Backpackers face some unique situations when they travel when you compare them to the average tourist.
Just think about the difference in mind set.
The average tourist sticks to a set itinerary.
Many tourists will rarely leave the confines of their resort.
And when they do, they are likely to visit relatively safe areas, accompanied by a tour guide perhaps.
Tourists spend the majority of their travel budget prior to their arrival and spend it largely on transportation and accommodations.
Backpackers, on the other hand, enjoy getting off of the beaten path.
To backpackers, itineraries are boring.
Transportation and accommodations are purchased as needed and tight budgets are usually adhered.
The average backpacker relishes the idea of experiencing life as the locals live, sometimes at a greater risk to illness or crime.
In a nutshell, backpackers are typically willing to live life on the edge, whereas many tourists like to view life from a considerably safe distance from the edge.
Because of the unique risks to the backpacker, travel insurance policies for backpackers are tailored to cover those risks.
When compared to common travel insurance policies, backpacker insurance policies generally provide more coverage for medical expenses and less coverage for baggage loss.
Backpacker insurance policies will also typically cover adventure sport activities like bungee jumping, skiing, rock climbing, and the like.
These types of activities are not covered by common travel insurance.
Additionally, backpacker insurance policies cover much longer periods of travel than the typical policy.
When shopping for backpacker insurance, be cognizant of the cost to buy the policy.
But most importantly, make certain that you are getting the most value out of the premium you are paying.
Evaluate every policy in each of the following essential coverage areas to make sure you are getting your money's worth: Baggage and Possessions Medical Emergencies Medical Evacuation Repatriation Travel Delays Trip Cancellation Personal Liability Insurance is a very important part of travelling.
Without it, you may be stuck in a situation in which you have no way out or where you are forced upon a mountain of debt.
When you stop to think about the multitude of things that could go wrong during your travels, especially when backpacking, insurance only makes sense.
You definitely don't want to wake up on a hospital bed with a serious injury in a country you don't know the language, have no way to pay, and no way to get home.
What a nightmare! Buying backpacker insurance allows you the peace of mind to enjoy your travels.