Travel Insurance Plans on PolicyBazaar#1
- Individuals
- Sr. Citizens
- Students
What is Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is a type of insurance offering financial protection from varying risks associated with travel. It covers losses incurred due to a range of scenarios, such as getting sick or injured, baggage delays by airlines, luggage theft during the trip, trip curtailment, flight delays, etc. Travel insurance covers you from the day your journey begins till you return home.
Most travel insurance plans in India provide coverage for the following:
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Passport Loss
Assistance & Reimbursement for passport replacement if lost/stolen abroad
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Hospitalisation for Accident & Illness
Cashless treatment/reimbursement for emergency health expenses
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Personal Liability
Legal & financial support in case of legal liabilities during your trip
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Emergency Medical Expenses
Costs incurred because of sudden health emergencies (including PED)
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Trip Delay
Compensation for flight delays if more than a certain number of hours
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Missed Connecting Flight
Covers additional expenses (alternate bookings, hotel & food) due to a missed flight
Please note that Indian travel insurance companies offer different policies with varied coverage. For more details, always read your travel insurance policy document thoroughly.
Travel Insurance at a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Travel Insurance Cost | Rs. 18/day#2 starting price |
| Entry Age | 1 day - 70 years or as specified |
| Countries Covered by Indian Travel Insurance | 200+ countries and islands |
| Duration of Travel Insurance | 1 day - 1 Year |
| Medical Benefits | Medical Care, Accidental Death & Disability, Dental Cover, Evacuation and Repatriation |
| Optional Covers | PED, Adventure Sports, Home Burglary, Nervous/Mental Disorder |
| Coverage for Family | Only in Family Travel Insurance |
| 24x7 Worldwide Assistance | Emergency Helpline, Mobile Apps, etc. |
| COVID-19 Insurance Coverage | Available#2 |
| Time Required to Buy Travel Insurance | Can buy Instant travel insurance online |
| Claim Settlement Period | Baggage-related: 1-2 weeks, Medical: 20-25 days#2 |
#2 Final Quote, Duration, Coverage & Procedure will vary with insurer & plan purchased
Travel Insurance Cost vs Real Travel Emergency Expenses
Travelling abroad is fun and exciting, but even a small mishap can cost you a huge amount. A travel insurance policy comes at a fraction of the cost of your trip.
The travel insurance premium ranges between INR 600#3- INR 3,000#3 for a 15-day-long trip (Individual plan for 30-year-old, without PED) on Policybazaar.
Here are some real-life scenarios where travel insurance covers some sudden financial emergencies in the most common ways:
Real-Life Scenarios Covered by Travel Insurance
| Travel Risk Scenario | Estimated Cost (without Insurance#3) | Travel Insurance Coverage Detail |
| Fractured leg + Surgery in Germany | EUR 18,000 (INR 16.2 lakh) | Emergency Medical Care Abroad: Expenses due to hospitalisation, surgery, and medication costs |
| Family trip to Australia cancelled due to a sudden illness | INR 3.5 lakh (flights + hotels, non-refundable bookings) | Trip Cancellation: Reimbursement as per the policy limit |
| Check-in baggage delayed for 48 hrs in Singapore | INR 15,000 for clothes/toiletries | Lost/Delayed Baggage: Reimbursed for essentials as per the policy coverage |
| Passport stolen in the USA | INR 35,000 (passport reissue, embassy fees, extra hotel stay) | Passport Loss: Full reimbursement of expenses |
| Weather delay in London, missed the connecting Toronto flight | INR 40,000 -50,000 (hotel, meals, rebooking flight tickets) | Flight Delay/Missed Connection: Coverage for flight delay and related expenses |
| Your children damaged an expensive vase at the Heritage Hotel in Barcelona | INR 2- 5 lakh for repairs/legal expenses | Personal Liability: Reimbursement under liability cover |
| Heart attack on cruise, air ambulance to India | INR 40 lakh | Medical Evacuation/Repatriation of Mortal Remains: Coverage for the evacuation cost and more, depending on the policy |
| Diving accident in Thailand | INR 3 lakh for treatment | Adventure Sports Add-on: Cover for medical costs, including adventure sports injuries |
Disclaimer: #3 Approximate expenses may vary with country, hospital, treatment opted and currency rate fluctuations.
Customer Stories: How Travel Insurance Saved the day
The chances of bad things happening to you may seem low, but when something does go wrong, it may be too late. These are some examples based on true stories and how travel insurance helped these people:
Key Coverage and Benefits of Travel Insurance
Any trip outside India requires a lot of bookings and non-refundable expenses. Having international travel insurance means you won't be spending extra on emergency expenses and can travel worry-free. Here’s how:
Emergency Medical Expenses
Covers doctor’s fees, hospitalisation, prescription medicines due to sudden illness or injuries faced abroad.
Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
Covers costs of emergency transportation in case of a medical emergency abroad. Also covers the cost of returning mortal remains in case of death.
Loss Of Passport Or Documents
Provides financial help if you need to obtain a new passport and other important travel document.
Trip Cancellation & Interruption
Offered only under covered reasons like natural disasters, sudden illness, etc. Reimburses pre-paid expenses like hotels, flights, tours.
Baggage Loss Or Delay
Compensates permanent loss of checked-in baggage and reimburses for essential items if baggage is delayed beyond a specific time.
Emergency Assistance
Dedicated helpline to guide you during emergencies abroad, such as initiating cashless hospitalisation or finding an interpreter.
Flight Delays And Missed Connections
Covers extra expenses like meals, hotel stay, travel alternatives in case of a delayed flight or missed connecting flight.
Personal Liability
Covers legal expenses in case you are held legally responsible for damage or injury to a third party or their property.
6 Reasons Why You Must Get Travel Insurance
When you're far from home, the unexpected can cost more than just money; hence ensuring financial security for trips away from home becomes essential. Here are 6 reasons why travel insurance is non-negotiable:
The Only Safeguard for Cancelled Trips
Flight cancelled? Visa denied? Had to cancel your trip for medical reasons? Travel insurance reimburses you for non-refundable bookings: flights, hotels, tours, and more, if your trip is cancelled for covered reasons.
Meets Mandatory Visa Requirement
Whether in France, Turkey, or Georgia, travel health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all these destinations. Your visa won't be processed if you do not fulfil these criteria.
Flight Delays Can Leave You Stranded — We Won't
Missed connections or long layovers can cost you a lot. International travel insurance will help you get reimbursed for meals, hotels, and transport during covered delays — whether you're stuck in Dubai or waiting out a storm in Frankfurt.
Helps During Medical Emergencies
Medical emergencies overseas can cost you lakhs of rupees. Travel health insurance covers hospitalisation, treatment, and even emergency evacuation, so you only need to worry about getting better.
Global Support, 24/7
Lost your passport? Missed your connection? Facing issues because of language differences? Need help finding a hospital in a new country? Travel insurance plans come with 24/7 global assistance, guiding you in real-time, wherever you are.
Lost Your Baggage? You're Not Alone
You may feel stuck if your baggage gets stolen or is lost by the airline during your trip. Travel insurance reimburses you for the cost of essentials, helping you carve your way out when you have nothing left with you, literally.
What is Covered/ What is Not Covered?
Covered in policy
Just like packing right and booking comfortable hotels is important for your journey, so is knowing what your travel insurance plan will cover. These are listed as 'inclusions' in all insurance policy wordings. Here are some common features of travel insurance:
Medical Coverage
The cost of medical care abroad is a lot higher than what we pay in India. This is where your travel medical insurance coverage will have your back:
Medical Emergencies
If you need emergency treatment during any trip, you don't have to worry about the costs. Travel insurance plans cover hospitalisation costs in case of an accident or sudden illness.
Cashless Treatment Facility
Indian insurers also offer cashless travel insurance, which helps you settle treatment expenses directly at a network hospital. This saves you from paying hefty bills upfront.
Medical Evacuation or Repatriation
Evacuation is a necessary expense when you need treatment not available abroad. In such cases, you will be evacuated to the nearest available medical facility. In an unfortunate case of death abroad, the mortal remains are repatriated to India.
Journey Coverage
Your travel insurance plan from India covers many journey-related support throughout your trip, such as:
Travel Assistance
In a new city or country, your travel insurance plan helps with urgent assistance. This can range from customer support to getting a list of network hospitals in that country.
Policy Extension
Your travel policy has a fixed period and ends when you return from the trip. If your trip is extended for valid/covered reasons, your insurance for foreign travel can be extended. This is only allowed for a fixed period and under valid scenarios.
Flight Delays & Cancellations
Comprehensive travel insurance covers extra costs (like food, hotel, alternate transportation) if your flight is delayed, cancelled, or you miss a connecting flight. This is valid in case of covered emergencies like accident, death, strikes or faulty equipment.
