Hi travelers,
looking at travel insurance for short 3 weeks overseas travel.
What are important covers to look for in travel insurance? Obvious medical is probably the most important, and seems to the same coverage across the board. What other types of claims have people more frequently made and needed?
any input is appreciated
Not many cover missed connections (which may be an issue, for example, when connecting from one low cost carrier to another; or even between flights of the same carrier if not booked on the same ticket)
You need cover for activities that you intend to do. Lots of people get caught out over hurting themselves riding scooters / motorcycles, bungee jumping, skiing, etc When their insurance policies do not cover such activities. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure that you are going to be covered for your intended activities overseas.
Agreed, two main points:
1. Get the cover listed for the countries you want to go to. USA is by far the most expensive.
2. Make sure if you're doing any unusual activities it is specifically stated in the PDS.
I've had good experiences with Travel Insurance Direct. Always book with them, they have great cover (USA cover has unlimited medical for example). Claimed for a flat tyre on a rental car that the rental company wanted to charge us for and they took care of it, I didn't have to lift a finger.
Single biggest thing I'd recommend which may not be obvious - buy travel insurance as early as you can, same time you buy your air tickets if you can. That way you're covered if you need to postpone your trip due to medical issues, or if the airline goes belly up.
many hanks all for the input
Unlimited medical and unlimited medical evacuation is the main concern.
Don't travel with expensive items to keep your policy cheap cheap cheap!