Travel insurance is one of those things you hope never to use — but when a flight is cancelled, a bag goes missing or you fall ill abroad, it can save you from a serious financial hit. Here is what every international traveller should know before buying a policy.
What travel insurance actually covers
A good policy typically protects you against:
- Medical emergencies — hospital treatment, doctor visits and sometimes emergency evacuation
- Trip cancellation or interruption — non-refundable costs if you must cancel for a covered reason
- Lost, delayed or damaged baggage
- Flight delays and missed connections
- Personal liability — if you accidentally injure someone or damage property
Why it matters for Indian travellers
Healthcare abroad can be extremely expensive, and many countries require proof of insurance before they will grant a visa. The Schengen visa, for example, mandates a policy covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses. Buying cover is often not optional — it is a condition of entry.
Reading the fine print
Not all policies are equal. Before you buy, check:
- The coverage limit for medical claims — higher is safer for expensive destinations
- The deductible or excess you pay out of pocket per claim
- Whether pre-existing conditions are covered or excluded
- Exclusions for adventure activities like skiing, scuba diving or trekking
- The claims process and 24/7 emergency helpline
Tips for choosing the right policy
- Match the cover to the trip. A ski holiday, a cruise and a city break all carry different risks.
- Buy early. Trip-cancellation cover only helps if you are insured before something goes wrong.
- Declare the truth. Hiding a medical condition can void your entire claim.
- Keep documents handy. Store your policy number and emergency helpline on your phone and a printed copy in your bag.
What to do if you need to claim
Report incidents promptly, keep every receipt, and get written reports for theft (from the police) or medical treatment (from the hospital). Insurers ask for evidence, so document everything as it happens.
A small premium buys a lot of peace of mind. When you book an international package with Dreamscape Tours, we can help you arrange suitable cover so nothing catches you off guard.
