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Car Insurance Health Insurance Travel Insurance

Is it difficult to compare insurance quotes online?

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No matter what kind of insurance you’re looking for, whether it’s travel, health, home, or car insurance, you have the best chance of finding the right deal for you when you compare online. Comparing different insurance quotes online is the sure way to ensure you get the best possible quote – but is it difficult to do?

The simple answer is no, anyone can do it!

How do you compare quotes online?

There are two main ways you can compare travel insurance from different insurance companies online. The first is to make a list of insurance companies and make your application to each of them. When you get your quote back, you can compile those quotes in a list and see which is the best one for you. The trouble with this is that it’s time-consuming and laborious.

The second way is by using a dedicated insurance comparison site. There you make one simple application, no matter what kind of cover you’re looking for, be it home insurance, car, travel, health, etc, and the comparison tool does the hard work. It passes your application on to multiple insurance partners, who will then provide you with a quote. The quotes are automatically compiled in a list for you, and in many cases, you can have multiple quotes to choose from in as little as a few minutes.

How do comparison websites work?

Comparison websites partner with multiple insurance providers. When a customer makes an application through the comparison site, it passes it straight to those insurance providers. Generally, a comparison website will make its own money either through advertising or through fees for its service, either directly to customers or to the insurance providers. Either way, it offers a much faster and more convenient way to find a variety of insurance quotes in as little as a few minutes.

If you want to find your next insurance quote online, be sure to use a comparison site that you can trust in order to get the very best quotes possible. Whether it’s home insurance, car, travel, or health cover you need, you can rely on Compare Insurance for the quote.

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Travel Insurance

5 ways to get cheaper travel insurance

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After spending your hard-earned wages on a lovely holiday, it is understandable that you want to get the best deal on the best travel insurance.

Just by making sure that you are insured for your trip may save you money. Unforeseen cancellations, costly medical bills and losing your luggage – each of these things could cost you dearly if you are uninsured.

Here are 5 other quick tips on saving money.

Compare the market

Don’t just go with the travel insurance offered by your chosen travel agent. Make sure that you have thoroughly researched the market for the best deal. The easiest way to do this is with an online insurance comparison site, such as Compare Insurance.

Only pay for what you need

Insurance policy documents are often lengthy and can be tricky to read. However, take the time to go through the document carefully and make sure that you are not paying for something that you don’t need. Removing extras like winter sports add-ons, for example, can help reduce your premium.

Increase the excess

This option has pros and cons. Paying an ‘excess’ refers to the amount of money you will have to pay towards any claim that you make on your travel insurance. The amount varies, and the more money that you are prepared to pay towards your claim, usually the lower your overall travel insurance premium.

Think carefully though before you go for this option. If you do need to claim on your travel insurance, have you got the money readily available?

Is this your only trip?

Although an annual travel insurance package works out more expensive than a single trip premium, it could work out cheaper if you are planning any other trips in the coming 12 months. Paying for several single cover travel insurance premiums will work out more expensive in the long run.

Avoid countries with expensive healthcare

The United States, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean all have expensive healthcare. This will be reflected in the high cost of your premium. If you really want to keep the cost of your travel insurance low, avoid these destinations.

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Health Insurance

3 health insurance pitfalls to avoid

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With the current pandemic situation across the world, there has never been a better time to have health insurance. However, a lot of people often sign up for a health insurance policy without giving the policy the correct scrutiny, which can lead to health care coverage that is insufficient or will see your claim rejected. In this article, we will take a look at the three main health insurance pitfalls to avoid to find the best health insurance companies.

1. Relying on an employer insurance policy

Most companies offer health insurance for their employees, but one mistake to avoid is to just totally rely on this policy to cover you for every eventuality. For a start, this policy is unlikely to cover your family, and will end as soon as you leave the company for any reason, be it another job or retirement etc.

This means, that you should look to take out a personal health insurance policy as quickly as possible in order to cover you and your family that you can rely on no matter where you are working or who for.

