1. What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for unexpected events and expenses while traveling. This can include medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. It can also offer 24/7 assistance services such as emergency medical assistance, travel document replacement, and concierge services.

2. Why is travel insurance important?

Travel insurance is important because it provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of any unexpected events or emergencies during a trip. It can help cover the costs of medical treatment, trip cancellations or interruptions, and lost luggage, which can be very expensive without insurance. Additionally, some countries require travelers to have travel insurance before entering their borders.

3. What does travel insurance cover?

The coverage provided by travel insurance can vary depending on the policy and provider, but it typically includes:

– Trip cancellation or interruption: reimburses non-refundable expenses if a trip is cancelled or interrupted due to covered reasons such as illness, injury, or severe weather.
– Emergency medical expenses: covers medical treatment and evacuation costs if someone becomes ill or injured while traveling.
– Lost or delayed baggage: compensates for lost, damaged or delayed luggage.
– Flight delays/cancellations: provides compensation for meals and accommodations if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
– Emergency assistance services: round-the-clock support for situations such as medical referrals, document replacement, translation services, etc.

4. What is not covered by travel insurance?

Each policy may have different exclusions; however, common exclusions include pre-existing conditions that were not disclosed before purchasing the policy, high-risk activities such as extreme sports or illegal activities, and losses due to drug or alcohol-related incidents.

5. How much does travel insurance cost?

The cost of travel insurance varies based on factors such as your age and destination(s), length of trip, type of coverage selected (e.g., basic vs. comprehensive), and any additional add-ons or upgrades. On average, travel insurance can cost between 4-10% of the total trip cost.

2. Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

It is highly recommended to have travel insurance for Europe, as it can provide coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or delays, lost or stolen luggage, and more. Additionally, some European countries may require proof of travel insurance in order to obtain a visa. It is important to carefully research and compare different travel insurance policies to find one that best suits your needs and covers your specific destination(s).

3. What is a Schengen visa and do I need it?

A Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows individuals to travel between 26 European countries within the Schengen Area for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia Spain and Sweden.

If you are a citizen of a country that is not part of the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA), you will generally need to apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Europe. Citizens of some non-EU countries are exempt from the visa requirement due to bilateral agreements or other special circumstances. It is important to check the specific requirements for your citizenship before planning your trip.

You can apply for a Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit first. If you plan on visiting multiple countries within the Schengen Area during your trip and do not have a primary destination country, you should apply at the embassy or consulate of the country where you will be staying longest.

4. Is travel insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa application?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for a Schengen visa application. The minimum coverage required for the insurance is 30,000 euros and it must cover medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. This requirement is in place to ensure that travelers are protected in case of any unforeseen events during their trip to the Schengen Area. Travelers must provide proof of their travel insurance when submitting their visa application.

5. How much does travel insurance for Europe cost?

The cost of travel insurance for Europe can vary depending on factors such as the length of your trip, your age, and the type of coverage you choose. On average, basic coverage can start at around $50 for a week-long trip for a 30-year-old. However, more comprehensive coverage and longer trips can cost upwards of hundreds of dollars. It’s important to compare quotes from different providers to find the best price and coverage for your needs.

6. What does travel insurance for Europe cover?

Travel insurance for Europe typically covers the following:

1. Trip cancellation or interruption: This coverage will reimburse you for any non-refundable costs of your trip in case it is cancelled or interrupted due to unexpected events such as illness, injury, job loss, or natural disasters.

2. Medical expenses: This coverage will cover the cost of medical treatment and emergency medical evacuation if you become ill or injured during your trip.

3. Baggage and personal belongings: This coverage will reimburse you for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings during your trip.

4. Travel delay: If your trip is delayed for a certain amount of time due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or airline strikes, this coverage will reimburse you for any additional expenses incurred such as hotel accommodations and meals.

5. Emergency assistance: This coverage provides 24/7 assistance in case of emergencies while travelling, including medical referrals, translation services, and legal assistance.

6. Accidental death and dismemberment: In the unfortunate event of accidental death or permanent disability during your trip, this coverage will provide a lump sum benefit to your beneficiaries.

7. Coverage for sports and activities: Some travel insurance plans may also cover hazardous sports and activities such as skiing or bungee jumping.

It is important to carefully read the details of your policy to understand what exactly is covered under your specific plan.

7. Are pre-existing conditions covered by travel insurance for Europe?

Pre-existing conditions may not be automatically covered by travel insurance for Europe. It is important to check the specific policy and coverage details before purchasing travel insurance. Some policies may offer coverage for pre-existing conditions if certain criteria are met, such as purchasing the insurance within a certain time frame after booking your trip or providing proof of stable medical condition.

