Traveling the world is an exciting adventure, but as Loretta Cox’s story reminds us, it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected. Loretta, a vibrant 54-year-old from Georgia, recently faced a life-threatening situation while on a Carnival Cruise. She fell seriously ill, requiring a ventilator and emergency care in the Dominican Republic. The medical bills skyrocketed, including a $28,000 medical flight back to the U.S., leaving her family in financial distress. (Read the story here: https://www.blackenterprise.com/loretta-cox-cruise-sick-medical-bill/ )
This incident underscores the importance of securing travel insurance before embarking on any international journey. Travel insurance can cover unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more, providing peace of mind and financial protection. Here are some essential tips to consider when choosing travel insurance:
1. Understand Your Coverage Needs
- Medical Emergencies: Ensure the policy covers medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Look for coverage that reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen events.
- Baggage and Personal Belongings: Protect your belongings against loss, theft, or damage during your travels.
2. Check the Policy Details
- Pre-existing Conditions: Some policies exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, so be clear about your health status.
- Coverage Limits: Be aware of the maximum payout limits for different types of claims.
- Policy Exclusions: Read the fine print to understand what is not covered under the policy.
3. Compare Different Providers
- Research and compare policies from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a reasonable price.
- Read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow travelers to gauge the reliability of the insurance companies.
4. Consider Additional Coverage
- Adventure Activities: If you plan on engaging in adventure sports or activities, ensure your policy covers these.
- Pandemic Coverage: In the current global climate, check if the policy includes coverage for COVID-19 related incidents.
5. Keep Your Documentation Handy
- Carry a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contact numbers with you during your trip.
At Travel Divas, we prioritize your health and safety on all our trips. We always encourage our divas to travel smart and stay protected. Your well-being is paramount, and having the right travel insurance is a key part of ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Stay safe, stay protected, and keep exploring the world, Divas! Get travel insurance here.
Read more about Loretta Cox’s story here.
