- The Best Domestic Travel Insurance Plans
- What Is Domestic Travel Insurance?
- The price of domestic travel insurance
- What does domestic travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of domestic travel insurance
- Why take out domestic travel insurance?
- How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover domestic travel?
- FAQ
domestic travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Domestic travel insurance covers unforeseen risks like medical emergencies and trip cancellations during your travels within India.
2. Price: A one-week domestic policy in India typically costs between ₹400 and ₹800, depending on the coverage.
3. Coverage: It usually covers medical aid, trip cancellation, and lost baggage, but excludes pre-existing conditions and adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Your health insurance and bank cards offer limited or no cover for non-medical risks like trip cancellation.
5. Tips: Before buying, check the insurer's list of cashless network hospitals available in your destination city or region.
6. Other useful info: Many policies now include coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses and trip interruptions, which is essential.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in India, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best domestic travel insurance.
The Best Domestic Travel Insurance Plans
Here is a selection of the best domestic travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025. These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, providing optimal protection for any trip within the country.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₹4,00,000 | ₹2,000 | • Wide cashless hospital network. • Fast claim settlement. • Free 24/7 customer support. • Includes support for trip delays. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₹2,00,000 | ₹2,500 | • 24/7 on-call assistance. • Mobile claim tracking. • Covers adventure sports. • User-friendly app for travelers. |
| Tourist Card | ₹3,00,000 | ₹3,000 | • Cashless hospitalization at top hospitals. • Easy online policy renewal. • Family and group travel options. • Emergency helpline. |
| World Travel | ₹2,50,000 | ₹2,000 | • Coverage for pre-existing conditions. • Digital document submission. • Quick response in medical emergencies. • Family plans available. |
| Globe Partner | ₹2,00,000 | ₹5,000 | • Senior citizen friendly. • High medical limits. • 24/7 medical helpline. • Fast online claims. |
| Globe Traveller | ₹3,00,000 | ₹3,000 | • Extended duration options. • Includes adventure activity coverage. • Covers evacuation and repatriation. • Simple paperless process. |
• Fast claim settlement.
• Free 24/7 customer support.
• Includes support for trip delays.
• Mobile claim tracking.
• Covers adventure sports.
• User-friendly app for travelers.
• Easy online policy renewal.
• Family and group travel options.
• Emergency helpline.
• Digital document submission.
• Quick response in medical emergencies.
• Family plans available.
• High medical limits.
• 24/7 medical helpline.
• Fast online claims.
• Includes adventure activity coverage.
• Covers evacuation and repatriation.
• Simple paperless process.
The best domestic travel insurance may vary depending on your needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance plans for freeI compareWhat Is Domestic Travel Insurance?
Domestic travel insurance is a policy that offers financial protection to travellers for trips entirely within India’s borders. It covers unforeseen events like medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, accident, and travel delays during journeys between or within Indian states.
The purpose is to ensure travellers have access to medical care and support against unexpected incidents anywhere in India.
It is distinct from international travel insurance, as domestic travel insurance is limited to risks within India and does not cover overseas travel.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out domestic travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- When visiting remote areas like Ladakh with limited medical facilities.
- If you plan to do adventure sports like trekking or rafting.
- For expensive or non-refundable trips with high cancellation fees.
- When travelling with senior citizens or young children.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, even stable ones.
- During monsoon season, when trip disruptions are more likely.
- To cover potential loss or delay of your checked-in baggage.
The price of domestic travel insurance
On average, domestic travel insurance in India costs between 1% and 3% of the total trip cost.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 3 days in Goa (city break) | ₹15,000 | ₹150 to ₹300 |
| 1 week Kerala family vacation | ₹35,000 | ₹350 to ₹700 |
| 10-day Rajasthan heritage tour | ₹60,000 | ₹600 to ₹1,100 |
| 2 weeks Northeast India backpacking | ₹80,000 | ₹800 to ₹1,500 |
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 domestic travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer trips generally cost more to insure.
- destination within India: remote or high-risk areas may increase premiums.
- traveller’s age: senior travellers are usually charged higher prices.
- level of coverage: higher coverage limits and extra benefits raise the cost.
- custom options: add-ons for adventure sports or pre-existing conditions will increase the premium.
What does domestic travel insurance cover?
Domestic travel insurance provides valuable financial protection for trips taken within India.
