as soon as is possible thereafter, and if you are aware of any legal proceedings, inform the insurer immediately. Do retain any damaged property which is being claimed. Do not negotiate, admit or repudiate any claim without the written authority of the insurer. Do provide supporting evidence as requested by the insurer - without bills and receipts the insurer may not pay the claimed costs. The cost of providing evidence falls on the claimant except if the insurer requires an independent medical examination - that would be an insurer cost. Most of the rest of the section sets the rules in regard to fraudulent claims (they do happen!)

The general exclusions section describes circumstances which are not covered by the policy. I won't list them all, but they include war & terrorism; hazardous activities unless they are specified as covered; driving without a full UK licence; self inflicted injury & suicide; unlawful action against the insured; losses not directly associated with the claims incident; travel to countries against FCO advice. Emergency assistance section like claims gives contact details and summarises what to do in the event. The instructions are straightforward. Smaller medical costs can be dealt with in the same way a non-medical claim but if the medical costs are higher, the assistance company must be contacted and they will advise and arrange medical assistance as required with the costs being guaranteed, including air ambulances for critical cases.

Moving on to reciprocal health arrangements, this section deals with countries with which the UK government has reciprocal arrangements. The advice is to take an EHIC card when travelling in the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland. To encourage this the insurer will waive the medical emergency excess if accepted costs are reduced by use of an EHIC card. In Australia certain treatment is free under MEDICARE so it is an insurer requirement to sign up at the local MEDICARE office over there after having received the first treatment. Details of what treatment's free can be obtained in the Health Advice Booklet for Travellers available at UK post offices.

The schedule of benefits section is the core the policy and should be read carefully. Again I'm not going to go through the detail here but in summary the cover is for

- Cancellation or curtailment - Catastrophe - Missed departure - Travel delay & holiday abandonment - Baggage delay - Personal property - Personal Money, passport & documents - Emergency medical & other expenses - Hospital benefit - Personal accident - Personal liability - Legal expenses

For each of these benefits, a cover limit and excess per person or family is specified. The medical cover per person is measure in the £ millions which is typical of most travel insurance offerings.

So what conclusions do I draw from this quick run through?

My overriding recommedation is read through the policy carefully and understand the cover. In particular, understand the exclusions, cover limits and excesses. The cover can vary significantly between policies. Also ensure that all medical condition disclosure requirements have been met. Second to medical costs, cancellation & curtailment is the biggest insured risk by claims value, so pay attention to the cover limits and excesses as they apply to this risk. Ask yourself, is the policy cancellation and curtailment limit sufficient to cover the costs of the holidays you are taking, and are the excesses acceptable? Then once purchased, make sure that you follow the claims and assistance procedures as stipulated in the policy document. This way you'll minimise the chances of an unsuccessful claim.

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Everything You Need to Know About Travel Insurance on Your Credit Cards

A GUIDE TO TRAVEL INSURANCE

Whether you're planning to take your family to meet Cinderella at Disney World, or do so some serious mountain biking with your buddies in the Sierra Madre Mountains, flight cancellations or hospital visits are never on the itinerary. Travel insurance can deliver piece of mind both while enjoying your trip, and if you're in a seemingly desperate situation. Not all trips are alike, but they may share some familiar headaches:

Pre-destination: travel cancellation (e.g. flight, hotel, tours, etc.) due to unforeseen circumstances Travel Transportation: missed, canceled or delayed flights; lost, stolen, or delayed baggage; accidents while on common carriers (e.g. planes, trains, busses, boats); rental car damages and disablement (e.g. towing, delivery of gas, etc.) Non-medical Issues Abroad: all types of liability (i.e. you damaged something or injured someone); legal costs; hotel burglary; robbery; stolen documents; travel interruption due to unexpected, urgent, or emergency situations Medical Issues Abroad: general medical emergencies; sports and leisure injuries; visit to a local doctor; getting prescription medicines; medical transportation or evacuation; dental problems; insect bites etc

Without even knowing it, you may already have some travel protection. This can come from a variety of places. It's important to read and understand your policies before you travel to make sure you know the extent of your coverage. Print out the details, and take a copy of it with you in your carry-on.

