With the holidays behind us, many Canadians are already thinking about palm trees and powder sand beaches. Winter just doesn’t have the same appeal when you don’t have festive gatherings and stuffed turkey to look forward to.
But before you book your flights and decide on your destination, there are a few questions you may want to ask about your travel coverage. We’ve put them together for you:
Will someone be available around the clock to help me?
Not all travel insurance companies offer 24-7 assistance, but it is highly recommended that travelers take advantage of policies that do. There are many emergency situations that could come up while you are out of the country, and being able to reach someone immediately, no matter the time, is essential to be sure the situation is resolved as quickly as possible.
Will I be engaging in “risky activities”?
A lot of insurance policies do not cover “risky activities”, and you don’t have to be bungee jumping for this to apply. Activities like water skiing, motor scooter riding, horseback riding and scuba diving are all subject to limitations by some insurance companies. In some cases, you will have to pay an additional premium on your travel insurance for these types of experiences. If you’re planning to enjoy any of these, you’ll want to double-check with your provider to find out exactly what is and isn’t covered.
I know I have medical coverage, but what if my belongings are lost or stolen?
Some insurance providers do offer coverage for items like cameras, phones, computers, jewelry and important documents. This type of insurance isn’t more valuable then medical insurance (things can be replaced, lives cannot), but if you have the ability to cover both, it’s a great addition. No one expects to have their valuables taken while on a trip, but it can happen. This type of coverage provides extra peace of mind.
By asking these three simple questions, you can avoid a world of headache later. Don’t wait until it’s too late to get the answers. Do it now so you can focus on what matters most while you’re away: rest, relaxation, and fun in the sun!