Baggage Coverage
Official reports state that 11 out of 1000 bags (international flights) and 2 out of 1000 (domestic flights) get lost every year. Not just baggage loss, baggage delays are also very common because of flight transfers. Many policies luckily include baggage insurance under the benefits of flight travel insurance:
Covers Delayed/Lost Baggage
The chances of your airline misplacing or losing your luggage are low but never zero. If you happen to lose your baggage while flying, your travel insurance plan will help cover the necessary personal expenses, such as clothing, medicines, and toiletries. Your travel insurance will cover the purchase of necessary items in case of check-in baggage delay.
Add-On Covers/Optional Covers
You can enhance your travel insurance for better coverage. These extra benefits, also called 'add-ons,' come at an extra premium. If you need specific protection, these optionals will go a long way to protect you. The most common add-ons in travel insurance include (but are not limited to):
Adventure Sports Coverage
Adventure sports are recreational activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and hiking. Standard plans don't cover these activities, and any injuries or health issues faced during these activities will not be covered unless you have enhanced coverage. Adventure sports coverage helps you freely enjoy these sports, including skiing, snowboarding and more. Your policy will reimburse the stated hospitalisation expenses incurred due to these activities.
Home Burglary/Fire Insurance Coverage
This cover protects you from any loss caused by a break-in, theft, or fire at your home in India while you are on a trip abroad.
Emergency Hotel Accommodation Coverage
This optional cover offers hotel stay benefits if your trip extends for any urgent or unavoidable (covered) reason. However, this is a limited coverage that is only provided by a handful of travel insurers.
Not Covered in policy
Policy exclusions are specific situations that will not be covered by your travel insurance policy. Ignoring these important one of the biggest reasons for travel insurance claim rejection. Knowing your policy exclusions also helps you decide if the travel insurance quote for your choice is worth your budget. Here are some general exclusions under travel insurance policies in India:
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Any expense incurred if travelling against the doctor's advice
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Expenses for injuries or sickness caused by intoxication or under alcohol influence
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Treatment costs incurred because of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and mental disorders
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Claims related to childbirth, pregnancy or related complications (unless purchasing an add-on with student travel insurance)
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Claims related to planned cosmetic or plastic surgery
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Treatment for self-inflicted injuries, including attempts at suicide or claims for suicide
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Pre-existing diseases (coverage is available with PED add-on)
- Baggage loss in case the luggage is shipped separately or unaccompanied
- Some policies don't cover cases beyond the specified geographic region
- Delay or failure in reporting the lost luggage to the relevant authorities
- Claims arising from participation in adventure sports unless purchasing an add-on
- Claims because of injuries/damage sustained while professionally participating in adventure sports
- Coverage for mountaineering, bike races, scuba diving, etc., is available only with specific add-ons
- Loss caused by involvement in illegal activities, theft, felony, etc.
- Damage caused by dangerous or hazardous work
- Claims arising because of war-like circumstances, as well as a civil war in the country that you are visiting
- All insurers may not always cover claims from terrorist attacks in your destination city or country.
- Cost of duplicate/new passport if the original was lost and left unattended.
- Policies may not cover your claim if you are travelling to a place that the government or authorities have advised against.
Does Travel Insurance Provide COVID-19 Coverage?
Yes, Indian insurers provide travel insurance plans with COVID-19 coverage. Getting sick because of coronavirus can force you to cancel or cut short your trip, adding to the medical expenses. Travel insurance plans with COVID-19 coverage cover you for many expenses due to coronavirus:
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Emergency hospitalisation expenses because of COVID-19. This includes various healthcare expenses relevant to the treatment.
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Trip extension caused by unexpected lockdowns in the foreign country.
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Trip cancellation because of COVID-19 hospitalisation.
Does Travel Insurance Cover Pre-existing Medical Conditions?
No, standard travel insurance plans don't cover PED or pre-existing diseases. Many plans cover these medical conditions only in the event of life-threatening emergencies. Even then, this coverage is limited and you may face many difficulties abroad.
Thankfully, you can still travel abroad with a PED-coverage add-on, which will cover any emergencies related to your health condition. All you need to ensure is that you disclose them honestly while buying the policy. Your insurer will take care of the rest.
Is There a GST on Travel Insurance Premium?
No, travel insurance plans are GST-free since September 2025. Until September 2025, Goods and Services Tax (GST) amounted to 18% of your travel insurance premium amount.
Your travel insurance premium cost is determined by many factors, including taxes. For example, earlier, if a policy cost INR 2,800, then after an 18% GST, the total premium would be INR 3,304, with an additional cost of INR 504. Now, the same policy will cost you INR 2,800 with 0% GST.
As per the latest GST 2.0, travel insurance premiums are now GST exempt, reducing the overall cost of travel insurance plans in India.
How to Calculate Travel Insurance Premiums Online?
