| Insuring
your nonrefundable airline tickets | | |
| Questions
to ask
Before you purchase any type of insurance, it's important to
evaluate what needs you have for coverage.
If you just plan on taking a trip to see your family
and have made no hotel or car reservations, ticket protector insurance is probably
your best bet. But, if you're planning a big family vacation that includes your
flight, rental car, hotel, cruise and more, then travel insurance might be a better
choice. Whichever one you choose, you should get a complete
copy of your plan through either the airline or insurance agency. They will list
all "covered reasons" and will give you a list of additional coverage
if you think you might need it. If you are unclear of what exactly the policy
does and does not cover, ask! Here are some questions to ask:
1. Medical emergencies -- Find out who is covered
inside and outside of your traveling party or immediate family and get a list
of all covered medical emergencies. Also, find out if those medical emergencies
cover pre-existing conditions.
2. Weather coverage
-- If you are buying insurance because of travel to hurricane-prone areas
during hurricane season, ask the insurer specifics about cancellations. Ask how
far in advance the airline and airport cancels if threatened by a hurricane and
what procedures to follow to ensure that you are not stuck in threatened areas.
3. Lost and stolen luggage -- Travel insurance
should cover lost or stolen baggage, but find out the amount. Also, find out if
your ticket protector policy covers lost or stolen luggage. Policies differ.
4. Terrorist attacks -- Find out what emergency
plans are in place and what you can do to ensure a safe return if the city you
are traveling to or in is attacked. Insurance agencies will often provide a translator
and emergency evacuations for their customers.
5.
Airline strikes/bankruptcy -- Since all U.S.-based airlines are required
by Congress to assist passengers in the event of airline strike or bankruptcy,
additional insurance is not required. But foreign airlines do not give you the
same protection. Inquire about the protections you will have under either ticket
protector or travel insurance.
6. Hotel accommodations
-- If you are delayed or stranded due to weather or other circumstances,
find out in advance about your covered hotel accommodations. With ticket protector
insurance, you are only covered for hotel accommodations if your delay is more
than six hours. One of the most important things
to research is the insurance company itself. Find out how much experience they
have in the industry and how reputable they are by logging onto www.ustravelinsurance.org.
You can also view policies on the Web site of travel insurance companies, as well
as the airline and travel Web sites where you purchase your ticket. Independent
Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York (www.iiabny.org)
also provides consumer tips and insurance options. "The
bottom line is to be proactive in your search and do your homework," says
Janet Cole, special projects coordinator for Hurley Travel Experts. | 
