Mastercard travel insurance: All you need to know

Find out all you need to know about Mastercard travel insurance. In this article, we'll explore the various benefits offered by this insurance. Find out how these coverages can protect you when you travel, and how to take full advantage of them.

The main advantages of credit card insurance are that it covers the majority of credit and debit cardholders (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, etc.) and, in certain situations, avoids the need to take out specific travel insurance.

How to differentiate between assistance coverage and travel insurance?

Travel insurance is an essential element for people wishing to protect themselves during their travels. To make the right choice, it's important to understand the benefits and differences between travel assistance and travel insurance.

What is travel assistance?

Travel assistance refers to the emergency services provided by the credit card company, such as Mastercard, which can help you in the event of a problem during your trip. This may include medical assistance, legal assistance or other "logistical" help.

What is travel insurance?

On the other hand, travel insurance goes beyond assistance and offers financial coverage in the event of an unforeseen and costly situation. Travel insurance can include coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen luggage, third-party liability and even repatriation if necessary. This insurance can be purchased separately or included with certain types of credit card, such as high-end Mastercard.

It is important to check the specific terms and conditions of your Mastercard travel insurance, as each contract may vary in terms of coverage, limits and exclusions. We recommend that you consult the details of your travel insurance contract before each trip.

It's common for travel insurance policies to offer logistical assistance AND financial guarantees, but it's important to understand the difference to make an informed decision about choosing the best cover for your business trips.

What assistance guarantees are included with Mastercard bank cards?

The assistance benefits offered by Mastercard bank cards are designed to provide you with support and assistance in the event of an emergency during your travels. Here are the most common assistance benefits:

1. Health assistance: In the event of accident or illness during your trip, medical assistance gives you access to health professionals, medical advice by telephone or even medical evacuation services. Medical and hospitalization costs are also covered, as are any expenses incurred by a close relative coming to accompany you.
2. Repatriation: This essential service covers the cost of repatriating the traveler to his or her country of origin in the event of a serious accident.
3. Early return: If you need to return to France to be at the bedside of a sick relative or to attend a funeral, return travel costs such as train or plane tickets are covered.
4. Legal assistance: If you have legal problems abroad, this assistance can provide you with legal advice, help in finding a local lawyer and even cover the legal costs associated with your situation.

Some of these coverages are found mainly on top-of-the-range Mastercard cards such as the Gold card. Standard Mastercard insurance still covers you in many respects, but it's important to see the difference depending on the card you choose.

These assistance guarantees may vary according to the type of Mastercard you have and the associated level of coverage. What's more, it's essential to consult your bank, as it provides all the cover linked to your bank card. Your bank advisor will be able to tell you in detail what you are covered for.

What travel insurance does Mastercard offer?

1. Trip cancellation: This insurance covers the cost of cancelling your trip in the event of unforeseen events such as illness, accident, death of a close relative, or any other reason specified in the terms and conditions of your Mastercard travel insurance.
2. Baggage theft or loss: This insurance covers you in the event of theft, loss or damage to your baggage during your trip. It can cover the cost of replacing lost or damaged personal effects.
3. Third-party liability abroad: This coverage protects you in the event of property damage or bodily injury caused to third parties during your trip abroad. It can cover the cost of repairs or compensation in the event of civil liability.
4. Death and disability: This insurance provides financial coverage in the event of death or permanent disability following an accident during your trip. It can provide for the payment of a lump sum or an annuity to designated beneficiaries.
5. Vehicle rental: This coverage protects you in the event of damage to or theft of your rental vehicle during your trip. It can cover the cost of repairing or replacing the vehicle, as well as third-party liability costs related to its use.

As with assistance, it's important to note that these insurances may vary according to the type of Mastercard you have and the level of coverage associated with it. It is therefore advisable to consult your bank for precise information on the specific cover linked to your bank card. Your bank advisor will be able to provide you with full details of the cover you benefit from, as well as compensation limits.

