Cyclone Dana disrupts travel: Know how insurance can save your trip

Cyclone Dana: As Cyclone Dana made landfall, the situation became dire, with reports of casualties and extensive damage. Prior to its arrival, over 200 flights and trains were cancelled or halted, leaving many travelers in limbo. Now that services are resuming, the importance of travel insurance has never been clearer.

"In this scenario, passengers are protected by comprehensive travel insurance, which can shield them from the financial repercussions of such unforeseen events," said Vivek Chaturvedi, CMO, Go Digit General Insurance.

How to decide on right travel insurance?

Start by assessing your travel habits, as frequent travelers may need different coverage than occasional ones. Use online comparison tools to find policies that suit your needs, paying attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and customer reviews. Understand any exclusions, especially regarding natural disasters. 

If you frequently travel, consider annual travel insurance policies, which may provide better value and cover multiple trips throughout the year. 

Finally, read the policy details carefully to grasp the terms and claims process before making your purchase.

Major benefits of having travel insurance

Common carrier delay

If your flight is delayed due to weather-related issues or other technicalities, travel insurance typically provides a flat benefit payout up to the sum insured. This compensation is designed to cover additional costs incurred at the airport during the delay, allowing travelers to manage unexpected expenses without the burden of providing extensive documentation.

Trip cancellation

Life can be unpredictable, and if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen events such as illness, the death of an immediate family member, natural disasters, or loss of important documents trip cancellation coverage protects you from financial losses. "This coverage can reimburse you for any non-refundable costs related to travel and accommodation, easing the financial burden of last-minute cancellations," Chaturvedi added.

Missed connection

Delays and rescheduling can cause travellers to miss connecting flights. Comprehensive travel insurance covers reasonable additional expenses incurred for accommodation and alternative travel arrangements, ensuring you reach your final destination without incurring out-of-pocket costs.

Trip extension

If your travel plans are affected by unforeseen weather conditions, resulting in an extended stay, your insurance can cover additional lodging costs and airfare differences. This feature protects against disruptions caused by natural disasters, strikes, and political disturbances.

Home-to-home cover

Home-to-home coverage provides protection for personal accidents that may lead to hospitalisation, disability, or loss of life, beginning 12 hours before departure and extending 12 hours after arrival. "Home-to-home coverage ensures travellers are safeguarded against unexpected incidents during their journey to and from the airport," Chaturvedi explained.

What to do when facing travel disruptions?

When faced with travel disruptions due to events like Cyclone Dana, act promptly and know your options.

Check your insurance policy

Review your travel insurance policy to understand your coverage, including what is included in the fine print. This helps you know what claims you can file and the documentation required.

Document everything

Keep records of your travel plans, receipts, and any communications with airlines or travel providers. Documenting the situation can streamline the claims process later.

Contact your travel provider

Reach out to your airline or travel agency for updates and alternatives. They may offer rebooking options or other solutions that can mitigate your travel disruptions.

File claims quickly

If you incur expenses due to delays, cancellations, or other travel-related issues, file your claims with your insurance provider as soon as possible. Timely reporting can often result in faster processing of your claims.