Travel insurance is designed to cover any financial loss while travelling abroad or within your own country.

The insurance policy can be arranged either by dedicated insurance companies or it can normally be taken at the point of booking the holiday via the travel agent or booking agent.

There are several different types of travel insurance policies that can be purchased:

• Annual insurance – This will cover you for 12 months
  
  
• Single trip insurance – Will cover for a specified time period and trip
  
  
• Multi trip insurance – This type of insurance will cover a set amount of trips
  
  
• Backpacker insurance – Travelling alone with no fixed hotel or travel plans
  
  
• Ski Insurance – High risk sports require specific insurance policies
  
  
• Snowboarding insurance – Same as ski insurance
  
  
• Student insurance - Different policy details for younger travellers

What can travel insurance cover?
Travel insurance generally covers you for specific incidents that happen whilst on your holiday. Some of the below may be covered but it is always recommended to check with your travel insurance provider:

• Cancellation of your holiday
  
  
• Delayed departure at the air port or sea port
  
  
• Loss, theft or damage to personal possessions and money
  
  
• Delayed baggage
  
  
• Medical expenses whilst abroad
  
  
• Emergency evacuation
  
  
• Overseas funeral expenses
  
  
• Accidental death, injury or disablement benefit
  
  
• Legal assistance