The vaccines recommended for travelling depend on the destination, the trip's duration, the type of activities which will be done and the traveller's previous state of health.

Precautions to protect our health

• Prevent diseases

  Vaccinations for travelling abroad are essential in certain countries.

• Country-specific requirements

  Find out in advance about the vaccination requirements of the country you intend to visit.

• International Certificate of Vaccination

  Commonly referred to as the “yellow card”, it may turn out to be necessary to prove that you have been properly vaccinated.

• Preliminary planning

  Consult the traveller's doctor at least four to six weeks before the trip. Some vaccines require several doses or a certain amount of time for the body to develop immunity.

To take into account

Compulsory vaccines for travelling abroad

These are the vaccines for travelling abroadwithout which you will not be able to enter certain countries, especially countries in Africa, Asia and South America. Additionally, some destinations require an International Certificate of Vaccination.

• Yellow fever

  It is endemic in several countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South America, so it is a must if you are a tourist. You must get vaccinated if you are visiting Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Togo and Uganda. As well as both Guianas, Paraguay and Suriname. It is also advisable in Chad, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Sudan, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela.

  Vaccination is recommended all year round, but especially before the rainy season. The vaccination process involves a single dose that must be given at least 10 days before the trip, which will ensure lifelong immunity.

• Meningococcal meningitis

  You will need to be vaccinated to enter Saudi Arabia. This country also requires a vaccination certificate, which lasts three or five years depending on the type of vaccine. It is also advisable for anyone travelling to sub-Saharan Africa that is going to visit what is called “Africa's meningitis belt”. It includes 26 countries from Senegal to Ethiopia. They are parts or all of Gambia, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Eritrea. It must be administered at least ten days before travelling, in a single dose for meningococcal ACWY vaccines and in two doses for meningococcal B vaccines.

• Poliomyelitis

  The polio vaccine is mandatory for travellers coming from regions where cases are still reported to certain countries that have already eradicated the disease. Currently, the endemic presence of wild poliovirus (WP1) is limited to Pakistan and Afghanistan. Other countries considered to be at risk of transmission include Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Myanmar, Niger, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Syria, Somalia and Yemen. Some countries require the polio vaccine when travelling to areas where the disease persists, even if it is not endemic in the destination country.

Recommended

Recommended vaccines for travelling abroad

While the above vaccinations are essential for travel to certain foreign countries, there are others that, while not mandatory, are advisable. A number of them are included in the Spanish Social Security vaccination schedule.

• Cholera

  Predominant in Africa, Central and South America and Southeast Asia. Vaccination with two doses, seven days apart, is recommended. Immunity lasts between six and twelve months.

• Typhoid fever

  Recommended for trips to places with poor hygiene. If you choose oral administration, it is necessary to take three capsules every 48 hours at least ten days before travelling. If given by intramuscular injection, a single dose should be administered at least 14 days prior to travel. The vaccination can be repeated every three years.

• Hepatitis A

  The highest risk is in Africa, Southeast Asia and Latin America. It requires two or three doses. Protection starts between two to four weeks after the first dose and lasts up to 20 years. It is recommended that travellers be vaccinated at least two weeks prior to travel, although last-minute vaccination can offer significant protection.

• Hepatitis B

  The highest rates are found in the Western Pacific and Africa. It is advisable to start vaccination at least six weeks before travel, thus acquiring protection for at least twenty years. The usual schedule includes three doses administered by intramuscular injection: the second after 30 days and the third six to twelve months later. In emergencies, accelerated four-dose schedules (at months 0, 1 and 2, with a booster one year later) can be used. It is also possible to combine hepatitis A and B vaccines. For those over 16 years of age, there is an accelerated schedule of four doses.

• Tetanus

  If it is the first time, it is advisable to take the dose at least one month before the trip. In this case, the complete dosing schedule includes three intramuscular shots, the first two with a minimum of four weeks between them. A booster is recommended six to twelve months after the second dose.

• Rabies

  Vaccination against this disease is specially advisable for travellers planning to visit Africa and Asia. The method of administration and time required for immunisation varies depending on the type of vaccine used.

Other travel tips

Other recommendations for travelling abroad

1. Don't drink water from the tap

   Avoid this in countries where potability is not guaranteed to prevent gastrointestinal diseases.

2. Take medication with you

   Make sure you take any prescribed medication with you and enough supply for the length of the trip, as well as any medicine to treat common ailments.

3. Find out about security

   Before travelling, research the security situation in your destination, especially in areas at risk of conflict or natural disasters.

4. Copies of important documents

   Make copies of you passport and credit cards, and keep them in a safe place in case the originals are lost or stolen.

5. Travel insurance

   Take out a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, flight cancellations and loss of luggage to give you peace of mind during your trip. We recommend checking which countries require their visitors to have mandatory travel insurance.

Do you need travel insurance?

At Adeslas, we want you to worry only about choosing your destination because we'll take charge of protecting you. If you are unsure about what travel insurance covers, our travel assistance insurance covers the insured party, their personal belongings and other incidents that may happen during the trip.

Travel assistance insurance

There are several situations in which it is appreciated to have travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage.

