travel insurance going to europe

4 Best Travel Insurance for Europe in 2024

Home | Travel | Europe | 4 Best Travel Insurance for Europe in 2024

Getting European travel insurance is one of the main requirements for obtaining a Schengen visa, whether for traveling, studying, or working overseas.

However, if you don’t need a Schengen Visa , you may ask yourself, Do I need travel insurance for Europe ? Well, it’s always a good idea. As I mentioned in my guide to the best international travel insurance companies , you should buy coverage if you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected in any unforeseen circumstances.

4 Best travel insurance for Europe in 2024

Of course, not everyone needs the same kind of coverage, so in this article, I’m sharing the best travel insurance for Europe and Schengen travel insurance that meets all the visa requirements:

• Schengen visa travel insurance requirements
• Europe travel insurance cost & comparison
• Best travel insurance for Europe

What should European travel insurance cover?

Not to spoil the surprise, but Heymondo is the best option for Europe trip insurance and Schengen Area travel insurance . Heymondo offers comprehensive coverage at an affordable price, and it’s the only company that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to worry about filing a reimbursement claim.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Another great option, if you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind having a deductible, is SafetyWing . Just be aware that there is a $250 deductible per claim, and they don’t cover medical expenses upfront. You will need to pay out of your pocket and ask for reimbursement later, but it is the cheapest option by far.

I’ll give you a full review of other top travel insurance for Europe below .

Is travel insurance for Europe mandatory?

If you’re required to have a visa to enter the Schengen Area, you must have travel medical insurance for a Europe trip . Be aware that not all travelers need a Schengen visa, so check the requirements for different countries below.

If you’re a citizen of a country in the Schengen Area, you don’t need travel insurance for Europe , but it’s wise to have coverage for your trip .

What countries need a Schengen Visa to visit Europe?

Travelers from the following countries must purchase European travel insurance to obtain a Schengen visa and visit the Schengen Area:

Schengen visa insurance requirements

To obtain a Schengen visa, you must have Schengen Area travel insurance . That is, insurance that covers the Schengen Area and meets these requirements:

• At least $30,000 in coverage for medical emergencies and accidents : Healthcare and medical expenses in Europe aren’t cheap, so emergency medical coverage is a requirement. No matter where you travel in the Schengen Area, your insurance will cover the medical fees if you get sick or injured.
• Repatriation coverage in case of medical incidents or death : If you fall gravely ill in a remote area or require further medical attention for a serious injury, you may need to be transported back to your home country. This is an expensive service, so your insurance should include repatriation coverage. This way, you won’t have to pay big bucks for transportation fees.
• Coverage in all 26 Schengen Area countries for the entire duration of your trip : Even if you’re not planning to visit all 26 countries (which would be incredibly ambitious!), your insurance policy must cover all of them. The best Schengen travel insurance policies allow you to select “Europe” as your coverage area, so you don’t have to worry. I always recommend reading the fine print to ensure you don’t encounter any problems when applying for your Schengen visa.

What countries are in the Schengen Area?

The 26 countries that make up the Schengen Area are:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Of those countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are the only countries that don’t also belong to the European Union.

How much does European travel insurance cost?

Choosing the best travel health insurance for Europe is one of the most frequent doubts among tourists. We currently have a policy with Heymondo , and we’re very happy with it. The company has been super responsive and helpful whenever we’ve needed assistance. I love that they take care of medical payments for us upfront, so we don’t need to pay out of pocket and file a claim.

If you’re still unsure which European tourist insurance best suits you and your needs , look at the table below. I’ve compared the cost of European travel insurance from 4 different companies. To be as impartial as possible, I’ve simulated the prices for a 30-year-old American traveling to Spain for two weeks with a trip cost of $2,500.

*Price used for example

For this European travel insurance comparison , I chose the cheapest policies that cover the Schengen Area and meet all the requirements. While Heymondo isn’t the cheapest, it offers better coverage than the others, and it’s the only one that pays for medical expenses upfront.

Also, remember that these prices are just an example and can vary depending on your trip’s duration, your country of origin, destination, and other factors. However, no matter the cost, you want travel insurance, even for the cheapest places to visit in Europe .

Best Europe travel insurance

Again, each European travel insurance company has its advantages, so I’m sharing an overview of each option below to help you make the best choice.

1. Heymondo , the best travel insurance for Europe

Heymondo is the best holiday insurance for Europe , offering $200,000 in emergency medical coverage and no deductible. One of the main advantages of Heymondo insurance is the 24/7 customer support and medical chat . This way, you can quickly consult a doctor or get directions to the nearest hospital.

Another thing I like about Heymondo is that it takes care of everything, so you won’t have to pay a single bill out of pocket . No more filing claims and waiting for reimbursement! Just remember that for Heymondo to cover expenses upfront, you must contact them before going to the doctor. If you forget or don’t have time, don’t worry. Heymondo will refund your money after you send them the medical invoice.

Besides, it covers electronic equipment , something that most travel insurance doesn’t include. For us, that coverage is crucial since we always travel with two laptops and professional camera gear.

We’ve been using Heymondo’s annual travel insurance and have been delighted with the experience. We have had to use the customer support more than once, and the team has always been professional, efficient, and kind. If you choose this company for your European travel health insurance , you can save 5% with our Heymondo discount .

2. SafetyWing , a cheap European travel insurance

If you’re looking for a low-cost Schengen travel insurance policy, look into SafetyWing . It’s one of the cheapest travel insurance companies on the market, offering excellent coverage without a hefty price.

SafetyWing’s European travel health insurance includes extensive emergency medical coverage, evacuation and repatriation protection, and up to $5,000 in trip interruption benefits for added peace of mind.

However, while SafetyWing has some of the lowest prices on the market, remember that it’s more of a medical travel insurance , so its trip-related coverage is minimal.

Also, there is a $250 deductible, so you’ll have to pay $250 before the company covers your medical costs. If you don’t want to deal with a deductible and want the added benefit of having your expenses paid upfront, I recommend Heymondo .

3. Trawick International , the best Europe travel insurance for seniors

Trawick International is another option to consider, especially if you’re looking for a good travel insurance plan for seniors . Trawick is affordable and features great medical benefits, including coverage for pre-existing conditions. The company also offers decent protection for natural disasters and repatriation.

This company also has travel insurance with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) . So, if you add CFAR to your policy, you’ll get reimbursed for your flight and accommodation expenses if you call the trip off, regardless of the reason for your cancellation. However, there are specific terms and conditions, so I recommend reading the policy thoroughly.

It’s important to review the different Trawick policies since some pertain to European travel insurance while others are tailored to students or tourists coming to the USA. In our comparison, we looked at the Safe Travels Explorer plan, which includes decent trip cancellation and interruption coverage, but only a small amount of baggage loss protection.

Overall, you can get much more coverage for the same price or a bit more. For example, Heymondo offers $200,000 in emergency medical expenses compared to Trawick’s $50,000. Plus, Heymondo pays your medical expenses upfront.

4. Travelex , another good travel health insurance for Europe

Lastly, Travelex is dependable tourist insurance for Europe that meets all Schengen visa insurance requirements. Its Select plan is the more expensive option, but it includes extensive repatriation and evacuation coverage, as well as natural disaster protection.

You’ll also be covered for travel-related expenses like baggage loss/theft, trip cancellation/interruption, and trip delay. Travelex is also a travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions , making it a good choice if you want your policy to cover treatments and medication abroad for chronic diseases like diabetes.

On the other hand, the Select plan is the most expensive option of the policies we looked at, and the emergency medical expense coverage is very low. In comparison, Heymondo offers much better coverage for a lower price.

What should travel insurance for Europe cover?

When shopping around for travel medical insurance for Europe , make sure you’re looking for the best coverage. Below, you can see what the best European travel insurance should include:

Emergency medical expenses

Emergency medical coverage is the most basic and essential requirement for any European holiday insurance . Even the cheapest policies include this type of coverage. With emergency medical expenses protection, you’ll be covered for any visits, tests, treatments, and hospitalizations during the trip due to illness or injury.

However, chronic illnesses or sicknesses that existed before the start of the trip are excluded from this coverage. For example, the insurance won’t cover treatment for cancer, as that’s a chronic disease that must be treated in your country of origin. On the other hand, an emergency operation for appendicitis would be covered.

Emergency medical expenses, something that’s covered with European travel insurance

As for injuries and accidents, most policies don’t cover incidents that occur while practicing extreme sports or risky activities. In the case of Heymondo , some adventure sports are included in the Premium plan. For other insurers, there is the option to add this type of coverage to your policy for an extra fee. So, if you’re a daredevil and plan on participating in some extreme sports during your trip, I recommend getting a policy with Heymondo.

Evacuation & repatriation

Evacuation and repatriation coverage are other must-haves when buying insurance for a European trip . If you have to return to your home country due to a medical emergency or death abroad, this coverage will take care of the associated expenses. Moreover, if a family member back home gets seriously sick or dies, or there is an accident at your home, the costs will fall under this category.

Unexpected delays can happen while traveling, be it a flight delay, weather problems, or an issue with the airline. This is why many European travel insurance companies include trip delay coverage. This covers expenses like meals and accommodation if your trip is delayed several hours or more.

Trip cancellation & interruption

As for trip cancellation , it’s often not included in European travel insurance . You usually must take out a trip cancellation policy or add this coverage to your plan.

With trip cancellation protection, you’ll be covered if you have to cancel your trip for health, legal, or work reasons. The amount varies depending on your policy, but you could recover up to 100% of the money you invested in the trip. Of course, you must provide documentation justifying the cancellation.

If you want the option of canceling your trip for any reason and getting reimbursed, look into Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance . Many companies offer this coverage as an add-on.

Moreover, trip cancellation coverage is especially useful if you’re visiting multiple countries in Europe. An unexpected incident may come up in the middle of your trip, such as a family member getting sick or a natural disaster back home. Instead of losing all the money you paid for the rest of your journey, you can get reimbursed with European travel insurance with trip cancellation/interruption benefits.

Baggage loss, theft, or damage

It’s not uncommon for luggage to get lost, stolen, or damaged during travel. For this reason, I consider this type of coverage essential for any European travel insurance plan .

Be sure to check the monetary amount for this benefit since some insurers don’t offer as much protection as others. I also suggest keeping your most valuable and expensive items with you in a backpack or carry-on so you don’t risk losing them in your checked baggage.

If you can’t store your things in a hotel, consider using a luggage storage service once you’ve arrived at your destination. This way, you’re not a walking target for pickpockets!

Electronic equipment

If you’re bringing electronic equipment like a camera or laptop, be aware that these items aren’t typically covered under the baggage loss benefit. An exception is Heymondo , which includes electronic equipment protection in its policies.

For most other European travel insurance plans , you’ll have to get this coverage as an add-on for an extra fee.

Adventure sports

This is another benefit that’s often available as an add-on. If you know you’ll be participating in some extreme activities, adding this type of coverage to your policy is a good idea. Adventure sports include things like bungee jumping, skydiving, scuba diving, and white-water rafting.

Heymondo is one of the few European travel insurance companies that include adventure sports protection in its policies.

Search and rescue

Another insurance benefit is search and rescue coverage. This covers the cost of an organized search and rescue effort should you get lost or reported missing during your trip.

Natural disaster evacuation

Finally, natural disaster coverage will pay for the transportation costs if you need to return to your home country due to a natural disaster at your destination. Examples of natural disasters include earthquakes, floods, landslides, tornadoes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and wildfires.

Europe travel insurance with a discount

If you decide to get travel insurance for a Europe trip , remember that you can take advantage of our discount to save money on your policy.

In the case of Heymondo , you can get a cheaper European travel insurance policy for being a Capture the Atlas reader. Just click our link below to get a 5% discount on Heymondo insurance .

Also, be sure to read our guide on the best discounts for travel so you can save money on flights, hotels, rental cars, and more.

Is Europe travel insurance worth it?

Even if you aren’t required to get a Schengen visa (and thus European travel insurance ), getting coverage is still a good idea. We never travel without insurance, and I advise everyone to do the same. After all, you never know what could happen abroad, whether you get in an accident or fall ill.

Throughout the years, my friends and I have had many experiences that highlight the importance of having insurance.

For example, I was studying English in Ireland with my cousin when he had to have emergency surgery for appendicitis. Luckily, he had EU travel insurance, so the cost of his operation was covered. He would have been stuck paying thousands if he hadn’t had travel medical insurance for Europe .

Another time, I was taking a trip to Germany, and my luggage never arrived. I was stressed out about not having any clothes or toiletries, but fortunately, I had travel insurance, so the company covered the cost of all the clothes and necessities I had to repurchase.

While those two scenarios ended nicely, my family and I have had less-than-ideal situations that resulted from not having insurance coverage.

One of those was when I planned a trip to Ukraine years ago. I had to cancel it because of a family emergency, and since I didn’t have travel insurance for Europe , I lost all the money I had invested in flights and hotels.