CREDIT CARDS

Not all credit cards offer the same bundle of protection features, but in general there are some similarities between them:

No-Fee Credit Cards ($0 per year): Normally you won't find any travel insurance with these basic cards Mid-Range Credit Cards ($1-99 per year): May offer some elements of travel insurance such as flight delays, baggage loss or delay, common carrier accidents, or trip interruption. Sometimes includes basic medical insurance. Certain cards may include car rental insurance (Collision Damage Waiver). None cover travel cancellation or hotel burglary Hi-End Credit Cards ($99+): Typically include trip interruption, flight delays, baggage loss or delay, common carrier accidents, travel medical protection, and rental car protection. May offer trip cancellation and hotel burglary

As much as we love to generalize, there is no escaping the fine print. There are certain conditions that apply, especially for medical insurance (e.g. amount covered, length of trip covered, age of traveler, coverage of spouse and children, and exceptions). Some cards include exceptions for rental car insurance in the case of vehicles over a value of $65,000.

CAA (AUTOMOBILE MEMBERSHIP)

The obvious benefit of being a CAA member is the automobile services they offer if traveling by car. In case you purchased your travel tickets through CAA, you automatically receive Travel Trip Insurance ($100,000 maximum for basic CAA members and $500,000 for CAA Plus and Plus RV Coverage members).

There is always the option of purchasing additional insurance outside of your membership fees, which will provide you with an extensive travel protection plan.

VARIOUS MEMBERSHIP CARDS

Look in any direction, and you're certain to find some kind of club that wants you as a member, be it an airline or a hotel chain. These memberships may come with extra perks like travel insurance. The Hilton Honors program offered by Hilton Hotels for example, provides a Collision Damage Waiver when you rent a car through their partner, Sixt. Or maybe you are already a member?

UMBRELLA PROTECTION

Ever think that an insurance policy could have you covered if you break a whole stand of Swarovski crystals? Think of umbrella insurance as additional liability protection on top of your other insurances. It may protect you against many types of accidents while on vacation such as bodily injury to others as a result of a car or skiing accident, or paying legal expenses for a court abroad. Check to see if you have such coverage, and the extent to which you are protected.

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT HEALTH INSURANCE

As a proud Canadian citizen, you can count on the government to bail you out in an emergency if you're traveling through Siberia, right? Not so fast. Medical treatment abroad can get very expensive, costing several thousands of dollars. Although your provincial health plan may have you covered when you fall off a ladder in your backyard, it is very limited as soon as you cross the border. Take Ontario and Quebec as examples:

Ontario Health Insurance Plan pays up to $200 per day for inpatient general services and up to $400 for such inpatient services as operating room or intensive care Regie de l'assurance maladie in Quebec pays up to $100 per day for hospitalization

These amounts clearly are not going to pay thousands of dollars per day that you may be charged in U.S. for staying in a hospital

A SAFE BET

When it comes to visiting the hospital while abroad, make sure stress and regret isn't what you'll ultimately be treated for. Without coverage from credit cards and limited protection from the government, you'll most likely require additional medical protection for you and your family. If you're anything like us, you'll probably be doing some rock climbing, downhill skiing, scuba diving or hot air ballooning while on your adventure, which are not necessarily covered. Make sure that your medical coverage does not exclude the activity you plan to be enjoying, whether you're a professional or just do it for recreation.

For some extra peace of mind, review what you are protected against by your current sources. If there is an important type of coverage that you do not have, strongly consider purchasing a more extensive plan for the duration of the trip. In an unfortunate situation, you'll know you can keep calm and carry on. Travel insurance is provided today by many insurance companies (e.g. Manulife, Co-operators) and multiple banks in Canada (e.g. TD, RBC), just check their web pages.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

Review your home policy, as some insurance providers require arranged supervision (e.g. checking every 7 days) while you're away to cover any damages that occurred in your absence (e.g. breakage of plumbing due to freezing) Read, understand, photocopy, and carry your insurance policies in your carry-on luggage. Some countries explicitly demand that you demonstrate insurance protection while entering the country Some providers may refuse coverage if you are going to "unstable" parts of the world. The list varies from one provider to the next, and changes with time, so explicitly ask if you're destinations are covered. Some providers use a list from the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada Get vaccinated if necessary and talk to your doctor. You will need to start dealing with vaccination 4-8 weeks before departure. To see which vaccinations you may require, check out the web site from the World Health Organization Travel Insurance - Avoid Becoming a Statistic   What Does Travel Health Insurance Cover?   Best Gifts for Jetsetters   

The No 1 Mistake When Buying Travel Insurance

You made those long awaited vacation plans and you know you need to think about travel insurance. The travel agent you used strongly suggested that you protect your investment with trip insurance. You know a lot of things could happen before you leave that might cause the trip to be canceled.

