Travel tips and advice for an unforgettable vacation
September 5, 2025
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You’ve packed your suitcase, your boarding pass is in your inbox, and that holiday feeling is already kicking in. But have you really arranged everything? Many travellers forget to take out proper travel insurance. The good news: in most cases, you can still arrange a travel insurance policy up until the day before departure, so no need to panic. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step in choosing a travel insurance that fits you and your travel plans, so you can set off with peace of mind.
Do I choose short-term or continuous travel insurance?
One of the first choices with travel insurance is: short-term or ongoing. That choice makes a big difference in the cost. We explain:
Continuous travel insurance: ideal if you go on vacation several times a year or book regular weekend getaways. You are insured all year round, no matter how often you board the plane or take the car;
Single-trip travel insurance: useful if you only travel occasionally. You have the insurance for the exact duration of your vacation.
The duration of your travel insurance has a significant impact on the overall cost. If you travel frequently, a single-trip (short-term) policy can quickly become expensive over time. In that case, an annual (continuous) travel insurance is often the smarter choice. It keeps you covered all year round, no matter how often you fly or travel abroad.
Do you only travel occasionally? Then a single-trip insurance policy is often the more cost-effective option. The general rule of thumb is: if you go on holiday for less than 14 days per year, a single-trip travel insurance is usually the best choice.
What additional coverages do I need?
Not every traveler has the same needs. Some prefer to relax on the beach, while others love skiing down the slopes or going scuba diving. That’s why insurers offer a range of additional cover options alongside the basic policy. For example:
medical expenses outside of Europe;
winter sports coverage;
water sports or diving coverage.
Additional medical coverage
An additional medical cover is especially important when travelling outside Europe, where hospital bills can quickly add up. If you become ill or have an accident and need medical care, your regular health insurance will often only cover costs up to the Dutch rate. In many countries, that is far from enough — especially in the United States, where healthcare costs are significantly higher.
A winter sports and water sports coverage
Are you going skiing, snowboarding or scuba diving? Then you often need specific winter sports or water sports coverage. Without this supplement, you are usually not (fully) insured for:
damage to your winter sports or diving equipment;
medical expenses due to an accident on the slopes or in the water;
costs of rescue or repatriation.
Always check whether your planned activities are covered by your standard travel insurance, or whether you need to add an extra cover option.
Do the check: do I have Europe or world coverage?
A common mistake is forgetting to check your travel area before going on holiday. Most insurers let you choose between European coverage and worldwide coverage. Travelling outside Europe? For example to Thailand or Brazil, you’ll need worldwide coverage.
Look beyond prices
It’s tempting to choose the cheapest travel insurance available, but the terms and conditions are just as important. In any case, make sure to pay attention to:
Maximum baggage coverage: especially if you’re travelling with expensive items such as cameras, laptops or jewellery;
Own risk: some insurance policies include an excess per claim. This can lower your premium, but it also means you’ll have to pay part of the costs yourself in case of damage or loss;
Assistance and accessibility abroad: how is emergency assistance arranged if you unexpectedly need to return home or end up in hospital? Is there a 24/7 emergency assistance centre available?
A few extra euros per month can make a world of difference if your holiday doesn’t go as planned!
Travel well prepared
In short, the perfect travel insurance doesn’t exist, but the right match does. Think about how often you travel, what you do on holiday, and what matters most to you. Once you have that clear, choosing the right insurance becomes much easier!
Do you like to travel well prepared? Then check out the articles below, filled with personal stories and practical travel tips:
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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