Travel Insurance and Extreme Sports

Extreme sports holidays have become popular with those who are looking to experience an adrenaline rush during their holidays. And with a wide variety of different sports to cater for all tastes – from rock climbing and white water rafting to hang gliding and mountain biking – as well as a wide range of terrains on which to explore, there’s something for everyone.

However, such exhilaration could turn out to be expensive unless you are prepared for any emergencies. Because of this, it is important to arrange some insurance before you travel, if not to put your mind at ease before you take the plunge or to the skies.

Indeed, travel insurance can be a very useful element to pack as part of your trip, whether you’re heading abroad to participate in extreme sports or are embarking on a backpacking excursion. Some of the most common factors that are covered by policies are:

Flight cancellations

Delayed departure or baggage

Medical expenses – these can vary depending on your country of visit

Repatriation as a result of an injury

Theft or damage to personal possessions – including any travel documentation

Legal assistance

Rental car excess and personal liability

This can help to cover you in case of emergencies, but cover can differ depending on the circumstances, so it’s important to check all details of your policy before you travel. There are several factors which will affect the cost of your policy, so it’s best to make your insurer aware of these from the start, including:

Participation in high-risk activities or sports

Pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or asthma

Travel to countries that are considered ‘high-risk’

There are many different travel insurance policies available, each offering varying levels of cover against a range of circumstances, and can be tailored to your travel plans. Backpackers and overseas workers often take out annual travel insurance for the duration of their excursions as it usually works out cheaper than purchasing separate policies for each leg of your trip.

Having an insurance policy in place before you travel can come in handy should you run into difficulties during your trip, and combined with other plans – such as the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – can help to put your mind at ease and allow you the chance to enjoy your holidays just that little bit more.