2. Coverage that is insufficient for your needs

A lot of people sign up for a health insurance policy without really understanding what illnesses and injuries are covered by the policy. This can be a costly mistake, especially during an emergency when you realise that your insurance coverage does not cover the costs of treatment for your particular situation.

3. Not fully disclosing your medical history

In order to provide you with cover that is relevant to your situation, an insurance company will need to have accurate data relating to your medical history. Some people downplay their medical history in order to lower the cost of the premiums they must pay for their policy. However, insurance companies often carry out due diligence on all new policy applications, and if they uncover a discrepancy then they may well reject any claim you make, as well as marking you out as a fraud risk to other insurance companies.

In summary

These are the three most important pitfalls to avoid when it comes to health insurance, and by following this advice you will be able to secure a comprehensive health insurance policy that will not let you down when you need it.

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Travel Insurance

What are the 3 tiers of travel insurance?

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There are generally 3 tiers of travel insurance available, which is loosely related to the cost of healthcare in your chosen destination.

Europe

Generally, a regular holiday to Europe offers cheap travel insurance although most European countries are included in a typical travel insurance package, it is worth discussing with your broker (or checking online information) which European holiday destinations are included.

Some insurers do not include a handful of European countries in their regular cover, countries such as Cyprus, Greece, and Switzerland. Although this is not always the case, it’s worth checking in case you need to upgrade your insurance.

Worldwide, excluding certain countries

The next best value in terms of travel insurance premiums is the worldwide cover, excluding USA, Canada, Caribbean and Mexico. Healthcare in these exempt countries is typically much more expensive compared to other countries. Excluding these countries allows for a decrease in the premium.

Worldwide

This is the most expensive travel insurance and covers the whole globe (usually excluding certain countries experiencing war and other instabilities). If you are travelling to the United States, Canada, Caribbean and Mexico for example, this is the cover you will need to pay for, even if you don’t intend on travelling to any other country.

Excluded countries

Despite its name, the ‘worldwide’ cover does not in fact always cover you for the whole world. There are certain countries that you cannot obtain mainstream travel insurance for, largely because they are deemed too unstable, dangerous, or are currently in a state of war or political upheaval.

However, different travel insurers may have different policies, so it is always worth shopping around for the best deal to suit you.

The countries that are excluded from worldwide cover are generally countries that have been listed by your government’s foreign office as advising against all travel (or against all but essential travel). Again, there may be insurers out there who will give you travel insurance cover, but with exemptions on what you can claim for.

For the best deals on travel insurance, it is always worth comparing all the different companies.

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Travel Insurance

3 holidays that make travel insurance more expensive

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When looking to go on holiday, travel insurance is a must. Being insured for the unforeseen is essential for a stress-free trip. There are many levels of insurance that are available, depending on what kind of trip you have planned. If you are going on a standard beach holiday, for example, most holiday insurance will cover you for the basics. However, there are some types of activity holidays that can increase your insurance premium. This is largely due to the increased risk of you needing to claim on your insurance. These are known as ‘optional’ or ‘add-on’ costs and they allow for more comprehensive and specific cover.

Here are the top 3 holidays that will increase your insurance costs.

Winter sports

Comprehensive medical insurance is essential for a ski or snowboard holiday. Broken legs or fractured bones can ruin a trip, but you don’t want to be burdened with spiralling hospital costs as well. Alongside medical cover, an extra travel insurance add-on will ensure you’re covered for such eventualities as piste closures, lost lift passes, and associated ski equipment hire, amongst other things.

Golfing holiday

Alongside winter sports, a golf holiday needs a special mention on your travel insurance. If your equipment and clubs are stolen, lost or damaged, or if you don’t make it onto the course, you will be compensated for the costs you incur. Replacement golf equipment hire and the reimbursement of green fees comes as standard too.

Going on a cruise

This additional cost to your insurance premium is a must if you are going on a cruise. Loss of valuables and baggage will often only be covered with this add-on premium. This insurance is very specific and can even cover you if you are unexpectedly confined to your cabin.

