What is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance helps you manage unexpected expenses during your trips, whether it is a vacation, a business visit, or studying abroad. Travel can be unpredictable, and medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost check-in baggage, or flight delays can happen to anyone.

A travel insurance plan covers expenses such as hospitalization abroad, personal accidents, lost passports, delayed or lost check-in luggage, trip cancellations, and, in some cases, emergency evacuation or repatriation. Some plans also include personal liability or coverage for missed connecting flights.

Travel insurance in India is designed for different types of travelers, including students, senior citizens, and frequent international visitors. Policies vary, so it is essential to check the details of your plan to understand precisely what is covered. With the right coverage, you can travel confidently and focus on your journey, rather than worrying about potential risks.

Travel Insurance at a Glance

Features of Bajaj General Travel Insurance

Offered by Bajaj General Insurance, these features are designed to keep travellers protected from door to door.

● Medical Expenses and Repatriation

Covers emergency treatment, hospitalization, outpatient care, medical evacuation to the nearest facility, and repatriation to India when medically necessary.

● Trip Cancellation and Curtailment

Reimburses non-refundable prepaid costs if you must cancel or cut short your trip due to covered reasons such as medical emergencies or specified contingencies.

● Check-in Baggage Loss and Delay

Pays for permanent loss or theft of checked baggage and provides a delay allowance for essential purchases until bags are delivered.

● Passport Loss

Covers costs to obtain a new passport, including applicable fees and assistance with local authorities as per policy terms.

● Personal Accident Cover

Provides lump-sum benefits for accidental death and specified disabilities during the journey.

● Emergency Cash Advance

Arranges immediate funds in covered emergencies to manage essential expenses when access to money is disrupted.

● Trip Delay

Compensates additional reasonable expenses for meals and accommodation when flights are delayed beyond the stated threshold.

● Home Burglary

Offers protection for burglary at your insured residence in India while you are travelling, up to the limits specified.

● Personal Liability

Covers legal liability for accidental bodily injury to third parties or damage to their property during the trip, subject to exclusions.

● Cashless Treatment

Enables cashless medical treatment at overseas network hospitals, coordinated through the assistance provider.

● 24x7 Assistance

Round-the-clock support for medical guidance, hospital admission, travel rebooking help, and document replacement coordination.

● Pre-existing Conditions

Select plans, such as the Travel Ace Plan, may offer limited coverage for pre-existing medical conditions during life-threatening emergencies, as defined in the policy wording.

Types of Travel Insurance Policies You Can Buy

Individual Travel Insurance

● Coverage: Ideal for solo travellers, individual travel insurance policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, check-in baggage loss, and other unexpected events.

● Benefits: Provides financial protection for travel-related risks.

Plans Available:

● Travel Care: Covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, and unexpected costs abroad at an affordable price.

● Travel Secure: Offers extra coverage for medical emergencies, lost check-in baggage, and trip delays, including a Golfer's Hole-in-One benefit.

● Travel Value: Provides extended medical coverage up to $500,000 and emergency cash up to $1,500.

● Travel Asia: Designed for travellers heading to Asia, with flexible plans (Travel Asia Flair & Travel Asia Supreme) covering trips from 1 to 30 days.

Family Travel Insurance

● Coverage: Designed for families, family travel insurance policy provides a single plan covering all members.

● Benefits: Cost-effective and convenient, offering protection for the entire family.

Plan Available:

● Travel Family: Covers medical emergencies for families travelling abroad. Includes floater benefits for individuals within the family (self & spouse up to 60 years, two children under 21 years).

Student Travel Insurance

● Coverage: This plan is made for students travelling abroad. It covers medical emergencies, tuition fees, study interruptions, and other education-related costs. It also takes care of travel delays, personal accidents, and lost passports so students can focus on their studies without worrying about unexpected issues.

● Benefits: Gives students financial protection and peace of mind while they study or live overseas. With coverage for trip cancellations and emergency support, students and their families can feel secure throughout the journey.

