Traps for the unwary with “free” travel insurance
Business travellers relying on the free insurance that comes with their credit card should take a close look at the fine print, according to Asia Pacific-based global corporate travel specialist FCm Travel Solutions.
“There are a lot of people that rely far too heavily on the erroneous understanding that their credit card company will provide comprehensive travel insurance for them, when in fact the credit card insurance is extremely limited,” said Rob Dell, FCm Travel Solutions Commercial Director Asia Pacific.
“We stress to all of our clients that a properly researched travel insurance policy is as essential as a passport, and that corporates have a duty of care to ensure their employees travelling overseas on business are properly covered,” Mr Dell said.
Insurance cover can provide for access to accredited hospitals and management strategies for evacuation from at-risk countries or in the event of a disaster.
“While travel insurance can provide for those eventualities, not all do, so it’s important to be sure that you’re properly protected,” Mr Dell said.
“Mishaps while overseas can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars for medical bills and other expenses. In one case we’re aware of, there was a cost of $25,000 to have a person’s remains shipped home, which wasn’t covered by the deceased’s insurance,” he said.
“In the case of credit card insurance there are potential traps for the unwary, such as the insurance only covering the card holder, not another family member who might have used the card for booking their travel.
“So read the fine print very carefully before deciding to rely on your card for insurance. Or better still, get professional, independent advice on what policy best suits your needs.”
Graham Muldoon
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