It makes sense to buy annual trip travel insurance to protect trip investments. Often trips are cancelled due to an illness or a sudden death in the family. Travel is disrupted by inclement weather, airline strikes, political unrest and even travel agency bankruptcy. When this occurs, travelers can lose prepaid fees or incur additional expenses. It is also wise to purchase annual trip travel insurance to protect yourself too. Travel is postponed in cases of accidents and injuries. Receiving medical treatment abroad is expensive. Medical evacuation to the U.S. can cost upwards of $50,000, according to the U.S. Department of State. Some health plans are not accepted outside the U.S., such as Medicare and Medicaid. When the plans do provide coverage, travelers can be expected to pay high deductibles.
There are several advantages to annual trip travel insurance, including multi-trip coverage at significant savings as compared to per-trip or single trip insurance. It’s recommended for travelers who sojourn two to three times a year, but only want to buy coverage once a year. It’s aimed at the budget-wise who prefer to pay a moderate premium with limited reimbursements rather than higher premiums for full coverage. Annual travel trip insurance is conveniently available for a flat fee through travel agencies and websites. However, consumers should consider companies usually only offer three types of annual trip travel insurance: health and medical coverage only, multi-benefit plans, and full benefit plans with concierge assistance. Many annual trip travel insurance plans do not cover trip cancellation coverage. Also, annual trip travel insurance plans restrict the duration of individual trips from 30 to 180 days.
Travelers should consider personal needs before buying insurance. If age and preexisting medical conditions are a factor, talk to an insurance agent about available options. Read the details to determine if the annual trip travel insurance plan covers evacuation or medical transport costs. See if the plan includes repatriation, the cost of the return trip. Compare annual trip travel insurance plans at websites like InsureMyTrip.com, where independent travel-insurance analysts rate insurance companies. Ensure the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau and the US Insurance Association. If you do your homework prior to departure, you can travel with peace of mind.
Sources
http://www.ustia.org/about/index.htm
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html#health
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/money/travel/travel-insurance-facts-jan06
http://www.travel-wise.com/travel-insurance/