- The best single trip travel insurance plans
- What exactly is single trip travel insurance?
- Price of single trip travel insurance
- What does single trip travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of single trip travel insurance
- Why take out single trip travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right single trip Travel Insurance
- Does my current insurance cover single trip travel insurance?
- FAQ
single trip travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Single trip insurance covers one specific journey, protecting you from departure until your return to India.
2. Price: A one-week policy for Europe typically costs between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000, depending on the coverage.
3. Coverage: It usually covers medical emergencies and trip cancellation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Credit cards and health policies like Star Health or Max Bupa offer very limited overseas medical coverage.
5. Tips: Check if the policy meets Schengen visa requirements and has a high claim settlement ratio for cashless service.
6. Other useful info: Most policies now include COVID-19 coverage for quarantine and cancellation, as mandated by IRDAI.
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 single trip travel insurance.
The best single trip travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best single trip travel insurance plans available for residents of India in 2025. These policies stand out for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified terms, offering strong protection for safe travel.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • Adaptable to any destination. • Instant digital policy issuance. • Generous baggage coverage. • Quick cashless settlement network. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₹1,00,00,000 | ₹0 | • 24/7 multilingual support. • Medical teleconsultation included. • Legal help in emergencies. • No extra premium for increased age. |
| Tourist Card | ₹50,00,000 | ₹2,500 | • Simple online refund. • Includes flexible trip cancellation. • Excellent network of hospitals. • Useful for frequent travelers. |
| World Travel | ₹75,00,000 | ₹1,500 | • Covers quarantine hotel costs. • 24/7 psychological support. • Rapid passport loss assistance. • Covers political evacuation. |
| Globe Partner | ₹30,00,000 | ₹0 | • Affordable for young travelers. • 100% online application. • Fast email claim progress. |
| Globe Traveller | ₹50,00,000 | ₹0 | • Up to 12 months cover per trip. • No price hike after age 60. • Multilingual claim service. |
• Instant digital policy issuance.
• Generous baggage coverage.
• Quick cashless settlement network.
• Medical teleconsultation included.
• Legal help in emergencies.
• No extra premium for increased age.
• Includes flexible trip cancellation.
• Excellent network of hospitals.
• Useful for frequent travelers.
• 24/7 psychological support.
• Rapid passport loss assistance.
• Covers political evacuation.
• 100% online application.
• Fast email claim progress.
• No price hike after age 60.
• Multilingual claim service.
The best single trip 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 exactly is single trip travel insurance?
Single trip travel insurance is a policy designed to provide coverage for one specific journey from India abroad, from the date of departure until return.
This insurance protects against travel-related risks such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and personal liability during a particular trip.
A single trip policy is distinct from annual multi-trip insurance: it only covers the planned trip, for fixed dates and destination.
It is sometimes called "one-time travel insurance" or "single journey cover" in India.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out single trip travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in India:
- For infrequent international travel instead of an annual plan.
- When applying for visas like the Schengen visa.
- If visiting countries with high medical costs like the USA.
- To protect expensive, non-refundable bookings for flights and hotels.
- For trips involving adventure sports like trekking or skiing.
- When traveling with senior citizens or young children.
- For a single long vacation or an extended stay abroad.
Price of single trip travel insurance
On average, single trip travel insurance costs between 2% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (INR) | Indicative price per person (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 7 days holiday in Thailand | 80,000 | 800 to 1,500 |
| 2 weeks Europe (Schengen zone) sightseeing | 2,50,000 | 2,500 to 4,000 |
| 1 month USA family visit | 4,00,000 | 4,500 to 8,000 |
| 3 weeks adventure tour in Australia | 2,00,000 | 3,500 to 6,500 |
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 single trip travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer stays lead to higher premiums.
- destination: high-cost countries, such as the USA or Europe, usually require higher coverage and result in higher costs.
- traveller’s age: older travellers, especially above 65 years, are charged more.
- level of coverage: comprehensive plans with higher limits and wider benefits increase the premium.
- selected add-ons: cover for hazardous sports, valuable belongings, or cancellation will add to the total price.
What does single trip travel insurance cover?
Single trip travel insurance is tailored to cover one specified journey, from departure until return to India.
