What are the Major Exclusions of a General Travel Insurance Policy?

Travelling is very exciting, but it is always wiser to first reflect on the essentials for the trip. Among other things, a prerequisite is an adequate travel insurance plan. It aims to protect you from the hassles arising while travelling. But there are exclusions to each travel policy which you should know about.Here are some exclusions of a general travel insurance policy:

1. Specific medical conditions: Most policies do not cover pre-existing health diseases such as diabetes,highblood pressure, etc. Also, the definition of pre-existing diseases varies per insurer and generally includes problems present in the 48-months before the policy. Moreover, policies exclude any treatments for obesity or cosmetic surgeries. Hence, check the coverage and pre-disclose disclose all health conditions.
2. Loss by self: Even though theft and other such activities are reimbursed for in the travel insurance, these policies carefully exclude all losses that are inflicted by the policyholder. This includes losing money in a fight,or because of carelessness,not abiding by the law, etc. This also means that all self-inflicted injuries which need treatment or hospitalization are not covered under the policy wraps.
3. Breach of law:A general travel insurance policy does not provide reimbursement for losses or health issues incurred due to undertaking of illegal activity or anything that breaches the law. This also includes damages to health or property caused while under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicating substance. Additionally, all damages caused by terrorist or military activity and even local protests are excluded.
4. Adventure sports: Travel policies eliminate any damage caused or injurycaused to the person due to adventure sports or activity such as scuba diving, sky diving, paragliding, bungee jumping, etc. However, you can discuss with your insurer about your requirements and take a plan closest to your needs.
5. Certain baggage losses: Baggage loss which occurs because of your reckless or careless behaviour is not reimbursed by the insurance policy. Moreover, no claim can be made unless the baggage has been missing for over 24-hours.
6. Cancellation by the tour company: For cases, where a trip booked through a tour operator is cancelled due to any reason, no reimbursement is given to the policyholder.
7. Other conditions: Other conditions and events not covered under a travel insurance policy include cancellations because of death or illness of a pet, separation from spouse, and any psychological illness.

While travelling domestic or international, you must not buy a travel policy in haste or without evaluating the documents vigilantly.

The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.