Safety net — not gamble
Recent data shows many travellers are acting on that instinct. A 2025 survey found a 32% rise in travel-insurance quote requests between January and April compared with the same period in 2024, according to a Reuters poll.
That jump mirrors the wave of uncertainty passengers have felt during recent disruptions. Insurers say interest consistently spikes after major events — whether an IT outage or a natural incident — with some reporting a noticeable surge in requests for “delay coverage” right after a global disruption.
Market estimates reinforce the shift: the global travel-insurance sector is valued at about $30.77 billion in 2025 and is forecast to grow at roughly 16.8% through 2029. For everyday travellers, it signals something simple — people aren’t willing to fly without financial protection anymore.
What coverage works
Today’s travellers prioritise coverage that shields them from the most expensive risks:
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Trip-cancellation or interruption protection for events like volcanic ash, severe weather, strikes or unexpected crises.
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Flight-delay benefits that cover meals, hotels or alternative transport when delays stretch for hours.
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Medical and emergency assistance for costly treatment or evacuation abroad.
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Cancel-for-Any-Reason (CFAR) policies for added flexibility.
TravelInsurance.com summarises the shift in their 2025 outlook: “Travel insurance today is more important to travelers than ever before. Disruptions persist, from unpredictable weather events to flight disruptions and health issues.
“Trip cancellation coverage protects trip costs, while travel medical and emergency coverage is essential for those venturing abroad.” For travellers, that means fewer surprise expenses and less risk of losing money on non-refundable bookings.
Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence.
Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.