Travel Smarter with Travel Insurance

While travel insurance may seem like an extra expense and added hassle, your getaway to the tropics or the high desert is an investment worth protecting. The cost of travel insurance is typically 5%-6% of total trip costs, which is well worth adding to your vacation budget, considering how much time and planning goes into an extended cross-border vacation. 

Travel insurance is key for snowbirds who want peace of mind no matter how many hiccups may occur. Tropical storms and weather delays can be devastating to your destination happy, and adequate travel insurance can help cover losses incurred by inclement weather, natural disasters, and emergency cancellations due to illness, family emergencies, and more. Some travel insurance plans cover flight delays, cancellations, or missed connections. Delayed, lost, or stolen luggage is another mishap that can quickly make that trip to the beach fall flat. Some airlines offer reimbursements for expenses due to lost belongings, but travel insurance can get you back on your (sandal-clad) feet without having to foot the bill for a new wardrobe. 

Medical expenses are another huge consideration for snowbirds shopping for travel insurance. Out-of-country medical care costs can stack up quickly and ruin what was meant to be a relaxing vacation. Maybe you’re snorkeling and get knocked into a coral reef by the tide, or you get seriously ill and need to head to the ER. Without travel insurance, all costs will come directly out of your pocket. If you need to be airlifted from that beautiful little island that was supposed to be a day trip, an emergency medical evacuation will cost anywhere from $15,000-$200,000. Travel insurance can cover all of these expenses, allowing you to jet set with peace of mind while mitigating financial risks. 

Travel insurance plans can be purchased through a number of providers, but snowbirds should compare plans carefully. Coverage purchased through a credit card often includes heavy limitations and restrictions based on age or pre-existing conditions. While group insurance can be a good option, these plans only cover medical needs, not other travel emergencies like last-minute cancellations or delays. Individual travel insurance can be purchased and is best used as a supplement to your existing travel insurance policy.