Many of us dream of far-flung trips to the magical, mesmerising locations we see on our Instagram screens or in travel magazines. It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, visiting the same, familiar spots year after year and embarking on your dream trip can feel daunting.

Here at Insurance Choice, we don’t want anything holding you back – we understand how rewarding the trip of a lifetime can be. Travelling the world is a fantastic way to expand your horizons, experiencing new cultures, cuisines and environments, while leaving headaches behind at home.

A bucket list trip is by no means a regular holiday; you may be planning on travelling for a longer period of time or to a long-haul location. And that means taking extra special care of yourself while you’re away, especially if you’re travelling with a medical condition.

We’re specialists in arranging non-standard travel insurance, tailored to your individual needs and budget – you’ll be in safe hands.
 

How do I plan a bucket list trip?

A big vacation abroad requires planning. It’s an expensive commitment, so it’s important to ensure you’re fully prepared. You want straightforward cover; without quality insurance, should you get sick or injured overseas, you could find yourself saddled with a hefty hospital bill.

Something as simple as a suitcase gone awry can cause unnecessary stress.

Travelling in an unfamiliar environment may make you more vulnerable to theft or fraud, as tourists are known to carry more cash and valuables on them, and may be less ‘on their guard’. You’ll likely be partaking in activities you wouldn’t normally do, such as water sports or cruising, which adds another layer of risk.

There’s no reason you shouldn’t let loose and enjoy yourself on a bucket list trip – one you’ve worked hard to afford. That’s why it’s vital to protect yourself with reliable non-standard travel insurance.
 

The ultimate holiday checklist

• Carefully consider your destination

Whether you’re travelling solo or with family/friends, take time to evaluate your dream bucket list destinations. Do you want to venture somewhere warm or cold? East or West?
 

• Remember the weather

Pack your suitcase while keeping your destination’s climate in mind – if you’re going to Egypt, you’ll need plenty of sun cream and shady hats, but if you’re off to Antarctica you’ll need specialist winter clothing and equipment!
 

• Be security-conscious

Keep your passport, important documents and travel money in a safe, if possible, or in as secure a location as possible – don’t get complacent.
 

• Take care of your health

If you have a pre-existing condition or know you’re prone to a specific medical issue, try to choose somewhere with a hospitable climate. Make sure you and fellow travellers get the necessary jabs, should they be required.
 

• Plan, plan, plan

Think about the sights you want to see, where you’ll be staying and how you’ll be getting around. Knowing how you’ll get from point A to B keeps everyone happy and relaxed.
 

• Get covered!

Make sure you purchase non-standard travel insurance you can depend on, tailoring the package to your specific trip and requirements
 

What places should be on my bucket list?

We’ve selected some of the best worldwide trips to tick off your bucket list, so don’t wait, take a look, then get packing!
 

Ultimate USA road trip

A grand road trip through the US of A should feature on any bucket list. A vast, fascinating country made up of a diverse array of landscapes and cultures, as you drive, you’ll take in rugged stretches of natural beauty, small towns, deserts, coastlines, cities and so much more.

Stop off at New York, an electric, culturally rich melting pot of people, sights and sounds – and, of course, delicious food. Wander through Central Park to experience urban wildlife in action, or take in the breath-taking history of the iconic Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge.

Don’t miss the Painted Ladies and foodie heaven of San Francisco, or the amazing coastal drive across California, to the land of Hollywood glamour, Los Angeles. Go rafting in the stunning Grand Canyon National Park and see sights like no other, as you drift through its wild, dramatic scenery.

If you want to go off the beaten track, the Deep South is worthy of its own dedicated road trip, taking in the rich tapestry of frontier history, bayous and Southern architecture, not forgetting to sample the Bourbon ribs and whisky on the way! Get into the spirit of things in the ‘Big Easy’, New Orleans, soaking up the vibrant culinary and music scenes.
 

Japan, North to South

If you’re looking for a complete and utter culture shock, Japan is for you. Almost beyond description, the Land of the Rising Sun offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modernity which borders on sci-fi.

It can be nerve-wracking, travelling so far afield, but once you’ve secured trustworthy non-standard travel insurance, a holiday in Japan is an incomparable, highly worthwhile experience.

The bullet train makes the other-worldly sprawl of Japan easily accessible. We recommend starting way up North, on Hokkaido, a magical, sparsely populated island full of delights such as inviting hot springs, primeval woodland, vivid caldera lakes and world-renowned ski resorts like Niseko – if you love the white stuff, the powdery slopes here are a dream.

Brave the streets of Tokyo, a sea of neon lights and characterful city wards, such as lively Shinjuku, quaint Yanaka and bustling Akihabara – every shopper’s heaven.

Sample steaming bowls of ramen, Katsu curries and fresh sushi, before heading to Kyoto. Here in this atmospheric city, lose yourself in old Japan, taking in the beauty of ancient temples such as Kinkaku-ji, as well as traditional geisha dress and teahouses.

Finish your tour in Okinawa, a tropical island paradise known as the ‘Hawaii of Japan’, and recline on white sandy beaches with crystal clear turquoise waters.
 

European interrailing adventure

Most of us tend to visit European hotspots in dribs and drabs, never fully immersing ourselves in the rich culture and geography of the continent. An interrailing holiday is a great way to turn a fun trip abroad into the vacation of a lifetime – and it’s not just for students!

You can travel far and wide across Europe’s stunning landscapes, through rural countryside and lively cities, past shimmering lakes, rugged coastlines, dense forests and more.

The risk of theft attached to interrailing may cause concern, but as long as you’re covered with quality non-standard travel insurance, you can travel with peace of mind. Interrailing gives travellers more freedom of movement, plus it’s relatively quick and affordable and ideal for those who dislike flying.

