The travel industry has witnessed a massive boom and with an increasing demand for travel, it becomes imperative to know all about travel insurance. Insurance for travel is like any other insurance that provides coverage against a range of risks involved while travelling. Some of the coverage that typical international travel insurance generally offers includes lost luggage, trip cancellation or delays, theft, injuries incurred during travelling and other kinds of uncertainties that may affect the travelling.

To put it in simple terms, travel insurance offers financial assistance to the insured in case there is any kind of mishap while travelling. However, please note that the coverage varies from insurer to insurer, so whenever you are planning to buy travel insurance for yourself and your loved ones, compare the different travel insurance plans and pick the one that best meets your needs.

A hassle-free travel is a dream of many people. Agreed? Travelling becomes all the more convenient and stress-free when it is secured with travel insurance plans as there’s a possibility that an unexpected event may alter all your travel plans at any point in the journey. If truth be told, then these unfortunate events may not only affect travellers emotionally and physically but also financially. So, to help avid travellers like you stay protected against uncertainties while travelling to your favourite destinations, purchasing travel insurance in advance is the most effective solution.

Facts About Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Eligibility	1 day to lifelong
Duration	Multi-trip travel insurance - 1 year Single-trip travel insurance - Starting from day 1 to few weeks
Benefits	Covers medical expenses Compensation against trip delays or cancellation
Add-ons	Trip Delay Trip Cancellation Baggage Loss Passport Loss Adventure sports cover Pre-existing diseases coverage, etc
Claim settlement procedure	Online and offline options are available
Countries covered	200+
COVID-19 Coverage	Yes
Pre-existing Diseases Coverage	Yes; varies according to Insurer and Traveller Age
Covers Family	Yes; under Family Travel Insurance

• Single Trip Travel Insurance: Provides coverage for a specific trip.
• Multi-trip Travel Insurance: Extends coverage to multiple trips for frequent travelers.
• Leisure Travel Insurance: Made for holiday travel.
• Senior Citizen Travel Insurance: Specifically designed for individuals aged 60 and above.
• Business Travel Insurance: Curated for business-related trips.
• Student Travel Insurance: Caters to students traveling abroad for educational purposes.
• International Travel Insurance Plan: Offers coverage for international travel
• Group Travel Insurance: Designed for groups traveling together.

Read more about types of travel insurance here.

Features of Travel Insurance Policy

A good travel insurance means one that can offer maximum coverage at a very affordable price. So, listed below are some of the features that you must consider while buying travel insurance for yourself or your loved ones.

• Baggage Coverage:

  Most travel insurance now comes with the added feature of offering protection against loss or delayed baggage. So, whenever you are looking for the best travel insurance plans, always make sure that it also offers baggage coverage so that in case you do not have to compromise with your luggage being misplaced or lost.

• Trip Coverage:

  Travel insurance plans now offer features such as trip assistance, protection against trip cancellation and many more.

• COVID-19 Coverage:

  In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many insurance companies are now offering special COVID-19 coverage under their travel insurance plan. This coverage provides the insured with the benefit of rescheduling the trip, medical expenses and more incurred when they are diagnosed with the COVID-19 infection. Travel insurance can help you get compensation for your hotel reservations, flight reservations, and other expenses when someone in your immediate family or fellow traveller is infected with the COVID-19 infection.

• Optional Coverage:

  Apart from those mentioned above, you can also compare the different travel insurance plans and look for one that provides optional coverage. Some of the common optional coverage include medical expenses for adventure sports, home burglary, escorting a minor child and a few more. However, remember that to avail of these additional features, you will need to pay an extra premium.

Even after knowing about the basic features of a travel insurance policy, it is best to always compare the different travel insurance plans that are now being offered.

No matter what your travel destination is, having travel insurance is unarguably an essential need. Travel insurance makes everything so easy and organised that a traveller must avail of the same, first and foremost. So, to highlight the importance of travel insurance, we have enumerated the benefits of having international travel insurance in the section below.

• Covers Unexpected Medical Expenses:

  There are chances that you may fall ill or may face an unexpected medical emergency while you are travelling. In such a case, travel insurance comes into play and aids you financially by offering coverage for ailments incurred while travelling.

• Protection Against Delayed Flights:

  A delayed flight may spoil the entire fun of the trip. But, when you have travel insurance, you can remain protected against delayed flights. In instances when the flight is delayed, travel insurance helps to cover the expenses such as booking another flight at additional costs.

