Though most people have some form of medical insurance, few policies cover medical costs incurred when a person travels outside the United States. Getting a travel insurance policy before departing on an international trip ensures that a person is covered should anything unforeseen happen. Accessing travel insurance once it’s been purchased is as important as buying the actual policy.
Travel insurance policies can cover everything from a standard doctor’s visit to catastrophic incidents. Your age, length of trip and the type of policy will determine its price. Most travel insurance agencies suggest buying a travel insurance policy seven to 30 days prior to leaving. Buying it early leaves time for paperwork to be filed and the policy to take effect. In addition, some insurers offer additional coverages for people who buy policies early.
In the same way that insurers offer different rates and degrees of coverage, they likely have different processes for accessing travel insurance when filing a claim. This information should be carefully explained when the travel insurance policy is purchased. Companies typically offer two ways to file a claim; by phone or online.
Travel insurance companies have toll-free numbers dedicated to claims filing and follow-up. Some operate 24 hours a day while others are only available during business hours. Filing a claim typically requires the caller to know his travel insurance account or policy number. If that number isn’t readily available, many companies can access the information using a person’s name and birth date or social security number. The same applies when filing a claim on line.
Accessing travel insurance means more than knowing how to file a claim. It also means knowing what is covered under the policy and what is not. There are two kinds of travel insurance: one that covers the person traveling and the other alternative that covers the trip itself.
Trip insurance reimburses the insured in the event that travel plans are cancelled and a monetary loss is incurred for reasons outside the traveler’s control. This can include everything from a travel warning being issued, to a tour operator going out of business or even a death in the family. Again, it’s important to know what is covered and how that coverage is accessed. Know for sure how to file a proper claim so that it doesn’t get delayed or returned because it requires additional information.
In order to properly access travel insurance, a copy of the policy should be packed in a suitcase or purse and kept with the traveler for easy reference. A second copy should be kept in a different location, and a third copy kept at home where someone who didn’t travel can access it as well. Finally, make sure to keep all receipts and records related to your trip costs as well as any expenses that you will be submitting a claim for.