Senior Citizen Travel Insurance

● Coverage: Tailored for travellers aged 61 to 70, this plan addresses age-related health concerns, medical emergencies, and trip interruptions. It may include hospitalisation for pre-existing conditions, emergency medical evacuation, and other travel-related assistance.

● Benefits: Helps senior travellers enjoy trips confidently, knowing they are protected against medical and travel uncertainties. Coverage for flight delays, lost baggage, and emergency support ensures a smooth and safe travel experience.

Corporate Travel Insurance

● Coverage: Designed for employees and businesses, this plan protects against risks during work-related travel, both in India and abroad. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, flight delays, and loss of important documents.

● Benefits: Ensures employees are safe and supported while travelling for work. Companies can reduce travel-related financial risks, and employees benefit from services like 24x7 assistance and cashless medical treatment abroad.

Reasons to Buy Bajaj General Insurance Travel Insurance

What's Covered Under Bajaj General Insurance Travel Insurance?

Travelling is exciting, but unexpected events can happen. Travel insurance serves as a safety net, providing financial protection and assistance when unforeseen circumstances arise. Understanding your policy helps you maximise its benefits.

Here are the key areas of coverage:

Medical Coverage

This covers medical emergencies, such as hospital stays, treatments, surgeries, and dental care. Some policies also cover pre-existing conditions, co-payments, and alternative therapies. Always check the coverage limits before buying a policy.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

If your trip is cancelled or cut short due to illness, natural disasters, or other unforeseen reasons, this coverage reimburses non-refundable costs.

Loss of Check-in Baggage and Personal Belongings

Losing your check-in luggage or valuables can be a stressful experience. Travel insurance covers lost, stolen, or damaged check-in baggage, including personal items like laptops and cameras. Check limits and exclusions for expensive items.

Travel Delays and Missed Connections

If your trip is delayed, your insurance may cover additional costs, such as hotel stays, meals, and transportation. Ensure you check the waiting time requirements and claim conditions.

Emergency Assistance Services

Many policies offer 24/7 helplines for medical emergencies, lost documents, or emergency evacuations. Be aware of the support available before you travel.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Some policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, while others provide coverage or require additional premiums. Be honest about your health history when purchasing insurance.

Policy Exclusions and Limitations

Read the policy carefully to understand what’s not covered, such as war, terrorism, or specific health conditions. Knowing these limits helps set realistic expectations.

What’s Not Covered by Bajaj General Insurance Travel Insurance Plan?

While Bajaj General Insurance travel insurance provides wide-ranging protection, certain situations are excluded from coverage. Key exclusions include:

● Pre-existing Conditions: Any disability or injury arising from a medical condition that existed before purchasing the policy is generally not covered.

● Intoxication: Accidents occurring while under the influence of alcohol or drugs are excluded.

● Routine Examination: Routine check-ups, vaccinations, or general health supplements (like vitamins) are not covered for otherwise healthy travellers.

● Self-Inflicted Injuries: Injuries resulting from intentional harm or attempted suicide are excluded.

● Criminal or Unlawful Acts: Any actual or attempted engagement in criminal or unlawful acts is not covered.

● Non-Passenger Flyer: Injuries sustained while travelling in an aircraft in any capacity other than as a passenger on a licensed airline are excluded.

● War and Related Perils: Injuries or death resulting from war, civil unrest, or acts of terrorism are typically excluded from coverage.

Always review the policy document thoroughly to understand all exclusions and ensure you are fully aware of what is and isn’t covered.

Coverage Based on Trip Classification

Solo Trip and Family Trip

Overseas Travel Insurance Premium Details (₹ 201, excluding GST) – Key Policy Parameters

This overseas travel insurance plan is designed for travellers under 50 years of age who want reliable global coverage, excluding the U.S. and Canada. At a premium of just ₹ 201 for 15 days (approximately ₹ 13 per day*), it provides essential protection against unforeseen medical expenses due to illness or injury abroad. The plan ensures affordable financial security, making it an excellent choice for short-term international trips where peace of mind and medical coverage are priorities.

Add-on Covers Available in Travel Insurance

Travelling brings exciting experiences, but unexpected situations can arise. Add-on covers in travel insurance offer extra protection to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Let’s explore these valuable add-ons.

