When you think of the USA, you’re probably imagining iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, bustling cities like New York, or breathtaking natural wonders like the Grand Canyon. Planning a trip to the USA can be incredibly exciting, but it’s essential to ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected. That’s where USA travel insurance comes into play. Whether you’re exploring the busy streets of Los Angeles or hiking through national parks, having the right insurance gives you peace of mind. It covers you for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and even lost luggage. So, before you pack your bags, make sure you’ve sorted your USA travel insurance.
Here is a list of some of the important features of USA travel insurance:
Key Features | Details |
Maximum coverage | Offers coverage against various unforeseen events, like medical, travel and baggage-related emergencies. |
Constant support | Round-the-clock assistance via 24x7 customer care support and in-house claim settlement. |
Easy cashless claims | Offers cashless claims benefits accessible through multiple network hospitals. |
COVID-19 coverage | Coverage for hospitalisation expenses caused by COVID-19. |
Massive cover amount | Extensive coverage range from $40k to $1000K. |
The type of travel insurance you choose for the USA should be based on your travel requirements. Here are the main choices that are offered;
The next time you plan a visit to the USA, purchasing USA travel insurance should be on top of your agenda. Here are some essential benefits of a USA travel insurance plan for you:
This is one of those real-life situations when life gets in the way of your travelling plans. The USA travel insurance could help recover part of your lost expenditure due to flight cancellations, pre-paid hotel reservations, or even missed connections.
Healthcare in the USA can be quite expensive. With a travel insurance plan, you’re covered for any medical emergencies, from minor injuries to more serious conditions, ensuring you’re not burdened with hefty medical bills.
There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your destination without your luggage. If your bags are delayed or lost, your insurance can cover the costs of essential items, so you’re not left scrambling.
Travelling to a new country is thrilling but can also come with uncertainties. Having USA travel insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re protected against unexpected events, allowing you to enjoy your trip fully.
It would cover in case any accidents happen that might be purely accidental the insurance company should pay the legal costs for the damages or injury caused to others while you are abroad.
Here are some of the things that are usually covered under travel insurance for USA from India:
Our policy covers the costs related to medical emergencies, so you don’t have to break your pocket during your trip.
USA travel insurance also covers the expenses related to dental emergencies that you may face.
In case of medical emergencies that require immediate care, our policy helps by covering the expenses related to air/land medical evacuation to the nearest healthcare centre.
Our policy also helps you to take care of petty hospitalisation-related expenses, so you don’t have to exceed your travel budget.
In the tragic event of death, our policy will be responsible for covering the expense of transferring one’s mortal remains to their home country.
In the unfortunate event of accidental death while travelling, our policy will offer a lump-sum compensation to your family.
To ease your burden if an unforeseen occurrence results in permanent disability, the policy will offer you a lump sum compensation.
If you find yourself responsible for third-party damage in a foreign country, our policy will make it simple for you to compensate for those losses.
In case you experience a cash crunch caused by theft or robbery, our policy will help facilitate emergency fund transfers from India.
In case your flight gets hijacked, we will do our part by offering compensation for the distress it causes you while the authorities handle the situation.
Our USA travel insurance offers a reimbursement feature that will help you cover the expenses related to essential purchases arising out of a flight delay.
In case you need to extend your hotel stay due to a medical emergency, our policy will cover those additional expenses.
You will be covered for the expense of replacing lost or stolen personal documents and belongings with our USA travel insurance.
Our policy will offer you compensation in case of loss of checked-in baggage. So, don’t worry about spending your USA trip in the absence of your essentials.
In case your check-in baggage gets delayed, our policy will cover the essential purchases while things get sorted.
The above mentioned coverage may not be available in some of our Travel plans. Please read the policy wordings, brochure and prospectus to know more about our travel insurance plan.
Your travel insurance for USA from India policy may not offer coverage for:
Health complications that are caused due to war, terrorism or breach of law are not covered under the travel insurance plan.
If you use intoxicants or banned substances, the USA travel health insurance plan will not offer any coverage.
If you have a medical condition prior to the trip or receive treatment for a pre-existing disease, the plan will not cover those expenses.
Injuries or health complications suffered due to terrorism or war.
Injuries as a result of intentional harm or suicide attempts are not covered under international travel insurance.
The policy will not cover injuries and hospital expenses that are caused as a result of participating in hazardous activities and adventure sports.
During the foreign country trip, if you or a family member choose to receive cosmetic or obesity treatment, those associated expenses will not be covered under the plan.
If you want to buy travel insurance online for USA, the following are the steps that you need to follow:
• Visit the official HDFC ERGO International Travel Insurance website.
• Find the “Buy Now” button and click on it.
• Enter the required details like trip type, total travellers and their respective age, and hit “Continue”.
• Provide the name of the country you are planning on visiting, which in this case is USA, along with the dates of departure and return and press next.
