To insure? Not to insure? Surely you can decide

How about a firm "maybe?"

I suppose that I ought to admit that the one time I really needed travel insurance I did not have it. I learned the true meaning of false economy. I was out over two thousand dollars when a family medical emergency necessitated a rapid return to the States. That said, I still do not always buy travel insurance. I do make a detailed assessment and decide whether I need it.

If you have dependent children or elderly relatives, an unfortunate incident could send you home prior to the end of your journey. Last-minute airfare and unplanned overnights at airport hotels are expensive.

If you're certain that only your own health is at issue, you may or may not need travel medical insurance. First, review your regular medical insurance policy to see what is covered while you are on the road. Most US private-pay coverage will reimburse part of the expense of out-of-country emergency medical care. Expect a long, complicated claim filing process.

If you are a US citizen covered by Medicaid, your coverage is only good within fifty miles of the border of your home state. If Medicare covers you, check any private Medicare supplemental policy to see what your traveling coverage may be.

Nations within the ECU will honor national health plans of other member nations for emergency care. Emergency Medical Care Evacuation Insurance is a specialized type of insurance that covers either transportation to a medical facility or all the way home should you become ill or have an accident. Cruise passengers as well as adventure travelers should evaluate the need for this type of policy.

If you travel independently in countries where you may have difficulty communicating, you may want International Medical Assistance. Upon purchasing this service, you get a telephone number that will direct you to an English-speaking physician. Keep in mind that the staff of most large hotels and many tourist offices can help you find an English-speaking doctor.

Other protection you can purchase provides for repatriation of remains, accidental death, trip operator default and baggage loss.

Before buying any insurance, have a look at your current coverage. Does your car insurance cover you if you are driving a rental car? What about your credit card? If you rent a car or buy an airline ticket with your credit card is there automatically insurance coverage? After ascertaining what coverage you have, decide what coverage you want. It certainly doesn't benefit the traveler with one tiny bit of carry-on luggage to pay a premium for baggage loss.

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