You may not know it but you get free travel insurance if you pay for your air tickets or package tour with your credit card.

But that does not mean you should forgo buying a plan from an insurer, as the free benefits with credit card cover are often not comprehensive. They also vary with the type of card used, and terrorism is usually excluded.

Maybank said: 'We encourage travellers to purchase travel insurance as well, instead of relying solely on the credit card's insurance. A travel insurance policy is more comprehensive and can cover terrorism as well.'

The main benefits from Citibank, DBS Bank, Maybank and United Overseas Bank (UOB) cards cover accidental death and total permanent disability.

For instance, all DBS personal credit cards, except the Treasures Black Elite, provide free coverage in the event of death and permanent disability up to $1 million. But this is valid only if the events occur during the flight.

The Treasures Black Elite coverage extends to overseas accidents that occur on the ground, and travel inconveniences such as travel and baggage delays, loss of luggage, and overseas medical expenses due to accidents.

Citibank's Travel Protect coverage includes accidental death and total permanent disability of $50,000 and overseas medical costs up to $5,000. An excess of $50 applies.

UOB Visa Signature customers get benefits that include connecting flight delay reimbursements, among other features.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on December 07, 2008.