If traveling, whether short or long term, you must have a good travel insurance cover for your backpacking trip. Not only is it good, but it is also essential. Hospital and medical bills while abroad can be extremely costly, so you should not take the risk of having to pay them in case of an accident. But, if you’re properly covered with an insurance plan, you can have the peace of mind of knowing you will get the services and help needed in case of an unforeseen event. Here are a few things to consider to get the best backpacker travel insurance for the best price:
Maximum Coverage– Your maximum coverage is one of the most important things to check when comparing travel insurance. It will dictate how much will the insurance pay in case you get injured, how much of your medical bill will be covered, and how much will the insurance company will pay you in case your baggage is lost. A good insurance will have a coverage of no less than $1 million dollars. If you’re an active sports player or an adventurous backpacker, you need to look for a higher coverage that runs between the $3 to $5 millions.
Copayment– When comparing insurance plans you need to look at how much extra money you will have to pay in case you get injured, require medicines, lose your luggage, or have your money stolen. Some insurance companies charge as much as $250 for copayment, and more. That is fine for a large medical bill but not so much if you lost your $40 daypack and want to cover it. Some copayment can be as low as $30, which can make a big difference in your pocket, the claims you make, and your travel experience.
Extreme Sports– Typically extreme sports are not included in the basic coverage of most travel insurance plans. If you’re an active sports player while traveling, make sure that the insurance you pick while comparing them is one that includes sports coverage. Talk to a specialist to see which sports are included and under which circumstances you are covered. There are a few insurance policies that are designed specifically for sports.
Yearly Coverage– If you plan to travel for an extended period of time or will travel more than 3 times per year, you should consider buying an annual coverage. It will not only cover you for a year, but it will reduce the tedious process of selecting an insurance policy to just once per year. Also, it will help you save time and money since it is a comprehensive way to keep yourself protected.
