2025 Best Travel Insurance for India Trips from the UK

Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2025: Top-Rated Brands for Peace of Mind" data-remark="A">2025 Best Travel Insurance for India UK Travel Trips

Do I Need Travel Insurance for India?

Although not mandated legally, travel insurance is strongly advised for visits to India. Since the NHS of the United Kingdom does not protect you in India, your only choice should you become sick or injured is private healthcare. Particularly in big Indian cities, private medical services can be costly. In some places, crime—including theft—is a worry. The FCDO advises against all travel to several areas of India, negating most travel insurance coverage. Reviewing FCDO advice before travel and choosing suitable insurance is therefore quite vital.

How Much is Travel Insurance for India?

For a week of travel insurance from the UK to India, expect to pay roughly £10–40. Age, pre-existing medical issues, vacation length, scheduled activities—adventure sports can call for extra coverage—and coverage levels affect costs. Asda Money observed in October 2024 weekly expenses of £10.54 for a single traveller, £14.67 for a couple, and £38.44 for a family. Comparison services such as insurance Compare the Market yielded comparable quotes for basic coverage.

What Does India Travel Insurance Cover?

Standard coverage usually includes medical emergencies, lost or stolen passports and bags, trip cancellations, travel delays, and repatriation. However, specific exclusions, especially for pre-existing medical illnesses, alcohol or drug-related events, injuries from high-risk activities, terrorism, natural disasters, and travel to FCDO—recommended against areas—can apply. Some policies, such as those from Staysure, provide tie-red coverage tiers (Basic, Comprehensive, Signature) with differing benefits and excess amounts.

Healthcare for Brits in India

Generally, public healthcare in India falls short of UK norms; services outside big cities can be limited. Though it can be somewhat costly, private healthcare in big cities is better. Asda Money advises drinking bottled water and avoiding raw foods to reduce health hazards. Given the worry around insect bites, getting required vaccines and using insect repellent is advisable. According to All Clear, more than 46% of Indian visitors suffer from diarrhoea, which influences their trip decisions.

Travel Risks in India

Petty crime—including pickpocketing and bag snatching—can be a nuisance, particularly in tourist locations and on public transport. Travel alone carefully, particularly late at night. Some insurance companies counsel against solo travel on public transport, rickshaws, or taxis. Since scams are somewhat common, awareness is essential. Asda Money notes that crime is a problem even in popular tourist spots like Goa.

Regional Considerations

Local laws differ among India's 29 states. Research local rules, especially on drinking alcohol, before you go. Drug use is illegal. Dress appropriately, particularly for visits to holy sites. Consider cultural sensitivity. Asda Money notes that some UK lawful activities, including birding close to military locations, could create issues in India.

Getting Around India

Though first—or second-class travel is advised, India boasts an extensive railway system. Though they are somewhat ubiquitous, buses usually lack air conditioning. The traffic in India can make driving dangerous. Allianz Assistance advises caution and warns about the dangers of driving in India. Rickshaws and cabs are handy for city transport but avoid riding them alone, as they are prone to fraud. For lengthy distances, internal flights present the fastest choice.

Visa Requirements for India

British people usually need a visa or e-visa to travel to India. Ensure your passport has two empty pages and a minimum of six months of validity.

Other Tips for Travel to India

Ask a travel nurse or your doctor about advised immunizations and malaria protection. Learn about the local money—the Indian Rupee. Acquire simple Hindi words. Know local conventions about alcohol intake. If you're trekking, consider altitude sickness and be sure your insurance covers enough. Air pollution can be a significant problem, particularly in towns and during winter. Watch your tap water intake. Look at safety advice for LGBTQ+ and female travellers. Know tipping conventions.