Similarly, my mom didn’t bother to get insurance before traveling to London. Someone stole her bag in a pub, so she lost her cell phone, camera, and wallet (with her ID and credit cards). She could’ve been covered for these losses if she had purchased European holiday insurance . Unfortunately, she had to pay to replace everything herself.

As you can see from the examples above, all kinds of unexpected circumstances crop up while traveling. It’s always better to have the added security of trip insurance. Take it from me, and don’t learn your lesson the hard way!

Other things to plan for your trip to Europe

Once you get the best travel medical insurance for Europe , finish organizing your trip with these helpful tips:

• Get one of the best SIM cards for Europe to avoid paying for roaming while using internet in Europe . We always use the Holafly eSIM , and you can even purchase it if you’re already abroad.
• Get a travel credit card to avoid hefty fees when using foreign ATMs. There are even some great credit cards with no foreign transaction fees that you can take advantage of.
• Check the iVisa website to see if you need a Schengen visa for your trip. If you do, make sure you request it in advance so you have it in time for your trip.

Lastly, enjoy your trip to the fullest!

FAQs – Travel insurance for Europe

If you still have concerns about European trip insurance , these answers to commonly asked questions may help:

Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance for Europe is mandatory for citizens who are required to apply for a Schengen visa.

Do I need European travel insurance if I have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?

No, you don’t need European travel insurance if you have an EHIC.

Do I need Europe travel insurance for a Schengen Visa?

Yes, those applying for a Schengen visa must have European travel health insurance .

Which countries are required to have travel insurance to Europe?

Travelers who are residents and hold passports from the following countries must have travel insurance for Europe : Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burma/Myanmar, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Oman, Pakistan, Palestinian National Authority, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

What is the minimum medical coverage to get a tourist visa to Europe?

Individuals must have European travel insurance with a minimum of $30,000 in emergency medical coverage to get a tourist visa to Europe.

The best travel insurance for Europe should include emergency medical coverage, repatriation and evacuation, baggage protection, and trip delay protection. It’s also a good idea to include trip cancellation coverage in the policy.

What’s not covered by travel insurance for Europe?

Some European travel insurance plans don’t include trip cancellation benefits, but this may be available as an add-on. Other things that aren’t typically included are adventure sports, electronic equipment, and natural disasters.

What is the best travel insurance for Europe?

The best travel health insurance for Europe is Heymondo since it has an excellent price-to-coverage ratio and no deductible. Plus, it is the only company that pays your medical bills upfront, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a claim for reimbursement.

How much is travel insurance to Europe?

The cost of Europe travel insurance can range from $2/day to $7/day or more.

Is travel insurance for Europe worth it?

Yes, European travel insurance is absolutely worth it , whether it’s mandatory for you or not. In addition to emergency medical coverage, you’ll have baggage, trip delay, and repatriation benefits that can save you thousands of dollars.

What happens if I get sick or have an accident in Europe and I don’t have travel insurance?

If you need medical assistance during your trip, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any care you receive at the hospital or a doctor’s office. If you have a European Health Insurance Card, you can go to a public medical center. You’ll have to pay out of pocket, but you can file a claim for reimbursement once you return to your home country.

What should I do if I have travel insurance and get sick or have an accident in Europe?

If you get sick or injured while abroad, contact your insurer to find out which medical center or hospital to go to. You can go to the nearest public hospital or clinic if you have a European Health Insurance Card.

What is the age limit for getting travel insurance for Europe?

Some insurers have age limits on their policies, such as Heymondo and SafetyWing, which cover individuals up to 69 years old. Other companies have higher age limits or no limits at all.

Can I extend my travel insurance to Europe if I’m already traveling?

The ability to extend your coverage depends on the insurer. For example, SafetyWing policies automatically renew every 28 days until you select an end date. Heymondo allows you to take out a policy if you’re already traveling, but you’ll have to wait 72 hours after purchasing it for it to go into effect.

Does my travel insurance for Europe cover a flight canceled by the airline?

Generally, European travel insurance doesn’t cover flights that are canceled by the airline. If you want this type of coverage, look into Cancel For Any Reason insurance.

I hope this guide helps you find the best travel health insurance for Europe and that you feel better prepared for your trip. Remember, if you need a Schengen visa to enter the Schengen Area, you’ll need proof of insurance to get the visa.

However, even if you don’t need a Schengen visa, it’s still worth getting European travel insurance . It’s always safer to travel with insurance coverage. This way, you can enjoy your trip and have peace of mind knowing you won’t have to pay any medical bills and cancellation fees out of your own pocket.

Again, Heymondo is the best European holiday insurance , offering excellent coverage for a reasonable price and direct, upfront payments for medical expenses. If you decide to buy a policy, take advantage of our 5% Heymondo discount code below.

Stay safe, and have a wonderful time in Europe!

Ascen Aynat

14 replies on “ 4 Best Travel Insurance for Europe in 2024 ”

Is there a Schengen insurance that covers the UK on the same trip?

Hi Supinda, Yes, with the companies above, you can find European travel insurance plans that cover Schengen countries and the UK.

I wish to travel multiple trips to Europe 4-5 days duration

4-5 trips per year Mostly with my kids

Then I recommend you annual multi-trip travel insurance instead.

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

We are a family of four and applying for long term resident visa for Spain. We need health insurance for the visa. What do you recommend?

How long are you planning to stay in Spain. I usually recommend Heymondo, but if you’re staying for long, maybe it’s better to get a health insurance instead of a Travel Insurance,

Thanks, Ascen

Great information. Thank you so much for the information. Amazing services are there. i am very glad to see this blog. in the Schengen visa Itinerary also, providing good services like Flight Itinerary, Hotel Reservation and Travel Insurance are there.

hi Nigeria passport holder want to attend 15 days course in amsterdam Netherland base in Dubai UAE which travel insurance do you recommend for me thanks

I would try this one.

Let me know what you think.

We are a family of five traveling to Italy from the US. We are planning to do some hikes there. Which insurance do you recommend?

If you are going to have any kind of hiking or adventure sport I would go with insuremytrip standard for sure. It is the best insurance for Europe if you plan up to 2000m.

Thanks for this great post! I found all the info I need to decide which is the best travel insurance for my trip to Europe. I hope don’t have to use it though

I am glad to read you! Let me know if you have any question and safe travels!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Auto Insurance Best Car Insurance Cheapest Car Insurance Compare Car Insurance Quotes Best Car Insurance For Young Drivers Best Auto & Home Bundles Cheapest Cars To Insure
• Home Insurance Best Home Insurance Best Renters Insurance Cheapest Homeowners Insurance Types Of Homeowners Insurance
• Life Insurance Best Life Insurance Best Term Life Insurance Best Senior Life Insurance Best Whole Life Insurance Best No Exam Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance Best Pet Insurance Cheap Pet Insurance Pet Insurance Costs Compare Pet Insurance Quotes
• Travel Insurance Best Travel Insurance Cancel For Any Reason Travel Insurance Best Cruise Travel Insurance Best Senior Travel Insurance
• Health Insurance Best Health Insurance Plans Best Affordable Health Insurance Best Dental Insurance Best Vision Insurance Best Disability Insurance
• Credit Cards Best Credit Cards 2024 Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards Best Rewards Credit Cards Best Cash Back Credit Cards Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards Best 0% APR Credit Cards Best Business Credit Cards Best Credit Cards for Startups Best Credit Cards For Bad Credit Best Cards for Students without Credit
• Credit Card Reviews Chase Sapphire Preferred Wells Fargo Active Cash® Chase Sapphire Reserve Citi Double Cash Citi Diamond Preferred Chase Ink Business Unlimited American Express Blue Business Plus
• Credit Card by Issuer Best Chase Credit Cards Best American Express Credit Cards Best Bank of America Credit Cards Best Visa Credit Cards
• Credit Score Best Credit Monitoring Services Best Identity Theft Protection
• CDs Best CD Rates Best No Penalty CDs Best Jumbo CD Rates Best 3 Month CD Rates Best 6 Month CD Rates Best 9 Month CD Rates Best 1 Year CD Rates Best 2 Year CD Rates Best 5 Year CD Rates
• Checking Best High-Yield Checking Accounts Best Checking Accounts Best No Fee Checking Accounts Best Teen Checking Accounts Best Student Checking Accounts Best Joint Checking Accounts Best Business Checking Accounts Best Free Checking Accounts
• Savings Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Best Free No-Fee Savings Accounts Simple Savings Calculator Monthly Budget Calculator: 50/30/20
• Mortgages Best Mortgage Lenders Best Online Mortgage Lenders Current Mortgage Rates Best HELOC Rates Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders Best Home Equity Loan Lenders Best VA Mortgage Lenders Mortgage Refinance Rates Mortgage Interest Rate Forecast
• Personal Loans Best Personal Loans Best Debt Consolidation Loans Best Emergency Loans Best Home Improvement Loans Best Bad Credit Loans Best Installment Loans For Bad Credit Best Personal Loans For Fair Credit Best Low Interest Personal Loans
• Student Loans Best Student Loans Best Student Loan Refinance Best Student Loans for Bad or No Credit Best Low-Interest Student Loans
• Business Loans Best Business Loans Best Business Lines of Credit Apply For A Business Loan Business Loan vs. Business Line Of Credit What Is An SBA Loan?
• Investing Best Online Brokers Top 10 Cryptocurrencies Best Low-Risk Investments Best Cheap Stocks To Buy Now Best S&P 500 Index Funds Best Stocks For Beginners How To Make Money From Investing In Stocks
• Retirement Best Roth IRAs Best Gold IRAs Best Investments for a Roth IRA Best Bitcoin IRAs Protecting Your 401(k) In a Recession Types of IRAs Roth vs Traditional IRA How To Open A Roth IRA
• Business Formation Best LLC Services Best Registered Agent Services How To Start An LLC How To Start A Business
• Web Design & Hosting Best Website Builders Best E-commerce Platforms Best Domain Registrar
• HR & Payroll Best Payroll Software Best HR Software Best HRIS Systems Best Recruiting Software Best Applicant Tracking Systems
• Payment Processing Best Credit Card Processing Companies Best POS Systems Best Merchant Services Best Credit Card Readers How To Accept Credit Cards
• More Business Solutions Best VPNs Best VoIP Services Best Project Management Software Best CRM Software Best Accounting Software
• Debt relief Best debt management Best debt settlement Do you need a debt management plan? What is debt settlement? Debt consolidation vs. debt settlement Should you settle your debt or pay in full? How to negotiate a debt settlement on your own
• Debt collection Can a debt collector garnish my bank account or my wages? Can credit card companies garnish your wages? What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?
• Bankruptcy How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy? What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy? What is Chapter 13 bankruptcy? Can medical bankruptcy help with medical bills?
• More payoff strategies Tips to get rid of your debt in a year Don't make these mistakes when climbing out of debt How credit counseling can help you get out of debt What is the debt avalanche method? What is the debt snowball method?
• Manage Topics
• Investigations
• Visual Explainers
• Newsletters
• Abortion news
• Coronavirus
• Climate Change
• Vertical Storytelling
• Corrections Policy
• College Football
• High School Sports
• H.S. Sports Awards
• Sports Betting
• College Basketball (M)
• College Basketball (W)
• For The Win
• Sports Pulse
• Weekly Pulse
• Buy Tickets
• Sports Seriously
• Sports+ States
• Celebrities
• Entertainment This!
• Celebrity Deaths
• American Influencer Awards
• Women of the Century
• Problem Solved
• Personal Finance
• Small Business
• Consumer Recalls
• Video Games
• Product Reviews
• Destinations
• Airline News
• Experience America
• Today's Debate
• Suzette Hackney
• Policing the USA
• Meet the Editorial Board
• How to Submit Content
• Hidden Common Ground
• Race in America

Personal Loans

Best personal loans

Auto Insurance

Best car insurance

Best high-yield savings

CREDIT CARDS

Best credit cards

Advertiser Disclosure

Blueprint is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service focused on helping readers make smarter decisions. We receive compensation from the companies that advertise on Blueprint which may impact how and where products appear on this site. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Blueprint. Blueprint does not include all companies, products or offers that may be available to you within the market. A list of selected affiliate partners is available here .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance for Europe: Coverage and policies for 2024

Erica Lamberg

Heidi Gollub

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

Updated 9:30 a.m. UTC Nov. 27, 2023

• path]:fill-[#49619B]" alt="Facebook" width="18" height="18" viewBox="0 0 18 18" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">
• path]:fill-[#202020]" alt="Email" width="19" height="14" viewBox="0 0 19 14" fill="none" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

Getty Images

• A trip to Europe often requires hefty prepaid and nonrefundable deposits to secure flights, hotels and tours. Travel insurance protects these outlays if you cancel your trip for a covered reason.
• Many U.S. health insurance plans don’t provide coverage in foreign countries, making a travel insurance plan with medical expense benefits important for trips to Europe.
• The best travel insurance for Europe will package together different types of coverage, including trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption, travel medical, emergency medical evacuation and baggage insurance.   

Planning a trip to Europe is exciting, but can also be expensive. Your itinerary may include visits to several European countries, and you can quickly rack up prepaid and nonrefundable expenses for flights, hotels, excursions, tours and experiences. 

