Every booking platform asks: "Add travel insurance for ₹199?" Should you actually buy it? Let's break it down.
Quick Verdict
For Domestic Flights: Usually NO
DGCA rules already protect you for cancellations and delays. Your existing health insurance covers medical emergencies.
For International Flights: Usually YES
Medical costs abroad can be ₹5-50 lakhs. Insurance costs only ₹500-₹2,000 for comprehensive coverage.
What Travel Insurance Actually Covers
When to BUY Insurance ✅
- International trips (medical costs abroad are brutal)
- Expensive tickets (₹15,000+ that you can't afford to lose)
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Adventure travel or sports activities
- Trips during monsoon/winter fog season
When to SKIP Insurance ❌
- Cheap domestic flights (₹3,000-₹5,000 tickets)
- You already have comprehensive health insurance
- The pre-selected insurance during booking (often overpriced)
- Short weekend trips with no checked baggage
Pro Tip
If you need international travel insurance, buy standalone policies from providers like ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz, or Star Health. They're often 30-50% cheaper than the add-on insurance offered during flight booking.
Book Without Pressure
Search Flights on TheBookFlight — we never pre-select insurance without your consent.
Related: Baggage Rules | Lost Luggage Guide