Travel insurance can be bought from a variety of places now such as department stores and travel agents and at reasonable prices. However, these benefits don't mean that you should rush into getting your insurance; it is always worth remembering that not all policies are the same.
In some cases, travel insurance is given away free with another product, if you have got it for free it is worth reading the small print to see what you are covered for. If you are not sure what important essentials your policy should include, here is a rough guide to what the Foreign and Commonwealth Office recommends you're covered for:
- In case of injury or the sudden onset of illness abroad it is recommended that your policy includes medical and health cover. The consumers association Which? Suggests that you should have the cover of at least 1 million for European trips and at least 2 million cover for trips to anywhere else in the world.
- It is also said to be advisable to have 24 hour emergency service and assistance stated in your policy.
- A very important thing to be covered against is the loss or theft of any of your possessions.
- Something people don't really think about is cancelling their holiday, however; this could happen and it is therefore advisable to check that your policy includes cancellation or curtailment cover (leaving early). Which? Suggest here that 3,000 to 5,000 should be enough cover in these circumstances.
- In the event of you being sued for any reason whilst you are away, up to 1 million is suggested for personal liability cover.
An important thing to remember if you are travelling to Europe is to fill in a European Health Insurance Card. This replaced the E111 form. By filling out this form you are then entitled to free or cheaper health insurance in the European country you are staying in. However, this card should not be used as a cheap alternative to your holiday insurance.
In some cases travel insurance is given away free with other products.
By filling in the European Health Insurance Card you are entitled to free or cheaper health insurance.
This form should not be used as a cheap alternative to your holiday insurance.