Travel Insurance Basics 2026: Cover That Matters
Travel insurance basics: medical, cancellation, baggage and the exclusions you must check before buying.
Insurance is boring until you need it. The trick is matching cover to your trip: destination, activities, pre-existing conditions and what you can't afford to lose.
We read the policy, not just the blurb, and call out common exclusions that catch people out.
Medical cover is usually the must-have abroad. Check limits, hospital access and evacuation.
Cancellation depends on your non-refundable costs and reason flexibility.
Pre-existing conditions, high-risk activities, alcohol-related incidents and unattended baggage often excluded.
Look for "listed activities" vs "all activities".
Keep receipts, photos and police reports if needed. Know how to make a claim and required docs.
Don't rely on credit card cover without reading its exact terms.
Buy soon after booking non-refundable trips for cancellation cover. Some benefits have time limits.
Compare total coverage, not just headline price.
Travel insurance basics: medical, cancellation, baggage and the exclusions you must check before buying.
Pragmatic guide to travel insurance claims: receipts, reports, timelines and avoiding easy denials.