Why travel insurance could come in handy this long holiday season

Travelling has become an essential part of life for many Kenyans — whether for business, leisure, education or medical reasons.

With increased mobility comes increased risk, and that is where travel insurance plays a crucial role. Travel insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind against unexpected events that may disrupt a trip.

In Kenya, many insurers and international providers offer a wide range of policies tailored to different travel needs, making it easier for travellers to secure reliable protection before leaving the country.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that covers unforeseen incidents that may occur before or during a trip.

These incidents can include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, personal accidents, or even emergency evacuation.

Evacuation with most insurers is limited to medical evacuations only.

A standard travel insurance policy purchased in Kenya often provides global coverage, ensuring that travellers are protected, whether they are exploring Africa, visiting Europe, or studying in Asia.

Most policies are customisable, allowing travellers to choose a cover that matches the duration, destination, and purpose of their trip.

Benefits of travel insurance

Travel insurance covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation, and sometimes medical evacuation back to Kenya if necessary.

This is not a standard medical cover, but it's an extension in the travel policy which carters for your emergency medical needs during the duration one is travelling. It is capped as per the agreed limit at the point of taking the travel insurance.

Another key benefit is trip cancellation. If a traveller has to cancel or cut short their trip due to illness, bereavement or other covered reasons, the policy can reimburse up to the agreed limit.

It is of great importance to read and understand your policy document and schedule to understand which scenarios the insurer has stated qualify for reimbursement. 

Travel insurance also protects against lost or delayed baggage, which is among the most common travel frustrations. Compensation helps travellers replace essential items and reduces inconvenience.

Additionally, many policies cover flight delays, providing reimbursement for meals, accommodation, or rebooking costs depending on the length of the disruption.

For those travelling frequently, annual multi-trip plans are available, offering cost savings and convenience. Students, business travellers, and holiday-makers can all find cover options suited to their needs.

Claims process

Filing a claim is a straightforward process, though it requires proper documentation. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Notify your insurer immediately. Once an incident occurs—whether it’s a medical emergency, lost baggage, or a delayed flight—contact your insurer or their international assistance hotline. Most insurers operate 24-hour support lines, and their international partners are also on call 24 hours.
2. Gather the necessary documents. For medical claims, keep hospital receipts, medical reports, and doctors’ notes.

For lost baggage, obtain a letter from the airline indicating flight details and confirmation of lost luggage. For trip cancellations, provide cancellation notices or medical records if it's a medical issue.

3. Fill out the claim form. Your insurer will provide a claim form, either online or through their customer service team. Complete it accurately and attach all required supporting documents.
4. Submit the claim. Claims can often be submitted via email, through an insurer’s portal, or at their local office. Ensure you keep copies of everything you send.
5. Follow up. Insurers typically process claims within a specified timeline. Follow up if necessary and respond promptly to any requests.

The holidays are here with us, and it is the most travelled time of the year. Be secure, and get your travel insurance.

-The writer is an insurance expert