If you are planning an international trip, one thing you should not forget to consider is worldwide travel insurance. People often get so caught up in the planning and excitement of travel and often forget to protect our bookings and health for while they are away. Worldwide travel insurance is a specific type of travel insurance that differs from your standard travel insurance policy.

What does worldwide travel insurance cover?

A worldwide travel insurance plan offers a higher level of coverage and takes into consideration higher costs of medical treatment which you may require if you travel to many different countries. In some countries, many people are required to have private health insurance and are not able to utilize public facilities for any reason. Worldwide travel insurance would cover the shortfall for travellers who may require this extra level of care, giving you peace of mind if anything were to happen while you are away from home.

Apart from the increased medical benefits, worldwide travel insurance also covers the same benefits you would receive on a standard travel insurance plan, including your baggage being lost, stolen or damaged; if your flight is delayed or any last minute flight or trip cancelations.

Things to consider

If you are going on a trip that includes specific activities or sports such as extreme sports, golf, skiing or snowboarding you should enquire if your worldwide travel insurance plan covers this. If you are taking a cruise this may be something you should check for coverage too. Lastly, you should always inform your insurance provider if you have a pre-existing medical condition when applying for insurance as you may not be covered if you have a related medical emergency while you are away if you have not disclosed this.

When buying worldwide travel insurance you also have the option to get a single or annual policy. If you are a seasoned traveller who takes two or more trips a year, an annual multi-trip insurance policy may save you time and money and cover you for unlimited trips over a 12-month period. On the other hand, if you are only planning one holiday and do not foresee any other trips for the year ahead, a single trip travel insurance policy is the one for you.

Although a worldwide travel insurance policy does suggest that it covers travel to all countries around the world, you should always make sure that your destinations are covered in your policy.