In my 20 years in the travel industry I could never understand why people were comfortable buying home, car and life insurance but considered travel insurance a "SCAM". There were times I would be pulling my hair literally when my clients were finished purchasing a $5000-$6000 honeymoon package but refused to to insure themselves for a couple of hundred dollars. They would tell me " You're trying to make more money from us". Even though that is true and the commissions are pretty high, they didn't understand that depending on the type of package that they reserved they could stand to lose everything!!
It's quite simple actually. Most clients don't understand that travel agents are simply a middle man and as such need to follow the rules and regulations put in place by the wholesaler, tour operator, airline etc. A travel agent is there to research and try to find the best deals for his clients. Most importantly, a good travel agent will also educate his clients on how everything functions and the penalties involved in case of cancellation. This way the client can make an informed decision and feel more comfortable about buying travel insurance.
There are many forms of travel insurance:
- Complete package covering expenses such as medical, cancellation etc
- Strictly medical insurance in case of an accident or illness while on vacation
- Luggage insurance
Nowadays, many gold and platinum credit cards will offer complete or partial travel insurance when the client pays with one of those types of cards. As well, group insurance plans at work will more often than not offer some sort of medical coverage.
These are the types of questions that an experienced agent will ask his clients in order to be able to make the proper suggestions.
In short, not buying travel insurance could turn out to be the biggest mistake a traveller can make before embarking on his trip!!!
Check your bags, verify your passport and BUY travel insurance 3 very important steps before you say "BON VOYAGE"