Embarking on a journey to a foreign land is an exhilarating experience filled with endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re studying, working, or simply indulging in a well-deserved vacation, being away from home can expose you to a range of unforeseen risks. While travel insurance is often associated with pre-trip planning, what happens if you’re already abroad and haven’t secured coverage? Can you buy travel insurance once abroad?
In this blog post, we delve into the specifics of what you should do if you want to buy travel insurance while abroad. From unexpected medical emergencies to lost belongings and travel disruptions, travel insurance can provide the much-needed peace of mind and financial protection, regardless of your location. So, while it’s better to buy travel insurance before you embark on your trip, here’s what you need to know about getting travel insurance, already abroad.
Does Regular Insurance Provide Overseas Protection?
Regular insurance, (like health insurance or household insurance), doesn’t usually provide any sort of trip protection. While some policies may provide some coverage while you are abroad, it is important to understand the limitations and exclusions. In most cases, regular insurance policies have limited or no coverage outside your home country or for international travel purposes.
These types of insurance probably don’t include non-emergency medical care, repatriation, or medical evacuation. In addition, they may not cover certain activities or sports that are considered high-risk.
Moreover, regular insurance policies generally do not provide coverage for travel-related risks such as trip cancellation, trip interruption, or baggage loss. These are common scenarios that travelers may encounter, and without appropriate travel insurance, you could face significant financial losses.
So, should you buy travel insurance when traveling abroad? Yes.
Purchasing dedicated travel insurance that covers you while you are already overseas, is a wise decision to ensure comprehensive protection throughout your journey. Even then, it’s crucial to review your policy carefully and consult with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage while abroad.
What Does Travel Insurance Typically Cover?
Need travel insurance but already abroad? Here’s what you should know about travel insurance coverage.
As with all travel insurance coverage – all policies differ. Typically travel insurance offers a wide range of coverage to protect you during your travels. While the specific coverage may vary depending on the policy and provider, these are some common components that are usually included in travel insurance:
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Reimburses you for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, injury, or certain emergencies.
- Medical Expenses: Covers the cost of medical treatment if you become ill or injured while traveling, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and medication. This coverage may also include emergency medical evacuation or repatriation to your home country.
- Lost or Delayed Baggage: Provides compensation for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage, as well as coverage for essential items if your baggage is delayed.
- Travel Delay: Reimburses you for additional expenses incurred due to a covered delay, such as accommodations, meals, and transportation.
- Personal Liability: Offers coverage if you cause damage to property or injure someone while traveling.
- Emergency Assistance: Provides 24/7 access to a helpline for emergency assistance, including medical advice, legal referrals, and travel-related support.
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment: Offers a benefit to your beneficiaries or yourself in the event of accidental death or severe injury during your trip.
If you’re thinking of getting travel insurance when you are already abroad, it’s important to note that coverage may vary among different travel insurance plans, and additional options like rental car coverage, adventure sports coverage, and pre-existing medical conditions coverage may be available as add-ons or as part of specialized policies. Reading the policy details carefully and consulting with the insurance provider will help you understand what is specifically included in your travel insurance coverage.
Can You Buy Travel Insurance Once Abroad?
Yes, it is indeed possible to buy travel insurance even if you are already abroad. While most travel insurance policies are designed to be purchased before you commence your journey, several insurance providers offer options for travel insurance already abroad.
Many insurance companies have specific policies tailored to meet the needs of individuals who want to buy travel insurance already abroad. These policies typically provide coverage for the remainder of your trip duration, allowing you to obtain the necessary protection while you are away from home.
When you buy travel insurance from abroad, it is important to consider a few factors. Firstly, make sure to choose a reputable insurance provider with a track record of reliable service. Carefully review the policy details to understand the coverage, limits, and exclusions. It is also crucial to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions or other relevant information accurately to ensure that you are adequately covered.
While buying travel insurance after you have commenced your trip may limit your coverage options, it is still a prudent step to protect yourself from unexpected events and emergencies that may arise during your time abroad. Be sure to compare different insurance options, understand the terms and conditions, and select a policy that best suits your specific needs while you are already abroad.
How to Find the Best Travel Insurance Company That Offers Insurance When You’re Already Abroad?