Maximise Your Protection with Travel Insurance Add-Ons

Enhance your travel insurance with add-on covers – an extra layer of financial security. More add-ons mean a higher premium, so choose wisely. Here’s what our travel insurance includes:

Standard Add-on Covers

● Trip Delay Cover – Reimburses financial losses due to trip delays or cancellations within policy limits, applicable for single trips, round trips, or multiple journeys.

● Schengen Cover – Covers medical repatriation, emergency hospitalisation, or unfortunate events like a death while travelling in Schengen countries.

● Compassionate Visit Cover – Covers travel expenses for a family member in case of an emergency.

● Emergency Hotel Accommodation – Covers hotel expenses for a family member or both the insured and their family in urgent situations.

● Escort for Minor Child – Ensures a minor travelling with you is safely escorted home in case of an emergency.

● Loss of Personal Belongings – Covers losses like misplaced check-in luggage or passports, reducing travel disruptions.

● Replacement and Rearrangement of Staff – Helps manage unforeseen staffing issues with clear guidelines and limits.

Optional Covers

These extra features offer added security for different travel needs:

● Pre-existing Illness Cover: Covers medical conditions you had before buying the policy.

● HIV and AIDS Cover: Provides financial support for HIV & AIDS-related complications.

● Maternity and Baby Cover: Covers pregnancy-related expenses from day one.

● Mental Illness and Alcohol: Related Disorders Cover – Extends coverage to mental health and alcohol-related medical issues.

COVID-19 Coverage with Bajaj General Insurance Travel Insurance

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly changed how we plan and experience travel, making travel insurance more important than before. One of the most common questions is whether policies cover pandemic-related risks. Bajaj General Insurance includes COVID-19 coverage in its travel insurance plans, subject to specific terms and conditions.

COVID-19 and Travel Insurance

Insurers have updated their plans to include pandemic-related events, but the scope of coverage can differ.

Here are some key areas to look for when reviewing your policy:

● Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Some policies cover cancellations if you test positive for COVID-19, while others may offer Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons for greater flexibility.

● Medical Expenses & Emergency Assistance: If you contract COVID-19 during your trip, most policies cover hospitalisation, treatment, and in some cases, emergency evacuation.

● Quarantine & Delays: Certain plans reimburse accommodation and meal costs if you are required to quarantine abroad.

● Testing Costs: Tests are usually covered only if they are medically necessary as part of treatment.

Always check your policy wording carefully to know exactly what is included and excluded.

COVID-19 Coverage with Bajaj Travel Insurance

Eligibility Criteria and Basic Requirements for Buying Travel Insurance in India

Eligibility varies by provider, usually for those aged 18 to 70. Policies cover leisure, business, or education trips for varying durations. Pre-existing conditions may affect coverage, requiring disclosure. Citizenship and residence can also impact eligibility.

Review the insurer’s criteria and provide accurate details to avoid claim issues.

What are the Factors that affect your Travel Insurance Premium?

● Age & Health: Older travellers and those with medical conditions pay more. Insurers consider the likelihood of medical emergencies when calculating premiums.

● Members Covered: More insured members mean higher costs. Family floater plans generally have a higher premium than individual policies.

● Destination: Risky or high-cost healthcare locations increase premiums. Countries with political instability or extreme weather conditions may also lead to higher rates.

● Trip Duration: Longer trips lead to higher charges. Extended coverage increases the insurer’s risk exposure.

● Coverage Type: Comprehensive plans cost more. Additional add-ons, such as adventure sports cover, further raise the premium.

● Pre-existing Conditions: Disclosing medical history affects pricing. Some insurers may impose exclusions or higher deductibles for certain conditions.

● Trip Disruptions: Higher coverage for cancellations/delays raises costs. Policies covering unexpected events like job loss or natural disasters tend to be pricier.

● Deductibles & Limits: Lower deductibles and higher coverage increase premiums. Opting for a higher deductible can reduce costs but increases out-of-pocket expenses during claims.

Choosing the right balance ensures cost-effective coverage while meeting your travel needs.

