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What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

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Table of Contents

What is covered by travel insurance

Extras you can add to a travel insurance policy, what does travel insurance not cover, how to pick the right policy for your trip, if you want to understand travel insurance coverage.

If something goes wrong during a trip, your savings account could take a serious hit if you don’t have travel insurance. Flight cancellations, lost baggage or an accident can throw a wrench into your carefully made plans and cost a lot to rectify.

On the other hand, knowing that your trip is protected can help put your mind at ease before, during and after a vacation. But exactly what does travel insurance cover? Let’s find out.

Most plans typically cover a range of trip protections, including accidental death and dismemberment, baggage delay or loss, emergency medical coverage and evacuation, trip cancellation, delay or interruption and more. Here's a closer look at each one.

Accidental death and dismemberment

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance provides coverage for death or losing a limb or eyesight as a result of an accident. Note that death from natural causes, illness or by suicide isn’t covered, so it’s not the same thing as a life insurance policy.

Baggage delay

Baggage delay insurance reimburses the cost of essentials, such as clothes, toiletries or a phone charger, that you may need to purchase if your bag is delayed. Your baggage must be delayed over a certain number of hours to receive coverage — typically the range is from six to 24 hours, depending on the policy.

Baggage loss

Insurance for baggage loss reimburses the cost of your suitcase and belongings should a checked bag become lost, stolen or damaged during a covered trip.

Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

This benefit covers the cost associated with medical evacuation if you have a medical emergency and you can’t be treated at the facility closest to you. It will cover transport costs to another hospital or your home country, if necessary, and also includes transportation of remains.

» Learn more: Travel medical insurance: Emergency coverage while you travel internationally

Missed connection

A missed connection benefit covers extra expenses if a common carrier delay causes you to miss an organized tour or a cruise, for example, and you need to pay extra to catch up to it at the next port of call.

Reinstate frequent traveler awards

If you paid for a trip with airline miles or hotel points and it is subsequently canceled, this benefit will cover any fees required to redeposit your rewards back to your frequent traveler account.

Trip cancellation

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for prepaid nonrefundable costs if you must cancel a trip for a covered reason. Reasons that are typically covered include:

Sickness or death of a family member.

Financial insolvency.

Natural disaster.

Airline strike.

Inclement weather.

Military duty.

Stolen passport or visa.

Loss of employment.

Trip delay covers costs associated with transportation, meals or lodging should your common carrier be delayed, as well as reimbursement of any prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. Trip delay coverage takes effect after a specified period of time depending on the policy, but typically ranges from five to 12 hours.

» Learn more: What you need to know about Chase’s trip delay insurance

Trip interruption

Trip interruption insurance reimburses you for unused, nonrefundable costs in the event you must cut the trip short and return home for a covered reason, including a family member’s sickness or death, terrorism, inclement weather or a natural disaster, among others.

Travel insurance plans usually don’t include coverage for every possible thing that can go wrong, but you can add optional extras to your policy for an upcharge. Check to see if your plan has the following types of coverage, and if you think you need it, you can add it in or buy a more inclusive policy.

Cancel For Any Reason

If you change your mind and decide not to go on a trip you’ve booked, you typically can’t get reimbursed for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses — unless you purchase a cancel for any reason policy separately. Depending on the policy, you usually get a portion of your prepaid expenses back (typically 50% to 75%), but you must purchase the policy within 10 to 21 days of initial payment. Note that cancel for any reason isn’t the same as trip cancellation listed above.

Rental car collision damage waiver

If your rental car is damaged or stolen, rental car insurance will protect you from having to pay for the damage or theft. Many credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , offer rental car collision damage insurance, so check whether the cards you hold have this benefit before adding it to a policy.

Pre-existing conditions

If you need coverage for a pre-existing medical condition, you must purchase a policy within the time specified by the insurance provider to be eligible for a pre-existing conditions waiver (usually ten to 21 days). Make sure that the coverage amount you enter is equal to all prepaid, nonrefundable costs for your trip.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Quarantine accommodations

This coverage is often part of trip delay insurance, but some providers include it and some don’t. For example, the Safe Travels Voyager plan offered by Trawick International covers lodging expenses in case you get sick with COVID-19 and have to quarantine abroad before flying home safely.

» Learn more: Travel insurance may not cover COVID-19 — unless you upgrade

Travel insurance offers coverage for many situations, but not all. Some scenarios aren’t covered by a travel policy, including:

A named storm: Most travel plans protect you from hassles stemming from inclement weather. However, a policy needs to be purchased before a tropical storm or weather event is named. If you purchase coverage after a natural disaster has begun, it won’t be covered.

