So, you've planned your dream trip to Europe. You've got your tickets, your hotel is booked, but there's one thing left on your to-do list - buying travel insurance. I have to admit, I used to be in the category of people who didn't think travel insurance was necessary. Who wants to spend extra money on top of an already expensive trip? But let me tell you, health should always be your number one priority, no matter your age. Whether you're 19 or 75 years old, travel insurance is for everyone.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to purchase travel insurance, let me assure you that it is 100% worth it. In this post, I will explain why. But if you don't have time to read through all of this, I've got you covered. TravelInsurance.com is my go-to brand for travel insurance. Their website is user-friendly, they have a side-by-side comparison chart, and they offer coverage for cancellations for any reason, medical emergencies, and work-related issues.

Now, let's talk about why you need insurance for your trip to Europe. First and foremost, your regular medical insurance may not cover you while you're traveling abroad. That's where travel insurance comes in. You never know when you'll need it. While many trips go smoothly, there's always a chance that something could go wrong. For example, during a trip to Malta, my partner fell and got injured. Thanks to our travel insurance, we didn't have to pay anything for his medical treatment.

In addition to protecting your health, travel insurance can also cover things like missed flights, lost luggage, canceled accommodations, and stolen items. The coverage will depend on the type of insurance you purchase. It's not just important for trips to Europe, but also for cruising, visiting non-European destinations, and even domestic travel. Travel insurance is necessary for any type of trip and any destination.

Now, you may be wondering if your current health insurance will cover you while you're in Europe. Unfortunately, in most cases, it won't. Most U.S. health insurance policies do not cover travel to Europe or any other country. They usually only cover emergency visits out of state, except for Hawaii. So, if you're looking for coverage that includes both domestic and international travel, travel insurance is the way to go.

The coverage for European travel will depend on the insurance plan you choose. Europe is divided into the Schengen area, the non-Schengen area, and the United Kingdom. Some insurance plans may only cover the Schengen area, so if you're planning to visit multiple countries, make sure your insurance covers all the areas you'll be traveling to.

If you're a U.S. citizen with a U.S. passport, you technically don't need to apply for a Schengen visa. The visa is automatically valid for 90 days as soon as you enter the Schengen zone. However, if you're not a U.S. passport holder, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa. Keep in mind that different countries may have different visa requirements, so always double-check before you travel.

Now, let's talk about the best time to buy travel insurance. While anytime before you travel is a good time to buy it, the best time is right after you book your flight or make a deposit for your vacation. This way, you can take advantage of extended coverage perks like canceling for any reason, canceling for medical reasons, and canceling for work reasons. Buying it early also protects you from any itinerary changes that may be out of your control.

You may be wondering if travel insurance is expensive. The cost of travel insurance varies depending on the coverage you choose. The more coverage you want, the more expensive it will be. However, I've found travel insurance to be quite reasonable and cheaper than monthly health insurance payments. It's definitely worth the investment.

The amount of travel insurance you need will depend on your individual circumstances and the details of your trip. In general, you'll want to make sure you're covered for emergency evacuations and medical expenses starting at $100,000. You should also consider other expenses you've paid for, such as excursions, luggage, and cancellation coverage. TravelInsurance.com  has a helpful comparison chart that makes it easy to find the right coverage for you.

Now, you may be wondering if you can cancel your insurance for any reason. While you technically can, I wouldn't recommend it. Depending on your insurance provider, there may be a cost for canceling, or you may lose the money you've already paid. It's best to keep your travel insurance, as it can save you money in the long run. However, if you absolutely need to cancel, you can always contact your insurance provider for more information.

Finally, if you're ready to buy travel insurance, you can request a quote from many insurance providers. It's a straightforward process, and you'll be able to see the exact coverage and benefits offered. So go ahead, request a quote, and celebrate your hard work with a tasty donut run. After all, booking travel insurance can be fun!

In conclusion, travel insurance is a must-have for your trip to Europe. It protects your health, covers unexpected expenses, and provides peace of mind. Whether you choose TravelInsurance.com or another provider, make sure to compare different plans and find the coverage that's right for you. Don't leave home without travel insurance, and enjoy your trip knowing that you're prepared for anything that comes your way.

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