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What Does Trip Insurance Cover For American Airlines

Published: December 6, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Dania Mizell

Introduction

Traveling is an exciting adventure, whether you’re jetting off for business or taking a much-needed vacation. However, unexpected events can sometimes disrupt our travel plans, leaving us stressed and stranded. That’s where trip insurance comes to the rescue. It offers a safety net, providing coverage for a range of unforeseen circumstances that could impact your journey.

When it comes to air travel, American Airlines is a popular choice for many travelers. To ensure a worry-free trip, it’s important to understand what trip insurance can cover for American Airlines passengers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various aspects of trip insurance, giving you a clear understanding of the protection it offers and helping you make an informed decision about whether to purchase it for your next American Airlines flight.

From trip cancellation and interruption to lost baggage and medical emergencies, trip insurance can provide valuable coverage and peace of mind. It’s important to note that the specific coverage and terms may vary depending on the insurance provider and the policy you choose, so be sure to carefully review the details before making a purchase.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the different coverage options typically offered by trip insurance for American Airlines passengers. We’ll discuss the protection provided for trip cancellation or interruption, trip delay, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, travel accidents, and even rental car protection. Additionally, we’ll cover any exclusions or limitations you should be aware of, as well as how to purchase trip insurance for your American Airlines flights.

So, whether you’re heading on a domestic getaway or an international adventure with American Airlines, read on to discover the benefits of trip insurance and how it can safeguard your travel plans.

Overview of Trip Insurance

Trip insurance, also known as travel insurance, is a type of insurance that provides coverage for unexpected events that may occur before or during a trip. It is designed to protect travelers from financial loss and provide assistance in various situations that could disrupt travel plans.

When it comes to American Airlines, trip insurance can be purchased to cover a wide range of potential issues that could arise before or during your trip. These could include trip cancellation or interruption, trip delay, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, travel accidents, and even rental car protection.

By investing in trip insurance, you can have peace of mind, knowing that you are financially protected if something unexpected happens. Whether it’s a sudden illness or injury, a natural disaster, a travel advisory, or any other covered event, trip insurance can help you recoup some or all of the expenses associated with your trip.

It’s important to note that trip insurance is typically purchased separately from your airline ticket. While some airlines may offer their own trip insurance options, it’s advisable to explore coverage from third-party providers as well. This allows you to compare different policies, levels of coverage, and pricing to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget.

When considering trip insurance, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy to understand what is and isn’t covered. Each policy will have its own set of limitations, exclusions, and coverage limits, so it’s important to choose a plan that aligns with your travel plans and preferences.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the specific coverage options provided by trip insurance for American Airlines passengers. Whether you’re looking for protection against trip cancellation, delay, lost baggage, or medical expenses, understanding the details of trip insurance coverage will help you make an informed decision for your future travels with American Airlines.

Coverage for Trip Cancellation or Interruption

One of the primary benefits of trip insurance is coverage for trip cancellation or interruption. Life is unpredictable, and there may be instances where you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Trip insurance can help protect your investment by reimbursing you for non-refundable expenses.

If you need to cancel your trip before your scheduled departure, trip insurance can provide coverage for a variety of reasons such as a sudden illness or injury, the death of a family member, or a natural disaster that renders your destination uninhabitable. Depending on the policy, you may also be covered for events like a travel advisory issued by the government or the bankruptcy of the airline or tour operator.

In the case of trip interruption, if you need to return home early due to an emergency or unforeseen event, trip insurance can cover the additional expenses incurred, such as change fees for flights or unused portions of accommodations.

It’s essential to carefully review the coverage limits and exclusions of your trip insurance policy. Some policies have specific covered reasons for trip cancellation or interruption, while others offer more comprehensive coverage. It’s also worth considering whether you want “cancel for any reason” coverage, which provides more flexibility but may come at an additional cost.

When purchasing trip insurance for American Airlines travel, be sure to consider the total cost of your trip and select a coverage amount that adequately protects your investment. Keep in mind that trip insurance must be purchased before any unforeseen event occurs, so it’s wise to secure coverage as soon as you book your trip.

Trip cancellation or interruption coverage helps minimize the financial risk of having to cancel or cut short your trip due to unexpected circumstances. By including this coverage in your trip insurance policy, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you have financial protection if your plans need to change.

Coverage for Trip Delay

When it comes to travel, delays can be frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, trip insurance can provide coverage for trip delays, offering assistance and reimbursement for certain expenses incurred as a result of the delay.

If your American Airlines flight is delayed for a significant amount of time due to reasons beyond your control, such as weather conditions, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen events, trip insurance can help cover the additional costs you may incur during the delay.

Common expenses that may be covered include meals, accommodations, transportation, and even necessary phone calls or internet access while you wait for your flight to depart. The specific coverage and limits will depend on your trip insurance policy, so it’s important to review the details before purchasing.

It’s worth noting that trip delay coverage typically comes into effect after a certain period of delay, such as a minimum of six hours. Prior to that, it’s advisable to check with the airline for any compensation or assistance they may offer. Once the minimum delay threshold is met, trip insurance can provide reimbursement for eligible expenses incurred during the extended delay.

When purchasing trip insurance, consider the potential for delays and the impact it may have on your trip. If you have a tight schedule or important events booked, having coverage for trip delays can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

It’s important to keep all receipts and documentation related to the expenses incurred during the trip delay, as you will likely need to submit them for reimbursement. Contact your trip insurance provider as soon as possible to understand the process for filing a claim and receive proper guidance.

With trip delay coverage, you can navigate unexpected delays with more ease. Rather than bearing the financial burden yourself, trip insurance can help cover necessary expenses, ensuring that you can make the most of your travel experience with American Airlines.

Coverage for Lost or Delayed Baggage

One of the most frustrating experiences while traveling is when your baggage is lost or delayed. Luckily, trip insurance can provide coverage and assistance in such situations, helping to alleviate some of the stress and inconvenience.

If your luggage goes missing or is delayed by the airline during your American Airlines travel, trip insurance can cover the cost of necessary items you may need to purchase. This coverage typically includes essentials like clothing, toiletries, and other personal items. The specific coverage limits will vary depending on your policy, so be sure to review the details when purchasing trip insurance.

In the event that your baggage is lost and doesn’t get recovered, trip insurance may provide reimbursement for the value of your lost belongings. It’s important to keep track of the items in your luggage and their estimated value, as you may need to provide documentation to support your claim.

When your baggage is delayed for an extended period, trip insurance can also provide coverage for the additional expenses you may incur. This could include the cost of purchasing essential items, such as clothing and toiletries, while waiting for your luggage to be delivered. The coverage limits and waiting period for delayed baggage will vary depending on your policy, so it’s important to review this information carefully.

To ensure a smooth claims process, it’s recommended to report any lost or delayed baggage to the airline immediately and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or relevant documentation. This will serve as evidence when filing a claim with your trip insurance provider. Be sure to keep all receipts for items purchased during the delay or in the process of replacing lost items.

By including coverage for lost or delayed baggage in your trip insurance policy, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you’ll be financially protected and able to replace any essential items if necessary. This coverage provides a valuable safety net and ensures that your travel experience with American Airlines remains as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Coverage for Medical Expenses and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, even during your travels with American Airlines. Trip insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses incurred while traveling and even offer assistance in arranging emergency medical evacuation if needed.

If you experience a sudden illness or injury during your trip and require medical attention, trip insurance can help cover the costs of necessary medical treatment. This can include doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, and other related expenses. It’s important to review the medical coverage limits and any exclusions mentioned in your trip insurance policy.

In addition to medical expenses, some trip insurance policies also offer coverage for emergency medical evacuation. This means that if you require immediate medical attention that is not available locally, trip insurance can help arrange and cover the cost of transporting you to a suitable medical facility. This could involve air ambulances, specialized medical transportation, or coordination of medical repatriation back to your home country.

When choosing trip insurance, consider the coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, as some policies may have limitations or exclusions. If you have any pre-existing conditions, it’s important to disclose them when purchasing the policy or seek out a policy that offers coverage for pre-existing conditions.

When a medical emergency occurs, it’s crucial to contact the emergency assistance hotline provided by your trip insurance provider. They can guide you through the process, assist in finding appropriate medical care, and make arrangements for necessary transportation or evacuation if required.

Having coverage for medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation gives you peace of mind, knowing that you will be taken care of in the event of a medical emergency during your travels with American Airlines. It helps alleviate the financial burden and ensures that you receive the necessary care and attention, no matter where you are in the world.

Coverage for Travel Accidents

While no one wants to think about accidents happening during their travels, it’s important to be prepared and protected. Trip insurance can provide coverage for travel accidents, ensuring that you have financial assistance in case of unforeseen incidents.

Travel accident coverage typically provides benefits in the event of accidental death or dismemberment that occurs during your trip. This coverage can help provide financial security for you and your loved ones in the unfortunate event of a fatal accident or severe injury while traveling with American Airlines.

The coverage amount for travel accidents varies depending on your trip insurance policy. Some policies offer a fixed amount, while others provide coverage based on a percentage of the policy’s total benefit limit. It’s crucial to review the details of the coverage and the terms and conditions.

While travel accident coverage can provide peace of mind, it’s important to note that it is not a substitute for health or life insurance. Travel accident coverage typically focuses on accidents that occur specifically during your trip and may have certain exclusions or limitations. If you’re looking for more comprehensive coverage, you may want to consider purchasing additional life or health insurance.

In case of a travel accident, it’s essential to contact your trip insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process. They will guide you on the documentation required and the steps to take. Be prepared to provide any necessary evidence, such as medical reports and police reports, to support your claim.

By including travel accident coverage in your trip insurance policy, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have financial protection in the event of a travel accident. It’s an extra layer of security that adds to the overall safety and preparedness during your travels with American Airlines.

Coverage for Rental Car Protection

When traveling, many people opt to rent a car to explore their destination conveniently. However, accidents or damage to the rental car can put a damper on your trip. Fortunately, trip insurance can provide coverage for rental car protection, ensuring that you’re financially protected in case of any mishaps.

Rental car protection coverage helps safeguard you from the financial burden of damages or theft to the rental car. If you’re involved in an accident or if the rental car is stolen or vandalized during your trip, trip insurance can help cover the costs associated with repairs or replacement.

Depending on your trip insurance policy, rental car protection coverage may include damage to the rental vehicle, loss of use charges imposed by the rental company, and even reimbursement of the deductible you may be responsible for under the rental car agreement.

It’s important to note that rental car protection within trip insurance typically acts as secondary coverage. This means that it steps in to cover costs that exceed what may already be provided by the rental car company’s insurance or your personal car insurance policy. It’s advisable to review your existing insurance policies to understand your coverage and determine if additional rental car protection is necessary.

Before renting a car, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the rental agreement and the terms and conditions set by the rental car company. This allows you to understand your responsibilities and any potential liabilities. It’s also recommended to inspect the rental car thoroughly and document any existing damages to avoid any disputes later on.

In the event of an accident or damage to the rental car, notify your trip insurance provider as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. They will guide you on the necessary documentation and steps to take to receive reimbursement for the covered expenses.

By including rental car protection coverage in your trip insurance policy, you can explore your destination with peace of mind, knowing that you’re financially protected in case of any unfortunate incidents involving the rental car. It’s an added layer of security that enhances your travel experience with American Airlines.

Additional Benefits and Add-Ons

In addition to the core coverage options, trip insurance for American Airlines passengers may offer additional benefits and add-ons to enhance your travel protection. These optional features can provide extra peace of mind and tailor your coverage to meet your specific needs. Here are some common additional benefits and add-ons to consider:

• Travel Medical Insurance: If you require more comprehensive medical coverage while traveling, you may have the option to add travel medical insurance to your trip insurance policy. This can provide coverage for medical expenses unrelated to trip interruptions or accidents.
• Cancel for Any Reason: Some trip insurance plans offer a “cancel for any reason” add-on, providing more flexibility in canceling your trip. This can be beneficial if you have concerns about traveling due to personal reasons not covered by standard trip cancellation coverage.
• Pre-existing Condition Coverage: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you may be able to add coverage specifically for these conditions. This ensures that any medical issues related to your pre-existing conditions will be covered during your trip.
• Adventure Sports Coverage: If you plan on participating in adventure sports or activities during your trip, you may have the option to add coverage specifically for these high-risk activities. This can provide protection against injuries or accidents that may occur during such activities.
• Identity Theft Protection: To protect yourself from identity theft while traveling, some trip insurance policies offer identity theft protection as an add-on. This can help with services such as credit monitoring and resolution assistance in case your personal information is compromised.

When considering additional benefits and add-ons, it’s important to carefully review the details and terms of the coverage. Evaluate your specific needs and assess if the additional cost is worth the added protection.

Keep in mind that these optional benefits and add-ons may not be available with all trip insurance providers or policies. It’s recommended to compare different insurance plans to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

By taking advantage of these additional benefits and add-ons, you can customize your trip insurance coverage to provide the level of protection and peace of mind that matches your unique travel requirements, ensuring a worry-free journey with American Airlines.

Exclusions and Limitations

While trip insurance can provide valuable coverage for various travel contingencies, it’s important to understand that there are certain exclusions and limitations to be aware of. These exclusions and limitations define what is not covered by your trip insurance policy. Here are some common exclusions and limitations you may encounter:

• Pre-Existing Conditions: Many trip insurance policies have specific limitations on coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. It’s crucial to review the policy’s definition of pre-existing conditions and understand any restrictions or exclusions that may apply.
• High-Risk Activities: Some policies may exclude coverage for injuries or accidents related to high-risk activities such as skydiving, bungee jumping, or other extreme sports. If you plan on participating in these activities, consider adding an adventure sports coverage add-on to your policy.
• Intentional Acts or Illegal Activities: Trip insurance typically does not provide coverage for losses or expenses incurred as a result of intentional acts or illegal activities. Any claims related to these activities will likely be denied.
• War or Terrorism: Most trip insurance policies exclude coverage for losses or expenses resulting from acts of war or terrorism. It’s important to understand the specific definition of these terms and their implications for your coverage.
• Carrier Bankruptcy: While trip insurance can provide coverage in the event of carrier bankruptcy, it’s essential to review the policy’s specific requirements and limitations. Coverage may vary depending on the timing of your trip and when the carrier bankruptcy was announced.
• Unattended Belongings: If your personal belongings are lost or stolen while left unattended, trip insurance may not cover the loss. It’s important to take reasonable precautions to ensure the security of your belongings.

These exclusions and limitations are intended to manage risk for the insurance provider and ensure that coverage is provided for genuine unforeseen circumstances. It’s crucial to carefully review the full terms and conditions of your trip insurance policy to understand the specific exclusions, limitations, and any other provisions that may affect your coverage.

If you have any concerns or questions about the exclusions and limitations of your trip insurance policy, it’s recommended to reach out to your insurance provider for clarification. They can provide the necessary information and help you make informed decisions regarding your travel coverage.

By understanding the exclusions and limitations of your trip insurance policy, you can better manage your expectations and ensure that you have appropriate coverage for the specific risks and situations you may encounter while traveling with American Airlines.

How to Purchase Trip Insurance for American Airlines

When it comes to purchasing trip insurance for your American Airlines travel, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you find the right coverage that meets your needs. Here’s a guide on how to purchase trip insurance:

• Evaluate Your Travel Needs: Start by assessing your specific travel needs. Consider factors such as the length of your trip, the destination, any pre-existing medical conditions, and the value of your travel investment. This will help you determine the level of coverage and the specific features you require from your trip insurance policy.
• Research Trip Insurance Providers: Look for reputable trip insurance providers that offer policies suitable for your travel needs. Consider factors such as their financial stability, customer reviews, and the range of coverage options they provide.
• Compare Coverage and Pricing: Request quotes from multiple trip insurance providers and compare the coverage and pricing of their policies. Pay close attention to the specific coverage areas that are important to you, such as trip cancellation, medical expenses, or rental car protection.
• Read the Policy Details: Before making a final decision, thoroughly read the details of the policy you are considering. Pay attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and any additional benefits or add-ons that may be offered. Ensure it aligns with your travel needs and provides sufficient coverage.
• Purchase the Policy: Once you have selected the trip insurance policy that meets your requirements, proceed with the purchasing process. This can typically be done online through the insurance provider’s website. Fill out the required information accurately and make the payment to secure your coverage.
• Keep Documentation Handy: After purchasing the trip insurance, make sure to keep a copy of your policy documents, receipts, and any other relevant documentation. This will be important in case you need to file a claim or refer to your coverage details during your trip.

It’s important to note that trip insurance should ideally be purchased soon after booking your American Airlines travel. This ensures that you have coverage in case any unforeseen events occur before your departure.

