- The best Round-the-world travel insurance plans
- What exactly is Round-the-world travel insurance?
- The cost of Round-the-world travel insurance
- What does Round-the-world travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
- Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
- Choosing the right Round-the-world travel insurance
- Is Round-the-world travel covered by your current insurance policies?
- FAQ
Round-the-world travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: This insurance provides continuous coverage for long-term trips spanning multiple countries over several months.
2. Price: A basic three-month plan can cost from ₹8,000, varying by destinations and your age.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical emergencies and repatriation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Indian bank cards and health policies like ESIC or Star Health offer insufficient overseas coverage.
5. Tips: Always verify coverage for all destinations and any planned adventure sports before purchasing your policy.
6. Other useful info: Many countries require proof of adequate travel insurance as part of their visa application process.
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 Round-the-world travel insurance.
The best Round-the-world travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best Round-the-world travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025. These policies stand out for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and flexible terms, providing optimal protection for long journeys across multiple countries.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.5 crore ₹ | ₹0 |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1 crore ₹ | ₹0 |
|
| Tourist Card | 75 lakh ₹ | ₹2,500 |
|
| World Travel | 1 crore ₹ (USA/Canada), 30 lakh ₹ (others) | ₹5,000 |
|
| Globe Partner | 30 lakh ₹ | ₹0 |
|
| Globe Traveller | 50 lakh ₹ | ₹0 |
|
- Complete worldwide coverage.
- Online claims and telemedicine.
- No age-based premium increase.
- Multi-language support.
- 24/7 helpline and medical advice.
- Covers sports and adventure.
- Quick reimbursement.
- No deductible policy.
- Direct settlement for hospitals.
- Multi-currency payments.
- Recognised for student/youth travelers.
- Cancellation included.
- Covers pandemic quarantine costs.
- Personal liability included.
- Passport loss assistance.
- Family rates available.
- Inexpensive for travelers under 40.
- Quick online enrollment.
- Multiple journey extensions.
- Emergency cash included.
- Long trip coverage, up to 12 months.
- Stable premium after age 60.
- Reintegration support.
- Assistance in several languages.
The best Round-the-world travel insurance may vary depending on your individual needs. 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 exactly is Round-the-world travel insurance?
Round-the-world travel insurance is a comprehensive policy designed to cover long-term international trips across multiple countries and continents, typically for periods of 3 to 12 months or more.
It offers continuous protection for Indian travelers who move frequently between destinations, including medical emergencies, evacuations, trip cancellations, baggage issues, and personal liability.
Round-the-world travel insurance is not the same as regular single-trip insurance, which only covers one journey and for a shorter duration.
It is also called globe-trotter insurance or long-stay travel insurance.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Round-the-world travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- For trips lasting several months across different continents.
- When visiting many countries with a flexible itinerary.
- To cover expensive medical evacuation or repatriation back to India.
- If visiting countries with high healthcare costs like the USA.
- For visa applications requiring continuous long-term coverage.
- When planning to do adventure sports like trekking or diving.
- If taking a gap year, career break, or a long sabbatical.
- To protect your belongings during a long, multi-destination journey.
The cost of Round-the-world travel insurance
On average, round-the-world travel insurance costs between 3 percent and 6 percent of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (INR) | Indicative price per person (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months round-the-world trip in Asia and Europe | 3,00,000 | 9,000 to 18,000 |
| 9 months backpacking across Europe, USA and Australia | 5,00,000 | 15,000 to 30,000 |
| 12 months global digital nomad itinerary | 8,00,000 | 25,000 to 48,000 |
| 4 months volunteering and travel in Latin America and Africa | 2,00,000 | 6,000 to 12,000 |
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.
- trip duration: the longer the trip, the higher the insurance price.
- destinations visited: traveling to countries with high medical costs or remote regions will increase the premium.
- traveller’s age: older travellers often pay higher rates than younger travellers.
- level of coverage: comprehensive or premium plans including adventure sports, evacuation, and low deductibles cost more.
- medical history: pre-existing medical conditions, if covered, may raise the total price.
- selected options: add-ons such as gadget or valuable item protection, trip cancellation, or business equipment cover can impact the cost.
What does Round-the-world travel insurance cover?