• Enter your contact details, such as your name, email and phone number, on the pop-up window and click “View Quote”.
• Choose from the available plans, select “Buy”, and enter the verification code to move on to the next window.
• Follow up with the additional information required by the policy and complete the online payment.
• Upon successful payment completion, your travel insurance policy will be issued and sent to the inbox you provided.
Don’t let medical emergencies abroad drain a hole in your travel budget. Keep yourself financially covered against emergency medical and dental expenses with travel insurance.
Category | Details |
Size | The USA is the third-largest country in the world, both in size and population. It’s so vast that you could spend weeks exploring and still not see it all! |
Diverse Landscapes | From deserts to mountains and beaches to forests, the USA offers some of the most diverse landscapes in the world. Think of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, or the Appalachian Trail – each place offers a unique experience. |
Cultural Melting Pot | The USA is known for its diversity, with people from all over the world making it their home. This mix of cultures creates a rich tapestry of food, traditions, and festivals that you’ll love exploring. |
Iconic Landmarks | The USA is home to some of the most recognisable landmarks in the world, like the Statue of Liberty, the White House, and Hollywood. You’ve seen them in movies, but there’s nothing like seeing them in person. |
Inventions | Did you know the USA gave the world the internet, the aeroplane, and even the lightbulb? It’s a country of innovation and creativity. |
There’s a Town with a Population of One | Monowi, Nebraska, is the only incorporated town in the USA with just one resident, who serves as the mayor, librarian, and bartender. |
The USA Has No Official Language | Although English is the most widely spoken language, the USA does not have an official language at the federal level. |
Alaska’s Coastline is Longer Than All States | Alaska boasts a coastline of 6,640 miles, which is longer than the coastlines of all other US states combined. |
A City That’s Always Christmas | Santa Claus, Indiana, is a real town where you can visit year-round Christmas-themed shops, and residents receive thousands of letters to Santa. |
New York’s Subway System is Massive | If you’ve ever been on the New York subway, you know it’s vast. But did you know that it has more stations than any other metro system in the world? |
The Library of Congress is Huge | The Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., is the largest in the world, with over 170 million items in its collection. |
Las Vegas Is the Brightest Spot on Earth | When viewed from space, Las Vegas shines as the brightest spot on Earth due to its concentrated lights along the famous Strip. |
If you’re planning a trip to the USA, getting your tourist visa sorted is the first step. Here’s a quick list of the documents you’ll need as an Indian:
• A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your stay.
• DS-160 form confirmation.
• Proof of visa fee payment.
• Visa interview appointment confirmation.
• A recent passport-sized photo.
• Travel itinerary, including flights and accommodation.
• Financial proof, like bank statements.
• USA travel insurance, which isn't mandatory but adds an extra layer of protection.
The best time to visit the USA largely depends on what one wants to experience. If you are after pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider early March to May and September to November. During these times, you will enjoy mild temperatures and beautiful scenery whether it is exploring cities or national parks. Summer is the peak tourist season, starting from June through August, and it includes popular cities such as New York and San Francisco and several national parks. If you enjoy vibrant festivals and outdoor activities, summer could be just your thing. Winter (December to February) is great if you’re into winter sports or festive holiday events. Places like Colorado and Utah are fantastic for skiing, while cities like New York and Chicago sparkle with holiday lights and activities.
Whichever time you choose, just make sure you have your USA travel insurance in place for the unexpected. It can give you peace of mind and truly enjoy yourself either basking in summer or exploring winter wonderlands. You will make sure that everything goes well with minimal hassle and less tension if you have travel insurance.
Alongside setting up the trip itinerary, make sure to plan what to carry in your suitcases for the USA visit. A few all-year-round essentials would be;
• Healthcare in the USA can be expensive, so invest in travel insurance that covers medical emergencies
• Beachwear for fun trips to the beaches.
• Layered clothing for various climates, including a lightweight jacket and comfortable shoes.
• Sunscreen to avoid getting sunburnt during outdoor exploration.
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Important Travel documents that ensure the validity of your entire stay, travel adapter and voltage converter.
While flying to the USA, a couple of tips about safety and precaution always come in handy for smooth travel.
• Always carry with you a copy of your documents, like your passport and visa, so you can ensure that they are not stored in the same place.
• Be aware of your environment, especially in crowded places and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Equally important is taking the time to make yourself familiar with local numbers, just in case of an emergency.
• The weather in the USA can fluctuate from hurricanes to snowstorms, so stay tuned for that.
• Bring along a doorstop alarm when staying in a hotel. It is small, but it'll make you feel safer. You do not feel as safe in a strange hotel room at times.
• Sign up through your country's embassy to get travel alerts, which will keep you updated with any local problems or natural disasters.
• Be mindful of wildlife if you’re exploring national parks or rural areas. Always keep a safe distance from animals and never feed them.
