Gap year: Consumer advice center recommends comprehensive insurance

Gap year: Consumer advice center recommends comprehensive insurance

For many young people, the gap year represents a huge adventure; sometimes it is even the first time abroad without their parents. Comprehensive insurance is therefore essential in order to get off to a worry-free start. The Hamburg Consumer Center provides an overview of the necessary policies for a stay abroad.

For the gap year, appropriate health insurance is essential, which is also valid abroad. It is important that the insurance also covers transport costs to return home in the event of serious health problems. If the gap year is organized by an agency, it is often possible to take out suitable insurance through them. Otherwise, you should contact your health insurance company to discuss the options. The consumer advice center points out that the coverage period of international travel health insurance is limited and is not sufficient for an entire gap year. Anyone traveling for longer than six weeks needs long-term international health insurance.

It is important to check your private liability insurance before the gap year. It protects against claims for damages, for example after an accident that you caused yourself. Children are usually insured by their parents, but after a certain age or after moving into their own apartment, their own insurance is required. Insurance coverage abroad depends on the tariff chosen. While some providers limit coverage only to Germany, many policies are valid worldwide and often without a time limit. Periods of twelve or more months are quite common.

For young backpacking adventurers, theft can mean big trouble. However, the Hamburg consumer advice center advises against luggage insurance. The cost of the policy is often high, and the contents are only reimbursed based on the current value and not the new price. In addition, there are often many restrictions in the insurance conditions. Furthermore, the luggage is already covered for up to three months by an existing household contents insurance, but only for robbery and not for theft. In addition to insurance, there are other things you should take care of before a gap year, such as your cell phone contract or visa. The Hamburg Consumer Center offers a comprehensive checklist with all the important points in its consumer tips.