Many would still recall Amex’s famous advertising tagline – “don’t leave home without it”. Today, discerning consumers would say “don’t travel without travel insurance”. Purchasing the right travel insurance is essential before you go on holiday or for a business trip. Be prepared for the unexpected and any unforeseen circumstances when you are abroad. For a small premium, you can now travel with an added peace of mind and enjoy protection from unexpected losses.
No two insurance plans are alike. Likewise, benefits and protection vary from the various plans offered by airlines and insurance companies. Choose a suitable travel insurance plan that suits your specific requirements. And always remember this – cheaper plans do not provide adequate cover.
Is free travel insurance adequate when I swipe my credit card for an air ticket or package tour purchase? Better than nothing but more often than not, the insurance protection is very basic, covering travel accident insurance, loss or delay of luggage and missed flight connections.
Do shop around and compare the benefits, protection a
nd exclusions. Comprehensive travel insurance plans should include:
- Medical, surgical and hospitalization charges incurred overseas, and follow-up treatment in Malaysia
- Trip cancellation due to illness or injury, death of a family member or due to strike or civil unrest
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Loss of travel deposit – remember a leading travel agency that went bust several years back? You can seek reimbursement of pre-paid and non-refundable travel expenses incurred as a result of insolvency of the travel agent. Only applicable to Malaysian registered travel agencies
Check out popular ravel insurance plans offered by leading insurers – Allianz, Chartis, MSIG Malaysia and airlines – Air Asia GoInsure and MHinsure.
Travel Tips – Buy your travel insurance promptly and as soon as you have purchased your holiday tour or air ticket. For greater savings, purchase an insured and spouse or family plan instead of an individual plan if you are traveling with your spouse and family members.
You can also enjoy more discounts if you buy travel insurance directly from an insurance company. Consider an annual travel insurance plan instead of a single trip plan for greater value if you travel more than four times a year for business or leisure. And always remember to read the fine print.