It helps manage unexpected medical emergencies, travel disruptions, and baggage issues during domestic journeys.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 Trip cancellation | Reimburses costs if you must cancel your trip before departure for a covered reason. | At least ₹25,000 cover is recommended with a deductible below ₹500. Cancellations for personal reasons or work changes are usually excluded. |
| 🚌 Missed departure | Pays for extra transport if you miss a bus, train, or flight due to a documented delay. | Look for ₹5,000 minimum cover and no deductible. Excludes delays not confirmed by the provider or late arrival by the traveller. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Covers the loss, theft, or damage to your checked baggage during the trip. | Choose at least ₹20,000 cover. The deductible should not exceed ₹1,000. Unattended bags and valuables above set limits are not covered. |
| ⏳ Travel delay | Compensates for essentials if your train, bus, or flight is delayed beyond a set time. | Opt for minimum ₹2,500 after 4 hours delay, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or those without supporting documentation are excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical emergencies (in India) | Key guarantee. Pays costs for urgent medical care due to sudden illness or injury. | Pick at least ₹2 lakh cover and ensure deductibles are below ₹2,500. Routine medical care, pre-existing conditions, and self-inflicted injuries are not covered. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Key guarantee. Arranges and pays for transport to the nearest hospital in an emergency. | We recommend a minimum of ₹1 lakh cover and no deductible. Non-urgent or personal choice evacuations are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for necessary dental treatment due to an accident or severe pain during the trip. | Go for at least ₹5,000 in coverage with deductibles less than ₹500. Cosmetic dental procedures and pre-existing issues are not included. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers you if you accidentally cause injury or property damage to a third party. | Minimum ₹2 lakh cover is advisable. Deductible should be less than ₹1,000. Excludes damage to family, rented items, or intentional acts. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Offers compensation for accidental death or permanent disability during travel. | A ₹1 lakh minimum cover is wise; the plan should have no deductible. High-risk activities, intoxication, or illegal acts are not covered. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds unused pre-paid services if you return home early for a covered serious reason. | Look for ₹10,000 minimum coverage and a low deductible. Voluntary early returns or minor disruptions are mostly not eligible. |
Cancellations for personal reasons or work changes are usually excluded.
Excludes delays not confirmed by the provider or late arrival by the traveller.
Unattended bags and valuables above set limits are not covered.
Delays under 4 hours or those without supporting documentation are excluded.
Routine medical care, pre-existing conditions, and self-inflicted injuries are not covered.
Non-urgent or personal choice evacuations are excluded.
Cosmetic dental procedures and pre-existing issues are not included.
Excludes damage to family, rented items, or intentional acts.
High-risk activities, intoxication, or illegal acts are not covered.
Voluntary early returns or minor disruptions are mostly not eligible.
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 domestic travel insurance best suited to your needs, easily compare plans on HelloSafe.
The conditions of domestic travel insurance
Domestic travel insurance in India is valid only if certain conditions are met during your journey.
- Purchase before start: you must buy the policy before leaving your city or residence for the domestic trip.
- Coverage period: the insurance applies only during the specific dates and locations stated in the policy.
- Residency requirement: you must be an Indian citizen or legal resident at the time of purchase.
- Purpose of travel: coverage is usually valid for personal, leisure, or business trips, not for permanent relocation.
- Trip duration limit: you must not exceed the maximum trip length specified in your contract, such as 30 days.
- Documented incidents: you must submit official documents like medical reports or police statements for claims on illness, theft, or accidents.
- Excluded destinations: travel to restricted or official danger zones, as notified by Indian authorities, is not covered.
- Notification of events: you must inform the insurer promptly in case of medical emergencies or cancellations as per policy terms.
Watch out!
A major misunderstanding is that your regular health insurance is enough for domestic travel. However, most travel policies exclude pre-existing conditions unless specifically declared and covered. An unexpected flare-up of a chronic illness might not be reimbursed, leaving you with large, unplanned medical bills.
Why take out domestic travel insurance?
While travelling, there are many potential risks, and even simple health issues can lead to high expenses in different regions of India.
