Why Travel Insurance is Essential for Your Bold Spirit Adventure

When planning your next Bold Spirit Travel adventure, one of the most common questions you might have is: Do I need travel insurance, and if so, which one should I get?

The answer is simple: yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip. Here’s why, along with guidance on how to choose the right policy and our recommendations for trusted providers.

Why Do You Need Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances. Here are the key reasons to consider it:

  1. Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Life happens, and plans change. Travel insurance helps cover the cost of your deposit and final trip balance if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or emergencies.

  2. Medical Emergencies: While we hope for smooth travels, accidents and illnesses can occur. Having insurance ensures you can access medical care without worrying about exorbitant costs.

  3. Lost or Delayed Luggage: Insurance covers the loss or delay of personal belongings, saving you from stress and extra expenses.

  4. Cancel for Any Reason Coverage: If your life circumstances are unpredictable, consider this option. While it’s more expensive, it allows you to cancel for almost any reason and recover up to 90% of your trip costs. Note that this type of coverage must typically be purchased within 10 days of making your initial deposit.

  5. Travel Delays: Unexpected delays can lead to extra expenses for accommodations, meals, or rebooking fees. Travel insurance can help mitigate these costs.

How Bold Spirit Travel Supports You

Once you secure your travel insurance, provide us with your policy details. This information is shared with our tour leaders, who will have access to your policy number during the trip. Why does this matter? In the rare event of an emergency where you are unable to act, our tour leaders can directly contact your insurance provider on your behalf.

Recommended Travel insurance Providers

SFinding the right travel insurance can feel overwhelming, but we’ve simplified the process by recommending a few reputable companies. These providers offer a range of options to suit your needs:

  • Squaremouth, Tin Leg, or Atlas Journeys: Known for comprehensive travel insurance options.

  • IMG Vacation Plans (Learn more here): Excellent coverage for short-term trips.

  • GlobeHopper Senior Multi-Trip: Ideal for travelers over 65, offering year-long plans through Patriot. (Explore plans)

  • Patriot Multi-Trip: A great option for frequent travelers seeking annual coverage.

  • Visitors Coverage: Offers a wide range of standard travel insurance plans.

  • Safety Wing: Monthly renewable insurance tailored for flexibility.

  • Genki Explorer Policy: Monthly renewable worldwide coverage for travelers up to age 69, with options like the Genki Resident policy for even broader international health coverage.

What to Look For in a Policy

Whether or not the travel insurance covers the cost of your flight depends on your coverage. Factors to consider when booking travel insurance include: the cost of the tour, your costs for flights, and then if you plan to come a couple of days early or stay past the end of the tour you need to add the cost of the hotel. Budget about $300 per night for that and you will be OK. 

When choosing travel insurance, consider these features:

  1. Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage: Ensure you’re protected against unforeseen disruptions.

  2. Medical and Evacuation Coverage: Look for policies with adequate medical expense and evacuation limits. Be sure to understand whether the policy covers pre-existing conditions and includes emergency evacuation to your home country if needed.

  3. Baggage Protection: Coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage.

  4. Travel Delay Compensation: Reimbursement for additional expenses due to significant delays.

  5. Adventure Activities Coverage: If you plan to engage in adventurous activities, check if the policy covers them. Many standard plans exclude high-risk activities like trekking, scuba diving, or skiing.

  6. Cancel for Any Reason (if applicable): Available within a limited timeframe after booking.

Additional Tips for Selecting Travel Insurance

  • Read the Fine Print: Always review the policy’s exclusions and limits.

  • Compare Providers: Use comparison tools like Squaremouth or InsureMyTrip to find the best policy for your needs.

  • Consider Your Destination: Some countries may have higher healthcare costs or specific risks, so tailor your coverage accordingly.

  • Evaluate Annual Plans: If you travel frequently, an annual plan might save you money.

Travel Smart

Even the best adventures can come with surprises. A good travel insurance policy helps protect your trip and your peace of mind, so you can relax and stay focused on what matters most—enjoying the journey.

Regina Winkle-Bryan