Round the clock room service, clean accommodation, but it is a tourist’s nightmare. You’re not in a hotel, you are in the hospital, having had the misfortune of getting sick in the middle of what was supposed to be a dream vacation. And the worst is that you’ll be spending more on health care than you would in a real trip.
Travelers often think travel insurance is just a waste of money – it’s a waste of something that probably will not use anyway. Forego insurance can be a difficult decision. In order to help you reach the right decision the following questions should be:
What is your current insurance coverage? If you already have a insurance, you may not need any other insurance. Some policies cover the treatment worldwide.
What are the limitations of the proposed plan? Try to find out the conditions offered by the plan and the conditions for coverage. You do not want to be surprised when you get to use the plan.
Where is your destination? Study the places you will visit. ¿Environment poses more health risks?
Are you the type who frequently visit the doctor? Determine the number of times you have visited a doctor or hospital in recent months. People who care about their health are much better off getting health insurance.
Do you get sick often? If you are the type that traps insects easily then insurance is the best option.
How much would the insurance cost? Ultimately, you will want to consider how much to spend. If you already pay for health care then pay for time on the trip should be more than just another incidental expense to you.
What are the limits of the plan you are considering? Would you incurring any costs on the road, or you want to take your chances with a high deductible? Does the policy cover ER visit if you cut yourself in the kitchen Sydney hostel? What about emergency evacuation? Will you be in a place with good medical care or waiting to be sent to another country in case of serious injury or treatment?
Travel insurance, although it is often overlooked that it is not necessary, it can be well worth the small expense when you are at the mercy of healthcare abroad and environmental risks of foreign countries.