This policy is best for people who travel occasionally and want tailored protection for each trip.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip cancellation | Refund for prepaid expenses if you must cancel before you leave. | Choose a minimum cover of ₹1L, with a deductible no more than ₹1k. Cancellations for visa refusal, pre-existing illness or personal choice are usually excluded. |
| 🏞️ Trip interruption | Refund for unused trip costs if your journey is cut short. | Minimum ₹1L cover is recommended and keep the deductible below ₹1k. Leaving for minor reasons or voluntary returns are typically excluded. |
| ✈️ Missed departure | Covers extra transport or hotel if you miss your main departure. | Opt for at least ₹20k with no deductible. Not covered if late without cause or if delay confirmation is missing. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays emergency medical or hospital bills abroad. | Look for at least ₹50L cover and deductible below ₹5k. Routine, chronic illness, and elective treatment are normally excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation & repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays to bring you back to India for medical reasons. | Coverage should be unlimited or ≥₹50L and deductible under ₹5k. Non-essential or comfort repatriation, refusal of evacuation are common exclusions. |
| 👝 Baggage loss, theft or damage | Covers loss or damage to checked baggage and personal items. | Ensure at least ₹50k cover and deductible below ₹1k. Electronics and valuables, unattended bags, and gradual damage are almost always excluded. |
| 🕒 Baggage delay | Reimburses essential purchases if bags are delayed over 6 hours. | Choose coverage of at least ₹10k with no deductible. Short delays or lack of airline proof are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Provides urgent dental treatment for injury or sudden pain. | At least ₹15k is advised, with deductible ≤₹1k. Routine, preventive or cosmetic care is usually excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees or bail if you face legal issues while abroad. | Minimum ₹3L legal cover and ₹5L for bail bond, deductible ≤₹2k. Incidents involving drugs, alcohol or criminal behaviour are excluded. |
| 👤 Personal accident | Pays if injury results in disability or death during the trip. | Cover of at least ₹10L is advised and deductibles shouldn’t apply. High-risk sports, self-harm and alcohol incidents are not included. |
Cancellations for visa refusal, pre-existing illness or personal choice are usually excluded.
Leaving for minor reasons or voluntary returns are typically excluded.
Not covered if late without cause or if delay confirmation is missing.
Routine, chronic illness, and elective treatment are normally excluded.
Non-essential or comfort repatriation, refusal of evacuation are common exclusions.
Electronics and valuables, unattended bags, and gradual damage are almost always excluded.
Short delays or lack of airline proof are excluded.
Routine, preventive or cosmetic care is usually excluded.
Incidents involving drugs, alcohol or criminal behaviour are excluded.
High-risk sports, self-harm and alcohol incidents are not included.
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 single trip travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of single trip travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance in India is valid only if certain key conditions are met.
- Purchase before departure: you must buy the policy before leaving India, not after your journey has started.
- Coverage dates: the insurance applies only during the specific dates and trip listed in the policy.
- Residency requirement: you must be an Indian resident at the time of purchase.
- Trip duration limit: you cannot exceed the maximum trip duration specified in your contract, for example 30 or 45 days.
- Destination compliance: coverage is not valid for travel to countries under official Indian government travel advisories or sanctions at the time of departure.
- Incident notification: you must promptly notify the insurer in case of medical emergencies or other covered incidents for your claim to be processed.
- Supporting documents: you need to provide official reports or medical certificates for claims like cancellation, illness, or theft.
- Pre-existing conditions: most policies do not cover medical expenses related to pre-existing illnesses, unless specifically included.
Watch out!
A common mistake is buying single trip insurance just before departure. This voids crucial trip cancellation coverage for events occurring before you travel. To be fully protected against unforeseen cancellations, purchase your policy immediately after booking your flights and hotels. Don't wait until the last minute.
Why take out single trip travel insurance?
While travelling abroad, unexpected health incidents can result in major costs for Indian travelers. Even minor treatment abroad is much more expensive than in India, and the traveler is responsible for all costs if uninsured.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to ₹50,00,000, depending on plan limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Typically 100% if deemed medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to ₹1,00,00,000, depending on policy |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Often covered up to 100% after deductible |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Up to the policy maximum, often 100% coverage |
- Europe: ₹15,000 to ₹20,000
- North America: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000
- Asia: ₹8,000 to ₹15,000
- Europe: ₹8,00,000 to ₹12,00,000
- North America: ₹12,00,000 to ₹18,00,000
- Asia: ₹5,00,000 to ₹9,00,000
- Europe: ₹4,50,000 to ₹7,00,000
- North America: ₹8,00,000 to ₹14,00,000
- Asia: ₹2,50,000 to ₹6,00,000
- Europe: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000
- North America: ₹20,000 to ₹30,000
- Asia: ₹6,000 to ₹13,000
- Europe: ₹18,000 to ₹22,000
- North America: ₹30,000 to ₹40,000
- Asia: ₹10,000 to ₹15,000
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.
