The 3 Best Travel Insurance Options for Seniors
Travel insurance can be particularly valuable to seniors, who generally experience more health issues than younger travelers. When preparing for a trip, individuals should consider plans that cover medical emergencies, as well as the following travel insurance offerings:
- Trip Cancellations. In addition to personal reasons, a trip may be canceled due to weather disturbances and other unforeseen circumstances that can leave travelers on the financial hook.
- Stolen Luggage. In addition to clothing, luggage may contain medicines, and other valuable items that travel insurance should cover.
- Pre-existing Conditions. Those with preexisting medical conditions may need to purchase waivers in case their basic travel insurance doesn’t provide holistic coverage.
- Medical Emergencies. Because seniors are more subject to medical emergencies than younger travelers, they should secure full medical coverage that pays for potential transportation costs.
- Medical Evacuations. Medical coverage does not automatically pay for transportation, in the event an evacuation necessitates an emergency trip back home.
- Travel Advice/Emergency Assistance. In the event of a language barrier, senior travelers may need to make toll-free calls, in order to obtain medical advice in their native tongues.
Focus on the Fine Print
It is vital to thoroughly scrutinize policies, which often mandate the purchase of coverage at least 10 to 14 days before starting travel dates. Make sure that there is a free look period, with an option to cancel and receive a full refund. Other important fine print items include:
- Exceptions. No single insurance policy covers all expenses, so it’s wise to examine the exceptions listed in the fine print to learn about hidden additional costs.
- Exclusions. Exclusion restrict coverage in certain situations, such as self-inflicted injuries, trauma from extreme sports like bungee jumping, or losses incurred due to intoxication or criminal activity.
- Incomplete Documentation. When filing a claim, be sure to fill out the paperwork thoroughly and accurately. Failure to do so may result in delayed or canceled coverage.