Round-the-world travel insurance is specially designed for long journeys covering multiple countries over several months. It provides continuous coverage for travellers from India while they are abroad, regardless of the number of destinations.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 📅 Trip cancellation | Reimbursement of prepaid costs if you cancel before departure. | We recommend a minimum cover of ₹1 lakh with a deductible not exceeding ₹1,000. Cancellation for visa denial or change of mind is usually excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Covers additional expenses if you miss your first mode of travel. | At least ₹20,000 cover is advised, with no deductible. Lateness or lack of documents are common exclusions. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Covers loss, theft, or damage to baggage during the journey. | Choose at least ₹1 lakh limit and a maximum ₹1,000 deductible. Unattended bags and valuables exceeding limits are often not covered. |
| 📦 Baggage delay | Compensation for essential items if your bag is delayed overseas. | Opt for ₹10,000 cover after 24 hours’ delay. Deductibles are rare. Shorter delays and delayed return bags are generally excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays for emergency medical treatment abroad. | Minimum ₹50 lakh recommended and deductible no more than ₹1,000. Pre-existing conditions and routine care are normally not included. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation or evacuation | Key guarantee. Emergency transport to India if required medically. | Should be unlimited or at least ₹1 crore with no deductible. Traveller refusal or non-emergency return is often excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Urgent dental treatment required during the trip. | At least ₹20,000 cover. Avoid deductibles over ₹1,000. Cosmetic or planned treatments are not included. |
| 👩⚖️ Personal liability abroad | Covers costs if you accidentally harm others or property overseas. | Go for at least ₹25 lakh cover. Deductible should not exceed ₹2,000. Damages to family or rental property are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance and bail | Pays legal fees or bail in a covered incident while abroad. | Look for at least ₹2 lakh for legal costs and ₹5 lakh for bail. Criminal acts and actions under the influence are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused trip costs if you need to cut your journey short. | Minimum ₹50,000 cover advised with a low deductible. Voluntary or minor interruptions are not covered. |
Cancellation for visa denial or change of mind is usually excluded.
Lateness or lack of documents are common exclusions.
Unattended bags and valuables exceeding limits are often not covered.
Shorter delays and delayed return bags are generally excluded.
Pre-existing conditions and routine care are normally not included.
Traveller refusal or non-emergency return is often excluded.
Cosmetic or planned treatments are not included.
Damages to family or rental property are excluded.
Criminal acts and actions under the influence are excluded.
Voluntary or minor interruptions are not covered.
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 Round-the-world travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
To be valid, Round-the-world travel insurance in India is subject to specific conditions that travellers must respect.
- Residency requirement: you must be a resident of India at the time of purchasing the policy.
- Advance purchase: you need to buy the Round-the-world policy before departure from India, not after leaving the country.
- Trip duration compliance: your journey must fit within the maximum duration specified in the contract, such as 12 months for most policies.
- Geographic coverage: all countries or regions you visit must be covered and not on the insurer's exclusion list due to war or sanctions.
- Health status declaration: you are usually required to declare all pre-existing medical conditions before departure for full coverage.
- Activity disclosure: any planned high-risk adventure or sports activities must be declared and specifically included in the coverage.
- Incident notification: you must inform the insurer as soon as possible in case of an emergency, illness, or theft during your trip.
- Visa and legal compliance: you need to comply with entry and visa requirements for every destination, as some claims may be denied if you travel illegally.
Watch out!
A common misunderstanding for Indian travellers is that round-the-world policies allow visits back home. Be warned: most policies terminate coverage permanently once you return to India, even for a short trip. Always check this clause, or you could be left uninsured for the rest of your journey.
Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
While travelling for an extended period, even minor health issues can quickly become expensive in foreign countries. 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 maximum policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Often covered 100% if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100%, subject to plan limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually up to 100%, check deductible terms |
| Consultation and treatment for an intestinal infection |
| Often 100%, sometimes after deductible |
- Europe: ₹15,000 to ₹30,000
- North America: ₹35,000 to ₹60,000
- Asia: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000
- Europe: ₹15,00,000 to ₹20,00,000
- North America: ₹18,00,000 to ₹25,00,000
- Asia: ₹8,00,000 to ₹15,00,000
- Europe: ₹8,50,000 to ₹12,00,000
- North America: ₹15,00,000 to ₹25,00,000
- Asia: ₹4,00,000 to ₹7,00,000
- Europe: ₹12,000 to ₹20,000
- North America: ₹28,000 to ₹45,000
- Asia: ₹6,000 to ₹12,000
- Europe: ₹18,000 to ₹30,000
- North America: ₹45,000 to ₹70,000
- Asia: ₹10,000 to ₹20,000
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.