Getting travel insurance quotes from different insurers lets you choose a policy that offers maximum coverage for the least possible premium.
You can also use a travel insurance premium calculator to get an estimate of premium for your insurance plan.
How to Lower Your Travel Insurance Premium?
Use the tips below to lower your travel insurance cost in India:
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Assess Your Activities
Consider the type/purpose of your trip and activities you have planned to ensure you have adequate policy coverage. It should sufficiently cover all your requirements but need not exceed them.
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Customise Your Policy
Try to customise your policy per your requirements so that you only have to pay for the travel insurance benefits that you actually need.
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Multi-Travel Insurance for Frequent Flyers
Buying multi-trip insurance is more affordable if you travel abroad frequently.
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Opt for Family/ Group Travel Insurance Plans
If you are travelling with your family or in a group, opting for a family or group holiday insurance plan, is more cost-effective.
List of Travel Insurance Companies in India
Indian insurers offer plans with varying benefits, coverage limits, duration and cost. It is important to choose the best option for you. While the age eligibility criteria for travel insurance plans range from 01 day to 99 years, key benefits vary with the insurer. Here are the Indian insurance companies offering various travel insurance plans:
| Travel Insurance Companies | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Aditya Birla Travel Insurance | Hospitalisation cover, Passport loss, Automatic policy extension |
| Bajaj Allianz Travel Insurance | Cashless hospitalisation, COVID-19 coverage, Loss of baggage/passport |
| Bharti AXA Travel Insurance | Hospitalisation coverage, Baggage insurance |
| Care Travel Insurance | Emergency hospitalisation, Upgradation to business class, Adventure sports cover |
| Chola MS Travel Insurance | Hospital expenses, Compassionate visit, Document Loss |
| Digit Travel Insurance | Emergency treatment, Flight delays, Adventure sports cover |
| Future Generali Travel Insurance | Hospitalisation cover, Personal accident, Baggage delay/ loss |
| IFFCO Tokio Travel Insurance | Hospital expenses, Trip cancellation, Hospital daily allowance |
| Reliance Travel Insurance | Cashless hospitalisation, Trip delay, Home burglary insurance |
| Royal Sundaram Travel Insurance | Hospitalisation expenses, Political risk & catastrophe evacuation, Missed connections |
| SBI Travel Insurance | Emergency treatment, Trip delays |
| Shriram Travel Insurance | Hospitalisation expenses, Loss of passport, Hijack distress allowance |
| Star Travel Insurance | Emergency treatment expenses, Personal liability, Flight delays and cancellations |
| Tata AIG Travel Insurance | Denial of visa coverage, Bounced flight/hotel bookings, home-to-home cover |
| Universal Sompo Travel Insurance | Emergency hospitalisation expenses, Personal accident, Baggage loss |
| Travel Insurance Companies | Key Features |
|---|---|
| New India Assurance | Hospitalisation coverage, Delay of check-in baggage, Personal accident |
| Oriental Insurance | Hospital expenses, Passport loss, Personal liability |
| United India Insurance | Hospitalisation expenses, Trip cancellation, Hospital daily allowance |
| National Insurance | Medical expenses cover, Personal liability, Passport loss |
Disclaimer: The list of insurers mentioned is arranged according to the alphabetical order of the names of insurers. For more details on the features, benefits, offered terms and conditions, please read the sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. The list of plans listed here comprises insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. For a complete list of insurers in India, refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website www.irdai.gov.in
Types of Travel Insurance Plans in India - Coverage for Every Trip
It doesn't matter if you're travelling for leisure or work, studies or pilgrimage, travel insurance is your best safety net for all journeys. Here are the different types of insurance plans in India:
International Travel Insurance
Schengen Travel Insurance
Family Travel Insurance
Senior Citizen Travel Insurance
Student Travel Insurance
Travel Medical Insurance
Who is Eligible to Buy Travel Insurance?
Any Indian can buy travel insurance online. You must have a valid Indian ID/passport if you want to buy travel insurance policy, depending on the type of trip.
Foreigners residing in India need to provide a valid Indian work permit or passport.
You may need to meet additional requirements depending on the type of travel insurance (family, senior citizen, student, etc.) you choose:
| Plan | Eligibility#4 |
| Travel Insurance | Must be between 0.6 and 60 years |
| Single-Trip Travel Insurance | Eligible only for one trip roundabout trip, Adults: 18-70 years, Children: Starting Age: 1 day |
| Family Travel Insurance | Covers insured policyholder, spouse and dependents; Adults must be between 18 and 60 years, Dependents' age varies |
| Senior Citizen Travel Insurance | Available for seniors aged 61 to 90+ years |
| Student Travel Insurance | Must have enrollment in an educational institute abroad. Must be between 16 and 35 years or as per the plan |
| Corporate Travel Insurance | Must be between 18 and 70 years old |
| Multi-Trip Travel Insurance | Adults between 18 and 70 years, Children aged 3 months and above, Renewal Available |
#4 Please note that the age bracket varies with insurers.
