We all know the basics, right? Traveling is an exciting adventure to explore new places, cultures, and experiences. However, no matter how well planned, unforeseen circumstances can always arise, risking financial loss and physical harm. The solution? Travel insurance! And not only does it protect your client, but it also pays you handsomely as well. But how to impress upon a client the need?
We only need to look at the Celebrity cruise where a deceased passenger was held in a beverage cooler. Insurance would not have prevented the death but would have covered a re-patriation if needed.
For the more mundane reasons, make sure your client understands what insurance can cover.
Medical Emergencies:
One of the most significant risks a traveler faces is getting sick or injured while traveling. A medical emergency can happen at any time, and the cost of medical treatment can be exorbitant, especially in foreign countries. Travel insurance covers medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, and emergency evacuation. This coverage is essential, especially when traveling to countries with inadequate medical facilities.
Trip Cancellation:
Trip cancellations or interruptions can happen for various reasons, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or personal emergencies. In such cases, travelers may lose significant money spent on non-refundable bookings, such as airfare, hotel reservations, and tour packages. Travel insurance covers cancellations or interruptions, ensuring travelers are reimbursed for their pre-paid, non-refundable expenses. It is critical to be clear with the client specifically when this kicks in and under what circumstances. This aspect of insurance is always misunderstood or misrepresented. The fact that you broke up with your boyfriend will not allow a cancellation and refund.
Lost or Stolen Baggage:
Losing your luggage while traveling can be stressful. Travel insurance covers lost or stolen baggage, ensuring travelers are reimbursed for their losses. Travel insurance may also cover purchasing essential items such as clothes, toiletries, and medication while waiting for the lost baggage to be located. Pro Tip: Toss an Apple Air Tag in your bag and help the less-than-helpful lost baggage agent find your bag.
Travel Delays:
Flight delays or cancellations are common occurrences while traveling. Such delays can cause significant inconveniences, including missed connections, lost accommodations, and additional expenses. Travel insurance covers travel delays, including accommodation and meal expenses incurred due to flight delays, cancellations, or missed connections. Missed the cruise? Insurance will get you to the next port!
Accidents and Personal Liability:
Accidents can happen anywhere, and travelers are not immune to such risks. Travel insurance covers accidents that occur while traveling, including personal liability. This coverage is critical when traveling to countries with different laws and legal systems, where travelers may face unexpected liabilities and expenses.
Particularly with international travel, insurance should be mandatory. But issues pop up domestically as well, where it comes in handy. Clients are investing a lot of money on an experience that may be a once-in-a-lifetime trip; you must stress the importance as a travel advisor. After all, losing $20,000 for that 50th Anniversary trip canceled at the last minute is a tougher pill to swallow than the $1,000 for insurance that may go unused!
