Get Travel Insurance: Because Life Happens!

By With Traveling Grace | 08/14/2024

Ensure a Worry-Free Vacation: Protect Your Investment with the Right Travel Insurance

Planning your dream vacation? Don’t forget to safeguard it with a tailored travel insurance policy. Unlike one-size-fits-all clothing, travel insurance needs to fit your specific needs. Life is unpredictable—just ask anyone who faced unexpected events like Hurricane Ida or the global Coronavirus pandemic.

In late 2019, as I transitioned from military to civilian life, I rewarded myself with a three-month trip to the United Kingdom. But as February 2020 arrived, so did the Coronavirus, spreading rapidly across the globe. Countries began closing their borders, and I feared my return to the U.S. might be indefinitely delayed. Fortunately, I managed to return just before the U.S. shut its borders. But I often wonder—what if my flight had been scheduled just a day later? Would I have had the resources to extend my stay?

Thanks to travel insurance, my 50th Birthday trip to Hawaii was a success!

Fast forward to September 2021. With the world gradually reopening, I planned a trip to Kauai to celebrate my 50th birthday. After two prior cancellations, we were finally set to depart when Hurricane Ida hit. The storm’s unexpected severity closed the New Orleans airport, threatening to derail our plans again. Thankfully, our quick-thinking travel agent re-routed us through a nearby airport, and we made it to Kauai for an unforgettable trip.

These experiences taught me that “you never know what will happen” is more than just a saying—it’s a reality. That’s why, at With Traveling Grace, I urge every client to purchase travel protection. Life is unpredictable, but your vacation investment doesn’t have to be at risk.

So, which travel insurance policy is right for you? Options abound. Most travel suppliers and cruise lines offer travel protection as an add-on to your vacation package. You can also opt for third-party insurance from reputable providers like Allianz Global, Generali Global Assistance, and TripMate. If you’re a frequent traveler, consider an annual policy for comprehensive coverage. The following type of plans are available for purchase:

Single Trip Plan
Multi-Trip/Annual Plan
Rental Car Plan
Group Plan

Cruise enthusiasts, take note: booking the travel protection plan offered by your cruise line can be a lifesaver. Most cruise lines allow you to add this coverage up until your final payment is due. In addition to trip cancellation, these policies often include crucial medical and emergency transportation coverage. Imagine being denied medical evacuation because you couldn’t afford it or being unable to disembark without paying for onboard emergency treatment. Keep in mind, your standard PPO or HMO insurance may not cover medical expenses incurred during a cruise.

When selecting a travel insurance policy, it’s crucial to think about the coverage you’ll need. Some policies offered through travel suppliers may only provide a future travel credit instead of a cash refund. If that’s the case, be sure to read the fine print, especially regarding the expiration date of your travel credit.

Just in case — What’s covered in your policy? Make sure you select the right fit.

Also, make sure you have sufficient coverage. Some policies only cover the amount spent on your vacation package, while others extend beyond that, covering additional expenses like excursions, tours, and even your new vacation wardrobe. This extra coverage can make a significant difference if you’ve invested in more than just your flights and accommodations.

At With Traveling Grace, we understand the value of every dollar you spend on your vacation. That’s why we offer tailored travel insurance services to ensure your vacation is protected—no matter what life throws your way.