The Do's and Don'ts of Travel Insurance: 10 Tips to Follow and 10 Mistakes to Avoid

When planning your next adventure, you want everything to go smoothly so you can make the most of every moment. Good preparation includes having travel insurance coverage that suits your needs to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Because it's so easy to be influenced by hearsay and advice from uninformed people, trust the experts for decisions as important as your safety when travelling. At soNomad, we offer you reliable and proven travel insurance solutions to ensure a peaceful and hassle-free vacation.

Here are our essential recommendations and what you should avoid when it comes to travel insurance.

#1 DON'T Be Secretive About Your Health Conditions (Especially Pre-Existing Ones)

Hiding your pre-existing medical conditions is like building a house on sand—it won't last long. Not disclosing this information could result in your claim being denied if you have a health problem during your trip.

#1 DO Be Honest About Your Health Conditions

When you take out travel insurance, be upfront. Don't try to cover up anything on the medical questionnaire.

At soNomad, we are here to support you, even with pre-existing conditions! We believe that everyone can travel and be insured! While it may cost more, it is still possible. Be honest and transparent to avoid any complications when making a claim.

#2 DON'T Wait Until the Last Minute

Taking out insurance at the last minute or after your departure? Not the best idea! Ignoring this step is a bit like ignoring the strange noise your car is making—until it breaks down.

#2 DO Be Proactive, Buy as Soon as Possible

Don't procrastinate, be proactive! As soon as you make your first booking, whether a flight or accommodation, think about travel insurance. This protects you against unforeseen events from the first moment you start planning.

In addition, if you are a Snowbird, you can even save money by booking your insurance before your birthday, to guarantee a better rate.

#3 DON'T Ignore Your Deductibles

Deductibles are the portion of the costs you pay before insurance takes over the rest. Not paying attention to them could lead to unexpected expenses in case of an accident.

#3 DO Choose Deductibles That Fit Your Needs

Adjust your deductibles to find the right balance between coverage and budget. By discussing with an agent, it is possible to adjust your deductibles to save on your travel insurance.

By choosing a higher deductible, you can lower your insurance premium, but make sure this amount remains affordable as it is what you will have to pay out of pocket if needed.

#4 DON'T Fail to Report Health Changes

Don't leave your insurer in the dark. Unreported changes in your health or medication could void your coverage. Surprises are good for gifts, not for insurance.

#4 DO Inform Your Insurer of Any Changes

For any changes in medication or your health status, inform your insurer to be sure you have the necessary coverage. This precaution ensures that you are protected in all circumstances.

#5 DON'T Skimp on Coverage Duration

Taking out insurance that only covers part of your trip is like swimming in the middle of the ocean with a half-inflated life jacket—you're at risk of sinking at the slightest mishap. Many travellers make the mistake of not taking out insurance for the entire duration of their stay, thinking they are saving money or not considering the potential risks.

#5  DO Extend Coverage for Your Entire Trip

Plan like a pro. If you are leaving on a one-way ticket with no return date, take out insurance for the estimated duration of your stay abroad. Set an alert one week before the end of your coverage to extend it if necessary. If you are planning to extend your trip, do the same for your insurance to avoid any uncovered periods.

#6 DON'T Skip Reading the Fine Print

Failing to check the exclusions and restrictions of your travel insurance policy and assuming that all activities are covered without verification is a rookie mistake that even seasoned travellers can make.

#6 DO Check the Details of Your Coverage

Before you fly to your destination, take the time to plan the activities you want to do. For example, if you are planning to swim with manta rays in Bali, make sure your insurance covers this specific activity at the required depth. If needed, consider adding optional coverage to ensure you have comprehensive protection. It is essential to be proactive in order to avoid any unpleasant surprises once you are there.

#7 DON'T Rely Solely on Credit Card or Group Insurance 

Your credit card may be great for earning points, but less so for covering your adventures around the world. While group insurance and credit card insurance offer some protection, their coverage may be insufficient for all aspects of your travels.

#7 DO Consider Supplemental Travel Insurance

Even if you have insurance through your credit card or employer, check the details and consider adding supplemental travel insurance if needed. A dedicated travel insurance often offers more comprehensive protection tailored to your specific needs. Don't leave anything to chance!

#8 DON'T Forget to Budget for Insurance

Forgetting to include the cost of insurance is like planning a road trip without checking your gas gauge. You risk getting stranded in the middle of nowhere. Not exactly the ideal vacation scenario!

#8 DO Get a Quote for Your Travel Insurance

Factor these costs into your vacation budget to avoid surprises. Determine your insurance needs: simple medical coverage or comprehensive insurance including trip cancellation, interruption, and baggage protection. With soNomad, you'll be surprised at how affordable it can be!

#9 DON'T Think You Don't Need It

Thinking travel insurance is superfluous is like saying you don't need an umbrella because it never rains. No one is immune to accidents or sudden illnesses while travelling.

#9 DO Understand the Importance of Travel Insurance

Be prepared! Behind every escapade lay unforeseen events that can disrupt your plans, from expensive medical emergencies to unexpected trip cancellations. At soNomad, our agents offer you the possibility to customize your policies according to your type of travel.

#10 DON'T Overlook Annual Multi-Trip Insurance (If You Travel Frequently)

Many travellers purchase separate travel insurance policies for each trip, even if they take more than two or three trips a year.

#10 DO Choose an Annual Multi-Trip Insurance Plan

If you travel several times a year, for business or pleasure, annual multi-trip insurance is an ideal solution. This insurance covers multiple trips throughout the year, often at a lower cost than multiple individual policies.

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Travel Smartly with soNomad!

By following these tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you can set off with peace of mind, knowing you are well protected. Get a quick quote for your travel insurance needs with soNomad. We will be with you every step of your adventure with travel insurance solutions tailored to you.

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