Travel insurance can give you peace of mind that you’ll be financially protected if things go wrong before or during your trip. But plans differ, so it’s important to pay attention to included coverages, limits and exclusions when choosing your insurance for travel to Europe. 

Do I need travel insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance is not required for entering Europe. “But it is a very important consideration for a number of reasons,” said Scott Adamski, spokesperson for AIG Travel.

In addition to protecting your trip deposits if you need to cancel, Adamski said an important reason to secure a travel insurance policy relates to health care coverage for U.S.-based travelers headed to Europe. 

“In a surprise to many, their U.S.-based health insurance policy may not provide coverage, or may provide limited coverage, when they’re traveling out of the country,” said Adamski. 

“Medicare also may not provide coverage outside the U.S. (for older Americans) and there may be restrictions/limitations on medical benefits when traveling abroad,” he said. “In short, it’s vital to review your existing health care coverage before traveling.”

To make sure you’re covered financially if things go awry before or during your European vacation, look for a travel insurance plan that includes travel medical benefits as well as coverage for trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption, emergency medical evacuation and baggage delay or loss. 

Featured Travel Insurance Offers

Travel insured.

Via Squaremouth’s website

Top-scoring plan

Worldwide Trip Protector

Covers COVID?

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$100,000/$1 million

Atlas Journey Preferred

Seven Corners

Via Squaremouth’s Website

RoundTrip Basic

Average cost for plan with CFAR

CFAR coverage

75% of trip cost

Trip cancellation insurance for travel to Europe

If you’ve booked a trip to Europe, you’re probably thinking, why would I cancel my dream vacation? 

“No one plans to cancel a trip, but sometimes there are circumstances beyond our control — you suffer an injury before your trip, circumstances at your job change or your flight is canceled due to severe weather at your destination,” said Shannon Lofdahl, spokesperson for Travelex Insurance Services. “Trip cancellation and interruption coverage reimburses you if your trip is canceled or interrupted for a covered reason,” she said.

In general, covered reasons for trip cancellation insurance benefits include:

• Death of an immediate family member or a travel companion.
• A serious illness or injury to you, a close relative or a travel companion.
• A sudden and serious family emergency.
• An unexpected job loss or layoff.
• Unplanned jury duty.
• Severe weather.
• Your travel supplier is going out of business.
• A national transportation strike.

So, if three days before your trip to Vienna, Austria, your husband has a heart attack, you can cancel your trip and receive 100% of any prepaid and nonrefundable trip outlays.

It’s important to note that not all reasons to cancel will be covered by your travel insurance policy. For example, if you see a rainy weather forecast in Barcelona or get nervous to travel to Paris because you learn about a rise in petty crimes there, these are not covered reasons.

If you want the highest level of flexibility to change your travel plans, consider adding “ cancel for any reason ” (CFAR) coverage.

CFAR is an upgrade to a basic travel insurance plan that may boost the price of your policy by about 50%, but will give you the latitude to cancel your trip for any reason as long as you cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. If you meet all the requirements of your plan, you can expect to be reimbursed for 75% — or 50%, depending on the plan — of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs.  

Trip delay insurance

Delays are an expected part of traveling these days, especially while traveling abroad, and that fact has emphasized the importance of trip delay coverage, said Lofdahl. “A short delay probably won’t cause you too much stress, but longer delays can mean missing connecting flights.”

Trip delay coverage can reimburse you for costs you incur as a result of a travel delay, as long as the delay was caused by a reason in your policy documents. Severe weather, airline maintenance issues or a security breach at an airport, for instance, are typical reasons covered by trip delay insurance.     

Most policies have a waiting period before your trip delay benefits begin, such as six or 12 hours. If you meet the criteria outlined in your travel insurance policy, you can expect to be reimbursed for a meal, hotel room, taxi fare and a few personal care items to tide you over for the delay, up to the limits in your plan.  

Be sure to hold onto your receipts as you will be asked to submit this documentation when you file a trip delay claim.

DOT rules : What you’re owed when your flight is canceled or delayed may be less than you think

Trip interruption in Europe

No one wants to end their trip early, especially when it’s a long-awaited European vacation, but unexpected issues can arise, said James Clark, spokesperson for Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site.

If there is an emergency back home that is covered by your travel insurance plan, such as a critically ill parent, or if you suffer an injury while traveling in Europe and need to cut your trip short, your policy’s trip interruption insurance can provide financial assistance. 

You can file a trip interruption claim to recover any prepaid, unused and nonrefundable trip costs you lose because of your unexpected early departure. Your benefits will also typically cover a last-minute one-way economy flight home, and transportation to the airport.

Keep in mind, however, not all reasons to end a trip early will be covered. For example, if you miss your new kitten or have a fight with your partner while in Budapest, and want to go home, these are not covered reasons. You will have to pay your own way home and can’t file a claim for losses.

Americans will have to get travel authorization to enter Europe

Currently, Americans don’t have to worry about getting a visa to travel around Europe. However, that will change in mid-2025. That’s when the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) goes into effect, requiring people traveling from visa-exempt countries like the United States to get authorization for travel to 30 European countries.

Once applications open up, you will be able to apply on the official ETIAS website or mobile app. You’ll need your passport information to apply, and it will cost 7 euros to process the application. For those who don’t get immediate approval, the decision process could take up to 30 days. 

Once approved, your ETIAS travel authorization will be attached to your passport. It will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first. 

A standard travel insurance policy won’t cover you if you don’t get your ETIAS travel authorization in time for your trip, or your ETIAS application is rejected. It will be important to apply for ETIAS early, in case there’s a delay or you need to appeal if you’re denied a visa.

If you have “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage you could cancel your trip if your visa doesn’t get approved in time, but you’d need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip to file a CFAR claim for reimbursement.

Travel medical insurance for Europe

Don’t assume your health insurance applies outside the United States. “Many [domestic health insurance] plans won’t cover you if you become ill or injured traveling in Europe or any other country outside the U.S., and, without travel protection, you would be responsible for all the medical expenses,” said Lofdahl with Travelex.

For instance, if you twist your ankle while touring in Rome, your travel insurance can cover the cost of seeing a doctor, getting X-rays, buying prescription medication and staying in the hospital if deemed necessary. Without this coverage, you are responsible for any medical expenses. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% and 10% of the total price of your trip. This can be worth it for the medical benefits alone when traveling in Europe.

Travel insurance plans also typically include travel assistance, which can help if you get sick or injured in Europe. “This benefit offers a range of 24/7 services while you’re traveling — from assistance finding a covered health care provider to helping with replacing lost or stolen passports,” said Lofdahl. These services can also assist with translation services.

Emergency medical evacuation

Depending on where in Europe you’ll be visiting, you might be far from a medical facility adequately equipped to treat severe illnesses and injuries. 

“For this reason, travelers with underlying medical conditions might wish to consider additional medical evacuation coverage for certain costs associated with transportation, to either the nearest recommended medical facility or back home,” said Adamski with AIG Travel.

Also, he explains, many countries in Europe — particularly in the mountainous regions — offer adventure sports for visitors. “In the warmer months, the outdoorsy types who aren’t biking might pursue mountain climbing, available through a wide range of treks and climbs for beginners and advanced climbers alike. In the winter, of course, ski enthusiasts from around the world visit a number of European countries for their access to great snow, luxurious accommodations and challenging runs,” Adamski said.

Unfortunately, accidents can happen when mountaineering, regardless of the time of year. Having a travel insurance plan can provide financial protection in the event of medical or evacuation losses, he said.

As an example, said Adamski, a policyholder might need to return to the U.S. after a skiing injury and may need accommodations such as a lay-flat seat or a row of seats to stretch out a broken leg. 

“A travel insurance provider, with on-staff doctors and medical coordinators, are invaluable in assisting with medical needs in foreign countries and coordinating with airlines to get injured travelers back home. Such arrangements are remarkably expensive, ranging from $20,000 easily into the six figures,” he explained.

Medical evacuation coverage could help cover these costs, and, in AIG Travel’s travel protection plans, said Adamski, this is complemented by access to an entire medical team dedicated to consulting with the local medical providers, working with you or your family to confirm what’s in your best interests as a patient and making the necessary arrangements to get you where you need to be.

When budgeting for a trip, even the most thorough planners rarely consider a contingency that includes a five- or six-figure emergency medical evacuation, said Adamski. “To be suddenly faced with a bill like that could be devastating. Also, the expertise of the medical staff that would be helping to coordinate such an evacuation could (literally) be a lifesaver,” he said.

Clark with Squaremouth notes that travelers heading to Europe should look for policies with at least $100,000 in medical evacuation coverage. However, if a traveler is doing more remote activities, such as backpacking through the Swiss Alps or exploring the Scandinavian wilderness, “We recommend at least $250,000 in medical evacuation coverage,” he said.

Travel insurance coverage for baggage and belongings

Lofdahl with Travelex said that the return to travel has been wonderful, but the labor shortage has brought some challenges to the industry. “Delayed and lost baggage is one that most people heard about last year and into this year,” she said. “Every airline experienced increases in lost and delayed baggage, and some even had triple the number of lost and delayed bags as they did in the same period in 2021. I can tell you from experience that this can impact your trip.”

European travel generally can include connecting flights which can increase the likelihood that your luggage can be misdirected or lost.

If your luggage decides to vacation in Madrid instead of Athens, you can file a claim with your travel insurance company. Just be sure to get a report from your airline carrier first.

You may also be able to file a claim for delayed luggage. Depending on your plan, you can purchase a few items to tide you over until your bags arrive at your destination, like a swimsuit, some toiletries and a change of clothes. Just be sure to keep any applicable receipts.

Your travel insurance plan may also reimburse you for other personal effect losses while on your vacation. For example, if your camera gets stolen while touring Copenhagen, or if your leather jacket is swiped while in Milan, you can file a claim. But first, you’ll need to file an incident report with your tour leader, hotel manager or local law enforcement. You will be asked for this documentation during the claim process. 

It’s very important to read your travel insurance documents carefully so you understand the scope of your benefits. There are often per-item limits and caps for coverage, rules about how depreciation will affect your reimbursement levels and exclusions which won’t be covered. For instance, lost or stolen cash isn’t reimbursable, and many high-ticket items like heirloom jewelry and designer watches are often excluded from coverage.

Baggage loss insurance is also typically secondary coverage, meaning it comes into play only after you’ve filed for reimbursement from your airline or homeowners insurance (in the event of theft).

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Buying a travel insurance policy for Europe isn’t required, but it is a smart way to financially protect your trip investment and to ensure you have medical coverage while traveling abroad. 

“Just because it’s not required doesn’t mean it’s not a good idea. Unexpected medical bills can be costly, and an unforeseen emergency evacuation or repatriation back home to the U.S. or Canada can climb to tens of thousands of dollars,” said Terra Baykal, spokesperson with World Nomads.

Travel insurance also provides trip cancellation benefits, which can help you recoup the cost of trip deposits. “Travel insurance may reimburse you for your missed nonrefundable, prepaid travel arrangements like hotels, flights and tours, if you need to cancel for a covered reason, like the death of an immediate family member, or your last-minute illness or injury,” said Baykal.

It’s also important to find an insurer who will cover you for all the activities you plan to pursue in Europe. So if skydiving in Switzerland, paragliding in Greece or ziplining in Croatia is in the cards, make sure your insurer covers your more adventurous pursuits, said Baykal. 

World Nomads automatically covers more than 150 adventure activities and sports for U.S. residents without the need for an additional adventure activities rider. 

While not required to enter Europe, a travel insurance policy with emergency medical coverage is a good idea when traveling to Europe, said Baykal of World Nomads.

Many U.S.-based health insurance providers offer no coverage abroad, or very limited global benefits. If your domestic health insurance doesn’t provide adequate coverage outside of the U.S., buying travel medical insurance for Europe is recommended.

Whether your health coverage travels with you outside the U.S. depends on your Blue Cross Blue Shield plan. Check with your carrier to determine the scope of your travel medical insurance . 

According to Blue Cross Blue Shield, travelers should refer to their Certificate of Coverage and riders and also call customer service to find out about limitations to travel coverage.

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.

Erica Lamberg is a regular contributor to Fox News, Fox Business, Real Simple, Forbes Advisor, AAA and USA TODAY. She writes about business, travel, personal finance, health, travel insurance and work/life balance. She is based in suburban Philadelphia.

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.

10 worst US airports for flight cancellations this week

Travel insurance Heidi Gollub

10 worst US airports for flight cancellations last week

Our travel insurance ratings methodology

AXA Assistance USA travel insurance review 2024

Travel insurance Jennifer Simonson

Cheapest travel insurance of June 2024

Travel insurance Mandy Sleight

Average flight costs: Travel, airfare and flight statistics 2024

Travel insurance Timothy Moore

John Hancock travel insurance review 2024

HTH Worldwide travel insurance review 2024

Airfare at major airports is up 29% since 2021

USI Affinity travel insurance review 2024

Trawick International travel insurance review 2024

Travel insurance for Canada

Travelex travel insurance review 2024

Best travel insurance companies of June 2024

Travel insurance Amy Fontinelle

Best travel insurance for a Disney World vacation in 2024

Schengen Travel Insurance

Traveling to a schengen area.

