Travel Health Coverage: What You Need Before You Go

When you travel outside India, travel health coverage, a type of insurance that pays for medical care you need while abroad. Also known as travel medical insurance, it’s not optional if you’re flying overseas—especially since Indian public health systems don’t extend beyond borders. Most people think their domestic health plan covers them abroad. It doesn’t. A broken ankle in Thailand, food poisoning in Dubai, or a sudden heart issue in Germany? Without proper coverage, you’re looking at bills that can hit ₹5 lakh overnight.

Medical emergencies abroad, unexpected health crises that happen while traveling. Also known as travel-related health incidents, they don’t wait for you to plan. One study from the WHO found that over 30% of Indian travelers abroad faced a medical issue during trips lasting more than two weeks. And hospitals abroad don’t care if you’re from India—they want payment upfront. No insurance? No treatment. Simple as that. Even if you’re healthy, things change fast. A missed flight, a delayed visa, or a sudden fever can turn a vacation into a crisis. That’s why international travel insurance, a policy designed to cover medical, evacuation, and trip interruption costs overseas is the only real buffer between you and financial disaster.

Here’s what most travel health plans miss: dental emergencies, prescription refills, and mental health support. If you’re on medication for diabetes, thyroid, or depression, make sure your plan covers refills abroad. If you’re traveling with elderly parents, check if they’re included and what pre-existing conditions are covered. Some plans exclude people over 65—or charge triple the price. And don’t fall for the "all-inclusive" marketing. Many policies exclude adventure sports, high-altitude travel, or even basic ambulance services.

What you actually need is simple: emergency hospitalization, medical evacuation back to India, 24/7 multilingual support, and coverage for at least ₹10 lakh. Don’t buy from a travel agent who pushes the cheapest option. Compare policies that let you choose your hospital network. Some insurers partner with Apollo, Fortis, or Manipal abroad—they’ll settle bills directly. Others make you pay first, then wait months for reimbursement. That’s not insurance—that’s a loan.

And yes, this matters even if you’re going to Nepal or Sri Lanka. Hospitals there don’t accept Indian insurance cards. Your Ayushman Bharat card? Useless outside India. Your corporate health plan? Probably doesn’t cover you abroad. You need a standalone policy. Look for ones that include COVID-19 treatment, as many still do. And if you’re traveling with kids or pregnant, make sure maternity and pediatric care are included.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve been there. From how to get emergency cash when your card is blocked, to which countries require proof of insurance before entry, to the one question you must ask your insurer before you leave. These aren’t theory pieces. They’re survival tips from travelers, expats, and medical professionals who’ve dealt with the mess when things go wrong.