Updated on 14 Dec 2025
Travelling often comes with unexpected challenges. Sometimes, you may need to cut short or delay your trip due to medical emergencies, accidents or other unforeseen events. Such situations can lead to significant monetary loss from cancellations or unused bookings. This is where trip interruption insurance proves valuable, as it provides financial relief and helps you recover expenses incurred due to travel disruptions. Many people today prefer purchasing travel insurance online for quick access to coverage and convenience.
What is trip interruption insurance?
Trip interruption insurance is a type of coverage that compensates you for non-refundable travel expenses if your journey is cut short or delayed. Unlike trip cancellation insurance, which protects you before your trip begins, this cover applies after your journey has already started.
Why do you need trip interruption insurance?
Emergencies can occur at any time. Whether it is illness or sudden travel restrictions, trip interruption insurance helps you recover part of the money lost due to cancelled bookings, unused reservations or changes to your travel plans. This eases the financial burden of such travel disruptions.
Benefits of buying trip interruption insurance
Here are a few potential advantages:
- Reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable expenses: These include hotel bookings, tours and flights
- Assistance in arranging new travel plans: In case you need to return home earlier than expected.
- Financial support: Helps reduce the burden of unexpected expenses while travelling.
What does trip interruption insurance cover?
Coverage typically includes situations such as:
- Medical emergencies during your trip
- Family emergencies requiring you to return home
- Natural disasters or severe weather affecting travel
- Unexpected travel restrictions or cancellations
Factors to consider before buying trip interruption insurance
When purchasing trip interruption insurance, it is important to consider:
- Policy wording: Always check what situations are covered.
- Duration of travel: Choose between a multi-trip or a single-trip insurance policy depending on your needs.
- Buying process: Many insurers now allow you to buy travel insurance online for ease and quick issuance. You may also get discounts on the cost.
Conclusion
Trip interruption insurance can provide financial support if unexpected events cut short your journey. It helps recover some of your prepaid expenses and may cover additional costs incurred due to emergencies. While you focus on making memories during your travel, this cover can ease some of the financial stress of last-minute changes.
Explore travel insurance online to find the best one for your needs. If you need help with buying the right policy, fill out the form on this page. We will provide personalised travel insurance advice and solutions based on your needs and budget.
FAQ
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Is trip interruption insurance the same as trip cancellation insurance?
No, they are different. Trip cancellation insurance covers you before your journey starts, while trip interruption insurance covers you if your trip is cut short after it begins.
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Does trip interruption insurance cover all medical emergencies?
The coverage depends on the insurer and the policy terms. You should always check the policy document for a detailed list of inclusions.
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Can I buy trip interruption insurance separately?
In many cases, trip interruption coverage is included as part of a travel insurance plan. However, availability may differ depending on the insurer.
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Will I be reimbursed for all unused bookings?
Reimbursement is usually for prepaid and non-refundable expenses. The exact coverage will vary between insurers, so it is advisable to check your policy wording.
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When should I buy trip interruption insurance?
Ideally, you should purchase trip interruption insurance at the time of booking your travel ticket to ensure maximum coverage.
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.