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%, subject to sum insured |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to 100%, if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100%, within coverage limits |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually 100%, up to specified amounts |
| Consultation and treatment for an intestinal infection |
| Generally 100%, after deductible |
- Tier-1 cities: ₹3,000 to ₹5,000
- Tier-2 cities: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000
- Tier-1 cities: ₹25,000 to ₹50,000
- Remote areas: ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000
- Tier-1 cities: ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000
- Tier-2 cities: ₹40,000 to ₹80,000
- Tier-1 cities: ₹2,000 to ₹4,000
- Tier-2 cities: ₹1,000 to ₹2,500
- Tier-1 cities: ₹2,500 to ₹4,500
- Tier-2 cities: ₹1,200 to ₹2,800
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, domestic travel insurance may also include other guarantees: trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or delayed luggage, personal accident cover, liability protection, emergency assistance, and even teleconsultation services.
Good to know
Don't let a sudden illness or cancelled flight ruin your trip in India. Protect yourself from high medical bills and travel mishaps for a small premium. With comprehensive plans from insurers like Chapka, you can explore the country with complete peace of mind.
How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
Coverage amounts and reimbursement conditions in domestic travel insurance can differ substantially. It is important to compare policies carefully, looking at the guarantees, exclusions, and criteria that will actually suit your trip and profile best. Making the right comparison will help you avoid unpleasant surprises during your journey.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🪙 Reimbursement limits | Determines the maximum payout for claims, especially important for medical or trip interruptions. | Choose a total insured sum of at least ₹2,00,000 to handle most emergencies across regions. Always check that medical, baggage, and accidental limits match your travel risks. |
| 📉 Deductibles | Impacts how much you pay yourself before the insurance starts paying. | For domestic plans, a low or zero deductible offers more value in case of multiple small claims. Prefer insurers with clear, low deductibles for medical or bag claims. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Defines when coverage is valid and what is excluded. | Pay attention to rules for trip cancellation, activity exclusions, and claim timelines. Read the policy booklet and clarify doubts before you pay the first premium. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Age-related restrictions can increase premiums or limit benefits for seniors and children. | Plans may differ for those over 60. Look for senior-friendly options with no harsh age limits if you travel as a family or elder. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Needs vary for solo, family, business, or group travellers. | Some contracts are better for families or frequent domestic trips. Check if a family floater or group plan saves cost and paperwork for your trip type. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Coverage limits may not apply to extended or multi-stop journeys within India. | Make sure coverage matches your full itinerary. If you plan visits beyond 15 days, opt for higher limits or long-stay policies. |
| 🏥 Existing coverage | You might already have partial protection from a credit card or health insurance. | This affects your claim eligibility and value. List your current policies, then only buy extra protection for real gaps in coverage. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Some plans exclude risky activities, like trekking or rafting, without specific riders. | Common in India’s popular tourist areas. Always inform your insurer about sports or adventure plans for full protection. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Buying online saves time and allows faster claims processing. | Delays may occur with traditional agents. Favor providers with quick digital purchase and WhatsApp claim service for easier travel support. |
Do my current insurance policies cover domestic travel?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances such as credit card insurance or the public health system can offer you a domestic travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | domestic travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (ESIC) | Never | Medical treatment at empaneled hospitals, only as per ESIC rates, usually no private care, no trip support. No trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal accident or liability, emergency evacuation, or travel delays are covered. | Travel insurance covers up to ₹10,00,000 for emergencies including cancellation, baggage, delays, and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, Max Bupa) | Almost Never | Emergency medical and hospitalization, up to ₹5,00,000, only for health, no travel-related benefits. No cover for cancellations, lost baggage, travel delays, personal liability, or emergency evacuation is included. | Travel insurance adds trip protection, cancellation, accident, with ₹2,00,000 or more for extra travel guarantees. |
| Classic credit card (SBI Card, ICICI Classic) | Almost Never | Emergency medical, sometimes up to ₹1,00,000, baggage loss up to ₹15,000, very limited trip support. Travel delay, cancellation, emergency evacuation, liability, high medical bills are not covered. | Travel insurance covers higher limits, up to ₹5,00,000 plus delays, cancellation, and liability which cards exclude. |
| Premium credit card (HDFC Regalia, Axis Magnus) | Limited Coverage | Medical expenses up to ₹3,00,000, baggage delay up to ₹30,000, some accident or delay cover, strict limits and exclusions. Many travel-specific risks like full liability, high-cost evacuation, and all-cause cancellation are excluded. | Travel insurance extends coverage to ₹10,00,000, with full trip interruption, evacuation, and liability guarantees. |
No trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal accident or liability, emergency evacuation, or travel delays are covered.