• Trip Cancellation:

  Nobody would wish to cancel their much-anticipated trip, but life is so unpredictable that an unforeseen circumstance can knock on your door at any time and may require you to cancel your entire trip. Upon provision of a legitimate reason for cancelling the trip, travel insurance helps to reimburse for unused flights, hotel stays and more.

• Lost And Delayed Baggage:

  There are occasions when luggage gets lost or delayed. In order to overcome such a situation, travel insurance comes into play and offers compensation of a fixed amount to the insured.

• Has No Age Restrictions:

  Unlike health insurance or life insurance, travel insurance does not have a minimum or maximum age requirement. From infants to senior citizens, everyone irrespective of their age can stay protected against odds while travelling with the help of travel insurance.

• Protection Against Theft:

  Travelling to a foreign land is full of challenges and it becomes more difficult when you fall prey to theft or robbery. So, to help you stay protected against such a situation, travel insurance ensures that you are aided with financial aid even though your entire money is robbed while travelling.

• Offers Peace Of Mind:

  Most people travel to rejuvenate and escape the humdrum of daily life. So, to make travelling all the more worthwhile, travel insurance is something that can offer peace of mind during the entire trip by providing protection against most of the odds.

• Offers Personal Liability Coverage:

  During a trip, there is a possibility of the insured hurting a third party unintentionally. To offer compensation to the third party in such a case, travel insurance aids the insured with a certain sum of money.

With umpteen benefits to offer to travellers, travel insurance truly becomes an indispensable part of any trip.

The eligibility criteria for Travel Insurance plans in India are as follows:

• Family Travel Insurance:

Family travel insurance typically covers the insured, their spouse, and up to two children. Children included in the policy should be below 21 years of age, and adults must be between 18 and 60 years old.

• Senior Citizen Travel Insurance:

This type of insurance is specifically for individuals aged 60 and above, recognizing the unique needs and health considerations of older travelers.

• Student Travel Insurance:

Student travel insurance is applicable for those aged between 16 and 35 who are enrolled in a foreign university or educational institution.

• Business Travel Insurance:

Individuals eligible for business travel insurance plans usually fall within the age range of 18 to 70 years.

Please note - You are eligible for International Travel Insurance plans only if you are travelling to a country via a flight. For e.g. - If you are travelling to Bhutan / Nepal via road, in that case, you are not eligible for international travel insurance.

What is Covered under Travel Insurance Plans?

Travel insurance plans are designed to offer coverage for a wide range of unforeseen circumstances. Here are the main scenarios covered:

• Medical Expense

Coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, including hospitalization, medication, and other medical expenses.

• Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Reimbursement for expenses incurred due to trip cancellations or interruptions caused by emergencies or unforeseen events.

• Emergency Medical Evacuation

Coverage for the cost of emergency transportation to a medical facility in case of a severe medical condition.

• Baggage Loss and Delay

Reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage, as well as coverage for additional expenses due to baggage delay.

• Personal Liability

Coverage for legal expenses and compensation in case of unintentional harm to a third party or damage to their property.

• Trip Delay

Coverage for additional expenses incurred due to trip delays beyond the traveler's control.

• Accidental Death and Disability

Payment in the event of accidental death or disability while traveling.

It's essential to carefully read the policy documents to understand the specific terms, conditions, and inclusions, as additional coverage options may be available as add-ons.

What's Not Covered under Travel Insurance Plans?

While travel insurance provides extensive coverage, there are certain exclusions to be aware of. Common exclusions include:

• Traveling against Medical Advice:

Claims may be denied if the traveler engages in travel against medical advice.

• Injuries under the Influence:

Injuries sustained while under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not be covered.

• Pre-existing Diseases:

Some pre-existing diseases may not be covered, depending on the policy terms.

• Self-injury or Suicide:

Claims related to self-injury or suicide during the trip are generally excluded.

• Complicated Pregnancy:

Expenses related to complicated pregnancies may not be covered.

• Delayed Reporting of Baggage Claims:

Claims for baggage loss reported after a specific period may be denied.

• Involvement in Illegal Activities:

Losses resulting from involvement in fights or illegal activities may not be covered.

• Extreme Sports:

Injuries sustained while participating in extreme or adventure sports may require additional coverage.

Understanding these exclusions is crucial to managing expectations and making informed decisions when purchasing travel insurance.

Travel Insurance Add-ons

• Adventure Sports Coverage

This add-on provides coverage for injuries or mishaps during adventurous activities such as trekking, skiing, scuba diving, etc.