• If you’re driving, be aware that different states have varying traffic laws, so it’s a good idea to review them before hitting the road.
• Sign up through your country's embassy to get travel alerts, which will keep you updated with any local problems or natural disasters.
• Lastly, remember to include USA travel insurance in your plans. It’s essential for covering any unexpected events, ensuring you’re protected throughout your trip.
Airport | City | IATA Code |
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport | Atlanta | ATL |
Los Angeles International Airport | Los Angeles | LAX |
John F. Kennedy International Airport | New York City | JFK |
Chicago O'Hare International Airport | Chicago | ORD |
San Francisco International Airport | San Francisco | SFO |
Miami International Airport | Miami | MIA |
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport | Dallas/Fort Worth | DFW |
Denver International Airport | Denver | DEN |
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport | Seattle | SEA |
Washington Dulles International Airport | Washington, D.C. | IAD |
Let travel insurance handle the additional expenses caused by extended hotel stays due to medical emergencies. Click here to learn more!
When you’re planning a trip to the USA, there are so many incredible places you can visit, each offering something unique. Let me take you through eight popular destinations that you might want to consider:
You can’t talk about the USA without mentioning New York City. It’s a place where you can experience the buzz of Times Square, take a stroll in Central Park, and soak in the views from the top of the Empire State Building. Don’t forget to catch a Broadway show or visit the Statue of Liberty. The city is a mix of culture, history, and endless excitement. Just make sure you’ve got your USA travel insurance sorted, as it’s essential for a stress-free visit in such a busy city.
Las Vegas is all glitter and glitz, a place known for its nightlife enlivened with gamblers and over-the-top entertainers, the perfect place to let loose. There is a place where you will find themed hotels offering gastronomic delights and options for entertainment in huge amounts line up. Take a helicopter ride over the nearby Grand Canyon if you are sporty enough.
San Francisco is one of those places that has an immediate appeal, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must, and then there's the fun of exploring pretty quirky neighbourhoods like Haight-Ashbury and Chinatown. An Alcatraz Island ferry trip or a ride on the cable cars over the hilliest of streets is also an absolute must. In that cool, foggy weather, it's a blast just to walk around and uncover hidden treasures of places.
Look to Orlando for maximum fun with the family, as it hosts some of the world's most renowned theme parks: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. Be it stomach-dropping roller coasters or fairy tales with magic wands, Orlando has something for all. Just remember to pace yourself and hydrate often, as the Florida heat can be pretty extreme.
For the history buffs, Washington, D.C. is the place to be. Its iconic landmarks are dotted across the capital of the USA, starting with the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and U.S. Capitol. You will find countless museums and galleries, most of them free to enter and indulge in depth about the vast history of the country. Take a walk along the National Mall; if you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms are a sight to behold.
It's heavenly on earth-greener beaches, emerald waters, and landscape gardens are simply dreamlike. Be it surfing the waves of Waikiki Beach or hiking up Diamond Head, it is a sport for breathtaking sceneries and panoramic views. You can immerse yourself in the local way of life at the Polynesian Cultural Center or explore historic Pearl Harbor.
New Orleans is a city like no other, with its unique blend of cultures, music, and cuisine. The French Quarter is the heart of the city, where you can wander through charming streets, listen to live jazz and indulge in beignets at Café du Monde. Mardi Gras is a huge draw, but New Orleans is lively year-round with festivals, parades, and vibrant street life.
When in the USA, there are countless experiences you could be immersed in. Here are a few for you to do on your visit to make the trip memorable:
The US boasts of some of the most spectacular national parks in the world. One can walk around the greatness of the Grand Canyon, see geysers shooting up from the floor in Yellowstone, or get mesmerized by the gigantic redwoods in California. Every park has topography and wildlife that are unique, making them ideal for nature lovers.
Washington, D.C. is filled with museums. The Smithsonian Institution alone has 19 museums, covering everything from art to space exploration. You could spend days here just soaking up knowledge and history.
Driving along Route 66 is considered an American classic. The historic highway from Chicago to Los Angeles will take you through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and beautiful deserts. This is a great way to see the country's heartland and some charm for off-the-beaten-path destinations.
If you come to New York City, make sure to take in a show on Broadway. Known for its classic musicals, innovative plays, and top-notch performances, the Theatre District is an experience that will keep you inspired and amused.
New Orleans was the birthplace of jazz, and the music scene is alive and well. You can hear live music in the French Quarter, go into historic jazz clubs, or join in on a street parade. It's infectious energy and unforgettable music.
Beaches in Hawaii represent a good getaway. You get to see beautiful shores, warm waters, and a laid-back feel, be it Honolulu or one of those smaller islands. It is an ideal place to head to to recharge your batteries and catch some sun.
