Overpriced insurance during booking process discovered in a study by IMG, indicating travelers are paying excessively.
In a recent comparison study, International Medical Group (IMG) found that their iTravelInsured Choice plan offers better value and coverage than add-on travel insurance sold by major U.S. airlines and cruise lines during flight or cruise booking [1].
Key findings include:
- Travelers can save up to 56% by purchasing the iTravelInsured Choice plan compared to buying insurance add-ons from airlines or cruise lines [1].
- The iTravelInsured Choice plan provides more robust medical coverage and higher emergency evacuation limits than the airline/cruise line plans reviewed [1].
- Most U.S. airline and cruise line add-on insurance plans reviewed only provide secondary medical coverage or sometimes no medical coverage at all, whereas iTravelInsured Choice offers primary medical coverage, meaning IMG pays eligible medical expenses first regardless of other coverage the traveler may have [1].
The study aimed to educate travelers to make more informed insurance purchase decisions [1]. Overall, the study highlights that iTravelInsured Choice is typically less costly, covers medical needs more comprehensively, and provides stronger emergency evacuation benefits compared to add-on plans sold at checkout by U.S. travel carriers [1].
The research compared add-on travel insurance plans from four major U.S. airlines (Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines) and three major U.S. cruise lines (Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Group, and Norwegian Cruise Line). However, it is worth noting that the study did not include data from the fifth largest U.S. airline.
It's important to note that this study was not sponsored or funded by any of the travel carriers involved. In a recent customer survey, 47% of IMG customers reported they have previously purchased add-on insurance through an airline or cruise line [1].
Grant Hayes, IMG Director of International Sales - Travel, advised travelers not to feel pressured to select the only option available during the checkout process for a flight or cruise, as it may not be the best option for them and their travel needs [1]. Justin Poehler, IMG Chief Commercial Officer, stated that the study aims to educate and empower travelers to make informed decisions about travel insurance [1].
Theodore Koumelis, Co-Founder and Managing Editor of our website Media Network, has authored several articles on various topics, including travel, hotels, and airport innovation. He is responsible for business development and long-term planning at Media Network.
The article does not provide specific findings or conclusions from the research conducted or mention any statements from Justin Poehler or Grant Hayes regarding the study or its findings.
A traveler who prioritizes a comprehensive lifestyle, complete with adequate medical coverage and emergency evacuation benefits, may find the iTravelInsured Choice plan more suitable for their needs, as it offers superior value and coverage compared to add-on travel insurance plans sold by major U.S. airlines and cruise lines. When making travel insurance purchases, it's crucial for travelers to avoid feeling pressured by options presented during flight or cruise checkout, as the iTravelInsured Choice plan typically offers better costs, coverage, and benefits.
