More Indians are traveling abroad in 2025—whether for work, leisure, or studies. With international travel comes unexpected risks like medical emergencies, lost baggage, and trip cancellations.
That’s why travel insurance is mandatory for many countries and strongly recommended for all international travelers. But what do Indians actually claim most often? Let’s break down the top 5 travel insurance claims filed abroad and why they matter.
1. Medical Emergencies & Hospitalization
- Medical costs abroad are extremely high (e.g., a simple fracture in the US can cost $10,000+).
- Indian travelers often claim for:
- Accidents (road mishaps, sports injuries).
- Sudden illnesses (flu, food poisoning, COVID-19).
- Example: An Indian student in Canada faced a ₹6 lakh bill for appendicitis surgery. His travel insurance covered 90% of the cost.
2. Flight Delays & Cancellations
- Airlines frequently delay or cancel flights due to weather or technical issues.
- Travel insurance reimburses:
- Hotel stays.
- Meals during delays.
- Alternate flight booking costs.
- This is the second most common claim among Indians in Europe and the US.
3. Lost or Delayed Baggage
- Airlines misplace luggage frequently during long-haul flights.
- Claims include:
- Reimbursement for essentials like clothes and toiletries.
- Compensation for permanently lost baggage.
- Tip: Always keep valuables like laptops/jewelry in cabin bags, since they are not always covered.
4. Passport Loss or Theft
- Losing a passport abroad is a nightmare—travel insurance helps by:
- Covering the cost of emergency passport re-issuance.
- Reimbursing local transport expenses to consulates.
- This claim is especially common among tourists in Southeast Asia and Europe.
5. Trip Cancellations Due to Emergencies
- Many travelers have to cancel trips at the last minute due to:
- Family medical emergencies.
- Visa rejections.
- Natural disasters at the destination.
- Travel insurance refunds prepaid expenses like tickets and hotel bookings.
Quick Infobox: Top Travel Insurance Claims (2025)
| Claim Type | % of Claims by Indians Abroad |
|---|---|
| Medical Emergencies | 40% |
| Flight Delays/Cancellations | 25% |
| Lost/Delayed Baggage | 15% |
| Passport Loss/Theft | 10% |
| Trip Cancellations | 10% |
Why This Matters
Travel insurance is not just a formality—it’s a safety net against unpredictable risks. For Indian travelers in 2025, the biggest financial shocks come from medical costs and trip disruptions. A small premium ensures peace of mind, making it a must-have for students, tourists, and business travelers alike.
👉 Next, read: Natural Disaster Coverage in General Insurance (Floods, Cyclones)
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