You have finally secured your dream study abroad program, packed your bags, and are all set to begin a life-changing journey. But as with any trip, the unexpected can happen. From missed flights to medical emergencies, the last thing you want is for an unfortunate event to derail your plans. This is where travel insurance steps in. By offering a safety net for students moving out of their home country, insurance is a saviour. If you’re wondering how, let’s discuss it in detail.
What does Travel Insurance Cover?
Buying student travel insurance through a travel insurance app offers the following —
- Emergency Medical Coverage
Living abroad makes you vulnerable to various illnesses due to different climatic conditions and local food. If you fall ill while pursuing your education abroad, the insurer will cover doctor consultations, hospitalisation, medical costs, and diagnostic tests up to the amount specified in the policy.
Additionally, if the city where you reside does not have adequate healthcare facilities, the insurer will pay for transportation to a nearby hospital. If your condition deteriorates and the doctor advises calling your parents to assist, the insurer will arrange and reimburse the flight ticket for one of your loved ones and cover their accommodation.
- Coverage for Trip Interruptions
There are multiple scenarios over which you have zero control. Suppose you fall sick on the day you have to catch your flight, and the doctor advises bed rest for the next few days. In this scenario, the insurer will compensate for the loss incurred due to non-refundable bookings, such as flight tickets, hotel stays before moving to the hostel, and other such expenses.
Simply put, any financial loss related to unavoidable incidents resulting in trip cancellation or interruption is covered under student travel insurance.
- Personal Liability Coverage
While abroad, if you cause injury to a third party or damage someone’s property while exploring different places, the insurer will cover such expenses. For example, you are in a shop selling antique items. While exploring the display, your hand accidentally knocks down a sculpture, and it breaks. The insurer will cover the cost of that item.
If you injure someone and that person files a legal suit against you, the insurance will cover the legal charges and other relevant expenses in resolving the court case.
- Ease of Compliance
There are several countries around the world where travel insurance is mandatory, not only for international students but also for tourists. Additionally, various universities require students to have travel medical insurance. The primary reason for this coverage requirement is to ensure the insurer will cover the necessary expenses if any uncertainty arises abroad.
- Lost or Delayed Luggage
Losing your baggage or having it delayed can be a nightmare, especially if you are abroad and far from home. Let’s say you need to go to your university the very day you land, and you don’t have proper clothes or other essentials. The insurer will reimburse for the necessary expenses up to the amount specified in the policy document.
Unfortunately, luggage mishaps are common when travelling internationally. With travel insurance, you are protected against this issue.
- Coverage for Theft
When studying abroad, you may be more vulnerable to theft, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local area. You could find yourself a victim of pickpocketing, or your personal items might get stolen from your accommodation. In case you lose your Passport, the insurer will not only compensate for the cost associated with obtaining a duplicate Passport but will also help with the process.
- Travel Delays
Flight delays, missed connections, and cancellations are common travel disruptions that can throw your plans off course. As a student, you might be on a tight schedule and budget, and an unexpected delay can be really stressful. Travel insurance can help you manage these disruptions by reimbursing additional expenses incurred due to such delays.
- Emergency Dental Coverage
Dental emergencies can knock at the most unexpected moments, and when you are abroad, the cost of treatment can be high. Travel insurance often includes emergency dental coverage, which helps you pay the cost of dental care for unexpected issues like toothaches or injuries.
Conclusion
A travel insurance policy is not just an added expense but an investment in your safety and well-being. Whether covering unexpected medical bills, protecting your belongings, or ensuring continuity in your studies, it provides invaluable support during your time abroad.