• Double-check the expiration date on your passport, paying particular attention to the validity of childrens passports, which are only valid for five years.
• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date
• Always carry your passport with you when traveling to other countries within the Schengen Area. While there may not be any border checks at the time of your travel, officials have the authority to reinstate border controls at any time, without prior notice.

Schengen Travel Insurance of which AXA is a leading provider, covers you in all 27 Countries within the Schengen Territory that have abolished internal border controls for their citizens. The countries are:

Do I need travel insurance while traveling to Schengen Countries?

What do I receive with my Schengen travel insurance?  

What countries are covered under my axa travel plan, how can axa help with your trip to europe, how to get a travel protection quote.

Receive a  free quote  within minutes Or call us at  855-327-1441  to speak with our licensed Travel Insurance Advisors. Monday-Saturday, 8AM-7PM Central Time  

Does AXA Travel Insurance provide coverage for Schengen Visa?

AXA Gold and Platinum plans offer the necessary medical and assistance coverage in all 27 countries in the Schengen Territory.   However, the Gold and Platinum plans only provide coverage up to 60 – 90days.

What should I do if I have a medical issue while in the Schengen Area?

Please contact the local authority as soon as possible. Then contact us on the phone number given with the special conditions you receive after taking out your policy. Our helpful staff will then do all we can to resolve your issue and get you treatment or travel home, in line with the conditions of your policy. If you require assistance while traveling, call us at +1312-935-1719

The embassy states that I must get an insurance certificate with Covid protection. Is this possible?

Need help choosing a plan.

Speak with one of our licensed representatives or our 24/7 multilingual Insurance advisors to find the coverage you need for your next trip. From Medical Coverage to Trip Cancellation Protection, our team of travel experts will help you choose the right coverage.

licensed agents available

The Best Travel Health Insurance Companies for Europe

If you’re traveling to Europe this summer, you will definitely want travel insurance to supplement your trip in case anything goes wrong. These are six of the best travel insurance companies for coverage in Europe.

Photo: Pexels.com

When you’re planning a trip to Europe, half of the fun is working out the details of your itinerary, creating a bucket list of attractions to visit, and mapping out the route you want to take.

It’s easy to forget about the finer details, like travel insurance.

That’s just human nature. Who wants to think about the bad stuff when there’s so much to look forward to?

Travel insurance gives you peace of mind while you’re exploring. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a relaxing wine tour through Italy or a more adventurous jaunt through Switzerland – being insured means you’ll come home with only awesome memories and not outrageous medical bills.

But there are different types of travel insurance for Europe and the Schengen zone. Here’s how to pick the best one for your needs.

Why You Need Travel Insurance for Europe

So why do you even need travel insurance for Europe, anyway?

It all comes down to a very blunt truth: literally anything could happen while you’re on the road, and you need to protect yourself. It’s truly no different than having health insurance in your home country.

Travelers don’t like thinking about worst-case scenarios, but it’s the responsible thing to do. And a good travel insurance policy covers everything from the smallest stuff – like lost and stolen luggage – to all the big picture items, like natural disasters or broken bones. Yes, even death.

In countries where you’re not a resident, the cost of things like medical bills and emergency evacuation are drastically higher than in your home country (even compared to the US, where those bills are crazy high already). So while you might not like the idea of dishing out money for insurance, you definitely don’t want to return from your trip with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses.

Note: Depending on your home country, you might need to apply for a Schengen visa. Furthermore, countries outside the Europe Schengen zone may have different visa and travel insurance requirements than member states inside the Schengen zone, including the UK. When in doubt, talk to an agent!

BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE COMPANIES FOR EUROPE 

If you take away just one important thing from this article, let it be this: Europe travel insurance is necessary. Just because these countries are developed and modern doesn’t mean you’re immune to accidents or illness on your travels.

Have a look at the different Europe travel insurance companies and their travel insurance plans.

1. Seven Corners: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Students

So you’ve got your visa application sent off and you’re planning on studying for a semester in Europe. Welcome to one of the best experiences of your life!

It’s likely that you’ll be required to have Europe travel insurance as part of your visa requirements to study abroad (and you may even need to present proof of insurance with your visa application and your visa letter). Regardless, travel health insurance is a must—and Seven Corners is the best.

Seven Corners has three different travel insurance plans specifically designed for international students. Each one is customizable so that you can even change the amount of medical coverage (up to $250,000) as well as the deductible. When you visit the student health center at your school, it’ll only cost you a $5 copay. Trip cancellation and interruption are also covered.

There are tons of options to add as well. For example, if you want to visit family back home while on your holidays, you can add coverage for when you return to the US (or wherever home may be). That means if you get into an accident while you’re at home, you’ll have health insurance coverage.

Get a quote

2. SafetyWing: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Expats & Long-Term Travelers

SafetyWing has incredibly unique travel insurance offerings for long-term travelers/expats.

SafetyWing is a rare gem of a travel insurance company because their plans allow you to have coverage for as long as you want. It works like a subscription, and your plan renews every four weeks automatically (until you cancel).

You’ll get coverage up to $100,000 for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage in 180+ countries. Trip interruption and trip delay coverage is also included (up to $100/day), but trip cancellations are not.

There’s one downside: SafetyWing’s insurance policies will not cover your gear. For digital nomads traveling with laptops, cameras, and other items of high value, this may be a dealbreaker. The good news is that you can add supplemental insurance like InsureMyEquipment to make sure you’ve got complete coverage.

More information

3. World Nomads: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Adventure Travelers

World Nomads is an all-around awesome insurance provider, but especially if you’re an adventurous type. They cover over 300 sports and activities, and their Explorer Plan is catered specifically to those interested in higher-risk activities.

Snowboarding in Switzerland? Diving in the Mediterranean? Competing in an air guitar competition (seriously) in Finland? This is the policy for you.

World Nomads’ plans include up to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, medical evacuation and repatriation, and coverage for stolen or lost luggage. Bonus: their policies have always provided coverage for pandemics/epidemics, so you’re well covered up to $100,000 in emergency medical for COVID-19 too.

The user experience and customer service with World Nomads is also top-notch. If you’re not completely sure if your activity is covered, definitely speak with an insurance agent about your case.

4. Tin Leg: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Seniors

If you’re a senior ready to leave behind the US and make your dream of Europe travels come true, Tin Leg is the travel health insurance company for you.

Travel insurance requirements can be stringent for seniors, especially if you have pre-existing conditions (or if you’re over a certain age). Tin Leg is unique in that it offers travel insurance for people up to age 90!

Tin Leg has a few different plans, including the Tin Leg Economy policy with basic trip cancellations and medical coverage up to $20,000. That’s a bit low compared to other plans, but the Tin Leg Luxury policy covers people up to $100,000 for emergency medical and $250,000 for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.

Pre-Existing Condition coverage is also included if your policy is purchased within 15 days of booking your Europe trip.

5. Travelex: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Families

Taking the whole fam on a country-hopping tour of Europe? Travel insurance coverage is a must for the whole gang.

One of the best things about Travelex is that they provide free coverage for all children age 17 and under, as long as they’re traveling with you under a single policy. It doesn’t matter if you have one kid or five…they’re all covered for travel health insurance!

Travelex is a heavy-duty insurer, and although they only have two main plans they also tons of add-on options. The Basic plan covers $15,000 in emergency medical expenses, $100,000 for emergency medical evacuation, and $500 for lost and damaged baggage.

But with their Travel Select plan, your coverage skyrockets: you’ll get $50,000 in emergency medical, $1,000 for lost or damaged luggage, and $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage. You’ll also get 150 percent of your insured trip cost reimbursed if your trip is interrupted.

6. AXA: Best Travel Insurance Policy for Multiple Trips

If you’re addicted to Europe travel, getting covered by Ama’s Multi-Trip Schengen visa travel insurance is a must.

Multi-Trip is an AXA Schengen visa insurance for frequent travelers who plan on making several trips to Europe over one year. That means if, for example, you’re traveling between the US and France all year on business, you don’t have to purchase travel insurance more than once.

AXA offers medical insurance for expenses up to €100,000 ($111,000) for both the Schengen zone as well as other countries outside of Schengen. If your Europe travel takes you to places like Monaco and Liechtenstein, the AXA Multi-Trip Schengen travel insurance is a great option for you.

But before you plan multiple trips all over Europe, make sure you’re aware of the Schengen visa requirements. Citizens of certain countries may need to apply for a visa depending on the country (if you’re a traveler from the US, you likely won’t have to). Visa refusal is never a fun experience, so make sure to include your AXA Schengen visa insurance certificate with your visa application.

If you’re unsure about anything, AXA has some great customer service. When in doubt, give them a call.

EUROPE TRAVEL INSURANCE FAQs 

Now that you’re aware of the different Europe travel insurance options and their different travel insurance policies, let’s make sure you’re clear on everything else travel insurance related.

Is travel insurance necessary in Europe? 

Yes, as soon as you leave the US (or your home country) to visit Europe and the Schengen area, travel insurance is necessary. Travel medical insurance is by far the most important asset for any traveler because those medical expenses will skyrocket if you get sick or injured abroad.

Plus your Schengen travel insurance should also cover things like trip cancellations and interruption. No matter what country you’re visiting, you need to be prepared.

Does travel insurance for Europe also cover the United Kingdom?

It’s important to understand that not all countries are part of the European Schengen area, including the United Kingdom. Your Schengen visa will not apply here, and your European travel insurance may not apply.

Some insurances, like World Nomads, will take into account that you’re traveling all over the European region and that you don’t just need Schengen travel insurance. When you’re requesting a quote online, you can select each destination you’ll be visiting.

You need to check with your travel insurance plan to make sure you’re covered for all your medical expenses and emergency evacuation (as well as anything else you want).

Talk to some travel insurance agents for greater clarity on your options. Europe travel awaits!

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe? 

The amount of travel insurance coverage you need for Europe/the Schengen area really depends on what you’re planning to do. In any case, your insurance plan should at least cover you for up to $100,000 in medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

You’ll also want to consider what kind of expenses you’ll incur if you’re not covered for things like trip interruption, cancellations, and lost/damaged luggage. You can’t often make corrections to your travel health insurance plan after you’ve begun traveling, so make sure you get it right!

Do US citizens need travel insurance for Europe?

Yes, US citizens absolutely need travel medical insurance for Europe, including the Schengen area.

If you’re a US citizen and you get sick or if you’re seriously hurt while in Europe or the Schengen area, you could face crazy high medical expenses. That could mean hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical debt.

Europe travel insurance is a must for any traveler, and that means US citizens too.

What countries are included in Europe travel insurance?

Generally, Europe/Schengen travel insurance will cover all European countries. As mentioned above, insurers know that you’re likely to visit more than one country on your trip.

But do your homework. Some popular European countries aren’t part of the Schengen area, including the likes of Bulgaria, Croatia, and even the United Kingdom. When it comes to insurance coverage, make sure you read the fine print and make any corrections to your policy as needed.

Residents from certain countries other than the US may require a visa as well, and applicants will want to apply well in advance. Bottom line: your travel medical insurance (just like your Schengen visa requirements) may differ depending on where you’re going.

Does my health insurance cover me in Europe?

Depending on the health insurance coverage you have at home, you may have travel coverage for Europe travel too. Keep in mind this is still travel insurance though—you won’t be able to claim expenses for things like cosmetic surgery abroad.

But in general, residents of the US (and residents of other places, for that matter) shouldn’t assume they’re covered.

Pro-tip: review your policy in great detail before you leave, in case you need to make any corrections.

Do I need Schengen visa insurance for Europe?

Many citizens do not need a Schengen visa before traveling to Europe. You’ll need to figure out what the Schengen visa requirements are for your country first. If you’re a US citizen, for example, you do not need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Applying for a visa can be a daunting experience for some citizens, but the online process for applicants is pretty straightforward. Absolutely make sure you have proof of your Schengen visa travel insurance secured beforehand (like the AXA Schengen visa insurance certificate mentioned earlier), and include it with your visa letter and visa application.

Once you’ve received your Schengen visa, you’re good to go.

Now it’s time—are you ready to see Europe?

Latest Articles

• London Postal Museum: A Comparison of Tickets & Tours June 12, 2024
• 3 Unique Zipline Tours & Experiences near Denver June 12, 2024
• St Louis with Kids: 7 Family-Friendly Things to Do June 11, 2024
• 7 of the Best Coworking Spaces in Porto June 11, 2024
• Best Laundry Pick Up and Delivery Services in Singapore June 11, 2024

Traveling From the USA to Europe? Here Are 3 Health Insurances to Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Visiting Europe is an exciting and memorable trip for most American travellers, regardless of whether it's for business, to visit friends or family, or just as a tourist to see the big cities like Paris, Rome, or Vienna And while traveling to Europe can be an accessible, it's worth remembering that out-the-pocket healthcare costs are among the most expensive in the world, so it's not just a good idea, but essential, to arrive in the country with travel health insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Europe and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats alike.

