Steph Bean, 37, broke her ankle paddle boarding in Corfu, which ended up costing more than $10,000 in medical and travel expenses. Thankfully, she was covered by travel insurance, but for so many uninsured travellers abroad, the risks are monumental. As thousands of travellers plan their European summer breaks, experts warn young revellers not to forget travel insurance.
Steph Bean's dream trip abroad turned upside down
For Auckland resident Steph Bean, travel insurance was not so much an option, but a requirement for her dream stint abroad.
“As part the visa process, I had to have travel insurance. And it was good, being forced to do it.”
However, just before her return home, Steph booked a last-minute trip visit to the Greek islands. But a paddle boarding injury would lead to a $10,000 claim, and a nightmarish end to her holiday.
“It was just one of those freak accidents that you just go over and over in your head. I just hopped off into the sea, not realizing how shallow the water was. That’s when I landed on the side of my foot and broke my ankle.”
After making her way to a medical facility who confirmed the break, Steph then contacted her insurer 1Cover.
“I just said ‘what do I do’? And they were just such pros and obviously deal with that kind of thing all the time. They said, ‘send us your flight details and we'll change your flight home. And we'll bump you up to business class so that you can have your foot elevated’. Basically, we’ll sort everything out. That really put my mind at ease.”
Steph had only recently extended her travel insurance policy and says she was ‘so grateful’ to have done so.
“I have no idea what I would have done without it. I'm definitely a poster child for, ‘get your travel insurance’.”
As Steph was insured with 1Cover, her unused deposits, accommodation, and a business class upgrade for her flight home were all covered in full. In total, the cost of Steph’s claim came to $10,000.
“I think if you travel without travel insurance whatever happens to you is just your problem. You're just so vulnerable, especially overseas when you don't know the health systems and don't have any contacts or anything like that. You're a fool if you don't get it, basically.”
Steph Bean had to recieve emergency medical treatment accident
As the Northern Hemisphere summer nears, Natalie Smith, spokesperson for 1Cover, urges young travellers not to skip cover.
“The European summer months are typically some of the busiest, in terms of claims and customers needing assistance abroad. We know that young travellers in particular are eager to scrimp and save a buck wherever they can. However, the average travel insurance policy cost is miniscule compared to the huge bills you could face in a crisis abroad.”
“The European summer months are typically our busiest, in terms of claims and customers needing assistance abroad. We know that young travellers in particular are eager to scrimp and save a buck wherever they can. However, the average travel insurance policy cost is miniscule compared to the huge bills you could face in a crisis abroad.”
As far as European destinations go, Smith cautions travellers to plan for the unexpected.
“Last year the Greece bushfires and other extreme weather events in Europe caused chaos for those travelling in the region. We also know that medical costs in Europe can be significant, and in a crisis situation, there’s only so much the government can do for you. As we say time and time again, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford travel insurance.”
Steph receiving a 'red carpet welcome' on her return home to Auckland
While touring Europe in the peak summer months, it's easy to get swept away in the adventure of it all. However, tourists should always ensure they are contactible and have access to emergency services. Whether you're travelling alone or in a tour group make sure you have these provisions in place.
1.Stay Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation.
2. Use Secure Locks: Invest in quality locks for your luggage and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch to safeguard valuables.
3. Stay Informed: Research local scams and common tourist pitfalls before your trip to avoid falling victim to theft or fraud.
4. Stay Connected: Share your itinerary with trusted contacts and keep important documents and emergency contacts handy in case of unforeseen situations.
5. Pack travel Insurance: Before taking off secure comprehensive travel insurance coverage that includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost/stolen belongings. Having adequate insurance not only provides financial protection but also offers peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for any unexpected situations while traveling through Europe.
Natalie wrote this article, as Head of Marketing at 1Cover she's got over 10 years of insurance experience under her belt and can answer your trickiest travel insurance questions. Natalie has written about all types of travel insurance from tips and tricks, money saving ideas, pre-existing illnesses and more. Learn more about Natalie.
NZ
AU