There are certain risks associated with traveling - missing a flight, getting sick, or losing luggage. For some, these risks are greater than others. Squaremouth defines the four types of travelers that should consider purchasing a travel insurance policy.

The Traveler with a Sick Family Member
The uncertainty of a family member's health can jeopardize even the most thoroughly planned trip. While all trip cancellation policies cover a family member's unexpected illness, some policies will also cover cancellation due to their pre-existing medical conditions.

The Traveler on Medicare
In most cases, Medicare does not extend coverage outside of the U.S. This means that if a traveler on Medicare becomes ill or injured while traveling abroad, they are responsible for paying 100 percent of the medical expenses. Most travel insurance policies include an emergency medical and medical evacuation benefit that can take the place of a traveler's Medicare coverage while they're abroad.

The Traveler Going to a Dangerous or Remote Location
Travel to an especially dangerous or remote location increases a traveler's need for an escape plan. The evacuation benefits within some travel insurance policies can act as this plan. Non-medical evacuation is a benefit that provides transportation from a dangerous location to a place of safety during civil unrest or natural disaster. Likewise, medical evacuation provides transportation to an appropriate medical facility. This benefit is particularly important as many health insurance providers don't cover this transportation cost internationally.

The Self-Employed Traveler
The inconsistent work schedule of self-employed or on-call travelers can linger over their future travel plans. Some travel insurance policies include a "cancel for work reasons" benefit, which in some cases, covers self-employed travelers who need to cancel their trip if an unforeseen work obligation conflicts with their travel plans.

"Travelers often feel indifferent towards travel insurance until they are in a situation where they need it and don't have it," says Squaremouth Marketing Manager, Megan Singh. "For some travelers who are at a higher risk, not having a policy is simply not worth it."

Source: Squaremouth