Whether you're journeying across the Caribbean or heading overseas, a little preparation can make a big difference when the unexpected happens. Before you zip up your suitcase, make sure these five essentials are on your packing checklist:
1. Important medical information
Keep a list of any medications you take, allergies, medical conditions, and emergency contacts. Store a copy on your phone and carry a printed version in your wallet or carry-on bag. Consider downloading and utilizing the World Health Organization’s Travel Checklist.
2. Important trip documents
Bring your passport, identification, itinerary, and insurance information — and keep digital and printed copies in a separate location. Having backups can save valuable time if documents are lost or stolen.
Don’t forget to submit your itinerary 10 days before your trip to MASA Assist online portal!* Include your name, your MASA Assist membership number, your destination(s), and date of departure & return.
3. Fully charged mobile device
Your phone is often your lifeline while away from home. Pack your charger, power bank, and any necessary adapters to ensure you can stay connected and access important information when needed.
4. Local emergency and healthcare contacts
Before you leave home, save the phone numbers for local emergency services, nearby hospitals, your accommodation, and key contacts at your destination. A few minutes of preparation can help you respond quickly in an emergency.
5. Your MASA Assist membership information
Unexpected medical emergencies can happen anywhere. As a MASA Assist member, you have access to valuable benefits that can help when you need them most, including protection from out-of-pocket costs for emergency medical transportation, repatriation assistance, minor and/or pet return transportation, worldwide protection, and much more. Be sure to bring along with your membership card or download the MASA Global mobile app (iOS and Android) to keep your membership information readily available.
Why preparation matters
Imagine you're traveling from Trinidad to Barbados for a long weekend. During a sightseeing excursion, you slip and injure your ankle, requiring medical attention. Because you packed a list of your medications and medical history, healthcare providers can quickly understand your needs. Your phone contains saved emergency contacts and the location of the nearest hospital, helping you get assistance without delay.
If your wallet was misplaced during the trip, having digital copies of your passport and travel documents could make replacing them much easier. And with your MASA Assist membership information readily available, you can quickly access the benefits and support available to you during a stressful situation.
Journey with confidence
No one plans for an emergency, but being prepared can provide peace of mind wherever the road takes you. With the right essentials packed and your MASA Assist membership by your side, you can focus on enjoying your journey knowing help is available when you need it.
To learn more about your MASA Assist membership benefits or to review your coverage, visit the member portal.
*If notice is not provided ten (10) days prior to travel, or as soon as reasonably possible if Effective Date of coverage is within such ten (10) days of travel, MASA shall only be liable to Member for no more than $20,000 of Member’s Out-of-Pocket Expenses for Benefits that have Worldwide coverage, marked with the number four (4), next to the Benefit name.