Maybe you've just booked that dream cruise. You've spent a lot of money. What if something happens? Somebody could get sick. Weather could cause flight delays and you'll miss your sailing time. You'll definitely want some kind of protection. It's the smart thing to do.

Well congratulations! At least you recognize the need to protect your investment. That's more than a lot of people who spend a lot of money on travel plans and never consider what could happen and how much they could lose. But when you go to buy that travel insurance don't make the #1 mistake that many people make.

So many people take the easy way out without thinking. They opt for the travel insurance their travel agent is recommending or they may see that when they booked their cruise the cruise line was offering travel insurance at a cost that seemed reasonable. Don't make this #1 mistake! This is the worse way possible for getting any kind of trip insurance.

Consider this. Your travel agent is offering a particular plan or plans from a particular insurance carrier. Now this may not be a bad plan but do you think it is being offered because it is the best value or has the best in coverage options for you? It's probably not. It's probably offered because your travel agent has a business relationship with that carrier and they get the best commissions when their clients buy it.

The same thing is true with any kind of travel insurance that is offered through any travel vendor like the cruise line you booked your trip on. This will almost certainly not be the best value for your money. Plus, why would you think that these travel policies would meet your specific needs? Sure they may have options you can select giving you a little flexibility but you can be sure you probably can do better in price and coverages.

Here's what you need to do. First take a minute and asses your own particular travel situation. Are there things at work that might get in the way of the trip? Are you traveling with children? Are there any health issues with elderly parents that could cause problems while you're away? You don't have to spend days doing this but be aware of potential situations that could come up.

Then do some comparative shopping online. There are several places where you can get comparative quotes and most importantly read the detail description of coverage. This will tell you what specific coverages and exclusions are included in the plan. Now this may not be the most enjoyable reading but it is necessary. Most plans have options and upgrades that you might want or need to give you adequate protection for your unique situation.

Be especially careful when you compare the medical travel insurance coverages and benefits. This after all is the most important reason for buying any form of travel insurance. Take your time, compare policies and you'll avoid making the biggest mistake people make and be able to find the best value for your money at the same time.

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Why Do Senior Citizens Need Travel Insurance?

There are a lot of senior citizens that love to travel and see the world, but they don't know how much they need to be covered while their in the air. Senior travel insurance is really perfect for seniors who love to always travel, as they will be protected at all times. They will be fully protected while they are overseas. If they are in need of medical assistance or simply any kind of assistance, their travel insurance will be there for them to solve the problem. So basically, they don't have to worry about anything when they're on a vacation. This is a very important coverage that every senior that loves to travel needs. If you are a senior citizen that loves to travel, you have to make sure that you are safe if ever an incident occurs.

What is senior travel insurance?

Senior travel insurance is a type of insurance coverage that will protect the senior citizen if any incidents occur while they are overseas. The great thing about this coverage is that you can have a peace of mind to know that no matter what happens to you, their will be someone to help you. If you need help to find your lost luggage, or missing travel documents, there will be special assistance available for you anywhere around the world.

Why do senior citizens need travel insurance?

Seniors don't have an idea of what can happen to them while they are traveling. If you go to a foreign country, you can accidentally eat or drink something that your body system cannot manage. If something like this does occur, your senior travel Insurance will cover and take care of you so that you can continue your vacation.

How much is the coverage for senior travel insurance?

The premium is based on the actual age of the senior, health status, and the area they live in. There are rules and restrictions, but your insurance agent will be glad to explain to you what they are so you can avoid any delays. They can do other different types of coverage that will be perfect for you so that you will be able to find a coverage that meets your budget.

There are many insurance companies that may offer this type of coverage online. However, you must make sure that you are dealing with the right company that will provide you a coverage that is actually needed. Try not to deal with anyone who isn't licensed or registered with the Department of Insurance, as they may not provide any coverage for you if you are actually in need of help. These people only want to collect your monthly premium and will not give any service whatsoever. Don't let these con artists take your money, as they are very manipulative. It is advisable to contact your nearest Department of Insurance for more information about unlicensed solicitors. This will give you an idea of what you you should do to avoid getting ripped off.

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