- The best annual travel insurance plans
- What is annual travel insurance?
- The price of annual travel insurance
- What does annual travel insurance cover?
- The Conditions of annual Travel Insurance
- Why take out annual travel insurance?
- How to choose the right annual travel insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover annual travel insurance?
- FAQ
annual travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Annual insurance covers unlimited trips within a year, making it ideal for frequent international travellers.
2. Price: An annual plan for multiple Europe trips can start from ₹8,000, saving you money.
3. Coverage: It covers medical emergencies and baggage loss but often excludes pre-existing conditions and adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Cards and health plans like Star Health offer very limited or no overseas travel protection.
5. Tips: Check individual trip duration limits and declare all pre-existing medical conditions before purchasing your policy.
6. Other useful info: For Schengen visas, ensure your policy meets the minimum €30,000 medical coverage requirement.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in India, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best annual travel insurance.
The best annual travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best annual travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025. These policies stand out for their high medical reimbursement limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, offering comprehensive protection for frequent travelers.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₹35,00,000 | ₹1,500 | • Comprehensive worldwide coverage. • Fully digital claims process. • 24/7 emergency support. • Family members covered under same plan. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₹30,00,000 | ₹2,500 | • Mobile app access to doctors. • 24/7 multilingual assistance. • Direct billing. • Covers adventure sports. |
| Tourist Card | ₹25,00,000 | ₹3,000 | • Fast claim processing. • Pre-existing conditions covered. • WhatsApp support. • Global telemedicine service. |
| World Travel | ₹20,00,000 | ₹2,000 | • COVID-19 medical coverage. • Family coverage options. • Business travel benefits. • Comprehensive evacuation included. |
| Globe Partner | ₹30,00,000 | ₹1,500 | • Direct settlement network. • Adventure sports included. • Paperless claim submission. • Preferred plan for seniors. |
| Globe Traveller | ₹35,00,000 | ₹1,500 | • Long trip coverage up to 12 months. • Support in multiple languages. • Age 60+ premium stability. • Emergency cash advance. |
• Fully digital claims process.
• 24/7 emergency support.
• Family members covered under same plan.
• 24/7 multilingual assistance.
• Direct billing.
• Covers adventure sports.
• Pre-existing conditions covered.
• WhatsApp support.
• Global telemedicine service.
• Family coverage options.
• Business travel benefits.
• Comprehensive evacuation included.
• Adventure sports included.
• Paperless claim submission.
• Preferred plan for seniors.
• Support in multiple languages.
• Age 60+ premium stability.
• Emergency cash advance.
The best annual travel insurance depends on your unique needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to choose and subscribe online to your preferred plan.
Compare the best travel insurance plans for freeI compareWhat is annual travel insurance?
Annual travel insurance is a policy that covers multiple trips taken within a 12-month period under a single contract. It typically includes medical expense cover, cancellation, baggage, and personal liability for every journey taken within the policy year.
It is designed for frequent travelers in India who want continuous protection and cost savings.
Annual travel insurance is sometimes called multi-trip travel insurance.
Each trip usually has a time limit, such as 30 or 60 days per journey.
It should not be confused with single-trip travel insurance, which covers only one journey.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out annual travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- If you take multiple international trips from India each year.
- For frequent business travel to different countries from India.
- When needing Schengen visa-compliant insurance for multiple European visits.
- To save money versus buying separate policies for each trip.
- For spontaneous or last-minute trips without buying new insurance.
- When visiting family abroad multiple times in a single year.
The price of annual travel insurance
On average, annual travel insurance costs between 2% and 5% of your estimated annual trip expenses.
| Trip | Trip cost (INR) | Indicative price per person (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 trips per year to Thailand (7 days each) | 3,00,000 | 6,000 to 15,000 |
| Annual family vacations: Europe (10 days) + 2 in India | 4,50,000 | 10,000 to 22,000 |
| Frequent business travel: 6 trips in Asia | 5,00,000 | 12,000 to 25,000 |
| Round-the-world backpacking (6 months, 4 continents) | 9,00,000 | 20,000 to 40,000 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your annual travel insurance depends on several factors:
- travel frequency: more trips increase total risk and can raise the premium.
- trip duration: longer individual trips may result in higher pricing.
- destinations: traveling to countries with high medical costs often leads to higher premiums.
- traveller’s age: older travellers usually pay more.
- level of coverage: premium plans and extra options, such as adventure sports or valuables cover, increase the price.
What does annual travel insurance cover?