• Home Protection

This add-on protects your home against burglary or theft while you're away, ensuring peace of mind during your trip.

• Minor Child Escort

In case of an emergency, this add-on ensures the safe return of a minor child traveling with you.

• Rental Car Damage Coverage

Covers expenses related to damages to rental cars during your trip, offering financial protection and eliminating the need for additional rental car insurance.

Why Should you Buy Travel Insurance from InsuranceDekho?

When it comes to purchasing travel insurance, choosing the right platform is crucial. Here's why InsuranceDekho stands out:

• Wide Range of Options

InsuranceDekho provides a diverse range of travel insurance plans, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

• Easy Comparison

The platform offers a user-friendly interface that enables easy comparison of different travel insurance plans. This helps you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

• Transparent Information

InsuranceDekho provides clear and transparent information about the terms, conditions, and coverage of each travel insurance plan, ensuring that customers have all the details they need.

• Convenience

With InsuranceDekho, you can buy travel insurance online, saving time and effort. The entire process is streamlined, from comparing plans to making the purchase.

• Customer Reviews

Access customer reviews on InsuranceDekho to understand the experiences of other travelers with specific insurance plans. Real feedback can help you gauge the reliability and effectiveness of a particular policy.

• Destination and Activities

Consider the destination of your trip and the activities you plan to engage in. Ensure that your travel insurance covers any specific risks associated with your chosen location and activities.

• Coverage Limits

Check the coverage limits for medical expenses, baggage loss, trip cancellations, and other key areas. Ensure that the coverage limits align with your needs.

• Exclusions

Carefully review the exclusions mentioned in the policy. Understand what is not covered to avoid surprises during your trip.

• Add-on Options

Evaluate the available add-on options based on your requirements. These can enhance your coverage for specific risks that may not be included in the standard policy.

• Pre-existing Conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, ensure that you declare them during the application process. This transparency is crucial for accurate coverage.

• Comprehensive Information

Comparing travel insurance plans online provides access to comprehensive information about different policies, including coverage details, exclusions, and add-on options.

• Cost Comparison

Online platforms allow you to compare the costs of various travel insurance plans, helping you find a policy that offers the best value for your money.

• Customer Reviews

Reading customer reviews on online platforms provides insights into the real-world experiences of travelers with specific insurance plans. This can influence your decision-making process.

• Convenience

Comparing travel insurance plans online is convenient and time-saving. You can easily navigate through different policies and make an informed decision from the comfort of your home.

A travel insurance premium calculator is a tool that helps you estimate the cost of your travel insurance based on various factors. These factors may include:

- Age: Younger individuals may have lower premiums.

- Destination: Some destinations may have higher risks, impacting the premium.

- Coverage Amount: Higher coverage amounts generally result in higher premiums.

- Trip Duration: Longer trips may lead to higher premiums.

- Add-ons: The inclusion of add-ons can increase the premium cost.

Using a premium calculator allows you to customize your coverage and understand the associated costs before making a purchase.

How to Buy Travel Insurance Online?

Buying travel insurance online is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Research and Compare

Start by researching and comparing different travel insurance plans. Consider factors such as coverage, exclusions, add-ons, and customer reviews.

• Use a Premium Calculator

Many online platforms, including InsuranceDekho, offer premium calculators. Use this tool to estimate the cost of your desired coverage based on various factors.

• Fill in Personal Details

Once you've chosen a plan, you'll need to fill in your personal details, including your age, trip details, and any pre-existing medical conditions.

• Select Add-ons

Choose any add-ons that align with your needs to enhance your coverage.

• Review the Policy

Carefully review the selected policy, paying attention to coverage details, exclusions, and terms.

• Make the Purchase

If you are satisfied with the chosen policy, proceed to make the purchase. Most online platforms offer secure payment options.

• Receive Policy Documents

After the purchase, you'll receive the policy documents via email. Keep these documents handy during your trip.

How to Claim Travel Insurance?

In the unfortunate event of a covered incident during your trip, you may need to file a claim. Here's a general guide on how to claim travel insurance:

• Contact the Insurer

Notify the insurance company as soon as possible after the incident. Most insurers have a helpline or an online claims portal for such notifications.

• Fill the Claim Form

Complete the necessary claim form provided by the insurer. This form typically requires details about the incident, supporting documents, and your policy information.

