When it comes to holidays, travellers are urged to embark on their vacation planning journey promptly, ensuring a well-deserved break filled with memorable experiences.
While excitement for the upcoming adventure builds, savvy travellers are reminded of the importance of meticulous planning and safeguarding against unforeseen circumstances through comprehensive travel medical insurance.
Planning a trip in advance offers a multitude of benefits, from securing the best deals on accommodations and activities to creating a seamless itinerary. However, one aspect often overlooked is the necessity of travel insurance, particularly travel medical insurance, which serves as the undercover superhero of holiday travel.
Travel medical insurance stands as a crucial safeguard against the unexpected twists and turns that may occur during travelling time. Whether it’s a sudden illness or an unforeseen injury, having adequate coverage ensures that travellers can navigate through such challenges with peace of mind.
With the unpredictability of travel, comprehensive insurance coverage becomes not just a precaution but a necessity, enabling travellers to explore the world confidently.
Sanlam’s preferred healthcare providers, Bonitas and Fedhealth, have emphasised the significance of travel medical insurance in mitigating stress and potentially exorbitant expenses during holiday trips stating many insurers and banks offer free international travel insurance, yet it’s essential for travellers to activate their policy in advance and carefully review the coverage details.
According to Fedhealth, travel insurance could potentially save travellers hundreds or even thousands of rands, offering a smart and responsible way to ensure protection and peace of mind while enjoying their holiday.
However, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the terms and limitations of the policy, including any exclusions and coverage caps.
Sanlam advises travellers to prioritise travel medical insurance for several reasons:
- Protection from unexpected health issues during holidays, ensuring peace of mind.
- Global coverage, providing assistance regardless of the destination.
- Financial relief by covering medical expenses abroad, preventing financial strain.
- Access to high-quality healthcare facilities, particularly beneficial in countries with limited healthcare infrastructure.
- Repatriation coverage, ensuring proper care and transportation back home if needed.
“Depending on your needs and holiday plans, you may also want to top up cover to ensure it includes permanent disablement or pre-existing conditions. Think about what you can afford and the kind of cover you need and pick your policy accordingly,” Sanlam said.
“Ask yourself: How long you need cover for (many plans extend cover for up to 45 days), where you’re going, what activities you’re planning on doing, how costly and accessible medical care is in your holiday destination, whether you need cover for a pre-existing condition, and if you want access to a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline.
“Travelling without travel medical insurance can leave you vulnerable to significant financial burdens in case of a medical emergency.
Protect your well-being and ensure a stress-free and memorable travel experience by activating your travel medical insurance before you set off on your adventure.”
When selecting travel insurance, Hollard recommends the following essential tips to ensure optimal coverage and value for money:
- Read product disclosure statement (PDS): Before purchasing travel insurance, always read the PDS to understand the policy’s details.
- Understand coverage limits: Ensure you comprehend what the insurance covers as it’s not unlimited.
- Clarify policy issues: Speak with your insurer to clear up any confusion or questions about the policy.
- Review excess terms: Carefully read the policy to identify any excess and where it applies.
- Assess medical coverage: Ensure the medical coverage is adequate for potential expenses in your destination country, particularly in regions with high medical costs like the US, Europe, Africa, and some parts of Asia.
- Declare pre-existing conditions: Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions you have to ensure proper coverage.
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