After planning for the trip of a life time, the unexpected may happen...

• Some countries have reciprocal hospital agreements for emergency treatment – such as New Zealand and Australia. However, this is not always the case and best not to be taken as a given. Covering the cost of hospital treatment abroad is extremely expensive, especially in the United States, where it can cost up to $300,000 to be evacuated.
  
  
• Purchasing travel insurance with good quality cover should be a priority - it might even save your life. Travel insurance will also help cover the cost of replacing your belongings if they are stolen and help with cancellations and delays.
  
  
• Check before purchasing the cheapest deal, you could find yourself paying a lower premium but with higher excess. You may be advised when organising your travel insurance to find the cheapest package and research your way up to a policy that fits all your travel needs. This is a great idea, as it ensures you only pay for what you require. Just make sure you check out the excess and the small print. The more comprehensive the deal, the greater the peace of mind for yourself and those you are leaving back home.
  
  
• Another way to ensure you have covered yourself sufficiently is to have those you will be leaving behind help tailor your package. Often they're more concerned about your safety and will be focused on checking the finer points.
  
  
• A number of risks are involved with travel and it's prudent to be informed and prepared. Travel insurance is a necessary component – if gives you the freedom to focus on your holiday and loved ones back home the peace of mind that should anything happen, you're covered. You've probably heard it all before ... if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.