With cheap domestic flights (₹2,000-5,000) and rising travel disruptions, many Indians wonder: “Should I buy travel insurance for domestic flights?”
The short answer: Yes, if you want protection against flight delays, cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. But is it always worth the cost?
This 2025 guide will help you decide by covering:
✅ What domestic travel insurance covers (and what it doesn’t)
✅ Real cost vs. potential savings
✅ When to buy & when to skip
✅ Best domestic travel insurance plans in India
What Does Domestic Travel Insurance Cover in India?
Most policies for domestic flights include:
✔ Trip Cancellation/Delay – Reimbursement if flight is delayed 2+ hours or cancelled
✔ Lost/Delayed Baggage – Compensation (typically up to ₹25,000-50,000)
✔ Medical Emergencies – Hospitalization due to accident/sickness during trip
✔ Accidental Death & Disability – Lump sum payout (₹5-10 lakhs)
What’s NOT Covered?
❌ Pre-existing diseases (unless declared & approved)
❌ Missed flights due to personal reasons (oversleeping, traffic jams)
❌ Adventure sports injuries (paragliding, trekking)
Cost of Domestic Travel Insurance in India (2025)
| Insurance Provider | Coverage for 3-Day Trip | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| ICICI Lombard | ₹149-₹299 | Covers flight delays (₹2,500/hr after 4 hrs) |
| HDFC ERGO | ₹199-₹399 | Free COVID-19 coverage included |
| Acko | ₹99-₹249 | Instant claim via mobile app |
| Digit Insurance | ₹179-₹350 | Lost baggage cover up to ₹50,000 |
💡 Pro Tip: Some credit cards (like HDFC Regalia, Axis Magnus) offer free domestic travel insurance if you book flights using them.
When Should You Buy Domestic Travel Insurance?
✅ Worth It If:
✔ Flying during monsoon (higher cancellation risk)
✔ Carrying expensive luggage (cameras, laptops, jewelry)
✔ Have connecting flights (higher chance of delays)
✔ Senior citizens or pre-existing conditions (emergency medical cover)
❌ Can Skip If:
✔ Short, non-stop flight (e.g., Delhi-Jaipur)
✔ Traveling light (only cabin baggage)
✔ Already covered by credit card insurance
How to Claim Domestic Travel Insurance?
1️⃣ File a Complaint – Get written proof from airline (delay/cancellation notice)
2️⃣ Notify Insurer – Call customer care or use app (Acko/Digit allow instant claims)
3️⃣ Submit Documents – Boarding pass, tickets, medical bills (if applicable)
4️⃣ Approval – Most claims settled in 3-7 days
⚠️ Important: Claims are rejected if you don’t inform insurer within 24-48 hours of incident.
Best Domestic Travel Insurance Plans in India (2025)
1. Acko Domestic Travel Insurance
- Best for: Tech-savvy travelers
- Price: ₹99 for 3 days
- Claim Process: 100% app-based
2. ICICI Lombard Flight Delay Insurance
- Best for: Frequent flyers
- Coverage: ₹2,500 per hour after 4-hour delay
3. Digit Holiday Insurance
- Best for: Family trips
- Coverage: Baggage loss + medical emergencies
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
| Scenario | Worth It? |
|---|---|
| Monsoon travel | ✅ YES |
| Short business trip | ❌ NO |
| Family vacation with luggage | ✅ YES |
| Frequent flyer with credit card cover | ❌ NO |
💡 Smart Hack:
- For occasional trips, buy per-trip insurance.
- For frequent travel, opt for an annual multi-trip plan (₹1,500-3,000/year).
FAQ
Q1. Does domestic travel insurance cover flight cancellations?
✅ Yes! Most policies reimburse cancellation charges (if due to airline fault).
Q2. Is COVID-19 covered in domestic travel insurance?
🔄 Some insurers (HDFC ERGO, Acko) include it—check the policy wording.
Q3. Can I buy insurance after booking a flight?
⏳ Yes, but only before departure (not after delays start).
