First things first. If you travel, you need travel insurance. Not convinced? Read this.
Clever people plan ahead. That doesn’t mean that clever people are depressed or worried all the time. They just know that travel involves things they can’t predict. A volcano expert may predict an eruption – you and I are unlikely to know much about it until our flight home is delayed or cancelled.
1. What is the biggest myth about travel insurance?
There is only one thing worse than being delayed, stuck, robbed, ill or injured. Having no back up plan. And with travel, your best back up plan = insurance.
“The biggest myth is this – “I never buy insurance because nothing has ever happened to me and I won’t need it.” That’s not true of life on this planet!” Lim Wen Hwei, Claims Manager, DirectAsia.com
2, Your travel insurance claim – what you should know
If you need to claim for medical expenses, you must be aware of how much your policy covers. Also, you are required to pay the expenses you are claiming for up front and then apply for reimbursement through your travel insurance policy.
3. How to make a claim while travelling
“Make sure you take your insurance policy number and the emergency contact details away with you. This is so you know exactly who to speak to first if you have a problem and it can be dealt with as quickly as possible. If you're travelling abroad, check you've got the right phone number.” citizensadvice.org.uk
4. How to make a claim from home
Contact your insurer as soon as possible and download the quick and easy claim form. Check that you are within the claims time limit and have fulfilled the terms and conditions of your policy. Complete the claim form carefully. Include copies of all police reports, receipts or medical certificates. You may be able to email these documents to you to speed things up.
Remember to keep copies of the claim form and supporting documents for your records.
5. Making a claim for a medical emergency
“If you need medical treatment while you're away, try to contact your insurer straightaway and get them to agree to the treatment. You should do this before it's carried out, although this may not be possible in an emergency. Always make sure you get receipts for any treatment or medication you're given.” citizensadvice.org.uk