So now that you know that you can buy travel insurance if already abroad, you need to find the best travel insurance policy for your needs. Finding the best travel insurance company that offers insurance when you’re already abroad requires a bit of research and consideration.
Here are some steps to help you find the right insurance provider for travel insurance when already abroad:
- Do Some Online Research: Start by doing an online search to identify reputable insurance companies that offer coverage for individuals already abroad. A simple Google search: “buy travel insurance when already abroad” or “best travel insurance when already abroad” are two good searches to try. It’s also important to look for companies with positive reviews, a strong reputation, and experience in providing travel insurance already abroad.
- Coverage Options: When it comes to buying travel insurance whilst abroad, it’s super important to review the coverage options provided by different insurance companies. Pay attention to the specific coverage areas, such as medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and emergency assistance. Ensure that the policy includes the coverage you need during your time abroad.
- Policy Exclusions and Limitations: Carefully read through the policy exclusions and limitations to understand what is covered and what’s not. Look for any specific restrictions or conditions that may affect your situation, such as age limits, pre-existing medical conditions, or high-risk activities.
- Cost and Value: Compare the cost of premiums among different insurance providers, but also consider the value offered. Cheaper policies may have limited coverage or higher deductibles, while slightly higher-priced options may provide more comprehensive protection. Assess the overall value based on the coverage provided and your specific needs.
- Customer Service and Claims Process: Look for insurance companies with a reputation for excellent customer service. Check if they have a 24/7 helpline or dedicated assistance for emergencies. Research the claims process to ensure it is straightforward and hassle-free.
- Seek Recommendations: Ask fellow travelers, friends, or family members who have purchased travel insurance while abroad for recommendations and insights based on their experiences.
- Consult with Insurance Agents: Reach out to insurance agents or brokers who specialize in travel insurance. They can provide personalized advice and help you navigate through the available options and buy travel insurance abroad that meets your needs.
Getting travel insurance while already abroad, may not be ideal, but by following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can find the best travel insurance company that offers insurance when you’re already abroad. Remember to assess your specific needs, carefully review policies, and choose a reliable provider that gives you peace of mind during your travels.
What to Keep in Mind Before Buying Travel Insurance Already Abroad
If you need to purchase travel insurance while you’re already abroad, there are some things you need to keep in mind before you buy coverage. Here are some things to consider before you buy travel insurance already abroad:
- Waiting Periods
It’s important to be aware that some insurers impose a waiting period before your travel insurance coverage becomes effective. The waiting period can range from a few hours to up to 36 hours, depending on the insurance provider. Make sure you carefully review the policy wording and understand the waiting period requirements before you buy travel insurance already abroad.
- Policy Coverage
Thoroughly understanding the coverage provided by a travel insurance policy is essential. Some policies may not cover pre-existing conditions, such as injuries or illnesses that occurred prior to your trip. Additionally, travel insurance policies typically have a maximum duration of 12 months. If you anticipate needing an extension while abroad, inquire with the insurer about the possibility of extending the policy before making a purchase.
Can you have full coverage when already overseas? It’s possible.
Selecting the right travel insurance can provide you with comprehensive coverage even when you’re already abroad. In general, travel insurers that cater to individuals purchasing insurance while overseas offer similar coverage levels as their other plans, unless otherwise specified. If you need to get travel insurance already abroad, these are the key areas of coverage to consider:
- Overseas medical assistance and hospital expenses
- Coverage for hospitalization or death
- Coverage for valuable belongings
- Cancellation and refunds
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when buying travel insurance while already abroad. Take the time to review policy details, understand the coverage provided, and choose a reliable insurance provider that meets your specific needs.
How to Get Travel Insurance When Already Abroad
If you need to buy travel insurance whilst abroad, it’s important to consult with insurance experts or brokers to ensure you find a suitable policy for your needs. Here’s how to get travel insurance if you’re already abroad:
- Find and compare policies. Research online and contact insurance providers to find some policy options – make sure you look for companies that specialize in this kind of coverage.
- Review policy details. The point of buying travel insurance when already abroad will be providing you with the trip coverage you need so make sure you review policy details thoroughly to ensure it covers all necessary aspects.
