It can be confusing knowing where to book travel and what insurance you need. Our guide should help you make the right choice
If you are travelling abroad on your elective, there are some important things to consider. You will also need to invest in specific insurance to make sure you are fully covered whilst on placement.
Here are some handy tips to help you along the way:
- Research you host country thoroughly. Government websites will have profiles with all the details of risks and travel changes that you need to be aware of
- Make a plan for any risk factors you may encounter and the best way to minimise the possibility (see our article on risk assessments for more ideas)
- Make sure you know where and how to contact your embassy is your placement country
- Know what your visa allows you to do. Read all the terms as it may prevent you from undertaking paid work for example
- Invest in high quality insurance. This is vital, particularly if you intend to try activities such as scuba diving or sky diving
- Read the small print carefully as some insurance plans will not cover certain accidents or emergencies
- You must also invest in insurance that covers medical indemnity regardless of your elective location. This is to protect you whilst you are on placement
- Make sure you know who to contact from your insurance should you need their advice
- Keep a printed copy of your insurance details with your things, as well as a digital copy somewhere it can be easily accessed
These are just a few things to be thinking about when planning your elective. Should you have any questions, we are always on hand. You can also speak with your academic advisor for more recommendations.