Travel insurance cancellation coverage

• Supplementary coverage

  A travel insurance policy's cancellation coverage is supplementary coverage to the travel assistance insurance itself.

• Protection against cancellations

  It is a highly useful option for people who wish to be protected against a possible cancellation of their trip for a variety of reasons.

• Reimbursement guarantee

  Travel cancellation insurance guarantees reimbursement of any expenses related to a cancellation.

• Always covered

  Compensation if a trip is cancelled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, provided the cause of cancellation or interruption is included in the policy's general terms and conditions.

What does cancellation insurance include?

The scope of the coverage will depend on the insurance company. However, in broad terms and to give you an idea, these are some of the grounds provided by the companies in the sector for the reimbursement of cancellation costs:

• Medical reasons

  As long as it is not a preexisting illness, reasons related to your health may be covered by cancellation insurance.

• Official reasons

  Likewise, travel insurance considers the possibility that a person might have to cancel their trip because they are required to do so by a government authority on a date that coincides with their trip.

• Work-related reasons

  Termination of employment, signing a new employment contract, transferring to another workplace or a justifiable change of leave are all events that are usually covered by travel insurance with cancellation coverage.

• Family-related reasons

  Another possible reason for interrupting a trip is serious illness or the death of a family member.

• Extraordinary reasons

  Similarly, extraordinary circumstances, such as an accident in the home that requires urgent attention, are a compelling reason to cancel a trip.

• Other situations

  Additionally, travel insurance with cancellation coverage might include other situations such as the loss of documentation or the inability to travel as a result of a malfunction of the insured party’s vehicle. In any case, as already mentioned, the final scope of the policy will depend on what is stated in the general conditions.

   

  We hope that you now have a better idea of what is covered by travel insurance with these characteristics. By the way, did you know that Adeslas travel assistance insurance includes cancellation by the service provider and the possibility of taking out coverage for trip cancellation due to annulment? Thanks to this guarantee, the insured party has the right to be reimbursed provided that the conditions of the contract are met. Find out more!

Travel insurance exclusions

• Bad faith

  Acts of bad faith or intent on the part of the insured party.

• Voluntary cancellation

  Voluntary cancellation of the trip without a justifiable reason.

• Knowledge of improper conditions

  Knowledge of conditions or situations that might lead to the annulment of the trip before taking out the insurance. Such as, for example, suffering from a serious illness.

• Occurrence of predictable events

  The occurrence of predictable or known events. An example is an airline strike announced before the insurance was taken out.

Do you need travel insurance?

At Adeslas, we want you to worry only about choosing your destination because we'll take charge of

protecting you. If you are unsure about what travel insurance covers, our travel assistance insurance covers

the insured party, their personal belongings and other incidents that may happen during the trip.

Travel assistance insurance

Types of travel cancellation insurance

Each insurance company offers a different type of travel cancellation insurance.

View travel assistance insurance

• Direct or optional contracting

  At some companies you can contract cancellation insurance directly, while at others it is an optional cover.

• Different rates

  At insurance companies that offer cancellation insurance, you can choose from standard or basic to premium rates.

• Coverage scope

  The number of causes covered varies between different rates: while some insurance policies cover 20 causes, others include over 30.

• Compensation

  The amounts received for cancellation differ greatly depending on if the trip has begun or not, if it takes places within Spain, Europe or the rest of the world, etc.

Skiing is an exciting sport, but it can also be risky. Having a travel insurance policy with ski coverage is essential to ensuring your safety and peace of mind and to enjoying everything a ski resort has to offer.

What is ski travel insurance?

Travel insurance with ski coverage is a policy that covers the risks associated with doing these winter sports. It is not a conventional travel insurance policy, as it covers specific items such as mountain-side rescue, medical care in the event of an accident and the reimbursement of services not used, such as an unused ski pass.

These insurance policies are designed for the most common situations that may occur on the mountain, such as accidents, adverse weather conditions or loss of luggage. They also provide cover for mountain-side rescue expenses, which is essential if you have an accident while spending your day in the snow.

What does ski travel insurance cover?

We detail the main coverages of the optional guarantees you can add to the SegurCaixa Adeslas travel insurance if you practice skiing. It does not cover incidents that occur off-piste or while engaging in extreme activities.

• Medical and hospital expenses

  Activated in the event that the insured party has an accident or becomes seriously unwell while skiing. It will be valid from the centre where you are hospitalised.

• Crutch expenses

  Reimbursement of the cost of the crutches, whether purchased or rented, up to the established limit. 

• Slope descent expenses

  Covers the slope rescue service and transfer to the ski resort.

• Reimbursement of ski pass and loss of materials

  In the event of an accident or serious illness, unused ski passes, unattended pre-purchased classes, and damage or loss of rented or purchases ski materials are reimbursed..

• Ambulance expenses

  Covers ambulance transportation from the accommodation to the hospital.

Tips for skiing safely

• The importance of using the right equipment

  Using the right equipment is essential for avoiding injuries. Ensure you wear a helmet, protective goggles and thermal clothing to protect you from the cold. It is also important that your equipment is in good condition and adjusted to your size and level.

• Knowledge of the slopes and safety instructions

  Knowing the slopes is key to avoiding accidents. Always respect that instructions and signs and choose descents according to your level of experience. Avoid leaving the marked areas and pay attention to the information provided by the resort managers.

