What to Look for in Travel Insurance
Although you will spend most of your time at sea during your Bahamas vacation cruise, there is a doctor on board if the need arises. While that might be enough to provide you with the peace of mind you require, there are other reasons to consider travel insurance. Answering the questions below will help you to determine if travel insurance is right for you.
What Does Your Current Insurance Cover?
During your Bahamas vacation cruise, you will be heading out of the country. This is why it is important to check with your medical insurance provider to see what kind of coverage is offered while abroad.
Are You Looking At Cruise-Only Insurance Or Full Travel Insurance?
You must understand the difference between cruise-only insurance and full travel insurance. Cruise-only insurance covers you from the start of your cruise to its end, but may not cover pre-travel, such as flying to and from the originating port. If anyone in your group is seasick, this insurance is much cheaper than paying for the required shot each day. Full travel insurance often covers a larger aspect of your travel needs beyond medical.
Make sure you ask very specific questions about the coverage you are considering. The next question will help.
What Areas Of The “Big 3” Does It Cover?
Each policy is different, so you must inquire about what coverage it offers. For example, would it cover the cost of being airlifted off the ship if needed? To make sure you know what you are paying for, inquire about the specifics of the “Bit 3” below:
- Trip cancellation, interruption, or delay.
- Medical, including airlifting and flight back home if needed.
- Concierge services—but not what you might think. For example, calling your family if you fall ill or helping you identify doctors while abroad.
Get very specific when discussing each of these 3 key areas. For example, most cruises are non-refundable—but what if a last minute emergency occurs? If you become ill directly before the cruise or if there is a death in the family, the right travel insurance allows you a refund so that you can reschedule your vacation.
Some of the most common reasons for purchasing travel insurance include cancellation of the trip, delay in trip, medical expenses, or lost or stolen baggage. As a general rule, the more coverage you want for your next Bahamas vacation cruise—the more your insurance will cost.