Europe Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Europe:

Best Travel Insurances for Europe

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Europe? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance from the USA to Europe scroll down

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory From the USA to Europe?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when travelling to Schengen countries. If you're entering the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, you must show a valid passport and travel insurance that covers the duration of their stay and a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. Being insured is one of the necessary steps to secure a visa and enter the Schengen Area, and failure to comply may result in a denial of entry from America.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Europe or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for the EU from America:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for visitors from the USA traveling to the EU. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Europe, including coverage for emergencies, doctor's visits, and other medical-related expenses. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies, and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Europe:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another good travel insurance provider for Europe, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance from the USA with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for young people or digital nomads from the USA because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind in the EU knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term traveling

Compare For Yourself

In this post, we explored three travel insurance providers you should consider for your next trip to Europe from the USA. That being said, there are many more providers out there, some of which might make even more sense for you depending on your travel needs and preferences. To compare the top providers on the market, run a search on Monto's travel insurance comparison engine below 👇

Find travel insurance for you:

How do they compare.

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Europe? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 14/02/2023

FAQ About Travel Insurance from the USA to Europe

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when travelling to Schengen countries. If you're entering the Schengen Area from a non-Schengen country, you must show a valid passport and travel insurance that covers the duration of their stay and a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. Being insured is one of the necessary steps to secure a visa and enter the Schengen Area, and failure to comply may result in a denial of entry.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to visitors worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with traveling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the insured, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent tourists.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

For your holidays in Europe and abroad

Travel insurance for europe .

Europe may be known to world leaders and businesses for its central position in trade and commerce or its unique geographical location between the two ‘Old World’ continents – Asia and Africa. But for travelers and explorers worldwide, it is a destination that offers the best of everything. From a vibrant history and cultural heritage to arts, architecture, nature, and food, Europe is diverse in every sense of the word. It offers everything that one may wish for on vacation. It also caters to all types of travelers. Whether you’re a backpacker or one who goes all out on their trips, you can explore Europe in your style. No wonder everyone has Europe on their list of must-visit places. Considering how popular a travel destination in Europe is, you may already know a thing or two about the region. However, travelers often overlook a few things that are worth knowing. Let’s take a look…

Discover our Travel Insurance for Europe

Travel insurance germany | travel insurance italy, is travel insurance for europe a requirement , europe travel faqs, what documents do i need to travel to europe.

• Passport with a minimum of six months validity and at least one blank page for every European country you intend to visit.

Does Europe require International Medical Coverage?

What vaccinations are required to visit europe.

• Hepatitis A and B
• Tick-borne Encephalitis
• Routine Vaccines – Flu, Polio, MMR, Shingles, Chickenpox, and Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis

What is the best time of year to visit Europe?

What is the local currency of europe and its exchange rate for usd, are credit cards widely accepted in europe if yes, which ones, what local customs and cultural norms tourists visiting europe should be aware of.

• Tipping isn’t as common in Europe as in the US.
• Don’t expect everyone to know English in countries other than the UK.
• Beware of pick-pocketing; it’s common in many parts of Europe.
• In Italy, denying food is considered impolite, so it is best to accept it when offered.
• Americans are often referred to as irritating in Europe due to their loud nature. Be polite and talk at a lower volume as much as you can.

AXA already looks after millions of people around the world

With our travel insurance we can take great care of you too

7 Best Europe Travel Insurance Plans for US Citizens in 2024

Updated on January 10, 2024 by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Europe travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE EUROPE

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

BEST WEBSITE FOR

Comparing Policies

• Compare dozens of the best Europe travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place
• Easily filter for the features you want and get support from their award-winning customer service team
• Founded in 2013, TravelInsurance.com has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers find affordable insurance coverage

BEST POLICY FOR

Fast Claims

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

Travelers Aged 55+

• Pre-existing medical conditions are covered for a reasonable fee and they offer “cancel for any reason” as an add-on
• $2,000 COVID quarantine coverage available w/ Safe Travels Voyager plan
• Founded in 1998 and underwritten by Nationwide and GBG Insurance

Filtering Plans

• This comparison website has the most comprehensive filters especially for Covid-19 which helps you search for the specific benefits you need
• They have “Zero Complaint Guarantee” which promises a fair claims process
• Established in 2003, Squaremouth has consistently been recognized for it’s exceptional customer service

BEST POLICY FROM

An Established Brand

• Well rounded, inexpensive travel insurance plans from an established and top rated global insurance company
• AXA has plans that cover pre-existing conditions and their “Platinum” plan covers “cancel for any reason” with an optional add-on. They also offer helpful 24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services
• Founded in 1959 and underwritten by Nationwide

Family Travel

• Their “Trip Interruption for any Reason” feature allows you to get a 75% reimbursement for any additional expenses if you decide to go home early from your trip
• They have a variety of insurance products to suit any travel needs
• Founded in 1993 and underwritten by Nationwide Insurance

$521 Per Year

Long-term Travel

• Ideal for digital nomads and long-term travel, available to anyone anywhere
• Scored lower because short-term travel coverage isn’t as robust as competitors
• Founded in 2018 and is underwritten by Lloyds of London

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON?

• Compare dozens of travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place

Europe travel insurance FAQs

What is not covered by travel insurance.

You can expect your Europe travel insurance coverage to protect against a number of incidents, particularly those that are unforeseen and unexpected. However, several things may not fall under coverage, especially trip changes or cancellations due to personal preferences or whims. One example may be that you have a falling out with your travel companion and no longer want to go together. Another may be that you get swamped with work right before your trip and decide you shouldn’t leave on vacation after all. If you want more flexibility with your plans, the optional Seven Corners Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade that would make your trip eligible for reimbursement. Seven Corners also has Trip Interruption coverage to protect you financially should your trip get cut short due to covered emergencies. Furthermore, standard travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing medical conditions. Still, most providers have optional packages you can purchase if this concerns you or your travel companions. Every insurance provider has different requirements, but most only give you 14-21 days after paying the deposit on your trip to add this upgrade to your plan.

Does travel insurance cover adventure sports and extreme activities?

Opportunities to participate in adventure sports or extreme activities abound in Europe. Whether you go surfing in Portugal, skiing in Chamonix, bungee jumping in the Swiss Alps, white water rafting in Slovenia, or something completely different, Europe will not disappoint. And you will be even more pleased to know that many travel insurance providers will cover these outdoor excursions. I recommend using SquareMouth.com and choosing the “Sports & Activities” filter. It will allow you to enter any extreme sport or activity you’re interested in while on your European vacation and then show you all of the standard insurance policies that cover them. Remember to read the policy details before purchasing any travel insurance plan.

What to do if you’re in an emergency in Europe?

In an emergency in any European Union (EU) country, dial 112 from any phone. You may want to consult this list of European emergency phone numbers for European countries not part of the EU. Should you or another traveler insured by your policy experience a medical emergency, be sure to contact your travel insurance’s customer support line. They will coordinate transportation to a hospital that is up to US standards so that you can receive the best treatment possible.

Does travel insurance cover cancellation due to Covid or other communicable diseases?

Travel insurance companies are constantly adapting to the pandemic. As a result, many standard travel plans cover COVID-19 related cancellations or medical treatments. You can use a comparison website such as WithFaye.com to find the best new policies. I recommend choosing a plan with at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and $100,000 for medical evacuation. If you have already purchased a plan, check with your provider whether they have a policy rider that will cover trip cancellations due to communicable diseases. It is important to highlight that some aspects of travel may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic but not covered by insurance. These may include border closures, quarantine restrictions, negative test requirements, fear of travel due to new outbreaks, etc. If you think any of these issues may alter your travel plans, buying a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade will give you added peace of mind.

How long does an insurance claim take?

After completing a claim with all necessary documentation, expect reimbursements to take 6 to 8 weeks. This time frame may vary from one provider to another, though.

What happens if my travel insurance claim is rejected?

If your claim was rejected, there are several potential reasons why: the policy did not cover the claim, required procedures were not followed, pre-existing medical conditions were not disclosed or costs were not accurately reported. If you believe your claim is valid, but the insurer rejects it, they will notify you of the available follow-up steps.

Does travel insurance cover emergency dental work?

Travel insurance policies tend to cover a minimal amount of dental work, ranging from $100-$750, and only for natural teeth. Bridges, crowns and false teeth do not fall under coverage, and neither do routine cleanings and exams. Trip insurance plans also limit when covered dental work can be performed. Review the full details for any plan you intend to purchase and ask the provider for clarification if you are unclear about its benefits.

Does travel insurance cover the death of a relative?

The answer to this question differs between policies. Suppose a relative of yours dies from a pre-existing health condition or suicide, you may not be eligible for bereavement benefits if you bought the cheapest travel insurance plan available. However, some policies with higher premiums will reimburse you regardless of the cause of death. It’s essential to read the policy details in full for relevant specifics. Another aspect to consider is who each provider deems “covered relatives” are. Do in-laws count? Siblings? Pets? Cousins? Grandparents? Again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer as it varies from one insurance plan to the next.

Most common problems while traveling in Europe and how to avoid them:

When traveling in Europe, there are far fewer illnesses one has to worry about than in more exotic, tropical destinations. The most typical illness people experience is food poisoning, which is no more common than it is in the US. That said, if you’re traveling through some of the southern European countries in the peak of summer, be mindful of the potential for sunstroke (aka heatstroke). Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, high fever, nausea and the possible loss of consciousness. If you suspect that you have sunstroke, consult a medical doctor immediately.

When it comes to accidents in Europe, the ones involving tourists are rather run-of-the-mill, such as trips and falls, car accidents or those involving sports or outdoor activities. For the latter, always ensure that you book your activities through reputable companies with a solid safety track record. Another common accident amongst Americans in Europe is from driving mopeds. If you do not know how to operate one properly, be sure to ask for advice and instructions before setting off on any grand adventures. And once you do, take your time and stay alert.

Muggings and pickpocketing are most common in tourist-packed cities like Florence, Paris, Barcelona, Belgrade, Marseille and Sofia. Be mindful of your possessions when in large crowds and alert to your surroundings whenever you’re out exploring, especially at night. It’s also vital to remain alert whenever you take public transport to reduce your risk of being a victim. Remember that pickpockets often work in teams, in which one distracts you while the other steals your valuables.

Emergency resources for Europe

Phone numbers.

If you are in a European Union country, dial 112 from any phone in the event of an emergency. For countries in Europe that are not part of the EU, refer to this list for each country’s specific emergency hotline number.

US embassy or consulate details

Each European country has at least one US Embassy or Consulate General. Use this list to locate the embassy or consulate nearest to your vacation destination. Each city/country’s webpage will have its phone number, address, hours of operation, and other essential information regarding citizen services. Travelers who wish to play it safe can register their trip with the closest US Embassy or Consulate through the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . A significant benefit of the program is that it sends you travel advisories specific to your destinations within Europe. Listing your trip also allows them to communicate with you and your family should an emergency occur.

Other local knowledge that is helpful for travelers

Communication.

Using your American mobile phone in Europe adds up quickly. To avoid spending a small fortune on mobile phone service, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available in most cafés, fast-food restaurants, and some hotels. Sending emails and texts via messaging apps or making Wi-Fi calls are also great ways to save money. Remember to switch all of your phone’s app updates to manual instead of automatic since data charges can add up quickly. However, if you want to be constantly accessible, upgrade to an international calling plan with your US mobile phone carrier before leaving home. Your other option would be to purchase a European SIM card as a more affordable way to stay connected. If you prefer the latter, contact your US mobile phone carrier for more information, as they will need to unlock your phone from their network before you leave for vacation. Prepaid credit for calls, messages and data is relatively affordable in Europe, and unlike in the US, you can still receive calls even if you run out of credit within a given country.

Not all countries in Europe use the euro (€), so I recommend checking in advance which currency each country you’ll be traveling to uses. To see which countries use the euro, visit the European Union’s website . Also, the World Atlas has a helpful chart that lists all European countries and their respective currencies (see bottom of the page). Always have cash on hand while traveling through Europe to cover public transportation costs, tolls, parking garages, gas (petrol), tips, and other low-cost purchases you may make. To get the best exchange rates, withdraw cash from a local bank’s ATM upon arrival. In Europe, ATMs are known as cash machines. Be sure to steer clear of non-bank-owned cash machines such as Travelex, Cardpoint, etc., since they are more vulnerable to being hacked and charge significantly higher fees and exchange rates. Remember to alert your bank in the US of your exact travel dates and respective destinations, so they don’t block your card. Also, note that if any business asks you whether you would like your purchase to be in the local currency or US dollars when using a credit or debit card, always choose the local currency. If you opt for USD, you will be charged an additional processing fee for the simple privilege of being told the price conversion!