If you have any questions or need assistance during the purchase process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the trip insurance provider’s customer service for clarification or guidance. They can help you navigate through the policy options and provide the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Purchasing trip insurance for your American Airlines travel is a smart way to protect your investment and provide peace of mind. By following these steps, you can select a policy that suits your travel needs and enjoy a worry-free journey.

Traveling with American Airlines can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, unexpected events can sometimes disrupt our travel plans and leave us in a state of uncertainty. That’s where trip insurance comes in, providing a safety net and offering coverage for a range of unforeseen circumstances that could impact your journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we have explored the different coverage options typically offered by trip insurance for American Airlines passengers. We discussed the protection provided for trip cancellation or interruption, trip delay, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, travel accidents, and rental car protection.

It’s important to note that the specific coverage and terms may vary depending on the insurance provider and the policy you choose. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully review the details of the policy before making a purchase to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

We also discussed additional benefits and add-ons that you can consider to enhance your trip insurance coverage, such as travel medical insurance, cancel for any reason coverage, pre-existing condition coverage, adventure sports coverage, and identity theft protection.

Furthermore, we highlighted the exclusions and limitations that you should be aware of when it comes to trip insurance. Familiarizing yourself with these exclusions and limitations will help you manage your expectations and ensure that you have appropriate coverage for your specific travel circumstances.

To purchase trip insurance for your American Airlines travel, evaluate your travel needs, research reputable trip insurance providers, compare coverage and pricing, carefully read the policy details, purchase the policy, and keep all documentation handy for reference.

Ultimately, trip insurance provides valuable protection and peace of mind for your travels with American Airlines. It offers financial security, assistance in emergencies, and a safety net to protect your travel investment. By understanding the coverage options and selecting the right policy, you can travel with confidence, knowing that you’re protected against unforeseen events and ready to make the most of your journey.

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• Airlines + Airports

How to Pick the Best Flight Insurance Policy for Your Next Trip

Here’s what you need to know about flight insurance before you buy.

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From flight delays to damaged bags, air travel can be stressful. Thankfully, there’s a range of flight insurance options that will cover expenses in case something goes wrong and provide peace of mind, even if everything goes as planned. 

So, what is flight insurance? Flight insurance is a type of policy that only protects the cost of your flight and flight-related expenses. This type of insurance can include trip cancellation, trip interruption, flight delay , and lost or damaged baggage coverage. Unlike a comprehensive travel insurance policy, flight insurance doesn’t cover things like emergency medical coverage or emergency evacuation.

Here’s everything you need to know about flight insurance so you can decide which plan is best for you.

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Pros of Flight Insurance 

The obvious benefit of buying flight insurance is that you’ll be protected financially if things go wrong. Even if your trip goes according to plan, the peace of mind you’ll have may be worth the relatively small cost of a basic insurance plan. In 2022, the average cost of a policy was just $266, while the average payout was $2,157, according to Squaremouth , a travel insurance comparison website.

Cons of Flight Insurance

Ironically, the biggest con of purchasing flight insurance occurs when your trip goes smoothly.  “If you have it, chances are you won't need it, “ says Faith Ann Liuzzo-Bartholomew, a travel advisor who is a member of the American Society of Travel Advisors. That’s what can make the decision to purchase flight insurance so difficult. 

“Flight insurance is a guarantee that your hard-earned dollars and trip plans are protected in case any problems or issues occur,” says Liuzzo-Bartholomew. However, If your trip ends up problem-free, the money spent on flight insurance can feel wasted.

Types of Flight Insurance

There are different types of flight insurance, and each type of policy covers different aspects of a trip.

Airline-issued Flight Insurance Policies

You can buy flight insurance directly from the airline when you’re purchasing a ticket. For example, American Airlines offers flight insurance policies through Allianz Travel that include trip cancellation and trip delay coverage, as well as lost and damaged bag protection. United Airlines offers policies through AIG that include coverage for flight cancellations, missed connections, and lost baggage.

These types of policies tend to offer bare-bones coverage, according to Liuzzo-Bartholomew. 

“If you add the insurance through the airlines with your flight purchase, it is more of a budget policy and includes the basics for delays, cancellations, luggage issues, and re-bookings.” 

Comprehensive Travel Insurance Policies

If you are planning an expensive trip or would rather pay a little more upfront for additional peace of mind, a comprehensive travel insurance policy may be a good option. This type of policy can still have many variables but will generally cover more than just a flight insurance policy. 

For even more flexibility, keep an eye out for a policy that includes the option to upgrade to “Cancel for Any Reason” insurance. A CFAR policy allows travelers to cancel a trip for reasons not covered in their base insurance policy. There are additional restrictions on when you can add CFAR insurance and when a trip needs to be canceled to qualify for reimbursement.

Credit Card Travel Insurance

Many credit cards come with complimentary flight insurance that can cover you in the event of disrupted travel plans. For some travelers, the coverage provided by their credit card may be enough.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a top-notch policy that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage, lost and delayed baggage coverage, and trip delay insurance that kicks in just six hours after a flight’s scheduled departure time. Another premium credit card, The Platinum Card from American Express , includes trip cancellation, interruption, and trip delay insurance.

Since we’re talking about flight insurance, you may assume that all airline co-branded credit cards come with flight insurance. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Some, like the United Club Infinite Card , include trip cancellation/interruption coverage, while others, like the Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard , don’t have any type of insurance.

Keep in mind that it’s important to purchase your flight with the card that has the insurance coverage for the policy to be valid.

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How to Choose the Best Policy

There are different types of flight insurance policies, so you’ll want to do some research to find the one that best fits your needs.

Mitch Krayton, owner of Krayton Travel and a member of the American Society of Travel Advisors, advises his clients to think about what matters most to them. “Ask what risk you are most concerned about in your travels and what support and financial compensation you are willing to pay a premium for.”

The type of flight insurance policy you’ll need will depend largely on what type of traveler you are. A couple who enjoys weekend trips to different destinations in the U.S. might not need much more than what is offered by the airline or is available through a credit card. 

However, Pamela Holt, travel expert and host of “Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel” on Amazon Prime, illustrates an opposite scenario.  “Someone like me, who is constantly traveling solo throughout the year to remote locations and requires some flexibility with travel dates, will likely upgrade to a more comprehensive travel insurance plan,” she says.

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How to Use Flight Insurance 

Picture yourself right after your flight gets canceled. The airline rebooks you on the next flight out, but it’s not until the following morning, Even if a hotel voucher is provided, you’ll still end up with out-of-pocket costs. Flight insurance can reimburse you for those extra expenses like transportation to and from the hotel and meals that won’t be covered by the airline.

If you’re making a claim on your credit card’s travel insurance, you’ll need to charge any expenses on the card that has the insurance. Save all of your receipts and grab any relevant screenshots that show your flight was delayed or canceled.

If you need to file a claim for damaged baggage, act fast. Most airlines require you to submit a claim within 24 hours of landing. Airlines are required to cover some damage in certain situations, but having a flight insurance policy can fill in the gaps between what they cover and what your out-of-pocket expenses actually are.

If you purchased a flight insurance policy from your airline or a travel insurance company, you’ll need receipts for all of your unreimbursed expenses and proof of your disrupted travel plans. Be sure to file a claim as soon as you get home, as many policies have timing requirements.

Related Articles

The Ultimate Guide To American Airlines Trip Insurance: Worth It Or Not?

What To Know

• In this blog post, we will delve into the details of American Airlines trip insurance to determine if it is a worthwhile investment for your next journey.
• Filing a claim can be a time-consuming and complex process, and it is important to understand the terms and conditions of your policy.
• Whether or not American Airlines trip insurance is worth it is a personal decision that depends on your individual circumstances and travel plans.

Planning a trip can be both exciting and stressful, especially when it comes to unforeseen circumstances. Trip insurance can provide peace of mind by protecting you against financial losses in case of unexpected events. In this blog post , we will delve into the details of American Airlines trip insurance to determine if it is a worthwhile investment for your next journey.

Understanding American Airlines Trip Insurance

American Airlines offers three levels of trip insurance : Basic, Preferred, and Premium. Each level provides different coverage options , including:

• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Baggage delay and loss
• Medical expenses
• Emergency evacuation

Benefits of American Airlines Trip Insurance

1. Comprehensive Coverage: American Airlines trip insurance offers a wide range of coverage options to protect you against various travel disruptions.

2. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are financially protected in case of unexpected events can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your trip without worry.

3. Flexibility: The different levels of coverage allow you to choose the plan that best suits your needs and budget.

4. Convenient Purchase: You can easily purchase American Airlines trip insurance when you book your flight or through the Manage My Trip section.

Limitations of American Airlines Trip Insurance

1. Exclusions: Like all trip insurance policies , American Airlines trip insurance has certain exclusions, such as pre-existing medical conditions or events that are not covered by the policy.

2. Cost: Trip insurance can add an additional cost to your travel expenses , which may not be feasible for everyone.

3. Claims Process: Filing a claim can be a time-consuming and complex process , and it is important to understand the terms and conditions of your policy.

Is American Airlines Trip Insurance Worth It?

The decision of whether American Airlines trip insurance is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and travel plans . Consider the following factors:

• Risk tolerance: If you are comfortable with the potential financial risks of travel disruptions, you may not need trip insurance.
• Travel itinerary: If your itinerary involves multiple flights, connections, or expensive activities, trip insurance may provide valuable protection.
• Personal circumstances: If you have pre-existing medical conditions or other factors that could affect your ability to travel, trip insurance may be a wise investment.
• Budget: Consider the cost of trip insurance and weigh it against the potential financial benefits it could provide.

Alternatives to American Airlines Trip Insurance

If you decide that American Airlines trip insurance is not right for you, there are other options available:

• Travel credit card insurance: Some travel credit cards offer trip insurance as a benefit.
• Third-party travel insurance providers: There are many reputable travel insurance providers that offer a range of plans.
• Self-insurance: You can set aside a portion of your travel budget to cover potential expenses in case of unexpected events.

When to Purchase American Airlines Trip Insurance

If you decide that American Airlines trip insurance is worth it for your trip, it is important to purchase it as early as possible. This will ensure that you are covered from the moment you book your flight.

Tips for Filing a Claim

If you need to file a claim, follow these tips:

• Keep all documentation related to your travel disruption, such as receipts and flight itineraries.
• File your claim promptly according to the policy guidelines.
• Provide clear and detailed information about the incident.
• Be patient and persistent in following up on your claim.

The Bottom Line: Making an Informed Decision

Whether or not American Airlines trip insurance is worth it is a personal decision that depends on your individual circumstances and travel plans . By understanding the benefits and limitations of the policy, considering alternatives, and purchasing early, you can make an informed decision that provides you with peace of mind and financial protection on your next journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the cost of American Airlines trip insurance? A: The cost varies depending on the level of coverage and the length of your trip. You can get an estimate when you purchase your flight or through the Manage My Trip section.

Q: Can I cancel my American Airlines trip insurance? A: Yes, you can cancel your trip insurance within 14 days of purchase for a full refund.

Q: What is the deductible for American Airlines trip insurance? A: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. The deductible varies depending on the level of coverage you choose.

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The best travel insurance policies and providers

It's easy to dismiss the value of travel insurance until you need it.

Many travelers have strong opinions about whether you should buy travel insurance . However, the purpose of this post isn't to determine whether it's worth investing in. Instead, it compares some of the top travel insurance providers and policies so you can determine which travel insurance option is best for you.

Of course, as the coronavirus remains an ongoing concern, it's important to understand whether travel insurance covers pandemics. Some policies will cover you if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 and have proof of illness from a doctor. Others will take coverage a step further, covering additional types of pandemic-related expenses and cancellations.

Know, though, that every policy will have exclusions and restrictions that may limit coverage. For example, fear of travel is generally not a covered reason for invoking trip cancellation or interruption coverage, while specific stipulations may apply to elevated travel warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Interested in travel insurance? Visit InsureMyTrip.com to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs.

So, before buying a specific policy, you must understand the full terms and any special notices the insurer has about COVID-19. You may even want to buy the optional cancel for any reason add-on that's available for some comprehensive policies. While you'll pay more for that protection, it allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and still get some of your costs back. Note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has other eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

In this guide, we'll review several policies from top travel insurance providers so you have a better understanding of your options before picking the policy and provider that best address your wants and needs.

The best travel insurance providers

To put together this list of the best travel insurance providers, a number of details were considered: favorable ratings from TPG Lounge members, the availability of details about policies and the claims process online, positive online ratings and the ability to purchase policies in most U.S. states. You can also search for options from these (and other) providers through an insurance comparison site like InsureMyTrip .

When comparing insurance providers, I priced out a single-trip policy for each provider for a $2,000, one-week vacation to Istanbul . I used my actual age and state of residence when obtaining quotes. As a result, you may see a different price — or even additional policies due to regulations for travel insurance varying from state to state — when getting a quote.

AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard receives many positive reviews from readers in the TPG Lounge who have filed claims with the company. AIG offers three plans online, which you can compare side by side, and the ability to examine sample policies. Here are three plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

AIG Travel Guard also offers an annual travel plan. This plan is priced at $259 per year for one Florida resident.

Additionally, AIG Travel Guard offers several other policies, including a single-trip policy without trip cancellation protection . See AIG Travel Guard's COVID-19 notification and COVID-19 advisory for current details regarding COVID-19 coverage.

Preexisting conditions

Typically, AIG Travel Guard wouldn't cover you for any loss or expense due to a preexisting medical condition that existed within 180 days of the coverage effective date. However, AIG Travel Guard may waive the preexisting medical condition exclusion on some plans if you meet the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of your initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage you purchase equals all trip costs at the time of purchase. You must update your coverage to insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements that you add to your trip within 15 days of paying the travel supplier for these additional arrangements.
• You must be medically able to travel when you purchase your plan.

Standout features

• The Deluxe and Preferred plans allow you to purchase an upgrade that lets you cancel your trip for any reason. However, reimbursement under this coverage will not exceed 50% or 75% of your covered trip cost.
• You can include one child (age 17 and younger) with each paying adult for no additional cost on most single-trip plans.
• Other optional upgrades, including an adventure sports bundle, a baggage bundle, an inconvenience bundle, a pet bundle, a security bundle and a wedding bundle, are available on some policies. So, an AIG Travel Guard plan may be a good choice if you know you want extra coverage in specific areas.

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz is one of the most highly regarded providers in the TPG Lounge, and many readers found the claim process reasonable. Allianz offers many plans, including the following single-trip plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

If you travel frequently, it may make sense to purchase an annual multi-trip policy. For this plan, all of the maximum coverage amounts in the table below are per trip (except for the trip cancellation and trip interruption amounts, which are an aggregate limit per policy). Trips typically must last no more than 45 days, although some plans may cover trips of up to 90 days.

See Allianz's coverage alert for current information on COVID-19 coverage.

Most Allianz travel insurance plans may cover preexisting medical conditions if you meet particular requirements. For the OneTrip Premier, Prime and Basic plans, the requirements are as follows:

• You purchased the policy within 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.
• You were a U.S. resident when you purchased the policy.
• You were medically able to travel when you purchased the policy.
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the total, nonrefundable cost of your trip (including arrangements that will become nonrefundable or subject to cancellation penalties before your departure date). If you incur additional nonrefundable trip expenses after purchasing this policy, you must insure them within 14 days of their purchase.
• Allianz offers reasonably priced annual policies for independent travelers and families who take multiple trips lasting up to 45 days (or 90 days for select plans) per year.
• Some Allianz plans provide the option of receiving a flat reimbursement amount without receipts for trip delay and baggage delay claims. Of course, you can also submit receipts to get up to the maximum refund.
• For emergency transportation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Allianz, and Allianz must then make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, most Allianz policies provide an option if you cannot contact the company: Allianz will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

American Express Travel Insurance offers four different package plans and a build-your-own coverage option. You don't have to be an American Express cardholder to purchase this insurance. Here are the four package options for my sample weeklong trip to Turkey. Unlike some other providers, Amex won't ask for your travel destination on the initial quote (but will when you purchase the plan).

Amex's build-your-own coverage plan is unique because you can purchase just the coverage you need. For most types of protection, you can even select the coverage amount that works best for you.

The prices for the packages and the build-your-own plan don't increase for longer trips — as long as the trip cost remains constant. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit is only available for your first 60 days of travel.

Typically, Amex won't cover any loss you incur because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. However, Amex may waive its preexisting-condition exclusion if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You must be medically able to travel at the time you pay the policy premium.
• You pay the policy premium within 14 days of making the first covered trip deposit.
• Amex's build-your-own coverage option allows you to only purchase — and pay for — the coverage you need.
• Coverage on long trips doesn't cost more than coverage for short trips, making this policy ideal for extended getaways. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit only covers your first 60 days of travel.
• American Express Travel Insurance can protect travel expenses you purchase with Amex Membership Rewards points in the Pay with Points program (as well as travel expenses bought with cash, debit or credit). However, travel expenses bought with other types of points and miles aren't covered.

