This bulletin provides information on the types of travel insurance available in Portugal and discusses whether Members require separate travel insurance.  The Bulletin indicates some of the factors to consider when choosing a policy.  In all cases AFPOP recommends that members take professional advice before selecting a travel insurance policy.

Travel cover in house insurance

Some property insurance policies, especially those covering contents, provide a degree of cover for the policy holder’s property carried during travel.  However, the limitations to the coverage and the type of coverage are often very restricted and may not include travel outside Portugal.

Travel cover on credit cards and package conditions

Some credit cards, especially Gold Cards, provide travel insurance when they are used for buying air tickets or other travel products.  Package holidays may also include travel insurance and insurance against cancellation.

Travel cover in medical insurance

Some travel insurance policies include medical coverage during short periods of travel.  They may provide options for repatriation in case of medical emergency.

Types of travel insurance and schemes available

To determine whether a Member’s existing insurance policies provide sufficient travel cover requires a close study of the fine print in each policy.  For travel outside Portugal, especially to America or Africa, cover is unlikely to be adequate.  For most resident Members, who only travel occasionally, a short-term travel insurance policy for the period of travel could be the most appropriate.  Regular travellers have the option of taking out longer-term policies.

Travel insurance may include cover for medical assistance or repatriation in case of accident or unexpected illness, loss of baggage, third party liability, and the costs of cancellation or delays.  Premiums depend on the destination (North America is usually more expensive because of the cost of medical treatment), the duration of the trip, and the limitations on the cover provided.

AFPOP has made arrangements for Members to obtain a discount on travel policies issued by Victoria Seguros through Medal and also by Primary UK through their local representative. Contact details are available from the office.