Single trip travel insurance can also include other useful guarantees such as trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability abroad, repatriation assistance, telemedicine support and emergency cash advances, providing broader protection while travelling.
Good to know
Your domestic health plan won't cover you abroad, where a simple emergency can cost lakhs. Protect your savings from huge overseas medical bills and travel disruptions. A single trip plan, like those from Chapka, provides comprehensive coverage for just one journey, ensuring complete peace of mind.
How to Choose the Right single trip Travel Insurance
Not all single trip travel insurance policies offer the same level of protection: reimbursement limits, exclusions, and procedures can vary across insurers.
It is important to understand and compare the criteria that affect how well a policy meets your needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💸 Reimbursement limits | Determines the maximum amount paid for claims. | Choose at least ₹30,00,000 for medical expenses to meet embassy and Schengen visa requirements. |
| 🧾 Deductible | This is the amount you pay per claim before insurance applies. | Prefer plans where the deductible for medical and accident cover is low or zero. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Coverage ends when your journey is over or duration limit is reached. | Always match the policy period with your travel dates, including any stopovers or extensions. |
| 🌏 Geographic area | Some plans may exclude high-risk or expensive countries. | Ensure your insurance covers the full itinerary including layovers, not just your main destination. |
| 🏥 Policy conditions | Insurers impose waiting periods, declarations, or exclusions. | Carefully review exclusions for age, professional trips, or hazardous activities before purchase. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Age affects eligibility and the level of benefits available. | Check age limits and surcharges, especially if you or a companion is over 60. |
| 🏦 Existing coverage | Credit cards or health insurance may offer partial protection. | Review your employer, bank, or existing insurance coverage before selecting additional protection. |
| ⛷️ Planned activities | Adventure or hazardous activities may be excluded by standard policies. | If you plan trekking, skiing, scuba, or cycling, opt for specific add-on coverage. |
| 📱 Ability to buy online | Quick and efficient purchase saves time and often provides instant proof. | Use reputable Indian comparison tools to check policy features and price before subscribing. |
Does my current insurance cover single trip travel insurance?
It is natural to wonder if your existing insurances, like credit card coverage or your public health system, could offer complete single trip travel insurance.
Unfortunately, these solutions often fall short in terms of guarantees and limits.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Single trip travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (ESIC, CGHS) | Never | Covers healthcare only in India. No overseas medical expenses or repatriation. No cover for trip cancellation, baggage loss, liability, or adventure sports abroad. | Travel insurance reimburses up to ₹1,00,00,000 abroad, covering trip delays, baggage loss, and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Star Health, Max Bupa) | Almost Never | Limited emergency medical coverage overseas, low limits: ₹2,00,000-₹10,00,000. Misses cancellation, baggage, liability, often high out-of-pocket expenses abroad. | Travel insurance covers all medical, trip, and liability risks up to ₹1,00,00,000 abroad. |
| Classic credit card (SBI Platinum, ICICI Coral) | Almost Never | May offer limited medical (₹2,00,000-₹5,00,000) and baggage cover for trips booked with card. No trip cancellation, adventure activities, evacuation, or high liabilities protection included. | Travel insurance can reach ₹1,00,00,000 for health, ₹1,00,000 for baggage, including cancellations. |
| Premium credit card (HDFC Regalia, Axis Magnus) | Limited Coverage | Enhanced limits: medical (₹5,00,000-₹6,00,000), baggage (₹50,000-₹75,000), delays. Does not include trip cancellation, high-cost evacuation, or full liability coverage. | Travel insurance goes up to ₹1,00,00,000, adding evacuation, cancellation, and personal liability protection. |
No cover for trip cancellation, baggage loss, liability, or adventure sports abroad.
Misses cancellation, baggage, liability, often high out-of-pocket expenses abroad.
No trip cancellation, adventure activities, evacuation, or high liabilities protection included.