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

GeoBlue is different from most other providers described in this piece because it only provides medical coverage while you're traveling internationally and does not offer benefits to protect the cost of your trip. There are many different policies. Some require you to have primary health insurance in the U.S. (although it doesn't need to be provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield), but all of them only offer coverage while traveling outside the U.S.

Two single-trip plans are available if you're traveling for six months or less. The Voyager Choice policy provides coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger and already have a U.S. health insurance policy.

The Voyager Essential policy provides coverage (including medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger, regardless of whether they have primary health insurance.

In addition to these options, two multi-trip plans cover trips of up to 70 days each for one year. Both policies provide coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for preexisting conditions) to travelers with primary health insurance.

Be sure to check out GeoBlue's COVID-19 notices before buying a plan.

Most GeoBlue policies explicitly cover sudden recurrences of preexisting conditions for medical services and medical evacuation.

• GeoBlue can be an excellent option if you're mainly concerned about the medical side of travel insurance.
• GeoBlue provides single-trip, multi-trip and long-term medical travel insurance policies for many different types of travel.

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

IMG offers various travel medical insurance policies for travelers, as well as comprehensive travel insurance policies. For a single trip of 90 days or less, there are five policy types available for vacation or holiday travelers. Although you must enter your gender, males and females received the same quote for my one-week search.

You can purchase an annual multi-trip travel medical insurance plan. Some only cover trips lasting up to 30 or 45 days, but others provide coverage for longer trips.

See IMG's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Most plans may cover preexisting conditions under set parameters or up to specific amounts. For example, the iTravelInsured Travel LX travel insurance plan shown above may cover preexisting conditions if you purchase the insurance within 24 hours of making the final payment for your trip.

For the travel medical insurance plans shown above, preexisting conditions are covered for travelers younger than 70. However, coverage is capped based on your age and whether you have a primary health insurance policy.

• Some annual multi-trip plans are modestly priced.
• iTravelInsured Travel LX may offer optional cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason coverage, if eligible.

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

Travelex offers three single-trip plans: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. However, only the Travel Basic and Travel Select plans would be applicable for my trip to Turkey.

See Travelex's COVID-19 coverage statement for coronavirus-specific information.

Typically, Travelex won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 60 days of the coverage effective date. However, the Travel Select plan may offer a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, the insured traveler must meet all the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage purchased equals all prepaid, nonrefundable payments or deposits applicable to the trip at the time of purchase. Additionally, you must insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements added to the same trip within 15 days of payment or deposit.
• All insured individuals are medically able to travel when they pay the plan cost.
• The trip cost does not exceed the maximum trip cost limit under trip cancellation as shown in the schedule per person (only applicable to trip cancellation, interruption and delay).
• Travelex's Travel Select policy can cover trips lasting up to 364 days, which is longer than many single-trip policies.
• Neither Travelex policy requires receipts for trip and baggage delay expenses less than $25.
• For emergency evacuation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Travelex and have Travelex make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, both Travelex policies provide an option if you cannot contact Travelex: Travelex will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

Seven Corners offers a wide variety of policies. Here are the policies that are most applicable to travelers on a single international trip.

Seven Corners also offers many other types of travel insurance, including an annual multi-trip plan. You can choose coverage for trips of up to 30, 45 or 60 days when purchasing an annual multi-trip plan.

See Seven Corner's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Typically, Seven Corners won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition. However, the RoundTrip Choice plan offers a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, you must meet all of the following conditions:

• You buy this plan within 20 days of making your initial trip payment or deposit.
• You or your travel companion are medically able and not disabled from travel when you pay for this plan or upgrade your plan.
• You update the coverage to include the additional cost of subsequent travel arrangements within 15 days of paying your travel supplier for them.
• Seven Corners offers the ability to purchase optional sports and golf equipment coverage. If purchased, this extra insurance will reimburse you for the cost of renting sports or golf equipment if yours is lost, stolen, damaged or delayed by a common carrier for six or more hours. However, Seven Corners must authorize the expenses in advance.
• You can add cancel for any reason coverage or trip interruption for any reason coverage to RoundTrip plans. Although some other providers offer cancel for any reason coverage, trip interruption for any reason coverage is less common.
• Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice policy offers a political or security evacuation benefit that will transport you to the nearest safe place or your residence under specific conditions. You can also add optional event ticket registration fee protection to the RoundTrip Choice policy.

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

World Nomads is popular with younger, active travelers because of its flexibility and adventure-activities coverage on the Explorer plan. Unlike many policies offered by other providers, you don't need to estimate prepaid costs when purchasing the insurance to have access to trip interruption and cancellation insurance.

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

World Nomads has a page dedicated to coronavirus coverage , so be sure to view it before buying a policy.

World Nomads won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition (except emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains) that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. Unlike many other providers, World Nomads doesn't offer a waiver.

• World Nomads' policies cover more adventure sports than most providers, so activities such as bungee jumping are included. The Explorer policy covers almost any adventure sport, including skydiving, stunt flying and caving. So, if you partake in adventure sports while traveling, the Explorer policy may be a good fit.
• World Nomads' policies provide nonmedical evacuation coverage for transportation expenses if there is civil or political unrest in the country you are visiting. The coverage may also transport you home if there is an eligible natural disaster or a government expels you.

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

This guide details the policies of eight providers with the information available at the time of publication. There are many options when it comes to travel insurance, though. To compare different policies quickly, you can use a travel insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to search. Just note that these search engines won't show every policy and every provider, and you should still research the provided policies to ensure the coverage fits your trip and needs.

You can also purchase a plan through various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA or Costco. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so if you are a member of any of these associations, you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for your trip.

Related: Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Is travel insurance worth getting?

Whether you should purchase travel insurance is a personal decision. Suppose you use a credit card that provides travel insurance for most of your expenses and have medical insurance that provides adequate coverage abroad. In that case, you may be covered enough on most trips to forgo purchasing travel insurance.

However, suppose your medical insurance won't cover you at your destination and you can't comfortably cover a sizable medical evacuation bill or last-minute flight home . In that case, you should consider purchasing travel insurance. If you travel frequently, buying an annual multi-trip policy may be worth it.

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

There are various aspects to keep in mind in the age of COVID-19. Consider booking travel plans that are fully refundable or have modest change or cancellation fees so you don't need to worry about whether your policy will cover trip cancellation. This is important since many standard comprehensive insurance policies won't reimburse your insured expenses in the event of cancellation if it's related to the fear of traveling due to COVID-19.

However, if you book a nonrefundable trip and want to maintain the ability to get reimbursed (up to 75% of your insured costs) if you choose to cancel, you should consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance policy and then adding optional cancel for any reason protection. Just note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

Providers will often require CFAR purchasers insure the entire dollar amount of their travels to receive the coverage. Also, many CFAR policies mandate that you must cancel your plans and notify all travel suppliers at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

Likewise, if your primary health insurance won't cover you while on your trip, it's essential to consider whether medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment are covered. You may also want to consider a MedJet medical transport membership if your trip is to a covered destination for coronavirus-related evacuation.

Ultimately, the best pandemic travel insurance policy will depend on your trip details, travel concerns and your willingness to self-insure. Just be sure to thoroughly read and understand any terms or exclusions before purchasing.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or rely on the protections offered by select credit cards, you may have access to the following types of coverage:

• Baggage delay protection may reimburse for essential items and clothing when a common carrier (such as an airline) fails to deliver your checked bag within a set time of your arrival at a destination. Typically, you may be reimbursed up to a particular amount per incident or per day.
• Lost/damaged baggage protection may provide reimbursement to replace lost or damaged luggage and items inside that luggage. However, valuables and electronics usually have a relatively low maximum benefit.
• Trip delay reimbursement may provide reimbursement for necessary items, food, lodging and sometimes transportation when you're delayed for a substantial time while traveling on a common carrier such as an airline. This insurance may be beneficial if weather issues (or other covered reasons for which the airline usually won't provide compensation) delay you.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection may provide reimbursement if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as a death in your family or jury duty.
• Medical evacuation insurance can arrange and pay for medical evacuation if deemed necessary by the insurance provider and a medical professional. This coverage can be particularly valuable if you're traveling to a region with subpar medical facilities.
• Travel accident insurance may provide a payment to you or your beneficiary in the case of your death or dismemberment.
• Emergency medical insurance may provide payment or reimburse you if you must seek medical care while traveling. Some plans only cover emergency medical care, but some also cover other types of medical care. You may need to pay a deductible or copay.
• Rental car coverage may provide a collision damage waiver when renting a car. This waiver may reimburse for collision damage or theft up to a set amount. Some policies also cover loss-of-use charges assessed by the rental company and towing charges to take the vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility. You generally need to decline the rental company's collision damage waiver or similar provision to be covered.

Should I buy travel health insurance?

If you purchase travel with credit cards that provide various trip protections, you may not see much need for additional travel insurance. However, you may still wonder whether you should buy travel medical insurance.

If your primary health insurance covers you on your trip, you may not need travel health insurance. Your domestic policy may not cover you outside the U.S., though, so it's worth calling the number on your health insurance card if you have coverage questions. If your primary health insurance wouldn't cover you, it's likely worth purchasing travel medical insurance. After all, as you can see above, travel medical insurance is often very modestly priced.

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance costs depend on various factors, including the provider, the type of coverage, your trip cost, your destination, your age, your residency and how many travelers you want to insure. That said, a standard travel insurance plan will generally set you back somewhere between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. However, this can get lower for more basic protections or become even higher if you include add-ons like cancel for any reason protection.

The best way to determine how much travel insurance will cost is to price out your trip with a few providers discussed in the guide. Or, visit an insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to quickly compare options across multiple providers.

When and how to get travel insurance

For the most robust selection of available travel insurance benefits — including time-sensitive add-ons like CFAR protection and waivers of preexisting conditions for eligible travelers — you should ideally purchase travel insurance on the same day you make your first payment toward your trip.

However, many plans may still offer a preexisting conditions waiver for those who qualify if you buy your travel insurance within 14 to 21 days of your first trip expense or deposit (this time frame may vary by provider). If you don't need a preexisting conditions waiver or aren't interested in CFAR coverage, you can purchase travel insurance once your departure date nears.

You must purchase coverage before it's needed. Some travel medical plans are available for purchase after you have departed, but comprehensive plans that include medical coverage must be purchased before departing.

Additionally, you can't buy any medical coverage once you require medical attention. The same applies to all travel insurance coverage. Once you recognize the need, it's too late to protect your trip.

Once you've shopped around and decided upon the best travel insurance plan for your trip, you should be able to complete your purchase online. You'll usually be able to download your insurance card and the complete policy shortly after the transaction is complete.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Bottom line

Not all travel insurance policies and providers are equal. Before buying a plan, read and understand the policy documents. By doing so, you can choose a plan that's appropriate for you and your trip — including the features that matter most to you.

For example, if you plan to go skiing or rock climbing, make sure the policy you buy doesn't contain exclusions for these activities. Likewise, if you're making two back-to-back trips during which you'll be returning home for a short time in between, be sure the plan doesn't terminate coverage at the end of your first trip.

If you're looking to cover a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition, select a policy with a preexisting condition waiver and fulfill the requirements for the waiver. After all, buying insurance won't help if your policy doesn't cover your losses.

Disclaimer : This information is provided by IMT Services, LLC ( InsureMyTrip.com ), a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 5119217) and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. IMT's services are only available in states where it is licensed to do business and the products provided through InsureMyTrip.com may not be available in all states. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not create or modify any insurance policy terms in any way. For more information, please visit www.insuremytrip.com .

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Travel Insurance

What is flight insurance?

Jennifer Simonson

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Jennifer Lobb

Updated 4:03 a.m. UTC Jan. 24, 2024

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• Flight insurance is coverage that protects the cost of your nonrefundable flight.
• You can buy flight insurance through an airline or from a third-party travel insurance company.
• You may not need flight insurance if you purchase a ticket that allows for free changes and cancellation, or if you already have coverage through your credit card.  

You’re finally ready to pull the trigger to buy airline tickets for the big vacation you’ve been planning. Before you can complete the purchase, you’re prompted to consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind. 

The website copy likely says that flight insurance is “highly recommended” to protect your trip against unexpected circumstances. But what exactly is flight insurance, what does it cover and how necessary is it? 

Compare the best travel insurance offers

Travel insured.

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Top-scoring plan

Worldwide Trip Protector

Covers COVID?

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$100,000/$1 million

Atlas Journey Preferred

Seven Corners

RoundTrip Basic

$500,000/$1 million

What is flight insurance? 

Basic flight insurance protects the cost of your flight should the unexpected occur . When purchasing an airline ticket, flight insurance is typically offered as an add-on directly from the airline or from third-party sites such as Expedia or Travelocity. You can also buy flight insurance directly from some travel insurance companies. 

Having flight insurance does not mean you can cancel your trip for any reason and expect a refund. Depending on the details of your policy, you may be able to recoup 100% of your pre-paid, non-refundable flight cost in the following situations:

• Severe weather or a natural disaster. 
• Equipment failure that causes a long tarmac delay.
• Unexpected flight delays that result in a missed connection.
• A mid-flight emergency that forces you to land at a different airport than originally planned. 
• Death of a family member or traveling companion. 
• Unexpected job loss before your trip.
• Unexpected illness or injury prior to departure.
• You are called for jury duty before your flight. 

Read the change and cancellation policies of the airline when considering if you need to buy flight insurance. Southwest Airlines’ consumer-friendly policies already include the ability to change or cancel a flight for any reason up until 10 minutes before the departure time. However, depending on the type of ticket you buy, you may get a flight credit when you cancel, rather than a refund. 

Know more about airfares: Airfares

What does flight insurance cover? 

Flight insurance typically covers you for unexpected events related to air travel. Policies range from offering straightforward refunds for airline tickets to coverage for lost or damaged luggage. 

Depending on your policy, flight insurance benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation coverage . If you need to cancel your trip for a reason listed in your policy, you can get reimbursed for all prepaid, nonrefundable flight expenses. 
• Trip delay. If you are stranded in transit due to a reason in your policy, you can be reimbursed for extra expenses you incur. This coverage usually begins after you have been delayed for a certain period of time, such as six hours, and has a daily maximum, such as $150. 
• Trip interruption. If you need to cut your trip short for a covered reason, your non-refundable trip costs and any additional transportation expenses — such as a last-minute one-way economy ticket home — could be covered. 
• Lost or damaged luggage. Some flight insurance plans include reimbursement for lost, stolen or damaged luggage. This is generally secondary insurance, so you would have to file a claim with the airline or your homeowners insurance first. 

If you want more comprehensive coverage, it can pay to shop around before buying the flight insurance offered through the airline’s website. Determine which benefits are important to you and compare policies and prices before buying. 

Related: Flight cancellations

How much is flight insurance? 

The cost of flight insurance varies depending on the plan you select, your total trip cost, your age and the length of your trip. But the cost will be low compared to the cost of the flight. For instance, flight insurance from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s Aircare plan might be $26 for a $1,000 trip. 

It’s worth noting, however, that the average cost of travel insurance is $61 for a $1,000 trip. Spending the extra money on a more comprehensive travel insurance plan could get you a great deal more in coverage while you’re traveling, including emergency medical, dental and medical evacuation. 

How does flight insurance work? 

When you’re buying an airline ticket you will often see an option to add trip insurance on the checkout page. Each airline uses a different flight insurance provider. For example, United offers a Travel Guard travel insurance plan through AIG Travel while Delta uses Allianz Global Assistance. 

Airlines and third-party travel companies can offer drastically different policies, so it is important to read the fine print before selecting a policy to purchase. 

Like Delta, American Airlines offers comprehensive trip insurance through Allianz Global Assistance. Allianz trip insurance pays if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip due to a reason listed in your policy, such as illness, injury or jury duty. 

Travel insurance from Allianz also includes emergency medical benefits, trip interruption coverage, reimbursement of necessary meals and accommodations if your flight is delayed for more than six hours for a covered reason and reimbursement for lost, damaged or stolen luggage during your trip.

Allegiant on the other hand offers basic flight insurance called Trip Flex. Trip Flex allows you to change your flight or postpone your trip without paying the $75 change fee. You can only make one itinerary modification. The modification can be made up to one hour prior to departure for airline ticket purchases and up to 72 hours prior to departure for air/hotel package purchases. Additional restrictions include holiday travel periods and flight promos or sales.

Know more about flight statistics: Flight statistics

Is flight insurance worth it?  

Flight insurance is not always worth the investment. If your trip includes other nonrefundable bookings, such as hotel stays, car rentals and excursions, you would be better off purchasing a standalone travel insurance policy to cover the entire trip. 

