” Travel insurance ” should be the only thing you ever buy that you hope never to use. Nevertheless, it remains a vital investment – one we feel no traveler should ever be without. But how can you ensure that in your time of need, your policy will be there for you, paying out and covering you just as expected? Well, you can’t. But you can be prepared in case of an emergency and be well informed from the start about what is appropriate for your travel plans.

Having sold travel insurance and for eight years while working as a travel agent in New Zealand and the United Kingdom, I have become all too familiar with policy wordings, exclusions, and general insurance terms. I can tell you now, it is as tedious and boring as it seems. However, my experience has taught me the key points to look out for when choosing a policy, and the basic details to know while on the road, to ensure you do not mess up a claim or end up in a vulnerable situation. Here are 8 things you must know about ” best travel insurance,” to make sure you comply with the nitty-gritty of your policy and don’t get screwed over if the time comes to make a claim.

1. Timely Communication

When shit hits the fan it can be stressful, worrying and insurance practicalities might be the last thing on your mind. But if you want that claim to be honored then it’s important to know exactly what you need to do, and when you need to do it.

Had your camera stolen? Been mugged? You need to get a police report within 24 hours to present it with your claim. Had an accident and need to be hospitalized? You (or someone on your behalf) must contact the emergency medical assistance team immediately and get authorization. Caught up in a natural catastrophe and need to be evacuated to a safe place? You should contact the emergency assistance team immediately. And you have to do so prior to arranging any evacuation transport that you intend to claim for.

These are just a few examples of things that could go wrong. The exact requirements of your travel insurance provider will be outlined in the formulation of your insurance policy, so be sure to read it carefully and pay attention to it.

2. Know Your Emergency Contacts & Procedures

This goes hand in hand with point one and is something you have to take note of before leaving for your trip.

” Contact Details ”

Write down the phone number and email of the 24-hour emergency medical assistance service, the number to call if you find yourself in the midst of a natural catastrophe or political unrest, and any other important contact details explained in your policy. Stick them in your phone, keep a note of them in your wallet, and pass them onto a close relative or friend back home and your travel buddy on the road. Have them flagged in your email account as well, or wherever else it is easy to access online. My point is, you need to be able to access the contact details as quickly and easily as possible if you need them in an emergency.

”Documents & Procedures”

It is very important to know the correct procedure if something goes wrong and you need medical help. You should also be clear on what documents you might need before your trip. for example, If you are traveling in Europe…

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