Iceland is a popular destination for tourists from the U.S. due to its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and adventurous activities. While travel to Iceland does not require travel insurance for U.S. tourists, there are several reasons why investing in travel insurance for your trip is a smart decision.
First and foremost, cancellations can happen for a variety of reasons, such as flight delays, personal emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances. Without trip cancellation coverage, you may not be able to recover the money spent on air tickets and hotel reservations. This can result in a significant financial loss and disrupt your travel plans.
Additionally, while not required, the U.S. State Department recommends health insurance coverage for tourists visiting Iceland. Many standard policies in the U.S., including Medicare, do not cover overseas medical expenses. Iceland’s healthcare system is top-notch, but treatment facilities may require full payment upon discharge. With average healthcare costs exceeding $6,000 per year, a single injury or accident could lead to a substantial increase in your trip expenses.
Moreover, Iceland’s adventure activities, such as glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and whale watching, carry a risk of injury. Purchasing travel insurance can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of a medical emergency. However, it’s essential to note that international travel insurance policies may not cover injuries related to extreme sports like skydiving.
When considering travel insurance for your Iceland holiday, there are five types of coverage to keep in mind:
1. Cancel for Any Reason Coverage: This type of insurance allows you more flexibility in canceling prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for reasons beyond standard policy coverage.
2. Gear Theft Protection: Comprehensive travel insurance includes gear theft insurance, which can be valuable if you have valuable items like cameras, laptops, or sporting equipment.
3. Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation: Travel medical insurance can cover emergency care and evacuation back to the U.S. if needed, avoiding out-of-pocket medical costs.
4. Rental Car Protection: Iceland requires third-party liability insurance for all rental car drivers, but additional coverage for collision damage may be necessary for certain issues not covered by standard policies.
5. Trip Cancellation Insurance: This insurance pays for pre-booked portions of your trip if travel gets canceled due to covered circumstances, such as serious accidents, illness, or acts of terrorism.
In conclusion, while travel insurance is not required for U.S. tourists visiting Iceland, it is highly recommended to protect yourself from unforeseen events that could disrupt your trip and result in financial loss. By investing in travel insurance, you can enjoy your Icelandic adventure with peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of emergencies or cancellations.