Travel Health Insurance: Why It Matters for International Trips

By Mr. Amarnath Saxena, Chief Technical Officer – Commercial, Bajaj General Insurance Limited (formerly known as Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited) 

Falling sick or getting injured during an international trip is never something you expect, but it can happen. Medical care in another country can be very expensive, and finding your way through an unfamiliar healthcare system often adds to the stress. This is why travel health insurance is so important, it protects you from sudden medical costs while you are abroad. Understanding how it works helps you stay prepared and gives you peace of mind when you are far from home.

What Is Travel Health Insurance?

Travel health insurance, also called international travel medical insurance, is a plan that helps you pay for medical emergencies when you are outside your home country. It usually covers hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency evacuation or return to your home country, and sometimes even basic dental care. It’s different from regular travel insurance. Travel insurance may cover things like trip cancellations, lost baggage, or flight delays. Travel health insurance, on the other hand, is focused only on medical problems that may happen while you are abroad.

Why Do You Need Travel Health Insurance? 

Your regular health insurance usually does not cover treatment outside your home country, and medical care abroad can be very expensive. Travel health insurance gives you financial support if you face a medical emergency while travelling. It helps pay for high medical costs that can run into thousands, protects you in case of sudden illnesses or injuries, and even covers evacuation or return to your home country if better treatment is needed. In fact, travel health insurance is mandatory for entry into most countries. Even if it is not a requirement for your destination, it is still wise to be insured, as unexpected medical costs abroad can be financially overwhelming. Having this insurance means you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you are protected against unexpected health problems.

How Does Travel Medical Insurance Work? 

You need to buy the policy before your trip by choosing your destination, travel dates, and whether you want single trip or multi-trip coverage. After purchase, you’ll receive your policy details and emergency contact numbers, which you should keep with you while travelling. If you need medical help abroad, you can call the insurer’s helpline for guidance to nearby hospitals. If the hospital is part of the insurer’s network, your treatment may be cashless. Otherwise, you may need to pay first and then claim reimbursement later by submitting bills and medical reports. Most plans cover hospitalisation, medical treatment, accidental injury or disability, emergency dental care in certain cases, and medical evacuation or repatriation. Some insurers also offer special plans for students, senior citizens, or frequent travellers, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.

Eligibility Criteria in India:

The eligibility for travel health insurance depends on the type of plan you choose. For students, there are special plans available for Indian students aged 16 to 35 who are studying abroad. Families can opt for family plans that cover between one and six members, starting from six months of age, and some of these plans have no upper age limit. Senior citizens can get coverage through plans designed for people aged 70 and above. If you are travelling alone or not as part of a family unit, individual plans are available to suit your needs.

Facing a medical emergency in another country can be overwhelming emotionally and financially. Travel health insurance provides peace of mind by ensuring access to quality care without the burden of unexpected bills. Reviewing your options and choosing a plan suited to your destination and needs is one of the smartest steps you can take before travelling abroad.