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Perhaps one of the main myths of the visa-free regime is that you no longer need to be insured. How could it be otherwise!
A few days ago, my friends, who are avid travelers, were discussing the most important "victory" of recent days - the visa-free regime with EU countries. And although none of us experienced any particular difficulties with obtaining a visa before, we will definitely start traveling more often. Because planning trips will become more enjoyable. You won't need to prepare for them "very far in advance", you won't have to wonder: "What if they don't let you in?"
In our joyful discussion, another nuance became obvious - the anticipation of "simple" trips makes travelers more frivolous. We readily forget about the risks that accompany tourists in any case – whether with a visa or without it.
As an experienced traveler, and as an insurer with 15 years of experience, I want to share 5 life hacks: how not to turn a trip into a small financial disaster?
Many people think that due to the abolition of visas, a travel insurance policy has become unnecessary – because it was often perceived as a formal document for the embassy. Although in reality it was always purchased not for a visa, but for the traveler.
Injury, infectious disease, street food poisoning can happen during any trip, so I sincerely advise you to take this issue seriously. It is worth remembering that in Europe, even simple medicines are usually not sold without a doctor's prescription, and calling an "ambulance" can generally cost 50-60% of the entire trip budget.
It is easy to apply for a travel insurance policy - Ukrainian insurers often offer this service online. For trips to Europe, a deal worth 30 thousand euros will be enough. But its price will vary - depending on which country you are going to and what you plan to do. I do not advise overpaying for unnecessary options, but you need to choose an insurer carefully. High-quality service and a willingness not to save on the client's health - are important qualities. Look at the ratings, read reviews, compare. At a minimum, in Ukraine you can choose from at least 7-10 companies that have many years of experience and a decent reputation in travel insurance.
When traveling abroad in your own car, remember that in Europe, the driver's liability is not empty words, but a very specific amount that must be paid by the free or involuntary perpetrator of the accident. This requires a "Green Card" policy - an analogue of the Ukrainian "auto-civil insurance", which is valid in 46 countries.
It does not matter in principle which insurance company you purchase the "Green Card", since the cost of the policy is approximately the same for most insurers, and in case of problems, the Motor (Transport) Insurance Bureau of Ukraine (MTSBU) will pay for the Ukrainian driver. At the same time, I advise you to take out a policy in advance: at the insurance company's office, on its website, or through an online aggregator. You can buy a policy 100 meters from the customs, but who knows whether the insurance kiosks will be open and whether the "Green Card" forms will run out when you cross the border. If you plan to travel abroad frequently, you can immediately buy a policy for a year or six months - and not worry.
In Europe, there are high-quality roads and strict rules that most drivers follow. But troubles are not 100% excluded, and protecting your own car will not hurt anyone. Who needs it most? Drivers who are discovering new roads and are not completely confident in their experience and knowledge of the road situation "on their own". What to choose? Full CASCO, which is valid in Europe. If your current insurance contract does not include this option, then ask your insurance agent to extend the protection to the territory of Europe. If you do not have a CASCO contract at all, you can conclude it only for the duration of the trip. My «colleagues in the market» usually agree to insure a car for a period of 1 month or more.
Payment card - it is very convenient and at the same time very risky. Sometimes more risky than cash. The card can be lost, blocked, broken and money withdrawn... When traveling, the risks are always higher. Tip: inform the bank that you plan to use the card outside of Ukraine, and at the same time clarify whether it is insured, and from what exactly. If the bank does not provide insurance protection - at least 5-6 companies in Ukraine will offer this service.
Of course, it is important to take care of the place where you stay during your trip - whether it is a hotel room, a rented apartment or a couch surfer's house.
But it is even more important to take care of your own accommodation, where you will return after your vacation. Insurers are tired of talking, so I will write: friends, do not brag about your travel plans! Post beautiful photos from your vacation after you return. Refrain from sharing positive emotions on the road, because social media pages are monitored not only by friends, but also by apartment thieves. Or better yet - insure your accommodation against burglary, flooding and fire, at least for the duration of your vacation. The price of the question is usually less than the cost of lunch in any European country.
I guess these are all insurance life hacks for travelers. I hope they will be useful and help make the trip not only pleasant, but also safe.
Source: NV Business
Author: Tetyana Pinchuk (Director of Retail Sales and Network Management of ASKA Insurance Company)
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