One way to off-set these add-on costs could be to increase your excess, which is a term used to describe the money you pay before your insurance pays the remainder of the cost. Be sure to compare all the different travel insurances out there to get the best possible price.

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Car Insurance Travel Insurance

How to plan a self-driving holiday

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If you have always dreamed of driving around different countries on a self-driving holiday, whether independently or with family and friends, it is important you carefully plan for your trip. In this blog post, we outline the top things you must consider and arrange before hitting the road.

1. Buy a reliable vehicle

Instead of renting a car or van, which you are unfamiliar with, you should choose to complete your self-driving holiday in a vehicle you own and are familiar with. This will ensure you do not experience any unexpected breakdowns and you are familiar with the driving limits of your car.

2. Find the right car insurance

If you choose to drive your car around the UAE or in a new country, it is essential you have comprehensive car insurance. Compare different car insurance policies and select a policy that offers you cover when in a different country. Insurance quotes online will ensure that should you get into an accident or breakdown, your holiday won’t be ruined by an extortionate fee.

3. Plan your route

While it may be tempting to hit the open road and see where it takes you, it is advisable to plan your route beforehand. This will ensure you can research any local rules and regulations and make sure you have the proper documentation to cross certain borders.

4. Revise your travel insurance

Ensure your travel insurance is updated before you hit the road. Even if you do not plan to leave the UAE, you may still require travel insurance. Selecting a comprehensive travel insurance policy before you begin your holiday will also ensure that should you decide to expand your holiday, or travel further afield than planned, you will be covered.

5. Create a budget

To ensure you do not blow all of your holiday budget in one destination, allocate a small budget for each place you plan to visit and try to stick to it. Remember, your biggest expense will most likely be fuel so this should be prioritised over other expenses.

Visit Compare Insurance

To ensure you get the best travel insurance and car insurance for your self-driving holiday, visit Compare Insurance today.

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Car Insurance

What information do I need to give when buying car insurance?

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If you’ve just passed your driving test or bought a new car and need to insure it before you get out on the road, it can be a bit of a minefield. As well as sussing out the different types of car insurance, you will also need to get organised and know what information you need to provide to potential insurers. Having your documents at your side when you’re shopping for car insurance will make the process easier and faster to compare insurance quotes.

So without further ado here’s a checklist of the information you need when buying car insurance.

Driver’s licence

This one’s a bit of a no-brainer, but you will need your driver’s licence to hand in case you need to input any information from it. On a side note, you should always keep copies of your licence in case it goes missing.

Vehicle registration

You need to bring with or have to hand any vehicle registration forms as proof of ownership.

Current declaration page

If you already have existing insurance for the vehicle you want to insure, it’s time to unearth your existing insurance declaration page plus any other documents related to your policy. You never know when you might need to access those T&Cs!

Voided check

When you purchase a new car insurance policy you’ll be asked questions about whether you’ve ever had a past policy terminated, declined or voided in the past.

Something to keep in mind

After you’ve bought your shiny, new car policy your insurer can cancel your policy if you fail to disclose certain information. If you give false information on purpose it counts as fraud and could mean your insurance is voided.

Never lie or give false information, not only could you risk losing that great deal you’ve just found, but you will also find it much more difficult to get a new policy in the future.

Find a great deal on your car insurance by using Compare Insurance today.

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Health Insurance

What is health insurance and what does it cover?

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Health insurance is sometimes known as private medical insurance and will cover the costs of all the benefits of private healthcare. This includes diagnosis, treatment, and everything in between. This is normally covered by monthly payments. One of the major benefits is quick and easy access to medical treatment, without being added to the bottom of a long waiting list. However, some insurance companies offer low cost health insurance with benefits which people are not aware of. Here, we fill you in:

Cover for mental health conditions

Mental health is a big issue in modern society, but luckily, it is being talked about more and more. Health insurance companies take measures to help people improve their mental health and decide on the right people to talk to. You can be immediately referred to a therapist or consultant without having to sit on a waitlist, which can be months long. Some insurance companies also offer mental health services over the phone.