You may also be able to rely on your credit card for coverage. Some credit cards include trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, lost luggage insurance and trip delay reimbursement, if you pay for the trip using your card. This makes it possible to safeguard your flight without purchasing a separate flight insurance policy. Check your credit card benefits to determine if this coverage is available to you. 

If your flight is the only nonrefundable expense for your upcoming trip and you do not have a credit card that includes trip cancellation insurance, flight insurance may be worth it.

Flight insurance FAQs

It is best to buy flight insurance the same day you purchase your airline ticket, whether you buy it through the airline or directly from a travel insurance company. This ensures the cost of your ticket is covered and provides a longer coverage window for trip cancellation benefits.

Many travel insurance companies offer a free look period of 14 or 15 days, which allows you to review your policy and request a refund if you are not satisfied. This time period begins when you purchase the insurance policy and ends at a time determined by your travel insurance provider. 

For example, Allianz Global Assistance offers a 15-day review period in most states.

Most airlines allow you to cancel an airline ticket within the first 24 hours after purchase and get a full refund. After the first 24 hours, many airlines charge fees to cancel or change pre-existing airline reservations, depending on the type of ticket you purchase. 

Southwest Airlines is one of the only airlines to allow customers to cancel or change airline reservations without penalty, although refunds are only available for certain types of tickets. You may receive a flight credit rather than a refund, depending on the ticket type you purchase. 

Editor’s Note: This article contains updated information from previously published stories:

• Five-hour wait times, flight shopping and a rental car rush: Southwest cancellations send travelers scrambling
• Southwest Airlines flight woes continue: 1,000 Sunday cancellations … and counting

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Jennifer Simonson covers everything from business to the wine industry to international travel. Outdoor adventure, water parks and all things Texas are by far her favorite beats. Her work has appeared in Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Texas Monthly, Smithsonian Magazine, Fodor's, Lonely Planet, Slate and more. You can follow her on Instagram at @storiestoldwell.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

Jennifer Lobb is deputy editor at USA TODAY Blueprint and is an experienced insurance and personal finance writer. Jennifer served as an insurance staff writer and editor at U.S. News and World Report and deputy editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor. She also spent several years covering finance and insurance for various financial media sites, including LendingTree and Investopedia. For nearly a decade, she’s helped consumers make educated decisions about the products that protect their finances, families and homes.

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Allianz Travel Insurance Coverage Review — Is It Worth It?

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

Why purchase travel insurance, travel insurance and the covid-19 virus, types of travel insurance policies available with allianz, how to obtain a quote with allianz, additional travel insurance offered by allianz, how allianz compares, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

There are a lot of choices when it comes to travel insurance companies , so narrowing your selection to those that have a solid financial rating, offer products that provide good value, and receive high customer ratings should be baseline criteria.

Allianz Global Assistance company ( Allianz Travel) checks all of those boxes. Its parent company, Allianz SE, receives an A+ rating from A.M. Best (a leading insurance financial rating firm), and the company offers competitive individual trip and annual travel insurance products. It also serves over 45 million customers in the U.S. each year with 84% of those customers giving the company a 5-star rating.

Allianz has also been around a long time. In fact, the company was there to insure the Wright Brothers’ first flight and the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge — so you know you’re working with an established organization. You’ll also find that Allianz does business in more than 35 countries.

Let’s take a look specifically at Allianz Travel’s insurance products, show you how to obtain a quote, and give you some tips on purchasing and comparing travel insurance policies.

And while our focus is on Allianz Travel coverage, much of our information can apply to purchasing travel insurance in general.

Travel insurance can protect your trip investment with coverage for disruption due to unforeseen events such as severe weather, should you become ill, for illness in your family, missed connections, medical emergencies, and more.

Deciding whether to purchase travel insurance for your trip is an option each time you make a travel booking. The coverage is commonly offered by airlines, cruise companies, tour operators and other travel providers at the point of sale. If you travel infrequently and the cost is relatively low, you may just opt for the coverage during the booking process.

However, if you’re going to be taking several trips, you may be able to save money and receive better coverage if you compare with other travel insurance policies in the marketplace. Additionally, you’ll want to determine if it makes sense to purchase single insurance coverage for each trip or an annual all-trips-included policy.

Situations where it makes sense to purchase travel insurance include the following:

• You’re booking an expensive trip that includes a lot of non-refundable upfront expenses
• Your trip includes several travel providers (i.e. airlines, hotels, and tour operators)

While travel insurance is meant to cover unforeseen events, purchasing Cancel for Any Reason coverage may allow you to cancel your trip for any reason.

Bottom Line: If you’re uncomfortable with the amount of money you have at risk when you travel, securing travel insurance can provide immediate peace of mind . You’ll have solace in knowing that if you needed to cancel your travel plans due to a covered event or if your travel is disrupted, you’ll be able to recoup most, or all, of your investment.

Most travel insurance policies do not provide coverage for trip cancellation due to fear of the coronavirus pandemic . However, COVID-19 is an included illness on many travel insurance policies as it relates to certain coverages such as emergency medical care while traveling and canceling a trip if you become ill with the virus. You may also have coverage if a family member or travel companion contracts the virus and you must cancel your trip as a result.

The only way to cover trip cancellations due to fear of contracting COVID-19 is to purchase Cancel for Any Reason insurance. This coverage can be added to a comprehensive travel insurance policy (with limitations) and subsequently allows you to cancel your trip for any reason.

While Allianz does not offer Cancel for Any Reason insurance , it may cover COVID-19 related illness in the following circumstances:

• Emergency medical care while traveling
• Trip cancellation due to becoming ill with the virus

Allianz Epidemic Coverage Endorsement

Allianz recently announced that it is adding a new endorsement to select policies that will offer limited coverage for COVID-19 . Circumstances such as becoming ill with COVID-19 and having to cancel your trip, hospitalization, and trip delays due to such illness while traveling will have coverage.

Emergency transportation coverage has also been expanded to include COVID-19-related illness. Terms and conditions apply and the endorsement is not available on all policies Allianz offers.

You can find policies that offer Cancel for Any Reason insurance at TravelInsurance.com  and Aardy.com .

Bottom Line: Travel insurance policies normally do not cover canceling your trip because of fear you might get ill. However, Cancel for Any Reason insurance allows you to cancel a trip for any reason you determine is necessary. 

Allianz Travel offers 2 core types of travel insurance plans: single trip plans and multi-trip plans . Each plan allows you to select the level of coverage you want and subsequently, the level of premium you prefer to pay.

We’ve used criteria to obtain a quote for a traveler age 35, traveling for 1 week to Mexico on a trip costing $3,000 . All benefits are per person, per trip, unless otherwise noted.

OneTrip Plans — For Affordability and Select Coverages

The single trip option allows you to select from a Basic, Prime, or Premier plan. Premiums vary by plan and coverage levels.  For the example we selected, the premiums ranged from  $116 for the Basic to $192 for the Premier pla n .

OneTrip Basic Plan — the Most Affordable Plan

The OneTrip Basic plan offers basic trip protection at an affordable price.

OneTrip Prime Plan — the Most Popular Plan

Need more coverage but still want your travel insurance protection to be affordable? The OneTrip Prime plan offers higher coverage limits at a reasonable cost.

The following are the maximum coverage limits for OneTrip plans. These coverages can be found under the OneTrip Premier Plan:

• Trip Cancellation —  up to $100,000 reimbursement for prepaid non-refundable expenses; pre-existing medical conditions included
• Trip Interruption —  up to $150,000 reimburses for remaining non-recoverable expenses and increased cost of return transport due to trip interruption as the result of a covered event; pre-existing medical conditions included
• Emergency Medical — up to $25,000
• Emergency Medical Transportation — up to $500,000 for transportation to the nearest medical facility
• Baggage Loss/Damage — up to $1,000 for theft, loss, or damage
• Baggage Delay —  up to $300 for delays 12 hours or more
• Trip Delay — up to $800 ($200/day for 4 days) for delays of 6 hours or more, for eligible expenses; an option to receive $100/day with no receipts required is also available
• Change Fee Coverage — $500
• Loyalty Program Re-deposit Fee Coverage — $500, covers re-deposit of points/miles due to covered trip cancellation
• 24 Hour Hotline Assistance
• Optional coverages include pre-existing medical coverage, rental car coverage, and required to work coverage — restrictions apply

Also worth noting is that kids age 17 and under are covered at no additional charge when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

Bottom Line: Allianz offers several levels of single-trip travel insurance plans that can fit every budget and level of coverage needed. 

AllTrips Annual Plans — Cover All of Your Trips for a 12-Month Period

If you’re a frequent traveler and want to ensure all of your trips are covered without having to purchase individual travel insurance policies, one of the AllTrips plans might be an appropriate choice. All of the trips you book within the 12-month policy period are covered automatically.

Coverage limits are per person, per trip, but more than 1 person can be included in the policy. Children 17 and under are covered at no additional charge when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

The AllTrips Executive plan is the most comprehensive policy and includes the maximum coverage limits listed below . AllTrips Prime and AllTrips Basic have less coverage than the Executive plan but may still be appropriate for your situation.

For example, the AllTips Basic plan does not include trip cancellation/interruption insurance but has emergency medical, evacuation, trip delay, baggage insurance, and car rental insurance.

• Trip Cancellation —  up to $10,000 reimbursement for prepaid non-refundable expenses
• Trip Interruption —  up to $10,000 reimburses for remaining non-recoverable expenses and increased cost of return transport due to trip interruption as the result of a covered event
• Emergency Medical — up to$50,000
• Emergency Medical Transportation — up to $250,000 for transportation to the nearest medical facility
• Baggage Loss/Damage —  up to $1,000 for theft, loss, or damage
• Baggage Delay — up to $1,000 for delays 12 hours or more
• Trip Delay —  up to $200 per day for eligible expenses, up to $1,600 in coverage , for delays of 6 hours or more
• Rental Car Damage and Theft — up to $45,000
• Business Equipment Coverage — up to $1,000
• Change Fee Coverage — up to $500
• Loyalty Program Redeposit Fee — up to $500
• Travel Accident Insurance — up to $50,000
• Concierge Services
• Optional Pre-Existing Medical Coverage — restrictions apply

Bottom Line: Allianz’s AllTrips 12-month plans offer affordable options to cover every trip you have booked or have yet to book within a 12-month period. 

Travel insurance is one of the easiest policies for which to obtain a quote and subsequently purchase a policy. Unlike auto or home insurance, you simply input some basic information about your trip, your age, where you reside, and your quote is instant.

You can then read through the coverages, select a policy that fits, and hit the purchase button. There is also no risk as you’ll have a free-look period where you can review the policy and decide whether to keep it or not.

If not, you can get a full refund. This period can be 10-14 days after purchase , depending on your plan and state regulations.

In addition to the travel insurance packages offered by Allianz, you can purchase these additional plans and coverages available for single trips:

OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan

If trip interruption/cancellation is not important to you, you’ll find this plan with emergency medical, baggage insurance , emergency transport, travel accident coverage , and trip delay an affordable alternative.

OneTrip Cancellation Plus Plan

If you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason or your trip is interrupted for a covered event, you’ll have coverage. Trip delay and 24-hour assistance are included.

Rental Car Damage Protector

For $9 per day, receive rental car damage/theft coverage, rental car trip interruption protection, and baggage loss coverage.

Hot Tip: If trip cancellation/interruption or trip delay coverage comes with your credit card is adequate for your trip but you want additional medical coverage, the Allianz’s OneTrip Emergency Medical plan may be a viable and affordable supplement. 

When it comes to comparing travel insurance policies, it’s difficult to match apples to apples. Coverages vary widely, as well as terms and conditions. The lowest-priced policy is not always the best value for your needs. The flip side is possible, too. You may find a policy with plenty of coverage at a price that is more than you want to spend.

The best solution is when you find a balance between coverage and cost.

Here’s how Allianz’s travel insurance offerings compare with other travel insurance options.

Allianz vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

The coverage that comes with your credit card does not compare with a comprehensive travel insurance policy . In addition to the limited travel insurance coverage credit cards offer, if you do have a claim, you’ll have the potential hassle of dealing with a third-party claims administrator.

With that being said, the trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay insurance, and primary rental car insurance coverages found on several credit cards may be more than adequate for your trip.

Here are some of the best credit cards for travel insurance:

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

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When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck ® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck ® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

American Express Membership Rewards

The Amex Platinum card comes with trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance with a benefit of $10,000 per trip, up to a maximum of $20,000 per account per 12-month period.

Pay for your trip with your eligible card and you, your immediate family, and eligible traveling companions are covered for non-refundable expenses paid to the travel provider. Trip interruption coverage will also reimburse for additional travel expenses incurred due to a covered loss during your trip.

Trip delay coverage is also included on the Amex Platinum card for delays more than 6 hours. Reimbursement for incidentals and eligible incurred expenses is limited to $500 per trip with 2 claims allowed per 12-month period.

The Amex Platinum card also comes with emergency medical evacuation coverage .

For more information, check out our detailed guide to the travel insurance benefits offered by the Amex Platinum card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM , 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Pay for your trip with your eligible card for up to $10,000 in coverage per person, $20,000 per trip, and up to $40,000 in a 12-month period. You and your qualifying immediate family are covered.

You’ll also find primary car rental insurance on the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® .

To learn more about the travel insurance benefits on the Chase Sapphire Preferred card , you’ll want to review this detailed article.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel SM  immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass TM  Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

In addition to the same trip cancellation/interruption/delay coverage as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers up to $2,500 in emergency dental and medical coverage , emergency medical evacuation .

For more information check out this guide to all of the travel insurance benefits offered by the Sapphire Reserve.

Allianz vs. Other Travel Insurance Companies

Before purchasing any travel insurance policy, it’s wise to compare — fortunately that’s an easy task to execute. With comparison sites such as the ones listed here, you can compare as many as 100 travel insurance policies very quickly and find a policy that fits your situation and budget.

Keep in mind that insurance rates and coverages are highly regulated by the states . Insurance companies file a certain policy for a certain price with the state insurance commission, then the company is allowed to offer that policy, at that price, in that state.

For this reason, you won’t find the same policy offered at different prices. However, you could find a policy that is a better fit and possibly for less money by comparing several companies’ offerings.

Not all comparison sites include Allianz but when comparing similar policies, you’ll find that the company is competitively priced (a few companies lower and many companies higher). Individual results will vary based on your criteria.

Here are 4 websites that allow you to easily compare travel insurance policies.

• Insure My Trip — With over 60,000 customer reviews, 21 highly-rated travel insurance providers, and a best price guarantee, Insure My Trip makes it easy to find the right travel insurance policy.
• Travelinsurance.com — Compare major top-rated travel insurance company policies easily with this licensed online insurance search engine.
• SquareMouth — This popular travel insurance search engine offers easy comparisons of hundreds of policies offered by dozens of highly-rated insurance companies.
• Aardy — AardvarkCompare is a licensed travel insurance company with agents on staff to help you find the right travel insurance policy. Its website allows you to compare the policies of over 30 travel insurance providers.

There are also specialty companies such as World Nomads  that do a great job providing travel insurance for active individuals. If you’re into outdoor sports, adventure activities, or even more risky activities such as skydiving, you can find coverage through World Nomads.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking to purchase a travel insurance policy, you’ll want to compare companies and policies . First, look at companies with a strong financial rating, select a policy with coverages that are a priority to you, then select a premium you’re comfortable paying. 

Allianz vs. Point-of-Sale Travel Insurance and Protection

Allianz is actually one of the companies that provides the travel insurance you’re offered when you book a flight. An example is displayed in the above image of their offerings when you purchase a Delta Air Lines ticket.

Point-of-sale travel insurance, however, can run from inexpensive options that offer little coverage to expensive options that provide greater coverage but still have limitations, similar to stand-along travel insurance policies.

If you fly once or twice a year, the coverage is adequate for your needs, and the cost is reasonable, you may easily choose to go this route and purchase coverage at the point of sale. However, you may fare better by securing a separate travel insurance quote to compare coverage/cost.

Always read the fine print before purchasing any coverage to ensure you’re getting the coverage you expect. For example, one might assume by looking at this example that canceling the trip would be covered, when in reality the covered reasons are limited.

Bottom Line: Even for point-of-sale travel insurance to cover a single travel purchase, it’s good to get a comparison quote. Securing a quote may save you money while offering broader coverage that could cover your entire trip versus just a portion of it. 

Allianz is a solid, established, company offering a nice selection of packaged travel insurance products. Its website is easy to use with a quick quoting function and a simple purchase process. The site is also easy to understand as it is clearly written in plain language rather than legal verbiage.