Activities performed under the influence: Drug and alcohol use are a notable exception to most travel policies. If you fall off an ATV because you drank a few alcoholic beverages or took drugs before operating a vehicle, you’re no longer covered.

Extreme sports: Some high-risk sports, such as bungee jumping, scuba diving or rock climbing, aren’t covered by a comprehensive travel insurance plan. However, you can buy a separate policy for the specific adrenaline activities you’re planning to do on your vacation from World Nomads , for example.

Fear of travel because of a pandemic or another reason: This is something that would be covered under a “cancel for any reason” add-on, but a general travel policy won’t cover fear of travel.

Medical tourism: Seeking dental work in Mexico or a hair transplant in Turkey? Keep in mind that your medical expenses for elective procedures aren’t covered by a plan with emergency medical coverage.

Pregnancy: If you want to cancel a trip because you’re pregnant, you can do so only if you purchased the plan before you became pregnant. Otherwise, it’s not a covered reason. Additionally, medical costs incurred while on a trip during pregnancy might or might not be covered (check with your insurance provider).

» Learn more: What to know before you buy travel insurance

The length of trip, your age and the destination all factor into how much a policy will cost. The coverage types and their limits also influence the price tag.

Types of coverage and limits

Take a look at the terms of each policy and determine the type of coverage you need the most. Compare the coverage details and limits with the cost. If you hold a travel credit card , familiarize yourself with its benefits as some of the trip protections might be redundant.

Single trip vs. annual plan

For frequent travelers, an annual plan offers the most bang for your buck — it costs less money versus purchasing insurance for multiple single trips. An annual policy covers long international trips as well as short domestic trips in between, so you can have peace of mind all year long. But everything isn’t always included in a multi-trip plan, the coverage limits are lower and you may not be covered for pre-existing conditions.

Individual vs. family

When shopping for a quote, include everyone traveling in your party and their ages before you submit the trip details. Note that some insurance providers include free coverage for children 21 and younger if a parent is the primary policyholder.

» Learn more: 10 best travel insurance companies

Because coverage varies among the different insurance providers and policies, make sure to read over the policy terms carefully, especially if you’re looking for a specific type or amount of coverage.

If you’re still not sure whether a specific event or activity would be covered, call the insurance company and chat with a customer service representative. It’s better to be aware of what’s covered and what isn’t before you need to (but hopefully don’t have to) file a claim.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

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

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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What Is Travel Insurance?

Understanding travel insurance, how travel insurance works, comprehensive travel insurance.

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption

Damage and Baggage Losses Coverage

Rental insurance, travel health insurance.

• AD&D Coverage

Other Travel Insurance Coverage

How to get travel insurance, the bottom line.

• Personal Finance

What Is Travel Insurance, and What Does It Cover?

Julia Kagan is a financial/consumer journalist and former senior editor, personal finance, of Investopedia.

Jackyenjoyphotography / Getty Images

Travel insurance is a type of insurance covering financial losses associated with traveling, and it can be useful protection for domestic or international travel. Whether you missed your flight to Florida, lost your bags in Berlin, or broke your ankle in Ankara, the best travel insurance companies can help remedy all kinds of travel mishap costs.

Key Takeaways

• Travel insurance can be purchased online, from your tour operator, or from other sources.
• The main categories of travel insurance include trip cancellation or interruption coverage, baggage and personal effects coverage, rental property and rental car coverage, medical coverage, and accidental death coverage.
• Coverage often includes 24/7 emergency services, such as replacing lost passports, cash wire assistance, and rebooking canceled flights. 
• It's important to understand what's covered and what's not, and any limitations on coverage amounts and coverage requirements.

Travel insurance helps cover financial losses associated with surprise circumstances that could ruin a trip, including illness, injury, accidents, flight or other transportation delays, and other issues. This insurance costs 4% to 10% of a trip's price. So, for a $10,000 trip, trip insurance could cost between $400 and $1,000.

Premiums—or the price you pay for coverage—are based on the coverage type, your age, destination, trip cost, and more. Specialized policy riders focus on the needs of business travelers, athletes, and expatriates .

You may already have travel insurance coverage from your homeowners or renters insurance or your credit cards. Call your insurance agent to find out about your current travel coverage, and your credit card company to find out about any benefits you get when you purchase air or train tickets, rent a car, or book a hotel using the card. Many travel rewards cards come with built-in travel insurance and other travel benefits.

