From delayed flights and lost baggage to medical emergencies and more, there’s plenty that could go wrong during your trip abroad. That’s why securing travel insurance in Singapore before your trip is a must! Especially these days, with so many uncertainties and COVID-related travel changes. Not convinced? Here, Pacific Prime Singapore sets the record straight on 10 of the most common misconceptions when it comes to travel insurance, and the benefits of buying from a reputable insurer before you go.
#1 “Nothing can happen on holiday”
It’s easy to think nothing can happen on a holiday. But, the reality is, a lot can happen, even on your break from “real life.” Inconveniences like delayed flights, lost baggage, and stolen passports and cash are all too common. Injuries can still occur on your adventures, and illnesses are quite possible – especially in places with food and weather your body’s not accustomed to. Securing travel insurance in Singapore beforehand can provide peace of mind that you’ll be protected in any situation while out-of-country. You’ll be able to hop on that motorbike in Bali more confidently; you can enjoy that tuk tuk ride to the fullest!
#2 “Non-medical benefits aren’t worth it”
Most travel plans have non-medical benefits added as optional benefits. For example, compensation for a flight delay or lost baggage. These benefits might not seem like a big deal at first, but they can really come in handy if you happen to be in that situation. For instance, flight delays for more than a few hours (note that different insurers and plans have slightly different ways of defining flight delay) might mean that you can buy some essential items to make your wait more comfortable. And, in more unfortunate situations like stolen cash, you could get reimbursed, provided you have the proper documented proof such as a police report. And, think about how costly it would be to get stuck staying abroad two more weeks after a positive PCR test!
#3 “My health insurance plan will cover me”
A health insurance plan is great to have, but it won’t always cover you abroad. Many plans are restricted to a certain location or number of regions. Even if you have an international health insurance plan that provides worldwide coverage, it won’t cover sudden changes in your plan such as a delayed flight, lost baggage, a stolen passport and more. You may also discover that your health insurance plan ends midway through your trip, so it’s worth considering a travel insurance plan for the entire duration of your trip.
#4 “Public healthcare abroad is affordable”
Even if the destination you’re travelling to has an excellent public healthcare system that gives locals affordable access to care, this isn’t always extended to tourists like yourself. You might still get treated in the event of an emergency, but don’t be surprised if you’re faced with a monumental bill at the end of your stay. Dealing with these billing and financial matters during your recovery can be stressful, to say the least. Therefore, it’s a financially savvy move to pay for the travel insurance premium so the plan covers your treatment should you need it.
#5 “I can always fly home for treatment if I get sick”
It’s not always possible to fly home immediately after suffering a semi-serious illness or injury. Most countries or hospitals have restrictions against travel in these situations. So, you would likely need to receive treatment in your destination country first. While it’s possible to be treated without a travel insurance plan, the medical bills can add up quite quickly. For this reason, it’s a sensible move to purchase travel insurance in Singapore beforehand.
#6 “It’s possible to secure traveller’s insurance during my trip”
Think again if you’re planning to secure travel insurance later, or during your trip. Plans should be bought in advance to cover any costs or sudden events that occur during the trip. Although it may technically be possible to secure a plan after you land, it’s not always the practical choice. This is especially the case for short trips, as many plans have a ‘waiting period’. This is the period of time before the plan kicks in and you can start making claims.
#7 “All travel insurance plans are the same”
If you decide to secure a travel insurance plan, you should know that there’s no one-size-fits-all policy. The plan varies depending on your needs, your trip duration, and the benefits and limits you choose to add.
Additionally, the size and reputation of the insurer you go with matters, as they can determine the quality of service you get. In general, you get what you pay for. So, it’s worth going with a bigger and more reputable insurer, for better service and a smoother claims process.
#8 “No travel insurance plan will cover my pre-existing conditions”
It’s worth checking with an insurer about suitable travel insurance plans that include pre-existing conditions. These are medical conditions you have before securing the plan. You’d actually be surprised to know how many travel insurance plans do provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. That said, you’ll need to know where to look and what to ask. Of course, the terms and conditions vary based on the insurer, and premiums will also be on the high-end.
#9 “Insurers are wary of COVID-19 coverage”
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Since the start of the pandemic, more and more insurers have developed travel insurance plans with COVID-19 coverage in mind. In fact, many countries are also making this an entry requirement for foreign tourists. Even if this isn’t required by your destination country, it’s still a good idea to ensure you’re covered for COVID-19. After all, RT-PCR testing, hospital treatment and isolation costs can add up quickly while you’re away. And, these costs could be a serious, stress-inducing situation to deal with from afar.
#10 “It’s better to secure a travel insurance plan myself”
Another common misconception is that it’s better to scour the internet for the best deal on travel insurance. However, the problem is that you might be unfamiliar with insurance jargon and miss key elements of the plan. That’s why it’s wise to go through an insurer like Pacific Prime Singapore. They have highly-trained, impartial advisors to understand your needs and budget, provide a tailored comparison of suitable travel insurance plans, make sure you’re clear on the terms of your chosen policy, and assist you every step of the way.
To ensure you get the best travel insurance plan for your needs and budget, get in touch with an expert at Pacific Prime Singapore.
Written in collaboration with:
Pacific Prime Singapore
18 Cross Street, China Square Central, #14-05
6346 3781 | pacificprime.sg
Read more on living in Singapore!