No cover for cancellations, lost baggage, travel delays, personal liability, or emergency evacuation is included.
Travel delay, cancellation, emergency evacuation, liability, high medical bills are not covered.
Many travel-specific risks like full liability, high-cost evacuation, and all-cause cancellation are excluded.
Expert advice
Be aware: bank cards and health insurance often exclude trip interruptions due to a relative’s illness or death. Read the policy conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises while travelling. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is not legally mandatory in India. However, it can be required for specific government-sponsored group tours, certain adventure activity packages, or when booking with select luxury resorts. Even though most individual travelers are not obligated to buy it, domestic travel insurance is strongly recommended. For example, a medical emergency during a mountain trek could lead to high medical or evacuation costs, making insurance crucial in such situations.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
It is best to purchase domestic travel insurance as soon as you book your trip and before your departure date. Early purchase ensures you are protected from trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or unforeseen events that may arise before or during travel. Waiting until the last minute can leave you exposed to non-refundable losses or gaps in coverage.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
To purchase domestic travel insurance, start by comparing available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Next, review the details of coverage and all specific exclusions relevant to domestic trips, such as region-based risks or activity limitations. Once you have selected the right option, proceed to purchase online and pay securely. After payment, you will receive the insurance certificate directly by email.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy domestic travel insurance even after booking your transportation or accommodation. However, it is best to do so before your trip begins, as certain benefits like coverage for trip cancellation or pre-departure incidents are typically only valid if the policy is purchased before the trip starts.
How do I make a claim on my domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, notify your insurer as soon as the incident occurs, either through their helpline or online portal. Submit all required documents, such as booking confirmations, medical bills, or police reports. Most insurers provide a digital claim process for faster settlements, and you should keep copies of all communication until your claim is resolved.
Does domestic travel insurance cover adventure sports or high-risk activities?
Coverage for adventure sports, such as trekking, rafting, or paragliding, is not always included in standard domestic policies. Some insurers offer optional add-ons for such activities, so it is important to check and purchase adventure sports coverage if your trip involves high-risk pursuits.
Can I get domestic travel insurance for family or group trips?
Yes, many insurers in India offer family floater or group domestic travel insurance policies. These plans provide a single coverage for all listed members, which is both convenient and cost-effective for families or organized groups traveling together. Each member must be declared at the time of purchase, and coverage details may vary by insurer.
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is not legally mandatory in India. However, it can be required for specific government-sponsored group tours, certain adventure activity packages, or when booking with select luxury resorts. Even though most individual travelers are not obligated to buy it, domestic travel insurance is strongly recommended. For example, a medical emergency during a mountain trek could lead to high medical or evacuation costs, making insurance crucial in such situations.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
It is best to purchase domestic travel insurance as soon as you book your trip and before your departure date. Early purchase ensures you are protected from trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or unforeseen events that may arise before or during travel. Waiting until the last minute can leave you exposed to non-refundable losses or gaps in coverage.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
To purchase domestic travel insurance, start by comparing available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Next, review the details of coverage and all specific exclusions relevant to domestic trips, such as region-based risks or activity limitations. Once you have selected the right option, proceed to purchase online and pay securely. After payment, you will receive the insurance certificate directly by email.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy domestic travel insurance even after booking your transportation or accommodation. However, it is best to do so before your trip begins, as certain benefits like coverage for trip cancellation or pre-departure incidents are typically only valid if the policy is purchased before the trip starts.
How do I make a claim on my domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, notify your insurer as soon as the incident occurs, either through their helpline or online portal. Submit all required documents, such as booking confirmations, medical bills, or police reports. Most insurers provide a digital claim process for faster settlements, and you should keep copies of all communication until your claim is resolved.
Does domestic travel insurance cover adventure sports or high-risk activities?
Coverage for adventure sports, such as trekking, rafting, or paragliding, is not always included in standard domestic policies. Some insurers offer optional add-ons for such activities, so it is important to check and purchase adventure sports coverage if your trip involves high-risk pursuits.
Can I get domestic travel insurance for family or group trips?
Yes, many insurers in India offer family floater or group domestic travel insurance policies. These plans provide a single coverage for all listed members, which is both convenient and cost-effective for families or organized groups traveling together. Each member must be declared at the time of purchase, and coverage details may vary by insurer.
