Difference Between Domestic and International Travel Insurance

Travelling is fun, and we all want to experience it every now and then. However, while travelling we must think of our safety, which should be the priority. Safety means protection from all such risks, mishaps and things that can go wrong, ruin your holiday and put you under stress. To stay protected against any such unanticipated events, you must buy travel insurance. Though it is often overlooked, travel insurance ensures you are protected from every adversity - baggage loss, loss of document, passport, etc. 

What is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a contract between you and the insurance company that promises to protect you from every adversity that might occur when you travel. But the travel insurance you buy for a domestic trip differs from the one you buy for your international trip. This is because travelling to another country means you do not have the same financial or medical assistance. Hence, it is important to understand the difference between domestic and international travel insurance before buying any. 

What is the Difference Between Domestic and International Travel Insurance?

Though the coverage and inclusion seem the same for domestic and international travel insurance, there are several differences between the two. Below we have curated several points which will help you understand the difference between the two - 

Health Coverage: International travel insurance covers all health-related concerns except for pre-existing health conditions. This is almost the same as domestic insurance. However, in some cases, domestic travel insurance does not cover accidental death or any funeral-related costs. However, both insurance covers the expenses of repatriation of the corpse. Travel Delays: International travel insurance covers flight delays, cancellations, and emergency hotel expenses. However, domestic insurance does not cover and reimburse for the flight cancellation until proper proof of cancellation and delay is provided. International trips are usually expensive, so buying insurance that covers emergencies that lead to flight delays or cancellations is wise. Risk Coverage: Domestic travels are relatively less risky. However, several risks are involved while travelling abroad, including plane hijacking, personal accidents, trip abandonment, personal liability, etc. The occurrence of these incidents is very low in one’s country. Another difference is that international travel insurance covers you from the covers from injury or harm caused due to terrorism. Other Emergencies: Other emergencies include - the loss of a passport and other important documents. These are covered in international travel insurance but not in domestic travel insurance. This is because it is comparatively easier for you to replace their documents while you are in your home country. Whereas it is impossible to retrieve the documents while you are abroad. International travel insurance also covers evacuation for home countries, whereas domestic travel insurance does not. Also, an international travel insurance company offers daily emergency cash in case of total theft.

There are several types of travel insurance under domestic and international travel insurance, like - individual travel insurance, senior citizen travel insurance, group travel insurance, and many more. No matter what insurance you choose, you must understand that the coverage varies depending on the company. Always start with thoroughly researching what the companies offer - the exclusion, inclusion, coverage, and many more. Compare the travel insurance plans and quotes, and see the type of insurance available depending on your need and requirements.