Planning an international trip often involves careful budgeting, visa arrangements, and a packed itinerary. Amidst the excitement, travel insurance is a crucial aspect that travellers sometimes overlook.
While it may seem like just another add-on, overseas travel insurance is key in ensuring peace of mind while you’re far from home. Before you embark on your journey, it’s essential to understand why this coverage deserves a place on your travel checklist.
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for International Trips?
There’s a common misconception that travel insurance is required for every international journey. In reality, while several countries do mandate it, not all destinations make it compulsory. That said, this doesn’t mean one should overlook its importance.
Many nations include travel insurance as part of their visa or entry requirements to ensure visitors are equipped to deal with emergencies. For example, countries in the European Union require applicants to have valid Schengen travel insurance before a visa is granted.
Some countries that have similar rules in place include:
| 1. | France | 18. | Belgium |
| 2. | Italy | 19. | Switzerland |
| 3. | Spain | 20. | Iceland |
| 4. | United Arab Emirates | 21. | Portugal |
| 5. | United States of America | 22. | Sweden |
| 6. | Turkey | 23. | Poland |
| 7. | Russia | 24. | Finland |
| 8. | Qatar | 25. | Latvia |
| 9. | Malta | 26. | Austria |
| 10. | Netherlands | 27. | Estonia |
| 11. | Denmark | 28. | Slovenia |
| 12. | Czech Republic | 29. | Slovakia |
| 13. | Germany | 30. | Norway |
| 14. | Luxembourg | 31. | Bulgaria |
| 15. | Liechtenstein | 32. | Romania |
| 16. | Greece | 33. | Croatia |
| 17. | Hungary | 34. | Lithuania |
Importance of Travel Insurance During International Trips
International travel insurance is more than just a formality—it’s a crucial safeguard that protects you from unexpected situations that could otherwise disrupt your plans or drain your finances. Here’s why having travel insurance during international trips is important:
Protects Against Medical Emergencies
One of the most vital reasons to have travel insurance is medical coverage. Healthcare costs abroad can be exorbitant. For instance, a hospital stay in the U.S. or Europe can cost several thousand dollars per day.
If you fall ill, meet with an accident, or require urgent treatment for a pre-existing condition (if covered), your policy can cover expenses like consultation fees, hospitalisation charges, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medical evacuation, and repatriation to India if medically necessary.
Some policies even offer a daily cash allowance if you’re hospitalised for more than a set number of days. Without travel insurance, you would have to pay these costs entirely out of pocket.
Covers Flight Delays or Cancellations
Flight delays and cancellations are common, especially with long-haul international journeys involving multiple layovers. These disruptions may require you to rebook flights, stay overnight at a hotel, or incur extra meal expenses.
A travel insurance policy typically reimburses additional transportation and accommodation costs, prepaid expenses for activities missed due to the delay, and meals and other essentials during extended wait times.
Coverage for Lost or Delayed Luggage
Airlines can sometimes misplace checked-in baggage or deliver it late. Arriving in a foreign country without your belongings can be frustrating and inconvenient. Travel insurance ensures you are not stranded without basics, especially when you need them most.
It covers the cost of purchasing essential items like clothes, toiletries, or medication, compensates permanently lost items (based on their value and policy terms), and offers reimbursement for damaged luggage or items.
Helps with Loss of Passport
Losing your passport in a foreign country can be a nightmare. It is your primary identity and travel document, without which you cannot return home or even check into hotels in some places.
Travel insurance can cover the costs of obtaining a duplicate or temporary passport, help you navigate the process by connecting you with the nearest embassy or consulate, and provide financial assistance for travel to and from the embassy.
Covers Trip Cancellation and Curtailment
Life is unpredictable—personal emergencies, natural disasters, or political unrest can arise before or during your trip, forcing you to cancel or cut it short. Without insurance, you could lose significant amounts on prepaid bookings.
A travel insurance policy covers cancellation charges for flights, hotels, cruises, or guided tours. It also provides partial refunds for the unused portion of the trip and additional transportation costs to return home early if needed.
Protection Against Personal Liability
If you accidentally injure someone or cause damage to property during your trip, you may be held legally and financially responsible. Travel insurance is especially important if you’re travelling to countries with strict liability laws.
Travel insurance with personal liability coverage offers protection by covering legal expenses in case you’re sued, paying compensation to the affected third party, and providing support in settling claims as per the host country’s laws.
Safeguard Your Home While You Travel
Certain travel insurance policies provide added coverage to protect your unoccupied home in India while you’re away. These benefits can include reimbursement for losses due to burglary, theft, or fire and protection for valuables stored at home.
Some policies also offer optional add-ons for extended security if you live in a high-risk area This feature adds an extra layer of comfort, ensuring your home is protected during your absence.
24×7 Assistance Services
Navigating emergencies in an unfamiliar place can be overwhelming, especially when facing language barriers, different healthcare systems, or local regulations. Travel insurance offers real-time support to ensure you’re never truly alone, no matter where you are.
Most reputed travel insurers offer 24/7 global assistance services, including medical helplines and hospital referrals, assistance with lost or stolen belongings, help with emergency cash transfers, coordination with local police or consulates, and guidance for legal issues abroad.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance Policy?
Choosing the right travel insurance plan depends on your travel needs, destination, and coverage expectations. Here are key factors to consider:
- Type and Duration of Your Trip: Your chosen policy should align with your travel purpose. A multi-trip annual policy can be more cost-effective for frequent travellers, while a single-trip plan suits occasional travellers.
- Coverage and Inclusions: Review the benefits offered under each plan. Look for coverage related to medical and dental emergencies, trip interruptions, and liability for accidental damage or injury.
- Add-Ons and Customisation: Many insurers offer optional add-ons such as coverage for adventure sports, COVID-19 treatment, maternity-related emergencies, or pre-existing illnesses. Choose add-ons based on your specific needs.
- Insurer’s Network and Claim Process: Select a reputable insurer with a global assistance network and a simple, transparent claim process. Look for insurers offering 24×7 helpline support, cashless hospitalisation, and quick reimbursement timelines.
- Balance of Premium and Coverage: While affordability is important, don’t choose a policy based on the premium alone. Compare the benefits, claim limits, and exclusions to ensure you get the best value for your money.
- Policy Terms and Exclusions: Always read the fine print. Understand what is not covered—such as certain adventure activities, pre-existing conditions, or claims arising from alcohol/drug use—so there are no surprises later.
Travel insurance isn’t just a formality- it’s a vital safety net that protects you from financial and logistical setbacks during international travel. Having the right policy can make all the difference, whether it’s a sudden illness, a lost passport, or a delayed flight.
While not every country mandates it, being covered gives you peace of mind and ensures that unexpected issues don’t derail your journey. Before you embark on your next adventure, make sure your travel insurance is as carefully planned as your itinerary.