One downside of Allianz is that the company does not sell Cancel for Any Reason Insurance . This is not an issue if you understand this up front and know that your policy does not allow you to cancel a trip for just any reason. After all, this is the case with most travel insurance — there are specific covered reasons for being able to cancel a trip and have coverage.

Cancel for Any Reason insurance can also result in a premium as much as 70% more than a standard policy, so many travelers may not consider it due to its cost.

If money is not a concern, you can purchase as much insurance as you’d like to have. However, in reality, purchasing travel insurance that works for you involves finding a balance between the coverage you want and the maximum premium you’re willing to pay.

Allianz is a respected company that offers a variety of policy choices with appropriate coverage for the majority of travelers at price points that fit most budgets.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is travel insurance worth it.

Yes, it can be worth it. If you are uncomfortable with the amount of money you would lose or be forced to pay in the event you had to cancel your trip or if you incurred disruption while traveling, you should purchase travel insurance.

An inexpensive trip or single flight may not warrant purchasing travel insurance, but insuring an expensive or complicated trip where you have a lot of non-refundable prepaid expenses at risk makes economic sense.

Travel insurance also provides the intangible benefit of peace of mind, knowing you are protected if you have to cancel due to a covered event or your trip is disrupted once in motion.

What is covered for trip cancellation?

There are limited covered reasons for receiving a benefit from trip cancellation insurance. The number 1 reason most travelers cancel their trips, according to InsureMyTrip.com , is the unforeseen illness of the traveler or of family members.

Fortunately, this is a covered reason for trip cancellation, although the level of coverage varies by company and policy.

Additional covered reasons can include death, hospitalization, or accident to you or covered family, legal obligations, your home becomes uninhabitable, the default of the travel provider, or natural disaster.

Deciding not to take a trip is not a covered reason for trip cancellation. Cancel for Any Reason insurance must be purchased in order to cover canceling a trip for a reason you personally deem necessary.

Does travel insurance cover flight cancellations?

Yes, travel insurance can cover flight cancellations in certain circumstances and depending on the policy purchased.

However, if an airline cancels your flight, whether prior to travel or during your travels, you would first contact the airline or the agency where you purchased your ticket for rebooking, a refund, or travel credit.

If you are not made whole, you could then look for coverage in your travel insurance policy.

If a flight is canceled due to weather during your travels, for example, and you are forced to incur unexpected expenses as a result, you could have coverage under a travel insurance policy if these expenses are not covered, or insufficiently covered, by the airline.

There could also be coverage under trip interruption/delay insurance if an airline cancels a flight and it causes you to miss ongoing travel which has been prepaid and is non-refundable.

Which is the best travel insurance company?

The best travel insurance company will have a high financial rating from a respected insurance industry rating company such as A.M. Best, offer a selection of coverages that matches your protection priorities, and does this at a price you’re willing to pay.

You should check reviews as well, keeping in mind that most consumers want to pay the least amount of money they can at the time of purchase and by doing so, coverage can be sacrificed. When there’s a claim, it’s natural to want the highest degree of coverage, although that may not have been the level purchased.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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Travel Insurance: Is It Worth It?

When Covid-19 hit, travel insurance didn’t help many travelers recover the cost of their canceled trips. What, then, were they paying for?

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By Elaine Glusac

Through the travel insurance broker InsureMyTrip.com, Suzanne Tow of New York City paid $270 to cover a $5,000 trip in May to Yosemite National Park. When the tour was canceled, Ms. Tow filed a claim with her insurer, and discovered, like so many other travelers, that travel insurance doesn’t cover cancellations because of a pandemic.

“They’re not risking a penny because they’re not paying a cent,” she said.

Americans spent nearly $3.8 billion on travel protection in 2018, the latest figure available, up about 41 percent from 2016, according to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association. Now, for those contemplating traveling in an increasingly uncertain world, the question of whether travel insurance is worth buying looms large. If insurance couldn’t help with that first wave of Covid-related travel cancellations, many irate travelers ask, what exactly were they paying for?

That’s a good question

“Travel insurance is a line of insurance we consistently hear problems about,” said Carmen Balber, the executive director of Consumer Watchdog, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group. “It’s much less regulated than other lines of insurance and tends to include exclusions for things consumers believe they’re covered for.”

Though the rules vary by state, most standard policies sold in the United States provide predeparture cancellation and trip interruption for unforeseen problems that are specifically named, including job loss, an illness that prevents you from traveling or cuts a trip short, a death in the family, a missed flight connection that, in turn, leads to a missed cruise departure, and so on.

But there is a long list of exclusions that render the insurance void, including terrorist attacks, war and claims associated with psychological disorders, or risky adventure sports like skydiving.

When a threat becomes “foreseen” —— for example, once a brewing storm becomes a named hurricane, or a global health threat becomes a named pandemic — it is uninsurable, unless you bought the policy before the threat is named.

If you contracted Covid-19, which prevented you from traveling, and held travel insurance before the date the viral infection became a known threat, the insurance would have covered your cancellation. Allianz Global Assistance , the largest travel insurance company, uses Jan. 22 as the known date. Travel Guard , another major player, uses March 11, the date the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a pandemic.

But for travelers who canceled in the current Covid-19 crisis, these insurance companies pointed to their list of things that were covered — a death in the family, job loss, etc. — which did not include pandemics.

“Travel insurance is pitched as something simple, take it or leave it, but it’s a complex insurance policy and there’s all sorts of limitations,” said Birny Birnbaum, the executive director of the Center for Economic Justice, a nonprofit that advocates for equal access to economic opportunity. “You have to read 20 or 30 pages of policy to find out and understand what’s covered.”

The accumulation of unredeemable policies in the pandemic suggested an exploitive practice to Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi. In March, the Illinois Democrat and chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy opened a congressional investigation into profiteering by travel insurance companies.

“The burden should be on the insurance company and the brokers to make clear what they’re selling,” said Brendan M. Bridgeland, the director of the Center for Insurance Research, a consumer advocacy organization. “Because that’s where people are getting the idea that, ‘I buy this I’m protected,’ and that simply is not the case if you read the policy.”

Sorry, that’s excluded

Maurizio Howard of Parker, Colo., thought he was covered for his daughter’s school trip to the Dominican Republic because he paid $165 for travel insurance in the $2,955 trip fee. When the March 14 trip was canceled because of the pandemic, the operator, EF Tours, offered three options: Move the dates to the following year; accept a voucher for future travel that the family could resell; or take a refund, minus $1,000 in expenses that it did not enumerate.

That was within EF Tour’s rights, as outlined in the fine print of its trip contract. The company “retains the right to cancel, modify, or delay the tour as a result of … public health issues or quarantine or threats of public health issues…” Canceled tours would trigger a voucher for future travel minus a $95 nonrefundable deposit and “any additional nonrefundable fees.”

Because Mr. Howard feared that filing an insurance claim might hurt his chances of persuading the company to refund the trip, I asked his travel insurer if it would reimburse him the $1,000. Crum & Forster, the parent company of United States Fire Insurance Company, which underwrote the policy, responded via email that the booking terms are “a direct contractual arrangement between EF and their customer and is not related to the Travel Protection Plan.” In other words, no.

The upshot: The conditions under which you can claim trip cancellation benefits are not only narrow, but they don’t cover penalty fees imposed by tour companies.

So, I should buy ‘cancel for any reason,’ right?

Travelers who wanted to cancel trips as Covid-19 gathered steam, but before travel was shut off by governments across the globe, were often told that their travel insurance did not cover canceling out of fear — unless they had purchased a cancel for any reason insurance upgrade, or C.F.A.R.

With C.F.A.R., a traveler is able to back out any time until a few days before departure and get some money back, usually 50 to 75 percent. It’s more expensive than regular travel insurance and must be purchased within a short window after making the initial trip deposit, usually less than 21 days. Additionally, the policy only covers cancellations up to two or three days before the trip.

Using Travel Guard’s website, I priced insurance on a $10,000 trip to France. Its basic policy costs about $500 to insure. But to get C.F.A.R., I would have to take the “preferred” policy at about $554. Adding the C.F.A.R. option offering 50 percent back, cost $128, for a total of $682. If I canceled because of the pandemic, or for any other reason, I would only get $5,000 back, half of the insured amount. Less the premium, that’s $4,318 net.

Cancel for any reason, Mr. Birnbaum said, “is treated as insurance, but it’s not really. Insurance is protection against some fortuitous event.” This policy, he said, covers a decision that’s in your control — such as changing your mind about taking a trip — not a risk that’s out of your control, like a car accident.

Mollie Fitzgerald, a travel adviser in Gibsonia, Pa., rarely recommends C.F.A.R. because it’s expensive — it can be 35 to 50 percent more than regular travel insurance, she said — and becomes more expensive the older you are, while only covering a maximum of 75 percent of the trip.

“Occasionally, a trial lawyer or someone like that whose calendar is fluid will request C.F.A.R., but it’s less than 1 percent of our insurance sales,” she wrote in an email.

But for many travelers, something is better than nothing. Edward Chan of Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif., spent $552 on an insurance policy with C.F.A.R. through Travel Insured International that offered 75 percent back on a $13,000 family cruise. During the pandemic, he canceled before the final payment was due and got his money back, except for a $1,000 nonrefundable fee.

Making an insurance claim through Travel Insured International, he got $750 of that fee back.

“So it was worth it for me to make the claim,” he wrote via Twitter, noting it took two hours on the phone with an agent two months after making the claim to get the refund approved.

The upshot: Cancel for any reason is a luxury option, that may be worth it to protect a large investment. But even then you only get a fraction back.

Airlines get into the game

Airlines also act as travel insurance brokers, offering coverage by third parties every time you buy a ticket online. During the transaction, most carriers have a mandatory yes or no question about buying insurance and then add the cost of the policy, if accepted, to the ticket price. Answering “yes,” Kathryn Franz of Marion, N.Y., bought two nonrefundable fares on Delta.com for a September trip to several national parks in Utah to celebrate her 70th birthday. She bought insurance on the $1,193 tickets with Allianz Global Assistance for $94.

Though the trip is still months away, Ms. Franz has decided she is not comfortable taking it. “Both my husband and I are in the ‘at risk’ demographic due to age, but he also has diminished lung capacity due to having been a smoker for so long,” she wrote in an email. “I feel it is prudent to cancel the trip to protect ourselves from risk.”

Checking her policy, she discovered she would not be covered if she canceled the flight because of the pandemic. (However, Delta later changed the couple’s itinerary, and offered a credit to use in future if they elected not to take the trip.)

“Concern over the potential to become ill is not a listed reason that would trigger coverage,” an Allianz spokesman, Daniel Durazo, wrote in an email.

Recently, American Airlines offered me a $25 insurance policy, marked “recommended,” on a $388 flight from Chicago to San Francisco. If I declined, I had to click: “No, I choose not to protect my $388.30 purchase and I understand by declining coverage I may be responsible for cancellation fees and delay expenses.”

The question injects anxiety into every ticket purchase, suggesting airlines have a financial interest in the sales. Allianz would not disclose the terms it has with the airlines. Several airlines didn’t respond to the inquiry.

“They thrust this product in front of you on every online ticket purchase,” said Shawn Guertin, of Barrington, R.I., who assumed the tickets he canceled on Hawaiian Airlines in March because of the coronavirus were covered by the insurance he bought at booking; Allianz denied the claim, writing in a letter, “Your plan excludes coverage for losses due to an epidemic.”

“Regardless of what the fine print says, at a minimum it’s a very deceptive business practice,” he said.

When buying any insurance, experts advise, ignore third parties — in this case, the airlines.

“You can purchase a policy for the same flight on your own and it will probably be cheaper,” Mr. Bridgeland said.

While I priced insurance on that San Francisco flight at Allianz for $20, it lacked some benefits in the $25 airline policy, making an exact comparison difficult.

In addition, most flight insurance includes benefits you often don’t need to pay for. In the case of lost, damaged or delayed baggage, the U.S. Department of Transportation makes the airline responsible for reimbursement up to a maximum of $3,500 on a domestic flight, typically more than travel insurance stipulates. Additionally, if an airline cancels your flight or makes a significant schedule change, it owes you a refund regardless of insurance.

The upshot: Flight insurance, like travel insurance, is good under only a limited set of circumstances, such as job loss. Ignore the airline website hype.

If the trip is canceled, can I get my premium back?

Most travel insurance policies cover trip cancellation from the time of purchase to the day of departure for reasons like sickness or severe weather. They typically include a “free look” period after purchase, usually 10 to 15 days, during which time travelers can cancel for a full refund of the premium. After that, no dice.

When Royal Caribbean canceled Valerie Pedersen’s May cruise to Bermuda because of the pandemic, she was offered a refund. But Ms. Pedersen also wanted her $400 insurance premium back from Travel Guard insuring a trip that wasn’t to be.

Travel Guard offered Ms. Pedersen a rollover.

On April 13, the company wrote her that she was beyond the free-look stage that would trigger a refund of the premium. “It is our policy that all premium refund requests must be submitted within 15 days of the effective date of the policy, however, we are pleased to offer you a travel insurance credit voucher in the amount of $413.92,” it wrote.

“Pretty cheesy, I think, as I could use the actual cash now,” Ms. Pedersen said.

Offering rollovers has been the industry’s exception to its policy of no refunds after the free-look period. Decisions on how to handle policy refunds versus rollovers have varied in the pandemic. Allianz said it is allowing customers whose trips have been canceled because of Covid-19 by their travel operator — be it a cruise line, airline or tour company — to cancel their insurance and get a refund of the premium.

The upshot: Much depends on the policy, but the fact that insurance companies are reacting differently means it’s a good time to be the squeaky wheel and demand a refund.

So, who needs travel insurance?

In the pandemic, travelers learned they can insure themselves for unforeseeable but relatively routine disasters — like getting hurt in a car accident, needing emergency gall bladder surgery or losing a job — but not the ones that seemed like a sci-fi scenario two months ago.

One way to make sure your money is protected is to pay more for refundable airline tickets — as long as they’re not worth more than the fees to change them — and carefully read the fine print on tour, cruise and hotel cancellation and refund terms, as well as travel insurance policies.

“So many travel insurance policies are set up for consumers to lose,” said Ms. Balber of Consumer Watchdog, noting that policies including medical coverage abroad, where your own health insurance may not kick in, may be worthwhile. “But the devil is in the details and that is doubly true when it comes to travel insurance.”

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More From Forbes

Is travel insurance refundable here’s everything you need to know.

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Sometimes, travel insurance is refundable. Here's when you can get your money back.

Peter Hoagland always checks to see if his travel insurance is refundable. That's because anything can happen between the time you book your vacation and when you leave — and because travel insurance isn't always refundable.

During the pandemic, he discovered that the hard way. He had to cancel a trip and asked for his money back from the insurance company. It refused.

"Since then, I always read the fine print on the policy," he says.

The refundability of travel insurance has always been an open question. Some countries and U.S. states regulate refundability. Travel insurance companies put refundability details in the fine print of the policy. And, as Hoagland found out, there are always exceptions.

Like the pandemic, when refund policies were all over the map. Some insurance companies adhered to their published policies. Others offered a credit that could be reused within a year, which was minimally useful because the pandemic was still happening a year later. Others quietly gave their customers a refund.

Hoagland says he fought for his money. Eventually, he contacted a manager at his travel insurance company.

"That produced a quick result," he says. "I got my money back."

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But let's face it: Getting a refund for travel insurance can be difficult. There are times when insurance is always refundable because it's required by law. There are times when it's sometimes refundable. And there are times when it's almost never refundable. But even then, there may be a way to recover some — or all — of the value of your policy.

Getting a refund for travel insurance can be a challenge

If you have a travel insurance policy and would like to get a refund, it might be easier said than done, say experts.

"While travel insurance is regulated like auto and home insurance, it’s often less standardized," says Stuart Winchester, CEO of Marble, a digital wallet for your insurance. "So first off, it’s important to check the fine print of your specific policy. Don’t assume it’s like the last one you got."

Even when you have something in writing, a refund can require some serious negotiating skills.

"Getting a refund for travel insurance can be complicated and frustrating," says Peter Hamdy, the managing director of a tour operator in Auckland, New Zealand. He's asked for a refund on policies numerous times and says that despite what travel insurance companies may tell you, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to getting a refund on your policy.

"Some situations can warrant a refund," he says. "It depends on your policy."

What does a typical refundability clause look like? For example, the World Explorer Guardian from Insured Nomads notes that it's refundable only during the 10-day review period from the date of delivery or 15 days from the date of delivery if mailed, provided you have not already departed on your trip and you have not incurred any claimable losses during that time. If you depart on your trip before the expiration of the review period, the review period ends and the policy can't be refunded.

"We go a bit further with our World Explorer Travel Medical plans," notes Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads. "If no claims have been filed then we can refund the unused portion of the policy if you cut your trip short.”

When can you get a refund for travel insurance?

