International travel insurance is normally used by short-term travellers, mostly on holidays and pleasure cruises. Apart from covering medical expenses for a short travel time, it also covers emergency medical evacuations and trip cancellation refunds.

Travel medical insurance is meant for international travellers who have to go abroad quite often. There are a number of travel medical insurance companies that give support to thousands of travelling people on travel medical programs. These programs are meant to provide medical protection and assistance services in cases where people develop medical problems outside the country.

To avoid any potential medical disasters, wise travellers are prepared by carrying health insurance coverage. Check to see whether your regular health insurance takes care of medical costs in other countries. If it does, what is the extent of your coverage?

On a sombre note, have you thought about repatriation of mortal remains? In case of death the travel health insurance company will bear the cost of returning the mortal remains of the insured.

Before you leave check your policy document or contact the insurer to confirm what precise steps your insurance company requires you to take in a medical emergency. If you have to buy any treatments or medicines, again keep receipts and original prescriptions if possible.

Always read the fine print. Accidental coverage is not provided in case of drunken driving, driving under the influence of narcotic substances etc. Exclusions are also provided for accidents during risky sports, that means in case of accidents in these situations the insurance company is not liable to pay any amount to the insured.

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