Does not include trip cancellation, high-cost evacuation, or full liability coverage.
Expert advice
Your bank card or Indian health insurance often won't cover trip interruptions due to a relative’s illness. Read the policy terms carefully to avoid surprises abroad. For complete peace of mind, it is always safer to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Travel insurance for a single trip is not universally mandatory, but some countries do require proof of coverage, especially for visa issuance, such as Schengen countries. For most trips, insurance is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended since medical emergencies abroad can result in expenses as high as ₹10,00,000 or more. Even for common vacations, a sudden illness or flight cancellation can make insurance crucial for both financial security and peace of mind.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
The best time to buy single trip travel insurance is as soon as you finalize your booking and make the first payment for your trip. This ensures that trip cancellation or interruption coverage becomes effective immediately. Purchasing early is financially beneficial because pre-departure incidents, such as illness, are then covered from the policy's start date.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to review the best options in India.2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Read the policy carefully to ensure coverage and exclusions fit your single trip needs.3/ Purchase online: Complete your purchase online through a secure payment gateway.4/ Receive the certificate: Your policy and certificate will be sent instantly by email and can be downloaded for your visa application or travel records.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking my tickets?
Yes, you can buy single trip travel insurance at any time before your departure. However, some benefits, like trip cancellation coverage, are only available if you purchase insurance immediately after booking your trip. For maximum protection, it is ideal to purchase the policy as soon as possible after your travel plans are confirmed.
How do I make a claim on single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline or claims portal as soon as possible after an incident. Submit all required documents, such as medical bills, proof of travel, and the claim form. Most Indian insurers now facilitate quick digital or WhatsApp submissions for claims. Retain original proofs for reference until your claim is settled.
Does single trip travel insurance cover COVID-19 related incidents?
Most current single trip travel insurance plans now cover COVID-19 related medical expenses and quarantine costs. Many policies also provide coverage for trip cancellation if you test positive before departure. Always check the specific COVID-19 coverage and any exclusions mentioned for your chosen plan before buying.
Is there an age limit for purchasing single trip travel insurance in India?
Most Indian insurers provide single trip travel insurance for individuals up to 70 years, and some offer coverage for senior travelers up to 85 years, possibly with higher premiums or medical screening. Age restrictions, premium adjustments, and benefit limits can vary, so review policy details before purchase.
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Travel insurance for a single trip is not universally mandatory, but some countries do require proof of coverage, especially for visa issuance, such as Schengen countries. For most trips, insurance is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended since medical emergencies abroad can result in expenses as high as ₹10,00,000 or more. Even for common vacations, a sudden illness or flight cancellation can make insurance crucial for both financial security and peace of mind.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
The best time to buy single trip travel insurance is as soon as you finalize your booking and make the first payment for your trip. This ensures that trip cancellation or interruption coverage becomes effective immediately. Purchasing early is financially beneficial because pre-departure incidents, such as illness, are then covered from the policy's start date.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to review the best options in India.2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Read the policy carefully to ensure coverage and exclusions fit your single trip needs.3/ Purchase online: Complete your purchase online through a secure payment gateway.4/ Receive the certificate: Your policy and certificate will be sent instantly by email and can be downloaded for your visa application or travel records.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking my tickets?
Yes, you can buy single trip travel insurance at any time before your departure. However, some benefits, like trip cancellation coverage, are only available if you purchase insurance immediately after booking your trip. For maximum protection, it is ideal to purchase the policy as soon as possible after your travel plans are confirmed.
How do I make a claim on single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s helpline or claims portal as soon as possible after an incident. Submit all required documents, such as medical bills, proof of travel, and the claim form. Most Indian insurers now facilitate quick digital or WhatsApp submissions for claims. Retain original proofs for reference until your claim is settled.
Does single trip travel insurance cover COVID-19 related incidents?
Most current single trip travel insurance plans now cover COVID-19 related medical expenses and quarantine costs. Many policies also provide coverage for trip cancellation if you test positive before departure. Always check the specific COVID-19 coverage and any exclusions mentioned for your chosen plan before buying.
Is there an age limit for purchasing single trip travel insurance in India?
Most Indian insurers provide single trip travel insurance for individuals up to 70 years, and some offer coverage for senior travelers up to 85 years, possibly with higher premiums or medical screening. Age restrictions, premium adjustments, and benefit limits can vary, so review policy details before purchase.
