Critical Benefits That Travel Insurance Must Have

Posted on: Sep 27, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Critical Benefits That Travel Insurance Must Have

Published on September 27, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes

The pandemic brought the entire world to a stall a couple of years ago. Making it impossible for people to travel and indulge in other recreational activities. However, things have improved vastly over the last couple of years. And with restrictions almost non-existent now, you can travel to any country. The pandemic was a good example to signify the importance of a good insurance plan. And if you are travelling abroad, it is recommended to opt for international travel insurance.

Why travel insurance matters?

It is quite natural to wonder about the need for individual travel insurance for your trips. Here are some reasons why one should always opt for travel insurance plans.

1. Loss of baggage

One of the biggest horrors of an international trip can be the loss or delay of baggage. And it is a rather common occurrence. Airlines might misplace your luggage or human errors can lead to luggage being on another flight. In such instances, you will be left without any essentials for a while. A travel insurance plan offers coverage against such scenarios.

2. Health issues

One can take a lot of precautions to protect themselves from health issues. However, at times it cannot be completely avoided. If you fall sick or encounter a medical emergency during your trip, you might need immediate medical attention. Depending on the country that you are travelling to, the expenses can unsettle your finances. When you buy travel insurance online, your insurance provider will offer protection against such expenses.

3. Cancellations or delays

Operational hazards do lead to flight delays or in the worst case, flight cancellations. If you meet with any such instance, the insurance provider will offer you compensation for meals and refreshments for any delays caused or cancellations as well.

Must have travel insurance benefits

It is quite natural and straightforward to resolve issues on a day-to-day basis here. However, even the simplest of challenges can seem a lot more daunting while you are in a foreign land. It can feel a bit helpless and, in many cases, can cost a lot more as well. However, opting for an individual travel insurance plan can help you overcome a lot of these.

Here are some of the major features that your international travel insurance must have, that can make your trip easier and hassle-free.

1. Cancellation of trips

It is quite common to book hotels and flights well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and to get good deals as well. However, if you end up cancelling the tickets and reservations due to a medical emergency, you will lose money. This is one of the biggest travel insurance benefits, as the insurance provider will cover the expenses.

2. Medical emergency

A travel insurance plan will safeguard your health and finances, in any unforeseen circumstances related to health. The cost of hospitalisation and medications can be substantial, contingent on the destination country. You can file a claim to reimburse any medical expenses that you have incurred during a trip.

3. Trip extension

Certain unexpected events can result in your trip extending beyond your plans. These can include political unrest, natural calamities or even health issues. One of the most useful travel insurance benefits is the ability to cover expenses related to rescheduling flights or booking accommodation.

4. Pre-existing conditions

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it is highly recommended to opt for coverage before travelling abroad. Any escalations or deterioration in health can result in a lot of stress and financial distress as well. It is one of the better travel insurance benefits.

5. Delays and interruptions

Flights are susceptible to operational challenges and weather conditions. If there is a delay in your flight in such circumstances, the insurance provider will compensate any expenses that you incur due to the delay.

6. Baggage loss

One of the worst possible ways to start a trip could be loss or misplacement of baggage on arrival. Unfortunately, it occurs often. One of the smartest ways to protect yourself against loss of baggage is to opt for individual travel insurance. Your insurance provider will pay for the contents inside the bag, up to a specified limit.

7. Adventure sports

If you are planning to undertake any adventure sports, it might be sensible to opt for coverage related to adventure sports. If there are any health hazards, illness, injury or even death of an individual, the insurance provider will reimburse the amount spent, subject to the specified limits.

8. Visa rejection

Some insurance providers offer an add-on for visa rejection. Should you opt for this cover, the insurance provider will refund the visa fee, if it is rejected.

9. Fraudulent charges

If you happen to lose your card you have to notify the insurance provider and if there are any fraudulent charges on it, the insurance provider will reimburse any unauthorised transactions on the card.

FAQs

1. Is a medical check-up needed for travel insurance plans?

Most travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing ailments, out of the box. In such cases, it might not be mandatory to undergo a medical test. However, if you are looking to cover any pre-existing conditions, you might have to undergo a medical checkup.

2. It is mandatory to buy travel insurance?

Some countries do require travellers to opt for a travel insurance policy as a visa requirement. Irrespective, it is a sensible decision to buy international travel insurance for your duration of stay. It will safeguard you from any unforeseen events and offer compensation wherever necessary.

3. Can I extend the term of travel insurance?

Most insurance providers offer the option to extend the term of a travel insurance plan once or twice. However, it is always reasonable to check with your insurance provider about the extension of plan coverage.

4. What is multi-trip travel insurance?

Multi-trip travel insurance offers you coverage over a period of usually 1 year and allows you to travel to different countries on single insurance. It is ideal for individuals who travel a lot either for business or travel. The plan will ensure that you do not have to buy individual travel insurance plans always and is more affordable as well while retaining all travel insurance benefits.

Conclusion

Travelling abroad with international travel insurance will make way for a much smoother experience that does not have any hassles. And in the event of certain circumstances, you need not worry about the expenses, rather focus on taking care of yourself. You can buy travel insurance online and save considerably for your next international trip. And for frequent flyers, multi-trip insurance can be a better alternative.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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