Travel insurance may be sold online by travel agents, travel suppliers (airlines, cruise lines), private insurance companies, or insurance brokers when booking your flight, accommodations, or car.  Travel insurance companies include AIG Travel, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, Generali Global Assistance, GeoBlue, Nationwide, and more.

Typically, you'll purchase coverage shortly after initial bookings for lodging, flights, or other transportation, activities, and rental cars. Some policies may require you to do so to retain full coverage. Here are some terms to know for travel insurance.

Primary and Secondary Coverage

If you buy travel insurance, you may have concurrent insurance coverage , meaning you're covered under more than one policy. When the travel coverage is primary, the travel insurance reimburses you first without needing to make a claim through another company—and sparing you potentially increased policy rates.

If the travel insurance coverage is secondary, you'll first need to attempt to file a claim with other coverage, such as an airline (lost baggage) or your own auto insurance (damaged car).

Coverage Requirements

There are usually stipulations spelled out on how you qualify for coverage. Your claim must fall under the types of coverage offered. For example, lost baggage insurance might include coverage for personal items, prescriptions, credit cards, and your passport or visa. You may also need to take extra steps to qualify for coverage, such as reporting the loss or theft to the police.

Policy Coverage Limits

This is the maximum amount you can receive for the claim. For example, you might only receive $500 per bag. You may not even receive more for expensive items such as jewelry or electronic devices. You might need to provide receipts for items over a certain amount. Without receipts, the insurer may only pay for repairs.

Some coverage might require you to pay a deductible, or flat amount, before covering the remainder of your claim up to the limit.

These are the conditions under which your coverage will not cover the loss. Each policy differs. For example, your baggage damage coverage may not cover losses caused by animals. It may exclude coverage of bicycles, hearing aids or other medical devices, keys, and tickets, or seizure by a government or customs official.

Pre-existing conditions may not be covered by travel medical insurance, or may only be covered if you buy a travel insurance plan within one to two weeks of booking your trip.

Comprehensive travel insurance includes many types of coverage listed below, bundled into one plan. Most commonly, comprehensive travel insurance bundles a 24-hour assistance line to help find doctors or get assistance in an emergency, reimburse you for trip cancellation , interruption and delay, baggage loss or delay, and medical expense and medical evacuation coverage.

Alternatively, you can purchase each coverage type separately. This may be wise if you already have coverage through other insurance or can cover your losses in many cases.

Trip Cancellation or Interruption Coverage

This insurance reimburses a traveler for some or all prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, and comes in the following forms:

• Trip cancellation : Reimburses you for paid travel expenses if you can't travel for a preapproved reason.
• Travel delay : Reimburses you for expenses if you can't travel because of a delay.
• Trip interruption : Reimburses you for travel costs if your trip is cut short.
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) : Reimburses you for a portion of costs if you cancel the trip for any reason; typically more expensive than the other types listed above.

With most of the above, acceptable cancellation and interruption causes and reimbursement amounts vary by provider. Acceptable reasons for a claim might include the following:  

• Your illness
• Illness or death in your immediate family
• Sudden business conflicts
• Weather-related issues
• Legal obligations such as jury duty

You may need to pay more or meet more requirements to file a claim for a cancellation due to financial default, terrorism in your destination city, or work reasons.

When traveling, register your travel plans with the State Department through its free  travel registration website , the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The nearest embassy or consulate can contact you if there is a family, state, or national emergency.

Baggage and personal belongings being lost, stolen, or damaged is a frequent travel problem—and can quickly ruin a trip as you must shop for replacements. Baggage and personal effects coverage protects lost, stolen, or damaged belongings during travel to, in, and from a destination.

However, many travel insurance policies pay for belongings only after you exhaust all other available claims. Baggage coverage may have many restrictions and exclusions, such as only covering up to $500 per item and $250 for each additional item. You may be able to increase or decrease amounts, shop around for coverage, or increase limits by paying more.

For example, the insurance may not pay for lost and damaged luggage due to airline fault. Most carriers, such as airlines, reimburse travelers if baggage is lost or destroyed due to the airline's error. However, there may be limitations on reimbursement amounts, so baggage and personal effects coverage provide an additional layer of protection.

