Do I Really Need Travel Insurance?

08/28/16
Travel

 

 

Even the most detailed planners cannot always anticipate what may happen before and while you're on vacation. A family member gets sick, inclement weather causes issues with transportation, or an airline loses your luggage - what would you do in those situations? Travel Insurance is a safety net should the unexpected arise.

As a wise sage once said, "It’s better to be safe than sorry." If your journey is to include a cruise, a package tour, an apartment or house rental - which you would normally pay in full before you leave - travel insurance can be quite useful.

Below are some common questions and answers any traveler may face.


Question: What if I miss my flight and the cruise leaves without me?

Answer: Cruise line insurance doesn't usually cover delays that happen on the way to the port. Travel insurance can cover your airline penalties and change fees in these situations. Plus, it can help you catch up with your cruise at the next stop.


Question: What if I get sick and have to cancel my cruise within 24-72 hours of departure?

Answer: Travelers who cancel their cruise within 24-72 hours of departure are subject to pay a full cancellation penalty. But if you have travel insurance, most companies will give you a cash refund if you cancel for a covered reason.


Question: What if I get sick or injured while I'm on vacation?

Answer: Travel insurance will help you get the medical help you need when you need it. This is especially important when traveling outside the United States, where many hospitals require cash payments before treatment can even begin.


Question: Since I already have health insurance, why do I need travel insurance?

Answer: Traditional domestic health insurance policies (including Medicare) provide limited to no coverage for out-of-country medical expenses. Travel insurance can protect you when you're traveling outside of the U.S.


Question: What happens to my vacation in the event of a natural disaster?

Answer: Airlines will not refund the cost of tickets in the event of a natural disaster - or an airline strike or an act of terrorism. Travel insurance plans can help you get home safely and cover the cost in these situations.


QuestionWhat if the airline loses my luggage?

Answer: Airlines often take 5 days to return lost luggage to its owner. Travel insurance provides coverage to replace needed items right away - to quickly get your vacation back on track.


AAA Travel advises against purchasing a policy from the wholesale tour operator from which you bought the trip. If that company goes out of business, the chances are high that your policy will be worthless. Some travel insurance from cruise lines may stop between 24-72 hours before you depart, AAA Travel recommends a policy that will cover up to your departure and throughout the entire trip.

Travel insurance is a small, additional purchase that can save you thousands of dollars, but ultimately is up to the traveler's discretion. For more information about travel insurance, contact your local AAA Travel agent at 
1-800-222-1469 or visit your local AAA Office.­