British tourists planning their holidays on a cruise have been urged to avoid one “costly” mistake that could see their travel costs soar.
Cruises are becoming increasingly popular with families. They offer the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one trip, provide great value for money, and feature a wide range of onboard facilities.
However, a money expert Hannah Mayfield, who works with PayingTooMuch, has warned travellers to avoid making one costly mistake.
According to the expert, it is advisable not to buy travel insurance directly from the cruise operator.
She explained: “Despite being cost-savvy and making the most of the discounted period to book a cruise, there’s one simple mistake that people make which can see them end up paying more than they need to.
“Buying your travel insurance cover directly from the cruise operator may seem convenient, but this can actually end up being a more costly option.”
Buying travel insurance for a cruise is essential to protect against unexpected disruptions, from medical emergencies to trip cancellations.
With limited onboard medical care and unpredictable weather, insurance can help you, so you won’t be left with costly bills, the expert warned.
She added: “With costs already high, failing to do your research and selecting the wrong travel insurance could end up costing you even more — completely undoing the savings you hoped to gain by booking during wave season.”
While some cruise lines provide discounted or even complimentary fares for children under a certain age, pricing policies vary between operators. As a result, costs for young passengers can differ significantly and may accumulate quickly.
That’s not all—if you have pre-existing medical conditions, ensuring you have comprehensive coverage is essential.
Travelling, especially on a cruise, can sometimes lead to increased expenses due to additional insurance requirements or medical considerations.
Ms Mayfield continued: “Instead of automatically opting for the cruise provider’s policy, comparison sites can help you find better deals that provide the same cover — or even better.
“Travel insurance policies from other insurers tend to be more comprehensive than those you might purchase through a cruise line. Third-party insurance plans can often be far cheaper, offering the same level of protection for your family.”