Travelling is an exciting experience that offers opportunities for personal growth, adventure, and relaxation. However, it’s important to keep in mind that travel also involves risks, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage. That’s why it’s essential to have travel insurance whenever you embark on an international trip.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of travel insurance and why you should never travel without it.
Please note any claims eligibility is subject to the terms and conditions of the travel insurance product you are purchasing. The reasons below are indicative and not binding. It is highly recommended to read terms and conditions to see the exclusions, limits and conditions of products.
Medical Emergencies
One of the most important reasons to have travel insurance is for medical emergencies. Even if you’re young and healthy, accidents and illnesses can happen at any time, and they can be particularly stressful when you’re away from home. Depending on the severity of the emergency, you may need to be hospitalised, undergo surgery, or even be evacuated to your home country for treatment. All of these expenses can add up quickly, and without insurance, you may find yourself facing significant financial strain.
Travel insurance provides added peace of mind that you have 24-hour assistance when needed and can submit a claim in the event of a medical emergency. This can include everything from hospitalisation and surgery to emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.
Trip Cancellations and Interruptions
Another benefit of travel insurance is coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions. Even the best-laid travel plans can be disrupted by unforeseen circumstances, such as personal emergencies. If your trip is cancelled or cut short due to something of this nature, you may be able to recoup some or all of your prepaid expenses, such as airfare, hotel reservations, and tours. Be sure to refer to the terms and conditions of the travel insurance product you have selected for more details on any inclusions and exclusions.
Additionally, some travel insurance policies offer trip interruption coverage, which can help cover the cost of additional expenses incurred due to a delayed or interrupted trip. For example, if your flight is delayed and you need to book an additional night in a hotel or purchase new airline tickets, your insurance policy may cover these costs.
Lost or Stolen Luggage
Losing your luggage while travelling can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Not only does it disrupt your plans, but it can also lead to significant financial losses if your belongings are not recovered. With travel insurance, however, you can have peace of mind knowing that your lost or stolen luggage will be covered (up to the limits specified in your policy).
Most travel insurance policies offer baggage coverage, which can provide reimbursement for lost or stolen luggage, as well as any essential items that you need to purchase while waiting for your baggage to be recovered.
Delayed baggage
Some policies also offer coverage for delayed baggage, which can provide reimbursement for any necessary purchases you need to make while waiting for your luggage to arrive.
Personal Liability
While travelling, it’s important to keep in mind that accidents can happen, even if you’re not directly involved. For example, if you accidentally damage property or injure someone else, you could be held liable for any resulting expenses. Personal liability coverage is included in many travel insurance policies, and it can help protect you from these unexpected expenses.
Depending on your policy, personal liability coverage may include legal fees, medical expenses, and other costs associated with a liability claim. It’s important to note that this coverage is not a substitute for a general liability policy, which may be required for some types of travel, such as business travel.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps the greatest benefit of travel insurance is the peace of mind it provides. Travelling can be stressful enough, without the added worry of what might happen if something goes wrong. As with any insurance, you should make sure to read the terms and conditions before the purchase of your travel insurance.
In conclusion, travel insurance is an essential purchase for any traveller. From trip cancellation and interruption protection to medical coverage, lost or stolen belongings, emergency assistance services, and rental car coverage, the benefits of travel insurance are numerous. If you’re travelling internationally from the UAE for business or pleasure, travel insurance can provide much-needed peace of mind and protect you from potentially significant financial losses. Don’t leave home without it!