Key Benefits of Online Travel Insurance Comparison
Comparing travel insurance helps you decide on the best financial safety net for your journey. You can decide which policy offers the best coverage for your money.
For example, if you're planning a trip to Norway with your mother and she has no health issues, she can buy a regular senior citizen travel insurance plan. But a 60 year+ traveller with high BP will need a Schengen visa compliant policy with a PED cover.
Here are some key advantages of why you should compare travel insurance online:
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Compare Multiple Options at Once
Easily compare policies online depending on the travel insurance quotes to suit your budget.
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Get Discounts
Many travel insurance companies in India offer discounts sometimes; you can avail of them while comparing your options.
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Helps in Making an Informed Choice
It is cost-effective and wise when you buy travel insurance online after comparison. You can easily understand what is covered or not covered by reading various policies simultaneously.
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Time-saving
Comparing online lets you buy a travel insurance policy quickly through a fair comparison of the ongoing prices.
Myth-Busting: 12 Travel Insurance Myths That Could Ruin Your Trip
Many misunderstandings about travel insurance discourage people from buying it. We have covered a few of these travel insurance-related myths, along with their facts!
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I only need Travel Insurance for Expensive Trips
The Reality: Disasters Don't Check the Price Tag
Emergencies and accidents can occur on any trip, including within India or less expensive countries. Even a hairline fracture in Thailand can cost you up to USD 5,000, which can cost you more than your flight tickets!
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I'm Young and Fit, So Travel Insurance is Useless!
The Reality: You can't control every situation!
You can still lose your passport, miss a flight, or accidentally damage someone's property. Other than medical emergencies, your travel insurance also covers trip- and stay-related complications that can cost you a lot of money abroad!
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Travel Insurance is Only Useful for Frequent Travellers
The Reality: Risk is not related to frequency
All it takes is one thing to go wrong, and it can happen even before your trip begins. You can get single-trip travel insurance with good benefits without compromising their budget. Benefits like trip cancellation, emergency hospitalisation and many others will surely make your trip stress-free.
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Travel Insurance will Cover all my Risky Sports Abroad
The Reality: Adventure sports need special coverage
Travel insurance does not cover risky sports unless you specifically buy an add-on for adventure sports. For example, some policies may cover you for skiing and scuba diving, while a few may not. More importantly, if you are participating professionally in any adventure sport, you won't be covered.
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I Can Report Any Accident & File a Claim Once I'm Back in India
The Reality: Timeline matters a lot in insurance claims
Most insurers need you to inform them about an incident within 24-48 hours. You shouldn't wait to return home to file a claim or report to your insurer. This includes getting into an accident, losing your wallet, missing bags, stolen passports, etc. You also need to report these incidents to the police or other local authorities so that you can file a claim back home. What's more, many insurers won't entertain any claims after 30 days from your returned to India.
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Airlines Will Compensate for Flight or Baggage Delays
The Reality: Who will cover travel emergencies beyond flight and luggage?
While the airlines may partly (or fully) compensate for flight delays, baggage delay/loss or flight cancellations, it will not cover for any risks or emergencies you may face abroad, such as medical emergencies, loss of documents, stay extension, etc.
Travel Insurance Cost in India
Travel insurance premium is the price you pay to buy your policy. It can cost as low as INR 18/day* on Policybazaar.com. These are a few factors affecting travel insurance premiums:
Destination
If you travel to a high-risk country, your chances of facing adversities are higher. This means a higher premium to cover you for a higher risk.
Trip Duration
The longer your trip duration, the higher your travel insurance premium will be.
Number of Travellers
The policy premium for one person will be lower than that of a policy covering the entire family.
Add-on Covers
If you opt for add-on covers under your policy, your travel insurance premium amount will increase.
How to Find the Best Travel Insurance in India?
This quick questionnaire will help you pick the best travel insurance in India:
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How Often Do You Travel?
If you're someone who takes multiple trips in a year, a multi-trip plan can save you time and money. But if it's just a one-time vacation, a single-trip policy is perfect for you.
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What is Your Age?
The older you are, the higher the risk of falling sick or getting injured. Insurers realise this risk and charge accordingly. If you are above 60 years, your travel insurance premium can be higher.
