Travel Insurance

[Tinkerpuss]

I am going to the USA for 2 weeks over Christmas. I have not been abroad for almost 20 years but I am now in a position to do some travelling. I have tried the comparison sites where I can get annual cover including the US for about £30.
I tried Direct Line who I have my car insured with and the quote is £72 with my discount for applying online and having another insurance policy with them.
Can anyone explain the huge difference in the quotes?

[woozer]

COuld be a huge difference in service ! Whatever else you need you must make sure that your medical cover is adequate for the US - some insurers will give you an over the phone medical questionnaire so you can tell them about your ailments (small or large) and make sure either that they are covered by your policy or .... they are not. But at least you know in advance - dont take chances. Also ask do they have help lines to sort you out over there if you lose all your money, or your passport, I know they speak English in the States but if you then travel elsewhere and have problems, will your insurer help out with an interpreter - all these things are really important in a crisis and you may not get them with an ultra cheap policy. Dont just get a quote for premium - find out how much help you will get if you really need it. I hope you have a fantastic trip.

[munchie63]

massive difference in service.
I work for the post office, and our cover, provided by Fortis, has won industry awards for the last 3 years.

I shopped around before going to the US last year, and ther are some bargains out there....but you get what you pay for.
pre-existing medical conditions, luggage, return home if ill yourself or realtive etc....what do you get for the cheap deal ?
having up to £1000 cancellation cover\'s no good if your holidays cost you £3000, for example

I\'ve had 2 claims with Fortis, both settled in a week. The first for a bag stolen during a weekend in barcelona...a £900 claim made ona policy that cost me £15. I just can\'t knock them. Great service.

Whoever you go with, make sure your covers good....especially in the USA, because if you\'re ill the first thing they\'ll want to see is your Insurance.

[michael9]

Have you tried http://theycompare.co.uk , http://gocompare.com , http://moneysupermarket.com , http://postoffice.co.uk etc, shop around you should finder a cheaper quote.