Travelling abroad can come with risks, especially for elderly parents. Health issues, accidents, flight delays, or even loss of baggage can quickly turn a happy journey into a stressful one. This is why travel insurance for parents is so important. With the right insurance plan, you can ensure peace of mind and financial protection for your parents when they travel overseas.
Get to know why travel insurance is essential and how you can buy the best travel insurance for your parents online.
Importance of travel insurance for parents
Here is why overseas travel insurance is important:
- Medical emergencies: Hospitalisation, surgery or sudden illness during travel can cost a lot in foreign countries. Travel insurance covers these expenses.
- Accident cover: In case of accidents, the policy covers the medical bills and treatment.
- Flight-related issues: Delays, missed connections or cancellations can be stressful. Insurance helps recover the financial loss.
- Loss of baggage or documents: Losing a passport or luggage abroad can be a nightmare. Insurance provides support for replacement and recovery.
Factors to consider when choosing travel insurance for parents
Before buying a travel insurance plan, keep these important factors in mind:
1. Check the list of coverage
Before you purchase travel insurance for your parents, thoroughly check the list of policy inclusions. Typically, travel insurance covers the following:
- Flight and/or hotel reservation cancellation:
If your parents wish to cancel or postpone their planned trip due to a medical condition, travel insurance will compensate for the losses incurred on the flight & hotel reservation.
Travel insurance also covers trip cancellation due to the sudden demise of a close family member.
With travel insurance, the insurer assists you with policy extension in case you are stranded at your travel location.
2. Check for medical coverage
It's crucial to check with the insurer the scope of medical coverage included in the travel insurance. You must also read the policy's fine print to understand if there are any hidden clauses.
3. Check the baggage cover
It is critical to double-check the scope of luggage coverage. Usually, most insurers cover the following:
The insurer will cover you if your luggage is lost or stolen. They cover necessities such as clothing, toiletries, and medications. They also cover delayed baggage delivery.
4. Check the list of add-ons available
Consider purchasing useful add-ons to provide your parents with total financial protection during their trip overseas. For example, look for travel insurance covers such as emergency cash advance, emergency hotel accommodation, etc.
5. Check the claim settlement ratio
The claim settlement ratio of an insurer helps you understand if the insurer is reliable. Prefer purchasing travel insurance from providers who have a high claim settlement ratio.
Types of travel insurance plans for parents
When you search for travel insurance, you will find many types of plans.
1. Single-trip insurance
A single-trip insurance plan covers one journey from start to end. It is suitable if your parents are travelling abroad only once in the near future.
2. Multi-trip insurance
If your parents travel frequently during the year, a multi-trip plan is more convenient and cost-effective. It covers multiple journeys within a set period, usually a year.
3. Comprehensive travel insurance
A comprehensive plan provides wide coverage, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and more. It is a safer choice for older individuals who may need broader protection.
4. Medical travel insurance
This type mainly focuses on medical emergencies and hospitalisation. It is useful if you are especially worried about health risks during the journey.
5. Senior citizen travel insurance
Some insurers offer plans specially designed for elderly travellers. These may include higher medical coverage, cashless hospitalisation abroad, and even coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Steps to buy travel insurance for parents online
Buying travel insurance for your parents is simple and quick. You can do it without visiting any office.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Research and compare plans: Visit trusted online platforms where you can compare different policies. Look at coverage, benefits, exclusions, and costs side by side before deciding.
- Fill in traveller details: Enter your parents’ personal details like name, age, travel dates, and destination. This helps the platform show you suitable plans.
- Check coverage options: Select the coverage amount that makes sense for the destination. For example, if your parents are visiting countries with high medical expenses, go for higher coverage.
- Declare health conditions honestly: Always provide correct information about your parents’ health. This avoids problems later during claim settlement.
- Select add-ons if needed: Some plans allow add-ons like adventure sports cover or coverage for pre-existing diseases. Choose them only if relevant.
- Make payment online: Once you choose the plan, pay securely online. Most platforms accept debit cards, credit cards, or net banking.
- Get policy documents: After payment, you will receive the policy documents via email. Print a copy and keep it handy while your parents travel. Also, save the emergency contact numbers provided.
Conclusion
Travelling abroad can be a wonderful experience for parents, but it also comes with risks. Having the best travel insurance offers protection from unexpected expenses and gives them a stress-free experience.
Get simple, clear travel insurance guidance for your parents by filling in the form provided on this page. This way, you can find the best cover for their needs with expert advice.
FAQs
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Can parents with pre-existing health conditions get travel insurance?
Yes, but the premium may be higher, and some conditions may be excluded. Always share their medical history honestly.
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What is the best coverage amount for elderly parents?
It depends on the destination. For countries with expensive healthcare, choose a higher coverage limit.
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Can I buy travel insurance for my parents after they have started travelling?
Usually, you must buy it before the journey begins. Some plans may allow purchase within a short window after departure, but it is better to buy in advance.
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Can I buy travel insurance online from India for parents travelling abroad?
The entire process can be done online from India. You can pay digitally and receive the documents by email.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.