What to Do If You Travel to the US Without Buying Travel Insurance
Did you know approximately 1.17 million tourists visited the United States from India in 2016 alone? This figure is expected to cross the 1.41 million mark by 2022. The figures are definitely mind-boggling and underline the popularity of America as a travel destination. However, there are some things to consider while traveling abroad, of which, the first thing is buying travel insurance.
Having travel insurance is not mandatory for obtaining a US tourist visa. This is why some people choose not to spend more than they have to on their trip. But what happens if you arrive in the US without any travel insurance and then the unexpected happens? Here are a few things you can do.
What to Do if You Travel to the US without Travel Insurance
Whether your travel insurance has expired or you simply forgot to buy a policy before leaving home, you can still buy an insurance plan even after arriving in the US. In some cases, you can even get similar coverage as your previous policy. The waiting period for such policies, age limits, eligibility criteria, pre-existing illness coverage and the terms of the policy will vary from insurer to insurer. So, make sure to check and compare before you choose.
However, there are a few disadvantages of buying travel insurance once you are overseas. Firstly, you might get more features in the policy you buy in your home country. Secondly, for travel insurance bought abroad, you might have to pay a very high premium. This is why it is always recommended to get your insurance cover before leaving your home country.
In case you find yourself in America without travel insurance, I have listed some policies you can buy in the US.
If you’re traveling this year, I recommend getting a travel insurance plan, so you can avoid expenses during an unfortunate event. I suggest Atlas America.
Types of Travel Policies to Choose From
International Health Insurance
A medical emergency will not wait for you to return to your home country. If you are visiting on a business tour, study trip or just for a pleasure trip, International Health Insurance can help in emergencies such as accident, theft, illness and loss of passport or wallet. It can ensure you better medical and health care facilities in a foreign land. This is especially important in the US, given that just a few stitches, after an injury, could cost you up to $3,915.18, says Blue Cross.
Business Travel Insurance
If you are a professional who needs to frequently travel overseas for business, you could consider buying business travel insurance. Also, if you have to cancel or delay the trip at the last moment, or if there are medical emergencies, luggage loss or theft or you have to return home due to some emergency, business travel insurance covers you for all these circumstances, giving you peace of mind.
Student Insurance
Are you planning to go to the US for a student exchange program for a semester? You should consider student insurance. International student insurance plans are usually more affordable than those provided by the universities in USA, and they offer similar coverage.
Finally, before planning a trip to the US, you should consult a trusted insurance provider and learn more about the possible risks and the ways to overcome them. Buying the best travel insurance will help you travel the world, while leaving behind all your stress at home.
Having lived in 3+ countries, worked for companies small and big in the USA, Middle East & India, I have a lot of experience to share about international travel, immigration and living as an NRI in the US. Add me on WhatsApp if you have any queries (+1-408-489-4785)