The proliferation of exotic destinations and popularity of journeys off the beaten track represents all sorts of opportunities for excitement and adventure. Not surprisingly, as these kinds of trips increase in originality, the risks inherent in such travel increases. However, with the inclusion of buying both quality and cheap travel insurance when more intrepid travellers plan their holidays, these risks can be easily decreased and managed, and the trekkers can truly be free to enjoy the journey, and not just the destination.

How to make exotic travel work for you

Lately it has become more and more possible to visit further flung corners of the globe. More global airlines and carriers have made travel more plentiful and cheap, and communication has improved to let us take the time off for longer periods of time. Virgin Atlantic, of whom the founder is extremely eco concious, has made countless investments into renewable energy sources, also loves to travel. As a result, more remote destinations have become within the reach of more of us. Attractive for their distance and difference, these locations also have their fair share of risks. Looking at some of these around the world recently, whether it be economic crisis, political instability, or climate shocks, it is great to know that travel insurance is there to cover the tourist should cancellation be called into play.

The kind of travel insurance policy available has also become tailored to the intrepid traveller's needs. Annual insurance can be called into play for multiple trips, should the travel bug bite hard.

Extended stay coverage can be obtained from some insurers. This is ideal for the backpacker or gap-year traveller. It is also a good idea to take out insurance with your domestic insurer at this time covering your household contents whilst away for a prolonged period of time, or to make plans to have someone housesit your home, if applicable.

Backpackers insurance can be taken out however on a stand-alone basis. This has become a specialised policy over the last few years. Advantages of this include extended cover for up to eighteen months, budget options, cover for repayment of student loan, inclusive sports coverage, with options for extreme sports, and a 24/7 365 hotline for worldwide assistance. It is available for any of the zones around the world. The great thing is that it is just called a Backpacker's policy, as they say, how you carry your luggage does exclude you from its benefits.

The ins and outs of travel insurance for extreme sports

Extreme sports and activities such as bungee jumping, hot air balloon safaris, and motorcycling and water sports are particularly attractive components of intrepid travel. All these can be included in special clauses of your travel insurance.

Winter sports, for those long-stay winter holidaymakers, can also be covered. Specialist policies are available for winter sports holidays. These can cover items such as the increased risk of personal accident and medical expenses, piste closure, and ski equipment. Personal liability insurance may be an essential option to take out, for protection in case you injure someone else whilst skiing or snowboarding. Special cover for off-piste, bobsledding or ski-jumping may also be available.