What Is Travel Insurance?

Travel is the movement of individuals between different, often remote geographical locations. Travel can be to a variety of destinations, such as within a country, to another continent or ocean, or for some exotic purpose, like visiting an exotic resort or taking a vacation to a foreign land. Travel is commonly done by automobile, bicycle, foot, plane, train, bus, boat or other mode, with or without personal luggage, and is usually one way or roundtrip. In modern times, public transportation services have begun to service most locations, while taxis, limousines, shuttles and buses provide very limited travel options.

Traveling dates and routes depend on the purpose and intended travel, as well as available transport options and security considerations. For example, when traveling around an exotic country or to another city within the same country, a round-trip ticket is more economical than a one-way trip. Round-trip travel is usually more convenient, less time consuming and safer for both the traveler and vehicle. However, travelers should consider how comfortable they would be traveling in each vehicle that they choose. Also, since all of the vehicles are typically of the same size, comfort will also be a factor in which the vehicle is chosen.

When a person travels from one location to another, they are called on their travel day. Travelers may choose to travel during any calendar month, as the seasons do not affect travel schedules as much. Generally, travel on public transportation, including buses and trains, is free in major cities. Some cab services offer package trips for those who wish to travel within a certain geographic area or who want to travel during certain times. Private transportation companies cater to people who travel for business reasons who need their own car for meetings and other travel arrangements.

Traveling by air is increasingly popular among frequent travelers and weekend warriors alike. Fly-in travellers can save money, as well as time, because airfare costs vary depending on the airline and the season. Fly-in travellers can also avoid having to get taxis, hail a cab or wait in airport terminals, which is very time-consuming. Another advantage of air travel is that there are no season restrictions, which can cause travelers to be frustrated and irritable during off peak travel periods. Most airlines now offer frequent traveller programs that include special fares for long-time customers, frequent flyer miles and discounts for repeat customers. These customer loyalty programs tend to reward customers for their good behavior.

Longer trips can take several days or even weeks, making the travel experience a longer “stay-cation.” A stay-cation refers to a single vacation or business trip, rather than a longer travel schedule. Longer road trips can take a week or two, but many travelers prefer to spend a few days in the car and hit multiple places on a bus or train rather than driving numerous miles and spending that time in traffic. If a longer road trip is desired, there is a greater likelihood that a vacationer will be willing to extend his or her vacation if they receive a substantial discount on the original price. Discounts for returning trips may also exist, especially for frequent travellers that tend to change destinations once or twice a year.

Travel insurance can help protect you from costly mistakes and unforeseen expenses that occur without advance warning. Coverage may be cancelled prior to your trip and coverage may not be able to be purchased if you are forced to cancel your trip for any reason. Because cancellation and travel insurance rates are based on the risk of the trip, you should purchase travel insurance with the best coverage for the most reliable protection. A low premium may not guarantee good coverage, but a high premium may be the most affordable option.