Travelling is exciting, but even the best-planned trip can take an unexpected turn. From missed flights to medical emergencies, a small problem can quickly become stressful, especially when you're far away from home. This is where travel insurance becomes important, as it gives you reliable financial protection. So, whether you’re exploring a new city in India or preparing for an international journey abroad, consider buying travel insurance online.
Once you decide to purchase a policy, the most important step is understanding what it actually covers. Knowing the benefits, limits and exclusions helps you choose the right plan for your journey and avoid unwanted surprises. Let’s take a closer look at what travel insurance typically includes.
What does a travel insurance policy cover?
A travel insurance policy can offer you financial protection against unexpected events during an international or domestic trip. Here are some things it covers:
- Loss/ delay of checked-in baggage: Compensation is generally provided if your checked-in baggage is stolen, lost, damaged or delayed by the airline.
- Medical emergencies: It also covers treatment costs if you fall sick or get injured during the trip. Many plans also include cashless treatment at network hospitals.
- Emergency medical evacuation: If you’re critically ill or injured, the insurance provider may also arrange and cover evacuation to the nearest medical facility.
- Loss of passport: If your passport is lost or stolen, travel insurance may reimburse the cost of having a duplicate.
- Trip delay: If your flight is delayed for a specific number of hours due to the reasons mentioned in the policy, then the insurer shall pay the sum as specified in the policy.
- Personal accident: The policyholder shall receive compensation in case of accidental death or permanent total disability during the trip accident.
- Hijack distress allowance: Some plans also provide compensation if the plane is hijacked for a minimum no. of hours.
- Emergency cash advance: It provides emergency funds if you lose all your money because of theft or other reasons mentioned in the policy.
Note: This is an indicative list. Please read the policy wordings for the complete list of inclusions/exclusions.
Policy limits in travel insurance
A travel insurance policy has certain limits, known as exclusions. Some of the main exclusions are:
- Events that take place before your trip starts or after it ends.
- Fraud, false declarations or intentional damages.
- Self-inflicted injuries, suicide or attempted suicide.
- Travelling against medical advice, or when a terminal prognosis has already been given.
- Participation in criminal activities like assault or other illegal acts.
- Intoxication from alcohol or drugs resulting in injury or claim.
- War, civil unrest, rebellion or situations akin to war.
- Venereal diseases or infections.
- Mental health conditions.
- Radioactive contamination or damage from nuclear fuel or weapons.
- Pregnancy, childbirth or related issues.
- Cosmetic or plastic surgery.
- Pre-existing medical conditions, unless you buy an add-on
Note: This is an indicative list. Please read the policy wordings for the complete list of inclusions/exclusions.
Choosing the right travel insurance coverage as per your needs
Selecting the right type of cover generally depends on the nature of your trip and the situations or problems that you might encounter while travelling. Since the benefits and limits differ for different insurance providers, reviewing the policy wordings can help you understand which cover matches your travel-related needs.
Start by assessing the purpose of your travel (like if it’s a relaxing holiday or a business trip). Each type requires different levels of medical cover, baggage security and trip protection.
Domestic trips usually need basic coverage for medical emergencies, delays or baggage issues. Whereas international trips need higher coverage because medical care and travel costs abroad are expensive. International travel insurance in some countries may also be mandatory for visas.
You should also consider the activities included in your itinerary, like adventure sports and trekking, and check whether these fall under the covered list or need separate cover. The existing medical conditions that you may have should also be considered. Coverage related to pre-existing medical conditions differs among different insurance providers.
By reviewing these factors carefully and understanding what each plan offers, you can select travel insurance which provides you with the right level of safety and comfort.
Conclusion
Every journey comes with its own set of issues, but the right travel insurance makes sure that those issues don’t turn into financial stress. So, whether you're planning to take a short break or an extended international trip, having the right insurance protects you financially and lets you move with peace of mind.
While you focus on planning a memorable and safe trip, let us help you stay financially protected from unexpected medical or travel emergencies. Get personalised travel insurance advice by simply filling out the form available on this page, and travel knowing you’re well covered wherever you go.
FAQs
1. What is the most common travel insurance claim?
The most common claims are for trip cancellations, travel delays and lost or delayed baggage.
2. What is the difference between travel insurance and trip insurance?
Travel insurance covers medical emergencies, delays, baggage issues and more. Whereas, trip insurance mainly focuses on trip cancellation or interruption benefits.
3. Can I get travel insurance without medical cover?
Some insurance providers offer limited plans without any medical cover, but it’s not recommended, as medical costs can be expensive, especially internationally.
4. What is not covered by travel insurance?
Common exclusions include pre-existing medical conditions, loss because of carelessness, high-risk sports, illegal activities and unapproved destinations.
5. What are the two basic types of travel insurance?
The two main types are single-trip insurance (for one single journey) and multi-trip or annual insurance (for multiple trips within a year).
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.