Travellers opt for protection first, tickets next
image for illustrative purpose
Mumbai: In the wake of recent airline disruptions, travelers are rethinking how they plan their journeys, placing greater emphasis on preparedness and protection. Experiences of cancellations, baggage delays and prolonged disruptions have made travellers more conscious of safeguarding their travel plans.
As a result, travel assurance products such as zero-cancellation cover, baggage loss protection and trip disruption assistance are increasingly being considered at the booking stage. What was once viewed as an optional add-on is now emerging as a key element of travel planning.
Airlines, online travel agencies and traditional travel agents are also reassessing their offerings, with many likely to embed assurance solutions into their travel packages to boost customer confidence and enhance the overall travel experience.
Industry conversations suggest 2026 could see a significant rise in the adoption of travel assurance products, driven by heightened awareness, the need for flexibility and brands looking to offer value-added protection.
Speaking to Bizz Buzz, Neeraj Verma, CEO of Across Assist, a global travel assurance and assistance company, said, “The travel economy in 2026 is being reshaped by a fundamental shift in expectations. Travelers today want trips that are protected and predictable. This is where travel assurance has moved from a peripheral add on to a core component of modern travel planning.”
Flight disruptions that were once considered inevitable inconveniences, are now a major driver of behavior change among travellers. With travel volumes rising and operational unpredictability increasing, travelers expect real time assistance, financial protection and swift resolution when disruption happens.
Similarly, the rise zero cancellation policies reflects an emotional need for control and financial safety, enabling travellers to make decisions with confidence, knowing their money and mobility are safeguarded, he said.
Baggage protection, too, entered a new phase. As cross border travel expands and digital lifestyles become the norm, losing a bag is no longer just an inconvenience but disruption to work, connectivity and well-being. Services such as emergency cash assistance are increasingly seen critical lifelines, ensuring travellers are never stranded financially when the unexpected happens. Assurance products that proactively track, compensate, and resolve these issues are becoming essential.