Annual travel insurance is a policy that protects you for multiple trips of up to 30 to 90 days each over a full year.
It is especially useful if you travel more than twice yearly, as it covers all your journeys within a 12-month period.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel for a covered reason before departure. | You should choose at least ₹50,000 cover with a deductible no higher than ₹500. Cancellations due to personal choice, pre-existing illness or government travel bans are not covered. |
| 🛫 Missed departure | Covers costs if you miss your flight because of reasons like strike, accident, or delay. | Look for minimum ₹10,000 compensation with no deductible. Being late, not allowing enough time or missing connection because of your fault is usually excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical treatment if you fall ill or get injured while away. | Always have at least ₹10L cover for developed countries, with a maximum deductible of ₹1,000. Routine care, pregnancy, and undeclared pre-existing conditions are excluded. |
| 🚑 Emergency medical evacuation | Key guarantee. Organises and covers emergency transport to India or nearest adequate hospital. | This must be unlimited wherever possible or a minimum of ₹10L, arranged by the insurer. Repatriation for minor illnesses, preference or without approval is not covered. |
| 🪥 Emergency dental care | Covers the cost of dental treatment in case of sudden pain or injury. | Opt for at least ₹10,000 cover and a deductible below ₹500. Routine treatment, cosmetic care, and pre-existing dental issues are not reimbursed. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation for your luggage if lost, stolen, or damaged during your travel. | At least ₹30,000 cover per trip is advised, with a deductible no higher than ₹1,000. Unattended, left-behind, or fragile items are commonly excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays a lump sum if your plane or train is delayed for several hours. | There should be ₹3,000+ after 4 hours of delay, no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or without proof are usually not covered. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability abroad | Key guarantee. Covers the costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property abroad. | Minimum ₹10L of cover, deductible under ₹2,500. Negligent, professional or family-related damage and use of vehicles are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds for unused accommodation and transport if you must return home early for a covered reason. | Seek at least ₹20,000 reimbursement, low deductible or none. Voluntary early returns, minor reasons, or business obligations are not covered. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Pays compensation if you suffer permanent disability or death while travelling. | Minimum ₹5L cover is recommended, preferably with no deductible. Accidents during risky sports, self-harm, or while under the influence are excluded. |
Cancellations due to personal choice, pre-existing illness or government travel bans are not covered.
Being late, not allowing enough time or missing connection because of your fault is usually excluded.
Routine care, pregnancy, and undeclared pre-existing conditions are excluded.
Repatriation for minor illnesses, preference or without approval is not covered.
Routine treatment, cosmetic care, and pre-existing dental issues are not reimbursed.
Unattended, left-behind, or fragile items are commonly excluded.
Delays under 4 hours or without proof are usually not covered.
Negligent, professional or family-related damage and use of vehicles are excluded.
Voluntary early returns, minor reasons, or business obligations are not covered.
Accidents during risky sports, self-harm, or while under the influence are excluded.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the annual travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The Conditions of annual Travel Insurance
To ensure your annual travel insurance remains valid, you need to follow several important conditions.
- Timing of subscription: you must purchase the policy before your first trip in the coverage year, while you are still in India.
- Residency requirement: you must be an Indian citizen or a legal resident at the time of policy purchase.
- Trip duration limits: each trip should not exceed the individual duration limit in your contract, often 30 to 90 days per trip.
- Number of trips: unlimited trips are usually covered but only if each trip falls within the defined period and duration limits.
- Covered destinations: travel must be to regions and countries included within your policy’s geographical scope.
- Incident reporting: you must inform the insurer promptly in case of emergencies, illness, loss, or any event requiring assistance.
- Supporting documents: you must provide official documentation or receipts for any claim such as medical emergencies or lost baggage.
- Excluded activities: coverage does not apply to exclusions listed in the policy, for example specific sports, pre-existing conditions, or travel for medical treatment.
Watch out!
A common mistake is assuming an annual policy covers one long trip. Most plans in India have a per-trip duration limit, often 30-60 days. If your journey exceeds this, you might not be covered. Always check the maximum days allowed per trip before you travel.
Why take out annual travel insurance?
