Schengen Travel Plan Comparison

How to Buy the Best  Travel Insurance for Europe: Things to Consider

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Many of us fall into the trap of considering travel insurance as just another formality before travelling. However, it is unwise to do or think so. This might cause you to land in a situation wherein the Schengen travel insurance cover falls short leading to distress, both financially and mentally. Thus, make sure you consider a number of factors while comparing travel plans for Europe before signing on the dotted line.

Country

The risks you are exposed to vary depending on the country/area you will be visiting in Europe. Thus, it is important to choose the right amount/type of coverage accordingly.  When it comes to Europe, there are 26 nations that come under the ambit of Schengen regulations. This covers almost the entirety of Europe. As per Schengen rules, you can travel to all Schengen countries with a single visa and a travel insurance policy. Additionally, availing a travel insurance policy is mandatory with a minimum sum insured of 30,000 €.

Travel Medical Insurance

As a general rule of the thumb, medical coverage is the most integral aspect of any travel​ insurance policy​. This holds true, especially if you are travelling to Europe. Typically, the cost of medical expenses is pretty high in western nations such as the US, Canada and Europe. Hence, it is recommended that you choose an appropriate sum insured amount considering the European destination you are travelling to.​

Baggage and personal items cover

 
Typically, a travel insurance policy covers loss of checked-in baggage at the airport. Make sure you check the policy wordings for the details as well as the exclusions. It also covers personal items up to pre-defined limits depending on the travel insurance company and the selected plan. Additionally, passport loss is covered too. If you lose your passport, the insurance company will bear the cost of issuing a new/duplicate passport. 

Sports and Adventure activities

Due to high risk perception, adventure sports and related activities are not generally covered in a travel policy. That said if you plan to indulge in adventurous activities in Europe, with an add-on request you can avail such coverage, which would entail a rise in premium. 

Flight cancellation cover

With this cover, you will get the cost of flight tickets refunded upon flight cancellation due to reasons such as bad weather. For a better understanding of the inclusions and exclusions, go through your European travel insurance policy thoroughly. 

Benefits

The number and the degree of benefits offered by a travel insurance policy vary across companies. Thus make sure to compare travel insurance online to avail the best travel insurance European plan from India that covers all your requirements. 

Pre-existing diseases

If you are having a pre-existing medical condition such as diabetes or asthma, it is crucial to make sure you are covered against them. This will secure you from the financial implications if your condition aggravates during the trip and are admitted to a hospital. However, make sure to check the policy wording for exclusions to pre-existing diseases. 

With the above pointers in place, you will be in better position to choose the best travel insurance plan for your next European trip. The basic idea is to ensure that you compare the plans and policies prudently, taking your European travel needs and priorities into consideration.

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