WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE OFFERED BY AIRLINE WEBSITES

Introduction

As we decide to take a trip and insure our travel, we need to make sure we choose the right plan that helps us get the most coverage and protection. But most of the times, all we do is choose any plan the airline company or agent that is booking our travel tickets has to offer. We fail to see the benefits and cover before purchasing such travel insurance offered by airline websites. Let’s take a look at things we need to consider while booking travel insurance and what is generally offered by airline websites under travel insurance.

 

Importance of travel insurance

While we take a long trip or travel far or even abroad one can face unforeseen scenarios like flight cancellation, loss of luggage or passport and emergency medical care. These situations can lead to numerous sudden financial losses. So, how can we make sure our travel is secure without a burden on our finance. The answer is – only by travel insurance. In case of any flight cancellation the insurer will reimburse the cost of most of the bookings you made, refundable or not - covering the trip cancellation charges. A right plan also keeps you financially safe from any unexpected expenses like losing your baggage or your passport emergency medical care and more. So, choosing the right plan to meet your needs will help compensate you appropriately depending on the type of plan you buy.

 

 

Travel insurance offered by airline websites

While booking your flight tickets, nowadays airline websites offer instant travel insurance as well. Such insurance plans though cheaper in cost, they offer very mild cover. Generally, the benefits under travel insurance offered by airline websites include;

• Limited coverage for medical treatment due to accident or illness during travelling
• Any emergency hotel accommodation
• In case of flight delay
• For trip curtailment coverage of personal accident leading to disablement or death
• In indemnification against legal liability
• In case of loss of your checked-in baggage

 

Though the airline websites offer basic insurance to your travel, depending on your requirement, you must always compare and purchase. It will be ideal to assess your trip and the risk associated with your plans before selecting the insurance plan offered by any airline website.

 

To buy or Not to buy travel insurance from airline websites

While booking a long travel, with plenty of reservations made, it is best if you buy a plan that can cover all your costs in case of any cancellation. Remember, airline websites offer limited benefits and a very basic coverage of limited flight cancellation, baggage loss, medical treatment, flight delays or trip cancellation. In case of any adventurous trip chosen and any special circumstances, for instance - pre-booked excursions or non-refundable hotel expenses there is no option to include it in travel insurance offered by airline websites neither can it be chosen as an Add-on cover under their plan. Most airline travel insurance plans have gaps in coverage and only cover you for a fixed duration. Like say for 30 days unlike a standalone travel insurance plan from an insurance company, where you can buy a plan of your choice for any duration.Another vital point is that the coverage benefits are only applicable when you are travelling with the same airline. For instance, say you are travelling abroad, and your trip comprises of multiple flights to different cities via different airline providers. In such case, you will not get coverage for specific benefits as your provider is varying too.

 

Conclusion

No matter a standalone or an airline travel insurance plan, whichever you choose, it is wise to go through the plan thoroughly and select the one which covers greater risk and protects more. Especially which is connected with the place you will be travelling to.

 

FAQs – Frequently asked questions.

Let's take a look at some frequent queries on travel insurance offered by airline websites;

Q1. Is every airline travel insurance safe and good?

No, not necessarily. It is advisable to always check for every detail while purchasing travel insurance from an airline website as well. Look for the exact coverage and benefits in-depth before choosing your travel insurance- be it from an airline website.

Q2. Is it important to check reputation of airline website before buying their travel insurance?

Yes, always check for reliability of airline website along with all the details of travel insurance you planning to buy from them. Check for their financial stability, claim settlement ratio, and review of services and quality before choosing your travel insurance plan.

Q3. Can travel insurance plan booked through airline website be customized?

No, for customized travel insurance you need to opt for plans from an insurance company only. Airline website plans are highly limited and basic in coverage.