Backpacking is becoming a more popular option among young travelers these days, because it enables them to discover many new places and cultures around the world. Backpackers travel on a budget, and they are exposed to higher risks of accidents, injuries, and illnesses: it is important for every backpacker to get a good backpacker travel insurance policy to provide sufficient compensation for expenses that may be incurred in the event of emergencies.
Many travel insurance providers offer backpacker travel insurance policies with specialized coverage for backpackers. Such policies are offered at lower rates than single trip travel insurance policies, and provide better coverage for a longer period of time. The duration of coverage can range from a week to two years, and this makes backpacker insurance policies attractive even to those who want to spend an extended period of time visiting friends or relatives in foreign countries. Backpacker travel insurance policies also offer special coverage for certain sports and activities backpackers may participate in.
Those who are planning to purchase a backpacker travel insurance policy should look out for certain types of coverage including: emergency medical expenses, personal liability, cancellation, rescue and repatriation, cash, baggage, and personal belongings. Since many backpackers travel to developing countries where the hygiene standards are low and a variety of infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis are prevalent, the coverage for medical expenses is essential should they become ill. Backpackers are known to be more adventurous than ordinary travelers, and may take part in hazardous activities. Medical expenses coverage will provide compensation in the event of accidents. If the activities are particularly high-risk, such as scuba diving and rock climbing, they may have to apply for special coverage. The rescue and repatriation coverage will protect backpackers from the costs of hiring rescue services if they are seriously injured as well as transportation expenses required to send them home.
Backpackers can be quite unpredictable therefore, cancellation coverage is also necessary. If they fail to make a flight on time, or cannot travel because of illnesses, they can get compensation for the amount of money lost for canceling a trip. The cash as well as baggage and personal belongings coverage included in the backpacker travel insurance policy will protect them from damage, loss, or theft. This is especially important for travelers who carry large amounts of cash, valuable belongings and costly equipment. If the maximum compensation amount does not cover their personal belongings, backpackers can opt for special coverage offering higher compensation.
To find the right backpacker travel insurance policy, it is advisable to shop around and compare different offers before purchasing a particular policy.
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