Summer Trips to Europe, US on the Rise: Why Travel Insurance is a Must

With the summer season in full swing, Indian travellers are flocking to international destinations, especially Europe and the US, for vacations, reunions, and events. Eased visa regulations, improved air connectivity, and a growing desire for global exploration drive this surge in trips to Europe and the US. But as the excitement builds, it’s equally important to stay protected from potential risks. 

From flight cancellations to medical emergencies and lost luggage, many things can go wrong abroad. That’s where travel insurance can be of assistance. They offer not only peace of mind but real financial support. Read this blog to understand why having a travel insurance policy is a must. 

Rising Summer Travel Trends From India

More travellers are choosing Europe and the US this summer for several reasons. They are as follows: 

1. Pleasant Climate and Outdoor Activities

Europe and the US offer ideal summer temperatures, making outdoor activities, such as sightseeing, festivals, and nature adventures, more enjoyable. From the Swiss Alps to Yellowstone Park, families and solo travellers alike are drawn to the open-air experiences that aren’t possible in hotter Asian or Middle Eastern climates during this season.

2. Stronger Air Connectivity and Easier Visas

New direct flights and relaxed visa appointment backlogs have made trips to Europe and the USA easier. With more budget and full-service airlines flying to key US and European cities, it’s now simpler for tourists to plan affordable, well-connected multi-city or multi-country summer itineraries.

3. Diverse Attractions for all age Groups

The US and Europe offer something for everyone, including theme parks, historic landmarks, shopping districts, and natural wonders. Families prefer destinations like Paris or Orlando, while young travellers opt for Italy’s coasts or New York’s buzz. This mix of experiences makes these regions popular across generations and interests.

4. Rise of Social Media-Fuelled Bucket Lists

Instagram, YouTube, and travel influencers continue to shape global travel trends. Dreamy European towns and iconic American sights frequently appear in travel reels, inspiring a sense of FOMO-led travel. Social media exposure has made destinations like Santorini and Route 66 must-visit, further boosting their popularity this summer.

Read also - Hidden Gems in Europe: Underrated Destinations You Must Visit

Why Travel Insurance is More Important in Peak Season?

Summer’s travel rush increases the risk of unexpected problems, making insurance essential for peace of mind and financial safety. They are as follows: 

1. Flight Delays and Missed Connections are More Common

Peak summer means overcrowded airports, longer security lines, and overbooked flights. These factors increase the chances of delays and missed connections. Travel insurance can reimburse you for additional hotel stays, meals, or rebooking costs incurred due to such disruptions. This saves both money and stress during your trips to Europe and the USA.

2. Medical Emergencies Can Happen Anytime

Even leisure trips come with health risks, including heatstroke, food poisoning, or accidents while hiking or swimming. Travel insurance policy ensures access to quality healthcare without high out-of-pocket expenses. Emergency medical coverage becomes especially vital in destinations like the US or Europe, where treatment costs are extremely high.

3. Higher Risk of Lost or Delayed Luggage

With an increase in air travel, baggage handling systems face greater pressure. Misplaced or delayed luggage is a common issue during summer travel. Insurance helps you recover the cost of essentials, such as clothing or toiletries, while your bags are being traced, allowing you to continue your holiday with minimal disruption.

What Does a Good Travel Insurance Plan Cover?

A comprehensive travel insurance policy protects you from financial losses during your trip. It can help you in the following ways: 

1. Emergency Medical Treatment and Hospitalisation Abroad

A medical emergency abroad can result in substantial medical bills. A good plan covers doctor visits, hospitalisation, surgery, and prescribed medicines. It also includes 24/7 emergency assistance, so you're not left to manage foreign healthcare systems on your own. Some insurers also offer cashless treatment in partner hospitals for added convenience.

2. Trip Cancellations and Curtailments

Unforeseen events, such as a medical issue, family emergency, or natural disaster, can force you to cancel or shorten your trip. A travel insurance policy reimburses you for non-refundable bookings, such as flights and hotels, helping you recover lost money and continue your journey if possible, or return home safely.

