8 Do’s & Don’ts to Keep in Mind: Tips for Buying Travel Insurance Online

Purchasing international travel insurance today is easier than ever. You can go online, discover the right coverage you need from trusted insurers, and get protection for your vacation from unforeseen events within minutes. However, to make an informed purchase, you must understand the basics of shopping for travel insurance on the Internet.

Read on as we delve into 8 do’s and don’ts to consider when purchasing travel insurance online. 

Do’s When Buying Travel Insurance Online

Follow these tips for travel insurance shopping  to ensure a peaceful international holiday:

1. Do Compare Policies

The market is full of insurance providers who offer unique insurance for travellers. These plans come with different benefits and coverages. So, don’t get the first policy you see. Instead, visit insurers’ websites to see different plans and get quotes based on your needs and wants. Also, look for special deals and discounts on premium. Finally, compare your options and pick the one that fits your requirements.  

2. Do Review the Coverage Details

Every travel insurance plan is unique, so when comparing two policies, go beyond just reviewing their cost. Always compare details like the maximum sum assured, deductibles, and included benefits such as coverage for flight delays, ticket cancellation, lost/delayed baggage, etc. 

These plans also have several exclusions and restrictions, offering limited or no coverage for specific damages or in certain regions of the world. Comparing all these details is essential to make an informed choice.

3. Do Check for Customer Reviews

When in town for the best travel insurance, don’t disregard customer reviews. People who have purchased a policy are always in a better position to discuss the coverage details, service experience, claim settlement process, etc. Checking customer reviews and testimonials online reveals the insurer’s reputation and helps you gauge whether you can rely on them to ensure your journey. 

4. Do Look for 24/7 Assistance Services

When on vacation, especially in a foreign country, you don’t want to be left hanging when an emergency arises. You should be able to seek professional help, be it emergency transport or medical assistance, regardless of the day and time. So, always prefer insurers with a responsive round-the-lock support team to assist you in your hour of need. 

A Few Don’ts When Buying Travel Insurance Online

Here are some things to avoid when purchasing an international travel insurance plan for your international holiday:

1. Don’t Overlook the Fine Print

Beyond the ads and marketing material lies the paperwork containing the actual terms of the policy. These documents contain all essential details like inclusions and exclusions, conditions for claim settlement and rejection, and limitations of the policy. Be sure to review the fine print, as it ensures there will be no surprises when filing claims in the future.

2. Don’t Opt for the Cheapest Option Without Research

Purchasing the cheapest travel insurance isn’t a wise decision. Such policies often have many drawbacks, like lower sum assured, plenty of exclusions and geographical limitations. Instead, assess the policy’s value by considering all the benefits it offers in relation to its price. That way, you can ensure you get adequate coverage for the price you pay. 

3. Don’t Misrepresent Information

When purchasing travel insurance, the insurer will seek certain details from you. These include your travel plan, destination, planned activities, pre-existing health issues, and complete medical history. Provide all these details honestly, as withholding information, even involuntarily, can lead to the rejection of your claims. 

4. Don’t Delay Purchasing the Insurance

Delaying the purchase of travel insurance until the last minute limits your options. You may be forced to purchase a policy that is either too expensive or leaves you underinsured. Also, don’t buy a policy while already on vacation. In such scenarios, insurers only cover a handful of medical emergencies without offering protection against flight delays, lost baggage, etc. 

The best time to purchase travel insurance is when you’ve booked your tickets. You know your exact travel itinerary, so you can customise policies to your needs and get a comprehensive protection plan. In case you cancel your trip before departure, the insurer will reimburse you.

Key Takeaways

Purchasing travel insurance is an important decision in travel planning, not only from the perspective of finances but also safety. Getting a policy without delay, comparing your options, and analysing coverage details ensures you get complete protection while enjoying your time away from home. Follow the tips for travel insurance shopping mentioned in this post to make an informed decision. 

Additionally, platforms like PhonePe offer unlimited convenience and a seamless insurance purchase experience.