Host: Steven Gould (Founder & Chief Innovation Officer, TARC) Guests: Kathy Santos (Business Development Manager, TARC), Tim (Allianz), Carlos (TravelSafe)
This week on TARC Talk, we’re joined by Tim from Allianz and Carlos from TravelSafe to discuss one of the most important topics for travel advisors—travel protection! Host Steven Gould and Kathy Santos from TARC break down the difference between travel insurance and trip protection, why offering coverage positions you as a hero for your clients, and how it protects your own business from liability. Plus, we explore why third-party insurance often beats supplier coverage, what medical assistance services really include, and how to handle claims without getting stuck in the middle. If you’ve ever had a client ask “do I really need this?”—this episode is for you!
⏱️ In This Episode:
Time
Topic
0:08 – 0:43
The critical importance of travel protection for advisors and their clients
1:02 – 1:36
Differentiating travel insurance from trip protection—why comprehensive coverage matters beyond medical issues
1:38 – 2:03
Protecting the travel advisor – offering insurance avoids E&O liability and positions you as a hero for clients
3:55 – 4:43
Medical and assistance services – global 911, medical evacuation, guaranteed hospital payments
4:00 – 4:23, 50:18 – 50:28
Supplier vs. third-party insurance – third-party offers better trip interruption benefits (up to 150% of insured amount)
38:06 – 38:55
Post-departure benefits – baggage, delays, medical emergencies (costs thousands out-of-pocket without protection)
42:25 – 43:30
Claims process – advisors provide documentation; clients work directly with insurer to expedite claims
🎯 Key Takeaways:
Protect Yourself and Your Clients: Offering travel insurance not only protects your clients but also shields you from liability issues (E&O). It positions you as a trusted advisor who looks out for their best interests.
Supplier vs. Third-Party Insurance: Supplier insurance is often restrictive. Third-party insurance provides better trip interruption benefits—sometimes up to 150% of the insured amount—giving clients more comprehensive coverage.
Medical Assistance Matters: Insurance provides critical global 911 services, including medical evacuation and guaranteed hospital payments. Without it, clients could face thousands in out-of-pocket expenses.
Know the Claims Process: Advisors should provide documentation but let clients work directly with insurers to expedite claims. Stay involved only as needed.
Post-Departure Coverage is Essential: Baggage delays, lost luggage, and medical emergencies happen. Insurance ensures clients aren’t left with unexpected costs after departure.
📋 Resources Mentioned:
Resource
Description
Allianz
Travel insurance provider (represented by Tim)
TravelSafe
Travel protection provider (represented by Carlos)
