While travel insurance is not mandatory for all destinations, certain countries, including Schengen nations, the UAE, and some others, require travellers to have insurance before granting a visa. Even if not mandatory, it is highly recommended to avoid unexpected expenses.

Travel insurance is categorized into:

• Single-Trip Travel Insurance: Covers one specific trip.
• Multi-Trip Travel Insurance: Covers multiple trips within a year.
• Domestic Travel Insurance: For travel within India.
• International Travel Insurance: Covers overseas travel.
• Student Travel Insurance: Designed for students studying abroad.
• Senior Citizen Travel Insurance: Tailored for travellers above 60 years.
• Corporate Travel Insurance: For business travellers.

A standard travel insurance policy covers:
✔ Medical emergencies and hospitalization expenses
✔ Trip cancellation or curtailment
✔ Loss of passport, luggage, or personal belongings
✔ Flight delays or missed connections
✔ Accidental death or disability
✔ Personal liability (if you cause damage to a third party)

Coverage may vary depending on the insurer and the policy selected.

Common exclusions include:
❌ Pre-existing medical conditions (unless specified)
❌ Travel to high-risk countries (war zones, disaster areas)
❌ Self-inflicted injuries, drug or alcohol-related incidents
❌ Losses due to negligence (leaving baggage unattended)
❌ Extreme sports or adventure activities (unless covered by a special policy)

Reading the policy document carefully is essential to understand the exclusions.

The premium depends on:

• Destination: High-risk countries may have higher premiums.
• Duration of Trip: Longer trips generally cost more.
• Age of Traveller: Senior citizens may have higher premiums.
• Coverage Type: Comprehensive plans cost more than basic coverage.
• Medical History: Pre-existing conditions may affect the cost.

Many insurers now offer COVID-19 coverage, which includes:
✔ Medical treatment for COVID-19 abroad
✔ Trip cancellations due to COVID-19 infection
✔ Quarantine expenses in certain cases

However, coverage may differ between insurers, so it’s advisable to check the policy terms.

The claim process generally involves:

1. Medical Claims: Notify the insurer immediately, get medical reports and receipts, and submit them for reimbursement.
2. Baggage Loss/Delay: File a report with the airline and get documentation before claiming.
3. Trip Cancellation: Provide proof of cancellation reasons (e.g., medical reports, airline documents).

Keeping proper documentation and notifying the insurer promptly will help ensure a smooth claim process.

Yes, many insurers allow policy extensions if your trip gets extended due to unforeseen circumstances. It is best to contact the insurer before your policy expires.

Consider the following when selecting a policy:
✔ Destination and visa requirements
✔ Medical coverage and emergency assistance
✔ Baggage and flight delay benefits
✔ Personal liability protection
✔ Insurer’s claim settlement record

Comparing different insurers and consulting an expert can help in selecting the best plan.