Travel insurance

[aj8]

Any advise on travel insurance?

 

[MichaelB10398]

This is strictly a personal choice and is relative to individuals sense of security. I have traveled a lot and I have never used travel insurance; however, I know of others that like to use it. Do what makes you feel most comfortable and confident.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Some do. Some don't.
Check with your credit card companies. Often they offer free travel insurance for trips you pay for on their card.
The airlines often offer it when you purchase your ticket.
Your home owner's insurance company may offer it.
AAA in the USA offers it.

 

[BShea]

I like to buy the ins offered when I purchase my ticket. It alleviates some of the stress due to missed flights / train / bus connections or if something happens prior to the trip since I usually book quite far in advance. But I learned the hard way, buyer beware - all insurance is not created equal. On my last trip, I purchased the travel insurance, thinking it would cover a couple of minor medical expenses, but found out too late that it didn't. For my next trip, I went back to my prior travel agency and bought their insurance (there is no requirement to buy the ticket from them). It is better insurance, including medical and even repatriation (heaven forbid) at the same low price. Although I have never had to use it, I trust that this agency would not sell a bad product. They are a well established student / teacher travel agency that I have used for years. www.statravel.com

 

[MCFearnley]

Trip interruption/cancellation insurance has its place and it is up to the traveller to purchase or not. However, I consider that out-of-country emergency medical and travel assistance insurance are necessary for everyone as it will cover some of the expenses and help with things associated with whatever emergency such as repatriation, lodging and flight for a loved one to be by your side, help for a travel companion, etc. There are plenty of types of coverage from many different insurers. You have to shop around. Also check with your employee group insurance coverage, it may cover out-of-country already just as you credit card may have its own coverage. Read up on them, don't assume.

 

[SYates]

I am an EU citizen and speak Spanish, so I just carry my EHIC card, however if you are not an EU citizen and/or if you would prefer being transported home when ill instead of spending time in a Spanish hospital travel insurance is an absolut must have. If you are not properly insured and need medical attention, the bill could be huge very quickly.

Buen Camino, SY

 

[Janbrovold]

Any advise on travel insurance?

My husband and I have traveled a lot and had never purchased travel insurance. For our first Camino we had planned on walking for 5 weeks. On day 3 my hubs fell in a slippery shower and severely broke his hip. We had to use credit cards and bank transfers to pay for the surgery up front..€16,00.( cheap by US standards... all praise to University hospital in Pamplona.) Insurance would have been helpful!! Thankfully our Kaiser insurance promptly reimbursed us. I always get it now for international trips.

 

[aj8]

My husband and I have traveled a lot and had never purchased travel insurance. For our first Camino we had planned on walking for 5 weeks. On day 3 my hubs fell in a slippery shower and severely broke his hip. We had to use credit cards and bank transfers to pay for the surgery up front..€16,00.( cheap by US standards... all praise to University hospital in Pamplona.) Insurance would have been helpful!! Thankfully our Kaiser insurance promptly reimbursed us. I always get it now for international trips.

Thank you. What company do you use?