Monday, February 22, 2010
Category:
Personal Finance Tips
Moneysupermarket.com is advising British holidaymakers to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance in place – particularly when planning to spend time on the slopes.
The UK’s leading comparison site has offered five top tips when it comes to ski insurance cover. Firstly, ensure that the policy provides a minimum of £1 million worth of medical cover in Europe and £2 million elsewhere. Secondly, investigate the provider’s definition of ‘off-piste’. Thirdly, be sure to have a minimum of £1 million worth of personal liability cover. Fourthly, enquire as to whether ski equipment is covered for damage that occurs whilst on the slopes and in transit. Finally, be sure that all winter sports equipment is allocated adequate ‘baggage and belongings cover’.
Travel expert at moneysupermarket.com, Bob Atkinson, commented: "Whether you're seeking sunshine in Spain or snow on the slopes, travel insurance is an essential item when planning any holiday and you should not leave home without it. A family holiday can be costly, especially when it involves winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, but foregoing travel cover is simply not an option and scouring the small print really is a must. On top of the usual standard criteria such as cancellation, baggage cover, and medical expenses, some policies may also include extras such as cover for sports equipment, ski pass, or going off-piste. It's crucial you speak to your provider to determine exactly where you stand before jetting off."
"Our comparison tables show that purchasing appropriate travel insurance for your holiday need not break the bank, and, with winter sporting holidays carrying big cost implications should you or a member of your family have an accident I strongly advise against travelling with out cover. Air ambulances can cost about £15 per minute, meaning a bill running into the thousands for flights back from the Alps or the Med to the United Kingdom. The cost of being air-lifted from the piste on a mountain in Switzerland to a local hospital can set you back nearly £1000. It's important to check the small print of the ‘medical expenses' wording of your policy to see if you are covered for being removed from the piste by air ambulance, and bought home to the UK.
"Families who travel more than once in a year may also find annual travel insurance the more cost effective option. In addition to your travel insurance, securing your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) before jetting off is another must. This entitles you to state-provided healthcare in the European country you are visiting - including Switzerland for skiing fanatics, but it should not be considered a replacement for travel cover."
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Homeowners who have decided not to venture away, in favour of utilising this time to carry out home improvements, could consider taking out a
secured loan to fund the planned work. One of many finance options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow borrowers to embark upon a range of required – and desired – projects in and around the home. For example, a dated property could be modernised via redecoration and the installation of new and improved kitchen and bathroom fittings. Furthermore, homeowners who are not satisfied with the amount of living space available to them could add an extension or conservatory to their property. Alternatively, or additionally, borrowers with an unused attic could convert this into a useful room such as an extra bedroom or office.