How is the Premium Calculated for Travel Insurance Plans?

The premium for travel insurance is not the same for everyone. It depends on several factors related to the traveller, the destination, the duration of the trip, and the type of plan chosen. Understanding these factors helps buyers select the right coverage without overspending. Here are the key elements that influence travel insurance premium calculation:

● Age of the Traveller
Premiums are usually higher for older travellers, especially senior citizens, as the chances of medical emergencies increase with age.

● Destination of Travel
Travelling to countries with expensive healthcare facilities (like the USA, Canada, or Europe) attracts higher premiums compared to destinations in Asia or the Middle East.

● Duration of the Trip
Longer trips carry higher risks of illness, accidents, or delays, so premiums increase proportionately with the number of travel days.

● Type of Travel Insurance Plan
Whether it’s an individual, family, student, or senior citizen plan, the nature of coverage impacts the cost. Group policies may offer online savings compared to multiple individual policies.

● Coverage Amount (Sum Insured)
A higher sum insured leads to a higher premium, but it provides greater protection for medical and non-medical expenses during the trip.

● Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Disclosing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or heart ailments may increase the premium. Some insurers offer coverage with an additional loading cost.

● Purpose of Travel
Business, leisure, education, or adventure sports all have different risk levels. For example, plans covering adventure sports usually come at a higher premium.

● Add-On Benefits
Optional covers like trip cancellation, check-in baggage delay, passport loss, or emergency cash increase the overall premium.

● Claim History
If the traveller has made frequent claims in the past, some insurers may adjust the premium accordingly.

How to Save On Travel Insurance Premiums?

Travel insurance is essential for protecting your trip, but that doesn't mean you have to break the bank. Here are savvy ways to trim travel insurance premiums without compromising coverage.

● Compare Quotes

Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Shop around and compare quotes from different providers. Online comparison tools make it easy to identify cost-effective options that suit your needs.

● Opt for Basic Coverage

Evaluate your travel needs and choose a travel insurance policy that aligns with them. Opting for basic coverage without unnecessary add-ons can significantly reduce premiums. Tailor your plan to match your specific requirements.

● Consider Annual Policies

If you're a frequent traveller, an annual policy might be more cost-effective than purchasing coverage for each trip individually. This approach can lead to substantial savings in the long run.

● Increase Deductibles

Choosing a higher deductible often results in lower premiums. Assess your risk tolerance and financial capability to determine a deductible that strikes the right balance between savings and coverage.

● Exclude Unnecessary Coverage

Review the policy details and exclude coverage for situations unlikely to affect your trip. For instance, if your credit card provides rental car insurance, there's no need for similar coverage in your travel insurance policy.

● Book Early

Securing travel insurance early can result in lower premiums. Booking well in advance allows you to lock in rates and provides peace of mind with extended coverage against unforeseen events.

● Group Plans

If travelling with family or a group, inquire about group discounts. Some insurers offer discounted rates for multiple travellers, making it a cost-effective option for families or friends embarking on a journey together.

● Maintain Good Health

Your health directly affects premiums. Stay healthy and disclose accurate medical information to avoid unnecessary surcharges. Some insurers offer discounts for policyholders with a clean bill of health.

By implementing these strategies, travellers can enjoy comprehensive coverage while keeping travel insurance premiums within a budget-friendly range. Whether you're a frequent globetrotter or embarking on a one-time adventure, smart choices can lead to significant savings without compromising on protection.

How Do I Make a Travel Insurance Claim?

Filing a claim with Bajaj General Insurance is designed to be transparent and straightforward, whether you need cashless treatment abroad or reimbursement after your trip. Here’s how you can proceed:

For Cashless Medical Cover (Overseas Hospitalisation above USD 500)

● Submit Documents Online: Initiate your claim by uploading the required documents through the insurer’s portal or assistance helpline.

● Guarantee of Payment: After verification, a Payment Guarantee Letter will be sent directly to the hospital so you can proceed with treatment without paying upfront.

● Complete Formalities: If additional details are needed, submit them promptly to ensure a hassle-free experience.

For Reimbursement Claims (Check-In Baggage, Flight Delays, Medical Bills, etc.)

