Where to Get Travel Insurance?

The global travel insurance market is predicted to grow to around $108 billion USD by 2030. Given such figures, it’s fair to say there’s plenty of choice when buying insurance. However, knowing where to begin is easier said than done.

Although policies may overlap, insurers tend to differ regarding the finer points. This includes details such as what you’re covered for and how much. This blog will look at the essential considerations to make before agreeing on your policy.

Contents

·   How Do I Choose Good Travel Insurance?

·   Is Premium Travel Insurance Worth It?

·   Who is the Best Company to Get Travel Insurance From?

·   When to Buy Travel Insurance

·   Conclusion

How Do I Choose Good Travel Insurance?

When choosing travel insurance, put sufficient time aside in order to find the best deal for your travel needs. You should establish what you’ll be covered for, and any limitations regarding potential compensation. A Forbes study showed the average travel insurance cost is 5% to 6% of your trip costs. This means it is worth making basic calculations before considering any offers.

· Medical expenses

Most medical insurance will cover you for minor personal accidents, but for major problems, claim limits can differ wildly. In a worst-case scenario, injured persons may require airlifting away from an accident scene. It would be best to actively consider the potential costs of such an occurrence.

· Hobbies & activities

If you’re a keen hiker, or into watersports or other such activities, check to see if a policy covers these. For example, GasanMamo covers golfing activities as standard – other insurers may charge a premium for this. 

· Start & stop dates

Establish the exact period of insurance required. Policies can include flights, so be careful when selecting coverage dates if you’re flying at unsociable hours or through multiple time zones. If you’re a frequent traveller, taking out an annual policy for 12 months may be beneficial.

· Coverage for freak events

Freak events may mean unexpected weather conditions, political instability, or terrorist attacks. Basic coverage is unlikely to cover occurrences such as these. Although it’s impossible to predict the future, the region you’re travelling to is worth researching. This is so you can make an informed choice about the coverage you need.

· Exclusions

Knowing what travel insurance does NOT cover is just as important as knowing your coverage levels. It would be best to make no assumptions about travel insurance. Remember that If something is not clear in your policy, it probably won’t be covered. Check with your chosen insurer regarding any specifics, should you have any doubts.

(Note: ‘what travel insurance does NOT cover’ should internally link to the blog of the same name, once it’s live)

Is Premium Travel Insurance Worth It?

‘Premium’ travel insurance is usually referred to as ‘comprehensive’ cover. Costs may be higher than a basic or standard policy, but the levels of cover will be much higher. Its worth is dependent on the needs of the individual.

Comprehensive cover may compensate for delays and cancellations caused by natural disasters and higher personal accident benefits. It may also cover you for specific activities, such as winter sports. Find out more with our article on Why is travel insurance important?

(Note: ‘Why is travel insurance important?’ should internally link to the blog of the same name, once it’s live)

Who is the Best Company to Get Travel Insurance From?

Deciding where to get travel insurance is no easy task. The right policy for one may not cover the needs of another. Consider the purchase to be a bespoke one, and list your insurance needs in relation to your own personal circumstances. These should include any personal health concerns alongside planned activities and whether you require coverage for delays/cancellations to flights/hotels.

Many people choose an insurance company as recommended by their travel provider. Others may consider shopping around by using comparison websites. For those living in Malta, Mediterranean insurance brokers GasanMamo offer highly-comprehensive and competitive deals covering personal accidents, costs for emergency medical treatments, and loss of baggage as standard. You can find a detailed coverage breakdown with our travel insurance guide.

When to Buy Travel Insurance

Although buying travel insurance during a trip is often possible, it’s advisable to arrange a policy well in advance. Doing this will not only give you access to the most competitive deals, but you’ll be able to procure more comprehensive insurance.

To ensure your policy covers everything you need, begin your search as soon as you’ve booked your hotel and flight. That way, you’ll be aware of any monetary compensation needed if you have to cancel, as well as sufficient time to consider the amount of overall coverage needed.

Conclusion

When deciding where to get travel insurance, it certainly pays to do your homework. An awareness of personal needs, occurrences covered, and compensation limits will put you in the best position to find the right deal and ensure you can travel with peace of mind.

To start, look at our competitive and comprehensive benefits, optional extras, and annual offer on our travel insurance page.

GasanMamo Insurance is authorised under the Insurance Business Act and regulated by the MFSA.