Last week EK Agency provided you with a true scenario about traveling abroad and what can happen if you or your loved one becomes ill while overseas.  There is insurance for that!  This week’s blog is dedicated for people who travel inside the U.S. or overseas that need similar protection but also would like the benefits of trip interruption or trip cancellation insurance.  To better understand the coverages of trip insurance the following is a brief synopsis of what trip insurance covers. 

What is trip interruption and why would I need it?  Trip interruption serves as financial protection for delay of flights; interruption coverage will pay for any lost days of living accommodations due to a delayed flight.  It also covers people in the case of an accident or death.  If a family member becomes ill or passes while on a trip this coverage will pay for any unused accommodations and a return flight home if there is an extra expense.  Trip interruption also covers travelers if they have to return early from their trip for jury duty.  Trip interruption insurance also covers you as a traveler if the hotel or airline you may be using goes out of business or suffers from an unforeseen accident such as a fire.

What is trip cancellation insurance?  This type of trip insurance can reimburse the insured for trip costs forfeited or lost due to the insured, traveling companion or a family member becoming sick; or the destination has a natural disaster (i.e. earthquake, tsunami) or is no longer safe to visit due to terrorism or political threat.  Trip cancellation is designed especially for people who purchase costly vacation packages that are non-refundable.  Some examples are cruises, package trips that include airfare, lodging and pre-paid excursions while on your long-awaited trip.

Etler-Kettenacker Agency and Seven Corners offers two types of trip insurance to fit your type of travel and trip insurance needs.  Here is a brief outline of two types of trip insurance plans offered by Seven Corners and provided by EK Agency.  RoundTrip: Suited for travelers concerned with protecting the non-refundable payment of their trip.  It includes:

• RoundTrip – Seven Corner’s most popular option; or RoundTrip Choice- for maximum benefits

• Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Delay Coverage

• Emergency Evacuation, Medical, and Baggage Protection

• Underwritten by Nationwide in most states

• 24 Hour Worldwide Assistance Service

Round Trip Economy/Elite – This best serves travelers who are primarily concerned with insuring the non-refundable deposits of their trip with additional benefits.  This coverage includes:

• RoundTrip Economy- perfect plan for the budget minded traveler; or RoundTrip Elite -ideal for the discriminating traveler looking for the next level of protection

• Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Delay Coverage

• Emergency Evacuation, Medical, and Baggage Protection

• Underwritten by the United States Fire Insurance Company

• 24 Hour Worldwide Assistance Service

These are just two options out of many trip insurance plans that are available.  As we saw last week, unforeseen and difficult situations can arise while on a trip.  This week’s overview covers inconveniences such as flight delays or natural disasters such as hurricanes or tsunamis that can all but eliminate your trip.  With the peace of mind of trip insurance, you know you are financially protected if an unforeseen event takes place so you can reschedule your planned trip.  When planning your next trip please contact EK Agency so they can best match you with the type of trip insurance you need without overpaying for coverage you do not need.