• Weather conditions

  Before heading out to the slopes, check the weather conditions. Bad weather, such as fog or intense snowfall, can increase the risk of accidents. If the conditions are not safe, it is best to wait or change your plans.

The loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a family can go through. On top of the emotional impact, there are several administrative procedures that need to be handled, which can feel overwhelming.

Knowing what to do when a relative passes away helps you navigate the initial steps with greater peace of mind. This guide is designed to ease the administrative burden following a death, clearly explaining the key procedures, documents, and decisions that need to be made.

1. Initial steps: What to do depending on where the death occurs

The immediate actions required depend on the location and circumstances of the death.

Death in a hospital or care home

When someone passes away in a hospital or care home, the facility itself usually arranges the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. This document confirms the cause of death and is required to register the death with the Civil Registry later on.

Additionally, staff can guide the family on the next steps and the paperwork needed to start making funeral arrangements.

Death at home

If the death occurs at home, you must contact emergency services or the family doctor (GP) so they can confirm the death and issue the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.

If you are unsure what to do when a family member passes away at home, try to stay calm and follow the healthcare professionals' instructions. They will determine the necessary procedures based on the situation.

Death in Special Circumstances: Abroad

If someone passes away outside Spain, the family should contact the relevant Spanish embassy or consulate. Necessary steps may include repatriating the body or ashes, legalising foreign documents with an apostille, and, where required, obtaining sworn translations of paperwork.

Having funeral insurance with international coverage can simplify these procedures, providing specialist support to coordinate with local authorities and funeral directors.

2. Civil Registry and Death Certificate: Essential Documentation

Registering the death with the Civil Registry allows you to obtain the official Death Certificate. This document is essential for numerous tasks, including applying for subsequent certificates, handling banking matters, managing inheritance, and notifying various public and private bodies.

3. Arranging the funeral and managing burial or cremation

One of the first decisions a family must make is arranging the funeral. This includes selecting a funeral director, choosing the venue, deciding between burial or cremation, and coordinating transportation.

Funeral services typically include the coffin or urn, preparation of the deceased, the service, use of the funeral parlour facilities, and other associated arrangements. According to a study by the OCU (Consumers and Users Organisation), the average cost is around €3,700, although in some cities it can exceed €6,000 depending on the location, type of ceremony, and services chosen.

 If there is a funeral insurance policy in place, such as Adeslas, the insurer can handle much of the organisation, reducing the burden on the family during their time of grief.

4. Checklist of administrative steps after a death

The main steps to take following the death of a relative include:

1.   Requesting the Certificate of Last Wills.

2.   Checking whether there is a valid will.

3.   Initiating the estate and inheritance process.

4.  Notifying public bodies and private organisations of the death.

Requesting the Certificate of Last Wills

The Certificate of Last Wills confirms whether the deceased executed a will and before which public notary it was registered. This document is required to proceed with any inheritance administration.

Managing the estate, wills, and declaration of heirs

Procedures involving the will and last wishes help establish the deceased's intentions and determine how their estate should be managed. If a valid will exists, the wishes outlined by the deceased are followed. If no will exists, a formal declaration of heirs will be necessary to determine who is legally entitled to inherit the assets.

5. What if the deceased had funeral insurance? 

Having funeral insurance provides specialist support to help manage the procedures surrounding a death. This allows the family to focus on their grief while the insurer handles much of the administrative and logistical burden.

Typically, the insurance policies cover funeral management, transportation, coffin, funeral parlour facilities, ceremony arrangements, psychological support, legal advice, and administrative assistance.

The key benefit of this coverage is reducing both the financial burden and the organisational pressure on the family at such a sensitive time.

6. Mandatory notifications to public bodies and private entities 

Following a death, several organisations must be informed to avoid administrative issues or financial discrepancies.

Deregistration with Social Security and survivors' pensions

Deregistering the deceased with Social Security is necessary to update official records and prevent overpayments. Additionally, eligible family members can apply for financial support, such as a bereavement or widow's pension.

Notifying banks and tax authorities

It is advisable to inform banking institutions promptly to manage the deceased's accounts correctly. You must also handle relevant tax obligations, such as settling Inheritance Tax and submitting the final income tax return where applicable.

Cancelling contracts and utility services

Services that may require cancellation or a transfer of ownership include:

• Electricity.
• Water.
• Gas.
• Phone and broadband.
• Subscriptions and other ongoing services.

7.Key deadlines after a death

Important timeframes to keep in mind include:

• Registering the death with the Civil Registry: Usually required within 24 to 48 hours.
• Certificate of Last Wills: Can be requested after 15 working days from the date of death.
• Notification to Social Security: Should be done as soon as possible.
• Applying for bereavement or survivors' pensions: Recommended to apply early to prevent delays.
• Inheritance and Gift Tax: Generally allows a 6-month period for settlement, with the option to request an extension.
• Bank notifications: Recommended within the first few days.

