The Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance: Tips Every Traveller Needs to Know
Why Travel Insurance Matters
Peace of Mind on the Go
Ever had a trip where things didn’t go as planned? From lost luggage to a surprise hospital visit in a foreign country, travel insurance acts as your invisible safety net. It’s the one thing you buy hoping you’ll never have to use—but if you do, you’ll be thankful you have it.
Coverage for Unexpected Events
Flights get delayed, bags go missing, and people get sick. Travel insurance steps in to cover medical costs, reimburse cancellations, and replace lost belongings.
Mandatory Insurance for Some Countries
Some countries—like those in the Schengen Zone—won’t even let you in without proof of travel insurance. It’s not just smart; sometimes, it’s required.
What Travel Insurance Typically Covers
Medical Emergencies Abroad
A sudden illness or injury overseas can drain your savings faster than you think. Travel insurance often covers hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency evacuations, and more.
Trip Cancellation or Interruption
If you or a loved one falls ill before or during a trip, insurance can cover non-refundable bookings—like flights or hotel stays.
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Luggage
If your luggage takes a detour—or disappears entirely—your insurer can reimburse you for clothes, toiletries, and other essentials.
Travel Delays and Missed Connections
Got stuck overnight in Singapore because of a storm? Travel insurance often covers accommodation, meals, and rescheduled flights.
Personal Liability and Legal Expenses
If you accidentally damage property or injure someone while overseas, this cover can help with legal fees and compensation.
Understanding Policy Types
Single-Trip vs. Annual Multi-Trip
Planning one holiday this year? A single-trip policy works fine. But if you travel often, an annual multi-trip plan could save you money and hassle.
Domestic vs. International Travel Insurance
Don’t assume you only need travel insurance for overseas trips. Domestic plans cover cancellations, delays, and lost items within New Zealand.
Comprehensive vs. Basic Plans
Comprehensive policies offer broader protection, while basic plans cover the essentials. Choose based on your trip’s complexity and risk level.
Common Exclusions You Should Know
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Not all pre-existing conditions are covered unless declared. Be honest during application to avoid claim rejections.
High-Risk Activities and Adventure Sports
Planning to skydive or go bungee jumping? You might need extra coverage—many policies exclude high-adrenaline activities.
Travel Against Government Advice
Travelling to a country with a “Do Not Travel” advisory? Your insurance likely won’t cover you there.
Non-Disclosure or Incorrect Information
Always give accurate information when purchasing your policy. Misrepresentation can void your coverage.
Travel Insurance Tips from Tower
Start with the Right Plan for Your Trip
Tower’s travel insurance offers flexibility for all types of travellers. Choose a plan that matches your itinerary and risk level.
Declare Any Pre-existing Conditions Honestly
Transparency is key. Tower allows you to declare conditions so you know exactly what is and isn’t covered.
Read the Fine Print
It’s not the most exciting read, but your policy wording is important. Know your limits, exclusions, and excess amounts.
Keep Digital and Physical Copies Handy
Store your policy details on your phone and carry a hard copy. It’s a lifesaver in areas with limited connectivity.
Use the Tower Mobile App for Easy Access
Tower’s app makes it easy to view your policy, get support, and make claims on the go.
Real-Life Scenarios: When Travel Insurance Saved the Day
Medical Emergency in Southeast Asia
A Kiwi backpacker fell ill in Thailand. Thanks to travel insurance, his hospital bills and emergency flight back home were fully covered.
Flight Cancellations Due to Weather
A family stuck in Sydney due to a cyclone received reimbursement for extra hotel nights and meals.
Lost Baggage in Europe
One traveller’s suitcase never made it to Paris. Insurance paid out enough for new clothes and toiletries within hours.
COVID-19 Related Disruptions
When borders closed unexpectedly, Tower’s COVID-19 cover helped a stranded couple reschedule flights and extend accommodation.
How to Make a Claim Successfully
Gather All Relevant Documentation
Receipts, police reports, doctor’s notes—you’ll need proof. Keep everything related to your claim.
Contact Your Insurer Immediately
The sooner you inform Tower, the smoother the process. Use the app or hotline to lodge your claim.
Follow the Claims Process Step-by-Step
Tower provides a clear path to file claims. Just follow the prompts and provide the requested information.
Be Honest and Detailed
Transparency and detail matter. The more accurate your information, the quicker your claim can be processed.
Travel Insurance and COVID-19
What’s Covered and What’s Not
Tower offers cover for cancellations, medical expenses, and interruptions due to COVID-19—but there are limits. Always check the latest updates.
Tower’s Approach to Pandemic Cover
Tower has adjusted its policies to reflect the new travel landscape. They aim to keep Kiwis protected as rules and risks evolve.
Travel Bubbles and Insurance Implications
When travel bubbles open or close suddenly, insurance becomes even more important. Be ready for the unexpected.
Tips for Specific Traveller Types
Solo Travellers
Make sure your policy includes emergency repatriation and personal safety coverage.
Families with Kids
Look for family plans that cover children for free or at discounted rates.
Seniors and Retirees
Choose policies with strong medical coverage. Declare all health conditions and carry a copy of your prescriptions.
Business Travellers
Include cover for electronics and missed meetings or events.
Adventure Seekers
Add specific cover for high-risk sports and gear loss.
How to Save on Travel Insurance
Compare Policies
Don’t settle for the first option. Compare Tower’s plans with others to find the right fit.
Bundle with Other Insurance
Already using Tower for your home or car insurance? Bundling could unlock discounts.
Choose a Higher Excess
A higher excess means a lower premium. Just ensure you can afford the upfront cost if you claim.
Only Pay for What You Need
Avoid unnecessary extras. Tailor your plan to your specific travel type and needs.
The Role of Travel Insurance in Smart Travel Planning
Budgeting for the Unexpected
A solid travel insurance policy is like a backup wallet. It ensures your trip doesn’t become a financial disaster.
Aligning Travel Plans with Insurance Scope
Make sure your activities and destinations are fully covered by your policy.
Using Insurance to Enhance Travel Confidence
Knowing you’re covered helps you relax, explore more, and travel with confidence.
Tower Travel Insurance Features You’ll Love
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Tower’s emergency hotline ensures help is just a phone call away—anytime, anywhere.
Easy Online Claims
Tower’s digital process makes filing claims quick and painless.
Customisable Coverage
Add what you need and leave what you don’t. Tailor your policy to suit your journey.
COVID-19 Benefits and Support
Tower’s pandemic-specific options give you flexibility in today’s travel climate.
FAQs About Travel Insurance
1. Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?
Yes, Tower offers coverage for cancellations and medical issues related to COVID-19. Always check your specific policy.
2. Can I get insured if I have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, but you must declare it. Tower will assess the risk and let you know what’s covered.
3. What happens if my flight is cancelled?
Travel insurance may cover extra accommodation, meals, and rebooking costs depending on the reason.
4. When should I buy travel insurance?
Buy it as soon as you book your trip to maximise cancellation and interruption cover.
5. Is travel insurance worth it for domestic trips?
Absolutely! Delays, cancellations, and lost luggage can happen even within New Zealand.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is more than a safety net—it’s a must-have for any smart traveller. Whether you’re going solo, with family, or off the beaten path, having the right policy from a trusted provider like Tower can turn a travel nightmare into a manageable hiccup. Don’t leave home without it—your future self will thank you.
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