Which Common Vacation Activities Aren’t Covered by Most Travel Insurance Policies?

Did you know some of the most common vacation activities aren’t covered under many traditional insurance policies? Family travelers relying on travel insurance may want to double check before their next vacation, as many insurance companies have hidden coverage gaps that can turn routine fun into a not-so-fun expense.

Unless a travel insurance explicitly states them, injuries from these activities most likely aren’t covered:

• ATV or UTV excursion
• Parasailing
• Sledding, snowtubing or tobogganing
• Snorkeling
• Some downhill skiing and snowboarding
• Water skiing
• Zip lining

These experiences are quite popular at resorts, but they’re also classified by many insurance companies as “risky.” In fact, one of the misunderstood travel insurance coverage gaps is motorized vehicle experiences, which includes scooters, ATVs and jet skis, among others.

Another misconception is activities sold directly by cruise lines or resorts are automatically covered, but this isn’t always the case, so be sure to research beforehand to see what is and isn’t covered.

There are several ways to avoid coverage surprises and unforeseen out-of-pocket expenses. Read the adventure or hazardous activities list carefully and look for plans that explicitly name covered activities. Select high medical and evacuation limits; check rules around motorized vehicles and excursions; and, for older travelers, pay attention to alcohol-related excursions (which greatly vary).

Opt for travel insurance companies like SOVENTURE, which offer plans designed to cover many of these commonly booked experiences and clearly defines what is and isn’t covered.