3. Baggage Loss or Delay

Lost or delayed luggage is a common travel hassle. A good insurance plan offers compensation for essentials like clothing, toiletries, and medications if your baggage is missing for a specified period. If permanently lost, it reimburses you for the actual value of your belongings up to the policy limit.

4. Personal Liability and Accidental Damage

If you accidentally damage someone’s property or cause injury, personal liability coverage can protect you from legal and compensation costs. This is especially useful in unfamiliar countries where legal rules may be strict. It can also include legal aid if you're involved in a civil dispute abroad.

5. Optional COVID-19 and Adventure Activity Coverage

For added protection, many plans offer optional COVID-19 benefits, like quarantine costs, trip rescheduling, or treatment. If you're into activities like skiing or scuba diving, you can opt for adventure sports coverage. These add-ons ensure you're covered even during higher-risk experiences or health-related disruptions.

Tips for Buying the Right Travel Insurance for Europe or the US

Choosing the right travel insurance requires more than just price comparison. It’s about finding the best coverage for your destination and risks. Here are some of the things to consider when buying the right travel insurance policy:  

1. Choose Insurers Recognised by Embassies and Global Assistance Networks

Opt for providers approved by Schengen embassies or US authorities. These insurers often partner with global emergency networks, ensuring quicker and more reliable assistance abroad. Recognition also ensures your policy meets strict visa or country entry requirements.

2. Ensure 24x7 Support, Easy Claims, and High Claim Settlement History

Look for insurers offering round-the-clock customer service and multilingual assistance. A transparent and digital-first claim process can save time during emergencies. High claim settlement ratios reflect the insurer's reliability and customer satisfaction, which are essential when you're in an unfamiliar place.

3. Compare Plans for Destination-Specific Coverage 

Not all travel insurance is equal. Ensure your plan meets the Schengen minimum of €30,000 in medical coverage and includes repatriation. For US travel, opt for higher medical limits due to steep healthcare costs. Always check region-specific requirements and optional add-ons, such as adventure sports or COVID-19 coverage.

Conclusion

As international travel rebounds, travellers must plan beyond itineraries and accommodation. A travel insurance policy is hence a crucial layer of safety that protects you from medical bills, cancelled flights, lost passports, and more. Especially when taking trips to Europe and the USA, where costs and disruptions can be overwhelming, insurance acts as your safety net. 

Make your dream vacation worry-free. Get Niva Bupa health insurance today. We offer a customised plan and provide round-the-clock assistance, so you can have peace of mind and access the required aid with just one click.

FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I really need travel insurance when visiting Europe or the US?

Yes. While it’s not legally required, having travel insurance for a trip to Europe or the US is strongly recommended. Medical care can be expensive, especially in the United States, and a travel policy insurance plan can protect you from unexpected costs such as medical treatment, lost luggage, or travel delays. For European trips, a GHIC/ EHIC card offers limited medical access, but it's not a substitute for trip holiday insurance.

2. What type of travel insurance is recommended for trips to the US?

For the US, choose a trip insurance travel policy that includes very high medical cover (ideally unlimited or at least £5–10 million), due to the extremely high healthcare costs. Also, ensure it includes strong cancellation cover, baggage protection, and emergency repatriation. A comprehensive travel policy insurance package is usually best.

3. How much does travel insurance cost for Europe and US trips?

Prices vary depending on age, destination, trip duration, and any pre-existing medical conditions. As a general guide:

• Europe: A standard trip holiday insurance policy often ranges from £8–£25 for a short trip.
   

• United States: Policies are typically higher, usually £25–£70+, because medical cover limits need to be much greater.

Annual multi-trip policies may offer better value if you travel frequently.

4. Can travel insurance protect my money if I need to cancel the trip unexpectedly?

Yes. Most good travel insurance for a trip includes cancellation cover, which can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable costs—such as flights, hotels, tours, or cruises—if you need to cancel due to covered reasons (e.g., illness, injury, or certain emergencies). Be sure to check your travel policy insurance to understand exactly what is covered.