It is one of the easiest things to cut from a travel budget. It is also one of the worst decisions you can make.
What Happened on a Recent US Trip
On a recent trip to the United States I got sick. A standard GP visit cost $275 USD. A simple test on top of that added another $125 USD. Then medication on top of both. A minor illness turned into a significant bill before I had even left the doctor’s office.
Fortunately I was insured and every cent was covered.
The US is One of the Most Expensive Places to Get Sick
Medical costs in the United States are among the highest in the world. What would cost a fraction of the price at home can become a financial emergency abroad, and that is before factoring in anything serious like hospitalisation or emergency flights home.
The Numbers Make the Case
Travel insurance for most trips costs a small fraction of your total travel spend. The potential bill without it can wipe out the entire trip budget and then some.
If you are travelling internationally, insurance is not optional. It is part of the cost of the trip.
Have you ever had to use travel insurance? Comment below.