Sanlam Travel Insurance offers robust coverage options for travelers, ensuring peace of mind during international trips. This article delves into the details of the Sanlam Travel Insurance policy, highlighting the benefits, costs, and coverage limits. Whether you’re a Reality Access member enjoying free travel insurance or considering the optional top-up cover for enhanced protection, this guide provides all the information you need.
Overview of Sanlam Travel Insurance
Sanlam Travel Insurance is designed to cover emergency medical and related expenses up to R5,000,000 for Reality Access members traveling internationally. This free coverage lasts for up to 45 days per trip. For those seeking additional coverage, optional top-up plans are available, offering up to R15,000,000 in coverage. Note that this insurance is only available to individuals 65 years old or younger.
Key Features:
- Free Cover: Up to R5,000,000 for emergency medical expenses.
- Optional Top-Up Cover: Up to R15,000,000 for medical and related emergencies.
- Age Limit: Available to individuals 65 years old or younger.
Sanlam Free International Travel Insurance
Sanlam provides free international travel insurance to Reality Access and Fedhealth members. This plan covers unexpected medical emergencies and related expenses while traveling outside of South Africa. The coverage includes:
- Emergency Medical Expenses: Up to R5,000,000.
- USA Coverage: R500,000 with an inpatient excess fee of R2,000.
- Medical Transportation: Covers transportation to a nearby hospital.
- Repatriation and Evacuation: Includes costs for repatriation and evacuation, subject to outpatient excess fees of R2,000.
- Pet Care Cover: Up to R3,000 for pet emergencies with a minimum daily spend of R250.
Additional Benefits:
- Compassionate Emergency Visit: No excess payment required.
- Repatriation of Children and Travel Companion: Included in the coverage.
- Burial, Cremation, or Return of Mortal Remains: Covered without excess payment.
- Sporting Activity Medical Support: Included in the free cover.
Excess Fees:
- Medical Claims: R2,000.
- Outpatient Services: R2,000.
- Pet Care: R3,000 cover.
Optional Top-Up Cover
For enhanced protection, Sanlam offers an optional top-up cover that extends coverage up to 45 days. The cost and coverage details are as follows:
Premium Costs:
- Non-USA Visits:
- 1 to 14 days: R450.
- 15 to 32 days: R875.
- 33 to 45 days: R1,285.
- USA Visits:
- 1 to 14 days: R585.
- 15 to 32 days: R1,135.
- 33 to 45 days: R1,670.
Coverage Highlights:
- Emergency Medical Expenses: Up to R15,000,000.
- Pre-Existing Illnesses: Up to R750,000 for emergency hospital medical and related expenses.
- Permanent Disability: Up to R1,000,000.
- Accidental Death: Up to R250,000.
- Luggage Cover: Up to R15,000, with a single item limit of R3,750 and an excess of R350.
- Luggage Delays: Covered up to R2,000.
Travel Protection:
- Journey Cover: Includes cancellation, curtailment, extension, and missed connections up to R15,000, with an excess of R500.
- Trip Postponement: Covered up to R7,500, with an excess of R500.
- Personal Liability: Up to R2,000,000.
Advantages of Sanlam Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive Free Coverage: Offers extensive protection, including repatriation of travel companions.
- Optional Top-Up: Enhances existing travel insurance with higher coverage limits.
- Inpatient and Outpatient Coverage: Provides financial protection for a variety of medical situations.
- Luggage Protection: Covers loss, theft, and delays.
- Coverage for Older Travelers: Available for those over 65, albeit at an additional cost.
Disadvantages of Sanlam Travel Insurance
- Limited Basic Cover: The free cover might not be sufficient for all travelers, especially for trips to the USA.
- Higher Premiums for USA Visits: Optional top-up plans for the USA are more expensive.
- Age Restrictions: Free coverage is only available for individuals 65 years old or younger.
- Excess Fees: Applicable for many claims, which might increase out-of-pocket expenses.
How to Apply for Sanlam Travel Insurance
To obtain Sanlam Travel Insurance, you need to:
- Provide Personal Details: Including your Fedhealth membership number.
- Select Your Destination: Ensure it is outside South Africa.
- Specify Travel Dates: Provide the departure and return dates.
Applications can be processed online at www.tic.co.za/fedhealth.
Conclusion
Sanlam Travel Insurance is a solid choice for international travelers, particularly Reality Access and Fedhealth members who benefit from free coverage. The optional top-up cover provides additional peace of mind with higher coverage limits and protection against a wider range of risks. However, it’s essential to consider the limitations and excess fees associated with the policy, especially if traveling to the USA or if over 65 years old.
By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of Sanlam Travel Insurance, travelers can make informed decisions to ensure they are adequately protected during their trips abroad.