As the searing UAE summer heat continues to keep us confined indoors, many will right now be booking a cheeky last minute getaway.
And of all the things that can put a dampener on planning a break, organizing travel insurance is probably up there with vaccinations and handing over office work. For many it might seem that even admitting you need financial protection is like placing a curse on the whole trip.
Indeed, according to our own recently published customer data people are really putting it off, with well over half (59 per cent) of regional travel insurance purchases being made within just five days of departure to the vacation destination. Astounding when you consider that one in six people will make a claim, whether it be for illness, loss of baggage, or delays.
Many of course, simply never bother to buy travel insurance - so here are our top five reasons why being covered is as important as that malaria jab.
Cancellations
Sometimes circumstances can upset your holiday plans before you even leave for your trip. Falling ill, being prevented from travelling due to unforeseen work circumstances, or even a death in the extended family, can stop your break in its tracks. By ensuring you have a travel insurance policy from the time you book your holiday you will be covered for cancellation for a range of reasons.
Medical issues and accidents
One of the most common causes of making a travel insurance claim is having an accident or falling ill and needing medical attention while away. And, depending on where you are and what the problem is, this can be extremely costly. With a good insurance policy, bills for medicines, hospital stays and even being returned to the UAE will be taken care of. Going skiing? You might want to think about the price of that air ambulance.
Possessions and baggage
If your bag gets stolen or lost, then travel cover will make it much easier to replace your clothes and possessions. Travel insurance policies can include cover to enable you to replace items either while you are away or when you return home.
Cash loss
Losing hard currency either from a robbery or just carelessness happens more than it should. You may be surprised to know that this is properly covered by many good insurance policies.
Peace of mind
The best reason we know for getting insurance is simply banishing worry. You've worked hard to enjoy that break, so why let the fear of calamity take away even a minute of the fun?
By Jon Richards
