Updated on - 24 Oct 2025
Unexpected events like illness, accidents or family emergencies can force us to cancel travel plans, often at the last minute. That’s where trip cancellation insurance comes in handy. It helps you recover the non-refundable costs of your bookings, saving you from a financial setback. But while many travellers purchase this coverage, few know how to actually make a claim when the need arises.
In this blog, we break down what trip cancellation insurance is and guide you through the simple steps to claim it, so you're never caught off guard.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
Trip cancellation insurance is a type of cover included in most travel insurance plans. It helps you get a refund if you need to cancel your trip due to valid reasons. These reasons can include illness or injury before travel, death in the family, natural disasters, passport theft, visa rejection and flight cancellations due to bad weather or strikes
Steps to claim travel insurance for trip cancellation
If you need to cancel your trip and want to claim the insurance, here are the steps you should follow:
- Inform the insurance company immediately
As soon as you know you have to cancel your trip, contact the insurance company. Most companies have 24*7 helpline or email address. Informing early shows honesty and helps in faster processing.
Cancel your flight, hotel and other bookings. Collect all cancellation receipts and emails. These are important for your claim.
Download the international travel insurance claim form from the insurer’s website or get it through email. Fill in all the details clearly: your name, policy number, travel dates, reason for cancellation, etc.
- Attach all necessary documents
You must submit proof to support your claim. Without documents, your claim might get rejected.
Send the completed form and documents through email or upload them on the insurer’s website or app, depending on their process. Some companies may also accept physical copies.
After submitting, the insurance team will check everything. They might ask for extra documents if needed. If the claim is valid, the money will be refunded to your bank account.
Documents required to claim trip cancellation insurance
You need to provide the right documents to make a successful claim. These include a copy of your travel insurance policy, a cancellation letter or email, proof of booking and cancellation for flights, hotels and other services and if applicable, a medical certificate along with hospital bills or a doctor’s report. A passport copy and any additional documents requested by the insurer may also be required.
Make sure all documents are clear and easy to read. It is better to keep both soft and hard copies.
Conclusion
Cancelling a trip can be stressful, but having travel insurance can ease the financial burden. The key is to act fast, keep your documents ready and follow the correct steps. Always read your policy carefully before travelling, so you know what is covered. If you understand the process, claiming trip cancellation insurance becomes much easier and smoother.
If you’re unsure about choosing the right travel insurance or need help with claims, we’re here to guide you. Fill out the form on this page to get simple and helpful travel insurance advice that fits your needs.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.