Belion Partners  - Residency and Investment expert in Portugal

Travel Insurance: Why It's Essential for Your Vacation

Jul 19, 2024

Summertime is that time of year when offices are half-empty and the people there are counting down to their holidays. It's the season for travelling, exploring new countries, enjoying the beach and dining outdoors while socialising with friends. 


While the relaxing vibe of holidays and summer brings joy, safety remains a top priority for everyone. Travel insurance plays a crucial role in ensuring protection against accidents and unexpected events while on vacations.


To emphasise the importance of travel insurance during vacations, consider the following key reasons to secure coverage:

Accidents Abroad

Accidents can happen in countless ways, often when least expected. When travelling abroad, these incidents require immediate medical attention. Travel insurance safeguards access to the necessary healthcare, providing peace of mind and essential support in the event of an accident.


It is important to note that if an accident happens during a car or boat trip, travel insurance may not be applicable, as these vehicles are typically required to have their own passenger insurance.

Sudden Illness

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that diseases can strike anywhere. If symptoms appear before travelling, travel insurance can cover the costs of cancelling flights, accommodations, and other pre-paid expenses related to the travel. If illness occurs during the trip, travel insurance guarantees consultations, treatments, and, if needed, hospitalisation. This ensures essential care and support, providing peace of mind for the insured person and their family.

Illness Abroad

Travel insurance provides comprehensive assistance, covering medical and pharmaceutical expenses abroad, as well as transport and repatriation for injured or sick individuals. 


In cases of prolonged hospitalisation, the insurance also covers the travel expenses of a relative to offer support. Extended stays for convalescence are also included. All of these levels of care are similar to those offered by health insurance and are sometimes included in such policies.



Travel insurance coverage applies to sudden illnesses only, excluding chronic or pre-existing conditions, pregnancy or childbirth assistance, and mental health issues.

Loss of Luggage

Arriving at a vacation destination without personal belongings is a major headache. Travel insurance can alleviate this inconvenience by covering expenses for unaccompanied luggage loss. For accompanied luggage, coverage is provided only if the luggage is stolen, and the theft must be reported.



It's important to understand that not all items in the luggage are covered by insurance. Items such as money, jewellery, electronic equipment, and other special objects are typically excluded from reimbursement. For the covered items, most insurance companies offer compensation ranging from 150 to 500 euros.

Damage to Third Parties

Travel insurance covers unintentional damage caused by the insured person, their family members, or their pets during the vacation period. However, if the damage is proven to have occurred under the influence of alcohol beyond the legal limit or narcotics, the insurance company may seek compensation for the incurred losses.


Exclusions from insurance policies include damages caused by firearms and those related to road accidents, which should be covered by specific insurance policies.



These are just a few reasons highlighting the importance of travel insurance. At Belion Partners, we collaborate with insurance intermediaries to provide tailor-made insurance solutions specific to your needs. If you want to learn more about insurance in Portugal or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We are here to guide you and present you with the best coverage options.

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