How to Compare Travel Insurance – Levels of Cover, Benefits & More

Comparing your travel insurance choices is often the best way to obtain the most competitive travel insurance cover for your trip. But what sorts of things should you compare and review? And how can you be sure your chosen travel insurance could mean the ultimate care-free journey?

1. Levels of Cover

When comparing travel insurance packages, it is beneficial to understand how much insurance cover you need.

• Make a list of all the areas that you want insurance for and decide how much cover you need for each (e.g. $2,000 or $10,000?). This can make it much easier to see which providers can give you the level of cover you are looking for
• Cover you might want to make a priority in your policy can include: medical, hospital, baggage, valuables, trip cancellations, emergency flights home, delays (travel or baggage), sports/activities equipment or business equipment

2. Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

• When comparing your travel insurance choices, consider the terms each provider has about pre-existing medical conditions; it could be beneficial to look for a provider who is more accepting of your condition than others
• Providers who don’t require medical certificates and documentation upfront (i.e. until you make a claim) can also make the comparing and choosing process much easier

3. Medical Cover

Medical cover is one of the most standard inclusions in all travel insurance policies. However, it is a good idea to compare the different medical entitlements and limits offered by each provider and to make sure that the medical coverage you choose will satisfy your needs.

4. Sports & Activities

If you will be engaging in high risk sports or activities during your trip, it is important to secure cover for these also.

• When comparing your travel insurance choices, consider which policy or upgrade will bring you the most beneficial cover for your intended activities
• You should also keep an eye out for various limits placed on your chosen activities, such as diving to a certain depth or white water rafting to a certain level

5. Excesses

Excesses are sums of money you will be required to pay before your travel insurance provider will begin paying your claims.

• Comparing excesses is usually quite easy and will give you an idea of which provider offers more competitive excess amounts
• You can also look out for providers that offer flexibility in the way of excess waivers (so you won’t have to pay an excess when claiming) or increased excesses (to keep your premiums down)

6. Exclusions

Exclusions will be common to most policies. You should be able to compare your travel insurance exclusions by reviewing your policy and your Product Disclosure Statement.

7. Additional Benefits

It’s often the small things that count! Additional benefits included in your travel insurance can make it all the more appealing. You might want to consider looking out for 24/7 emergency support, free cover for children, easy approval and claims processes.

The Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can also assist in comparing which level of cover is right for you, so make sure to read this or contact our customer service agents before you buy to understand your options.

If you need help comparing your travel insurance choices or simply deciding what type of cover is right for you, InsureandGo can help. Get in touch with our friendly travel insurance team today!