Frequent travel exposes you to many risks, and medical problems abroad can lead to major expenses even with a short trip.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, depending on policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Fully covered if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to the policy maximum, often 100% |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually 100%, after applicable deductible |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Typically 100% within policy limits |
- Europe: ₹25,000 to ₹30,000
- North America: ₹45,000 to ₹60,000
- Asia: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000
- Europe: ₹8,00,000 to ₹12,00,000
- North America: ₹15,00,000 to ₹22,00,000
- Asia: ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,00,000
- Europe: ₹4,00,000 to ₹7,00,000
- North America: ₹12,00,000 to ₹16,00,000
- Asia: ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000
- Europe: ₹15,000 to ₹20,000
- North America: ₹35,000 to ₹50,000
- Asia: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000
- Europe: ₹20,000 to ₹25,000
- North America: ₹40,000 to ₹55,000
- Asia: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical expenses, annual travel insurance may include other important guarantees: trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or delayed luggage, personal accident, liability protection, teleconsultation services and emergency cash advances, providing added security and peace of mind throughout the year.
Good to know
For frequent travellers, an annual plan is more cost-effective than multiple policies. Avoid crippling medical bills abroad—an appendicitis in the US can cost over ₹12 Lakh! Get year-long peace of mind with comprehensive plans from insurers like Chapka, covering all your adventures.
How to choose the right annual travel insurance
Coverage limits, benefit ceilings, and exclusions in annual travel insurance can differ greatly from one plan to another.
Comparing policy features is crucial for frequent travelers in India, to ensure each trip is adequately protected and avoid unexpected expenses.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🪙 Reimbursement limits | Annual plans may have limits for each trip or in aggregate per year. Check if medical, evacuation, and baggage limits are per journey or per policy. | Opt for a minimum overall medical cover of ₹10,00,000, especially if you travel to developed countries. |
| 📉 Deductibles | Deductible amounts impact how much you pay for each claim. They can be per trip, per claim, or yearly. | Choose plans with low or fixed deductibles to reduce unexpected costs during frequent trips. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Rules about trip limits, advance booking, and activity exclusions apply. Annual plans often limit trip length. | Confirm the maximum days per trip (typically 30-90) fits your travel schedule. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Entry age restrictions apply and may affect renewal as you get older. Premiums rise for seniors. | For travelers over 60, check for policies with higher medical limits and fewer exclusions, especially for pre-existing conditions. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Policies may allow family, spouse, or children to be included. Group needs differ. | If you travel as a family, select a multi-person or floater plan to save on premiums and paperwork. |
| 🌏 Geographic area | Coverage and price depend on where you travel most. Not all areas (like USA/Canada) are always included. | Ensure global coverage or add regions as needed, especially for frequent visits outside Asia. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards or company-provided plans may already cover some risks. These affect value-for-money. | Review your company and bank card benefits before purchasing to avoid duplicate coverage. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure sports, work trips, or study abroad may be excluded. Special riders are needed. | Disclose plans for risky or unique activities to be fully covered during all types of trips. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Allows quick policy management, instant renewal, and digital claims. Saves effort for frequent travelers. | Use insurers with robust mobile apps for managing annual policies and submitting real-time claims. |
Check if medical, evacuation, and baggage limits are per journey or per policy.
They can be per trip, per claim, or yearly.
Annual plans often limit trip length.
Premiums rise for seniors.
Group needs differ.
Not all areas (like USA/Canada) are always included.
These affect value-for-money.
Special riders are needed.
Saves effort for frequent travelers.
Do my current insurance policies cover annual travel insurance?
It is understandable to ask yourself if your existing insurance, such as credit card insurance or public health insurance, can provide annual travel insurance for your trips, but unfortunately it is often insufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | annual travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (ESIC/CGHS) | Never | Emergency care in select cases abroad, medical expenses up to ₹1,00,000 with strict limits. No coverage for trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, travel delay, or comprehensive global evacuation. | Travel insurance covers up to ₹50,00,000 for medical, evacuation, trip cancellation, baggage, and liability worldwide, all in one policy. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, Max Bupa) | Almost Never | Limited emergency medical abroad, possible coverage up to ₹10,00,000, but excludes non-medical claims. No coverage for repatriation, baggage mishaps, trip interruption, or missed connection. | Travel insurance includes repatriation, baggage loss up to ₹1,00,000, trip delays, and more, with higher and broader limits. |
| Classic credit card (SBI Elite, HDFC Millennia) | Almost Never | Some medical emergency, baggage delay, accident insurance, often capped at ₹2,00,000 to ₹5,00,000. No comprehensive medical, trip cancellation, travel interruption, or 24/7 international assistance. | Travel insurance provides higher medical limits up to ₹50,00,000, trip cancellation, round-the-clock emergency support, and more. |
| Premium credit card (Axis Magnus, HDFC Regalia) | Limited coverage | Medical up to ₹6,00,000, baggage loss, trip delay, and accident cover. No robust evacuation benefits, missed connection, or extensive personal liability coverage worldwide. | Travel insurance includes global evacuation up to ₹1,00,00,000, extended liability, and full trip protection beyond credit card offers. |
No coverage for trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, travel delay, or comprehensive global evacuation.