● Collect and Submit Documents: Gather all necessary original documents and paid receipts, then submit them to the Bajaj Health Insurance Health Administration Team (HAT).

● Verification & Settlement: Once verified, the approved amount will be credited to your Indian bank account via NEFT within 10 working days.

● Follow-Up for Missing Papers: If documents are incomplete, you’ll receive an email notification. Submit the pending documents within 45 days; otherwise, the claim will be closed. Policy deductibles apply as per your plan.

Documents Required for Travel Insurance Claims

When filing a travel insurance claim with Bajaj General Insurance, it’s important to submit the correct set of documents. Providing accurate and complete paperwork helps ensure faster claim settlement.

Below are the common and specific documents you may need to provide:

General / Common Documents (Required for Most Claims)

● Completed and signed Claim Form

● Copy of Policy Document (with policy number, insured’s name, travel dates)

● Copy of Passport and Visa (with entry and exit stamps)

● Travel tickets and boarding passes

● Proof of itinerary and accommodation (hotel booking, travel schedule, etc.)

● Identity proof (government-issued ID)

● Cancelled cheque or bank details (for NEFT claim settlement)

Claim-Specific Documents

1. Medical Emergency / Hospitalisation

● Medical reports, diagnostic test results, and discharge summary

● Original hospital and pharmacy bills with receipts

● Attending Physician’s Statement (APS)

● Documents for emergency evacuation or repatriation (if applicable)

2. Accidental Death / Permanent Disability / Repatriation

● Death certificate (in English or translated copy)

● Coroner’s/post-mortem report (if applicable)

● FIR or police report (if accident-related)

● Medical records and treatment papers

● Proof of travel (tickets, boarding pass)

3. Loss or Delay of Check-in Baggage

● Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the airline

● Check-in Baggage tag copies and boarding passes

● Written confirmation from the airline regarding the delay or loss

● Bills/receipts for essential purchases made during the delay

4. Flight Delay / Trip Cancellation / Missed Connection

● Proof of delay/cancellation from the airline (with reason)

● Original and revised travel tickets

● Boarding passes

● Bills/receipts for additional expenses (accommodation, meals, etc.)

5. Loss of Passport

● FIR or police report confirming loss/theft

● Copy of old and new passports

● Receipts for passport replacement expenses

● Copy of travel ticket and visa

6. Hijack Incident

● A detailed written account of the incident by the insured

● Official confirmation/letter from the airline

● Copy of ticket and boarding pass

7. Study Interruption (Student Travel Insurance)

● Medical certificate or reports (if health-related)

● Bills/receipts of tuition fees paid in advance

● Letter from the university confirming inability to attend classes or continue the semester

● Admission proof and travel details

Important Notes

● All bills must be original paid receipts; photocopies are not accepted unless specified.

● Incomplete documentation may delay or result in the claim being closed.

● Some claims may require additional supporting papers, which the claims team will request if necessary.

When, Where, and How to Choose Travel Insurance?

Planning a trip is exciting, but it also comes with uncertainties such as medical emergencies, lost check-in baggage, or sudden cancellations. This is where travel insurance becomes essential. Knowing when to buy it, where it applies, and how to select the right plan helps you stay protected throughout your journey. With the right coverage, you can travel with confidence, whether it’s for leisure, work, or study abroad.

When to Buy Travel Insurance?

Ideally, purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, at least 10–15 days prior to departure. Early purchase ensures you’re covered if your trip is cancelled due to unforeseen events like illness, natural disasters, or work-related emergencies. Last-minute policies may not offer the same level of protection for cancellations or pre-departure risks.

Where to Buy Travel Insurance?

Always choose a reliable insurer with strong customer support and simple digital processes. With Bajaj General Insurance, you can easily compare plans online, customise coverage to your needs, and purchase a policy within minutes. A 24x7 assistance helpline, a wide network of hospitals, and paperless claim settlement make it convenient for travellers across 216+ countries.

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance?