8. Can I purchase travel insurance after booking my trip to Europe?

Yes, you can purchase travel insurance after booking your trip to Europe. In fact, it is recommended to purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after booking your trip to ensure coverage for any unforeseen events or emergencies that may occur before or during your trip. However, some travel insurance policies may have a deadline for when you can purchase coverage, so it’s important to check with the insurance provider beforehand.

9. What should I look for when buying travel insurance for Europe?

1. Coverage for medical expenses: Make sure the policy offers adequate coverage for any potential medical emergencies that may arise during your trip. This should include coverage for hospitalization, doctor’s consultation fees, medication, and emergency medical evacuation.

2. Repatriation coverage: Check if the policy covers the cost of repatriating your remains in case of death or serious injury while travelling in Europe.

3. Trip cancellation/interruption coverage: Look for a policy that offers reimbursement for prepaid and non-refundable expenses in case your trip gets cancelled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, natural disasters, or airline strikes.

4. Baggage and personal belongings coverage: Make sure the policy provides sufficient coverage for lost or stolen luggage and personal items. This should also include coverage for valuable items such as electronics and jewelry.

5. Travel delay coverage: In case your flight gets delayed/cancelled, look for a policy that offers reimbursement for additional costs such as hotel accommodation, meals and transportation.

6. 24/7 emergency assistance: Look for a policy that provides round-the-clock support in case of an emergency. This can be helpful if you need assistance with finding medical care, arranging transportation, or cancelling credit cards in case of theft.

7. Pre-existing conditions coverage: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, make sure the policy covers them or offers additional options to cover them at an extra cost.

8. Terrorism/political unrest coverage: If you are travelling to Europe during a time of political instability, make sure the policy includes coverage for acts of terrorism or political unrest.

9. Policy exclusions and limitations: Carefully read the fine print to understand what is not covered by the insurance policy, as well as any limits on coverage amounts or specific restrictions (e.g. age restrictions).

It’s also recommended to compare quotes from different insurance providers to get the best value for your money without compromising on coverage.

10. Do all countries in Europe require Schengen visa insurance?

Yes, all countries in Europe that are part of the Schengen Area require visitors to have valid travel insurance that meets the minimum coverage requirements in order to obtain a Schengen visa. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands,Norway ,Poland ,Portugal ,Slovakia ,Slovenia Spain ,Sweden and Switzerland.

11. How long does the coverage last with Schengen visa insurance?

Typically, the coverage with Schengen visa insurance lasts for the duration of your trip, up to a maximum of 90 days. Some insurance providers may offer longer coverage periods for an additional fee. It is important to carefully review your policy documents to understand the exact duration of coverage provided by your specific insurance plan.

12. Can I extend my Schengen visa insurance coverage if my trip gets extended?

Yes, you can extend your Schengen visa insurance coverage if your trip gets extended. However, you will need to contact your insurance provider to inquire about the process and any additional fees that may apply. It is important to note that the extension will need to be approved by the relevant authorities in the country where you are traveling before your original policy ends.

13. What happens if my Schengen visa application gets rejected after purchasing the insurance policy?

If your Schengen visa application gets rejected after purchasing the insurance policy, you may be able to cancel the policy and get a refund of the premium paid. However, this will depend on the terms and conditions of the specific insurance policy and may vary between providers. It is important to carefully review the policy before purchasing to understand any possible refund options in case of visa rejection.

14. How do I make a claim with my travel insurer while abroad in Europe?

If you need to file a claim with your travel insurer while abroad in Europe, here is what you should do:

1. Contact your insurance company: The first step is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible and let them know about your situation. Most insurers have a 24-hour helpline for assistance.

2. Collect all necessary information: Your insurance company may ask for documentation such as medical bills, police reports, or proof of purchase. Make sure you collect all the necessary information to support your claim.

3. Fill out a claim form: Your insurance company may have an online claims form that you can fill out and submit electronically. If not, they will likely provide you with a paper claim form to fill out and submit.

4. Keep copies of all documents: Make sure to keep copies of all relevant documents related to your claim, including receipts and proof of purchase.

5. Follow the time limit for filing a claim: Be aware that most travel insurance policies have a time limit for filing a claim, so make sure to file yours within the specified timeframe.

6. Wait for a response: After submitting your claim, you may need to wait for some time before receiving a response from your insurer. If there are any issues with your claim, your insurer will contact you for additional information.

