What is travel insurance and where would I get it?

Factual Questions
1

First off, I don’t mean “trip cancellation insurance”. I know what that is.

I’m looking at this tour website, and they say:

This company is mainly aimed at foreign travelers in the US, and I’m not sure whether I would need this at all. In daily life, I have renter’s insurance and medical insurance, which cover all of my insurance needs. Does this give me something else? And if you do need travel insurance, where would you get it? I assume buying from the tour company is the worst possible place.

2

I was looking into this exact thing an hour ago. I found a place that sells what it sounds like you need - seems pretty cheap.

http://www.medexassist.com/

Click on “Individuals” and you can see the types of plans. I have no idea as to the reliability or trustworthiness of MEDEX - I just found them by doing a search.

3

If you pay for the trip using a credit card, check with the issuing company to see if trip insurance is provided as one of the card benefits.

4

Airlines/Airports used to sell ‘travel insurance’ to cover loss of life or limb while travelling on a scheduled airline. Most personal insurance policies did/do not cover accidental bodily loss on public conveyances.

5

In addition to the suggestions already made, you can generally buy trip insurance from the outfit (travel agency, auto club, etc.) that sold you your travel package. At least that was the case every I’ve booked a package.

6

I’m willing to bet that since you’re a native, you won’t need insurance.

You certainly won’t need to be repatriated. I just had a look at their site, and Americans are disqualified from most of their policy provisions (medical expenses and liability). Just to be safe, call them and ask.

7

In addition to all the above, if you are taking a cruise you can purchase insurance to cover helicopter airlift in case of medical emergency at sea.

8

Thanks all. I checked out the site missbunny gave, and they seem like just the place to buy it. Their rates are way more reasonable than the tour companies, at least for a shorter trip.

But considering none of their products seem to apply in this situation, it seems like I wouldn’t need it at all. I did shoot them an e-mail just in case.

9

When I traveled to Europe.I took the insurance,it made my trip more secure;it took care of me should I have an accident, my tickets were lost or stolen, If my plane was not availabe or if I chosed to return before time. I know a lady who couldn’t get her ticket money back,if she had insurance it would have paid her way back They also transpot you body if somethig should happen to you while you are abroad,the peace of mind was well wothr th $60 then.

Monavis

10

My Canadian friends buy travel insurance before they come over because they are accustomed to state-funded healthcare which won’t cover them if they get injured across the border.

11

I thought they did have plans that offered medical insurance and repatriation - no? I didn’t notice anything about baggage; not even sure what that means - is it in case your baggage gets lost?