This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on October 6, 2022 by Mani Karthik

Whenever I talk to someone who’s bringing over their parents to USA or visiting USA, the one question that always gets asked is “Should I buy travel insurance?“. The very next is, “Where to buy it from?”

I heard about travel insurance when I traveled first to USA on a business trip, back in 2010-11. I didn’t what travel insurance was. Of course, the only insurance we are obsessed with is life insurance.

Nothing else. And although my first reaction was to skip it, I somehow got it.

Where did I buy it from? The travel agent who booked me tickets. lol.

Little did I know about what I was getting or what the insurance covered. The only thing the travel agent asked me was how much I want to spend. Big mistake.

Never buy a plan because it is cheap. Never buy a plan because it’s the most expensive. Compare as many plans as possible and find the one that fits you.

Also read: Buy Travel Insurance From India Or USA?

Here’s what I learned

  • Never buy from a ticket booking agent.
    He does not care about what coverage you get or what your requirements are. All he is interested in is selling you a product he has.
  • Always check for coverage.
    There are different types of coverage like limited and comprehensive. You should pick whatever works for you. Don’t opt blindly.
  • Don’t go for the cheapest insurance plan.
    Many of us will be tempted to get the cheapest plan. Well, getting a really cheap plan doesn’t give you anything. If you spent a few more dollars, you’re better off getting more value for your plans and better coverage.
  • Compare with many options.
    Never choose from one or two companies or plans. Most travel agents will offer you what they want to sell, and limit your options.
    There are many options and plans to choose from. Do your research (like with this travel insurance plan comparison website) before making a decision.

There are a few things you should check about the company when buying travel insurance:

  • Make sure the company is licensed to sell travel insurance in your state.
  • Check the company’s financial stability. You can do this by visiting the website of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and looking up the company’s complaint history.
  • Make sure the company offers the type of coverage you need.
    For example, if you’re planning on doing a lot of activities while on vacation, you’ll want to make sure the company offers activity insurance.
  • Read the policy carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered.
  • Compare prices and coverage from different companies before choosing one.

Also read: Best Health Insurance Plans for Visitors to US

where should you buy travel insurance from?

Some people may find that buying travel insurance from a travel agent is a good idea because it can be convenient.

Travel agents typically have a lot of experience and knowledge about different insurance policies, so they can help customers find the right policy for their needs. In addition, buying insurance from a travel agent may be less expensive than buying it directly from an insurance company.

However, there are also some drawbacks to buying travel insurance from a travel agent.

For example, if something goes wrong on the trip, the travel agent may not be able to help as much as the insurance company. In addition, some people may feel like they are being pressured into buying insurance from a travel agent.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not buying travel insurance from a travel agent is a good idea.

In my opinion, you should buy it online or from where you can choose from plenty of options. Compare between plans, compare prices, check coverage options, etc before finalizing.

Don’t buy a cheap plan just because. Different plans work differently and being costly doesn’t mean better coverage.

Use a tool like this, to compare different insurance plans, so you know what you are getting for your money.

All the best!

Also read: Patriot America Plus Review – Is it worth it?

Categorized in:

NRI Travel & Shopping,