How to Choose Your Travel Insurance

Last week I explained all the steps on how to plan your trip abroad, and one of the topics that I briefly discussed was travel insurance.

Travel Insurance, like any type of insurance, is not something people like to talk about. You have to read your policy carefully, understand what you’re covered for, and do it all without breaking the bank.

I’ve been traveling around world for over seven years. In this time I have developed a few keys to choosing the right travel insurance.

I currently have the Professional Travel Program Policy with Allianz Travel Insurance, and here’s how I chose it.

First, I look for a plan that offers annual coverage. If you’re making more than a few trips per year, it’s worth holding onto one policy. This way you don’t have to consistency go back and adjust your travel insurance.

I like knowing that I get the assistance from Allianz Global Assistance all year around. Not to mention their easy-to-use Mobile App, TravelSmart.

Second, I read through the policy and ensure that the travel insurance plan covers particular aspects of the trip that I need. My plan covers up to $20,000 in Emergency Medical Transportation, which is very important to me because I often find myself in some pretty remote locations.

Another important benefit is Trip Cancellation Protection. With this plan I am covered up to $1,000 in case of any unforeseen issues with travel plans.

One of the most important things I’ve learned from this life of travel is the importance of being flexible. Thanks to Allianz, I feel a lot more comfortable with last minute trip changes and cancellations.

Lastly, it helps to know the people who are insuring you, and I have had the opportunity to meet and interact with the Allianz team at the New York Times Travel Show. It feels good to have a face and a friendship with a travel partner, especially one that watches my back when I’m the road.

The world can be a lonely and intimidating place sometimes, so it’s good to have the support of a great group of people.

Disclaimer: I have partnered with and receive financial compensation from Allianz Global Assistance. However, everything written in this post is from and based upon my own annual policy.

Gareth

My name is Gareth Leonard, a Marketing Director turned World Traveler with a passion for slow, meaningful travel. I have been traveling the world full-time for the past 9+ years and document it all on Instagram and YouTube. Come join me!