What are the exclusions of Mastercard travel insurance?

Certain exclusions may apply to Mastercard travel insurance. It is essential to be aware of these exclusions in order to understand what is not covered by your insurance. Here are some common examples of exclusions:

• Travel to high-risk areas or failure to comply with the recommendations of the French government or local authorities.
• Travel for pre-existing medical reasons or if you are already ill before your trip.
• Accidents caused by dangerous or extreme activities such as extreme sports, car racing, etc.
• Damage caused intentionally or by drunk driving.
• Loss or damage caused by war, acts of terrorism or natural disasters.
• Theft or loss of valuables not mentioned in the list of insured items.
• Medical or hospitalization expenses resulting from illnesses not covered by your insurance.
• Trip modification or cancellation fees due to reasons not specified in the terms and conditions of your insurance.

It's important to carefully read the terms and conditions of your Mastercard travel insurance policy for any specific exclusions. If you have any doubts about the exclusions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your bank and your advisor for information specific to your contract.

How can I make a claim on my Mastercard travel insurance?

To make a claim on your Mastercard travel insurance, follow the steps below:

1. Contact the insurer immediately: It is important to contact the insurer as soon as you are faced with a situation covered by your Mastercard travel insurance. You'll find the insurer's contact details on the insurance certificate or on the Mastercard website.
2. Prepare the necessary documents: Gather all the documents required for the claim, such as payment receipts, medical bills, police reports, airline tickets, etc. Make sure you keep all original receipts. Be sure to keep all original receipts.
3. Fill in the claim form: Consult the insurer's website or contact their customer service department to obtain the claim form. Fill it in carefully, providing all the required information.
4. Include documents with your claim: Don't forget to include all documents relevant to your claim, as mentioned above. Be sure to photocopy them and keep a copy for your own records.
5. Send the claim: Send the claim form and all necessary documents to the address indicated by the insurer. We recommend that you send the claim by registered mail, so that you have proof of posting.
6. Follow the progress of your claim: Contact the insurer regularly to follow the progress of your claim. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your bank and your advisor, so that they can help you as best they can.

It's always important to note that each Mastercard travel insurance policy may have specific conditions and deadlines for submitting a claim, so make sure you understand them and meet the deadlines.

How can I obtain a Mastercard travel insurance certificate?

To obtain a Mastercard travel insurance certificate for your trip, please follow the steps below:

1. Please log in: Log in to your account online or contact your Mastercard-issuing bank to obtain the necessary login details.
2. Go to the Travel Insurance section: Once you've logged in, find the section dedicated to travel insurance or managing your Mastercard.
3. Check your eligibility: Make sure you're eligible for Mastercard travel insurance by checking the specific eligibility conditions linked to your card. These conditions may vary depending on the type of card you have, your spending habits and any other specific criteria.
4. Provide the required information: Fill in the online form with details of your trip, such as dates, destination and your Mastercard number. Be sure to provide accurate and complete information to facilitate the process.
5. Download the insurance certificate: Once you have submitted the required information, you should be able to download the insurance certificate for your trip. Be sure to keep a printed or electronic copy of this document for future reference.

It is important to note that the specific procedures for obtaining a Mastercard travel insurance certificate may vary from one issuing bank to another. It is therefore advisable to consult your bank's online resources or contact customer service for detailed, up-to-date instructions. Asking your bank advisor may be a faster solution in some cases.

Fairjungle's opinion

In conclusion, Mastercard travel insurance offers a comprehensive range of coverages to protect you when you travel. Whether you need assistance in the event of early return, repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage protection, third-party liability abroad, death and disability, or car rental, this insurance gives you the peace of mind you need. Don't forget to consult the terms and conditions of your Mastercard travel insurance to understand the details of each benefit and benefit from optimal coverage.

Don't hesitate to look into dedicated travel insurance policies, which can provide you with more extensive coverage and higher compensation ceilings.