Access to breakthrough cancer drugs

All health insurance companies will support someone at each stage of their journey if diagnosed with cancer. This support is quicker and more personal. Some health insurance companies, however, will also provide access to any breakthrough treatments and cancer drugs before they are available for wider use. You might even have access to these treatments before they are officially approved, as long as there is sufficient evidence for their safe and effective use. Health insurance can also be crucial for catching cancer at the very first signs, as it allows you to get checked out immediately without wasting any valuable time.

Digital GPs

While some aspects of healthcare have been drastically affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, health insurance can allow you to speak to a GP from home, meaning you are never left without help. While other healthcare providers also offer this service, it is unlikely to be for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also book live video appointments for a more personalised experience.

If you’re interested in taking out health insurance cover, visit Compare insurance where you can efficiently compare quotes. For more information or advice, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Car Insurance

Four ways to drive your car insurance cost down as an experienced driver

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Average car insurance cost can be yet another of those annoying costs that come out month after month, stopping you from diving into your next favourite hobby or taking that holiday you’ve wanted for ages. Here are a few ways to reduce your car insurance bill and free up some money to be better spent on you.

Pay Annually

Paying for your car insurance monthly is effectively taking out a loan. You’re spreading out what would be an annual cost into twelve, but when you pay monthly you also cover an interest payment sprinkled on top. Although you’ll only save a few per cent this way, if you’re saving the pennies then the pounds can look after themselves.

Only pay for what you need

Some people, when looking at car insurance, will consider going for a selection of fun features that they just don’t need. For example, if you were to go for “Enhanced Breakdown Cover” with a brand new car, it might not be required and could be a significant added cost to your car insurance quote. If you only get what you need for you could save a significant amount of money year on year.

Don’t modify your car

Whilst modifications like a louder exhaust, changed bodywork or a tuned engine might seem like a fun idea at the time, they can often come with high insurance costs. This is because modifications can often be done by dealers that are not certified or are seen to be unreliable. Whilst you might enjoy having a modified car, you might have to consider if the insurance cost is worth it.

Shop around

A lot of the time, you won’t find the best deal in the first place you look. It’s always best to shop around to try and find the ideal plan for you at an affordable price. If you’re interested in the best place to compare and contrast car insurance quotes, just visit Compare Insurance. We have a wide range of car insurance companies and quotes available, so we can help you to find the perfect deal.

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Car Insurance

3 car insurance myths debunked

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Car insurance can be extremely difficult to wrap your head around, so to make sure that you end up with the best deal, we’ve debunked three of the most common myths about cheap full coverage insurance.

No claims bonus protection will prevent my premium rising

Many car owners make the mistake of assuming that if they pay more to protect their no-claims bonus then this will stop their premium from growing if they decide to make a claim. However, it isn’t that straightforward. If you have chosen to make a claim and have already paid to protect it, you won’t lose your no-claims bonus, but your premium still has the potential to increase because your insurer might label you as ‘high-risk’. Your no-claims bonus also serves as a discount that is taken away from your premium, so you may still pay more at renewal.

Comprehensive insurance is always more expensive than third-party cover

While it makes logical sense that low-level cover would be cheaper, this is not always the case. Drivers that choose low-level cover have a tendency to make more claims, which has increased the cost of these low-cover policies. For many car owners, comprehensive cover can either cost less or the same as third-party cover or third-party, fire and theft cover, with the added benefit that your own vehicle will receive coverage for any damage.

If I don’t claim, my car insurance premium won’t increase

Every year that you don’t make a claim, you might be building up your no-claims bonus, but this does not mean that your car insurance premium won’t increase. The cost of your insurance will depend on a wide variety of factors. The majority of insurers will consider your age, so after you reach a certain age, your premiums might rise because you are regarded as higher risk. If you make specific adjustments to your insurance policy, such as your address or job, your premium could also change.

If you need help finding the best car insurance policy for you, get in touch with our team at Compare Insurance today.

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