Disclaimer: Information on this page is for general guidance only. Airline policies, fares, discounts, and government rules change frequently. Always verify with the airline or official source before making decisions. Rules vary by airline, fare type, route, and date. TheBookFlight is not responsible for any changes in airline or government policies.
Note: Airline policies, fares, and rules change frequently. Always verify with the airline or official source before making decisions. Information provided is for general guidance only.
Travel insurance is one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of flight booking. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, travel insurance protects you against unexpected events like trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and flight delays. This guide covers everything Indian travellers need to know about buying, understanding, and claiming travel insurance.
| Coverage Type | What's Covered | Typical Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Emergency | Hospitalisation, doctor visits, ambulance, medical evacuation during travel | ₹5L–₹50L (domestic), $50K–$500K (international) |
| Trip Cancellation | Non-refundable costs if trip is cancelled due to covered reasons (illness, emergency, visa denial) | Up to ticket cost |
| Flight Delay | Hotel, meals, and essential expenses during extended flight delays (usually 6+ hours) | ₹5,000–₹25,000 |
| Lost Baggage | Compensation for permanently lost checked baggage | ₹15,000–₹75,000 |
| Baggage Delay | Essential purchase allowance if baggage is delayed (usually 12+ hours) | ₹5,000–₹20,000 |
| Personal Accident | Coverage for death or permanent disability during travel | ₹5L–₹50L |
| Passport Loss | Expenses for emergency passport replacement (international travel) | ₹10,000–₹25,000 |
Critical: Your regular health insurance (Star Health, HDFC ERGO, etc.) typically does NOT cover medical expenses abroad. International travel insurance is essential — a single hospital visit in the US can cost $10,000+, in Europe €5,000+. Even in Southeast Asia, costs can quickly exceed ₹1–2 lakh.
Travel insurance does NOT typically cover:
Pro Tip: Read the policy document carefully, especially the exclusions section. The cheapest plan isn't always the best. Compare coverage limits, exclusions, and claim settlement ratios before buying.
| Traveller Type | Recommended Coverage | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic leisure traveller | Trip cancellation + personal accident | ₹100–₹300 |
| Domestic business traveller | Trip cancellation + delay + baggage | ₹200–₹500 |
| International (Asia) | Medical ($50K) + trip cancellation + baggage | ₹500–₹1,500 |
| International (Europe/US) | Medical ($100K+) + trip cancellation + baggage + delay | ₹1,500–₹5,000 |
| Senior citizen (60+) | Comprehensive medical + evacuation + pre-existing cover | ₹3,000–₹10,000 |
| Frequent traveller | Annual multi-trip plan | ₹3,000–₹15,000/year |
TheBookFlight can help you find the best travel insurance options when you book your next flight.
Search FlightsNo, travel insurance is not mandatory for domestic flights in India. However, it's recommended for travellers with non-refundable tickets or those travelling for important events where cancellation would cause financial loss.
It depends on the destination. Schengen visa countries (most of Europe) require travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage. Many other countries don't mandate it but strongly recommend it. Some countries require proof of insurance for visa processing.
Domestic travel insurance costs ₹50–₹500 per trip. International travel insurance costs ₹500–₹5,000+ depending on destination, duration, and coverage. Annual multi-trip plans cost ₹3,000–₹15,000 per year and are more economical for frequent travellers.
Yes, you can buy travel insurance anytime before your departure. However, buying at the time of booking gives you immediate trip cancellation coverage. Most insurers allow purchase up to 24 hours before travel.
Some premium credit cards (like HDFC Infinia, Amex Platinum, SBI Elite) include complimentary travel insurance when you book flights using the card. Check your card benefits document or contact your bank to verify coverage details and limits.
Call your insurer's 24/7 helpline immediately during an emergency. Keep all original documents (bills, receipts, police reports). File your claim within the deadline specified in your policy (usually 30 days after return). Submit all required documents along with the claim form.