Life Begins At.....
Issue link: http://ebook.aprs.com.au/i/47118
How well are you covered? Travel insurance is important for peace of mind when going on your dream holiday. But there are a few other things you can do to prepare and to plan for unexpected hiccups along the way. Ensuring you take some time to research your destinations for such things as where to access basic medical services, where embassies are located and the best way to get to and from airports. If you do have concerns about accessing health care, you should look into such things as reciprocal health care agreements and what emergency care is available where such arrangements exist between Australia and other countries. Understanding the climate and updated weather you can expect will assist in not only managing your comfort, but local health risks and ailments that might be affected by weather. You should speak to your doctor before travelling and check with them for the appropriate vaccinations and if the destination is more 'adventurous' consider getting a good first aid kit that has just more than a few bandaids. If you are taking medication daily it is best to seek advice on adjusting frequency when moving between time zones. You need to be aware that some countries restrict certain pain management medication and carrying a prescription is essential. Speak to your doctor about written and signed documentation if carrying a lot of medications or many varieties of medication. Deep vein thrombosis should be discussed with your practitioner if you are taking long flights. There is always general advice provided by airlines on things to do during flight and it is advisable for all travellers to consider wearing recommended stockings to assist with circulation. Carry-on luggage should not only have essential medication, you should consider taking some basic toiletries so you can brush your teeth and apply deodorant or fragrance during flight to help you keep feeling fresh. Of course, you will need to stick to the 100ml rule for liquids in your cary on luggage but you can take an empty drink bottle on board to fill, once in-flight. Pack some essential clothing in case of baggage delays, as well as ensuring important documents and valuables are with you in the cabin. Look at investing in an airline approved cabin bag with wheels and extended handle. Not only does it save your back, some designs allow you to stack other small bags against the handle whilst walking, making long airport transits much easier. Lastly, it is important that you keep family and friend in the know with travel plans and your itinerary. If you have a web based email account you can easily remain in touch abroad. You also can use this account to email yourself a copy of your travel insurance policy and any assistance numbers should you lose your property or need help whilst travelling. ACE Insurance is one of Australian Seniors Insurance Agency's premium partners and has a travel insurance policy specifically designed for Australian Seniors members. One trip international policies start from $49!^, which provide a broad cover for many things* THE RETIREE SUMMER 163 If you would like to take out an Australian Seniors Travel Insurance policy or for more information, please call 1800 024 848. Australian Seniors Travel Insurance is issued and underwritten by ACE Insurance Limited ABN 23 001 642 020, AFSL No. 239687 (ACE), and promoted by Australian Seniors Insurance Agency, a trading name of Cardell Insurance Agencies Pty Ltd AR No.270983 (Seniors). ACE and Seniors only provide general advice, and do not consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. To decide if this product is right for you, please read the Policy Wording and Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), which is available at www.seniors.com.au/ travel-insurance or by calling 1800 024 848. *Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. For full details, please read the PDS ^ Example based on a 69 year old travelling to South West Pacific for 5 days.