Vacation rental insurance covers costs from accidental damage to a vacation rental property. Some plans also offer trip cancellation and interruption to help reimburse costs when you can't use your vacation rental. Some of these reasons could include the following:

• Lost or stolen keys
• Unsanitary or unsafe vacation property
• Vacation rental wasn't as advertised
• The company oversold your vacation rental

Rental car insurance covers a rental car's damage or loss while on a trip, taking the place of the rental agency's collision damage waiver (CDW) or your regular car insurance policy. Policies vary and may cover collisions, theft, vandalism, and other incidents. Rental car insurance may be a secondary policy to your own car insurance. However, it doesn't cover your liability or legal responsibility for damage or injury you cause to others.

Medical coverage can help with unexpected international medical and dental expenses, and help with locating doctors and healthcare facilities abroad. As with other policies, coverage will vary by price and provider.

• Foreign travel medical coverage : These policies range from five days to one year or longer, and cover costs arising from illness and injuries while traveling.
• Medical evacuation: May cover airlift travel to a medical facility and medical evacuation to receive care.

Consult with your current medical insurers before purchasing a policy to determine whether a policy extends its coverage outside the country. Most health insurance companies pay “customary and reasonable” hospital costs if you become sick or injured while traveling, but few will pay for a medical evacuation.

The U.S. government doesn't insure citizens or pay for medical expenses abroad . Before purchasing a policy, read the provisions to see what exclusions, such as preexisting medical conditions, apply. Don't assume that the new coverage mirrors that of your existing plan. Routine medical care is typically excluded unless you buy a long-term medical plan intended for expatriates, missionaries, maritime crew members, or others abroad for extended periods.

Medicare or Medicaid generally don't cover medical costs overseas unless you have specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans covering emergency overseas care.

Accidental Death and Dismembership (AD&D) Coverage

If an accident results in death or serious injury, an AD&D policy pays a lump sum to surviving beneficiaries or you for an injury. The insurance usually offers three parts, providing coverage for accidents and fatalities:

• Flight accident insurance: Occurring during flights on a licensed commercial airliner. 
• Common carrier: Resulting from public transportation such as train, ferry, or bus travel.
• General travel: Occurring at any point during a trip.

Exclusions that may apply include death caused by drug overdose or sickness. In addition, only some injuries may be covered, specifically hand, foot, limb, or eyesight. There are stated amount limits per injury.

Accidental death coverage may not be necessary if you already have a  life insurance  policy. However, benefits paid by your travel insurance coverage may be in addition to those paid by your life insurance policy, leaving more money to your beneficiaries. 

Depending on your plan or package selected, you may be able to add the following travel insurance types:

• Identity theft resolution services
• School activity coverage
• Destination wedding coverage
• Adventure sports coverage
• Pet health as a reason for cancellation or delay
• Hunting or fishing activities as a reason for cancellation or delay
• Missed flight connections

Travel insurance varies in cost, exclusions, and coverage. Coverage is available for single, multiple, and yearly trips. To get travel insurance, you fill out an insurance company's application about your trip, including the following:

• Travelers going
• Destination
• Travel dates
• Date of first payment toward your trip

The insurance company reviews the information using underwriting guidelines to guide issuing a policy and the rate. If it accepts your application, the company will issue a policy covering your trip. If the company rejects your application, you can apply with another insurer.

When you receive your policy, you'll typically get a 10- to 15-day review period to review the contract's fine details. If you don't like the policy, you can return it for a refund. Read through the document and ensure the plan you purchased doesn't apply too many loopholes, and that it covers:

• Emergency medical care and transport back to the U.S.
• High enough limits to cover your costs or damages
• Regions you're traveling to
• Your trip duration or number of trips
• All activities you plan to enjoy
• Preexisting conditions and people of your age

Also, read through for any exclusions. For example, types of property covered, and whether property lost or damaged by the airline is covered, and how.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

You might consider travel insurance if you can't afford to cancel and then rebook an expensive or long trip. You might also consider travel health insurance if your health insurance doesn't cover international costs. An alternative is to book an easily cancellable vacation—look for a pay-later hotel room and car rental options, flexible cancellation terms, and the ability to rebook without a fee.

What Is Not Covered by Travel Insurance?

Review the travel insurance policy to discover exclusions. According to NAIC, common travel policy exclusions are:

• A traveler's pre-existing health conditions
• Civil and political unrest at the traveler's destination
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Coverage for those engaging in adventure or dangerous activities.

Pandemics may also be excluded from coverage.

How Can I Get Cheap Travel Insurance?

Your  homeowners  or renters insurance may provide some protection for personal belongings, and airlines and cruise lines are responsible for loss and damage to your baggage during transport. Also, credit cards may provide automatic protection for things like delays and luggage or rental car accidents if used for deposits or other trip-related expenses.

