Why Buy Travel Insurance? by Hugh Mcinnes

Planning every detail of your upcoming trip may not prevent an unexpected mishap. The best way to combat a ruined vacation is to secure adequate foreign country travel insurance.
Travel insurance, by design, covers most situations you may face while traveling.
Situations to Consider• A hurricane forces you to evacuate your resort, hotel or cruise.• Your flight is cancelled or delayed more than 12 hours. • Your baggage is lost with your medication and you need to have an emergency prescription filled. • Your passport is stolen and you need an emergency replacement passport. • Your cruise line, airline or tour operator goes bankrupt. • You need medical attention in a foreign country.
Preparing to Buy• Always get quotes from several companies.• Ask if the plan is pre-packaged or if you can create your own.• Ask if you are covered for cancellation due illness or natural disaster. • Don't assume the company will provide you any information.
Lost LuggageTravel insurance can reimburse you for lost luggage, including the contents of the baggage. Airlines will only reimburse the contents of lost luggage if you present proof of purchase for the items listed. According to the Air Transport Users Council (AUC), airlines mishandled 42 million bags in 2007, up from 30 million in 2005. The numbers are not in the travelers favor, without travel insurance. The AUC says travelers are often inadequately compensated for lost luggage. You must report the lost luggage or personal items to local authorities and the airline within 12 hours. Medical CoverageIf there is a medical emergency, you do not have to worry about whether the doctor you see is in-network. Travel insurance provides coverage for doctor visits, emergency services and hospitalization. Travel insurance also provides services such as an emergency hotline and medical transportation. You can call an emergency number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week while overseas, and speak with a professional. Accident CoverageIf an accident were to occur in a foreign country, travel insurance will cover the cost. The insurance will cover medical expenses related to injury sustained. Travel insurance will also take care of reasonable legal liability as a result of the accident. Cancellation, Delay or InterruptionCancellation, delay or interruption of your vacation will be compensated. Circumstances for this coverage include, but are not limited to: transportation provider interruptions, natural disasters, illness and situations out of your control.