What Travel Insurance Doesn't Cover

<p>Few would dispute the immense benefits travel insurance offers to even the most meticulous of travellers. However, several travellers continue to be eluded of these benefits as more often than not they pick up a travel insurance product without examination of key policy features. Simple internet research throws enough light on cheapest available options, benefits and ease of the claims process. But while we lay great emphasis on knowing what all our travel insurance policy covers, most do not realise that it’s equally important to be aware of what a policy does not cover.<br><br>Here are some exceptions and exclusions that travelers will not get coverage on:<br><br><strong>Pre-existing Illnesses:</strong> This is the most common exclusion in insurance policies. A pre-existing illness is something that has happened or exists before the policy was taken. While traveling, if you suffer from a health problem related to the same condition, your treatment will not be covered.<br><br><strong>Baggage Delayed for Less Than 24 hours (outbound flights only):</strong> Usually for expenses for baggage delayed less than 24 hours aren’t reimbursed. It's best to carry on with what you need for at least a day after you reach your destination.<br><br><strong>Loss of passport or documents: </strong>Thefts are rampant and caution with passport and important travel documents is a must. There is no cover for items left unattended in a public place. If documents are stolen or lost, a written report with the local law enforcement agencies is a mandatory to file a claim.<br><br><strong>Adventurous Sports and Activities: </strong>Injuries while trying out extreme sports may not be covered. The policy may specifically list activities or sports that the insurance firm considers dangerous.&nbsp; Common sports like mountain climbing, parasailing, hand gliding or bungee jumping are not covered by any travel insurance policy.<br><br><strong>Limits on Trip Duration</strong>: While looking for which travel insurance policy to go for, it's important to know how many consecutive days abroad would be covered for. The limits vary on insurer to insurer, and if you go over this limit, even if it's only by a day, you will nullify your insurance.<br><br><strong>Your Trip Cancels On You: </strong>Many trip cancellations apply only when you cancel the trip yourself. However, if the tour-company or travel agent cancels it, the insurance company does not cover expenses. While you will receive a refund from the company, other expenditures incurred, such as air fare or hotel and accommodation expenses, are not covered by your insurance policy.<br><br><strong>Alcohol and Drugs Influences</strong>: Relaxing and taking it easy during a holiday is what everyone looks forward to. However, if you're involved in an accident when you're under the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drugs, your policy is not likely to cover the expenses.Check exactly what situations your policy will pay for, and if you're uncertain, ask your agent or policy provider for clarification before buying the insurance and carry your policy documentation with you when you're away so you can refer to it, if necessary.<br><br><strong>Subrahmanyam B., Senior Vice President, Bharti AXA General Insurance.</strong></p>