While the past year prevented many from traveling, the desire to take that previously scheduled trip or long-planned vacation hasn’t subsided. With all the cheap flights and vacation deals, you may be thinking that 2021 is finally the right time take that trip of your dreams.
Dreaming is one thing. Feeling ready to book a trip is another. Here are some steps you can take right now to plan a successful international journey.
Do your research. Refer to agencies such as the Center for Disease Control and U.S. Department of State for the latest guidelines and travel advisories so you can choose your destination wisely, and better understand the requirements for re-entering the U.S.
Make sure you are covered. Purchasing a short-term international health insurance plan is one of smartest things you can do to protect both your health and your finances. You may be thinking, “Won’t the health insurance plan I already have be sufficient if I get sick or injured in another country?” The answer is that it probably does not have the right kind of protection you need when you travel outside the U.S.
There are health insurance plans that are specifically designed for international travel. Plans like GeoBlue have no deductible and cover important needs like medically necessary evacuations which can cost you thousands of dollars out of pocket and are typically not covered by your U.S. medical plan.
GeoBlue also has a flexible cancellation policy, covers medically necessary COVID-19 testing and treatment, and includes Global TeleMD™ telemedicine services for contactless access to care in case you need it.
Get familiar with your destination. A plan like GeoBlue provides a mobile app that you can download before you travel, so you can locate quality providers, view destination profiles, get the latest on any regional safety concerns, and so much more.
No matter where you plan to travel, a little preparation can go a long way to getting your international journey off on the right foot.