8. Summary: checklist of procedures after a death

If you are wondering what to do when a relative passes away, here are the main steps to follow in chronological order:

• Obtain the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.
• Register the death with the Civil Registry.
• Request the official Death Certificate.
• Arrange the funeral and contact the insurer if a policy exists.
• Request the Certificate of Last Wills.
• Check whether a valid will exists.
• Manage the estate, inheritance, and tax obligations.
• Notify Social Security, banks, and utility companies of the death.

Even though travel insurance is not mandatory for most countries, it is a good idea to take it out.

Why take out travel insurance?

• Access to healthcare

  Healthcare can be difficult to access or very expensive in many destinations.

• Repatriation

  Repatriation of an ill tourist on a medicalised aeroplane can be extremely costly.

• Unforeseen expenses

  If you wish to avoid unforeseen events, headaches and economic expenses that can amount to thousands of euros, you must have a clear idea of which countries require you to have travel insurance.

• More protection

  Look for information on which are the best insurance policies so you can benefit from the best possible protection.

Which countries require travel insurance?

At the moment, the only country where travel insurance is mandatory is Cuba, take note.

Travel insurance in Cuba: mandatory

According to the travel recommendations published by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, those travelling to Cuba must meet this essential requirement:

• Travel insurance for medical cover that covers health expenses resulting from COVID-19 infection and repatriation in the event of death is mandatory, regardless of the cause.
• This insurance cover must be issued by insurance entities that are recognised in Cuba.
• And the same applies for foreigners who have temporary residence in the country.

 One reason why it is so important to have medical insurance in Cuba is that the bill for medical care is usually very high and it has to be paid in advance. And it is important to be aware that Cuban authorities forbid foreigners from leaving the country while medical care debts remain unpaid. In short:

•  By taking out international travel insurance for Cuba, anyone travelling to the island can enjoy their time there without concern, knowing that their medical services are covered.

 What happens if I don’t have travel insurance when it is mandatory?

Now that you know which country requires travel insurance, take our advice. If you haven’t taken out travel insurance in advance, Cuban authorities could stop you from entering the country. Don’t risk it.

Countries where it is a good idea to take out travel insurance

There are other countries where, even though travel insurance isn’t required, it is highly recommended. We’re talking about the United States, China, Indonesia, Thailand and Turkey. Where healthcare is expensive.

United States

According to Unespa, the insurance overseer in Spain, the United States is one of the 

most expensive countries for accidents

 covered by travel insurance. To give you an idea, this is what medical care costs in the United States:

• Average accident: 925 euros.
• Extreme accident: 175,000 euros.
• Medical flight to repatriate a patient to Spain: 50,000 euros.

Remember: healthcare is neither universal nor free in the United States. And medical services and emergency rooms carry out checks before attending to a patient. That’s why it is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical care in the country.

In short, medical insurance is not mandatory for travelling to the United States. But if you take out travel insurance with good medical cover, you’ll sleep much better, knowing that your insurance company has your back.

China

Travel insurance isn’t required to enter this enormous Asian country. However, as far as medical care is concerned, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns:

• Healthcare in China is not free and medical bills can be high.
• Taking out travel insurance that includes very extensive medical, health and evacuation cover is highly recommended.
• Treatments usually need to be paid in advance to ensure you receive medical care. 

Indonesia

Indonesia is another example of a very expensive healthcare system. In this case, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns those travelling to this Asian country of the following:

• Having travel insurance that covers any hospital care required during your time in Indonesia and medical evacuation is highly recommended.
• We recommend that the policy taken out covers a minimum of 80,000 euros in medical expenses.

Thailand

In regard to Thailand, the situation is similar: medical care costs in this Asian country are extremely expensive. When travelling to Thailand, it is essential to bear in mind the following:

• Medical care is not denied to visitors in Thailand. However, payment for this service is required later.
• Healthcare centres are under no obligation to treat a foreigner if they are not properly covered by insurance.
• As such, medical insurance is strongly recommended when travelling to Thailand, with a policy that is as extensive as possible.

Turkey

And as far as Turkey is concerned, it is also a good idea to take out full travel insurance before travelling. The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends considering the following issues:

• The travel insurance must cover medical expenses in Turkey and repatriation to Spain.
• If you are going to be doing high-risk activities such as climbing, paragliding, scuba diving or hot air balloon rides, which are common in Turkey, it is a good idea to make sure that the policy covers these, among other things.. 

If you do not have travel insurance in Turkey, hospital costs, medical treatment and evacuation will need to be paid by the traveller, and these can be extremely high.

Do you need travel insurance?

At Adeslas, we want you to worry only about choosing your destination because we'll take charge of
protecting you. If you are unsure about what travel insurance covers, our travel assistance insurance covers
the insured party, their personal belongings and other incidents that may happen during the trip.

Travel assistance insurance

When should I take out travel insurance?

• Advance time

  Even though you can take out travel insurance any time before you leave, whether that’s after making your booking or just before you set out on your trip, bear in mind that if you wait until the last moment, you usually wouldn’t be able to benefit from the trip cancellation cover.

• Reasons to hire

  Planning a trip entails more than just booking your accommodation and transport. It also involves taking certain precautions as far as health is concerned, especially in certain destinations. Below, we reveal all you need to know about how and when to take out travel insurance.

