You know how important it is to have travel insurance before you go abroad – international visitor insurance protects you from financial worry should things go wrong when you are abroad, such as illness, injury or crime. But do you know what to check on your policy to make sure you have the correct coverage for your needs? Read on for information on the important, not-to-be-missed aspects of international visitors insurance.

What should your travel insurance plan cover? Look for an insurance policy that includes coverage for illness or injury abroad – this is an important aspect of coverage you cannot do without. Also check that you get cover for personal liability (in case you are sued for injury or damage to property), lost and stolen possessions, and trip cancellation or curtailment.

Two other important aspects that should be included in a travel insurance policy are 24-hour emergency assistance and service, usually through a dedicated helpline you can call from abroad, and cover for any activities you take part in that may not be in a standard travel insurance policy. For example, you need to make sure you are covered for winter sports if you are going skiing, or bungee jumping if you are adventurous.

Remember also that your policy should provide cover for all the time you are away. It is not worth trying to save a few dollars by knocking off some days or weeks from your policy. You don’t know when illness, injury or other accidents are going to strike. Additional inclusions you may or may not choose include cover for legal expenses, bankruptcy cover, and personal accident cover. Most insurers will extend the cover on offer to meet your needs but you will probably need to pay more on your premiums. It is worth shopping around to find the best deal for your needs.