Trip cancellation, lost luggage, personal liability, repatriation, teleconsultation, and emergency assistance services are also usually included, providing broader protection on long trips.
Good to know
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Choosing the right Round-the-world travel insurance
Coverage features such as reimbursement ceilings, deductibles and medical exclusions can vary significantly between Round-the-world travel insurance plans. It is important to know which criteria are relevant before comparing policies, especially due to the diversity of destinations and risks involved.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low coverage may not be enough for major medical expenses abroad | Always select a minimum medical limit of ₹1 crore per person for full protection. |
| 📉 Deductible | Higher deductibles mean more out-of-pocket costs for you | Prefer plans with low deductibles, ideally ₹0 to ₹2,500, especially for emergency medical. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Some benefits apply only if the policy is bought at a certain time | Always review waiting periods and exclusions to avoid surprises during your trip. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo, couple, family or senior needs mean different coverage types | Families and digital nomads should seek multi-person or professional equipment coverage. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Policies may restrict coverage to 90, 180 or 365 days | For long trips, choose extendable or annual Round-the-world plans for continued protection. |
| 🌏 Geographic area | Coverage, price and legal minimums change by destination | Ensure all countries you visit are declared and covered under your insurance, especially Schengen. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Bank cards and health plans may offer basic travel benefits | Check your bank card and medical plan for existing benefits before opting for additional insurance. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure or extreme sports may not be included by default | If you plan diving, trekking, or similar activities, add adventure sports coverage to avoid exclusions. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Online purchase enables instant coverage and faster claim handling | Choose insurers with digital claims and online support for flexibility while travelling long-term. |
Is Round-the-world travel covered by your current insurance policies?
It is understandable to wonder if the insurance you already have, like credit card insurance or public health protection, could serve as Round-the-world travel insurance, but unfortunately, this is almost never enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Round-the-world travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Ayushman Bharat) | Never | Only covers medical treatment within India, up to ₹5 lakh yearly. No international coverage. Does not include medical expenses, repatriation, baggage loss, trip cancellation or accident abroad. | Travel insurance covers medical costs up to ₹2 crore, with repatriation and global hospital access, which Ayushman Bharat does not provide. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, HDFC ERGO) | Never | May include emergency medical care abroad, up to ₹1 lakh-₹2 lakh. No repatriation or non-medical claims. No coverage for trip cancellation, lost baggage, personal liability, or accidents outside India. | Travel insurance reimburses up to ₹2 crore, includes trip cancellation and lost baggage, much broader than private health covers in India. |
| Classic credit card (SBI Platinum, ICICI Coral) | Almost Never | Basic travel accident, medical cover up to ₹2 lakh-₹5 lakh, only if ticket bought with card. No evacuation, limited trip duration, no adventure sports, cancellation or personal liability coverage. | Travel insurance provides ₹10 lakh-₹2 crore cover, plus evacuation, sports, trip cancellation and full duration, not matched by card insurances. |
| Premium credit card (HDFC Diners Black, Axis Reserve) | Limited coverage | Travel accident, medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh-₹10 lakh per trip, baggage loss up to ₹50,000. No pre-existing condition cover, trip flexibility, adventure sports or mental health support for long-term travel. | Travel insurance covers evacuation, pre-existing conditions, sports and mental health, and up to ₹2 crore, always higher than credit card limits. |
Does not include medical expenses, repatriation, baggage loss, trip cancellation or accident abroad.
No coverage for trip cancellation, lost baggage, personal liability, or accidents outside India.
No evacuation, limited trip duration, no adventure sports, cancellation or personal liability coverage.
