At Inspire More Travel, we understand the importance of protecting your investment and ensuring peace of mind while traveling. However, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding travel insurance that may leave travelers unsure about whether to purchase coverage. In this blog post, we’ll debunk five common travel insurance myths and provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about protecting your travels.

Myth 1: I don’t need travel insurance; my health insurance covers me.

Reality: This misconception is thrown around quite a bit. But, it’s important to know that most health insurance providers do not fully cover illness or treatment when you’re abroad or even out of state. And what about your flights, hotels, bags, and pre-paid activities? They definitely don’t cover those.

If you fall ill before your trip and need to cancel or modify your plans, certain policy’s can protect your investment. In such instances, you can be reimbursed for your non-refundable trip expenses – a benefit your health insurance likely doesn’t provide.

To ensure you make an informed decision about purchasing travel insurance alongside your health insurance, we recommend reaching out to your health insurance provider and inquiring about the following:

• Does my plan include coverage for emergency expenses abroad, such as repatriation to the U.S. in the event of serious illness?
• Are pre-authorizations or second opinions required before emergency treatment can commence?
• Can you guarantee coverage for medical payments abroad?

Myth 2: I only need travel insurance for international trips; domestic travel is safe without it.

Reality: Whether you’re jetting off to a foreign land or exploring your own backyard, travel insurance is essential. It provides coverage for unforeseen events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or interruptions, which are pertinent considerations given the current global travel landscape.

Even as travel experts we know firsthand the importance of travel insurance and we’ve still fallen victim to this myth! During a family vacation in Hawaii, a child of one of our agents fell ill with strep throat. Despite having personal medical insurance, they were left uncovered due to being out of network. Even attempting to claim reimbursement upon returning home with proper documentation proved futile. Accidents and unexpected illnesses can occur anywhere, highlighting the crucial need for comprehensive travel insurance coverage, regardless of your destination.

Myth 3: My Credit Card Provides Sufficient Coverage

Reality: While some credit cards offer limited travel insurance benefits, they often come with significant limitations and exclusions. For example, coverage may be limited to certain types of travel expenses or may not provide adequate protection for medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Purchasing the right policy with our preferred travel insurance partner ensures comprehensive coverage for your entire vacation, including flights, accommodations, and even theme park tickets.

Myth 4: Travel Agents Are Just Trying to Sell Insurance

Reality: Contrary to popular belief, our travel agents at Inspire More Travel are not insurance salesmen. Our primary goal is to help you plan unforgettable vacations while ensuring your investment is protected. We provide you with options and guidance, directing you to knowledgeable experts who can address your specific questions and concerns about travel insurance.

Myth 5: Travel insurance covers all pre-existing medical conditions.

Reality: Travel insurance policies often have stringent guidelines concerning pre-existing medical conditions. While some policies may provide coverage for certain conditions, others might exclude them entirely. For instance, to ensure coverage for pre-existing medical conditions under specific policies, it’s crucial to select the appropriate coverage plan within 14 days of making the initial trip deposit.

It’s imperative to disclose any pre-existing conditions when purchasing travel insurance and thoroughly review the policy to comprehend the extent of coverage. Claims are subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the travel insurance policy.

Therefore, travel insurance is a valuable investment that provides essential protection for your travels. By debunking these common myths and misconceptions, we hope to empower you to make informed decisions about purchasing travel insurance for your next adventure. At Inspire More Travel, we’re here to guide you every step of the way and ensure your vacation is not only unforgettable but also worry-free.

Safe travels!