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Where are You Headed?
Insurance costs can change depending on your destination. For instance, travel insurance for the USA usually will be higher as it needs higher coverage than, say, Malaysia. Also, some countries mandatorily require travel insurance for visa approval.
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How Long will You Travel?
The longer the trip, the more your insurance premium will cost. It's smart to buy a plan that covers a little more than your actual dates, just in case your travel plans change at the last minute.
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Who's Going with You?
Travelling alone? Go for an individual plan. If it's a family vacation, a family travel insurance policy is simpler and more affordable. Parents or grandparents above 60 can buy senior citizen travel insurance, but it will be more expensive.
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Is the Claim Process Smooth?
Before you buy, take a quick look at the insurer's claim process, reviews on cashless claim settlement, limits, and track record. It's good to know how things work, just in case you need help while you're away.
How to Buy Online Travel Insurance in India?
You can buy travel insurance online from Policybazaar.com by following these steps:
Share your basic details like name, mobile number, travel destination, age, and travel dates, etc. to get travel insurance plans accordingly.
Select from the list of travel insurance options that fit your needs and budget best.
Once finalised, pay online for the travel insurance plan. Use the convenient mode of payment like UPI, credit/debit card, netbanking, etc.
Your travel insurance policy will be instantly issued and sent to your registered email.
When & Where to Buy Travel Insurance in India?
Travel insurance experts recommend buying a travel insurance policy within 15 days of booking. Ideally, you should buy travel insurance as soon as you have booked your flight and hotel.
About where to buy your online travel insurance, only you can decide where to buy it from. Wherever you choose to buy travel insurance in India, don't forget to compare travel insurance plans on Policybazaar.com for easy understanding.
Documents Required for Travel Insurance Claim
You need to provide the following documents for different types of travel insurance claims:
Medical Claims
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Claim forms
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Original admission/discharge card, if applicable
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Original Bills, Receipts, Prescription and Reports
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Copy of passport/visa with entry & exit stamp
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Personal ID Proof
Baggage Loss Claims
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Claim forms
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Property Irregularity Report (To be Obtained from Airline)
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Copies of correspondence with the airlines confirming the loss
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Approximate cost of lost items
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Copy of passport/visa with entry & exit stamp
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Personal ID Proof
Trip Related Claims
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Claim forms
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Medical reports of the insured policyholder, companion or immediate family member (In case of Trip Cancellation)
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Details of the amount refunded by the common carrier and the hotel
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Copy of flight ticket, passport with entry & exit stamp
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Personal ID proof
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Original bills of expenses incurred during the period of delay (In case of Trip Delay)
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Copies of Correspondence with the airline authorities certifying the delay
Other Claims
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Claim forms
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Original bills, receipts, and complaint copies
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Copy of passport/visa with entry & exit stamp
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Personal ID proof
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Policy copy
Travel Insurance Claim Procedure
Buying travel insurance is only the beginning of securing your trip. You should be aware of the travel insurance claim process the moment you realise you're in trouble:
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Inform Your Insurer
Informing the travel insurer about your situation within the specified time is also vital to ensure your claim is not rejected or delayed.
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Document Everything
From proof of travel to proof of medical bills and pay receipts, you must document everything related to claim expenses.
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Gather Paperwork
Find out the list of necessary documents for your claim and keep them ready.
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Submit Claim Form
You can file for your travel insurance claim online instead of waiting to return.
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Follow up Regularly
You can contact the TPA of the insurer via phone, email or other customer service about your claim.
In case you need help with a claim, you can contact our claims support team through any of the following means:
- Call us on 1800-258-5881
- Mail us at travelclaims@policybazaar.com
- You can also reach out to the insurer directly
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Travel?
No, travel insurance is not universally mandatory for journeys, but it is highly recommended by many countries.
It is a mandatory requirement for over 35 countries, the most popular being the 29 Schengen countries in Europe, and several other countries like Turkey, Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Moldova, etc.
Countries Where Travel Insurance is Mandatory
There are many countries requiring travel insurance policy before you visit them. These countries don't issue a valid visa unless you provide proof of travel medical insurance from India.
| Country/Region | Requirement |
| Schengen (29 countries) | Mandatory medical insurance; should be Schengen visa compliant, with at least EUR 30,000 coverage |
| Turkey | Needed for e‑visa |
| Russia | Required under the unified e‑visa schemes |
| UAE | Mandatory for multiple‑entry visa holders |
| Cuba | Travel medical + repatriation coverage |
| Moldova | Minimum EUR 30,000 medical coverage, valid throughout the visit |
Even if not mandatory, being insured not only helps with emergencies like medical issues, baggage loss, any last-minute cancellations, passport loss, but also streamlines your visa approval.
