Travel Insurance Comparison: How to Compare Policies Like a Pro

Comparing travel insurance policies is not just about finding the cheapest option. A policy that costs €10 less but denies your €5,000 claim is not a bargain. Here is how to compare travel insurance like a professional.

The 7 Key Comparison Factors

1. Medical Coverage Limit

This is the most important number. Look for:

**Red flag:** Policies with medical limits under €100,000. A single hospital stay in the US can cost $10,000-50,000 per day.

2. Deductible (Excess)

The deductible is what you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in:

**Tip:** Choose a €0 deductible for medical claims. You don't want to hesitate seeking treatment because of cost.

3. Repatriation Coverage

Verify that repatriation is:

4. Trip Cancellation Coverage

Compare:

5. Baggage Coverage

Check:

6. Exclusions

This is where cheap policies hide costs. Read the exclusions section carefully:

7. Claims Process

Compare:

Side-by-Side Comparison Framework

Create a spreadsheet with these columns:

|---------|----------|----------|----------|

Real-World Claim Scenarios

Scenario 1: Appendicitis in Spain

**Policy A** (€1M limit, €0 deductible): Pays €14,500 ✓

**Policy B** (€100K limit, €250 deductible): Pays €14,250 ✓

**Policy C** (€30K limit, no repatriation): Pays €11,500, you pay €3,000 ⚠️

Scenario 2: Skiing Accident in Austria

**Policy A** (includes winter sports): Pays €25,500 ✓

**Policy B** (winter sports add-on): Pays €25,500 ✓

**Policy C** (excludes winter sports): Pays €0 ✗

Scenario 3: Heart Attack in the USA

**Policy A** (€1M limit, worldwide): Pays €138,000 ✓

**Policy B** (€500K limit): Pays €138,000 ✓ (barely)

**Policy C** (€30K limit): Pays €30,000, **you owe €108,000** 🚨

Travel Gear Worth Insuring

If your baggage coverage is low, consider whether these items need coverage:

Common Comparison Mistakes

Mistake 1: Comparing Only Price

Two policies at €15/day can have vastly different coverage. Always compare features first, then price.

Mistake 2: Ignoring the Fine Print

Exclusions matter more than inclusions. A policy that covers "everything" except what actually happens to you is worthless.

Mistake 3: Overinsuring

You probably don't need €100,000 in baggage coverage. Focus on medical and repatriation — these are the catastrophic costs.

Mistake 4: Underinsuring Medical

Never compromise on medical coverage to save €5-10. The risk is not worth it.

Where to Compare Travel Insurance

Comparison Sites

Direct from Insurers

Sometimes insurers offer better rates directly than through comparison sites. Check ERV, HanseMerkur, and ADAC directly.

Brokers

For complex needs (pre-existing conditions, long trips, group travel), a broker can find policies you won't find online.

Conclusion

Comparing travel insurance is about understanding your risk profile and finding the policy that covers those risks at a fair price. Focus on medical coverage and repatriation first, then add coverage for cancellation, baggage, and specific activities. Always read the exclusions — they matter more than the inclusions.

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