  Travel insurance is essential when you need to travel far from home, enabling you to deal with any unforeseen circumstances that can make a holiday go pear-shaped. However, it isn’t just health concerns that we have to think about. There are all sorts of things that could arise, such as your flight being cancelled or your luggage getting lost. The comprehensive cover provided by an insurance policy when you’re travelling will give you the peace of mind and support you need to let you relax and enjoy your well-deserved break. 

When is it necessary to take out travel insurance?

It is always advisable to take out insurance so that you can travel with greater peace of mind. Nonetheless, there are certain situations in which it is more necessary.

• International travel

  Depending on what kind of trip you have planned, it may be essential or even compulsory. Healthcare abroad is very different to what we enjoy in Spain. Even in other European countries, public healthcare treatment may entail co-payment fees. With travel insurance, you’ll be covered for any accidents or illnesses that occur within the duration of your policy.

• Long stays

  The longer you stay away from home, the higher the likelihood that something unforeseen happens. Make the most of the things your policy covers you for to enjoy your trip to the full and remain worry-free.

How to choose the best travel insurance

If you are unsure about how to take out travel insurance, we delve into everything you need to take into consideration so that you can choose exactly what you need.

• Duration of the coverage

  Make sure you take out an insurance policy that guarantees protection from the day you leave until the date you return. Only then will you be able to receive travel assistance if your baggage is lost or delayed or receive a refund for your medical expenses.

• Local information

  Every destination is unique and being informed is key to travelling prepared. That’s why we suggest that before you leave, you find out all about recommended vaccinations, common illnesses in your place of travel, climate, etc. Only then will you be able to avoid any surprises on arrival. Also, other information such as contact telephone numbers and the address of the embassy or emergency services will help you act quickly in the event of an emergency. You can ask your insurer about these things. 

• Policy holder’s state of health

  Even though it is not medical insurance as such, these insurance policies include healthcare coverage to ensure you are fully protected when travelling. If you have a prior medical condition, you need to be aware that if you need medical attention for something you already have, this will not be covered as it is considered pre-existing.

Our travel assistance insurance

As you can see, there are several aspects that you need to know about. But don’t worry, Adeslas travel insurance will give you the peace of mind you are seeking on all your trips. What’s more, our specialists will help you deal with any enquiries regarding taking out travel insurance.

See travel assistance insurance

Travelling is a pleasure. It allows you to explore new destinations and discover all sorts of things from the culture to the food. Some studies also show that it increases happiness and improves our mood. But, unfortunately, there is a less pleasant side to it: mishaps. That’s why it is essential to take out a travel insurance policy. And we also need to know how to make a claim when travelling in the event of a mishap.

This is, undoubtedly, a highly important matter as travellers aren’t exempt from suffering some sort of mishap, such as a health issue, loss of luggage or the cancellation of a flight. As such, in this guide, we are going to explain the main mishaps that may occur when travelling and how to make a claim to SegurCaixa Adeslas. So, take note!

What is a travel claim and what are the different types?

In terms of what a travel claim is, this relates to a mishap covered by the policy that may cause harm or damage to the insured party travelling abroad. The most common mishaps that companies sort out through travel insurance:

• Health issues.

  This is no laughing matter: 6 out of every 10 travel insurance claims that insurers deal with are down to a health issue. That’s why it is essential to have a policy that, among other features, covers medical expenses, medications and hospitalisation at the destination.

• Repatriations

  Health issues abroad sometimes lead to serious illnesses or even the death of an individual. In these delicate situations, a travel insurance policy makes it possible to transfer a customer from another country to Spain. This way, the insured party or their family do not need to deal with the expense of a service that costs thousands of euros.

• Cancellations.

  The cancellation of a trip for personal reasons or because of another party is another common claim. This includes the cancellation of a flight or another transport service, an emergency surgical procedure, the death of a family member, initiating a job, etc. Provided that it is included in the policy, a cancellation is covered by a travel insurance policy.

• Loss of luggage.

  The loss or delay of a traveller’s luggage is another mishap that causes harm or damage to travellers. In the first case, a travel insurance policy compensates the insured parties provided that the transport entity is responsible for the loss of luggage. And this kind of policy can also help those financially impacted by their luggage arriving late at their destination.

• Other problems and issues

  When travelling abroad, it may be the case that a particular individuals needs to prolong their stay in the country, return to Spain earlier than planned or they may suffer a delay in a transportation service. All of these mishaps are covered by SegurCaixa Adeslas travel insurance policies.

• More information

  If you would like more information about these mishaps, all the details are provided in our special guide entitled 5 essential items to cover when travelling abroad. With this, you can read about how important it is to travel knowing that you are properly protected by your insurance policy.

  By the way: if you like to do recreational activities in winter outside Spain, we have a specific policy for ski lovers that covers expenses and reimbursements in the event of a mishap. This is another kind of travel mishap worth knowing about.

In view of the above, it is clear that taking out an insurance policy before travelling abroad is essential. But, what happens if we suffer a mishap when travelling abroad? If this happens to you abroad and you do not know what to do, the first thing we advise you to do is remain calm, as far as possible.

 And even though the steps to follow may vary depending on the type of mishap, the following recommendations will help you find a solution:

What to do in the event of a mishap when travelling

1. Get in touch immediately with SegurCaixa Adeslas

   If you have taken out a travel insurance policy, don’t wait: get in touch with us through the channels set up for that purpose and tell us what happened.

