Features: Gap year insurance

Gap years are hugely advantageous, providing a fantastic opportunity for personal and academic development. Seasoned travellers will tell you the importance of being insured whilst abroad, especially if you're planning on exploring during your time away

Travel insurance is a great start, but unfortunately most policies won't cover those on a gap year properly, as they're normally designed for those looking to catch a tan by the pool on a relaxing week away. A specialised gap year policy is essential, but with so many policies, it can be confusing knowing what to look for.

Key areas of cover should include:

Length of stay

It's absolutely essential that your policy covers the entire duration of your stay, whether that be a couple of months or a full year. There's no point being insured for 365 days when you're only away for three months for example, and it's even more important that you don't buy only three months cover and stay abroad for 12 months.

Work abroad

 

If you're planning on working abroad, check that you won't invalidate your cover by doing so; and that the cover insures against any slips or scrapes that may happen in the workplace.

Trips home

If a whole year away from family or friends gets to be too much, a short trip home can make all the difference. So it's worth checking that your policy can either be put on hold or interrupted.

Activities

Adventurous activities often happen on impulse. Whilst you're away, you may want to take advantage of the windsurfing, a spot of mountain climbing or even skiing. It's really important to know upfront if your cover includes protection for any sports and activities.

Medical cover

It's so easy to forget that not every country has a free health service and in the event of an accident, medical bills, can be quite staggering. Investigate the premiums on medical insurance and be sure to check it covers the more risky activities you may want to embark on.

Tailored insurance

Only you know what you're looking to get out of your gap year adventure: be it sporting, working, volunteering or a combination of all three. So getting the right insurance policy to reflect your needs is vital.

Tailor your cover to suit you and the specifics of your trip at Endsleigh - Gap Year Travel Insurance  .