No pre-existing condition cover, trip flexibility, adventure sports or mental health support for long-term travel.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance policies often exclude key situations like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. For complete peace of mind, it is always safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance plan tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is not universally mandatory, but it is required for entry into certain countries, such as those in the Schengen area, Russia, and some South American nations, which often request proof of specific medical coverage for visa approval. Even when not required by law, it is strongly recommended: for example, if you have a medical emergency in the USA or Australia, hospital bills can run into several lakhs of rupees. Insurance can be crucial to avoid heavy financial burdens during emergencies far from home.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
It is best to purchase your Round-the-world travel insurance as soon as you book your tickets or pay any trip deposits. This ensures you are protected from the start against cancellation, medical emergencies, and other risks that might arise before your departure. Early purchase also covers any unexpected situations or changes that could affect your travel plans, maximizing both your coverage and your peace of mind.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
To get Round-the-world travel insurance, first compare plans and prices—consider using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for a broad overview. Carefully check plan guarantees and exclusions, paying extra attention to coverage for all your intended destinations and planned activities. Once you choose, complete the purchase easily online and receive your insurance certificate instantly, ready for visa applications or emergencies during your journey.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy Round-the-world travel insurance even after booking your tickets or starting your travel preparations. However, purchasing as early as possible is advisable to ensure cancellation coverage and continuous protection from the outset. Late purchase could leave you exposed if emergencies or unexpected events occur before your policy’s start date.
How do I make a claim under my Round-the-world travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, notify your insurer immediately using their helpline or claims portal. Most insurers require you to submit supporting documents such as medical reports, bills, police reports (if theft or loss), and your policy certificate. Keep digital copies of all receipts and follow the claim submission instructions carefully. Claims are usually processed digitally, and many insurers offer mobile apps for faster communication and tracking.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover sports and adventure activities?
Most Round-the-world insurance policies offer optional or built-in coverage for adventure activities like trekking, diving, or bungee jumping. However, extreme or professional sports may be excluded or require additional riders. Always check your policy’s terms and specify any planned high-risk activities during purchase to ensure you have adequate protection, especially if your travels involve adventurous destinations.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by Round-the-world travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies between insurers and policies. Many standard policies exclude treatment related to existing illnesses, but some providers offer add-ons or waivers for declared conditions at extra cost. It is important to declare all relevant health history truthfully during the application to avoid claim denial and to secure the best possible coverage abroad.
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is not universally mandatory, but it is required for entry into certain countries, such as those in the Schengen area, Russia, and some South American nations, which often request proof of specific medical coverage for visa approval. Even when not required by law, it is strongly recommended: for example, if you have a medical emergency in the USA or Australia, hospital bills can run into several lakhs of rupees. Insurance can be crucial to avoid heavy financial burdens during emergencies far from home.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
It is best to purchase your Round-the-world travel insurance as soon as you book your tickets or pay any trip deposits. This ensures you are protected from the start against cancellation, medical emergencies, and other risks that might arise before your departure. Early purchase also covers any unexpected situations or changes that could affect your travel plans, maximizing both your coverage and your peace of mind.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
To get Round-the-world travel insurance, first compare plans and prices—consider using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for a broad overview. Carefully check plan guarantees and exclusions, paying extra attention to coverage for all your intended destinations and planned activities. Once you choose, complete the purchase easily online and receive your insurance certificate instantly, ready for visa applications or emergencies during your journey.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy Round-the-world travel insurance even after booking your tickets or starting your travel preparations. However, purchasing as early as possible is advisable to ensure cancellation coverage and continuous protection from the outset. Late purchase could leave you exposed if emergencies or unexpected events occur before your policy’s start date.
How do I make a claim under my Round-the-world travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, notify your insurer immediately using their helpline or claims portal. Most insurers require you to submit supporting documents such as medical reports, bills, police reports (if theft or loss), and your policy certificate. Keep digital copies of all receipts and follow the claim submission instructions carefully. Claims are usually processed digitally, and many insurers offer mobile apps for faster communication and tracking.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover sports and adventure activities?
Most Round-the-world insurance policies offer optional or built-in coverage for adventure activities like trekking, diving, or bungee jumping. However, extreme or professional sports may be excluded or require additional riders. Always check your policy’s terms and specify any planned high-risk activities during purchase to ensure you have adequate protection, especially if your travels involve adventurous destinations.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by Round-the-world travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies between insurers and policies. Many standard policies exclude treatment related to existing illnesses, but some providers offer add-ons or waivers for declared conditions at extra cost. It is important to declare all relevant health history truthfully during the application to avoid claim denial and to secure the best possible coverage abroad.