Getting Around

Europe has excellent public transportation, including cross-border flights, trains and buses within the continent. If you prefer to travel between European countries via train, you might want to look into purchasing a Eurail pass. While there are various tiers you can opt for when buying such a pass, they all give you the freedom of not having to commit to specific destinations or dates. However, it will require you to complete all of your travel within a given time window. Buying individual tickets for each particular destination is also an option, and it may save you money if you are not planning to make more than 2 or 3 trips by train. When it comes to flying, I recommend using a flight comparison site such as Kayak.com or SkyScanner.com . You can often find very reasonably-priced tickets with major airlines. It is important to note that budget airlines generally do not allow flight changes or cancellations and charge extra for luggage and food. Bus networks within Europe are not as extensive as their rail equivalents, but they are much more affordable and more readily available. You can buy your tickets at station kiosks, onboard or online; booking in advance online is always your best bet for securing a seat for your preferred date and time. For those who wish to see Europe by car, it is always best to reserve your rental before leaving on vacation. One thing that catches many American visitors off-guard is that most rental cars in Europe come with manual transmissions. Therefore, if you prefer an automatic, you will need to filter for this when comparing various rental car offers. Keep in mind that cars with automatic transmissions will cost more per day than those with manuals.

Throughout all of Europe, prices are inclusive of sales tax, known as a value-added tax (VAT), so you can expect to pay the price you see on menus and price tags. For those of you who are traveling throughout the European Union, you may be able to reclaim some of the VAT you pay on larger purchases (the minimum amount varies from country to country). Please visit the European Union’s Taxation and Customs Page website to learn more about getting a VAT refund. For non-EU countries, you will need to inquire specifically with their customs agents at the local airports. Additional information is available at Global Blue . Should you wish to receive an on-the-spot refund, allow for an extra 45 minutes to 1 hour at your departure airport.

Unlike in the US, tipping is not as standardized or costly. In some cases, it is not even expected. Tipping your taxi driver an extra €1 is adequate or a little more if they help you with your bags. No tipping is necessary in cafés or restaurants where you order at the counter. However, if you are receiving table service, look at your bill ––they don’t call it a check-in Europe––to see if a service charge has been included. If so, then tipping is not necessary. If not, then 10% is a good tip for quality service. Of course, you are welcome to tip more if you feel the service was outstanding. Other service providers that often get tipped are hotel housekeeping staff, room service staff, bellhops, and activity and tour guides.

What to pack for Europe

Apart from Travel Insurance, we recommend you bring the following items for maximum health, safety, and enjoyment of your trip to Europe.

A final note about travel insurance for Europe

I have spent dozens of hours researching travel insurance, including getting quotes and comparing coverage from all the most popular brands. Regardless of where you’re going I am confident that you will also find that WithFaye.com offers the best way to compare policies with the ideal combo of coverage and price.

I wish you and yours an incredible journey.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology

• Average price for a 2-week vacation based on a 35-year-old California resident traveling to the Europe with a $3,500 trip cost
• Coronavirus coverage
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR)
• AM Best rating of the underwriter
• Key policy details including cancellation, interruption, emergency medical evacuation, and baggage & personal effects
• Ease of sign up
• Policy language clarity
• User reviews

June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova; North Korea; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Europe?

Get a Quote

{{travelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

{{annualTravelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

If your trip involves multiple destinations, please enter the destination where you’ll be spending the most time. It is not required to list all destinations on your policy.

Age of Traveler

Ages: {{quote.travelers_ages}}

If you were referred by a travel agent, enter the ACCAM number provided by your agent.

Travel Dates

{{quote.travel_dates ? quote.travel_dates : "Departure - Return" | formatDates}}

Plan Start Date

{{quote.start_date ? quote.start_date : "Date"}}

Share this Page

• {{errorMsgSendSocialEmail}}

Your browser does not support iframes.

Popular Travel Insurance Plans

• Annual Travel Insurance
• Cruise Insurance
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Rental Car Insurance

View all of our travel insurance products

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] .

Return To Log In

Your session has expired. We are redirecting you to our sign-in page.

• Personal Finance Financial Advisors Credit Cards Taxes Retirement
• Insurance Auto Vision Life Dental Health Medicare Home Life Business Pet
• Investing Stocks Options ETFs Mutual Funds Futures IPOs Bonds Index Funds Forex Prop Trading
• Alternative investing Real Estate Startups Collectables
• Mortgage Rates Calculator Reviews Purchase Refinance Self-Employed
• Cryptocurrency Exchanges Price Action Apps Earn Crypto Wallets

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Europe?

Traveling abroad is expensive, which might leave you asking: do I need travel insurance for Europe? While you might think nothing could keep you from seeing the locations you’ve always wanted to, a surprise illness, family emergency or large expense could lead you to back out of the trip. In that case, having cancellation protection is great. And even if you can go on the trip, your US-based health insurance won’t apply abroad. However, trip insurance can provide international health insurance, even if you just need an antibiotic for a sinus infection while traveling. Here are all the reasons you should consider covering your travels with an insurance policy. 

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Europe?

Do you need travel medical insurance for europe, travel insurance coverage to consider for your europe trip.

• See All 20 Items

Most travel experts recommend purchasing international travel insurance . The cost of the insurance is generally not more than 5% of your total trip cost and often far less than that. It protects you from various scenarios, from lost luggage to accidents and illnesses while on your trip.

While the chances of needing the insurance might feel minimal, it’s there for all the unknowns and things you can’t predict when traveling. Your unique potential for loss is also a factor. For example, the older you get, the more likely you’ll suffer an injury or illness during the trip or before, preventing you from getting on the flight. For some people, an international medical bill could bankrupt them, meaning the insurance is well worth the small price tag. Others just paid out their entire nest egg for their dream trip they’ve been working toward their whole life and want to ensure they get to go on that trip no matter what their future holds.

If any of those scenarios sound like you, it’s best to talk to an insurance agent or head to a quote website for travel insurance as soon as you book your flight for your European adventure to protect your investment and your savings in case anything should happen while you’re on the trip. 

While no one will require that you have travel medical insurance to visit Europe, it’s a wise decision to seek coverage. Without travel medical insurance, you’ll be liable for the full bill when you seek medical care abroad. Your US-based health insurance policy will likely not pay for expenses abroad.

Most travel insurance plans come with five basic coverage options. But you can add-on coverages or look for policies that include those extra coverage options in the standard policy if they matter to you. Here’s a look at the travel insurance coverage options you might consider.

Trip Cancellation

Canceling a preplanned trip is expensive. You’ll most likely lose everything you’ve prepaid and invested in the experience unless you have trip cancellation insurance . This insurance provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances. 

You should seek this travel insurance when you pay most of the bill upfront. Many people on organized tours must spend thousands of dollars on European travel. Short-term rentals also require money upfront to hold your spot and likely won’t refund that money if you cancel.

Another reason to consider trip interruption coverage is if you or your fellow travelers are in poor health. You'll be ready if you end up with a surprise hospital stay or medical procedure prohibiting travel. 

You’ll have coverage if you or a travel partner cannot make the trip due to illness, a layoff or death. If the airline or other travel accommodation you had booked suddenly goes under, you’ll get the funds you paid back so you can book new travel. When emergencies prevent you from making your flight, such as inclement weather or a car accident on your way to the airport, the insurance will cover you to book a last-minute replacement flight.

Trip Interruption

Once you’re on your trip, many things can happen that might disrupt your plans. Trip interruption insurance can reimburse for a hotel stay, airport taxi fare, flight home and more. Your insurance policy will specifically outline when trip interruption coverage kicks in, but some common scenarios include the following.

• Death of someone on the trip with you
• Extreme weather
• Illness or injury
• Medical evacuation
• Natural disasters

Trip Delays

Delays during travel can be quite costly. You might need emergency accommodations, spend additional funds on food or rebook a connecting flight or other transportation. Many airlines won’t cover these expenses if the delay is out of their control, such as weather. That means you’ll be left with the expense unless you have travel delay insurance.

Baggage Delay Coverage

If the airline loses your luggage or your luggage goes to the wrong hotel between European cities during a tour of the country, you’ll have coverage to purchase what you need until the baggage is returned. This can be helpful because of the cost of goods in European countries. 

Lost Luggage Reimbursement

You’ve planned the perfect wardrobe and stunning jewelry to accent those outfits. You've packed up any necessary medications and have all the essentials ready in your luggage. Then, that luggage gets lost in transit and you suddenly have to pay top dollar for a new wardrobe and essentials once you arrive. Lost luggage reimbursement can cover the value of the goods within your luggage, so you’re protected. 

Medical Expenses

The most common reason for trip cancellations and interruptions is a sudden illness or injury. Not only can you face large medical expenses while in Europe due to the price of health care and your health insurance won’t apply, but you might also have additional lodging expenses you’re liable for to cover travel partners while you’re receiving care.

Check with your U.S. health insurance company to see if it will cover you while in Europe. Most won’t, but you may have an outlier plan that provides the coverage you need. Ask about preauthorizations to ensure that getting care won’t be a problem. If your health plan doesn’t cover you, decide whether you could pay several thousand dollars if you need standard medical care. 

Cancel for Any Reason

Adding cancel for any reason coverage to your travel insurance can make the policy significantly more expensive. However, it does allow you to decide not to travel for any reason and not just covered reasons. That might mean you don’t feel up to the trip anymore or a small event at home is more attractive to you, such as a grandchild’s birthday. Most policies require that you purchase this insurance within 21 days of booking your travel and cancel the trip at least 48 hours in advance. But other than that, this insurance will cover you for just about anything.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

If you sustain an injury or accident during your trip, you might be transported back home or to a competent European hospital near you. That’s quite costly, as medical evacuations often involve helicopter rides with medical professionals. This insurance covers those expenses so you can travel with peace of mind and get to a medical facility that can treat you.

Rental Car Damage 

If you’ll be driving in Europe, getting rental car damage coverage is wise. The rules of the road are different there and you’ll be operating a rental car different from the vehicles you’re used to at home. You’ll have coverage for damage or theft of your rental car just in case you park it in the wrong spot or make a mistake in operation as you adjust to the differences in the rules of the road while traveling.

How Much Does Travel Insurance for Europe Cost?

Travel insurance averages just over $200 for two adult travelers. Many factors will determine the exact cost that you pay.

• Number of days
• Age of travelers
• Coverage options you select
• Travel destination
• Cost of the travel you’re covering (the more expensive, the more it will cost the insurance company to cover a claim)

4 Best Travel Insurance for Europe

When you’re planning a trip to Europe, remember to purchase travel insurance. Here are four leading options from reputable insurance companies.

1. Best for Online Quotes and Purchasing: Faye

Get coverage for nonrefundable expenses should something disrupt your travel plans. If you’re hurt during your travels, you’ll have the coverage necessary to cover medical expenses. 

You don’t need to find an insurance agent to help you purchase travel insurance. You can get a quote and purchase insurance from Faye entirely online. Enjoy 24/7 access to customer support to get the coverage you need for your upcoming trip, no matter the time of day. You can find answers to questions and ensure you’re covered, even if you are traveling immediately.

Faye holds an A (excellent) rating from AM Best, signifying its stability and security as a company. You can manage your policy from the convenient mobile app or even file a claim while on the go. 

Why We Love It: The average cost of the policy is $250. With online support and a streamlined purchasing process, you can manage your policy remotely anywhere and any time zone.

2. Best for Covering the Whole Family: Travelex Insurance Services

When you’re taking your children on the trip of a lifetime, you’ll get free trip insurance for them when you cover yourself. Children ages 17 and younger automatically get coverage if their trip expenses are less than their covered parent’s. Like most trip insurance companies, existing conditions will not be covered for medical expenses on standard policies. But you can add coverage for these conditions during your travels. 

You can get coverage for trips up to 364 days long. Another option coverage is for trip cancellations due to work reasons. This is nice for those who have inflexible jobs. 

Why We Love It: Travelex Insurance Services' coverage is comprehensive and you can choose additional coverage where you need it without paying for things you don’t need. It’s quite affordable, averaging just over $200 per trip.

3. Best for Simple Policy Options: Arch RoamRight

This provides a broad overview of your policy provisions and does not revise or amend the policy. Insurance coverages are underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, NAIC #11150, under policy series LTP 2013 and amendments thereto. Plans are offered and disseminated by registered travel retailers on behalf of Arch Insurance Solutions Inc., a licensed travel insurance producer* (CA License #0I18111, TX License #1787195). Both the travel insurance producer and the underwriter referenced above may be reached at 1-844-872-4163. Your policy is the contract that specifically and fully describes your coverage. Certain terms, conditions, restrictions and exclusions apply and coverages may vary in certain states. Please refer to your policy for detailed terms and conditions. Consumer Disclosures can be found at: https://www.roamright.com/disclosures/. Privacy policy can be found at: https://www.roamright.com/roamright-website-privacy-policy/ *Plans are solicited by licensed producers in NY and HI. 

If you’re new to international travel and are looking for the main trip insurance coverage options, including trip cancellation and interruption, you’ll like the Arch RoamRight experience. Those who like to tailor their policy with additional coverage options or riders might find the two options limiting. But those looking to cover their trip with ease will appreciate the simplicity. 

