All packed and ready to go? Great! This vacation has certainly been a long time coming and you deserve it. Be careful rushing to the airport. You might get involved in an accident.

Speaking of accidents, according to a survey by the Chubb Group, more than 70% of Americans surveyed said their greatest concern when traveling is suffering a medical emergency...more than double the fear of being mugged (30.7%), three times the fear of being injured in a terrorist attack (23.4%). What happens if a medical emergency arises when traveling overseas?

Many people assume that while they are out of the U.S. or Canada they will be covered by their standard medical plan. However, most traditional health insurance plans are not designed for international travel. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, approximately 27 million travelers’ board U.S. airlines for overseas destinations and almost 26 million foreign travelers come to the U.S. each year. However, many are not prepared for a medical emergency abroad. Most traditional health insurance plans do not cover an unexpected illness or injury during international travel. But travelers with international medical insurance would have protection for scenarios ranging from a local ambulance trip to emergency evacuation for care at the nearest qualified medical facility. Some even offer repatriation flights out of the country where the traveler is located back to the US.

International travel medical insurance should be considered for anyone traveling or living abroad. There are many plans available that cover both individuals and groups for the period of time they spend abroad. They can be in effect even if you are stationed abroad for an extended period of time. There are policies for individuals, corporations and for those who participating in extreme sports.

Let’s go back to where we were. Got your bags packed? What about medical insurance abroad?

When you’re leaving everyone you know and everything you own behind, it’s good to have insurance with you just in case some emergencies come up. You never can be too sure of anything anyway. Spare no expense for your wellbeing. Make sure you’ve got the proper insurance with you when you travel.  

To read more articles by Tony Robinson, check out http://canoeing-now.com