7 Things to Consider Before Buying Delta Trip Insurance

'7 Things to Think Through Before Purchasing Delta Trip Insurance'

Trip Cost and Coverage: Think about the total cost of your trip. Delta's trip insurance, often underwritten by Allianz Global Assistance, usually costs between 5% and 12% of your total trip expenses. This percentage can be higher than some third-party providers. Basic plans may cover around $10,000 for trip cancellation/interruption, $10,000 for medical costs, and $50,000 for medical evacuation. More comprehensive plans offer higher limits but also higher premiums. Determine if the coverage provided aligns with the value of your trip. For a quick weekend getaway, a basic plan might suffice. Comprehensive coverage might be better for a more expensive or extended trip.

Existing Coverage: Check if you already have travel insurance through your credit card or another insurance policy. Many travel credit cards offer some level of trip protection, often including trip cancellation/interruption, lost baggage, and rental car insurance. Your homeowner's or renter's insurance might cover lost or stolen luggage even while travelling. Review your existing policies to avoid paying for duplicate coverage.

Specific Needs: Evaluate your travel concerns. Delta's standard travel insurance covers common issues like trip interruptions due to illness, severe weather, or jury duty. However, if you have specific concerns like pre-existing conditions, engaging in adventure activities, or needing "cancel for any reason" coverage, you may need additional coverage or a specialized policy. Pre-existing conditions are typically excluded unless you purchase the policy within a specific timeframe (usually within 14 days of the initial trip deposit) and the condition is stable.

Third-Party Options: Compare Delta's offering with third-party travel insurance providers. Companies like AIG Travel Guard, Allianz (purchased directly), IMG, Seven Corners, and World Nomads offer a range of plans with varying coverage and prices. A travel insurance marketplace like AARDY or InsureMyTrip can help you compare policies. You might find a cheaper policy with better coverage for your specific needs. For example, some third-party providers offer significantly higher medical coverage and evacuation limits for international travel.

Medical Coverage: Attention to medical coverage and evacuation limits, particularly for international trips. Delta's basic international travel insurance may only offer $10,000 in medical coverage and $50,000 for medical evacuation. Medical expenses abroad can be very high, and medical evacuation can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. If your health insurance doesn't provide sufficient coverage abroad, consider supplementing with a travel medical insurance plan that offers higher limits.

Claim Process and Customer Service: Research Delta's trip insurance claims process. A third-party administrator like Allianz Global Assistance often handles it. Read reviews and understand the documentation required and the typical turnaround time for claims reimbursement. Ensure you have easy access to their customer service should you need assistance during your trip.

Flexibility: Consider your travel style and how frequently you change plans. If you're prone to last-minute changes or cancellations, a "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) policy from a third-party provider might be a better investment despite the higher cost (typically 40%-60% more than standard policies). Delta's standard trip protection doesn't offer this option, and refunds for covered cancellations may be provided as Delta Vacations travel certificates rather than cash. Travel certificates usually have an expiration date (often one year) and restrictions on how they can be used.