For many travellers, vacations are no longer just about sightseeing, they are more about adventure and new experiences. This is one of the top reasons why activities like skydiving and scuba diving are gaining popularity among these thrill-seeking travellers. Whether it is skydiving or scuba diving, these experiences create unforgettable memories. But have you ever thought about what happens if something goes wrong? Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in such situations, but does it cover adventure sports?
Does Standard Travel Insurance Cover Adventure Sports?
Most regular travel insurance policies in India cover common risks such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, flight delays, etc. However, adventure sports like skydiving and scuba diving are often considered high-risk activities, meaning they may not be covered under a basic travel insurance plan.
Since these activities involve a higher chance of accidents, insurers either exclude them from coverage or charge an additional premium to include them. If you are planning an adventure trip, it is essential to check whether your travel insurance policy includes adventure sports coverage or if you need an add-on.
Skydiving and Travel Insurance
Skydiving is an extreme sport that is rapidly gaining popularity among Indian travellers. Many adventure seekers from India travel to destinations like Dubai, Thailand, Spain, Australia, etc., to experience the thrill of jumping from a plane.
Globally, skydiving is considered relatively safe, with fatal accidents occurring in fewer than 1 per 100,000 jumps. However, even minor injuries from skydiving can lead to expensive medical treatments, especially in foreign countries. And without having the benefits of travel insurance, you will have to pay out of your pocket!
Most standard Indian travel insurance policies do not cover skydiving-related injuries, but some insurers, including Chola MS, may offer adventure sports coverage as an add-on. If you are planning to skydive, make sure your policy includes it to avoid hefty medical bills.
Scuba Diving and Travel Insurance
Scuba diving is another adventure sport that is popular among Indian travellers, especially in places like Goa, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and international locations like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Maldives.
Despite safety regulations, scuba diving carries risks, including decompression sickness, drowning, and equipment malfunctions. According to international reports, there are 1,000 diving-related injuries annually, and over 10% of these cases are fatal.
Most standard Indian travel insurance policies exclude scuba diving, but some providers, such as Chola MS, offer customisable travel insurance plans that can include coverage for scuba diving as an add-on. This ensures that in case of an emergency, your medical expenses and rescue costs are covered.
How to Experience the Benefits of Travel Insurance for Adventure Sports?
If you love adventure sports, here is how to make sure you enjoy the benefits of travel insurance for high-risk activities:
- Check if the Travel Insurance Plan Covers Adventure Sports – You have to check if the plan allows for adventure sports coverage or allows you to customise your policy in a way that you can enjoy the benefits of travel insurance for certain experiences.
- Look for an Adventure Sports Add-On – Some travel insurance policies allow you to add coverage for specific sports by paying an extra premium.
- Check Policy Terms Carefully – Not all adventure sports are covered, so make sure to read the policy details to see what is included and what is not.
- Compare Insurance Providers – Different plans offer different levels of coverage, so comparing options ensures you get the best protection for your trip.
Conclusion
Adventure sports add excitement to your travels, but they also come with their fair share of risks. If you are planning to skydive or scuba dive, don’t assume that your regular travel insurance will cover you. Leading Indian insurers like Chola MS offer customizable travel insurance plans. Do ensure that you check what activities are permitted or excluded for coverage, as some adventure sports could be excluded as high-risk activities from the regular travel insurance coverage point of view.
Before you book your adventure trip, make sure to review your insurance policy, choose the right coverage, and travel with peace of mind.
