Repatriation cover is a benefit offered included in some travel insurance packages and ensures that you are transported back to your home country in the event of a medical emergency where you are unable to be treated in the country where you are traveling or if deemed necessary by a medical doctor. If you are traveling with children, you will be pleased to know that they will have the same level of repatriation cover if they fall under your policy. Several travel insurance companies even offer an escort or assistance for individuals under the age of 18 if neither parent is there to accompany the minor back home.

There are two types of repatriation benefits:

Medical repatriation

Getting sick or having a medical emergency in a foreign country where you do not know anyone can be very scary. Medical repatriation cover ensures that, in the case of a medical emergency, you are evacuated to the nearest and most suitable medical facility or back to your home country if it is deemed necessary. Medical repatriation covers all transportation costs as well as costs of medical care and medication up to a maximum amount which would be specified by your insurance company. You will find details about medical repatriation cover in the medical emergency sector of your travel insurance policy and it is important to ensure that you have this cover before you leave your country of origin.

In the event of a pre-existing condition or disease that causes you to have a medical emergency while traveling, it is important to ensure that your insurance company is aware of this condition beforehand. Medical expenses and transportation can be hugely expensive and it difficult to know if you are being charged an appropriate amount in a foreign country where there may even be a language barrier.

Repatriation of remains

In the unfortunate event of your death or any other person covered by your policy, the cost of transportation of your remains back to your home country will be covered.

What to remember

If you suffer a medical emergency while travelling and need to be repatriated back home, you will need to contact your insurance company to ensure that they are aware of the situation and authorize your reason for being repatriated. All travel insurance companies have their own specific terms and conditions when if comes to repatriated, so it is essential that you read the fine print and are aware of what you are covered for.