2. Disclose the mishap as quickly as possible.

   If the mishap is covered by the policy, our customer service personnel will tell you what information and documentation is needed to process the claim.

3. Follow the instructions of the customer service staff.

   Our staff will also tell you what you need to do or where you need to go at your destination, depending on the type of mishap, in order to be attended to.

How to make a claim when travelling

Knowing how to make a claim when travelling is vital so that we can help you and sort out the problem as quickly as possible. To do that, you need to understand the process and the claim timeframes, as well as the documentation needed.

Process and timeframes for making a claim when travelling

s we said before, it is essential that, if you suffer a mishap abroad, you quickly get in touch with SegurCaixa Adeslas and notify us of the mishap within the established timeframe.

• Contacting SegurCaixa Adeslas. Insured parties can call from anywhere in the world on the telephone number +34 91 745 32 80 (line operational 24 hours a day).
• Timeframe for making a claim. Remember: unless the policy provides a longer period, the timeframe for making a claim to an insurer is 7 days. This is established in Act 50/1980, of 8 October, on Insurance Contracts.

Documentation needed to make a claim when travelling

And to process a claim when travelling, we will ask you for the following information:

• Name of the insured party.
• Travel insurance policy number.
• Telephone number.
• The place where you are.
• The kind of assistance you need.

We will also need a series of documents or pieces of evidence to verify the mishap, speed up the claim process, cover the mishap and compensate or reimburse, depending on the mishap in question. The documents and pieces of evidence usually required include:

• Medical reports.
• Police reports.
• Invoices and receipts.
• Booking receipts or travel tickets.
• Written proof of incidents (such as the Property Irregularity Report - PIR).
• Photographs. 

We trust we have been able to help you understand how to make a claim when travelling. But, don’t forget that to be properly protected abroad, you need to take out a travel insurance policy that covers the main mishaps.

Are you planning a holiday beyond the Spanish borders or do you need to leave the country for a few days for other reasons? If so, it is of the utmost importance that you have the most comprehensive travel insurance possible

The most common incidents that insurers resolve through this type of insurance:

• Health problems and/or injuries due to accidents

  Situations related to illnesses or injuries resulting from accidents.

• Trip cancellation

  Official cancellation of a previously planned trip.

• Cancellation due to reasons beyond the traveler's control

  Trip suspension due to external circumstances or factors beyond the traveler's control, such as weather issues.

• Delays and other causes.

  It covers time delays and other various factors that may affect the trip.

Learn more about the most common incidents.

Protection outside of Spain

5 essential covers for travelling abroad

When we travel, we are certainly not immune to unwanted situations that can ruin our trip, cause us headaches and cost us a lot of money. That’s why it is vital to have an insurance policy that offers us the best protection

Medical assistance

As you may have noticed, health problems are the number one incident covered by travel insurance. For this reason, coverage for medical assistance is considered the most important in this type of policy. By taking out travel medical insurance, a user will benefit from the following guarantees, among others, during their time abroad:

• Medical, prescription or hospitalisation expenses.
• Advance payment of hospitalisation fees.
• Urgent dental expenses.
• Referral to a specialist doctor or medication.
• Remote medical consultation or assessment.
• Expenses for the travel and stay of a passenger accompanying the insured person who is hospitalised.

It is important to keep in mind that, in the case of needing medical assistance abroad, in some cases it is difficult to access the country’s public health system. And if you are able to do so, it is often very expensive.

If you get a third degree sprain, you break a leg or suffer from any cardiovascular or respiratory problem in another country, you will be grateful to have taken out travel insurance with medical assistance.

 Death and repatriation

Continuing with the essential covers in travel insurance for travelling abroad, in extreme situations it is possible that the insured person could suffer a serious illness or even pass away abroad. This guarantee includes the following services:

• Medical repatriation of the insured person.
• Return of minors and costs of return for accompanying persons.
• Repatriation of mortal remains.
• Person accompanying the mortal remains.
• Subsistence expenses of the person accompanying the mortal remains.
• Return of the persons accompanying the deceased.

Now, imagine that you travel to the United States, and while there you fracture your hip and need to be repatriated by plane. Do you know how much this service would cost? More than €50,000 according to the data provided by Unespa. A compelling reason to include this guarantee among the coverages of a travel insurance policy.

Trip cancellation

Likewise, the guarantee for the cancellation of a trip is another cover for travelling abroad that is a must-have in your insurance policy. Whether it is due to the traveller's own wishes, personal reasons or external causes, there are numerous reasons for the cancellation or annulment of a trip. Among them:

• An emergency surgical procedure.
• The death of a family member.
• The announcement of competitive examinations.
• A change in job status, either termination or starting in a new position.
• The cancellation of a flight, long-distance train service or scheduled boat transport.

Provided that the reason for the annulment or cancellation is included in the general conditions of the policy, this coverage will cover and indemnify us. It is therefore highly recommended that it be included in our travel assistance insurance.

Loss of luggage

Although some people travel light, others travel with many suitcases. Especially on long-distance trips, it is not strange to see travellers with a large suitcase, another smaller one and a backpack. And one of the greatest fears is that the service provider might lose all or some of our luggage.

