This digitally-savvy demographic is opting for longer, purpose-driven journeys that frequently blend professional commitments with leisure and personal milestones such as weddings.
Significantly, they exhibit financial prudence. Almost all of ACKO’s customers—99.48%—selected medical travel insurance, while 83% opted for comprehensive plans that encompass baggage loss, delays, and trip interruptions.
“Today’s travels are more than just a getaway—they signify freedom and connection. However, each journey carries its uncertainties,” remarked an ACKO representative, emphasizing the importance of meticulous planning and insurance for travelers.
The report, grounded in 49,000 travel insurance policies
encompassing over 100,000 travelers, highlights the financial repercussions of common travel issues:
- Medical claims constitute 33% of payouts, averaging ₹16,542 per claim.
- Delayed baggage represents 25% of claims, with average payouts of ₹17,379.
- Trip rescheduling—due to missed connections or cancellations—resulted in the highest average payouts of ₹72,428.
The UK, USA, and Schengen nations exhibited the highest frequency of such claims.
The report also underscores a notable increase in female participation. Women now constitute 43% of international Indian travelers, narrowing a historically significant gender gap. Many are traveling solo, in groups, or leading family holidays, indicating increased independence and comfort in navigating international destinations.
Leading international spots in 2024 included Thailand (13%), UAE (10%), USA (6%), Vietnam (5%), and Indonesia (5%). Accessibility of visas, budget-friendly flights, and social media influence were significant factors in these selections.
Two prominent types of travelers have emerged:
- Beach enthusiasts heading to Phuket, Bali, and Da Nang
- City adventurers exploring Dubai, New York, and San Francisco
With outbound travel expected to surpass $55 billion by 2034, and spending for FY24 already increased by 25% to $31.7 billion, the economic impact of Indian travelers is rapidly growing.
First Published: Jun 3, 2025 3:22 PM IST