Planning a trip to the United States of America requires a proper amount of budgeting. Here are a few tips that would make a big difference in helping you save money so that you can have more fun without overspending:
You stand to save much if you can book your flights well in advance. Airlines have better deals many months in advance of a departure date. Use price comparison sites for the best offers and consider flying mid-week as the fares are always lower.
Consider an option in budget hotels, hostels, or even rentals via Airbnb. You'll often find staying outside the very centre of the city is much cheaper but still well-connected. If you travel as part of a big group, sometimes it's worth renting a big place rather than a few hotel rooms.
Public transportation: Use public transport in the cities rather than taking a lot of taxis or renting cars. Many US cities have excellent bus, subway and train systems that are reasonably priced and efficient. The money you save this way, plus the more authentic flavour of local life, are great bonuses.
Eat your meals at places where the locals do and avoid the costly touristy restaurants. You can get scrumptious meals from food trucks, diners and eating places at just a fraction of the price it takes. In this way, you will get to taste typical American food without making a dent in your wallet.
Many U.S. cities offer free or very inexpensive activities. From museums to parks, from festivals to markets, you can see and do much without breaking the bank. Or do a free walking tour that allows you to explore an area and come to understand it a little better.
Although this may seem like an extra expense, USA travel insurance will save money, rather than make one spend. It covers all forms of unexpected expenditures, such as medical emergencies or cancellation trips, without hitting the wallet with a big bill.
Here are a few Indian restaurants to fill your soul when you miss Indian food:
Restaurant Name | City | Must-Try Dishes | Address |
Junoon | New York City | Black Dal, Tandoori Lamb Chops, Butter Chicken | 27 W 24th St, New York, NY 10010 |
Saravana Bhavan | New York City | Masala Dosa, Idli Sambar, Pongal | 129 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016 |
Samosa House | Los Angeles | Samosas, Chole Bhature, Paneer Tikka | 10907 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 |
Bombay Palace | San Francisco | Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Korma, Garlic Naan | 49 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94108 |
India House | Houston | Chicken Tikka, Biryani, Garlic Naan | 8889 W Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77031 |
The Royal Indian Restaurant | Chicago | Rogan Josh, Chicken Korma, Paneer Tikka | 200 E Chestnut St, Chicago, IL 60611 |
Dosa | San Francisco | Dosa, Malai Kofta, Lamb Vindaloo | 1700 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115 |
Little India | Atlanta | Chicken Biryani, Palak Paneer, Aloo Gobi | 5950 Roswell Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30328 |
When you’re visiting the USA, it’s good to be aware of local laws and etiquette to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are a few key points:
• Personal space is respected in America, so maintain some distance in social and public settings.
• 15-20% of the bill amount is commonly paid by the customers in restaurants, a gesture that is followed and expected in the USA. You also need to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.
• Smoking in public places like restaurants and bars is illegal almost everywhere. If you smoke, look for "Smoking" areas.
• Obey traffic lights and speed limits, keep in mind that jaywalking is illegal in most cities, so always use crosswalks.
• In general, casual attire is great everywhere, except for perhaps fine dining restaurants which may have dress code rules.
• Always have a valid ID with you, as you might need it for various transactions or age verifications.
Office | Name | Working Hours | Address |
Embassy of India | Indian Embassy, Washington, D.C. | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 2101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20007 |
Consulate General of India | New York City | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 3 East 64th Street, New York, NY 10065 |
Consulate General of India | San Francisco | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 540 Arguello Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118 |
Consulate General of India | Chicago | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 455 North Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago, IL 60611 |
Consulate General of India | Houston | Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM | 4300 Scotland St, Houston, TX 77007 |
Take your pick from the options below, so you can be better prepared for your trip to a foreign country
International travel insurance makes flight delays, loss of baggage and other journey-related inconveniences less bothersome.
That depends upon where you are going. There is good public transportation in the big cities: buses and subways. Cross-country travel may involve rental cars or domestic flights. All methods have an advantage, depending on what you want to do.
In case your passport gets lost, you should immediately report to the local police and your country's embassy or consulate. They can help you issue a replacement or emergency travel documents so that you can continue your journey.
In most of the towns and cities, tap water is always considered safe to drink as it conforms to severe quality standards. However, if you are venturing out further into remote areas, it's best to inquire from the locals and perhaps stick with bottled water.
You can use international roaming, purchase a local SIM card with your mobile phone, or access Wi-Fi from public places. Many hotels and cafés will also provide you with free Wi-Fi, which is quite helpful when communicating.
Yes, there are strict regulations on bringing food items into the USA. Generally, fruits, vegetables, and meats are prohibited. To know what you are allowed to bring into the country, check with U.S. Customs And Border Protection to avoid fines or having your items confiscated.
Call 911 in case of emergency for immediate assistance with medical services, police, or fire. Keep on hand information about your home country's embassy or consulate; they may be able to assist in all kinds of general emergencies.