Travel insurance is something I have written and know a lot about. In fact, I’m a global ambassador for Allianz Travel Insurance.

I’ve had major travel insurance issues within my own family. My grandmother was fully covered for over $50,000 in expenses and care when she broke her leg in Thailand and had to be transported back to the United States by private medical plane. So, I know how important travel insurance is to travelers. Here are some reasons why you need travel insurance and some tips for choosing the right plan.

Why You Need Travel Insurance

• Your vacation is a major investment—generally, tens of thousands of dollars for families or couples. So, you need to protect that important and sizable investment.
• You need travel insurance because stuff happens that’s out of your control. Flights get canceled and delayed. Trips get canceled or interrupted. Luggage gets lost or damaged, and people get sick, injured or worse while they travel.
• Your domestic medical insurance will generally not cover you abroad for any illnesses, injuries or repatriation in the event of death. The costs of medical expenses, medical evacuations and repatriation can be astronomical and travel insurance alleviates that cost risk. Obviously, everyone hopes these things never occur, but if they do, you better have travel insurance.
• A global travel insurance company, such as Allianz Travel Insurance, has offices in dozens of countries around the world and has a global reach to help you wherever you are in the world. A good insurance company will be like having someone with you to guide and help you through a difficult time, even when you’re traveling alone.

Tips for Choosing Appropriate Travel Insurance for You

• Determine how much you travel abroad. This will help you determine what type of policy you need.
• If you travel out of the country more than 2-3 times a year, consider an annual policy. The cost is a small fraction of any cost you would incur if something catastrophic happens.
• Make sure your policy covers you for at least $250,000 in medical evacuation, repatriation and other medical expenses.
• Make sure the company you choose has a global reach and don’t necessarily go for the cheapest plan. Remember, you get what you pay for.
• If you have a pre-existing condition, make sure you’re upfront and ask about it ahead of time. Don’t assume anything with insurance companies.
• Determine if your travel insurance policy covers things such as car rentals so you don’t double pay at the car rental counter for insurance.

Written By:

LEE ABBAMONTE

I’m Lee Abbamonte, the youngest American to visit every country in the world. I’ve visited 318 total countries and am one of the world’s most-traveled people. I am a multimedia travel personality, brand ambassador, entrepreneur, travel expert, travel writer, author and global adventurer.