Here are the most common cases where travel insurance can be refunded:

• If you cancel during the "free look" period required by the government. Most states require what's called a "free look" period of anywhere from 10 to 14 days. "During this period, travelers can review the purchase and make sure it fits their needs," explains James Nuttall, general manager of Insubuy . "If it does not, they can cancel it for any reason and get a full refund, no questions asked, so long as you haven’t departed yet.
• If you cancel during the travel insurance company grace period. Many insurance companies also have a grace period for refunds (usually, they are the same as the "free look" although some grace periods can be longer). "If you’re outside your grace period, which typically lasts one to two weeks after signing, you’re contractually obliged to pay your premiums," says David Ciccarelli, CEO of the vacation rental site Lake . "Still, it doesn’t hurt to ask your company for a refund or alternative options if you’re outside your grace window. You might not get a yes, but it could lead to some cost savings or better solutions."
• When someone else cancels your trip. "For instance, if your cruise is canceled due to low river tide, you are not at fault and would typically receive a full refund or credit for a future sailing, thus eliminating the need for the travel insurance policy," explains Rhonda Abedsalam vice president of travel insurance for AXA Assistance US.
• If you die. Typically, the policy would be refunded to your next of kin. Generally, you can also ask for a refund if your travel companion dies before your trip.

Remember, it depends on where you buy your insurance

The refundability of your insurance can depend on where you purchased it. Commercial policies bought from a cruise or tour company are generally canceled and refunded if you cancel the trip far enough in advance of your departure date.

"The travel insurance cancellation provisions are generally tied to the cancellation provisions for the cruise or tour," explains Dan Skilken, president of TripInsurance.com . "After you have paid the last deposits on the cruise and are close enough to departure that they will not provide a refund on the cruise, they generally will also not provide a refund on the travel insurance. But if you cancel early enough to get all or most of your deposit back, you will also get your travel insurance premium refunded."

If you’ve purchased retail travel insurance from a third-party provider or comparison website, you can often get a refund if you can show receipts proving that you received a full refund of all trip deposits and have not had any cancellation penalties or taken any travel credits when you canceled your trip.

That's because retail travel insurance is sold for a specific traveler and for a specific trip. If you have proof of a complete refund and have not received travel credits, then you no longer have what's called an "insurable interest" in the trip. The insurance company must cancel and refund your premium in full, says Skilken.

Insider tip: If the insurance company refuses, just tell them you have proof that you no longer have an insurable interest in the trip. You have to have an insurable interest in a trip to own a travel insurance policy.

Your agent may be able to help you get a refund

You may also be able to lean on the agent who sold you the policy. For example, all policies on Squaremouth come with a money-back guarantee.

"The purpose of this benefit is to give travelers extra time to review their policy documentation to be sure it’s the best policy for their coverage needs," says spokeswoman Jenna Hummer. At Squaremouth, the money-back period typically lasts between 10 and 14 days, which is in line with the mandated "free look" period.

However, I have also seen agents negotiate with travel insurance companies for a more generous refund period in case of extenuating circumstances. There's no guarantee that you'll get it, but it's worth asking — and one reason to work with a third party.

Agents can also help you avoid this problem. Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency, notes that American Airlines Vacation Packages offers a predeparture protection insurance plan, which allows cancellation for any reason before the outbound departing flight time. Other restrictions apply, she adds.

"More flexibility will often cost you more," she says. "But having the flexibility is a great way to sleep well at night."

Can't get a refund? Look for other kinds of flexibility from your travel insurance company

Even if your travel insurance company says no to a refund, it doesn't necessarily mean you've lost the value of your policy.

"If a travel supplier changes or cancels your trip, you should be able to change your travel insurance policy to match the new dates of your trip or even cover a new trip, sometimes up to two years into the future," says Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA .

Pro tip: Be sure to change the dates of your travel insurance policy before the departure date of your current itinerary. You can do that online or by calling your agent. Once the policy's effective date has passed, making any changes or initiating a refund or credit becomes much more difficult.

Don't forget to do your due diligence

Bottom line: Travel insurance is refundable under certain circumstances. But knowing when can require research.

"It's important for consumers to carefully read their policy upon receipt to understand the specific terms offered by their insurance provider," says Robert Gallagher, president of the US Travel Insurance Association.

The more you know, the likelier you are to get the refund you want when your plans change.

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Reservations and tickets – FAQs

Book and manage your trip.

You can change or cancel your trip online in just a few steps.

Change your trip

• Find your trip using your confirmation code or log in to your AAdvantage ® account.
• Click 'Change trip' in the menu.
• Choose a new flight that works for you. You can change your departure or arrival airport, your departure or arrival date, or both.
• Review and confirm your changes.
• Check your email for a confirmation of your new flight.

Find your trip

Log in to your account

Important information

• Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed.*
• Travel must be completed within 1 year of the original ticket date.
• A difference in ticket price may apply.

*Changes for trips that begin in Europe are allowed with a fee (excludes Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania).

Cancel your trip

• Click 'Cancel trip' in the menu. You'll be prompted to confirm the cancellation.
• Click 'Cancel trip' to confirm.
• Check your email for your trip cancellation information.
• You have up to 24 hours from the time you first buy your ticket for a refund if you booked at least 2 days prior to departure.
• Keep the cancellation email if you’re issued a travel credit. It contains the ticket number and original confirmation code you’ll use to rebook a future flight.
• If you paid for seats or bags, they are non-refundable if you cancel your flight.

To check your travel credit balance, follow these steps:

AAdvantage® members

• Log in to your AAdvantage® account.
• Click ‘Travel credit’ in the account summary menu.
• View your available travel credit and number available.
• Click ‘View details’ for your travel credit balance.

Non-AAdvantage® members

Before you start, you’ll need your confirmation code (also known as a 'Record Locator') or 13-digit ticket number, which begins with '001'.

If you don't know your confirmation code or ticket number, check the email we sent you when you booked your trip, your cancellation email or your credit card statement. Keep in mind that there are separate ticket numbers for add-ons like seats, upgrades and bags.

• Go to 'Manage trips / Check-in' on the homepage.
• Select 'View travel credits'.
• Enter your last name and confirmation code or 13-digit credit / ticket number.
• Click the 'Find your trip' button.
• View your available travel credit and balance.
• Find your travel credit

When you’re ready to book a trip follow these steps.

• Find your travel credit or log in to your AAdvantage ® account.
• Copy your Trip Credit or Flight Credit ticket number.
• Search and choose a flight on aa.com or the American app.
• On the payment screen, choose the type of travel credit and follow the steps.

Keep in mind, travel credit can’t be used for extras like seats, upgrades or bags.

• Book a trip
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To find your ticket number, check the email we sent you when you booked your trip, your cancellation email, or your credit card statement.

Your ticket number is a unique 13-digit number that identifies your reservation. The first 3 digits of your ticket number are the airline code, which is always ‘001’ for American Airlines.

Example ticket number: 001234567890

When you book a trip on American, you’ll receive a unique 6-digit confirmation code made up of letters. It's also known as a record locator.

Example confirmation code: JCQNHD

You can find your confirmation code on your confirmation email or boarding pass. If you’re an AAdvantage® member, log in to your account and click 'Your trips' from the menu.

Use your confirmation code to:

• Manage your trip
• Check in for your flight
• Get your boarding pass and check bags
• Make changes to your flight

You can book a flight up to 2 hours before departure on aa.com or the American app.

If the flight leaves in less than 2 hours, please go to the ticket counter at the airport.

You can book a flight up to 331 days before departure on aa.com or the American app.

You can book up to 9 passengers in one reservation on aa.com or the American app. For groups of 10 or more, contact Group & Meeting Travel. They offer special fares and discounts for group travel.

Learn about Group & Meeting Travel

You will not pay an extra fee to change a reservation made by a travel agency or another website if you change it on aa.com. Once you make changes, any future changes will need to be made on aa.com or through American Reservations.

Learn about reservation service charges

Revenue tickets on partner airlines booked on aa.com or the American app are only available on request because they must be confirmed with the other airline. This can take 24 hours or more. Some airlines may also require you to reconfirm your reservation after booking it on aa.com.

Please check with the airline operating your flight for more information.

Same-day flight change and standby

Learn about same-day flight changes and standby

Same-day flight change allows you to confirm a seat on a different flight on your day of departure on any American Airlines or American Eagle ® flight where eligible seats are available. Your new flight:

• Must have the same departure and arrival airports
• Can only be confirmed within 24 hours of departure of the desired flight

You can change your trip on aa.com or at the airport.

If you still want to try for a different flight, same-day standby lets you stand by for an earlier American or American Eagle ® flight (with the same route on your day of departure). Unlike same-day flight change, same-day standby doesn’t guarantee a seat on a flight.

Same-day standby allows you to fly on an earlier American or American Eagle ® flight on your day of departure if seats are available. You can request to be added to the standby list on aa.com or at an airport kiosk. Same-day standby does not guarantee a seat on a flight.

If you’re standing by for an earlier flight on your departure day, you'll stay on your original flight until you're confirmed on the earlier flight.

You can guarantee a seat on a different flight if same-day flight change is available. If it’s not available, you may be able to stand by for an earlier flight with same-day standby.

The standby policy applies to travel within and between the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, the Caribbean or Canada on American or American Eagle ® .

Customers who receive complimentary confirmed same-day flight changes

Request same-day flight changes on aa.com or at the airport.

To stand by for an earlier flight, make your request on aa.com or at a kiosk.

Learn about holding your trip

In select markets you can hold your trip up to 24 hours for free if you're booking your trip 7 days or more before departure.

In select markets look for the “hold” option on the review and pay page when you book an American or codeshare flight on aa.com.

If you held your trip on aa.com, choose “Travel information” at the top of aa.com, then click “Your trips" on the right.

• If you're logged in – Select the trip and then choose “Pay for trip” to enter your credit card information.
• If you're not logged in – Go to “Manage trips / Check-in” and enter your confirmation code.

No. You may not hold multiple trips to one or more destinations or around the same date or time. We will cancel duplicate trips that are on hold.

No. Trips with an aa.com promotion code are "instant purchase" only.

Customers in Latin America and the Caribbean can hold reservations using express ticket service on aa.com/espanol. Call your local American Airlines Reservations to complete and pay for your ticket.

Learn about express ticket service

• See all payment options available
• Travel credit
• Products and programs FAQs

We accept most major credit and debit cards and a variety of other payment methods. Only one card can be used when you book on aa.com (but you can use multiple gift cards).

See all payment options

If you aren't an AAdvantage ® member, use the homepage dropdown menu to choose the country where your credit card was issued, as we might use local currency, applicable fares, and available space on flights from that specific country.

If you're an AAdvantage ® member using a credit card issued in the same country registered in your account profile, log in from the home page.

If you're an AAdvantage ® member using a credit card not issued in the same country as registered in your account profile, log in after choosing your flights.

Fares for countries not listed will be in USD.

• Brazil (BRL)
• Canada (CAD)
• Colombia (COP)
• Chile (CLP)
• Mexico (MXN)

Fly Now Payment Plan

Visit the Fly Now Payment Plan for information

You can use PayPal for all travel except award tickets on aa.com or the American Airlines app if you reside in the U.S. or the United Kingdom. PayPal charges a cross border fee to residents of other countries.

Learn more about paying with PayPal

In the U.S., PayPal can be combined with an American Airlines gift card or eVoucher.

You can get a refund for tickets bought with PayPal from our refunds site.

Request a refund Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Flight discount

• Check your American Airlines flight discount balance Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines
• AAdvantage ® flight discount terms & conditions
• Business Extra ® flight discount terms & conditions Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Visit aa.com to book travel on flights that originate in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) that are operated by American or American Eagle or any one world ® partner. You can also use your flight discount to travel on codeshares (flights with an American flight number that are operated by another airline).

We're sorry, we don't offer emergency or bereavement fares.

We do offer government or military fares in some markets.

Contact Reservations for more information

Wholly unrestricted fares are fully refundable and do not have advance purchase requirements. If you purchase a ticket that is an unrestricted fare, you can make changes to your flight with no change fee (based on seat availability). However, an additional collection of fare may apply.

Reservations placed on hold on aa.com will be guaranteed for 24 hours or until midnight the following day, whichever gives you more time. In the event that your reservation is canceled during that period due to advance booking requirements, please contact Reservations.

• Learn about holding your reservation on aa.com
• Contact Reservations

Trip insurance

Learn about trip insurance

Residents of the U.S., Canada and Mexico can buy trip insurance during the flight purchase on aa.com. Residents of the U.S. can also purchase trip insurance on Allianz Global Assistance’s site.

Allianz Global Assistance trip insurance Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Yes, you will receive a confirmation email that contains your trip insurance details.

If you’re a U.S. resident, you can also visit the Allianz Global Assistance site to get your policy. Residents outside the U.S. can contact the insurance provider directly:

• Canada - [email protected]
• Mexico - [email protected]

Allianz Global Assistance trip insurance for U.S. residents Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

It’s possible the confirmation email may be in your SPAM folder, please check for an email from these applicable addresses:

• U.S. - Allianz Global Assistance US [email protected]
• Canada - Allianz Global Assistance [email protected]
• Mexico - Allianz Travel Mexico [email protected]

U.S. residents may also visit the Allianz Global Assistance site or call 800-628-5404 for additional assistance.

Visit Allianz Global Assistance trip insurance Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Trip insurance products are sold by third-party insurance providers, not American, so you’ll receive a separate confirmation. All policy documentation will be sent directly to you from the insurance provider.

U.S. residents can modify or cancel a policy online by visiting the Allianz Global Assistance site to Manage Your Policy. Non-U.S. residents should contact the applicable trip insurance provider as cancellation policies vary by country of residence. You may incur additional costs for changes to your policy.

Visit Allianz Global Assistance trip insurance Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

No. Trip cancellation coverage will only refund prepaid, non-refundable payments if you have to cancel for an unexpected covered reason. Reasons may include a covered illness or injury for you, a family member or travel companion, jury duty, a traffic accident on the way to the airport and much more. Please see the Certificate of Insurance/policy for complete details. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

No. Please contact the applicable trip insurance provider as soon as possible to make any changes and/or cancellations to your trip insurance.

In many instances, credit cards and conventional insurance such as auto, homeowners and health do not cover prepaid or added expenses associated with changes, interruptions and cancellations to your travel plans, and filing a claim could increase your premium cost. Most U.S. health insurance benefits are also reduced when traveling out of network, and may not cover the cost for overseas health care. In addition, medical transportation back home could be costly. Trip insurance can help protect your trip investment and may cover gaps left by other plans. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply.

Learn about different seat options in the Main Cabin

When you book a flight operated by American, you'll see the seat map after you choose your flights.

Go to “My trips/check-in” from the homepage and enter your name and record. From there, you can choose seats. If seats are unavailable, check back later or you can change seats when you check in.

If you're unable to choose seats when you book, check back closer to departure or we'll assign you a seat when you check in.

American Airlines withholds some seats until the day of departure to allow our airport personnel to accommodate passenger needs. If you are unable to reserve a seat at the time of booking, you may get your seat when you check in for your flight.

Seats may become available closer to the day of departure; you can visit aa.com frequently to check the available seats for your flight.

American makes every effort to reseat passengers in the same seats. When this isn’t possible, we’ll attempt to seat you in a like seat. We appreciate your cooperation when special circumstances won’t allow us to reseat you in your original assigned seat.

Preferred seats are standard legroom seats that are more favorably located throughout the Main Cabin.

Preferred seats are complimentary for:

• AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Platinum and Gold members
• AirPass ticket customers when traveling on your AirPass
• one world ® Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby members and companions traveling on the same reservation
• Full-fare customers*
• Active U.S. military passengers traveling on a military fare
• AAdvantage AAnytime and Business Extra award ticket holders

*For travel ticketed in booking code Y on or after August 30, 2017, you'll no longer get complimentary Main Cabin Extra or Preferred seats. This includes AAnytime awards booked in Main Cabin.

Voluntary changes to paid seats are not refundable.

Learn more about refunds

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U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

The Best Travel Medical Insurance of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners

Buying travel insurance is a smart move for any type of trip, but you may not need a policy that covers everything under the sun. If you don't need coverage for trip cancellations or delays because you're relying on your travel credit card to offer these protections, for example, you may find you only need emergency medical coverage that works away from home.

Still, travel medical coverage varies widely based on included benefits, policy limits and more. If you're comparing travel insurance plans and hoping to find the best option for unexpected medical expenses, read on to learn which policies we recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term travel insurance usually describes a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for medical expenses as well as trip cancellations and interruptions, trip delays, lost baggage, and more. Meanwhile, travel medical insurance is coverage that focuses on paying for emergency medical expenses and other related care.

