Even though things don't always go exactly as planned. We know that by now, too. A suitcase that decides to go on a journey of its own. A romantic scooter ride along winding coastal roads that turns out to be just a little more adventurous than planned. Or that one evening when the music is so good, the dance floor beckons, and the phone can't find its way back to the hotel room. (Whoops.) And sometimes it's not the journey, but just one's own body that isn't quite cooperating. That one plate of local food chosen with such enthusiasm turns out not to sit quite as well as hoped the next morning.

Even on a babymoon, an extra appointment with the local doctor might suddenly appear on the schedule because the little one in the belly requires a bit more attention. Not exactly the holiday outing planned, but one where it is nice to have someone on hand to think things through. These are the kinds of moments no one anticipates, but which can secretly just happen. 

For all the things we prefer to have arranged in advance, we called in an expert from Interpolis. After all, what are the things you really need to think about before packing your bags?

An important tip: check whether medical costs are adequately covered. Health insurance abroad does not always cover everything, especially if a treatment turns out to be more expensive than in the Netherlands or requires a private clinic. And should something happen? Then the Eurocross emergency center is the first place you call. There are people there who immediately think along with you, set everything necessary in motion, and help you step by step, wherever in the world you are.

What absolutely must not be missing from your hand luggage?

Passports (seems logical, but still), medication, phone and chargers, wallet, any travel documents, a set of spare clothes and underwear, and items that absolutely must not get lost, such as a camera if you are taking one. Because if the suitcase decides to make a stopover, it is nice if the holiday can still just start.

Do you have to maintain continuous travel insurance for a whole year, or can you simply cancel it?

At Interpolis, you can cancel your continuous travel insurance daily from the start date. This is convenient, because travel plans simply change. Adding an extra city trip, a long journey on the agenda, or perhaps traveling a little less often? Life (and the holiday calendar) cannot always be planned neatly. This way, everything stays organized without becoming a constant burden.

We are going on a honeymoon or babymoon to the other side of the world… what coverage do we need?

That dream trip to Bali, South Africa, Japan, or a tropical island naturally sounds like nothing but adventure, cocktails, beautiful views, and plenty of "we should have done this sooner" moments. But for long-haul destinations, it is smart to check if your travel insurance suits your destination. After all, outside of Europe, you need worldwide coverage. At Interpolis, you can always adjust your coverage very easily. So, just double-check before we start dreaming.