Many unexpected things can happen when a person is traveling. Other than accidents, a traveler may lose their possessions to theft. Being a victim of theft is something many travelers experience, especially if traveling to a foreign country. Locals in a foreign country have the perception that tourists bring a lot of cash and valuables along, and this makes travelers a common target for thieves.

It is important for travelers to get a travel insurance policy that provides protection for cash and belongings before they travel. Although measures can be taken to prevent theft, sometimes, theft or loss of possessions can be quite inevitable. With a travel insurance policy that offers coverage for theft of personal effects, travelers can be sure they will get compensation for items stolen during their travel. The types of travel insurance coverage that provide protection against theft are baggage coverage, personal effects coverage, and cash coverage. These items are usually covered in a basic travel insurance policy, but some insurance providers may offer them as special coverage options. It is advisable that travelers get coverage for all their belongings, so they will get some compensation when theft occurs.

Most travel insurance policies only offer partial coverage for baggage or personal belongings, and it may come as compensation per item or set of items. Usually, there is a fixed rate of compensation regardless of the values of the items. Travelers should make a list of the things they are bringing with them including a record of the value of each item. Those who are bringing expensive items such as: jewelry, electronic gadgets, laptops, costly sports or activity equipment should get special coverage for these items, because ordinary travel insurance policies do not provide full coverage for them. There are certain types of policies that will compensate policy holders according to the current market value of each loss item.

Baggage coverage is most beneficial to travelers visiting a few different places when they travel. It provides protection for loss of baggage in the airport as well as other locations during travel, but some travel insurance policies only offer coverage for baggage within a certain city or region. Those who are traveling to many locations can pay extra cost to get unlimited area coverage.

Travelers need to report theft of their belongings to the police as soon as they can, so that they can get a police report to make claims for compensation. The best way travelers can protect themselves from theft is to keep a close watch on their belongings at all times when traveling.

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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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When people think of traveling, they like to think about exotic destinations and fun. While it goes against the central idea of traveling, the reality is many people become ill while traveling. Now that the Swine Flu is making its rounds, it’s even more important to guard yourself against illnesses (and strongly consider travel medical insurance). In the event that you become ill on vacation, here’s what to do:

Monitor the Situation: Don’t make the mistake of jumping into false conclusions. If you have a fever or flu, it doesn’t mean that it’s definitely something as serious as the Swine Flu or malaria. Assuming you have brought along your supply of over-the-counter medication to treat common illnesses, just take the recommended amount and watch what happens. It’s wise to monitor the situation on the more common illnesses such as fever, cough, stomach upset, and others. Sometimes, it’s just the body’s reaction to differences in climate, humidity, food, air, or extensive traveling. If the situation improves, you should have nothing to worry about, go ahead an enjoy your vacation. Otherwise, you will need to go to the next step.

Minor Illnesses: For the treatment of minor illnesses like cough, cold, and common fever, go to a local clinic. The doctor will be able to give you prescribed medication which may deal with your illnesses much more effectively than over-the-counter medication. If the doctor believes you may have developed a more serious condition, he will recommend that you be admitted to a hospital. Since the cost of visiting a doctor in a clinic is rather affordable, pay for it first and submit the claim to the travel insurance company later.

Major Illnesses: Sometimes, it’s rather difficult to assess the seriousness of an illness. In this sense, it’s logical to consider if the illness is life-threatening. For instance, you have been having a diarrhea after consuming some food in a restaurant and the condition worsens even after taking some over-the-counter medication. There’s now a high chance you are suffering from a serious bout of food poisoning; you will have to be admitted to a hospital as soon as possible. In another scenario, you may have suffered a heart attack while watching a show so it’s a rather straight forward hospital case. If admitted to a hospital, it’s extremely important to contact the local representative of your travel medical insurance company so necessary arrangements can be made. The cost of hospitalization can be rather astronomical, it’s best to check to be sure your policy covers the country of your vacation, before purchasing it.

Inform Your Loved Ones: This may not be necessary if you only suffer a minor illness, but if you are to be hospitalized, inform your loved ones as soon as possible.

To become ill while traveling can be discouraging. For this reason, you should know what to do in such a situation.

When people retire, they have more time to pursue their interests and dreams. They also have more time to travel. Blessed with higher spending power and other incentives, more and more senior citizens are traveling. Here are some useful travel tips for senior citizens, including the purchase of senior travel insurance:

Making Plans: To have a memorable and stress free holiday, it’s necessary to make plans. For senior citizens, planning is especially important because there are many more things to consider. As time passes more quickly as one gets older, it’s also helpful to plan the itinerary in detail, allowing ample time to enjoy a certain place of interest at a leisurely pace. Make flight and hotel bookings early and ask about area attractions.

