Long-term international travel requires travel insurance. You may not realise what your travel insurance international plan needs most. For years, I picked the first vacation plan I saw. I never checked my coverage information.
Thankfully, nothing went wrong, but I fear to imagine what could have happened if it did. I’ve subsequently learned to examine certain things before buying a plan. I check these five items before choosing travel insurance. Emergencies happen unexpectedly. After months without a problem, I contracted a parasite in Kabul, Afghanistan, where my travel insurance didn’t cover me!
Is my medical plan good?
Medical coverage is perhaps the most crucial element of your plan because it may really add up if something goes wrong. Always choose a backpacker insurance plan with strong medical and repatriation coverage. The amount of medical coverage you need depends on where you’re going, the cost of medical care there, and your current policy. Repatriation charges are different but crucial. Getting home may cost more than a plane ticket. You may require specific equipment, nurse escorts, and more. Evacuation costs over $100,000, according to the US Centers for Disease Control.
Is my schedule covered?
You purchased online travel insurance with ample medical coverage. You may now enjoy your trip’s exciting activities without anxiety, right? Sadly, this is improbable. Activities covered are where travel insurance gets problematic. Standard travel insurance rarely covers some activities. You may have to pay more for coverage.
Standard insurance may exclude:
- Skiing, snowboarding, mountain riding, scuba diving, kayaking, and rafting
- Volunteering
- Campsites and hikes
- Bungee jumping
- Anything amazing may be left out!
I make sure my long-term travel insurance covers my planned activities when I get it.
If only all my Indian train delays were covered by insurance…
Does my plan cover delays and cancellations?
Travel delays and cancellations can be covered by trip delay and cancellation insurance.
Trip delay coverage usually pays out if your flight is delayed. While waiting for your next flight, use this money for motels and meals. Trip cancellation insurance covers pre-trip cancellations. This usually only covers circumstances out of your control, including sudden illness or travel advisories for your destination. All this is covered in a travel insurance international policy. Trip cancellation usually covers transportation and lodging.
Personal liability insurance?
Personal liability insurance pays third parties for damage you cause. Without it, you’re susceptible. Accidents can make you liable even if you don’t hurt others (ideally). Biking into someone can cost you a lot.
Are my possessions insured? Even valuables?
If you’re taking high-value items on vacation, you’ll need high-value item coverage! Insurance plans may not cover products over a particular price. Make sure your travel insurance covers your camera, laptop, or expensive sports gear. Sometimes you can add coverage for high-value things, but you must tell your insurance company before you leave. If you’re bringing anything expensive, paying a little extra for insurance may be worth it.
Conclusion
You should now know what to look for in a backpacking or long-term travel insurance coverage. Each journey is different, so when getting insurance, consider your particular circumstances. Additionally, each section’s terms and conditions will vary by insurance carrier. Before purchase, check the provider’s coverage. And if you think this applies only for international travel, think again.
All these things can happen on a domestic trip also so it’s best to get a travel insurance in India before any trip. Then you can travel with peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens, you are ready for anything that the world throws at you while you explore your dream destinations.
* Standard T&C Apply
** Currently, there are 2 tax regimes in India – new and old. To get the tax benefit you desire, choose the correct one after consulting an expert. You can opt for a regime change during the next financial year.
# Visit the official website of IRDAI for further details.
## All savings are provided by the insurer as per the IRDAI-approved insurance plan. Standard T&C apply
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions,
limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully
before concluding a sale.
