Deciding on your travel insurance policy might feel like a difficult process, with most travellers finding it to be one additional stress which they would rather go without. On the other hand, if you want to be covered in the event that something unexpected happens on your holiday, it’s highly critical that you sort out any insurance before you set off on your travels. If you’re finding the process too complicated, it could be greatly simplified providing you merely remember some key dos and don’ts of travel insurance.

DO ensure that you maintain full comprehension of the differences between Single Trip and Annual Cover. Every traveller has different needs from their insurance, so it’s best to be sure you understand what the key difference is here. Single Trip cover is usually worked out on a weekly basis, and is aimed at travellers who are having a one off holiday and want to save. Annual cover, on the other hand, insures you for all your travel throughout one year and has a fixed annual rate.

DON’T judge the whole policy on the extras it provides. If you do select a policy, lured in by a gimmicky add-on and without checking the main features of the cover, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. Extras are designed to be just that: extras. If, of course, you’re stuck between two equally promising policies and don’t know which to go for, then the extras could tip the scales. Some companies will have more on offer than others, and its likely that therell be one that has something that seems more appropriate for your own situation.

DO your research carefully. It may be best to ask friends and family who provides their travel insurance, though remember that insurance is specific to the buyer so something that is good for your friend may not be as suitable for you. Don’t limit yourself in your research – insurance is not only provided by insurance companies any more, you can also buy it from supermarkets and the post office, often for cheaper rates. No matter what else you do, the most important thing is that you do enough research to feel certain that you’ve chosen the best possible policy for you.

DON’T forget to read the small print – you need to be sure that you know exactly what you’re covered for so that, should anything go awry with your trip, you don’t have to worry too much about getting it sorted. Always read your contract over before signing to be sure you’re covered for everything you need.

DO make sure you get the right kind of cover for you. These days, travel insurance policies vary depending on the type of traveller you are, so if you’re just going on a family beach holiday then don’t shell out for the extra cover provided by a winter sports policy! Search around and find the right kind of policy that is tailored to your travelling needs.

DON’T underestimate the importance of travel insurance. Ok, it might seem like a lot of hassle to go to for something that may or may not happen, but you won’t regret paying for it should anything go awry. To avoid spending excessive amounts on things like medical expenses and loss or theft of your possessions, invest in travel insurance for some peace of mind.

Making a decision about your travel insurance is a crucial part of planning a holiday, so it is important that you’ve made sure you fully understand your chosen policy, and that you know from thorough research that it’s the right one for you.