Insurance: What To Do When You’re Already Overseas

You may have forgotten to arrange travel insurance before you set off. You might need to extend it if your plans change, or insure yourself to go skiing off-piste. Make sure you’re protected against possible holiday hiccups with our guide to insurance: what to do when you’re already overseas. We’ll help you enjoy the best the world has to offer.

I was so excited, I forgot!
If you’re already halfway round the world before you remember your travel insurance, don’t panic. You can still arrange it over the phone or online through free online insurnace quotes and take a policy reference number and helpline details. Always make sure it gives you the cover you need, and remember, it won’t apply to claims arising from events before you arranged the cover. 

We’re staying longer than expected
You can adjust your online travel insurance to cover extended trips by calling your insurer, but make sure you do this before the existing policy expires. Most insurerance companies won’t let you extend a policy if you’re in the process of making a claim, and there are limits on the number of days’ cover on a policy for a single trip – even as part of an annual multi-trip policy. 

When’s the latest I can book insurance before I travel?
It’s wise to take insurance out when you book your holiday travel, to benefit from cancellation cover. But if you forget, or have to leave it till the last minute, you can usually arrange insurance at the airport, before you board the plane.

Additional cover for sports and expeditions
If you’re invited to take part in an expedition, some off-piste skiing, diving, or other specialist activities, check your policy to see what’s covered. You can usually arrange additional insurance for such activities. You’ll have to pay an extra premium, or in some cases you’ll need a specialist insurer. Also, some activity organisers can offer insurance for you, but make sure it’s sufficient.

What about driving?
If you’re hiring a car, the car hire company should provide insurance, but always check the details. If you’re going to drive a private vehicle, you can arrange insurance by contacting your normal car insurance provider, or the owner of the vehicle may be able to insure you as a named driver for a short period. It really depends on which country you’re visiting. The rules – and how safe the roads are – can differ quite a lot.

>>> Hopefully you’ll never have to claim on your overseas travel insurance, but it’s always worth having, just in case. The one time you decide to do without could be the time you need it most. If you can, make sure it’s all arranged before you set off.