How to Get Health Insurance Before You Go Overseas
The first mistake is assuming that every travel insurance policy provides the same protection.
It does not happen that way.
Travel insurance, travel health insurance and medical evacuation insurance can cover different risks. The CDC distinguishes between these types of coverage, so it is worth understanding what you are actually purchasing before paying for a policy.
Before buying a policy, look beyond the price.
Check whether it covers:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Emergency transportation
- Medical evacuation
- Repatriation, where applicable
- Prescription medication or related assistance
- Pre-existing conditions, if relevant
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Activities you intend to participate in
You should also check the exclusions.
A policy may look impressive until you discover that the particular activity, medical condition or circumstance you are concerned about is excluded.
How to Choose the Right Overseas Health Insurance
Start by asking a simple question:
What could I realistically need this insurance to pay for?
For a short holiday, your needs may be different from those of someone moving overseas for a year of university.
If you are studying abroad for several months, for example, you may need to understand both your university’s health requirements and the healthcare system in your destination.
For some destinations, international students are required to participate in a specific healthcare scheme rather than simply purchasing any private travel insurance.
The UK is a good example. Depending on your visa and circumstances, you may need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application. The official GOV.UK guidance on the Immigration Health Surcharge explains who has to pay, as well as the exemptions.
So you shouldn’t buy a policy just because an agent recommends it.
You have to check the official immigration and university requirements for your destination first.
How to Compare Overseas Health Insurance Plans
When comparing policies, do not compare only the premium.
Look at the actual protection.
A useful checklist includes:
- Maximum medical coverage
- Deductible or excess
- Emergency evacuation limit
- Hospital coverage
- Existing medical conditions
- Policy exclusions
- Claim procedure
- 24-hour emergency assistance
- Coverage period
- Countries covered
Also save the insurer’s emergency telephone number in your phone.
You won’t want to be searching through emails for a contact number while sitting in a foreign hospital.
How to Secure Accommodation Before You Go Overseas
Accommodation should be treated almost like another part of your travel documentation.
You should know where you are going before you board the aircraft.
For international students, the safest starting point is usually the university or college itself.
For example, Study UK advises international students to start thinking about accommodation as soon as they accept a university offer, because some popular university accommodation options can fill quickly. Universities and colleges may also have accommodation teams that can help students understand their options and deadlines.
Depending on your destination and circumstances, you may consider:
- University-owned halls
- Private student residences
- Shared apartments
- Private rented accommodation
- Homestays
- Short-term hotels or serviced apartments
The right option depends on your budget, course location, length of stay and personal circumstances.