Top 5 Travel Pitfalls!
By Jason Jourdan
International travel provides unique opportunities for fantastic adventures, experiencing new cultures, and creating lasting memories with family and friends. One complication is enough to flip the script on a trip and sends things spiraling. A journey abroad can be fraught with trials and tribulations, from unexpected delays and lost luggage to ill-stricken travel companions. Fear not; there are resources available to help! Travel insurance is the safety net every traveler needs in their carry-on bag.
A trip to another country carries uncertainty, and no amount of proactive planning can account for what may occur while overseas. Point Comfort Travel set about compiling a list of information from various sources to account for major travel-related mishaps and tips for coping. Here are the Point Comfort Top 5 Tourist Trials:
Trip Preparation: In fifth place, trip preparation is key to any successful travel adventure. From COVID testing to impulse booking, this era of renewed vacationing calls for a careful and measured approach. Although countries are easing travel restrictions, there are many post-pandemic requirements to consider. It’s essential to research a destination’s guidelines, triple-check for health mandates, and be aware of other safety requirements that may impact travel. Failure to plan can result in costly delays.
Crime: Trial number four is crime against tourists. According to World Population Review, crime is rising in countries popular with travelers. The destinations with the highest tourism-related crime rates are Venezuela (83.76), Papua New Guinea (80.79), and South Africa (76.86). Travelers abroad should avoid wearing expensive jewelry and leave irreplaceable valuables at home. Steer clear of scenarios vulnerable to crime and celebrate responsibly; alcohol is known to play a role in many unfortunate incidents. The volunteer network of Worldpackers has a list of safety tips that include memorizing phone numbers, packing travel locks, and informing banks or credit card companies of travel dates before departure.
Illness or Injury: Even well-planned trips can go sideways due to an unforeseen medical emergency. Suffering a broken limb or severe illness while abroad and unable to speak the language opens the door to a plethora of challenges. Most foreign countries do not recognize individual healthcare plans, and visitors without insurance can expect to pay upwards of $100,000 for out-of-pocket expenses! Even minor complications like jetlag, sunburn, or food poisoning to more severe injuries can derail a vacation. Some of the most common medical emergencies include:
– Falls & Fractures
– Motor Vehicle Accidents
– Respiratory Problems
– Gastrointestinal Issues
– Cardiovascular Complications
Lost Passport/ID: The number two travel trial is the loss of a passport or other identification document. To avoid the challenges associated with a lost ID, travelers may wish to make paper copies of documents beforehand. Don’t forget to check for expired dates, as travelers will want to have a valid passport for six months prior to their trip. U.S. citizens who lose a passport overseas should immediately contact the closest United States Embassy for assistance.
No Travel Insurance: Topping off the list at number one is forgetting to buy travel insurance! These plans are often cheaper than individuals realize, and the right insurance coverage may save an international adventurer thousands of dollars. Most travelers who fail to purchase insurance pay exorbitant out-of-pocket costs for medical care.
Common reasons to purchase travel insurance:
– Accidents/Injury
– Medical Expenses
– Lost Luggage
– Cancellation Fees
According to Forbes, good travel medical insurance may cover charges related to ambulance service, doctor fees, ER charges, X-rays, and medications.
International travel is full of excitement and possibilities, both positive and negative. An insurance policy can’t mitigate all risks associated with travel
International travel is full of excitement and possibilities, both positive and negative. An insurance policy can’t mitigate all risks associated with traveling to another country, but it can provide peace of mind and a point of comfort. Point Comfort® Travel looks out for travelers, with coverage including:
- COVID-19 Medical Expense Coverage up to the Policy Maximum
- Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
- Emergency Medical Reunion
- Return of Minor Child
- Emergency Traveler Assistance
Survive the Tourist Trials with Point Comfort Travel Insurance!
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