Insurance

What are the limitations?

Check the small print! Below is a list of things to be aware of when checking or buying an insurance policy:

• Is the country you are swapping to black-listed? A government warning against travel to a country can void your insurance cover
• Is there a maximum pay-out from your insurer?
• Is there an excess on your policy? Will you have to pay an initial amount to receive your claim?
• Does the policy cover working abroad?
• What activities will your new job involve and are they covered?
• What outdoors or sporting activities might you want to take part in during your swap? Be aware that insurance companies may make a distinction between doing a hazardous sport once (e.g. a week’s skiing trip during your swap) and spending your whole time doing them (e.g. six months intensive skiing in the Rockies).
• What is the value of the possessions you are taking with you?
• Have you told your insurer that you are planning to let your property (if you are planning on renting)?
• Does your insurance policy have an age limit?
• Does it cover you for driving abroad?
• Finally, you should shop around or negotiate additional limits. Which leads us nicely into our next section…