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Whether you’re a gap year student or an intrepid traveller, backpacker travel insurance is a must-have. It gives you a peace of mind that, if something happens to you, your plans or your possessions you’ll be protected and looked after.
Whether you’re off to Australia, USA, Africa, Southeast Asia, Central or South America your main needs will be the same and getting the right travel insurance policy is key. Bear in mind, the cost of the average annual travel insurance policy is £37, compared to the average medical claim of £1,300.
Backpacker insurance is a type of cover aimed at people who plan to travel for long periods of time, and often to multiple countries, as part of one trip. It offers more than standard insurance so that you’re covered for all parts of your backpacking itinerary. If you’re travelling on a budget, we’re here to help you find a great-value deal.
Backpacker insurance can help cover the cost of medical expenses, which can be very high in another country. It could also cover you for lost or stolen baggage, damage to personal items and personal liability. All of these can be inconvenient and costly, if the worst happens while you’re abroad. You should review your policy details carefully to see what you’re covered for.
All good travel insurance policies should offer similar features, regardless of whether they’re specifically aimed at backpackers. Make sure you choose a policy that covers you for:
You’ll still need to think about backpacker insurance if you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). As the rules currently stand, an EHIC will give you access to the same medical treatment as people in that European country. But having this card won’t pay to get you back home (from Spain, an air ambulance can cost £25,000) or any other costs linked to a medical emergency). It’s worth being aware that while travel insurance isn’t compulsory in Europe, it may be a requirement in other parts of the world. For example, if you’re visiting Cuba you’ll need to show proof of travel health insurance.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should always tell your insurance provider. A medical condition doesn’t mean you won’t find cover, it just means that your premium in some cases could cost you a little more. If your provider finds out that a medical emergency you had on your trip was linked to a condition you already had and didn’t declare, they might decide not to pay out. Therefore, it’s always best to be honest about your medical history.
Once you’ve worked out where you want to go and have considered the length of your backpacking holiday, there are a few important things still to think about.
Here are seven things for backpackers to bear in mind before they begin their adventures.
Start your travel insurance quote with us today. Once you’ve got your list of prices, read each policy to check what is and isn’t included.
Don’t assume the cheapest option is the best option. Instead, choose a policy that works for you based on where you’re going, what you’re doing and how long you’re travelling for. Compare travel insurance for backpackers today and get a quote in minutes.