Escape the travel insurance headache

Heading to a tropical island to get away from this nasty cold snap? Great idea. If you’re baffled by which travel insurance to buy, here are some handy tips courtesy of comparetravelinsurance.co.nz.

Baggage cover Cheaper policies will have limited cover for luggage and personal items. Make sure you check your benefit limits to ensure you get enough cover for that Louis Vuitton bag.

Valuables Check the limit for individual items, like iPads and laptops. If not enough cover is provided, you can add them, or check if they are covered by your home insurance.

Missed flights Flight delays can cause you to miss a connecting flight. Make sure you allow enough time between flights, or you may not be covered.

Excess Watch out for high excess, which could make a claim worthless if it’s a high-value one.

Medical exclusions Most travel insurance policies exclude pre-existing medical conditions. If you don’t declare them, your policy could be void.

Booze Some insurers refuse to cover any claims arising directly or indirectly from excessive alcohol intake – so watch those pina coladas!

Dependents Some policies cover dependent children up to age 25, whereas others will cover them until age 18. Make sure you check.