A neat perk Arch RoamRight offers is coverage for a child aged 17 or younger with the purchase of coverage for a parent. That means if a family of four travels together, they can pay for the two adults and get the two children coverage for free.

Why We Love It: Fewer options are better since they make it easy for beginners to select the travel insurance they need. The plans come with $0 medical deductibles. You can also get a waiver for preexisting medical conditions at no extra cost if you meet the eligibility requirements.

4. Best for Insurance Comparison Marketplace: Aardy.com

If you’re price conscious or want to build your own policy with the specific coverage options that matter to you, head to Aardy.com to compare options. When you share details about your trip and the coverage you’re looking for, you can compare options across more than 30 plans.

Then, you can compare prices and coverage options or filter based on your policy preferences. Match your policy to your budget and enjoy savings. Aardy.com is partnered with many outstanding and highly rated travel insurance companies.

Why We Love It: With many policies and insurance companies, you’ll find exactly what you want within your budget. Aardy.com has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, which emphasizes customer support and satisfaction.

Be Prepared for Anything when Traveling Europe

As you explore Europe, its rich history and incredible views, you don’t want to be worried about what might happen if you sustain an injury. Instead, enjoy peace of mind that if your trip is interrupted, delayed or disrupted or you suffer an illness or injury, you’ll be covered with trip insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions 

When do you need to buy travel insurance.

You need to buy travel insurance no more than 21 days after booking your flight and accommodations. Many plans will charge extra or not cover you if you wait too long.

Where can you buy travel insurance for Europe?

You can buy travel insurance for Europe from a travel agent, an insurance agent or directly from insurance companies online.

Is it worth getting travel insurance for Europe?

Travel insurance for Europe costs a fraction of your accommodations. With so much that can happen when traveling internationally, it’s wise to pay a small fee to cover your travels.

About Rebekah Brately

Rebekah Brately is an investment writer passionate about helping people learn more about how to grow their wealth. She has more than 12 years of writing experience, focused on technology, travel, family and finance. Her work has been published in Benzinga, Hearst Bay Area, FreightWaves and Dallas Observer publications.

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.

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

According to our analysis of more than 50 travel insurance companies and hundreds of different travel insurance plans, the best travel insurance company is Travelex Insurance Services. In our best travel insurance ratings, we take into account traveler reviews, credit ratings and industry awards. The best travel insurance companies offer robust coverage and excellent customer service, and many offer customizable add-ons.

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

HTH Travel Insurance »

Tin Leg »

AIG Travel Guard »

Nationwide Insurance »

Seven Corners »

Generali Global Assistance »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

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 Insurance Companies.

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can help you protect the financial investment you made in your vacation when unexpected issues arise. Find the best travel insurance for the type of trip(s) you're taking and the coverages that matter most to you – from interruptions and misplaced belongings to illness and injury.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Overall
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Trip Interruptions
• HTH Travel Insurance: Best for Groups
• Tin Leg: Best Cost
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Families
• Nationwide Insurance: Best for Last-Minute Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners: Best for 24/7 Support When Traveling
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best for Specialized Coverage

Customizable upgrades are available, including car rental coverage, additional medical insurance and adventure sports coverage

Medical and trip cancellation maximum are not as high as some other companies

• 100% of the insured trip cost for trip cancellation; 150% for trip interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost, damaged or stolen bags and personal items; $200 for luggage delays
• $750 in missed connection coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Annual and multitrip policies are available

Distinguishing between the company's 10 travel insurance plans can be challenging

• Up to $200,000 in trip cancellation coverage; $300,000 in trip interruption coverage
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen luggage and personal effects; $600 for bag delays
• Up to $1,600 for travel delays
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $75,000
• Epidemic coverage

Generous coverage at the mid- and high-tier levels, and great group discounts

Preexisting conditions coverage is only available at mid- and high-tier plans

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to $50,000); 200% trip interruption coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $400 in baggage delay coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for trip delays; $1,000 for missed connections
• $500,000 in coverage per person for sickness and accidents

Variety of plans to choose from, including two budget-friendly policies and several more premium options

More limited coverage for baggage issues than other companies

• 100% trip cancellation protection; 150% trip interruption
• $500 per person for lost, stolen or damaged baggage and personal items
• Up to $2,000 per person in travel delay coverage ($150 per day); $100 per person for missed connections
• $100,000 per person in emergency medical coverage, including issues related to COVID-19

Travel insurance policy coverage is tailored to your specific trip

Information about policy coverage inclusions is not readily available without first obtaining a quote

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of your trip's cost; trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Up to $2,500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged baggage; $500 related to luggage delays
• Up to $1,000 in missed connection and trip delay coverage
• $100,000 in emergency medical coverage

Variety of plans to choose from and coverage available up to a day before you leave on your trip

Limited trip cancellation coverage even at the highest tier

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000; trip interruption coverage worth up to 200% of the trip cost (maximum of $60,000)
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage; $600 for baggage delays
• Up to $2,000 for trip delays; missed connection and itinerary change coverage of $500 each
• $150,000 for emergency medical and dental issues

Customer service available 24/7 via text, Whatsapp, email and phone

Cancel for any reason coverage costs extra

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to between $30,000 and $100,000 depending on your state of residence); interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost 
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $2,500; up to $600 for luggage delays
• Trip delay and missed connection coverage worth up to $1,500
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to between $250,000 and $500,000 (depending on where you live)

Generous emergency medical and emergency evacuation coverage

Coverage for those with preexisting conditions is only available on the Premium plan

• 100% reimbursement for trip cancellation; 175% reimbursement for trip interruption
• $2,000 in coverage for loss of baggage per person
• $1,000 per person in travel delay and missed connection coverage
• $250,000 in medical and dental coverage per person

In addition to single-trip plans, company offers specific road trip, adventure travel, flight and cruise insurance coverage

Coverage for missed connections or accidental death and dismemberment is not part of the most basic plan

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost; interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cost
• $500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged bags and personal items; bag delay coverage worth $200
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000; missed connection coverage worth up to $100
• Medical coverage worth up to $50,000

To help you better understand the costs associated with travel insurance, we requested quotes for a weeklong June 2024 trip to Spain for a solo traveler, a couple and a family. These rates should help you get a rough estimate for about how much you can expect to spend on travel insurance. For additional details on specific coverage from each travel insurance plan and to input your trip information for a quote, see our comparison table below.

Travel Insurance Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are several types of travel insurance you'll want to evaluate before choosing the policy that's right for you. A few of the most popular types of travel insurance include:

COVID travel insurance Select insurance plans offer some or a combination of the following COVID-19-related protections: coverage for rapid or PCR testing; accommodations if you're required to quarantine during your trip if you test positive for coronavirus; health care; and trip cancellations due to you or a family member testing positive for COVID-19. Read more about the best COVID-19 travel insurance options .

Cancel for any reason insurance Cancel for any reason travel insurance works exactly how it sounds. This type of travel insurance lets you cancel your trip for any reason you want – even if your reason is that you simply decide you no longer want to go. Cancel for any reason travel insurance is typically an add-on you can purchase to go along with other types of travel insurance. For that reason, you will pay more to have this kind of coverage added to your policy.

Also note that this type of coverage typically only reimburses 50% to 80% of your nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses. You'll want to make sure you know exactly how much reimbursement you could qualify for before you invest in this type of policy. Compare the best cancel for any reason travel insurance options here .

International travel insurance Travel insurance is especially useful when traveling internationally, as it can provide medical coverage for emergencies (in some cases for COVID-19) when you're far from home. Depending which international travel insurance plan you choose, this type of travel insurance can also cover lost or delayed luggage, rental cars, travel interruptions or cancellations, and more.

Cheap travel insurance If you want travel insurance but don't want to spend a lot of money, there are plenty of cheap travel insurance options that will offer at least some protections (and peace of mind). These are typically called a company's basic or standard plan; many travel insurance companies even allow you to customize your coverage, spending as little or as much as you want. Explore your options for the cheapest travel insurance here .

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance Trip cancellation coverage can help you get reimbursement for prepaid travel expenses, such as your airfare and cruise fare, if your trip is ultimately canceled for a covered reason. Trip interruption insurance, on the other hand, kicks in to reimburse you if your trip is derailed after it starts. For instance, if you arrived at your destination and became gravely ill, it would cover the cost if you had to cut your trip short.

Trip delay insurance can help you qualify for reimbursement of any unexpected expenses you incur (think: lodging, transportation and food) in the event your trip is delayed for reasons beyond your control, such as your flight being canceled and rebooked for the next day. You will want to save your receipts to substantiate your claim if you have this coverage.

Lost, damaged, delayed or stolen bags or personal belongings Coverage for lost or stolen bags can come in handy if your checked luggage is lost by your airline or your luggage is delayed so long that you have to buy clothing and toiletries for your trip. This type of coverage can kick in to cover the cost to replace lost or stolen items you brought on your trip. It can also provide coverage for the baggage itself. It's even possible that your travel insurance policy will pay for your flight home if damages are caused to your residence and your belongings while you're away, forcing you to return home immediately.

Travel medical insurance If you find yourself sick or injured while you are on vacation, emergency medical coverage can pay for your medical expenses. With that in mind, however, you will need to find out whether the travel medical insurance you buy is primary or secondary. Where a primary policy can be used right away to cover medical bills incurred while you travel, secondary coverage only provides reimbursement after you have exhausted other medical policies you have.

You will also need to know how the travel medical coverage you purchase deals with any preexisting conditions you have, including whether you will have any coverage for preexisting conditions at all. Read more about the best travel medical insurance plans .

Evacuation insurance Imagine you break your leg while on the side of a mountain in some far-flung land without quality health care. Not only would you need travel medical insurance coverage in that case, but you would also need coverage for the exorbitant expense involved in getting you off the side of a mountain and flying you home where you can receive appropriate medical care.

Evacuation coverage can come in handy if you need it, but you will want to make sure any coverage you buy comes with incredibly high limits. According to Squaremouth, an emergency evacuation can easily cost $25,000 in North America and up to $50,000 in Europe, so the site typically suggests customers buy policies with $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.

Cruise insurance Travel delays; missed connections, tours or excursions; and cruise ship disablement (when a ship encounters a mechanical issue and is unable to continue on in the journey) are just a few examples why cruise insurance can be a useful protection if you've booked a cruise vacation. Learn more about the top cruise insurance plans here .

Credit card travel insurance It is not uncommon to find credit cards that include trip cancellation and interruption coverage , trip delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage, travel accident insurance, and more. Cards that offer this coverage include popular options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card , the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card and The Platinum Card from American Express . 

Note that owning a credit card with travel insurance protection is not enough for your coverage to count: To take advantage of credit card travel insurance, you must pay for prepaid travel expenses like your airfare, hotel stay or cruise with that specific credit card. Also, note that credit cards with travel insurance have their own list of exclusions to watch out for. Many also require cardholders to pay an annual fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to buy travel insurance is normally within a few weeks of booking your trip since you may qualify for lower pricing if you book early. Keep in mind, some travel insurance providers allow you to purchase plans until the day before you depart.

Many times, you are given the option to purchase travel insurance when you book your airfare, accommodations or vacation package. Travel insurance and travel protection are frequently offered as add-ons for your trip, meaning you can pay for your vacation and some level of travel insurance at the same time.

However, many people choose to wait to buy travel insurance until after their entire vacation is booked and paid for. This helps travelers tally up all the underlying costs associated with a trip, and then choose their travel insurance provider and the level of coverage they want.

Figuring out where to buy travel insurance may be confusing but you can easily research and purchase travel insurance online these days. Some consumers prefer to shop around with a specific provider, such as Allianz or Travelex, but you can also shop and compare policies with a travel insurance platform. Popular options include:

• TravelInsurance.com: TravelInsurance.com offers travel insurance options from more than a dozen vetted insurance providers. Users can read reviews on the various travel insurance providers to find out more about previous travelers' experiences with them. Squaremouth: With Squaremouth, you can enter your trip details and compare more than 90 travel insurance plans from 20-plus providers.
• InsureMyTrip: InsureMyTrip works similarly, letting you shop around and compare plans from more than 20 travel insurance providers in one place. InsureMyTrip also offers several guarantees, including a Best Price Guarantee, a Best Plan Guarantee and a Money-Back Guarantee that promises a full refund if you decide you no longer need the plan you purchased.

Protect your trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance plans for the lowest price. Get a quote .

When you need to file a travel insurance claim, you should plan on explaining to your provider what happened to your trip and why you think your policy applies. If you planned to go on a Caribbean cruise, but your husband fell gravely ill the night before you were set to depart, you would need to explain that situation to your travel insurance company. Information you should share with your provider includes the details of why you're making a claim, who was involved and the exact circumstances of your loss.

Documentation is important, and your travel insurance provider will ask for proof of what happened. Required documentation for travel insurance typically includes any proof of a delay, receipts, copies of medical bills and more.

