Why Buy Travel Insurance

By Author: Pranav V Sharma
Total Articles: 141
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Travel insurance policies are designed to help an individual in need when traveling to a foreign land. With any policy, it is important that you read the terms and conditions carefully and that you specially review the exclusions. Travel insurance policies differ markedly in their terms and conditions. Using travel insurance begins as you encounter any problem after you've purchased coverage and before or during a trip. A problem that puts your plans at risk and/or that threatens considerable cost beyond what you would normally encounter. Once you know the details of the problem, you promptly contact the company that issued your travel insurance policy and file a claim.

For problems with modest cost that are covered under your travel insurance policy, you'll be likely told to pay the costs, keep all supporting bills, invoices and receipts, and to file a claim with the company after your trip is over. For problems that cost a lot, like hospitalization in a foreign country, the insurance company will instruct you on what action to take. If you do not have the means to pay for what you need and then wait for reimbursement, ...
... and no preferred provider can be used, some travel insurance companies will transfer funds to help. They do so only after being satisfied about costs encountered, and that they are sending the funds to and for someone who is covered.

Check the precise details of medical care included in your travel insurance policy that you will be able to claim. Hotlines allow an insurer to assess a situation and give some advice about medical care as quickly as possible. If you take part in any adventure sports or activities, check your travel insurance policy for medical coverage related to accidents that happen while you're doing that activity and whether or not you need any formal training to be insured. If you can't find a general travel insurance policy to cover your activity of choice, you may be able to purchase a separate policy from company specializing in that activity.

Check if there is coverage for illnesses that become apparent after your return. International travel insurance policies usually exclude medical costs incurred in your country of residence even if the costs stem from an injury or illness that happened while you were travelling. Medical costs in your home country are assumed to be covered by your normal healthcare arrangements. Also, check if your travel insurance policy has adequate coverage for dental expenses. Some policies provide substantial amounts for general medical expenses, but only very small amounts for dental expenses. Bear in mind that Coverage for medical care does not automatically include medical evacuation. It is very important to know the details of your travel insurance policy.

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Pranav Sharma is an insurance agent based in Mumbai; Pranav assists individuals and corporates in purchasing the right travel insurance & often shares his insights about the general insurance industry on internet.