Looking to buy travel insurance for your upcoming trip, but don’t know where to start? We get it, there are lots of different coverage options out there, and understanding insurance isn’t always easy. Well, we’ve got you covered (pun very much so intended)! Here are the top six questions to ask your insurance broker before making the purchase.
1. Is my pre-existing medical condition going to be covered?
Pre-existing medical condition coverage varies from plan to plan, which is why it’s important to discuss your policy with your broker. Things to ask your broker: what is considered a pre-existing medical condition, and how does your coverage apply to your own medical situation?
Age, trip length, and stability are the three factors considered for pre-existing medical condition coverage at TuGo. Check out “Travel Insurance & Pre-existing Medical Condition Stability” for more details.
Another thing to keep in mind is that if you’re 60+, you must complete a Medical Questionnaire, and your answers determine your premium, not your coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. Check out “TuGo’s Traveller Medical Questionnaire: FAQs for Senior Travellers” for more details.
2. Are sports or other high-risk activities covered?
Some of the very best vacations involve exciting activities like skiing, bungee jumping, or hiking. They’re often a great way to let off some steam and have fun, all while embracing your new surroundings.
TuGo understands, which is why our Emergency Medical Insurance includes coverage for many of these experiences. For more adventurous travellers, we’ve also got you covered with Sports & Activities Coverage. This is good for activities like scuba diving, backcountry skiing/snowboarding, and more!
3. Is there coverage for delays and interruptions?
Airport delays and interruptions are becoming nearly inevitable these days, so it’s important to protect your trips from the unexpected. When it comes to travel insurance, there are two main types of coverage: emergency medical and non-medical. To ensure you’re covered in the event that you need to cancel your trip before your scheduled departure, or your travel plans are interrupted, you’ll need Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance, in addition to Emergency Medical Insurance for unexpected medical expenses.
With covered risks including pregnancy, job loss, or a death in the family, TuGo’s Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance can protect the financial investment you’ve made on your trip.
4. What happens if I need to make a claim?
Dealing with the claims process may seem daunting, especially after going through the unexpected. Each company has their own process so it’s important to know a bit about how they work before making your purchase.
At TuGo, we have a 4-step process to submit a claim. The important thing to remember is to hold on to your bills and receipts related to your claim. They’re essential for determining reimbursements, to either you or your medical provider, and can be used as proof of your travel dates, when opening a claim.
5. How long has the company been in business?
This question can be used to vet potential insurance providers and see how reputable they are. It can also paint a picture of their ability to provide the assistance services expected of high-quality travel insurance that may be essential if a speed bump in your plans arises. Lucky for you, TuGo has been a proudly Canadian-owned and operated business for over 60 years, offering customers comprehensive coverage and support for decades!
6. Is the rate competitive?
There is a reason this is the last of the top 6 questions. Of course, while purchasing travel insurance the cost must be considered. However, going with the cheapest option may not be the best idea, especially when it comes to travel insurance. Think of your coverage like a parachute. Do you really want to jump out of a plane with bargain gear, which could have missing holes? This is why balancing the cost and effectiveness of your plan is important—your medical and financial well-being should not be put at-risk. After all, there is a reason they say, “You get what you pay for.”
Hopefully this post has helped you feel confident that you’re asking your broker, agent or financial advisor the right questions for your specific travel needs. If you’d like to take an even deeper dive into travel insurance, check out The Complete Guide to Buying Travel Insurance. In it, you’ll find a handy cheat sheet and detailed information about TuGo’s most popular coverages.
Until next time,
Jacqueline