How to Avoid Rejection on Travel Insurance Claim
When you buy a policy to secure your journey, you expect that your travel insurance will come to your rescue in your time of need. However, it can be devastating when your claim is rejected, and you don't get any coverage despite your best efforts.
The key here is the small print of your policy wording. Here are some important pitfalls that can help you avoid travel insurance claim rejection:
Even if you have a genuine claim, your claim can be delayed and ultimately rejected if you fail to provide the necessary documents. These include hospital records, FIRs, fee receipts, evidence of flight cancellation, etc. You must keep all the invoices, confirmations and communications handy in case something goes wrong during your trip.
Every insurer lists situations they won't cover in any scenario. These are listed under ‘general exclusions', such as pregnancy-related issues, travelling against doctor's advice, pre-existing diseases, etc. If you claim under these, your claim will be rejected. You must study these exclusions before buying your policy so that you know exactly what you're covered for.
Incidents like baggage loss, passport theft or medical emergencies need to be reported to the local authorities and insurer immediately. Some incidents need to be reported to the insurer within the stipulated time (24-48 hours) so that they can guide you through the situation and claim formalities promptly.
Can You Extend Your Travel Insurance Policy?
You can extend your travel policy by 1-2 weeks or more, depending on the insurer. However, you must remember some facts:
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You can only ‘Renew' an annual policy. For short-term policies, an extension is available.
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Some overseas travel insurance also offers an automatic policy extension in case of hospitalisation, natural disasters, etc.
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Travel insurance extension requires an additional premium in most cases.
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For a planned extension, inform the insurer as soon as possible. Similarly, pay for the additional travel insurance premium according to the changes to your travel insurance plan.
How to Extend Your Travel Insurance Policy?
If you wish to extend your travel insurance policy, you must contact your insurer before the policy expires. The steps for travel insurance policy extension are simple:
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Check your existing policy date and terms.
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Contact your insurer.
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Submit necessary documents (current policy, ID, travel documents, etc.).
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Pay the premium and confirm your policy extension.
Why You Can't Skip Travellers Insurance?
You may be a student leaving India or a couple planning a romantic getaway abroad, but a few things always need to be sorted. You may have booked the best flights, packed to perfection and even made a stunning dream itinerary, but here's what you did not plan for:
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Missing your connecting flight in Frankfurt.
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Losing your passport in Rome.
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A sudden hospitalisation in Las Vegas, which costs more than your round-trip tickets.
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Or worse of them all, cancelling your trip because of a hospitalisation, even before it began.
As rare as these may sound, these are real issues faced by thousands of people. And when it does happen, these are mostly expensive, stressful and very easily avoidable with the right traveller's insurance.
Having a traveller's insurance is a must for any international trip. Be it a small long weekend vacation in Malaysia or a long sabbatical in Europe, all travellers must have a reliable safety net in case one or more of these situations disrupt their trip. Travellers insurance comes with built-in coverage for many medical and journey-related issues that help ease the financial burden during unexpected situations. Most policies also offer crucial customer support, emergency assistance, language interpretation and even help you contact concerned authorities to manage your condition.
Decoding Travel Insurance Terms
Trouble understanding something? You can check the travel insurance glossary provided in policy wording. Here are some of the most common travel insurance terms simplified for you:
Claim & Payout Terms
These are some technicalities to know well before you start comparing travel insurance plans online:
| Term | What it Means for You |
|---|---|
| Sum Insured | The maximum amount your insurer will pay you for all covered events combined. This is your policy limit. |
| Claim | A formal request you make to the insurer asking them to pay for a covered expense (like a lost bag or hospital bill). |
| Cashless Settlement | When your insurer pays the network hospital directly for your medical costs. You pay nothing upfront. (Requires pre-approval from the insurer.) |
| Reimbursement | When you pay for the expense yourself first, and the insurer pays you back later after you submit all the original bills and documents. |
| Notification of Claim | A mandatory step where you must inform your insurer immediately (usually within 24 to 48 hours) of an event that may lead to a claim. |
| Beneficiary | The person you name to receive a cash payout (e.g., in the unfortunate event of accidental death). |
Core Coverage Terms
Understanding these terms are important to understand your policy and coverage before you buy it:
| Term | What it Means for You |
|---|---|
| Deductible | A small, fixed amount you must pay out-of-pocket for a claim before the insurer starts covering the rest of the bill. This amount is non-reimbursable. |
| Sub-limits | Specific maximum limits on certain types of claims, even if your total Sum Insured is high (e.g., a cap on ambulance charges or passport loss). |
| Exclusion | Specific conditions or situations that your policy will not cover (e.g., losses due to war or self-inflicted injuries). |
| Pre-Existing Disease (PED) | An illness or injury you had or were treated for before buying the policy. These conditions often have limited coverage. |
| Coverage Period / Insured Journey | The duration your policy is active, typically from the start of your trip until your return date. |
| Insured Person | The person (policyholder) who purchased the plan and is covered by it (must be a permanent resident/citizen of India). |
Medical & Emergency Assistance
These terms relate specifically to your health and safety abroad.