- Provide accurate details. When it comes to getting travel insurance already abroad, it’s important that you provide accurate information about your current location, trip details, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
- Buy the policy. Once you’ve compared different options, reviewed policy details, and assessed your needs, proceed to purchase the travel insurance policy that best aligns with your requirements. Make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before finalizing the purchase.
By following these basic steps, you can increase your chances of obtaining travel insurance coverage while already abroad. Remember to do thorough research, understand the policy details, and choose a reputable insurance provider that offers comprehensive protection for your specific travel needs.
Leading Companies to Buy Travel Insurance from If You’re Already Abroad
Obtaining travel insurance while already abroad can offer valuable protection and enhance your travel experience by minimizing potential risks and uncertainties.
If you’re considering buying travel insurance while already abroad, here are some leading insurance companies to consider, along with an overview of what their typical policies cover. These insurance providers have partnered with Air Doctor, which means you can access the Air Doctor service as part of your coverage. This service allows you to find a local doctor anywhere, anytime, without having to pay out-of-pocket (as your insurance provider covers the cost) or go through the hassle of filing a claim.
Please note it is probably best to contact each insurance provider directly, to purchase travel insurance while abroad.
Note: All policy information is taken from each insurance provider’s respective website.
Allianz Partners:
Allianz Partners offers travel insurance when you’re already abroad. Here are some of the benefits of purchasing incoming travel insurance from Allianz Partners:
- You will be covered for the costs of medical treatment, even if you are already abroad.
- You will be covered for the costs of travel delays, such as missed flights and hotel stays.
- You will be covered for the costs of lost or stolen luggage.
- You will be covered for the costs of trip cancellation or interruption.
Here’s more info about how Air Doctor’s service works with Allianz Partners.
DR-WALTER:
DR-WALTER offers travel insurance when you are already abroad. Here are some of the benefits of purchasing incoming travel insurance from DR-WALTER:
- You will be covered for the costs of medical treatment, even if you are already abroad.
- You will be covered for the costs of travel delays, such as missed flights and hotel stays.
- You will be covered for the costs of lost or stolen luggage.
- You will be covered for the costs of trip cancellation or interruption.
Here’s more info about how Air Doctor’s service works with DR-WALTER.
ERGO Reiseversicherung:
ERGO Reiseversicherung offers travel insurance when you are already abroad.
Here are some of the benefits of buying travel insurance already abroad from ERGO Reiseversicherung:
- You will be covered for the costs of medical treatment, even if you are already abroad.
- You will be covered for the costs of travel delays, such as missed flights and hotel stays.
- You will be covered for the costs of lost or stolen luggage.
- You will be covered for the costs of trip cancellation or interruption.
Here’s more info about how Air Doctor’s service works with ERGO Germany.
ERGO Seguros de Viaje:
Ergo Seguros de Viaje offers travel insurance when you are already abroad. Here are some of the benefits of purchasing incoming travel insurance from Ergo Seguros de Viaje:
- You will be covered for the costs of medical treatment, even if you are already abroad.
- You will be covered for the costs of travel delays, such as missed flights and hotel stays.
- You will be covered for the costs of lost or stolen luggage.
- You will be covered for the costs of trip cancellation or interruption.
Here’s more info about how Air Doctor’s service works with ERGO Spain.
Enjoy Peace of Mind with Air Doctor: Seamless Medical Care While Abroad
When you’re traveling abroad, it’s crucial to have access to reliable medical services. That’s where Air Doctor comes in. With the Air Doctor app, you can easily find a trustworthy local doctor to address your healthcare needs, even if your insurance provider doesn’t have a direct affiliation with Air Doctor.
To ensure your consultation expenses are covered and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs, it’s important to check with your insurance provider regarding their partnership with Air Doctor or their willingness to reimburse the consultation expenses.
With our user-friendly app, you can effortlessly browse through a diverse selection of local doctors who speak your language. Whether you require in-clinic, at-home, or virtual consultations, Air Doctor has you covered. Regardless of your location or the time of day, you can schedule an appointment with the doctor of your choice, providing you with peace of mind and convenient access to quality healthcare services while you’re abroad.