Travelers need international health insurance if they're visiting a place where their own health coverage will not apply. This typically includes all international trips away from home since U.S. health plans limit coverage to care required in the United States.

Note that if you don't have travel health insurance and you become sick or injured abroad, you'll be responsible for paying back any health care costs you incur.

Many travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses you incur during a covered trip. However, the included benefits of each policy can vary widely, and so can the policy limits that apply.

If you're looking for a travel insurance policy that offers sufficient protection for unexpected medical expenses, you'll typically want to choose a plan with at least $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical care and at least that much in protection for emergency medical evacuation and transportation.

However, higher limits can provide even more protection from overseas medical bills, which can become pricey depending on the type of care you need. As just one example, Allianz says the average cost of emergency medical evacuation can easily reach up to $200,000 or more depending on where you’re traveling.

Your U.S. health insurance policy almost never covers medical expenses incurred abroad. The same is true for most people on Medicare and especially Medicaid. If you want to ensure you have travel medical coverage that applies overseas, you should purchase a travel insurance plan with adequate limits for every trip. Read the U.S. News article on this topic for more information.

The cost of travel medical insurance can vary depending on the age of the travelers, the type of coverage purchased, the length of the trip and other factors. You can use a comparison site like TravelInsurance.com to explore different travel medical insurance plans and their cost.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Seven Corners: Best for Families
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• WorldTrips: Best Cost

Coverage for preexisting conditions is available as an add-on

Easy to purchase as needed for individual trips

Relatively low limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellations or trip interruption

• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage loss and damage
• Up to $600 in baggage delay insurance
• Up to $1,000 for travel delays
• Up to $10,000 in travel accident insurance
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Purchase comprehensive medical coverage worth up to $5 million

Coverage for families with up to 10 people

Low coverage amounts for trip interruption

Medical coverage options vary by age

• Up to $5 million in comprehensive medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency evacuation coverage
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for incidental trips to home country
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for terrorist activity
• Up to $500 in accidental dental emergency coverage
• Up to $100 per occurrence in coverage for emergency eye exams
• $50,000 in coverage for local burial or cremation
• 24/7 travel assistance
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment per traveler
• Up to $500 for loss of checked baggage
• Up to $5,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $100 per day for trip delays
• Up to $50,000 for personal liability

Qualify for international health insurance with no annual or lifetime caps

Use coverage within the U.S. with select providers

Deductible from $500 to $10,000 can apply

Doesn't come with any nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $25,000 for repatriation of mortal remains
• $50,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment

High limits for medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation

Covers multiple trips over a period of up to 364 days

Deductible of $250 required for each covered trip

Copays required for medical care received in the U.S.

• Up to $1,000,000 of maximum coverage
• Up to $1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $10,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day for travel delays
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19
• Ability to add coverage for your spouse and/or child(ren)
• Repatriation of remains coverage up to overall limit
• Up to $5,000 for local burial or cremation 
• $10,000 to $50,000 for common carrier accidental death

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

You might also be interested in:

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Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Yes, in These 3 Scenarios

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

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Despite the relaxation and excitement that a vacation can bring, traveling can be stressful. You have to get to the airport on time, deal with the crowds at security, and keep all of your belongings secure — all while preparing for the possibility of a trip interruption such as a canceled flight or trip delay.

Between the bustling environment of the airport and uncontrollable factors like weather, there are many places where you can run into obstacles along your journey.

That’s why providers like American Airlines provide the option to add travel insurance coverage to your purchase. And at first glance, travel insurance may seem like a sensible purchase to protect you from anything that goes wrong with your trip.

But do you need travel insurance? If so, is American Airlines’ travel insurance actually worth buying? The short answer is usually no. In fact, AA’s policy may specifically exclude the very event you’re concerned about. In this guide, we’ll cover the ins and out of travel insurance cover so that you can make an informed decision.

To ensure you're getting the best deal on travel insurance, compare multiple quptes. You can compare easily using our free search tool right now.

What Protection Does American Airlines’ Travel Insurance Cover?

Like other travel insurances, American Airlines’ travel insurance is sometimes advertised as if it is some necessity for every conscious consumer.

But before you click “purchase,” let’s look into what this policy really covers.

American Airlines’ travel insurance policy addresses a variety of scenarios that may alter your travel plans. These situations include:

• Circumstances impacting your travel – In the cases of illness, job loss, extreme weather, or other extenuating circumstances, travelers who purchase American Airlines travel insurance may receive financial coverage of changed plans or trip cancellation.
• Cancellations – If your flight is canceled, American Airlines travel insurance may reimburse some of your expenses.
• Lost luggage – A suitcase missing at baggage claim is a nightmare for any traveler. Travel insurance could potentially cover the cost of essential items you may need to purchase at your destination if your luggage is lost or delayed in transit.
• Injury or illness – If you sustain an injury or require medical attention during your trip, travel insurance can provide you with emergency medical and dental benefits in some cases.
• Damage to your rental car – Accidents can happen even when you’re on vacation, and it can be especially difficult to resolve legal and insurance matters when you get in an accident while driving a rented vehicle. American Airlines’ travel insurance could help you cover any damage to your rental car if your auto insurance policy only covers the vehicle you own. Keep in mind that, just as with regular auto insurance, exclusions apply.
• Theft – What happens if your rental car is stolen? American Airlines travel insurance can help you work through this stressful situation by providing theft coverage.

Airport employees are always doing their best to serve you, but long lines and complicated logistics can nonetheless make for a frustrating experience when problems arise.

American Airlines tries to encourage customers to purchase travel insurance by offering a streamlined customer service experience. In addition to these various areas of coverage, American Airlines also advertises the additional perk of “24/7 assistance hotline and concierge services” for customers who opt for travel insurance.

All of these offerings combine to depict a streamlined and protected travel experience.

But how accurate is this depiction, and is this travel protection worth the cost? Read on to dive deeper into the world of travel insurance writ large.

How Do I Know if a Travel Insurance Policy Is Worth It?

You’re not even legally allowed to drive without auto insurance, so does it follow that you should never be caught in the airport without travel insurance?

Not necessarily.

Sure, any number of scenarios could unfold and derail your travel plans. Insurance exists so you can stay protected in the event of these what-ifs—accidents, illnesses, and so on.

However, travel insurance policies aren’t always as beneficial to the customer as they may seem. Airlines take a large percentage of the profit from every insurance purchase, so it benefits them to market it to their customers as more essential than it is.

• With travel insurance, you may end up saving money in the case of flight cancellation or inclement weather.
• But consider your past travel history — most of the time, everything runs smoothly. You get where you’re going without spending money on insurance.
• Even if your journey does hit a roadblock or two, the policy may still not be your most economical option. When you dig deeper into the scenarios that travel insurance policies actually cover, you can expect to find many limitations and exclusions — so the coverage may not apply to your situation at all.

Exclusions, Explained

Are you worried about the possibility of extreme global circumstances throwing a wrench into your perfectly planned vacation?

While we live in an unpredictable world, it’s important to understand that travel insurance may specifically exclude the very situation you’ve been nervous about.

Exclusions in American Airlines’ travel insurance policy include:

• Natural disasters
• Pollution leading to grounded or delayed flights
• Nuclear and radioactive events
• Civil unrest
• Government bans on travel

While these circumstances may sound extreme, less extreme conditions such as standard rain or snow will usually not alter your travel plans to the point where travel insurance would prove beneficial.

Travel Insurance and Medical Care

Maybe you’re worried about your health delaying your plans or causing you trouble once you arrive at your destination.

American Airlines’ policy also names many exclusions on when they will provide health coverage, including:

• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Pregnancy, fertility treatments, and childbirth
• Mental health issues including self-harm
• Health issues accompanied by alcohol or drug use
• Issues stemming from training and competition in professional or amateur sports

Whether your condition is pre-existing or you start to feel sick after consuming a few too many airport martinis, there are many scenarios where your health needs will not be covered by travel insurance.

Additionally, even though many mental health disorders can lead to or cause physical ailments, travel insurance offers no coverage for them.

If you would like to account for potential health issues during travel, be sure to do your research to make sure your areas of concern are covered by the policy.

Travel Insurance in the COVID-19 Pandemic

We’ve already talked about one major exclusion — epidemics.

Of course, we’re continuing to live with the global results of a pandemic. The coronavirus outbreak has introduced a new level of precarity to the travel industry, with increased regulations and safety measures impacting flight schedules and airline ticket availability.

This uncertainty around travel may make travel insurance seem like a reasonable step to take. If your flight is canceled or rescheduled, you don’t want to be left in the dust.

However, American Airlines’ travel insurance does not offer protection against issues caused by the pandemic.

How do other policies stack up? Unfortunately, the Consumers Checkbook explains that “Most travel insurance policies specifically list epidemics and pandemics as general exclusions, which means if you buy one of these policies you aren't covered if you cancel or interrupt your trip due to an outbreak.”

You certainly want to handle travel with care and precision. However, travel insurance may not be the best way to do so.

Your best bet is to arrive at the airport early to give yourself ample time to sort out any issues. In addition, pay attention to safety protocols to protect your health and the health of your fellow travelers.

Broad Exclusions

American Airlines goes even further to shift the responsibility onto the individual and avoid covering losses.

They list the broad exclusion of “any loss, condition, or event that was known, foreseeable, intended, or expected when your certificate was purchased.”

Intent can be a hard thing to prove. Given the wording of these exclusions, it appears that American Airlines has broad discretion to avoid payouts on travel insurance.

A 2018 study on travel insurance by the office of Senator Edward Markey — aptly titled the Flyer Beware Report — reports, “The airlines and OTAs aggressively market these insurance policies as providing total trip protection, but travelers who purchase these insurance policies through airline or OTA websites may get much less coverage — and security — than they are led to believe.”

What Other Travel Insurance Options Do I Have?

Senator Markey’s study suggests that seeking out third-party travel insurance may be more advantageous than purchasing a policy directly from your air carrier.

Just because you want to stay protected while you travel doesn’t mean you need to buy the exact policy that is being pushed on you by your airline. Remember: you are in control of the insurance that you obtain. Despite what your airline tells you, there are other options out there.

How We Can Help You Stay Protected

The insurance market can be a tricky one to navigate. Different providers attempt to pull you in different directions and persuade you to buy their products. In many cases, they may be prioritizing their profits over your best interest.

Don’t fall victim to these business practices and end up with an expensive insurance policy you don’t need. We’re here to help you navigate the world of travel insurance — and all kinds of insurance! — bringing clarity to the chaos. We offer free comparative quotes , helping businesses and consumers make connections and find excellent matches for their needs and wants.

References:

• https://www.aa.com/i18n/plan-travel/extras/trip-insurance.jsp
• https://www.allianzworldwidepartners.com/api/certificates/disclosure?ProductID=001004474&State=CA

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About The Author: Alison Tobin

Feature Insurance Writer

Alison Tobin is a Feature Insurance Writer at Clearsurance. Her writing interests include “How to” guides across different insurance types as well as other educational pieces. Alison earned a BA in Communication and Media from Merrimack College in Massachusetts. She has been working in the insurance space for 4 years.

June 1, 2020

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Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

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Viral ‘courtesy’ letter american airlines gives flight attendants shows how little they make.

America’s cost of living crisis has stung new flight attendants, many of whom haven’t had an opportunity to renegotiate their contracts since the inflation spiral began several years ago.

An employment verification letter American Airlines gives to some newly hired flight attendants documenting their salary has been circulating on Reddit , drawing attention to their low wages.

The letter states that a new American Airlines flight attendant will have a “projected annual salary [of] $27,315 per year before incentives and taxes” and concludes, “Any courtesy you can provide would be appreciated.”

The union representing American Airlines workers, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), verified the authenticity of the letter, which is given to potential landlords or for other services where attendants need to verify their employment and income. The union represents 28,000 American Airlines flight attendants, and it is working on their first new contract in five years – a deal that stretches back before the pandemic and the inflation crisis.

American Airlines did not respond to CNN’s requests for comment.

Even as price increases are slowing down , the letter shows how, for some Americans, a little inflation relief isn’t nearly enough. The low wages for starting flight attendants – a job once seen as glitzy – underscores how many people are still struggling, despite what on paper looks like a strong economy and job market.

This salary is above the federal poverty line of $15,060 for a single-person household. But that’s a national level and doesn’t take into account regional price differences, including in major metro areas where the cost of living can be significantly higher.

In some states, such as Massachusetts, new flight attendants would qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly referred to as food stamps. For a single-person household, Massachusetts residents earning less than $30,120 a year are eligible for SNAP benefits.

The union says that flight attendants’ low salaries compared to top airline executives is a prime example of “corporate greed.”

New flight attendants at American Airlines start at $27,000 per year. Robert Isom, the CEO of American Airlines, earned $31.4 million last year — 1,162 times more than a new attendant.

“We have flight attendants who are sleeping in their cars,” APFA communications director Paul Hartshorn told CNN.

American Airlines flight attendants have not gotten a raise since 2019, and the union is escalating its push for a new contract to raise wages.

Flight attendants for United Airlines, Alaska Airlines and other carriers are also pushing for new contracts to raise wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for flight attendants in 2023 was $71,000.

While being a flight attendant is a full-time job, many flight attendants only get about 75 hours of hourly pay a month. For many flight attendants, hourly pay basically begins when the plane’s door closes. They do not get paid for the hours they need to be at the airport or on the plane during boarding and deplaning.

APFA is proposing a 33% pay increase to top out at $91 an hour during the first year of a new contract and increases of 5%, 4% and 4% for the remaining years of a four-year agreement. The union is also calling for full retroactive pay raises based on how much attendants flew during five years of negotiations.

Under federal law, flight attendants cannot go on strike without permission from the government. The law, which is known as the Railway Labor Act, requires union members at airlines, among other certain industries, to remain on the job until after federal mediators declare an impasse in talks.

But the union is calling on President Joe Biden and congressional leaders to urge the National Mediation Board to allow the union to pursue a potential strike. The National Mediation Board is a federal agency that oversees labor-management relations in the US railroad and airline industries.

“American Airlines is not going to come to the table with an economic proposal that meets our needs unless they have the threat of a strike,” Hartshorn said. “Management needs the threat of a strike to move in the direction we need them to.”

Flight attendants at Southwest Airlines last month ratified a new contract that includes pay raises totaling more than 33% over four years.

“We expect to be compensated along the lines of Southwest,” he said.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com

Six Travel Mistakes to Avoid

No travel medical insurance? Unnecessary luggage and hotel fees? Here are the biggest travel mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.

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Even the most seasoned tourists can make travel mistakes when planning a vacation. Some blunders can be minor infractions, but others can cost travelers a lot of money and heartache. 

But there are steps you can take to avoid travel mistakes. Here are six slip ups that travelers may make this year, plus tips on how to avoid them.

1. Overlooking travel medical insurance

Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and founder of the nonprofit Elliott Advocacy , says many people don’t consider purchasing travel medical insurance . “People often think nothing bad will happen before or on their vacation, but then they get injured overseas and need to go to the hospital, and the next thing they’re looking at is a $10,000 hospital bill.” Indeed, nearly one in four Americans report they’ve experienced a medical issue while traveling abroad, according to a 2023 survey sponsored by GeoBlue, an international health insurance company. 

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Unfortunately, most U.S. healthcare plans — including employer group plans, Medicare and Affordable Care Act plans — offer limited or no medical coverage outside the U.S. 

How to avoid: One solution is to purchase a travel medical insurance policy, a type of insurance that provides coverage for a range of medical emergencies while traveling abroad, from minor injuries to major events like heart attacks and strokes, to medical evacuation and emergency transport in the case of severe emergencies. 

The average travel medical insurance plan costs $89, according to Squaremouth , a travel insurance comparison website. Squaremouth advises international travelers to obtain a policy that provides a minimum of $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and at least $100,000 in medical evacuation coverage. 

Note: Some travel insurance policies include emergency medical coverage and medical evacuation coverage up to certain limits.

2. Getting hit with unnecessary luggage fees

You may have heard that a number of airlines — including American Airlines , Delta , and JetBlue Airways — recently raised their prices for checked bags. But one thing a lot of travelers aren’t aware of, Elliott says, is that some are now charging customers more if they check a bag at the airport versus paying to check a bag in advance. For instance, JetBlue customers flying within the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada can save up to $20 on their first two checked bags ($10 savings per bag) when they add them to their flight reservation at least 24 hours before departure.

How to avoid: Make sure to pay ahead of time for any bags that you plan to check.

3. Incurring hidden hotel fees

Wi-Fi fees, early check-in fees, gym fees—hotels today charge guests no shortage of extra fees and surcharges . It’s a widespread problem: In an April 2023 survey by Consumer Reports , nearly four out of 10 (37%) U.S. adults said they had experienced a hidden or unexpected hotel fee in the previous two years.

