How to pick the best backpacker insurance

If you’re after an exciting adventure holiday then perhaps you should consider packing your bags and heading off on a backpacking trip. With many action sports aimed at the adrenaline seeking backpacker market you sure to find anything from white water rafting to deep sea scuba diving. However with all this adventure in remote corners of the world comes added dangers and a greater need for insurance to cover you for any eventuality. This guide will give you some tips to make sure you get the best backpacker insurance regardless of your budget.

So what is the definition of the best backpacker insurance? Well, for the purposes of this guide we will consider it as providing the most cover for the least price. Backpackers are after insurance for extended periods overseas while travelling on a shoe-string. Normal travel insurance does not cater for this, nor does it cover you to participate the numerous adventure sports or trips you would want to take to make your backpacking trip a memorable one. For example, any good backpacking insurance policy should provide insurance for scuba diving to depths of 30m as standard. Additional activities can also be added on but must be agreed at the time of purchase of your policy.

You should also examine the cover your policy offers in relation to your valuables and luggage. Unfortunately backpackers are often the target of opportunistic thieves in busy areas such as bus stations, making the cover less or premium greater. Check to make sure your quote covers you adequately to replace your belongings if they are lost or stolen. You should also check the excess of your policy; this is the amount you must contribute before any payment is made. The bigger the excess, the cheaper your policy however if your excess is too big then there probably won’t be much point in submitting a claim.

Delayed and missed flights should also be covered by your insurance. You can’t predict events such as a tropical storm or social unrest that could disrupt your travel plans causing you to miss connecting flights. Make sure your insurance policy covers in the event you need to purchase replacement flights or extend your stay in a hotel near the airport while waiting for a delayed flight. It would also be helpful if you had a 24 hour helpline to call in the event you need assistance, accidents seldom happen during normal office hours. Larger insurance brokers will certainly offer you this service.

Comprehensive medical insurance is vital, most backpacker insurance policies are quite good regarding medical cover however it still worth checking. The cost of ambulance and emergency services overseas can be very expensive and the last thing you would want is to return with a big bill for your medical care. Many insurance policies will also cover you for the cost of repatriation to your home country should the need arise.