Travel Medical Insurance: What You Need to Know

One doesn’t always understand the essentials of travel medical insurances, as it can be confusing and complicated. However, it is important, especially when you dream about traveling to different parts of the world. So, read on for all the information you need about travel medical insurance.

What is a Travel Medical Insurance? And how is it different from a traditional health insurance?

Travel medical insurance is designed to cover short-term risk while traveling abroad. It includes medical emergencies and other travel related benefits like insurance for lost baggage, trip interruptions, medical evacuations, etc. Travel medical insurances are undoubtedly different from regular health insurance plans. While regular health insurances are for an extended period, they do not provide many benefits while traveling abroad. Regular health insurance benefits will remain limited to an emergency medical expense.

Do you need travel medical insurance while going abroad even if you are already covered by regular health insurance?

Yes! Even if you are covered under a regular health insurance scheme, it is advisable to buy a travel medical insurance while traveling abroad. As mentioned above, regular health insurance plans cover only the emergency medical expenses, and you might require further assistance while you are on a trip abroad. However, if both of your insurances cover the same features, it might be confusing as both these insurance providers will persuade you to purchase their insurance plan.

How should we choose a good travel medical insurance plan?

Buying travel medical insurance because of low prices or collaborations with an airline is not the best decision. There are significant factors you need to look before buying travel insurance.

What expenses does the plan cover?
Don’t believe an insurance agent blindly. First read the document carefully and look for any unclear terms or benefits being promised.
Which benefits are not covered by the plan?
You must know what your insurance will not cover as every insurance has different terms and conditions.
What will be your pocket expenses?
You should know what is deductible or charged if you need any medical attention abroad. You must know every detail about the insurance before purchasing it.

How and when can you claim the benefits in case of injury or sickness?

In an emergency situation, you should contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most of the companies have an online system for claiming the insurance amount. If in case you are hospitalized, you must inform your insurance agent as they typically contact the hospital and arrange for a direct payment without your involvement. If the hospital does not permit the mode of direct payments, you can pay the expenses upfront and then claim a reimbursement from the insurance company later. Along with this, you have to submit all the documents to the hospital for claiming your insurance. Every insurance company has different rules, so you must get your questions answered by your agent beforehand.

Recommended Read: Why You Should Get a Travel Health Advisor

Pro Tip:

When reading the benefits section of a travel medical insurance, think about all your fears while traveling. Look for the insurance plan that provides you with benefits related to your travel fears. If you fear being injured, then look closely at the benefits provided in case of a mishap. If you’re afraid of the loss of your baggage, look at the benefits of such a case provided by the insurance company. With the right travel medical insurance, you will soon be ready to enjoy your travels absolutely tension-free.

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