The US Travel Insurance Association (UStiA) has urged vacationers to protect themselves against the unforeseen with a dependable travel insurance policy.

Even despite the latest technology, baggage is not averse to going awry during a trip overseas. With a suitable travel insurance policy, you can invest in replacement items at short notice without having to worry about the cost, should your bags end up thousands of miles away.

Canceling flights at the last minute due to illness can put a damper on the holidays, but ensure it doesn’t dent your finances as well by investing in a travel insurance safety net, advises the UStiA.

“If you have to cancel your trip because of family illness, travel insurance will usually reimburse you up to the cost of your insured trip,” says UStiA president Jon Ansell.

A good policy will also cover the astronomical cost of overseas medical care, which can escalate if bones are broken or if provisions such as an airlift to safety are involved.

Inclement weather has a habit of scuppering travel plans, but with a comprehensive insurance plan, the cost of overnight accommodation and any associated expenses will be covered.

“The holidays are a great time for family travel and the majority of trips go off smoothly,” Mr Ansell continued. “However, the risk of unforeseen circumstances can set the best-laid plans off course and, worse, may cause you to lose all or part of your vacation payments.”