It might seem boring, but insurance is an obligatory part of every student’s vacation. No one would ever open a business without getting liability insurance to protect his assets. Think of this kind of insurance as liability insurance for your backpack. It will help you avoid being financially ruined in case your backpack goes on vacation without you. Honestly speaking, peace of mind is worth a couple of cups of coffee.
First of all, pay attention to CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason) provision. Ordinary insurance policies provide cover just for certain disasters which is rather restrictive for spontaneous students. You should get an insurance package that includes medical evacuation because the prices for medical care abroad are insane. Even a helicopter ride in Switzerland will cost you more than the price of your tuition. 🚁
Do not blindly get the cheapest insurance package offered by online comparison services like Squaremouth. Always read the fine print to make sure that your insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions and/or dangerous activities. Your insurance should include the activities that you intend to perform. Sometimes riding a moped abroad is considered too dangerous to be covered by your insurance.
Always check your parents’ insurance and insurance provided by your university. Sometimes it is possible that you have insurance and you do not even know about it. Also, remember to check Visa or Mastercard insurance. They sometimes offer trip delay insurance and other bonuses.
Keep the number of your insurance policy and 24-hour hotline in your cell phone and email just in case. Administrative part of planning a holiday is an evil necessity that you cannot avoid. However, it will save you a lot of troubles when something unexpected happens abroad. Just make sure that you are prepared. Safe travels! 🌍