Why Insurance is crucial when making Travel Plans

By Faith Muriungi

As we prepare for the Easter holidays, many of us are anticipating the joy of travelling upcountry to reunite with loved ones or planning to discover new destinations, whether it is Maasai Mara, Zanzibar or Dubai, we are eager to create treasured memories. 

We can all agree that travel, by its very nature, is an unpredictable adventure. While we embark on our expeditions in high spirits and with great expectations, unforeseen circumstances usually cast a shadow over even the most meticulously planned trips. 

Picture this, you are exploring the vibrant streets of downtown Dubai, only to find yourself with a sudden illness that requires medical attention. Without insurance, the burden of medical expenses can turn your dream vacation into a financial nightmare in a strange city and country.

As you plan for your next trip, it is therefore crucial to consider travel insurance on your to-do list, as this safeguard ensures your journey remains a memorable experience, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.

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In the past, travel insurance was often perceived as an exclusive benefit for the wealthy, but this viewpoint has changed over the years as more people appreciate the importance of insurance, even for local travel.

One of the key pillars of travel insurance is medical care. Accidents and unforeseen illnesses can strike during travel, and access to quality healthcare will depend on possession of a travel insurance cover that will cater for all medical expenses, leaving you as the patient, with the chance to continue enjoying your trip within the time you had set aside.

The second pillar of travel insurance is the inclusion of an evacuation plan in case of medical emergencies that require movement from remote locations without proper medical care to major cities where one can get access to specialised care.

Beyond medical coverage, travel insurance acts as a protective shield against a range of potential disruptions, which may include ticket cancellations, delays owing to sudden illness, interruptions caused by other personal emergencies, loss of baggage, or theft of personal belongings.

In Kenya, underwriters such as CIC General have risk solutions to address various travel needs, whether for business, leisure, or education. CIC’s Travel Cover caters to outbound and inbound travellers who are allowed to select the type of cover required for their unique circumstances, thereby enhancing the relevance and effectiveness of their insurance investment.

Allowing travellers to review and customise their travel insurance coverage gives travellers a chance to compare travel insurance products on offer as well as understand the limits of their coverage. It also gives travellers valuable insights from insurance experts about their travel plans and risk tolerance.

As we plan our Easter holiday getaways, let us not underestimate the significance of travel insurance. It is not merely an added expense but a valuable investment in the smooth unfolding of our festive adventures. 

By giving priority to safeguarding both the well-being and financial interests of travellers, travel insurance guarantees a stress-free holiday in case of any unforeseen challenges that life may present. 

After all, isn’t the essence of the holidays about creating cherished memories with the ones we hold dear, without worry or stress? 

The writer is the Senior Manager Underwriting at CIC General Insurance