Concessions and Discounts: In an effort to reach out to senior citizens, many players in the travel industry offer special concessions and discounts to draw them in. Senior citizens aged 62 years or older can take advantage of discounted airfares from most airlines. There are also restaurants and hotels that offer special concessions for senior citizens so it’s worthwhile to seek out these places.

Identity Theft and Money Issues: According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 10 million Americans fall victim to identity theft each year and 40% of these cases involve senior citizens. As a precautionary measure, senior citizens are advised to carry not more than two credit cards and only the identification cards that are the most important. If you lose your credit cards, call your bank and cancel the cards as soon as possible. Don’t carry too much cash or wear too much jewelry because you may be a target for crooks. Make special effort to protect your Social Security number and personal information.

Senior Travel Insurance: As with all travelers, senior citizens should not overlook the matter of travel insurance. If you are going to travel abroad, explore the option of acquiring travel medical insurance so you are covered in case medical assistance is needed. Medical bills in some countries can be unbelievably high so it’s best to be properly insured.

Maintaining Communication: It’s important to maintain communication with family and friends so they know where you are and how you are doing. To facilitate open communication, remember to bring your mobile phone along. In case of emergencies, inform your family members so they can arrange for assistance.

Pack Lightly: Don’t pack as many things into your luggage as possible. It’s not to go on vacation and drag around heavy suitcases that you cannot carry. The last thing you want to do is injure yourself with a heavy suitcase. Make sure to pack your medications preferably in a carry on, should your luggage get lost.

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Nowadays, the majority of airlines issue electronic airline tickets rather than traditional paper airline tickets. This has been the trend for quite some time and there are good reasons why more and more airlines are converting to e-tickets. Other than lower airfares, airlines and passengers will be delighted with electronic airline tickets because they can never be stolen or lost, unlike paper airline tickets.

Still, there are some airlines that only issue paper airline tickets and since you will rarely find a travel insurance policy to cover lost or stolen airline tickets, it is strongly advised to take every possible measure to ensure you have your airline ticket when you need it. The loss of an airline ticket can cause a lot of stress.

Usually, most airlines will not offer any form of instant replacement or compensation. Not many people know it, but paper airline tickets have monetary value and can be used by other parties, with good forged ID. In the event that you lose your airline ticket, here’s what to do:

• Do not panic. No matter how angry you feel, containing your emotions is always a positive move. Calmly try to think about how you may have lost it. Search through your belongings again to see if it was misplaced.
• Once you are sure the airline ticket is lost, contact your travel agent or the airline company, if you have purchased your ticket on your own. Ideally, you should have a photocopy of your airline ticket or the ticket number.
• Next, make a police report. If you don’t have a photocopy of the airline ticket or no record of the ticket number, provide details of your flight.
• On the day of your flight, go to the airport to try to get a replacement ticket. Unless you are very convincing, most likely, the airline will not issue a replacement ticket. If you have to get on the flight, you will have to buy a new ticket at the current rate, instead of the rate of your lost airline ticket, which can be quite a difference. If you are awarded a refund, it will be for the higher fare, minus the processing fee for the refund of the lost ticket. Then, you will be required to sign a letter of indemnity in case the lost airline ticket is used or refunded. Depending on different airline policies, refunds for lost airline tickets can take anywhere from 30 days to 1 year.

There is no guarantee that you will get a replacement or refund for your lost ticket. It will be good if there’s travel insurance to cover lost airplane tickets, but it’s unlikely. The best thing to do is to be extra careful with your paper airline tickets.

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For students who are planning to travel abroad, the allure of going to a new country filled with the promise of exciting possibilities is certainly a dizzying idea. It can, however, all go wrong in a hurry if they don’t make the necessary preparations. Here are some useful tips (including getting student travel insurance):

Travel Documents: Before you can travel abroad, sort out your travel documents: the most basic is a passport. Depending on the country of residence and the country of destination, you may need to apply for an entry visa. The criteria and duration of a visa varies make sure to do the right research to find out more.

Locating Embassies or Consulates: Whether you like it or not, sometimes, problems can occur in the country you are visiting. You may lose your passport, your money, or you may just need some help. Write down the contact information of your embassy or consulate in the country of your destination, just in case.

Responding to Emergencies: Emergencies can happen anywhere, even when you are away in paradise. Hurricanes, floods, and accidents are unavoidable when they occur. While there’s no way to adequately prepare for such calamities, adopt a positive mindset in the most negative environments. No matter what happens, try to remain as calm as possible. Make it a point to contact your embassy or consulate.

Student Travel Insurance: Students don’t like to talk about insurance because they can’t imagine anything catastrophic happening to them, especially when they are on holiday in an exotic location. When people go to a foreign land, it’s not uncommon to fall ill, even when they are students. Check to see if you are covered under your parents’ health insurance plan in the country you are visiting: If not, get your own travel insurance. As a student, you will be eligible for some cheap travel insurance. This is really a small price to pay if you require medical attention in a foreign country.

