Travel
Travel insurance: when is it really worth it?
Weekend trips, family holidays, or business travel: when a policy makes sense and when existing cover is enough.
Many travelers are already partially covered through credit cards, health insurance, or existing policies. Still, gaps can be expensive, especially for families or long-haul trips. The points below help you quickly decide whether and which travel insurance is worth it.
1. Single-trip or annual coverage?
Single-trip policies can be cheaper if you travel rarely. If you travel multiple times per year, annual coverage is usually better value.
Families often benefit from bundled coverage across all trips.
- From 2-3 trips/year, annual is often cheaper
- Check family discounts
- Are business trips included?
2. Cancellation: the most used module
Illness, accidents, or unexpected events are the main reasons for cancellations. Good policies cover cancellation and rebooking costs.
Clear conditions and fewer exclusions matter most.
- Which reasons are covered?
- Coverage for traveling companions?
- Follow reporting deadlines
3. Assistance and medical costs
Travel assistance organizes repatriation, interpreter services, or emergency help. Health insurance often does not cover all costs abroad.
For long-haul travel, this module is especially important.
- Repatriation is often not covered elsewhere
- Check foreign medical cost coverage
- A 24/7 hotline is crucial
4. Understand existing cover
Credit cards often include travel insurance, but only if you paid with the card. Health insurers cover abroad only to a limited extent.
A quick check prevents double coverage and gaps.
- Review credit card conditions
- Compare health-insurer coverage abroad
- Consider supplemental insurance
5. Families and special cases
Families or long stays often have special rules. For active vacations (sports, trekking), add-on coverage may be needed.
If you carry expensive equipment, check baggage limits.
- Family vs individual coverage
- Sports activities and exclusions
- Baggage and equipment limits
Quick-check before booking
Conclusion
Travel insurance is most useful if you travel regularly or face high cancellation costs. If you review coverage properly, you only pay for what actually protects you.