Even before the global pandemic, traveling was challenging for people with complicated literary and multiple connections and layovers. Missing luggage, delayed flights, and upset plans mean the traveler must reschedule their travel plans.
The post-pandemic traveler must now account for the regulatory requirements for Covid-19 coverage. The Central Asian turmoil has added additional security dimensions for travel security in the affected region.
Travel Insurance Explained
Travel Insurance is a form of insurance that provides coverage for various unexpected events that may occur while travelling. It typically covers many situations, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen baggage, and accidents or injuries.
There are many types of travel insurance policies available, and the coverage and costs of each policy vary based on multiple factors, like your destination, length of your trip, and your age and health status.
Types of Travel Insurance
Some common types of travel insurance include:
Medical coverage: This type of insurance covers any medical emergencies that may arise during your travels, such as accidents, illnesses, or medical evacuations. It typically includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, prescription medications, and emergency medical transportation.
Trip cancellation or interruption coverage: This type of insurance provides coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, injury, or a death in the family.
Baggage loss or theft coverage: This type of insurance covers the loss or theft of your luggage or personal belongings during your travels.
Personal liability coverage: This type of insurance provides coverage in case you cause damage or injury to others while travelling.
Emergency evacuation coverage: This type of insurance covers emergency medical evacuations in situations where you need to be transported to a hospital or medical facility for treatment.
As a Pakistan traveller, there are multiple reasons why travel insurance is a valuable must-have for you.
Value of Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an essential part of travel plans for any traveller, regardless of nationality or destination. However, there are some very reasons why Pakistani travellers should seriously consider buying travel insurance before starting their travel plans.
Firstly, travel insurance can offer coverage for unexpected medical emergencies. Medical treatment can be expensive in many countries, even more after our current economic situation. A simple medical emergency can quickly add up to substantial expenses, which can throw you off your budget. Travel insurance can help relieve you of these costs and ensure that you receive all necessary medical care.
Secondly, travel insurance usually covers issues that result in trip cancellation or interruption. Suppose a traveller has to cancel their trip due to unexpected circumstances, like sickness or a natural disaster. In such cases, travel insurance will compensate for most non-refundable expenses related to your trip.
Similarly, suppose a traveller experiences any issue that results in a trip interruption, which is under the insurance cover, e.g., flight delays or cancellation. In that case, travel insurance can offer compensation for additional expenses incurred due to these factors.
Thirdly, travel insurance generally offers coverage for lost or stolen luggage and personal belongings. Losing luggage or having personal belongings stolen can be a challenging and costly experience, specifically when traveling in a foreign country. Having travel insurance means that you will get repayment for lost or stolen items, which helps to relieve some of the financial burdens that such unexpected problems cause.
How to Apply for Travel Insurance:
These are the steps you should follow to apply for travel insurance:
- Research: Research all available travel insurance packages available from different insurance companies. Compare all key aspects like coverage, benefits, and pricing to find the plan that matches your pocket and travel requirements.
- Choose a Plan: Once you shortlist a plan that meets your requirements, review the policy document to ensure that you know the terms and conditions of the insurance plan.
- Fill out the Application Form: Applying for travel insurance online is usually possible instead of going physically to insurance agents. To apply online, visit the insurance company’s website and fill out the application form with your personal information, travel dates, and any other relevant information required by the policy.
- Provide Additional Information: Depending on the policy you pick, you must provide relevant additional information such as medical history, details about your itinerary, and proof of purchase for your trip.
- Pay the Premium: After submitting your application, you will have to pay the premium. This can also be done online via credit card or other payment methods.
- Receive the Policy: Once your application has been processed and the premium has been paid, you will receive the policy document via email or mail. Review the document carefully to ensure that all the details are correct.
It’s essential to make arrangements for your travel insurance well before your departure date. This gives you enough time to review the policy, submit the information needed, and address any concerns or questions with the insurance company.
Conclusion
Travel insurance can offer peace of mind and a sense of security when travelling. Knowing that you are covered by insurance in case of an emergency or unexpected event can allow you to relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the financial consequences of something going wrong.
Like in any financial commitment, it is essential to review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy in detail to know what is and isn’t covered. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations on coverage, so it’s important to ask questions and clarify any concerns before you finalize a policy. Similarly, some regions have restrictions on coverage and exclusions.
Travel insurance is necessary for anyone planning to travel, as it protects against unforeseen events and can save you from potentially disastrous financial losses. Whether planning a short trip or an extended stay in a foreign country, investing in travel insurance is a smart and responsible choice.
Sadia Zaheer holds a Masters in Business Administration from IBA, Karachi. After working in several financial institutions in Client Management, Corporate Lending, Islamic Banking and Product Management she jumped careers to pursue a career in writing.
She is a Finance, Business and HR Development writer with four years of experience. She reads a lot and takes care of her multiple cats to remain calm.