Respecting Local Laws and Customs: When you are young and willful, you tend to have a high opinion of yourself. It’s perfectly normal. Free from the laws of their own country, many students who travel abroad may think they are free to do whatever they please in a faraway land. Different countries have different laws and customs. What is permissible in one country may not be permissible in another country. Sometimes, students get into trouble by breaking local laws or offending local customs, without realizing its consequences. Before you travel to the country of your destination, it will be useful to find out about the local laws and customs so you don’t land into unnecessary trouble.

The idea of traveling abroad can be most enticing, especially for students who are just beginning to discover more about themselves and the world around them. To make the most of the trip, it’s best to practice responsibility and restraint.

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As air travel becomes more affordable, more and more people are traveling all over the world. The idea of going to a faraway land is no longer far-fetched as there are many budget airlines to make it possible. No matter the carrier, there’s always a certain amount of risk associated with air travel. As such, it’s good to take a look at some of the benefits of flight accident insurance.

The most important benefit you can get from this kind of travel insurance is piece of mind as you lean back in your seat while the plane glides through the clouds, turbulently or not. Sure, it is a proven fact that only a tiny fraction of flights around the world end up accidents, but there’s really no guarantee that your flight will not be in the unfortunate percentage, no matter how small. With flight accident insurance, you will be assured that your beneficiaries will be provided for with the amount of flight accident insurance you purchased should the airplane crash

Instead of a stand-alone flight accident policy, consider a travel insurance package plan. Cancelled flights or lost baggage are also covered by most travel insurance policies. Multi trip travel insurance usually runs for a year and can provide benefits of up to $1,000,000 whether you are flying alone or with family, or for pleasure or business purposes. Cancelled flights can be the result of very bad weather or engine troubles. If you have already bought your ticket for a cancelled flight, a flight accident insurance can certainly reimburse your loss. Also, statistics show that more than 1 million pieces of luggage are lost, delayed, or mishandled every year. Having to go through the tedious process of looking for lost luggage that may actually never be found is reason enough for you to get insurance for your flight. This will help you speed up the process of finding your luggage, if it’s lost, or compensated, if it’s not found by the airline personnel.

The best time to buy flight accident insurance is right about the time you decide to travel. Uncertainty may be an exciting part of life, but it is always a good idea to prepare for the worse, whatever that uncertainty may bring.

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Nowadays, more and more single women are opting to travel alone. There’s something exotic and exciting about the endless possibilities which may come out of a trip to a foreign land. Other than the opportunity to “find yourself” as Joplin would remind, it’s also a fantastic chance to be totally free, and perhaps discover a side which you had never known existed. As much as there are fruitful experiences to be had, single women who travel alone are also exposed to some rather unique dangers. Here are some tips, in addition to travel insurance for single women, to help you along:

Planning Ahead: Whether you are a student or a senior citizen, careful planning of your trip is most important. Now, you may want to just go for it and go on an unplanned vacation, in pursuit of the adventure of chance. While the excitement level of this approach is certainly higher, it also carries with it added risk. Imagine landing in a foreign country, especially one which is rather different from your country of origin, and having a bunch of people hawking their services from hotels to tours to car rentals- all in a language that you don’t understand. Who are you going to believe? Before you go on your tour, it’s advisable to make all the necessary bookings. Try to stay as close to the city center as possible. Plan your itinerary well and make copies of all your IDs as well as other important documents.

Bring Loads of Common Sense: Women who travel alone are susceptible to some specific types of risk. Try not to draw unnecessary attention to yourself by wearing too much expensive (even expensive-looking) jewelry and wear clothing that blends in with the locals. When a man sizes you up or offers some drink or food, firmly decline. In the event that you are totally smitten, and you smell the possibility of romance, take some time to know the person, but whenever you feel uncomfortable, withdraw. Instead of carrying a wallet, use a cute waist pouch, and always keep your valuable in separate places, even your undergarments! In countries where the culture is rather strange, learn to respect the local laws and customs.

Travel Insurance: To cover yourself in case of emergencies, get travel insurance or travel medical insurance. Be sure to inform the insurance company about the country of your destination so your policy is applicable.

Communication and Important Numbers: Always carry your mobile phone wherever you go, and make a list of all the contact information which may be useful to you, such as the phone numbers of your embassy or consulate, transportation services, local police stations, and hospitals.

Packing: Only pack things that you absolutely need. If you are going to be spending the majority of your vacation in a remote region where there’s no electricity, it makes little sense to haul your laptop along. Instead, you may need a pair of good walking shoes, and the appropriate clothing. Make a checklist to see if you have everything covered. As a rule, try to travel as light as possible.

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