When you are 60 years and older, travel insurance can become expensive. Unfortunately, ageism is rife in some parts of society and the travel insurance industry being no exception. As each decade passes during our lifetime, the risk matrix formulated by insurers seems to tip further and further into the favor of the insurer.
Purchasing travel insurance online from a direct insurer represents the best value for travelers over the age of sixty and beyond. In some instances, savings of around 50% can be made when compared to purchasing through a travel agent.
Seniors aged in their 60's should compare the level of cover provided for medical and hospital expenses in particular. While anyone can be susceptible to accidents or illness when traveling overseas, the reality is health problems can an inevitably do increase as we get older.
With beds in a quality hospital costing upwards of $800 a day in South East Asia, and upwards of thousands of dollars a day in the United States, medical and hospital coverage options on any travel insurance policy should remain at the forefront for anyone shopping around for travel insurance in their 60's and beyond. Fortunately, many companies offer do offer unlimited cover for emergency hospital, medical and evacuation.
Like many seniors an over 60's traveler frequently prefers to travel with a tour group or pre-book four to five star accommodation. If you fall into these categories ensure the insurance policy selected provides a high level of cover for lost deposits and/or cancellation fees in case circumstances arise that make planned travel impossible.
Investigate as to whether the insurer offers suitable compensation for alternative transport and travel delay, also cover for additional expenses in the instance that you or your companion are laid over. Does the policy include extras such as assistance after you return home suffering an injury or illness which has occurred overseas, leaving you in need of home-care?
Its wise to check claim limits or per item limits on any policy. This may not concern you if you are staying at mid-range hotels and carrying items of low value however if you have a 'top of the range' camera, video equipment or a laptop with you, it may be worth comparing the itemized cap on personal effects together with the amount of excess required to be paid in respect of each individual 'per item' claim.
Level Of Cover
3 main levels of cover are available to choose from including:
- Basic (or medical cover only)
- Comprehensive (mid range)
- Fully Comprehensive
Each level of cover is designed to suit the needs of different travelers. Always choose the cover that best meets the criteria for type of holiday and activities you have planned. Don’t purchase the cheapest and/or first policy you find as you might miss out on the vital cover you need in consideration of your age and any types of existing or pre-existing medical conditions.
Medical Tips Before You Travel
1. Have A Check Up Before You Go
In terms of most travel insurance policies, if you are admitted into hospital overseas and didn’t tell your travel insurer about a previous medical condition, you may not be covered for medical fees which can easily run into thousands of dollars. Always be honest with your insurer and have a check-up before you go to make sure you provide them with the most up to date medical data.
2. Take A Doctor's Note With You When You Travel
In many instances, you may require a medical declaration to qualify for travel insurance, so be sure to take this with you during your travels. Different countries have different regulations, and the medicine you take in your country make not be allowed (or available) where you are going. Take a medical note to make sure you don’t have any problems at customs.
3. Have Sufficient Medicine For Your Trip
Make sure you have enough medicine to cover you for the duration of the trip, plus a little extra. In some countries purchasing medicine overseas can be expensive and dangerous if you’re not sure what you’re buying. Make sure you also check with your doctor to see if you need to change any of your prescriptions due to different locations or time zones.
4. Get Vaccinated
Before travel, pay a visit to your local Travel Doctor, or GP to check which vaccinations you may require for the trip. Additionally, some travelers may be required to have a flu vaccination prior to travel overseas.