No coverage for repatriation, baggage mishaps, trip interruption, or missed connection.
No comprehensive medical, trip cancellation, travel interruption, or 24/7 international assistance.
No robust evacuation benefits, missed connection, or extensive personal liability coverage worldwide.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance policies often exclude trip interruptions due to a relative’s illness or death. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. For true peace of mind, it is always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is annual travel insurance mandatory?
Annual travel insurance is not mandatory for Indian citizens, but certain countries, like Schengen states, require proof of insurance for visa approval. Although not compulsory for all trips, it is highly recommended, especially for frequent international travelers. For example, having insurance is crucial if you face a medical emergency while on business in Europe or repeated trips abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase annual travel insurance?
It is best to buy annual travel insurance just before your first planned trip of the policy year. Purchasing early ensures you have coverage for pre-departure cancellations, sudden medical issues, or travel disruptions. If you travel more than twice a year, annual policies deliver the most value and convenience.
How do I purchase annual travel insurance?
Start by comparing different annual travel insurance plans using HelloSafe’s comparison platform. Carefully check policy guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to cover limits, trip duration per journey, and any restrictions. Purchase your selected policy online and receive the certificate by email immediately after payment.
Can I purchase annual travel insurance after booking my first trip?
Yes, you can purchase annual travel insurance even after booking your trip, but it is best to do so before your journey begins. Early purchase maximizes coverage, especially for trip cancellations or emergencies that may arise before departure. Remember, coverage starts only from the effective date of your policy.
How do I make a claim on annual travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline or use its online/mobile claim system as soon as possible after the incident. Submit all required documents like travel tickets, medical reports, and bills electronically or by mail. Timely notification and accurate paperwork speed up the claim settlement process.
Does annual travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Some annual travel insurance plans offer coverage for adventure sports such as skiing, trekking, or scuba diving, often as optional add-ons. Always check if your chosen policy includes these activities or allows you to buy extra coverage. Exclusions frequently apply, so read the policy terms in detail.
Can I include my family in my annual travel insurance policy?
Many insurers offer annual family floater plans, letting you cover your spouse and dependent children under one policy. These plans are cost-effective and practical for families who travel together multiple times a year. Coverage details, such as age limits and travel frequency, may vary by insurer.
Is annual travel insurance mandatory?
Annual travel insurance is not mandatory for Indian citizens, but certain countries, like Schengen states, require proof of insurance for visa approval. Although not compulsory for all trips, it is highly recommended, especially for frequent international travelers. For example, having insurance is crucial if you face a medical emergency while on business in Europe or repeated trips abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase annual travel insurance?
It is best to buy annual travel insurance just before your first planned trip of the policy year. Purchasing early ensures you have coverage for pre-departure cancellations, sudden medical issues, or travel disruptions. If you travel more than twice a year, annual policies deliver the most value and convenience.
How do I purchase annual travel insurance?
Start by comparing different annual travel insurance plans using HelloSafe’s comparison platform. Carefully check policy guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to cover limits, trip duration per journey, and any restrictions. Purchase your selected policy online and receive the certificate by email immediately after payment.
Can I purchase annual travel insurance after booking my first trip?
Yes, you can purchase annual travel insurance even after booking your trip, but it is best to do so before your journey begins. Early purchase maximizes coverage, especially for trip cancellations or emergencies that may arise before departure. Remember, coverage starts only from the effective date of your policy.
How do I make a claim on annual travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline or use its online/mobile claim system as soon as possible after the incident. Submit all required documents like travel tickets, medical reports, and bills electronically or by mail. Timely notification and accurate paperwork speed up the claim settlement process.
Does annual travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Some annual travel insurance plans offer coverage for adventure sports such as skiing, trekking, or scuba diving, often as optional add-ons. Always check if your chosen policy includes these activities or allows you to buy extra coverage. Exclusions frequently apply, so read the policy terms in detail.
Can I include my family in my annual travel insurance policy?
Many insurers offer annual family floater plans, letting you cover your spouse and dependent children under one policy. These plans are cost-effective and practical for families who travel together multiple times a year. Coverage details, such as age limits and travel frequency, may vary by insurer.
