Going on an overseas trip, especially if it’s your first time, must be one of the most exciting happenings in one’s life. Sure, some people are privileged to travel overseas on a regular basis – whether it is for leisure or business; but for most of us it may only happen once or twice in our lifetime.

Travelling overseas – why do I need to take out special insurance?

You have so many things to organize for your overseas trip and insurance may be the last thing you think about, if you even give it any thought at all. You may argue that the bank will look after that as you receive “free” insurance when paying for air travel with a credit card. While that may be true we urge you to rather spend a little more time and find out exactly what your travel insurance covers and what not.

Many things can go wrong on an overseas trip, just the thought of a tsunami should make one realize that you need to provide adequately for travel insurance.

What types of Travel Insurance is available?

There are various travel insurance products available on the market, for example business, leisure, cruise or student – all geared toward the specific needs of the insured.

What is included in Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance include a number of insurable risks but, as with all short-term insurance, there is no standard travel insurance policy and you need to make sure that the policy you take out provides cover that is suited to your individual insurance needs. In most cases you will find the following risks being covered: Lost Luggage, Personal Liability, Journey Cancellation or Curtailment and Medical Cover.

Limits will apply to all covered risks

Each type of risk will be covered for a limited amount. The amounts may not be sufficient for your needs. Usually you can request increased cover for specific risks – look at your individual needs.

Medical Cover included in your Travel Insurance

You may be young and in excellent health and think that you can get by without medical cover but that would be a very unwise decision to make. Being in a foreign country will expose you to many unknown risks. It’s not only illness you need to think about but accidents can happen anywhere, any time. The last thing you want is to end up in a strange country without any medical assistance available to you. Make sure your policy includes the cost of flying you home after hospitalization should you no longer be able to continue your overseas stay.

Check the Medical Cover Exclusions in your Travel Insurance

The exclusions are probably the first thing you should look at when taking out travel insurance. The most important point to look out for is the age restrictions that apply, for example if you are over a certain age you may not have any cover for medical expenses.
Also, should you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as a cardio-vascular problem, you will find that this will be excluded. The best solution is to discuss this with the insurance company; they may be prepared to provide cover for the condition if you are prepared to pay an additional premium. The same applies for an age restriction – you may be able to obtain cover by paying an increased premium.

As far as medical cover is concerned – take out as much as you can afford.

For the Adventurous Traveller

If you are going to take part in any hazardous activities or sports such as rafting, paragliding, snow sport, etcetera, you will have to take out special insurance to cover the increased risk of accident. Some sports may be included but only if you are not partaking on a professional level – so check the fine print!

Travelling in High-Risk Countries

In some countries the risk of requiring specialized medical attention is increased. This is particularly true in under-developed countries and also where tropical diseases are prevalent. You may require a higher limit of medical assistance cover to provide for air-lifting to a hospital in another country.

Making a Claim

It is better to make sure that you know how the claims procedure works, before you leave on your trip. Some companies may offer online claims, in other cases you may need to wait until you are back in South Africa. You may need police reports or other statements to substantiate your claim; rather take precautionary measures.

Conclusion

Make sure your overseas trip is nothing but joy – by taking the necessary steps to cover all your risks.