Thanks to the lost luggage cover, a travel insurance policy is very useful as it includes these guarantees:

•  Loss of luggage. Compensation in the event of total or partial loss of luggage or personal effects that have been checked in on public transport, provided that said loss is the carrier’s responsibility.
• Delayed baggage. Financial assistance to purchase basic necessities in the event of a delay of more than 12 hours in receiving baggage checked in on public transport.

 Think about it… You’ve checked your bag onto the plan, you arrive at your destination and your luggage doesn’t appear on the conveyor belt. It has been lost or will arrive on another flight! To be covered against setbacks like this one, don’t forget to check that the loss of luggage is covered by your travel insurance policy for travelling abroad.

Extension of stay, early return or delayed travel

In addition to the aforementioned issues, other problems or setbacks can arise while abroad that may need to be attended to by our travel assistance insurance. For example:

• Extension of stay. After having been hospitalised for a risk covered by the policy, the insured person might need to extend their stay abroad and book accommodation in a hotel for a few days.
• Early return. Another unforeseen circumstance while abroad could be the obligation to return to the country of origin earlier than expected, as a result of the death of a close family member or the report of serious damage having occurred in the insured person’s home.
• Delayed travel. A plane, train or boat service can be delayed for more than 12 hours, with the resulting inconvenience for the passengers. 

If you have travel insurance that includes all these coverages while travelling abroad, you will be at ease knowing that your policy covers the most common incidents when visiting another country.

Do you need travel insurance?

At Adeslas, we want you to worry only about choosing your destination because we'll take charge of protecting you. If you are unsure about what travel insurance covers, our travel assistance insurance covers the insured party, their personal belongings and other incidents that may happen during the trip. 

Travel assistance insurance

When the insurance holder dies, there are many things that family members need to sort out as quickly as possible. Funeral insurance prevents this from further complicating things for loved ones in what is a delicate situation.

It is a product that is specifically designed to cover the expenses and paperwork related to a person’s death. If you are considering taking out funeral insurance, we explain below what it is, as well as what coverage is essential and how it is different to life insurance.

What is funeral insurance and what is it for?

Funeral insurance is an insurance policy that covers the expenses that families need to deal with in the event of a person’s death. Funeral insurance is a kind of insurance policy that covers the expenses that families need to deal with in the event of a loved one’s death. 

The purpose behind it is to ensure family members do not need to worry about the cost of the funeral service or deal with administrative procedures, such as requesting a death certificate or other certificates from the Civil Registry.

So, this insurance policy guarantees:

• Peace of mind for loved ones.
• Financial stability at a difficult time.
• Professional support for carrying out administrative procedures.

Which items are most commonly covered in funeral insurance?

• Full funeral service(includes coffin, flowers, funeral parlour, burial or cremation, etc.).
• National and international transfer
• National and international transfer of the mortal remains.
• Funeral car
• Funeral car for transfer to the cemetery.
• Documentation and managing
• Obtaining documentation and managing legal procedures (certificates, registry, etc.).
• Legal assistance
• Advice and management regarding legal and administrative procedures.
• Psychological care
• Psychological care for family members.

Is there any additional coverage?

Yes. With SegurCaixa, this may also include:

• Additional funeral services
• Additional funeral services to personalise it
• Digital fingerprint
• Digital fingerprint management.
• Transfer
• International transfer and repatriation of foreigners
• Compensation
• Compensation for study grants for children

What kinds of funeral insurance policies are available?

As an insurance company, we offer different kinds of funeral insurance policies with different coverages, as follows:

SegurCaixa Single Premium Funeral Cover

Designed for those aged over 60, this allows for a single payment to cover funeral costs, transfers, psychological and legal care. It offers peace of mind with no regular payments.

SegurCaixa Full Funeral Cover

Offers comprehensive coverage which includes funeral services, national and international transfers, psychological and legal care, and additional options such as digital fingerprint management. The price does not vary according to age.

SegurCaixa Plus Funeral Cover

In addition to the items covered in the full plan, this includes extended psychological care, international repatriation in journeys of up to 90 days and the option of including international transfer and repatriation of foreigners to their home country with the travel expenses of an accompanying person. Without increasing the price according to age, from 71 years of age, it also includes digital fingerprint management and the option to include additional services in the burial.

Differences between funeral insurance and life insurance

Funeral insurance

• Funeral insurance covers expenses and services following a death: funeral, transfer of mortal remains, legal and administrative procedures, psychological care, etc.
• Funeral insurance focusses on facilitating the procedures in the event of a death, whereas life insurance aims to ensure financial support.

Life insurance

• Life insurance provides a sum of money by way of financial compensation to the beneficiaries.
• Life insurance may also cover situations such as permanent incapacity.

In short, these are two different kinds of insurance policy and, in many cases, they go hand in hand.

