Backpackers Travel Insurance

Whether you are off to take in the culture of Europe or to check out the surf in Australia your backpacking holiday is likely to be a once in a lifetime event so make sure that you are covered by a suitable backpackers travel insurance policy should the unexpected happen.

Backpackers insurance, or long stay insurance is aimed at people travelling over an extended period of time, often visiting a number of worldwide destinations in the same trip. Backpacking insurance generally covers you for all you would expect from a standard travel insurance policy, including baggage cover and cancellation, plus many extras relevant to the adventure that you are about to embark on.

A number of different providers cater for those wishing to take a backpacking trip and many will offer policy options tailored for your exact needs. Insurers consider the length of trip you wish to take as well as your age and planned activities therefore its worthwhile thinking about what you are planning to do in advance and check your policy wording to ensure it is covered.

Things to consider when buying backpackers insurance

• Length of trip - Generally insurance policies for backpackers will cover you for travel between 3-18 months, with some limiting time to 12 months and other considering single trips as less than 90 days
• Staying longer - Should your plans change how easy would it be to extend your policy for longer?
• Studying abroad or volunteering - There are many policies that cater for students or those on a gap year wishing to work and live abroad for a specified period
• Type of travelling - Some insurers will offer you the option to customise your policy with extras such as cover for money and personal effects. This will largely depend upon the type of trip you are taking and what type of accommodation you will be staying in, such as hostels
• No go zones - Some insurers will not cover for travel in certain countries. These are generally those that are not recommended for travel by the Foreign office however always check your policy wording
• Search & Rescue - You can include cover for search and rescue should you run into problems whilst away however beware as should you travel away from the beaten track it is unlikely you would be protected
• Repatriation - In the event that you require repatriation back to the UK your insurer would cover this if it is included in your policy
• Activities and Sports - If you are looking to add to the excitement of your trip whilst away, whether it is participating in winter sports, bungee jumping or scuba diving your insurer will need to know what your plans are to ensure that your backpacking insurance policy will cover you for all of these activities
• Cheap backpackers insurance - although many providers offer competitive policies, cheap does not always mean comprehensive. Do your homework and compare policies before you leave to make sure that the cover you take is the best backpackers travel insurance policy for you.