7. Receive compensation: If your claim is approved, you will receive reimbursement from your insurance company according to the terms of your policy.

It’s important to review and understand the coverage provided by your travel insurance policy before traveling abroad so that you are familiar with the claims process in case of an emergency or unexpected event.

15. Will emergency medical evacuation be covered under my policy?

It depends on the specific policy you have purchased. Some travel insurance policies may include coverage for emergency medical evacuation, while others may not. It is important to carefully review your policy’s terms and conditions to understand what is covered. If you are unsure, you can also contact your insurance provider for clarification.

16.What happens if I miss my flight or lose my luggage while traveling in Europe?

If you miss your flight, you should contact the airline immediately to see if they can assist you in rebooking a new flight. Depending on the airline’s policy and the reason for missing the flight, you may be subject to additional fees or penalties.

If you lose your luggage while traveling in Europe, you should report it to the airline as soon as possible. They will ask for a detailed description of your luggage and any identifying features such as tags or stickers. The airline will then begin tracing your bag and will update you on its status. In most cases, lost luggage is returned within a few days. If your luggage is not found within a certain time frame, the airline may offer compensation for the lost items. It is recommended to keep important items such as medication and travel documents with you at all times to avoid them being lost with your checked baggage.

17.Is adventure sports coverage included in European travel insurance policies?

It varies from policy to policy, so it’s important to read the coverage details carefully. Some policies may include adventure sports as a standard coverage, while others may require an additional premium or have exclusions for certain activities. It’s best to check with the insurance provider beforehand to ensure that your preferred adventure sports are covered.

18.What documents are required when making a claim with my European travel insurer?

Each European travel insurer may have different requirements for making a claim, but some general documents that may be required include:

1. Copy of your travel insurance policy
2. Proof of payment for the policy
3. Completed claim form
4. Original receipts or invoices for any expenses incurred
5. Police report (if applicable)
6. Medical report or documentation from a doctor, hospital, or other medical provider if claiming for medical expenses
7. Boarding passes or tickets showing date and time of travel
8. Any other relevant documents related to your claim (e.g. flight cancellation notice)

It is important to carefully review your travel insurance policy and contact your insurer for specific requirements and instructions on how to make a claim.

19.Can I cancel or change my travel insurance policy once purchased?

It depends on the insurance company and their specific policy terms. Some companies may allow you to cancel or make changes to your travel insurance policy within a certain time frame after purchasing it, typically within 10-14 days. After this period, it may not be possible to make changes or cancel the policy. It is important to review the terms of your policy carefully before purchasing and contact the insurance company if you have any questions about making changes or canceling your policy.

20.How can I find the cheapest travel insurance for Schengen visa applications?

1. Compare multiple insurance providers: The easiest way to find the cheapest travel insurance for a Schengen visa is to compare quotes from different insurance companies. This will help you get an idea of the average cost and different coverage options available.

2. Use comparison websites: There are many online platforms that allow you to compare travel insurance policies from various providers. Some popular ones include InsureMyTrip, Squaremouth, and TravelInsurance.com.

3. Consider your needs: Before comparing policies, consider what you need from your travel insurance. Do you need medical coverage or trip cancellation coverage? Knowing your needs will help you narrow down your options and find a policy that suits your requirements.

4. Check the coverage limits: While looking for cheap travel insurance, keep in mind that lower-priced plans may have lower coverage limits. Make sure the policy offers sufficient coverage for medical expenses and other potential costs.

5. Look for discounts or package deals: Some insurance companies offer discounts if you purchase multiple policies, such as travel and health insurance together. It’s worth checking if any providers offer package deals that can save you money.

6. Avoid unnecessary add-ons: Many travel insurance policies come with add-ons that may not be necessary for your trip, such as rental car protection or baggage coverage, which can increase the cost of the policy. Evaluate if these add-ons are really needed before purchasing them.

7. Opt for local providers: Local travel insurance providers may offer cheaper rates compared to international ones because they have a better understanding of the risks in the region.

8. Read reviews: Before choosing an insurance provider solely based on their price, make sure to read reviews from previous customers to see their experience with filing claims and customer service.

9. Negotiate with an agent: If you’re purchasing travel insurance through an agent or broker, try negotiating for a better rate or ask about any promotions they may currently be offering.

10.Be aware of the refund policy: In case you need to cancel your trip or change your travel dates, make sure to understand the refund policy of the insurance company. Some providers may offer partial or full refunds in certain situations.