Expert advice on how to get the best travel insurance
# Don’t buy insurance from your travel agent. You will find a better value policy by shopping around on the internet.
# Check the small print. Travel insurance is sold at varying levels; it can include compensation for delayed or cancelled flights, and cover the cost of medical treatment and lost luggage.
# If you’re going to travel more than once or twice in a year, annual travel insurance is often the cheapest option and can start at around £25. Try Trailfinders, insureandgo.com or Direct Line.
# Going bungee jumping or white water rafting? Be sure to check whether your insurance covers any activities you’re planning and what the maximum age is under the terms of the policy. Many companies only cover those under 65. Direct Line, Saga, Help the Aged and Age Concern have no upper age limit on travel cover.
# Reputable companies should offer you a 24-hour helpline while you’re abroad. Make sure to take all relevant documents concerning your policy with you.
# Single trip or multi-trip?
If you are planning on travelling more than once during the year it’s a good idea to think about spending a little bit extra on multi-trip travel insurance. Doing this will save you money in the long-run because annual multi-trip insurance covers you each time you go away. It could even cover you for weekends away or a city break – handy if you get your camera stolen while visiting friends. Single trip insurance is advised for anyone who knows they’ll only be travelling once throughout the year.
# Shop around
When shopping for travel insurance, don’t just go for the cheapest. Make sure you compare the insurance products on offer, the benefits included in the cover and also what is excluded from the policy. This ensures that you will get covered for what you need while you are away and that you are not paying for any unnecessary features of the policy. The internet is a great place to compare what insurers have to offer and you won’t be put under any pressure from travel agents trying to sell their own insurance.
# Honesty is the best policy
Make sure you tell your insurer if you have an existing medical condition or a medical history. There is no point in trying to save a few pounds on your insurance by being dishonest. If you fall ill or die as a result of an existing problem while on holiday and you have lied about it, your policy is likely to become invalidate.
# Check policy documents
Always make sure you check the policy details for aspects like terrorism, hazardous activity, threats of war, medical issues and personal liability. These are also things that can change regularly so always read the small print. If you are unsure of whether you will be covered for a particular activity or threat, always check with the insurance advisor.
# Keeping the number on you
Always have the international helpline number for your travel insurance company with you at all times. It’s also advisable to also have a copy of your policy with you too. It’s not a good idea to keep this information in your wallet or mobile phone as these items are often the first things to get lost or stolen and that you will want to claim for.
