Travel insurance is designed to provide financial protection against certain unexpected events that may happen before or during a trip. The exact coverage depends on the insurance policy, insurer, country, destination and level of protection selected.
Because policies can vary significantly, it is important to review the policy wording, coverage limits, deductibles and exclusions before making a decision.
1. Emergency medical expenses
One of the most common parts of travel insurance is emergency medical coverage while travelling abroad.
Depending on the policy, this may include treatment for unexpected illness or accidental injury, hospital expenses, emergency medical procedures and certain prescribed medicines.
2. Emergency medical evacuation
Some policies may cover emergency transportation when appropriate medical treatment is not available at the traveller's location.
This can include transportation to a suitable medical facility or, depending on the policy terms, repatriation to the traveller's home country.
3. Trip cancellation
Trip cancellation coverage may reimburse certain prepaid, non-refundable travel costs when a trip must be cancelled for a reason specifically covered by the policy.
Covered reasons can vary considerably between insurance products. Travellers should therefore check exactly which circumstances are included.
4. Trip interruption
Trip interruption coverage may apply when a traveller has already started a trip but needs to return home early because of an eligible event.
Depending on the policy, this may include certain unused travel costs or additional transportation expenses.
5. Lost, stolen or damaged baggage
Travel insurance may provide compensation if baggage or personal belongings are lost, stolen or damaged during a trip.
Policies usually contain individual item limits and exclusions for certain high-value belongings such as electronics, jewellery or specialist equipment.
6. Baggage delay
If checked baggage is delayed for a specified period, some travel insurance policies may reimburse essential purchases such as basic clothing and toiletries.
The minimum delay period and maximum reimbursement amount vary by policy.
7. Travel delay
Certain policies may cover additional expenses resulting from a qualifying travel delay.
This could include meals, accommodation or transportation, subject to policy limits and minimum delay periods.
8. Personal liability
Some travel policies include personal liability protection if the insured traveller accidentally causes injury to another person or damage to their property.
What might not be covered?
Travel insurance policies also contain exclusions. These can vary, but commonly excluded or restricted situations may include:
- Pre-existing medical conditions unless specifically covered.
- Events known before the policy was purchased.
- Certain high-risk sports or activities.
- Claims involving alcohol or illegal substances.
- Travel against official restrictions or policy conditions.
- Unattended baggage or valuables.
- Losses above stated policy limits.
Single-trip vs annual travel insurance
Single-trip insurance generally covers one specific journey during a defined period.
Annual or multi-trip insurance can cover multiple eligible journeys during a policy year, usually subject to a maximum duration for each individual trip.
What should you compare?
Comparing travel insurance is not only about finding the lowest premium. Useful factual points to compare include:
| Feature | What to check |
|---|---|
| Medical expenses | Maximum coverage limit |
| Trip cancellation | Covered reasons and maximum benefit |
| Baggage | Overall and per-item limits |
| Deductible | Amount paid by the insured before coverage applies |
| Travel delay | Minimum delay period and reimbursement limit |
| Activities | Sports and activities included or excluded |
| Territory | Countries or regions covered |
| Exclusions | Events and circumstances not covered |
Before submitting a travel insurance request
Having the following information available can make the process easier:
- Country of residence.
- Destination or travel region.
- Departure and return dates.
- Number and ages of travellers.
- Purpose of the trip.
- Any specific activities planned.
- Preferred coverage requirements.
Looking for travel insurance?
Enter your travel details and submit your request to relevant licensed insurance partners.