• Provide Supporting Documents

Gather all relevant supporting documents, such as medical reports, bills, police reports, and any other documentation related to the incident.

• Submit the Claim

Submit the completed claim form along with the supporting documents to the insurer. This can usually be done online through the insurer's portal.

• Claim Evaluation

The insurance company will evaluate your claim based on the provided information and documents. This process may involve communication with the insurer's claims department.

• Claim Settlement

If the claim is approved, the insurer will proceed with the settlement. This may involve reimbursement for medical expenses, compensation for trip cancellations, or other covered benefits.

Documents Required for Travel Insurance Claim

When filing a travel insurance claim, you will typically need the following documents:

• Claim Form: Duly filled and signed.
• Original Policy Document: A copy of your travel insurance policy.
• Proof of Identity: A government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license.
• Proof of Travel: Itinerary, boarding passes, or other proof of travel.
• Medical Documents: In case of medical claims, provide medical reports, bills, and prescriptions.
• Police Report: For incidents like theft or loss, a police report may be required.
• Invoice and Receipts: Original invoices and receipts for expenses incurred.

Ensure that you check the specific requirements of your insurer, as document requirements may vary.

There are a number of insurance companies in India that now offer travel plans. So, listed below are some of the top travel insurance companies along with the popular international travel insurance plans offered by them

Travel Insurance Companies	Travel Insurance Plans
HDFC ERGO	HDFC ERGO Family Travel Insurance Policy HDFC ERGO Individual Travel Insurance Policy
TATA AIG	Travel Guard Plan Student Guard Plan Domestic Travel Guard Plan Asia Travel Guard Plan
Bajaj Allianz	Senior Citizen Travel Insurance Plan Family Travel Insurance Plan Student Travel Insurance Plan
Reliance	Asia Travel Insurance Plan Europe Travel Insurance Plan Africa Travel Insurance Plan
Royal Sundaram	Asia Travel Insurance Plan Student Travel Insurance Plan Senior Citizen Travel Insurance Plan

Tips To Buy the Best Travel Insurance Plan

Here is a list that will help you in buying the best travel insurance plan:

• Always keep the requirements in mind and accordingly choose a travel insurance plan. For instance, In case you mostly travel in a group or with your family, then opt for buying group travel insurance plans as the premium of these will be lower than individual travel insurance plans.
• You should include only those add-ons to your travel insurance policy that are important, as customising the policy to a great extent may result in an increased premium. For instance, including an add-on that includes medical expenses for adventurous activities may seem useless if you are not performing any such activity.
• Also, if you are a frequent traveller, then buy a multi-trip travel insurance policy that can save a lot of your money.
• Before buying any travel insurance plan, always perform a detailed comparison and accordingly buy a travel insurance plan.

Listed below are some of the most commonly used terminologies in travel insurance plans:

• Cashless settlement: Many insurance companies directly settle against the loss during travelling, which is referred to as cashless settlement.
• Common carrier: This refers to any organisation such as commercial airlines that is responsible for letting people travel from one place to another.
• Deductible: There is a certain amount that the insured needs to spend out of their pocket and that won’t be reimbursed. This particular amount is known as a deductible.
• Equipment failure: This refers to any kind of breakdown of the carrier’s equipment due to which the insured’s trip gets delayed.
• Grace period: The grace period in travel insurance is the extended period during which the insured gets a certain time to pay the premium and enjoy the benefits of the policy at the same time.
• Hospitalisation: This refers to the act in which the insured is hospitalised for immediate medical care for a minimum of 24 hours.
• Insured journey: It implies the duration of the trip which generally commences once the insured boards the flight and ends after their arrival back to their original destination.
• Insured person: It indicates the individual or the policyholder who has purchased the travel insurance policy.
• Land/Sea agreement: This agreement refers to the different types of arrangements done for a scheduled trip of the insured person by the trip operator or organisation.
• Medical expenses: This includes all types of medical expenses incurred upon the insured while they are travelling.
• Notification of claim: It refers to the process by which the insured informs the insurer that they need to raise a claim.
• Room rent: This refers to the fixed charges that the insured needs to pay when they are admitted to the hospital.
• Sum insured: When an unfortunate event occurs during your trip, then the insured is entitled to receive a certain amount of money, which is referred to as the sum insured.
• Subrogation: It means that when an insured person is harmed by a third party, then the insurer takes legal action against the latter for doing so.
• Travelling companion: This refers to two other people who are travelling along with the insured or the policyholder.