Selecting the right travel insurance plan depends on your travel needs, health profile, and destination. A clear understanding of these factors ensures you get adequate protection without overspending. Below are the most important aspects to review before buying a policy:

● Travel Frequency
Frequent travellers may find annual multi-trip plans more cost-effective than purchasing multiple single-trip policies.

● Age of the Traveller
Policies differ by age group. Students can choose Student Travel Insurance, while senior citizens should opt for a Senior Citizen Travel Plan with age-specific health coverage.

● Trip Duration
Short vacations may only need basic cover, while longer stays or overseas assignments require comprehensive plans with extended medical benefits.

● Destination
Countries with higher medical expenses, such as the USA and Europe, require a higher sum insured. Always confirm that your chosen policy is valid in the destination country.

● Type of Travel
Individual plans are suitable for solo trips, while a Family Floater Plan provides wider protection for multiple members at a competitive premium.

● Pre-existing Conditions
Travellers must disclose pre-existing medical conditions. Selected Bajaj General Insurance plans, such as Travel Ace, include limited coverage for these conditions.

● Nature of Activities
Adventure sports or high-risk activities often require specific add-ons. Business travellers should prioritise trip cancellation and delay benefits.

Travel Insurance Plan Comparison: Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing the right travel insurance plan depends on your travel style and purpose. An individual plan suits solo travellers, while a family plan offers joint protection for you, your spouse, and dependent children. Students travelling abroad can opt for student travel insurance, which goes beyond medical cover to include tuition fees, study interruptions, and even laptops. We have highlighted the key differences among these plans, making it easier to compare benefits and pick the one best suited to your needs.

Countries Where Travel Insurance Policy is Mandatory

International travel insurance is more than just peace of mind — in many countries, it’s a legal requirement for entry. Governments want to ensure that visitors can afford medical treatment, emergencies, or evacuation without burdening their system. This is why nations like those in the Schengen Area mandate minimum coverage of EUR 30,000, while countries such as Cuba, Ecuador, and the UAE require proof of valid travel insurance before a visa is issued or upon arrival. Without this confirmation, your entry or visa approval may be denied.

Here’s a list of countries where travel insurance is mandatory for international travellers:

Travel Insurance Myths and Facts

When it comes to travel insurance, many misconceptions can mislead travellers. Let’s clear up some common myths with facts:

Myth: Travel insurance is only for international trips.
Fact: Domestic travel insurance exists too, covering trip cancellations, accidents, and medical emergencies within India.

Myth: It only covers medical emergencies.
Fact: Travel insurance also covers check-in baggage loss, passport loss, trip delays or cancellations, and personal liability.

Myth: Young and healthy travellers don’t need insurance.
Fact: Even fit travellers can face risks like flight cancellations, lost check-in baggage, or accidents abroad.

Myth: All policies are the same.
Fact: Each plan differs in coverage, exclusions, add-ons, and claim processes. Always compare before buying.

Myth: Claims are too difficult to process.
Fact: Providers like Bajaj General Insurance now offer app-based, paperless, and 24x7 claim settlement for faster processing.

Travel Insurance Terminologies

Understanding basic terms in travel insurance helps you make informed choices. Here are some common ones:

● Premium: The amount you pay to the insurer for purchasing travel insurance coverage.

● Sum Insured: The maximum financial coverage available under your policy for medical or non-medical claims.

● Deductible: A fixed portion of expenses you must pay before the insurer settles your claim.

● Cashless Facility: A service where the insurer pays medical expenses directly to the hospital, without you paying upfront.

● Reimbursement: The process where you pay first and later submit bills to the insurer for repayment.

● Exclusions: Specific conditions or events not covered by the travel insurance plan, such as pre-existing illnesses (unless specified).

● Pre-existing Condition: A medical illness or injury you already had before buying the travel insurance policy.

● Policy Period: The duration for which the travel insurance plan is valid, usually aligned with your trip dates.

● Add-on Cover: Optional benefits like adventure sports cover, trip cancellation, or check-in baggage delay protection that enhance the policy.

● Emergency Evacuation: The cost of transporting you to the nearest medical facility or back to India during a health crisis abroad.

● Personal Liability: Coverage for damages or injuries caused to a third party while travelling.