The Importance of Travel Insurance

Travelling opens the door to adventure, cultural discovery, and relaxation. However, it also exposes you to potential health risks, particularly in areas where insect-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, or Lyme disease are prevalent. This is where travel insurance becomes an essential companion.

Why Travel Insurance Matters

While no one plans to fall ill on holiday, medical emergencies can and do happen. Insect-borne illnesses, like malaria from mosquitoes or Lyme disease from ticks, can lead to significant health complications. Treating these abroad can be costly and challenging, particularly in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure. Travel insurance ensures you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, including hospitalisation, treatments, or even medical evacuation if required.

Steps to Secure Proper Travel Insurance

1. Understand Your Destination’s Risks: Research the health risks specific to your destination. For example, tropical regions often pose a higher risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, while wooded or rural areas may expose you to ticks.
2. Choose Comprehensive Coverage: Select a policy that explicitly covers medical emergencies, including those related to insect-borne diseases. Look for features such as emergency evacuation and repatriation.
3. Declare Pre-Existing Conditions: Be transparent about any pre-existing medical conditions to ensure your coverage is valid.
4. Consider Vaccinations and Prophylactics: Some policies may require proof of vaccinations or preventative measures like anti-malarial medication for coverage.
5. Check Exclusions: Review policy details to ensure coverage for activities you plan to undertake, such as hiking or safaris.

Staying Protected

Pairing travel insurance with preventive measures—like using incognito’s insect repellent range, wearing protective clothing, and staying in screened accommodations—can keep your travels safe and stress-free. We also recommend the C.L.O.A.K. method which you can learn more about here. Be sure to check out our Travel Hub too.

Don’t let an unexpected illness derail your adventure; invest in peace of mind and enjoy your travels worry-free.