Most travel insurance companies let you file a claim using an online form, but some also allow you to file a claim by phone or via fax. Some travel insurance providers, such as Allianz and Travel Insured International, offer their own mobile apps you can use to buy policies and upload information or documents that substantiate your claim. In any case, you will need to provide the company with proof of your claim and the circumstances that caused it.

If your claim is initially denied, you may also need to answer some questions or submit some additional information that can highlight why you do, in fact, qualify.

Whatever you do, be honest and forthcoming with all the information in your claim. Also, be willing to provide more information or answer any questions when asked.

Travel insurance claims typically take four to six weeks to process once you file with your insurance company. However, with various flight delays and cancellations due to things like extreme weather and pilot shortages, more travelers have begun purchasing travel insurance, encountering trip issues and having to submit claims. The higher volume of claims submitted has resulted in slower turnaround times at some insurance companies.

The longer you take to file your travel insurance claim after a loss, the longer you will be waiting for reimbursement. Also note that, with many travel insurance providers, there is a time limit on how long you can submit claims after a trip. For example, with Allianz Travel Insurance and Travelex Insurance Services, you have 90 days from the date of your loss to file a claim.

You may be able to expedite the claim if you provide all the required information upfront, whereas the process could drag on longer than it needs to if you delay filing a claim or the company has to follow up with you to get more information.

Travel insurance is never required, and only you can decide whether or not it's right for you. Check out Is Travel Insurance Worth It? to see some common situations where it does (and doesn't) make sense.

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:

Carry-on Luggage and Personal Item Size Limits (2024)

Amanda Norcross

Just like checked bags, carry-on luggage size restrictions can vary by airline.

Bereavement Fares: 5 Airlines That Still Offer Discounts

Several airlines offer help in times of loss.

The Best Way to Renew a Passport in 2024

The proposed online passport renewal system is behind schedule.

13 Best Carry-on Luggage Pieces 2024 - We Tested Them All

Erin Evans and Rachael Hood and Catriona Kendall and Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in June 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

If you don't have sufficient travel insurance coverage via your credit card , you can supplement your policies with third-party plans.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers.

Top credit cards with travel insurance

Methodology

Best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

» Jump to the best cards with travel insurance

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Offers direct billing.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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 a similar note...

• Best overall
• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance in June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Our Picks for the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Best overall: nationwide travel insurance.

• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance

Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

How we rate travel insurance »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Travel Insurance Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Cruises: AIG Travel Guard

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review here.

Best for Reputation: C&F Travel Insured

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

While every travel insurance company has negative reviews about its claims process, C&F Travel Insured 's claims process has a consistent stream of positive reviews. One customer wrote that C&F processed a claim within 48 hours. Additionally, C&F regularly responds to customer reviews within one business week, making reviews a consistent way to reach the company.

Additionally, in C&F's fine print, it mentions that any claims that take more than 30 days to pay out will begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

C&F's reputation isn't the only thing to speak highly of. It offers an array of add-ons uncommon in the travel insurance industry, such as Interruption for Any Reason insurance and CFAR coverage for annual plans. C&F also offers discounts for children on its Protector Edge plan and free coverage on its Protector plan.  

Read our C&F Travel Insured review here. 

Best for Pre-Existing Conditions: Tin Leg Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Seven of Tin Leg's eight travel plans include coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment.

Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Digital Nomads: WorldTrips Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Affordability: Trawick International Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance  that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the U.S., but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the U.S. for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about how much emergency medical care while traveling will cost, even in the most remote corners of the globe. This coverage will often come in tandem with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short. You may also look for cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason options, which will reimburse you for a percentage of your nonrefundable fees, but expands the covered reasons you can cancel a trip. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance companies here.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Also, check websites that field customer reviews like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and InsureMyTrip , to see how well a company responds to customer requests.

Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering. While the ratings are important, you should also look at whether or not a company responds to customer complaints.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every traveler. Determine the benefits that are most important to you, like baggage delay coverage, medical coverage, and trip delay coverage, then look for a company with solid customer ratings, especially when it comes to processing claims.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences, as it varies wildly from company to company.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include travel medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, before you go.

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready

What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis

Information for U.S. Citizens about a U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuation

Traveler's Checklist

Safety and Security Messaging

Best Practices for Traveler Safety

Staying Connected

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Traveler Information

LGBTQI+ Travelers

Adventure Travel

High-Risk Area Travelers

Travelers with Dual Nationality

Journalist Travelers

Faith-Based Travelers

Pilgrimage Travelers (Hajj and Umrah)

U.S. Students Abroad

Cruise Ship Passengers

Women Travelers

Travelers with Disabilities

Older Travelers

U.S. Volunteers Abroad

Travelers with Pets

Travelers With Firearms

Travel Agents

Travel Safety - Race and Ethnicity

U.S. Travelers in Europe's Schengen Area

Your Health Abroad

Insurance Coverage Overseas

Driving and Road Safety Abroad

Customs and Import Restrictions

Information for U.S. Citizens in Russia – Travel Options Out of Russia

Lodging Safety

Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics

In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Learn about your destination

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Travel Insurance

The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Europe Explained

Updated: Nov 23, 2023, 1:13pm

Table of Contents

What is travel insurance for europe, what countries does travel insurance for europe cover, do travel insurance policies for europe cover covid-related risks, how do i find the best europe-only travel insurance, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Travelling from one side of Australia to another can be tricky enough, but crossing the globe to Europe can present challenges on a larger scale.

For those misfortunes that hit the wallet, there’s travel insurance for Europe. From tripping and breaking a leg in Belgium to losing your luggage en route to Lithuania, a policy for Europe can cover a broad range of unfortunate events.

As Australia shares a reciprocal healthcare agreement with a limited few European countries, travel insurance may provide the only means for travellers to cover the hundreds (and often thousands) of dollars emergency treatment can cost.

Given the distance, and the time you’d likely want to spend in Europe to make the trip worthwhile, travelling to the Continent likely won’t come cheap. However, with a suitable policy in place, you can have peace of mind that should an emergency—such as a family bereavement—cause you to cancel your plans, lost expenses can also be recouped.

We break down exactly how travel insurance for Europe works below.

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Once you’ve booked your European getaway, it may be tempting to put your holiday preparation on hold until you’re ready to start packing. However, taking out travel insurance can be a crucial next step to ensure you’re protected should anything go wrong with your trip.

When purchasing a policy, you’ll need to specify where you’re heading. If you’re taking a one-off trip within the space of 12 months, a single trip policy will do. When applying for this type of policy you may need to state the country or countries you’ll be visiting individually, or state your destination as ‘Europe’, depending on the insurer.

For cover for multiple trips throughout the year, you may want to opt for an annual multi-trip policy, which can be more cost-effective, and requires less paperwork than taking out an individual policy for each trip. Annual multi-trip policies usually provide cover for areas of the world, rather than specific destinations. Typically, insurers offer cover for Europe, or allow travellers to choose between worldwide cover that includes the US and neighbouring destinations or worldwide cover that excludes them.

The latter would cover your trips if not venturing to the US. This type of policy is typically the cheaper option owing to the lower medical and liability costs at destinations in parts of the world such as Europe, compared to North America.

Before taking out the policy it’s best to check your holiday destination is definitely covered by looking through the fine print, or contacting the provider, as definitions of ‘Europe’ can differ between insurers. Some may exclude countries such as Turkey, or cover destinations such as Egypt and Morocco under their policies for Europe.

What does travel insurance for Europe include?

Australia shares a reciprocal healthcare agreement with only a few European nations:

• The Netherlands;
• The Republic of Ireland;
• Sweden; and
• The United Kingdom.

While some medical costs are covered for Australians visiting these countries, other costs—such as private care or dental treatment—may not be. It’s therefore advisable to take out travel insurance to be safe.

With a basic policy in place, travellers can also claim for emergency medical treatment for injuries or illness, and medical evacuation and repatriation, while in other European countries not listed above.

Among a range of other benefits, travel insurance can cover the loss, theft, damage or delay of your baggage and personal possessions, and trip cancellation for reasons such as if you or a close one fall seriously ill, or a close relative or business partner dying.

Comprehensive policies usually offer a broader range of cover including, for example, personal accident cover should you sustain an injury during your trip that leads to permanent disability or death. They can also cover travel delay if your scheduled transport is late by at least 12 hours, or a minimum of six hours in some cases.They also usually provide higher cover levels.

Optional protection may be available to bolt-on to basic or comprehensive policies at an additional cost. This includes cover for lost or stolen devices and snow sports.

Many policies extend their medical cover to falling ill with Covid while away. They may also cover trip cancellation due to you, a travel companion or someone you were due to stay with contracting the virus. The full scope of cover can differ between policies and will be detailed in the fine print.

As particularly highlighted by the Carnival cruise company scandal, cruise ships can be a hotbed of illness, with large numbers of travellers confined to a limited space. If you do intend to take a cruise holiday, remember specific cover designed for this type of trip will be required. Many insurers offer it as an optional extra.

Related: Our Pick Of The Best Cruise Travel Insurance

It can help to shop around, rather than settling for the first policy you find, if you want a deal on cover.

Remember to compare the policy price, cover levels and the excess the policy levies. This is the set portion of each claim amount payable by the policyholder. The more expensive a policy, the lower the excess typically is.

To find our leading picks for comprehensive travel insurance policies, click here . You can also find out how to lower your travel insurance premiums in our guide to cheap travel insurance .

You can then run quotes on the insurers’ websites of your choice.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to purchase any travel insurance policy as soon as you have booked your holiday to be covered for trip cancellation as early as possible.

An insurer will likely reject any claims resulting from something that started, or took place, before you took out the policy.

Why do I need travel insurance in Europe?

Travel insurance is not compulsory for Australians travelling to Europe. However, it can be a useful financial tool, if you’re unsure how you would cover emergency costs or financial losses, if something should go wrong while you’re away. Emergency treatment abroad can be particularly costly, often amounting to hundreds and thousands of dollars.

How much travel insurance do I need for Europe?

The level of cover you choose should suit your personal requirements and travel plans.

Most travel insurance policies for Europe offer medical cover into the millions, if not an unlimited amount.

Your baggage cover limit should match the value of the belongings you are taking with you, while cover for trip cancellation should cover your total holiday costs.

What is Schengen travel insurance?

The 27 European countries which make up the Schengen area allow the free movement of their nationals across their internal borders without border controls.

Nationals from most other countries require visas to visit the Schengen area, and also are legally required to take out travel insurance specifically for their trip.

However, Australians are among the nationals of around 60 countries who can travel to the Schengen zone visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, and can therefore choose whether or not to purchase travel insurance.

A policy for Europe, or worldwide cover (excluding or including the US and surrounding countries) should cover a trip to any of the member countries, but it’s best to check the policy fine print to make sure your particular destination is covered.

The 27 Schengen countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Will travel insurance for Europe cover pre-existing conditions?

Only some insurers offer cover for pre-existing conditions. These are medical conditions that you had before taking out the policy.

When applying for travel insurance you will need to declare any pre-existing conditions you have. The insurer may charge more to cover you, reflecting the higher risk that you’ll claim for medical costs due to your condition.

If you withhold information, and later make a claim relating to the condition, it could invalidate your policy.

What is snow sports cover?

Europe is known for its numerous ski resorts. If you plan to hit the slopes, make sure you’re covered for snow sports.

This cover usually is offered as an optional extra to add to your policy. It is also available from specialist providers as standalone insurance.

Typically it covers lost or stolen equipment, compensates for avalanche or landslide disruption and pays out for piste closure, among other benefits.

Can I change my annual-multi trip cover for Europe?

When purchasing annual multi-trip cover you’ll need to know in advance which destinations you’ll be visiting over the next 12 months.

If you decide at a later date, you would rather have a worldwide policy that includes the US and surrounding destinations, for example, you should contact your insurer. They may be able to change your cover at an extra cost. If not, you would need to buy a new policy.

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Best Seniors Travel Insurance
• Best Domestic Travel Insurance
• Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• Best Family Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance Cost
• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
• Travel Insurance Cancellation Cover
• Travel Insurance For Bali
• Travel Insurance For Fiji
• Travel Insurance For The USA
• Travel Insurance For Thailand
• Travel Insurance For New Zealand
• Travel Insurance For Japan
• Travel Insurance For Singapore
• Travel Insurance For Indonesia
• Travel Insurance For Vietnam
• Travel Insurance For Canada
• Travel Insurance For South Africa
• Cover-More Travel Insurance Review
• Fast Cover Travel Insurance Review
• Travel Insurance Saver Review
• Allianz Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review
• 1Cover Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review
• Australia Post Comprehensive Travel Insurance Review
• Tick Travel Insurance Review

More from  

Travel insurance for the usa: a guide, best student travel insurance, travel insurance and covid: are you covered, top travel insurance tips for australians, our pick of the best comprehensive travel insurance providers in australia, do frequent flyer points expire.

I have been writing for newspapers, magazines and online publications for over 10 years. My passion is providing, in a way that is easily accessible and digestible to all, the knowledge needed for readers to not only manage their finances, but financially flourish.