Once you’ve sorted your interrail pass, kick off in London, heading to the characterful streets of Paris. Any bucket list should include visits to world-famous museums such as the Louvre, as well as the iconic Eiffel Tower and Jardin du Luxembourg.

Make sure to treat yourself to a freshly baked delicacy at a Parisian patisserie, before moving on to vibrant Barcelona, the coastal Spanish city.

Here, you’ll find a bustling mix of cosmopolitan modernity and traditional grandeur. Marvel at the city’s intricate Gaudi architecture, and indulge in the fresh seafood and fine wines on offer at the local tapas bars.

Travel along the Ligurian coast and visit Rome, Italy’s capital, a city full of romance and historic drama. History lovers will enjoy a trip to haunting Palatine Hill, with its ancient ruins, expansive views and fragrant pines.

Once you’ve ticked off must-sees such as the colosseum, Vatican and pantheon, gorge on Italy’s world-famous cuisine – you can’t beat freshly made pizza and pasta. Next stop, who knows?
 

Exploring Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Set in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, this World Heritage site tends to feature on everyone’s dream bucket list, and for good reason. A whopping 2000km of coastline, there are so many ways to explore this phenomenal ecosystem.

Boasting the largest coral reef in the world, it’s home to more than 3,000 coral cays and reef systems, as well as diverse marine life – it’s clear why it’s one of the seven wonders of the natural world.

An abundance of scenic tropical islands and golden beaches make picture perfect boltholes, perfect for complete seclusion and serenity – many of the islands are private, and are only open to a limited number of guests.

Some of the best ways to enjoy this piece of paradise include scuba diving, snorkelling and glass-bottomed boat tours. Nature lovers can go whale watching or even swim with dolphins, should they wish.

Daredevils can enjoy helicopter or aircraft tours, as well as semi-submersibles and sailing.  Of course, there are always risks related to such outdoor pursuits, so be safe and make sure you’re covered by adequate non-standard travel insurance.

For a cosmopolitan twist on white sands and azure ocean, travellers can head to the Gold Coast, where roughly 52km of spotless shores are enjoyed by surfers and city-dwellers alike – the sunsets are out of this world. The Gold Coast is also home to Lamington National Park, another World Heritage site, ideal for bushwalking.
 

The ancient wonder of Egypt and Jordan

Want a wealth of ancient historic intrigue? Venture to the Middle East, travelling from Egypt to Jordan.

Start in Cairo, one of the world’s most ancient cities, where lively hubbub and colourful sights abound. Make your way to Khan Al Khalili, a quirky hotchpotch of shops and stalls, then go on to the Egyptian Museum, home to a globally celebrated collection of ancient artefacts.

Here, visitors can view treasures formerly owned by pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and magnificent antique jewellery, among other relics of the past.

The Pyramids of Giza are the only surviving wonder of the ancient world – a must-see for tourists visiting Egypt. Visit sites such as the Sphinx, the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Khafre, and witness the might of Ancient Egypt.

Luxor, situated on the East bank of the Nile, amidst ancient Theban relics, is an intriguing, quasi-mystical preservation of Egypt’s past. From here, adventurers can explore wonders such as the temples of Luxor and Karnak, as well as the majestic Valley of the Kings and Tombs of the Nobles.

Once you travel over to Jordan, head to Petra, the ‘lost city’, another celebrated heritage site. Carved out of stone, tombs such as the Treasury memorialise the intricacy of ancient craftsmanship, as does the High Place of Sacrifice, formerly a site of worship.

Venture on to the Dead Sea’s northeast coastline, dotted with beautiful resorts, and enjoy luxury spa treatments – the minerals and salts of the Dead Sea are world-renowned for their powerful properties.
 

Lesser known hotspots

Sometimes it’s fun to venture off the beaten track. As long as you’re covered with quality non-standard travel insurance and plan carefully, a less conventional holiday abroad can be an unforgettable experience.

Have a look at our favourite hidden spots:
 

• Aero Island, Denmark

While Copenhagen is a tourist mecca, Aero Island is pure magical escapism, with fewer crowds. Tour fairy-tale castles such as Egeskov, and stroll past the beautiful, brightly coloured beach houses nestled beside Erikshale beach. Polish off the day with a tasty Danish pastry.
 

• Lofoten Islands, Norway

Get right off the beaten track and head North of the Arctic Circle, to the Lofoten Islands. Here, visitors can rent a secluded fisherman’s cottage and enjoy some quiet time, amidst crystalline, unspoilt nature, with an abundance of fresh fish.
 

• Bocas Del Toro, Panama

If you want white sands and coral reefs, but don’t want the crowds, this stunning archipelago is for you. Explore tropical rainforests or relax on often empty beaches, eating the catch of the day and feeling as if you’ve been let in on a fantastic secret.
 

Enjoying the holiday of a lifetime

Bucket list trips don’t come cheap – many of us save and plan for years beforehand. As tempting as it may be to take a risk or go with the flow, it’s worth remembering: you can never account for every possible risk or scenario.

That’s why securing non-standard travel insurance is considered so essential.
Look for cover that includes:
 

• Long stay travel insurance
• Increased cancellation cover up to £100,000
• Personal possession, baggage and money cover
• Cover for pre-existing medical conditions
• Annual and single trip cover

You may need to add some of our optional extras, but that’s no problem: here at Insurance Choice, finding a policy to suit your individual needs and budget is straightforward. We know that every traveller and trip is unique – we’re travel insurance specialists with a wealth of experience. 

Make sure you’re protected and get a quote today.