Retreat Blueprints: Why You Need to Have Travel Insurance

As frequent travelers, many of our guests ask us all kinds of travel questions— from how to book the best flight to what they should pack for their trip. Or, from how to stay safe while traveling, to whether or not travel insurance is worthwhile. Actually, “Why do I need travel insurance?” might be the most common unasked question for our guests. 



That’s why we’ve decided to start this special blog series, the Retreat Blueprints! Every month we’ll answer important and frequently asked travel questions to help serve you and our guests in having the best possible experience. First up, we’re going to talk about why you need to have travel insurance

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Why do I need travel insurance?


Travel insurance is just like any other insurance… it’s something you always want to have, and hope you never need! And when you’re planning a big international trip, nothing is more comforting than that extra layer of security. That inner knowing that IF something goes wrong, you’re protected. 

Why do you need travel insurance? Because you just never know what's going to happen. Let’s be honest, most of us can’t afford to lose our travel and vacation investment!



Here’s a list of some of the coverage options that can be included in your travel insurance:

  • Flight replacement: This can vary, from covering if your flight is delayed or cancelled, or even if you miss your flight! Especially for illness, surprise changes in plans, etc. 

  • Luggage Loss: If your luggage is lost en route, your travel insurance should cover a hotel for the night, and a full replacement of luggage should it all be gone for good.

  • Medical coverage: If you’re traveling internationally, your medical coverage probably won’t cover you. Having international travel insurance to cover any emergency illness or injuries can be a real lifesaver! 

  • Lost or stolen items: While you hope and pray this never happens to you, you can’t always be certain. And having your items covered, in case of an incident, is VERY helpful. 


The most important reason you should have travel insurance is for trip cancellation! 

  • Trip Cancellation: If something happens and you need to cancel your trip, you’ll be very thankful for your travel insurance. If you have travel insurance with trip cancellation benefits, you can get fully reimbursed for your trip. Even if its prepaid, and even if it is non-refundable. Of course, there is always fine print. You must cancel for a covered reason, and that can include death, illness, or serious injury to you, a travel partner, or a family member. It can also cover natural disasters, pandemics, or other events that make your destination a no-go. 

© Q.U.I

© Q.U.I

Finally, its recommended by the US Department of State that you have travel insurance


What’s the first thing you ought to do if you have an emergency while traveling overseas? Well, naturally, most American travelers call the local U.S. embassy. Which is a great idea! As long as you only need to replace your passport, contact family and friends, or you need help with local communications and finding medical care of legal assistance. 

 

Sadly, beyond those listed the embassy’s power is quite limited. They can connect you with resources, but they can’t do much more. Really, they cannot pay for your medical care or provide emergency transportation back home (usually).

 

This is the number one reason why the US State Department advises American travelers to purchase travel insurance. More specifically, they suggest you get travel insurance that includes the works! Like emergency medical benefits, emergency medical transportation benefits, and coverage for other unexpected expenses, like trip cancellation, flight changes, and lost or stolen luggage.

 

Trust us, travel insurance is a must for any international adventure!

At Drishti Journeys we assist our guests with about a half a dozen insurance claims each year, often to those who expect it the least, making this a seamless process for an otherwise stressful procedure.

And since you’re traveling soon, check out these other great posts we’ve shared to inspire and help you plan your next trip!

GenelLynne Rivera