We all look forward to our annual family holiday and no one wants to think about anything going wrong or anyone becoming ill while out of the country.
Unfortunately, this does sometimes happen. By being prepared before you go you can possibly eliminate some of the problems you may encounter.
Top of the agenda is Travel Insurance. It really is foolhardy to travel abroad without it. There are many companies who offer travel insurance so be sure to get the one that is best for you and your family, then compare prices to get the best value policy.
Some banks offer Travel Insurance as part of their service – these usually cover children up to age 16 years old – contact your bank to check the details and contents.
What Should I Look For in a Policy?
Make sure that your policy has sufficient cover so you are not left out of pocket should you have to make a claim while on holiday.
If you intend going on a hiking holiday or a family skiing trip make sure that your policy includes winter sports cover.
Basic cover should include
- Delayed or cancelled flights
- Lost luggage
- Illness
- Late cancellation due to a family bereavement
- Medical care should you or your family require it when away.
- Medical Repatriation should you not be able to fly without a medical professional
How Much Health Cover Should I Get?
£1 Million is the minimum cover you should have – if you are travelling to America or Australia get more than £1 million cover as treatment in these countries can be very expensive
How Much Should I Insure My Luggage For?
Make sure the cost of replacing all the luggage you are taking with you is covered so that you are not out of pocket.
What About Cancellations?
If you’re unlucky enough to have to cancel your much awaited holiday make sure that the insurance you have taken out covers the cost of your holiday + plus any pre booked excursions planned.
Anything Else?
If you intend taking expensive items of jewellery or an expensive camera, laptop etc. make sure that they will be covered under your policy claims limit.
What Happens If the Holiday Company Goes Bust?
When booking your holiday make sure that it is ATOL protected (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) as this will ensure that new flights home will be arranged for you. Should this happen before you leave you should get a refund.
I Booked My Holiday & Flights Separately Am I Still Covered by ATOL?
No – you will not be ATOL protected but if you used your Credit Card to make your booking you may, under the Consumer Credit Act, get your money back.
What is an EHIC?
EHIC is a European Health Insurance Card.
This Card entitles you to state funded care whilst travelling in European Economic Area and Switzerland.
Do I Still Need Travel Insurance?
The EHIC does not replace travel insurance. It does not cover private healthcare costs or being flown home. You should ensure you have both an EHIC card and a travel insurance policy
How Much Does an EHIC Card Cost?
EHIC cards are Free you can apply for yours here https://www.ehic.org.uk/Internet/startApplication.do
Does One Card Cover All the Family?
No. Each member of the party must have there own EHIC card – children also require their own card
How Long is the EHIC Card Valid For?
5 Years
How Can I Renew My Card?
Provided your details haven’t changed you can update your card online otherwise visit the website above.
Where Can I Get More Information about the EHIC?
Where Can I Get More Travel Information?
For more travel advice, visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office where you will find a wealth of information about travelling abroad.
You can visit their website here: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/
Now you’ve organised your Travel Insurance what’s next on the list?