The arrival of a dog or cat at home is always a joyful occasion. A new member of the family! However, having a pet involves looking after their well-being and health. To do that, there are two options: pay a veterinary retainer or take out The arrival of a dog or cat at home is always a joyful occasion. A new member of the family! However, having a pet involves looking after their well-being and health. To do that, there are two options: pay a veterinary retainer or take out The arrival of a dog or cat at home is always a joyful occasion. A new member of the family! However, having a pet involves looking after their well-being and health. To do that, there are two options: pay a veterinary retainer or take out 

The arrival of a dog or cat at home is always a joyful occasion. A new member of the family! However, having a pet involves looking after their well-being and health. To do that, there are two options: pay a veterinary retainer or take out pet insurance. 

If you are unfamiliar with these, we explain the differences between the two options in this guide. This way, you can choose whichever one best suits your needs and those of your dog or cat. Keep reading!

What is a retainer and what does it cover?

Conditions

A retainer, or health plan, is a service that some veterinary clinics offer. And it consists of paying regular or annual fees that allow you to access veterinary services such as:

• Nutritional advice.
• Ordinary consultations (not including treatments).
• Nail cutting.
• Wound treatment (with and without a dressing).
• Internal deworming.
• Stool culture.
• Check-ups.
• Leishmania test.
• Vaccinations (generally, rabies vaccine and polyvalent vaccine).

Benefits

A retainer also allows you to enjoy discounts on other services and treatments such as blood tests, surgeries, ultrasounds, sterilisations, endoscopies, medication, other vaccines, x-rays, emergencies, etc.

The prices, services, treatments and discounts vary from one veterinary clinic to another. That’s why it is a good idea to find out about different medical retainers and compare them before starting to pay for a health plan for your pet.

What is veterinary insurance and what does it include?

Veterinary insurance is a policy taken out with an insurance company which, as with retainers, includes a series of services and treatments. However, unlike retainers, pet insurance gives dog and cat owners added value as it includes civil liability insurance.

• Also included in SegurCaixa Adeslas home insurance policies, the civil liability insurance for pets covers personal and material damage caused by a dog or cat to third parties, as well as the legal costs associated with the court proceedings in which a pet may be involved.
• Until recently, civil liability insurance was only compulsory for potentially dangerous dogs (PPP).
• The law passed in 2023 did not regulate the obligatory nature of Civil Liability insurance for all dogs, so for the time being the previous law is still in force, which requires Potentially Dangerous Dog (PPP) owners to hold civil liability insurance, with the exception of some Autonomous Communities such as Madrid or the Basque Country, which do require it for all dogs. 

Imagine the situation: your dog accidentally gets free from their lead and runs in front of a cyclist in a park. And causes damage to the cyclist and their bicycle. Now:

• Having taken out civil liability insurance for dogs, you’ll have more peace of mind knowing that the company will take responsibility for paying the cyclist’s medical expenses and compensating the damage caused to their bicycle.
• The insurance company will also provide legal assistance if the cyclist decides to sue you and it will pay the trial costs in the event that it reaches that point.

Main differences between a veterinary retainer and pet insurance

Civil Liability

So, the first difference between a retainer and pet insurance is that the latter, through the civil liability coverage, covers damages that your pet may cause to third parties. And through this guarantee, in the case of dogs, it is able to comply with the provisions of the Animal Welfare Law, avoiding penalties.

Complete Scheme

Our pet insurance Complete Scheme includes the following provisions and services that are not included in veterinary retainers:

• Civil liability. As we mentioned above, this guarantee is compulsory in insurance for dogs. And it covers up to €200,000 capital.
• Death due to accident. Our health insurance for dogs and cats also covers up to €1,000 capital if the animal dies due to an accident (collision with a vehicle, fight with other animals, ingestion of foreign bodies etc.).
• Theft. And it also includes up to €800 capital if the pet is stolen.
• Death due to illness. Up to €1,000 capital (with a 6-month waiting period).
• Access to a broad veterinary team. Unlike a retainer, our pet insurance allows you to access over 400 veterinary clinics spread over the country.

The Complete Scheme also includes free visits and consultations, digital and telephone veterinary care, free rabies vaccine (except official fees), 24-hour veterinary emergencies and reduced prices for other services.

Without a waiting period

All this without a waiting period. This means that the insurance coverage is applied from the effective date specified in the policy’s general terms and conditions, and there is no set time period before which you can be covered by a guarantee.

Broad differences

With the following table you can see at a glance what the differences are between a veterinary retainer and pet insurance:

Which is the best option for you and your pet?

The choice between a veterinary retainer and pet insurance will depend on your circumstances and the needs of your dog or cat.

Basic care

If are you content with basic care and routine visits to the vet, a retainer may be enough to cover ordinary consultations, essential vaccinations and deworming. However, according to the Animal Welfare Law, in future, civil liability insurance will be required for all dogs and a retainer does not provide that coverage.

More coverage

If you want to be better protected, pet insurance is the best option. Especially if you have a dog. Remember: according to the Animal Welfare Law, dog owners must take out civil liability insurance that covers personal and material damage that the pet may cause to third parties.

The best possible care

Also, an insurance policy covers your pet in the event of theft, illness or accident. And it guarantees that your dog or cat always receives the best care no matter where you are. You choose the veterinary centre!

A much more comprehensive insurance

In short, even though veterinary retainers are useful and include many services and treatments, pet insurance is a much more comprehensive option. And in regard to dogs, it is compulsory. Don't forget!