Insurance News: Snowbirds and Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know

Do you want to know how to get the travel insurance that you need? Snowbirds have unique insurance needs to be protected. Learn how to customize your insurance for your life in the sun.

Snowbirds and Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know

(NC) Travel insurance is an essential item to pack for any trip and snowbirds have unique needs. Travel insurance expert Nathan LaFayette, who is executive vice-president of Travel Guard Canada, answers the key questions snowbirds should ask before they head south.

A. You probably can. Call your travel insurance provider to find out what your options are. For example, you may need to complete a medical questionnaire or get a written note from your doctor before leaving.

A. Definitely. Snowbirds tend to be away from home for much longer than the average traveller, so they need to feel comfortable that their insurance provider is their partner. Check that you'll have access to live assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Snowbirds should be looking for travel insurance that allows them to personalize the coverage for their unique needs. For example, Travel Guard offers a golf protector coverage add-on to protect equipment as well as green fees.

A. If you need a doctor while you are out of the country, it is best to call your travel insurance provider first – leading insurance companies have the expertise, translation services and local knowledge to direct you to good doctors and hospitals to help ensure you get the best possible care.

A. Every insurance provider handles claims differently, so be sure that you understand the process before you leave on your trip. Generally, the first step is to notify your insurance provider if you believe you need to file a claim. Some providers, like Travel Guard, initiate the claim process for you and send you all necessary paperwork to file a claim when you contact them at the time of your medical emergency.

More information about snowbirds and travel insurance is available at www.savvytraveller.ca.

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