[Smart Living@Kenneth] Self-drive adventures: Navigate uncharted roads with confidence!

2024-07-03

5 Mins Read

Qualifications for self-driving tours | Key considerations for self-driving tours
Considerations when selecting travel insurance | How AXA SmartTraveller Plus safeguards your trip

In recent years, many travelers have embraced self-driving adventures as their preferred mode of exploration abroad. Whether it's cruising through the scenic landscapes of Okinawa, Jeju, or the vast Australian outback, it's evident that more and more Hongkongers are hitting the road behind the wheel. Self-driving offers a sense of freedom and adventure, allowing us to chart our own course through unfamiliar territories.

While the journey promises breathtaking views and thrilling experiences, it also comes with its fair share of challenges and uncertainties. This is where reliable travel insurance becomes invaluable. Allow me, Kenneth, Chief General Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau, to delve with you into the essentials of self-driving tours and the precautions you should take along the way.

Qualifications for self-driving tours

Valid driver's license: Ensure you possess a valid driver's license recognised in the country or region you intend to visit.
Age requirements: Be aware of any age restrictions imposed by car rental companies, typically requiring drivers to be 21 years or older.
Credit card: Most car rental agencies will request a valid credit card for payment and deposit purposes.
Insurance mandates: Most destinations may necessitate the purchase of local mandatory liability insurance or additional coverage for your rented vehicle.

Key considerations for self-driving tours

Familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations: Before hitting the road, it's essential to grasp the traffic rules and road signages of your destination. Take note, for instance, that South Korea operates on the left-hand drive system, unlike Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia. Novice drivers, in particular, should exercise extra caution.
Ensure your vehicle's roadworthiness: Prior to embarking on your journey, conduct a thorough check of your vehicle's vital components, such as tires, lights, engine oil, and coolant levels, to preempt any potential issues enroute. It's advisable to inspect the vehicle body for any existing scratches or damage and promptly report them to the rental company.
Drive prudently: Safe driving practices are paramount when behind the wheel. Adherence to traffic regulations, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and acclimating to local driving customs are crucial measures for ensuring the safety of both yourself and fellow road users. For instance, in Japan, using mobile phones or hands-free devices while driving is strictly prohibited.
Stay connected: Throughout your self-driving excursion, it's imperative to have your mobile phone readily accessible. Store the contact details of emergency contacts in your device to swiftly reach out in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Vehicle insurance: Confirm that your rental car is adequately insured, encompassing third-party liability, vehicle damage, and accidental medical coverage, to effectively address potential mishaps on the road.

Planning your next adventure?

AXA SmartTraveller Plus has you covered every step of the way.

Considerations when selecting travel insurance for self-driving tours

Self-driving tour protection: Ensure that your chosen travel insurance plan includes coverage relevant to car rental and self-driving. This should encompass personal accident and medical expense protection, personal liability coverage, as well as any additional safeguards for your purchased motor insurance.
Car rental protection coverage: Understand the specifics of the protection provided under the car rental coverage in your travel insurance. For instance, with AXA SmartTraveller Plus, you will be covered for the motor insurance policy’s excess or deductibles incurred by the insured person in the event of a collision while driving the rental vehicle or if the rental vehicle is stolen or parking damaged during the journey. Additionally, if the insured person (who is also the driver) is hospitalised overseas due to accidental injury or contracts sickness during the journey and is unable to return the rental vehicle, AXA will compensate for the reasonable cost incurred in returning the rental vehicle to the nearest hire depot.
Medical coverage and overseas emergency assistance: Ensure that your travel insurance offers sufficient medical coverage to address accidental injuries and first aid requirements during self-driving tours. Additionally, check if the insurance provider offers emergency assistance services, including medical evacuation, repatriation to Hong Kong for treatment and the repatriation of remains, in order to handle potential emergencies. For instance, with AXA SmartTraveller Plus, it provides comprehensive medical coverage of up to HKD 1 million. In situations where local medical facilities are inadequate, or if no medical services are available, and evacuation is required due to a medical condition, you will also be provided compensation for related expenses, including air ambulance transport to a suitable hospital or medical facility.
Premiums and coverage: Compare the premiums and coverage provided by different insurance companies to ensure that the plan you select aligns with your requirements and budget. Some travel insurance policies may offer lesser coverage for car accidents during self-driving tours compared to public transportation incidents. Opting for AXA SmartTraveller Plus can mitigate such issues, as it provides comprehensive medical coverage of up to HKD 1 million and personal accident protection of up to HKD 1 million, whether you are involved in an accident during a self-driving tour or while using public transportation.

Planning your next adventure?

AXA SmartTraveller Plus has you covered every step of the way.

How does AXA SmartTraveller Plus keep you protected?

Self-driving tour protection: If you rent a car for self-driving during the journey and the rental vehicle is damaged due to a collision or stolen, you will be covered for the motor insurance policy’s excess or deductible. Plus, if you end up needing hospitalisation, we will also bear the cost of returning the rental vehicle to the nearest hire depot.
No need to worry about medical expenses: Our protection covers medical expenses incurred due to illness or accidental injury overseas, as well as follow-up treatment within 3 months after returning to Hong Kong.
Introducing our newly added service: This feature is particularly beneficial for insureds of our annual cover plan when travelling to selected overseas destinations in Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Philippines. It offers free virtual medical consultation and covers costs for medicine delivery to your door twice per policy year.
Assurance for long and short trips: Whether you are embarking on a single trip lasting up to 360 days or multiple trips within a year, each no longer than 90 days, our comprehensive coverages ensure that you have adequate protection.
Safeguarding personal belongings: Accidental loss of personal items can be frustrating. That’s why our coverage extends to provide protection for baggage, clothing, wallet, documents, camera, mobile phone, watch, laptop computer, and more, providing you with peace of mind.
24-hour digital platform travel assistant: Download the Emma by AXA mobile app to access policy details anytime, anywhere. In the event of an accident, easily navigate the claims process through Emma by AXA. Our Emma chatbot provides 24/7 assistance, promptly addressing inquiries about insurance coverage, claims, Mainland China hospital list and overseas emergency assistance hotlines.

Planning your next adventure?

AXA SmartTraveller Plus has you covered every step of the way.

After reading the advice, you must be eager to start a self-driving tour, exploring new destinations with your loved ones and experiencing an incomparable journey. However, it is crucial not to overlook the challenges and risks that may arise along the way. Obtaining comprehensive protection will be the key to ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

AXA SmartTraveller Plus provides you with comprehensive protection, empowering you to explore and enjoy your journey with confidence, wherever you go. So, pack your bags, rev up your engine, embark on your self-driving journey, and create unforgettable memories together!

The above content is reviewed by Mr Kenneth Lai - Chief General Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau.

The plan is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the relevant policy contract. AXA reserves the final right to approve any application. For detailed terms, conditions and exclusions of the plan, please refer to the relevant policy contract.

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