Travel insurance tips

Planning your dream getaway? Whether you're jetting off to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu or keeping it local and checking out all that Queenstown has to offer, don't forget your travel insurance. 

Preparing for any unexpected mishaps that could happen during your holiday is important, and we've put together a guide to help you choose the policy that's right for you.

Start early

You can take out travel insurance at any time before your trip starts, but the sooner the better. Begin researching and comparing policies well in advance so you can find the right cover, without feeling rushed. 

Consider the cover options

There are some cheap policies available that can give you basic coverage for the price. Depending on your destination and planned activities, you might want a more comprehensive plan that has additional features like unlimited medical expenses, or if you want to travel with expensive jewellery or electronics. Think about what you need on your trip and choose the policy which has the level of cover that's right for you. 

At Tower, we offer two domestic plans and three international plans for travel insurance, allowing you the flexibility to choose based on your needs.

Declare any pre-existing medical conditions

Most budget policies don't cover pre-existing medical conditions like heart problems and sleep apnea. Be up front about any pre-existing medical conditions you have when buying your travel insurance. 

Comprehensive policies will usually provide the cover that you need - just remember to check your policy wording to make sure it suits you. That way you'll know whether or not they're covered. It's best to know the risks up front. 

If you get a policy that doesn't cover your pre-existing medical condition(s) and something happens while you're away as a result of it, you won't be able to make a claim. 

Know the limits

There will be a limit for each single item you claim for. It pays to bear that in mind if you are planning on taking an expensive camera, luxury bag, or pricey laptop. If you are travelling with these items, it's important you check you'll have adequate cover, so you're fully covered if they are lost, damaged, or stolen. If your policy's single item limit is $750 but you've specified it for $1,000, then you can claim for the full amount rather than just $750.

Check for excluded activities

Some activities are considered too risky and are not covered by many insurance companies. Keep this in mind if you're wanting to take part in activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, scuba diving, moped-driving, or skiing off-piste. 

If you're more of a cruisy holidayer, it's worth noting that cruises are often excluded. Some insurance companies don't insure cruises full-stop, or they'll ask you to buy an add-on to your policy. 

If you're travelling in a cruise, here at Tower we have a Cruise Pack add-on for our Domestic Comprehensive policy. This provides you with cover while you're away in New Zealand waters or international waters but not destined for any country other than New Zealand. Or, we also have cover under our International travel policy for cruises in Asia, Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Europe, and Worldwide. 

Stay informed 

Keep yourself updated on any travel advisories and potential risks associated with your destination. Your insurance may have specific guidelines or limitations regarding travel to certain countries or regions. 

Register yourself on the Safe Travel website before you leave so that you're kept up to date with any advisories in your destination. 

In case of an emergency

If the worst happens and you find yourself in an emergency, you'll want to call for help. Head away knowing you're able to contact your insurance provider 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Familiarise yourself with your insurance provider's emergency assistance service and save their contact details on your phone, making sure to carry it with you at all times while you're travelling. 

In a medical emergency, your insurance company should be there to answer any questions you may have and approve expenses. If your flight has been cancelled and you need to arrange a new one urgently, you'll want to be able to get in contact with someone as soon as possible. 

If you have Tower travel insurance and need help on your journey, you can call the Allianz Partners Emergency Assistance team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, no matter where you are in the world.  

Keep copies of important documents 

Make digital copies of your travel insurance policy, passport, and other important documents. Store them securely in the cloud or email them to yourself so you can access them from anywhere in case of an emergency. 

Read the policy wording

If you know exactly what your insurance covers, you'll probably find it a lot easier to relax and enjoy your trip. Take the time to carefully read through the policy details, including the exclusions and limitations. Understanding what's covered and what's not, will prevent any unpleasant surprises if you need to make a claim. 

If in doubt about anything, ask your company's customer service representatives so you can head away with total peace of mind. 

By considering these travel insurance tips you can head off on your journey with confidence, knowing you're prepared for your holiday ahead!

Related articles

Have a safe beach holiday

Get a late trip back on track