A guide to buying travel insurance conveniently and at a good price

Travel opens up new horizons, but at the same time it creates certain risks that can upset your plans. Medical expenses abroad, a delayed flight, lost luggage or unforeseen situations during active leisure – all of this can result in significant financial losses. That is why travel insurance is a protection tool that guarantees support in critical circumstances. Getting an insurance policy takes minimal time, especially if you do it online, and a well-chosen package ensures full comfort and confidence on your trip.

What travel insurance for going abroad is

Travel insurance is a financial instrument designed to protect the traveller from expenses that may arise during a trip due to unforeseen circumstances. It provides prompt assistance and covers costs in case of illness. In effect, it is your reserve resource, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than on the risks. When planning a trip, it is worth buying travel insurance in advance so that you have round-the-clock support in case of force majeure.

Insurance is needed in order to:

• avoid high medical costs abroad, where treatment can cost dozens of times more;
• have round-the-clock support in case of a medical or organisational emergency;
• be able to resolve non-standard situations quickly without additional strain.

A standard contract includes compensation for the following risks:

1. Medical expenses. Payment for outpatient or inpatient treatment, a doctor’s call-out, tests, the purchase of medicines, emergency medical care.
2. Hospitalisation and medical transportation. Coverage of the cost of a hospital stay and transportation to the nearest medical facility.
3. Repatriation. Arranging the traveller’s return to their country of residence in case of a serious illness or accident.
4. 24/7 assistance. A hotline that coordinates the traveller’s actions, directs them to a hospital, provides consultations and helps in emergencies.

An extended policy offers additional options. This option is chosen by travellers who want to minimise risks completely or who are planning an action-packed holiday.

Extended options may include:

1. Coverage of active and extreme leisure. Insurance for skiing, diving, trekking, surfing, paragliding or other activities that increase the risk of injury.
2. Insurance of luggage and personal belongings. Compensation in case of loss, delay or damage of luggage by the airline.
3. Third-party liability coverage. Insurance of costs if the traveller accidentally causes damage to the property or health of other people.
4. Insurance against trip cancellation or interruption. Compensation for failed bookings, tickets or tours if the trip did not take place for valid reasons (illness, family circumstances, unforeseen events).
5. Coverage of COVID-19-related risks. Compensation of medical expenses, self-isolation or change of plans if the virus is diagnosed during the trip.
6. Legal support. Help with resolving disputes and consultations in case of legal difficulties abroad.

How to buy insurance online

Buying travel insurance online is a quick and advantageous way to get all the necessary guarantees before a trip.

Step 1. Decide on the country and dates of the trip

Insurance is issued for a specific period of stay abroad. Take the flight days into account so that the coverage is valid from the moment of departure.

Step 2. Choose the optimal sum insured

For trips to Europe, the minimum recommended sum insured is from 30,000 euros. For countries with high medical costs, it is better to choose a sum from 50,000 euros.

Step 3. Decide on additional options

Popular add-ons include:

• coverage for active sports;
• protection against COVID-19;
• luggage insurance;
• coverage of trip cancellation risks.

Step 4. Compare offers

Modern online insurance services let you compare offers from different insurance companies. On such platforms a discount promo code is often available, which allows you to reduce the cost of the contract. Thanks to this, travellers can get quality protection at the most reasonable price.

Step 5. Fill in your personal details

Usually you need passport details, date of birth and contact information. Enter all the details correctly to avoid problems when using the policy.

Step 6. Pay for the policy online

Payment is made by bank card. After that, the policy is automatically sent to your e-mail, and a copy can be downloaded as a PDF.

Step 7. Save the policy on your phone

In most cases the electronic version is enough. It is important to have it at hand, especially when going through passport control or visiting a medical facility.

Getting a policy online lets you save time, compare terms, choose advantageous offers and provide yourself with reliable protection.