How to avoid: Many hotels offer to reduce or, in some cases, waive certain fees to guests who join their loyalty program, which is free in most cases. Also, sometimes simply asking an employee at check-in to waive certain fees could do the trick.

4. Not utilizing a key search feature on Airbnb

Like hotels, Airbnb rental property owners often tack on extra fees, such as cleaning fees, fees for additional guests beyond a certain number, and service fees. These additional costs can add hundreds of dollars to your bill.

How to avoid: Elliott praised Airbnb for introducing a feature in December 2022 that allows guests to view a stay’s total costs, before taxes, when searching for rental properties. But he says there’s a caveat: “If you’re in the U.S., you need to change a setting in order to see the full rate when you search for rentals.”

To enable the feature, click the slider on the upper right of the search page that says, “Display total before taxes.”

5. Paying full price for a rental car

First, the good news: “The rental vehicle shortage has improved,” Elliott says. That’s resulted in a stabilization of rates, with rental car prices recently averaging $42 a day, up only 3% from last year, according to a report from the travel search company Hopper. The bad news? Renting a car is still more expensive than it was before the pandemic, especially for travelers who pay full freight.

How to avoid: There are several ways you can avoid paying full price. Big-box stores such as Costco , BJ’s and Sam’s Club provide their members discounts on certain rental cars. AARP and AAA also offer their members discounted rates. ( AARP members save up to 30% on base rates at Avis and Budget Rent A Car; AAA members save up to 20% on Hertz rentals). In addition, a number of credit card companies offer certain cardholders rental car discounts when they book a vehicle from specific rental car companies.

You may also be able to nab a lower rate by prepaying when you book a reservation. And, some rental car companies offer limited-mileage plans at a lower cost, which could be a good option if you’re planning to take just a short trip.

Tip: See if your credit card offers rental car insurance before you pay for insurance from a rental car company.

6. Encountering sky-high hotel rates because of Taylor Swift’s European tour

When Taylor Swift performs a concert, sometimes tens of thousands of out-of-town fans descend on the city, causing hotel prices to spike. Consider: the median rate for a standard hotel room during an Eras Tour date in Europe this year is projected to jump by 44%, with average hotel room prices in Warsaw surging a staggering 154% during her tour date there, according to a recent study by Lighthouse , a travel and hospitality research company.

How to avoid: The simplest approach for Europe-bound travelers in 2024, Elliott says, is to avoid traveling to a destination during a Taylor Swift tour date in that city. “When Taylor Swift comes to town all of the hotels sell out, and it becomes very difficult to find a reasonably priced hotel,” he says.

Related Content

• 24 Best Travel Websites to Find Deals and Save You Money
• Five Ways to a Cheap Last-Minute Vacation
• Best Travel Rewards Cards May 2024

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Daniel Bortz is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Va. His work has been published by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Consumer Reports, Newsweek, and Money magazine, among others.  

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The Complete Guide to the American Airlines AAdvantage Program

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Table of Contents

American Airlines frequent flyer sign-up

How much are american airlines miles worth, american airlines vs. competitors, how to earn aadvantage miles, how to redeem aadvantage miles, american airlines change, delay and cancellation policies, american airlines partners, aadvantage program elite status, which american airlines fare class should i choose, credit cards that earn aadvantage miles, aadvantage, recapped.

Founded in 1930, American Airlines is one of America’s three “legacy” carriers and one of the most visible brands in aviation. The airline’s loyalty program is called AAdvantage.

American is the dominant carrier at its home airport, Dallas-Fort Worth, and also operates hubs in Charlotte, Chicago-O’Hare, Los Angeles, Miami, New York (LaGuardia and JFK), Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington-National. Today, the airline operates an average of 6,800 flights every day, serving more than 350 destinations across 50 countries.

In this handy guide, we'll introduce all the different ways you could earn and redeem AAdvantage miles. We will also discuss elite status and AA’s Oneworld and independent airline partners.

Is AAdvantage free? Yes. But before you can start earning miles with American Airlines, you’ll need to sign up for an AAdvantage frequent flyer account. You can register here .

Based on our most recent analysis, NerdWallet values American Airlines miles at 1.7 cents apiece, which is the highest value among its competitors . (Yes, it surprised us , too.)

To determine the value of reward miles, we compared cash prices and reward redemptions for economy round-trip routes across several destinations and dates.

We divided the cost of the cash ticket by the cost of the reward ticket to determine a “cent per mile” value for each flight, then averaged this value across several flights and dates.

» Learn more: Credit cards that earn AAdvantage miles

Value of American Airlines miles over time

The value of American Airlines miles has increased steadily over the last few years.

This is due in part to rising airfare costs, which drive the relative value of miles up, but also due to improvements in the overall value of the miles themselves.

» Learn more: Convert your American miles to dollars

American Airlines came in third place among overall airlines in NerdWallet’s most recent analysis of the best airlines .

Its rewards program, AAdvantage, also came in third place in a second analysis of the best airline loyalty programs .

Here's a closer look at how American competed across subcategories:

Fourth in rewards rate .

American offers the second-best basic economy ticket .

Fourth in operations .

Tied for third with United in elite status benefits .

Fourth in terms of lowest fees .

Fifth in in-flight experience .

Sixth in most pet-friendly airlines .

The most obvious way to earn AAdvantage miles is by flying on American or with one of its partner airlines. But there are actually dozens of ways to earn American Airlines AAdvantage miles , which include hotel stays, car rentals, vacations, cruises, dining, shopping portals , various promotions or simply by buying miles (though that last one is usually a bad idea).

Although they’re called “miles,” you earn them based on how much money you spend on tickets, not how far you fly.

» Learn more: Find the best airline credit card for you

In general, AAdvantage miles will expire if you go 18 months without earning or redeeming miles on American or one of its partner airlines. Members under age 21 are exempt from mileage expiration. Also, if you have an American Airlines-branded credit card, your miles will remain valid as long as you continue to use the card.

» Learn more: Do AA miles expire?

Earning AAdvantage miles when you fly

Earning on American: The number of miles you earn for a flight depends on how much you spend on the ticket (in base fare and carrier-imposed fees).

If you have AAdvantage elite status , you will earn additional bonus miles for your trip.

Note: You earn miles only on airfare and airline fees. Government-imposed taxes and fees do not earn miles.

Earning on other airlines: American’s partner airlines in the Oneworld alliance distribute frequent flyer miles based on which class your tickets are booked in.

The cheapest economy tickets may earn only 25% to 50% of flown miles, while premium economy, business class and first class tickets can earn 100% base miles and a cabin bonus between 10% and 50%.

However, not all routes or flights may qualify. If you buy a flight on a booking code not listed as eligible for awards, you will not earn any award miles for your flight. Also, some routes or affiliate airlines may not earn miles.

To better understand how many miles you could earn with American’s Oneworld partners, visit the American website .

Earning AAdvantage miles with a credit card

American Airlines offers co-branded credit cards through both Citi and Barclays.

NerdWallet's favorite credit card for the AAdvantage program is the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® . It gives you 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases.

You also get a great sign-up bonus to start: Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

The annual fee is $99 — but the checked bag benefit on this card can make up for it rather quickly. The first checked bag is free for you and up to four others traveling on your reservation. You also get preferred boarding, so you can get on the plane relatively early and find space for your carry-on.

» JUMP AHEAD to other credit cards that earn AAdvantage miles .

Earning AAdvantage miles through partners

Hotels: You can earn AAdvantage miles at most major hotel chains. In some cases, you earn 1 or 2 miles per dollar spent; in others, you earn a flat number of miles per stay. See partner hotels and earning rules.

Dining: Register a credit card with AAdvantage Dining , and every time you use that card at a participating restaurant, club or bar, you'll earn 1 to 5 miles per dollar spent. There are more than 11,000 participating locations.

Auto rentals: Several major car rental agencies, including Avis and Budget , offer an option to earn AAdvantage miles. See the rules here.

Fuel: Via a partnership with Shell's Fuel Rewards program , AAdvantage members earn 2 miles for every gallon of gas bought at Shell stations. Members also get 100 miles on their first fill-up after linking their AAdvantage account to Fuel Rewards.

Shopping: When you shop online through the AAdvantage eShopping mall, you earn miles for every dollar you spend at more than 950 retailers.

Vacations: When booking a flight and hotel through AA Vacations , you could earn extra miles.

Cruises: You could earn 3 miles per $1 (up to 30,000 AAdvantage miles) for booking a cruise through AA Cruises .

Buying AAdvantage miles

In most cases, we recommend you stay away from buying miles, as it's an expensive way to accrue them.

How much do AA miles cost? It depends on how many you buy. You have to buy at least 2,000 miles, and at that volume, the price is 3.76 cents per mile. If you buy at least 5,000 miles, you'll get a discount.

Even with any discounts, purchasing miles should be a last resort (e.g., only do this to top up your account for an award redemption or to keep miles from expiring).

» Learn more: The rare times it might make sense to buy AAdvantage miles

Once you’ve got all those miles, you’ll want to redeem American Airlines miles for maximum value. AAdvantage mile redemption options include award flights, upgrades, car rentals, hotel stays, vacations, Admirals Club airport lounge access and much more.

AAdvantage miles are redeemable for flights through American Airlines and its partners in the Oneworld alliance . In most cases, you can redeem by booking through American’s website. Some airlines do not show up on AA.com, and in those cases you need to call American Airlines and ask to waive the phone booking fee.

Award flight redemptions

American Airlines now has a fully dynamic award chart , with pricing varied based on demand. Even so, American has published an "award chart" showing what you can expect to pay by region and fare class, but there are no guarantees:

Bad redemption options

Using your AAdvantage miles to book a hotel with points yields a low value.

In one search for a hotel in Miami, the value of using the miles for a hotel room was around 0.8 cent per mile, which is below our 1.7 cents valuation, only a little more than half the value of using the miles for domestic travel. A better bet would be to use hotel points or rewards earned from a cash-back credit card for hotel bookings.

» Learn more: Plan your next AAdvantage miles redemption with our tool

American has loosened its change and cancellation policies , making it easier for flyers to revise their flights.

Change fees

The airline no longer charges change fees for most fares (except basic economy) on domestic flights, short-haul international flights and many long-haul international flights. However, you may still be on the hook for any fare differences if your new flight is more expensive.

For nonrefundable airfares, you get an American Airlines flight credit for unused or canceled tickets.

If you bought a basic economy fare, you will not be able to make changes to your itinerary.

For flights booked with miles, you’ll also be able to change or cancel your reservation without any fees.

AA flight delays

American offers actual refunds — no matter what type of fare you bought — on many flights delayed by more than four hours.

If your American Airlines flight is delayed , you can get your money back if you choose not to go through with the flight. If you wait it out, you might be able to get compensation for a hotel room if the new flight is the following day.

» Learn more: How American's flight delay compensation works

AA flight cancellations

If your American Airlines flight is canceled outright, American typically automatically books you on what it assumes is the next best available flight (though that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best for you).

Check the American Airlines app or call American Airlines reservations to make adjustments to the flight you actually want. And as is the case for delayed flights, you are entitled to a full refund for flights that are canceled if you opt not to take another on American Airlines.

» Learn more: How to get an American Airlines refund

American Airlines has dozens of partnerships with other airlines all around the world, opening opportunities to earn and redeem AAdvantage miles on non-American Airlines flights. Plus, if you hold American Airlines elite status, you can sometimes get similar elite status benefits on those partner airlines, too. 

Oneworld alliance members

American Airlines is a founding member of the Oneworld Alliance .

Alaska Airlines.

American Airlines.

British Airways.

Cathay Pacific.

Japan Airlines.

Malaysia Airlines.

Qatar Airways.

Royal Air Maroc.

Royal Jordanian.

Sri Lankan Airlines.

Other partner airlines

On airline partners outside the Oneworld alliance, your ability to earn or redeem miles is more limited. You may be able to earn miles but not redeem them, for example, or you may be able to redeem only for certain flights.

Other partner airlines include:

Air Tahiti Nui.

China Southern Airlines.

Etihad Airways.

Fiji Airways.

GOL Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines.

JetBlue Airways.

Silver Airways.

Although you can redeem miles for most of these partners on AA.com, you will have to call the airline to book some awards. Awards not bookable online include:

The flight award chart for partner airlines tells you how you can earn flights on carriers other than American for no cost.

» Learn more: Getting American award flights for less miles

Anyone can sign up for the AAdvantage program, but basic membership only comes with a frequent flyer number and an account where your points accumulate.

The real goodies come when you earn AAdvantage elite status, of which there are four levels.

AAdvantage Gold .

AAdvantage Platinum .

AAdvantage Platinum Pro .

AAdvantage Executive Platinum .

AAdvantage elite levels and benefits

For many, the best perk of AAdvantage elite status is the opportunity to get an American Airlines upgrade . Sure, you can pay in cash or miles to upgrade your flight to business or first class.

But, once you earn elite status with American, you’re eligible to receive unlimited upgrades for domestic, Caribbean and Central American flights. With Executive Platinum status, you can even get upgraded on award tickets.

Oneworld partners may also offer some benefits to American elite status members.

How to earn elite status in AAdvantage

Say goodbye to elite qualifying dollars, elite qualifying miles and elite qualifying segments. American AAdvantage members now earn status by flying, using an AAdvantage credit card or spending with an American Airlines partner. There is now only one status metric — Loyalty Points — and the earning system is really simple.

Each eligible mile earned equals 1 Loyalty Point. There are three ways to earn Loyalty Points:

Traveling on American Airlines, Oneworld or any other partner airline.

Making purchases on American Airlines AAdvantage credit cards.

Shopping, dining and spending money with American’s partners, including AAdvantage eShopping, AAdvantage Dining, SimplyMiles and more.

How many Loyalty Points do you need to earn status with American Airlines?

Since there are so many more ways to earn status (without even stepping foot on a plane), the number of points needed to reach the top status levels are high.

» Learn more: Guide to American Airlines elite status

You may also be able to earn AAdvantage elite status through a status match , which is where American will grant you elite status if you show proof of your elite status with a different airline or hotel.

For example, Hyatt and American offer reciprocal status to their elite members.

There are more than a half-dozen fare types you can pick from when booking on American Airlines, each with their own benefits. The more expensive the fare class, the earlier you'll get to board . Depending on the seat you pick, you may also be able to avoid American Airlines baggage fees .

The American Airlines fare classes are (in order from swankiest to stingiest) are:

Flagship First.

Flagship Business.

First class.

Business class.

Premium economy.

Main Cabin Extra.

Main cabin.

Basic economy.

American Airlines is unusual among U.S. airlines in that it has credit card agreements with two different issuers — a legacy of its merger with U.S. Airways. Cards that earn AAdvantage miles include:

on Citibank's application

$0 intro for the first year, then $99 .

Earn 15,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.

» Learn more: Is an American Airlines credit card worth it?

If you seek more flexibility in redeeming miles for award flights, consider applying for a more general travel credit card instead. A more general travel credit card differs from an airline card in that you can book flights with multiple carriers, rather than reaping the benefits of staying loyal to a single brand.

Only one American Airlines credit card, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® , will get you Admirals Club access .

The more high-end (or 'premium' ) the travel credit card, the more benefits you can enjoy, including airport lounge access or automatic elite status in certain programs. That said, a brand-specific airline card can net you benefits like waived baggage fees, which can have meaningful dollar value.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards

Deciding if a program is worth it depends on your home airport and where you’re looking to fly. American Airlines flies to 50 countries (150 through its Oneworld partners), providing ample opportunity for passengers to use its service. AAdvantage, which is the airline’s loyalty program, offers many opportunities for redeeming its miles for award flights. If American flies to your home airport and reaches the destinations you’d like to visit, it's a great airline to earn miles with.

To contact American Airlines by phone in the U.S., call 800-433-7300 or visit the website at aa.com . You can also reach American Airlines on Twitter at @americanair .

Award flights with American Airlines start at 7,500 AAdvantage miles for a one-way economy flight under 500 miles in the contiguous U.S. and Canada. Longer distance flights in the contiguous U.S. and Canada start at 12,500 miles.

Yes, it is free to join the American Airlines AAdvantage program. Head over to aa.com to register for an account. Doing so will allow you to earn AAdvantage miles when you fly on American Airlines and its Oneworld partners.

To contact American Airlines by phone in the U.S., call 800-433-7300 or visit the website at

. You can also reach American Airlines on Twitter at

@americanair

Yes, it is free to join the American Airlines AAdvantage program. Head over to aa.com to register for an account. Doing so will allow you to

earn AAdvantage miles

when you fly on American Airlines and its Oneworld partners.

We've covered all the basic details of the American Airlines AAdvantage program.

But if you still aren't sure whether a frequent flyer program is worth the effort, see our absolute beginner's guide to frequent flyer programs .

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

1x Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.

70,000 Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.