When holidays go wrong …

We are all becoming more adventurous – not only in the distances they are willing to travel, but activities delivered in time to get to our holiday destination. Lying on a beach with a good book seems so out of fashion when you can go bungee jumping, galloping on horseback through the beach, skiing or paragliding. However, with excitement comes danger, especially if you make sure you are adequately covered by travel insurance.

American Express Travel Insurance recently issued a warning, indicating that not all ski travel insurance cover trip inexperienced skiers who go off piste (even if accompanied by a guide). This has become a particular concern because of an unusually mild winter with low snowfall across Europe. Many tourists risked going off to find the best snow, resulting in twice as many accidents in the French Alps, in comparison with the previous year. If you are thinking of going skiing next year, it is essential that you review your insurance policy before you leave – you could be liable for costs if you have a huge Off-piste accident and discover their policy does not cover you. The air transport from the French Alps, for example, can cost up to £ 2,000. Simply put, you need tell your insurer if you are planning any kind of activity that might pose a greater risk of injury.

According to recent research, 15% of Britons risk going abroad without any travel insurance, not to speak of "extreme sports cover. Consider some of the costs that would incur if they fall ill or have an accident abroad, and they might think twice before playing with their health and finances. Even if you are on vacation in Europe, where its Medical treatment may be subject to a European Health Insurance Card, which may still have to cover the costs of returning home to the UK, following his accident.

Typical examples of medical expenses abroad:

* Air Ambulance (This cost U.S.) – £ 30,000 – £ 35,000
* Air Ambulance (Canary Islands) – £ 12,000 – £ 16,000
* Scheduled flight, stretcher and medical supervision (Australia) – £ 15,000 – £ 20,000
* Program of flight, sitting economy with a medical escort (Mediterranean) – £ 1,800 – £ 4,000

Source: health and wellness provider, first aid

Tales of pain, however, should not travel far to get away from, and enjoy all the activities on offer once they get there. The following guide provides some tips on how to vacation, while gaining the best travel insurance at the best price for what you want to do abroad:

1. If you are going to do something that will be considered as risky as skiing, canoeing, diving and climbing – You must tell your insurer and ensure that its policy of coverage in the event of an accident. Some activities such as paragliding or ski jumping events require special policies.
2. Do not skimp on travel insurance. If the worst happens and you are injured abroad, you will want to know you have the right and the insurance company behind to make the best of a bad situation. Make sure the policy covers everything you need and choose one with an international helpline 24-hr.
3. Beyond its potential holiday activities, Make sure your travel insurance covers other essential needs such as medical and dental treatment, to get back home, personal liability, loss departure, the flight cancellations, theft and lost luggage.
4. Shop around for the best deal. Do not assume that your travel agent is the best option for the travel insurance – look at insurance options and choose what works for you, both financially and practically.
5. Make sure you have all insurance documents journey with you. If you need to make a claim, you need all your information ready.

A final tip: once you have your insurance Travel guarantee, try to forget the potential dangers and enjoy your vacation. After all, the holidays are really meant to say that this is have fun …

About the Author

Caroline Poynton is a financial journalist who writes for Beat That Quote about loans and other personal finance topics.

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