If you’ve booked a holiday but haven’t sorted your travel insurance yet, do it now. The biggest misconception about travel insurance is that it’s only for when you’re abroad. In reality, half of its value lies in protecting you before you head to the airport. If an emergency stops you from going, insurance is the only thing standing between you and a total loss of your booking costs.
What’s Actually Covered?
While every policy has its “fine print,” the goal of travel insurance is to protect you from unforeseen problems that would otherwise leave you out of pocket. While insurance can’t stop a flight from being cancelled, it can make it much easier to recoup your costs and manage the stress.
Most policies focus on three main areas: Cancellations, Medical Emergencies, and Luggage.
1. Cancellations
Cancellation cover is the strongest reason to buy insurance early.
Important: You are only covered for “unforeseen” events. If you book a flight after a strike has been announced or a weather warning is in place, you likely won’t be covered for that specific event.
You are generally covered for serious illness, injury, bereavement, or being called for jury service. However, “disinclination to travel” (simply changing your mind) is almost never covered.
2. Luggage & Belongings
Whether your bags are lost by the airline or stolen while you’re out for dinner, insurance provides the funds to replace your essentials.
- Check the Limits: Most policies have a “Single Item Limit.” If your suitcase is worth €1,500 but your limit is €250, you won’t get the full value back for a lost designer watch or laptop.
- High-Value Gadgets: For expensive electronics, consider a specific gadget add-on or check if your Home Insurance covers personal items outside the house.
3. Medical Cover & Repatriation
Medical costs abroad can be astronomical, especially if you’re travelling outside the EU to places like the USA.
- Beyond the EHIC: An EHIC card won’t pay for an air ambulance to bring you back to Ireland (repatriation), but a good insurance policy will.
- Activity Risks: Standard policies often exclude “high-risk” activities. If you’re planning on jet-skiing or mountain biking, check that your policy specifically includes these, or you may be left footing a massive medical bill yourself.
Don’t Forget the Extras
You shouldn’t pay for what you don’t need. If you’re just lounging by a pool in Spain, you can skip the Winter Sports or Golf cover. However, if you are doing anything specialised, disclose it. It’s always better to pay a slightly higher premium now than to have a €20,000 claim denied later because you forgot to mention a medical condition or a planned skydive.
Still unsure if your trip is fully covered? Don’t leave it to chance. Have a look through your policy documentation, and if you can’t find the answer, get in touch with an agent who can give you the go-ahead.
Key Takeaways: The Essentials
- Buy Cover Immediately: Secure your policy the moment you book your flights or accommodation to protect against pre-departure cancellations.
- Total Honesty: Always declare all pre-existing medical conditions. Failing to do so is the main reason claims are rejected.
- Match the Policy to the Trip: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Ensure it covers your specific plans (e.g., skiing in the Alps, scuba diving, or a golfing weekend).
- The GHIC/EHIC Factor: Carry your EHIC (or GHIC if applicable) for travel within the EU. It provides access to state healthcare, but remember: it is not a substitute for proper insurance.
