Taking a year out before going to university and backpacking around Europe is something everyone wishes they could do- the experience of travelling and being independent and just taking a year out to refresh yourself before going back to studying can be just what you need. But, when you consider the dangers that come with travelling abroad alone, especially to the more rural sections of the world that backpackers favour, having the right insurance if something goes wrong can be so important.
Backpackers works very much like multi trip insurance and worldwide insurance, with the exception being that it covers you for much longer and gives you added protection against theft or injury whilst you’re away. You still get the basic baggage and travel protection you would on any policy but you can add extras that apply to the activities you’ll be doing such as sports insurance or winter sports insurance at a lower cost than usual. A lot of companies will tailor make your plan for you to make it suit your exact needs, as every backpacking trip is unique so one insurance won’t be right for another.
There are many things to take into consideration when choosing what insurance you want.
First, consider what it is you’ll actually be doing on your trip. Many insurers will insure you differently depending on what you’re doing- are you planning to do voluntary work, or are you planning to get a job for a year, or will you just be doing odd jobs to supplement your travel? It’s all important. They will also insure you depending what sort of accommodation you’ll be staying it- a hostel is very different to renting your own flat, of course, so the cover will be different to cover all the risks. You can also get medical cover which will help if you are injured or taken ill on your travel, and it will also cover the costs of the return home if you have to be sent home early.
However, some countries are listed as no-go zones, so always tell your insurer exactly which countries you’ll be going to so you can be absolutely certain every country or area you’re visiting is available to be covered on the plan.
Overall the most important thing is to make sure you stay safe on your gap year travel, keep out of dangerous areas, stick to your plans and make sure you have contacts back home who can help you if you have a problem with your bank or money or have an emergency- always make sure someone back home knows when you’ve moved countries.