| Term | What it Means for You |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medical Evacuation | Covers the cost of urgent transportation (like an air ambulance) to move you to the nearest suitable hospital in a medical crisis. |
| Hospitalisation | Being formally admitted to a hospital for treatment. Usually, a minimum stay of more than 24 hours is required for the claim to be valid. |
| Medical Expenses | Costs incurred due to a sudden illness or injury during the trip, as advised by a qualified doctor. |
| Accident | An unplanned, sudden, and unexpected event or mishap causing bodily harm during your trip. |
| Immediate Family Member | Close legal relatives (like your spouse, parents, children, or siblings) residing in India, whose emergency could trigger a trip-related claim. |
Trip & Baggage Related Terms
These terms cover disruptions to your travel itinerary.
| Term | What it Means for You |
|---|---|
| Trip Cancellation | Reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you must cancel your trip before leaving due to a covered reason (e.g., sudden illness or death of a relative). |
| Trip Interruption | Reimburses unused, prepaid expenses and/or extra travel costs if your trip is unexpectedly cut short after you have left due to a covered reason. |
| Baggage Loss | Coverage when your checked luggage is lost, stolen, or permanently damaged by the airline/carrier. |
| Common Carrier | An organization paid to transport people or cargo, such as a commercial airline, cruise ship, or passenger train. |
| Equipment Failure | When a Common Carrier (your flight/cruise) faces an unexpected mechanical breakdown, which may cause a delay or cancellation of your scheduled flight/trip. |
| Travelling Companion | Generally refers to up to two people travelling with you who have booked the trip together. |
Travel Insurance: FAQs
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Q: What is travel insurance?
Ans: Travel insurance is a special product which protects you financially while travelling abroad. -
Q: Why do I need travel insurance?
Ans: Travel insurance plans protect you from many financial burdens caused by various travel-related emergency issues. -
Q: What is considered as a pre-existing condition for travel?
Ans: Pre-existing conditions are the ones that you have been diagnosed with or are getting treated for. These include diabetes, high BP, thyroid, etc. Most Indian travel insurance companies don't cover pre-existing diseases. However, you can buy an add-on PED cover before travelling abroad. -
Q: Can I get travel insurance online for someone unrelated to me?
Ans: No. You can only purchase travel insurance for yourself and your parents, spouse, and children. -
Q: Is travel insurance mandatory for everyone?
Ans: No, insurance for travelling abroad is not mandatory for everyone unless a country specifically states so. For example, travel insurance is mandatory to get visas for 30+ countries. -
Q: Can I take travel insurance after booking my flight or hotel?
Ans: Definitely, in fact, it is suggested to buy travel insurance in India once your bookings are complete. This will help you get coverage for flight cancellations or bounced bookings later. -
Q: Will I get a refund if I cancel my travel insurance policy?
Ans: Yes, you can apply for trip cancellation and get a refund. However, this is possible only for certain scenarios like visa denial, during free look period, or trip cancellation. Most travel insurance companies refund on a pro-rata basis. -
Q: Is a checkup needed before I buy travel insurance policy?
Ans: No. You don't need to get a pre-policy check-up for travel insurance from India. However, people with PEDs or old travellers may need a checkup. -
Q: Do I need to buy travel insurance for short trips as well?
Ans: Definitely! Long trip or short, a mishap only needs minutes at times. Hence, to ensure maximum protection, you must buy travel insurance for short trips as well. -
Q: Can travellers with Hypertension/Diabetes purchase travel insurance plans?
Ans: Yes, you can buy travel insurance with pre-existing disease coverage. The premium may be higher, but it is available in India.
Travel insurance companies
Aditya Birla
Bajaj General
Care
Cholamandalam MS
Digit
Future Generali
HDFC ERGO General
ICICI Lombard
IFFCO Tokio
National Insurance
New India Assurance
Niva Bupa
Oriental
Reliance
Royal Sundaram
SBI
Shriram
Star
Tata AIG
United India
Universal Sompo
Zurich Kotak
