Travel insurance is a topic that often sparks debate among travelers. Some argue that it is an unnecessary expense, while others swear by its benefits. Personally, I have been on both sides of the fence when it comes to travel insurance. However, a recent experience during a winter ski trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, made me reconsider my stance.
As I was driving my rental SUV to the airport, a snowplow kicked up a rock that cracked my windshield. This unexpected incident left me facing the dreaded rental car accident scenario. Fortunately, I had rented the car using my Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, which provided coverage for rental car windshield reimbursement. This incident made me realize the value of having some form of travel insurance in place.
Many credit cards offer various types of travel insurance coverage when you use them to pay for flights, rental cars, and other travel expenses. These benefits can include coverage for baggage delay, lost or damaged baggage, trip delay, trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical treatment, medical evacuation, travel accident insurance, and rental car insurance. With such comprehensive coverage provided by credit cards, the question arises: do you really need additional travel insurance?
The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and the level of coverage provided by your credit card. Some credit cards offer substantial coverage for various travel-related incidents, which may be sufficient for many travelers. However, there are instances where the coverage provided by your credit card may not be enough to protect you adequately.
For example, if you have paid a significant amount for a vacation and your credit card’s trip cancellation coverage is limited, you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage. Similarly, if you are embarking on an expensive trip and your credit card’s coverage is capped at a certain amount, it might be wise to supplement it with extra insurance.
American Express offers a range of travel insurance options through AmEx Assurance, which is available to all travelers and does not require an American Express card. This allows you to tailor your coverage based on your specific needs, such as medical protection, travel accident protection, baggage protection, and trip delay coverage.
When it comes to rental car insurance, it is essential to understand the specific requirements of your credit card, as coverage may vary depending on the location and type of vehicle. Some credit cards offer primary rental car insurance, while others provide secondary coverage that kicks in after your personal auto insurance.
In conclusion, the decision to purchase additional travel insurance ultimately depends on the level of coverage provided by your credit card and your individual risk tolerance. If the potential loss from a travel mishap is more than you are willing to bear, it may be worth investing in extra insurance. By combining your credit card’s insurance benefits with a customized plan, you can ensure that you are adequately protected during your travels.