Travelling can mean different things to different people. While for some, it is about getting away from the routine, for others, it can mean an adventure or an experience. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the number of Indian travellers exploring foreign lands. With higher disposable incomes, more accessible flight and hotel costs, and increasing awareness about international destinations, Indians have been packing their bags and heading to international airports more often. While a lot goes behind planning an international trip, getting an overseas travel insurance policy is essential. Today, we will talk about travel insurance and look at the factors that make it necessary for international trips.
What is International Travel Insurance?
When you travel to a foreign country, you are exposed to different types of risks. These include risks to your health, like new diseases and viruses, accidents, and mishaps. They also include non-medical risks like the loss of your baggage or passport, etc. An international travel policy offers coverage for such emergencies.
Why Is International Travel Insurance Important?
An international travel insurance plan offers financial protection against various medical and non-medical exigencies as listed below:
● Medical Emergencies
These policies offer coverage for medical expenses incurred due to an accident or medical emergency while in a foreign land. They cover in-patient and out-patient costs and might also cover transport costs to the nearest medical facility. In a foreign country, medical costs can be steep depending on your location. If you fall ill or contract a local viral infection and require hospitalisation, then you are protected by overseas insurance coverage.
● Flight delays or cancellations
Many people visit multiple locations while travelling to a foreign land. Hence, there are a few flights, including connecting flights, in the itinerary. However, flights tend to get cancelled for various reasons, such as delays, technical issues, etc. The international travel insurance plan offers coverage for the expenses associated with hotel stays and food due to the delay.
● Loss of passport
If your passport is lost or stolen, then the travel insurance policy covers the expenses associated with getting your passport reissued.
● Loss/Delay of baggage
Checked-in luggage getting delayed or lost is common around the world. Apart from the unnecessary hassle, this can also result in financial strain since you will have to buy new things that were lost or misplaced. The travel plan covers these losses and even offers compensation to help you buy essentials.
● Third-party liability
If you unintentionally damage the property of a third-party and are legally liable to pay for the damages, then the insurer will cover it for you. Hence, having travel insurance while overseas can protect you from any third-party liability.
While in some countries, it is mandatory for travellers to have an international medical insurance policy, buying a travel insurance policy is a better option since it offers coverage for medical and non-medical emergencies. If you are looking for overseas medical insurance in India, then you might want to consider buying an overseas travel insurance plan instead.
Also, before buying the travel policy, make sure that you research the market and look at all the options available to you. Compare providers and plans and look at the travel insurance claim settlement process and ratio to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
As you can see, an international travel insurance plan offers a range of benefits that can help you manage emergencies while in a foreign country. You can buy international travel insurance online by visiting the website of the insurance provider. Make sure that you choose a plan that offers maximum protection at affordable rates.
