A guest post by Chelsea from Travel Insurance Master.
Travel insurance is a bigger question than ever, and for good reason. The last few years have been full of the unexpected, so travelers are looking for ways to protect themselves and their travels from all the unknowns. We chatted with Travel Insurance Master to learn exactly why travel insurance is so important and their tips to find the best plan for you.
Why Travel Insurance Master?
There are so many travel insurance options out there that it may seem daunting to have to sort through companies, policies, and plans that are a good fit for your trip. Luckily the founders at Travel Insurance Master have worked in the travel industry for decades! They have personal experience with a variety of travel insurance providers, and they have chosen to partner only with the leading companies that provide the best value, benefits, and customer service. Travel Insurance Master brings all their plans to one website so you can easily compare them side by side. The true genius though is behind their quote process. All you have to do is simply request a quote in just 3 easy steps. After you input your trip and traveler information, you’ll be recommended the best plan and value for your trip. You’ll also find clear comparisons of similar plans and options to narrow the results down using custom filters for specific benefits you may be looking for.
What Kind of Travel Insurance Do I Need?
Travel insurance helps you protect your trip from the unexpected. The most popular plans are Comprehensive Plans or those with Trip Cancellation and Travel Medical Options. Trip Cancellation covers you 100% for covered reasons, most commonly when you, your family member, or travel companion gets sick. It’s also important to remember that your regular health insurance likely does not cover you or provides minimal coverage outside your home country. Travel medical options fill that gap while you travel. If a trip is so important that trip cancellation is not an option for you, you can also find plans without Trip Cancellation on Travel Insurance Master. These plans give you medical coverage and may have some options for other benefits. See your plan certificate for details and coverage limits.
When Do I Purchase Travel Insurance?
For the most options, purchase travel insurance early on in your travel planning process. You will usually want to request a quote the same day or within a few days of your initial trip deposit so you can take advantage of time sensitive benefits. One of the most requested travel insurance benefits is Cancel for Any Reason or CFAR. To purchase this, you will need to buy your insurance usually within 1-21 days of initial trip deposit. As the name suggests, this benefit allows you to cancel for any reason whatsoever usually up to 2 days before departure for reimbursement up to 75% of non-refundable expenses.
What is My Trip Cost?
Your Trip Cost is the total prepaid, and non-refundable expenses for your trip. You’ll need this amount to request a quote and to ensure your trip is not under or over insured. On Travel Insurance Master, you’ll find there is a field to input your initial deposit date, and there is an option to select if you have not made your final payment yet. Yes, you can buy travel insurance even if you haven’t paid for your trip in full!
Should I Still Purchase Travel Insurance for a Domestic Trip?
Even if you’re taking a domestic trip over an international one, travel insurance is still important. It’s beneficial on any trip that takes you 100 miles or more from home. A short-term rental, Airbnb, or VRBO, can sometimes have strict cancellation policies set by the host. Without travel insurance, if the unexpected happens, you could be left without a refund. On road trips, an RV rental or rental car, campground reservations, and more could also be part of your trip cost and protected.
What if I Need to Cut My Trip Short?
You’ve learned about the ways travel insurance protects you in the event of cancellation but if a situation arises during your trip, causing you to cut it short, you may be entitled to reimbursement if you purchase the Trip Interruption benefit. Familiarize yourself with your plan and the covered reasons for this benefit and others. If a covered reason for trip interruption takes place, you may be reimbursed for a portion of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.
Are My Belongings Protected?
Travel insurance can also protect your belongings! If they’re lost, damaged, or stolen during the course of your travels, you may be eligible for reimbursement up to your plan’s coverage limits. Be sure to keep documentation to prove they are missing or stolen, and any receipts. It’s always a good idea to contact your travel insurance provider for advice and next steps whenever something happens.
What if I Need Assistance?
When you’re traveling, the 24-Hour Assistance Services provided by most travel insurance companies can be another layer of peace of mind. These services start when your trip does, and can help with lost or stolen items, medical referrals, replacement of prescription medication, and much more.
Ready to Protect Your Next Trip?
The small cost of travel insurance is well worth the peace of mind it provides. With Travel Insurance Master, it’s easier than ever to find your recommended plan and get back to planning and ultimately enjoying your next adventure!
*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we receive a commission at no cost to you if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended.
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