Our cooperating travel agencies normally offer optional "trip" or "travel" insurance that helps individuals protect their investment in a tour. A basic policy provides refunds in case personal emergency--not a simple change in plans--forces a tour member to cancel. More elaborate policies address trip delays and interruptions, loss or delay of baggage, and emergency medical expenses. Costs range from $50 to $250. Some travelers are careful to pay travel agencies with credit cards in case of a dispute. Airlines can be difficult about refunds even when they cancel flights.

In order to avoid unnecessary expenses students should make sure their medical coverage is adequate. Because regular Student Health insurance at Rutgers covers the U.S., Canada, and Mexico only, the university's Office of Risk Management offers students Health Select Overseas Insurance, which covers any injury or illness up to $100,000, with no deductible, for $28. If you are comfortable relying on insurance you may have through your employer or family, you may waive access to this plan. Further information is available at http://riskmanagement.rutgers.edu/students.html.

All Rutgers students, whether enrolled for credit or not, must complete the Medical Insurance Waiver, a form that permits them either to sign up for this insurance or to decline it.