The thrill of travelling is always a joyous experience, whether it is a long-awaited trip or a business trip. But these travels are also accompanied by surprises that can turn your joyous journey into a financial nightmare. For instance, sustaining an injury, losing baggage, missing flights, and more can quickly drain your financial resources. This is where your travel insurance can help you.
It is a type of insurance that offers a safety net against unforeseen events and ensures that you are financially covered throughout your journey. Apart from these financial benefits, travel insurance plays a significant role in visa approval. Certain countries, like Schengen countries requires you to have international travel insurance for visa approval.
In this blog, you’ll learn what to look for before buying travel insurance and how to purchase it.
What are the Factors to Consider Before Buying a Travel Insurance Policy?
Here are some of the key factors that you should consider before buying travel insurance:
Frequency of Your Travel
Before choosing travel insurance, assess your travel frequency. If you are a frequent traveller, your insurance requirements may vary as compared to someone who travels once a year. For instance, if you are a frequent traveller, you may require insurance that covers multiple trips under a single policy.
Duration of Your Trip
The duration of your journey plays a pivotal role in deciding the right travel insurance. Short trips usually require basic coverage, while longer stays may need extended medical and trip interruption cover. Make sure your policy covers the entire duration of your journey, including any possible extensions, so that you’re protected for the full length of your stay.
Your Travelling Destination
Your destination significantly impacts the type and amount of coverage you need. Some countries have higher medical costs, while others may require mandatory travel insurance for visa approval. If you’re travelling to countries like the USA, Canada or Europe, it’s advisable to opt for higher medical coverage.
Your Health Condition
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, or heart-related issues, you should choose a policy that covers them, either as part of the plan or through an add-on.
Purpose of Your Visit
Lastly, consider the purpose of your travel. Whether you’re travelling for leisure, business, education or adventure sports, your insurance needs will vary. For example, if you plan to participate in adventure sports like skiing or trekking, you’ll need additional coverage. Similarly, students or business travellers may require specialised plans that offer extended stay and specific benefits.
How to Buy a Travel Insurance Policy in India?
To buy travel insurance India, follow the steps mentioned below:
- Begin by visiting the website of an insurance company or a trusted policy comparison platform.
- Enter basic details such as your travel destination, travel dates, age and number of travellers.
- Compare different plans based on coverage, sum insured, exclusions and premium.
- Select an insurance policy that meets your travel needs and customise it with add-ons if required.
- Make the payment online using UPI, debit/credit card or net banking.
- Once the payment is done, download the policy document sent to your registered email and keep a digital copy handy while travelling.
Conclusion
Travel insurance is all about travelling smart. You may plan every detail of your trip, but some things are simply beyond your control. A good travel insurance policy acts as a safety net, helping you deal with medical emergencies, travel delays or sudden changes without stress. It doesn’t cost much, but it can save you a lot of trouble when things don’t go as planned. So before you pack your bags and head out, make sure travel insurance is sorted.