The main types of travel insurance include trip cancellation or interruption coverage, baggage and personal effects coverage, medical expense coverage, and accidental death or flight accident coverage. Before buying a policy, check to see if you already have coverage through your own health or car insurance or a credit card.

Mass.gov. " Travel Insurance. "

Minnesota Department of Commerce. " Travel Insurance ."

U.S. Travel Insurance Association. " Frequently Asked Questions ."

Texas Department of Insurance. " Should You Get Travel Insurance? "

National Association of Insurance Commissioners. “ Taking a Trip? Information about Travel Insurance You Should Know Before You Hit the Road .”

U.S. Department of State. “ Your Health Abroad. ”

Medicare.gov. " Medicare Coverage Outside the United States ." Page 4.

Medicare.gov. " Medigap & Travel. "

NAIC. " Travel Insurance ."

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Is travel insurance worth it?

The right policy can protect your belongings, your bank account and your peace of mind..

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

On April 24, 2024, the White House established new rules for airlines , mandating automatic and timely refunds for passengers whose flights had been changed, delayed or canceled. That's a big relief to travelers, but there are still many unexpected situations where travel insurance can be a lifesaver before or during your trip.

"Travel insurance is often an overlooked investment until the unforeseen happens," says Beth Godlin, president of Aon Affinity Travel Practice . "It's designed to give travelers peace of mind and financial protection against travel risks."

A policy doesn't have to be expensive, according to Godlin, to add a layer of protection and security.

Getting travel insurance

How do i get travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover.

• New airline regulations in 2024

How much does travel insurance cost?

• Bottom line

There are many options in the travel insurance marketplace: Aggregator site Squaremouth lets you get price quotes from different carriers and, because it receives a commission from the insurance companies on its site, users aren't charged any additional fees.

Allianz has both single-trip and annual plans, with a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy that reimburses up to 80% of prepaid, non-refundable expenses. That's more than most similar plans on the market.

In addition to trip cancellation, Allianz's popular OneTrip Prime plan includes travel interruption, emergency medical care and emergency transportation. Children 17 and under are covered for free when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

AIG's Travel Guard® plans are great if you need to customize coverage: The mid-range Travel Guard Preferred plan pays out 100% for trip cancellation and 150% for trip interruption, with up to $50,000 in coverage for medical expenses and up to $500,000 for emergency evacuation. There's even a payout of up to $1,000 if you miss your connection.

Travel Guard® Travel Insurance

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

24/7 assistance available

If you're booking a trip with an aggregator site like Expedia , review the details of any travel policy that's offered. Plans are usually based on the elements of the trip (hotel, flight, rental car, etc.) and can differ every time you book.

Travel insurance generally covers your expenses, your belongings and your well-being. When shopping for a policy, look for these benefits:

Trip cancellation

If your trip is canceled for a covered reason, a policy will often reimburse airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, tours, cruises and other prepaid, non-refundable expenses. Covered situations can include illness or injury, the death of a family member or traveling companion, job loss, military deployment and even unplanned jury duty, according to Allianz's Daniel Durazo.

Cancellations can also be covered if a natural disaster, severe weather or airline strike prevents your carrier from getting you to your destination for at least 24 hours.

CFAR plans provide a lot more flexibility and typically reimburse 50% to 75% of your expenses. But they can bump up the cost by about 40%, said Durazo. Policyholders are also still usually required to cancel no later than 48 hours before their scheduled departure. 

Trip delay 

Should you experience a hiccup in your plans, your policy can provide some relief: Food, lodging and local transportation are usually covered if a delay is due to severe weather, airline maintenance or civil unrest.

"For a traveler to be eligible, they must be delayed for the minimum amount of time listed on their policy," said Squaremouth spokesperson Megan Moncrief. "Some policies are very lenient and provide benefits for any length delay, while others list a length requirement — usually somewhere between three to 12 hours."

Daily payout limits range from $150 to $250 per traveler, according to Moncrief, while the total policy limit can be anywhere from $500 to $2,000. Save any receipts to submit with your reimbursement claim.

Don't miss: The best credit cards with trip delay insurance

Trip interruption

Should you need to cut your trip short due to illness or injury, or if there's a family emergency back home, your policy may reimburse non-refundable expenses you forfeited.

It may also cover the cost of a one-way economy airline ticket home.

Baggage loss

Airlines are required to compensate passengers for luggage lost in transit, but a travel insurance policy may have a higher benefit limit. It could also cover you if your bags, passport or other possessions are lost, damaged or stolen once you've gotten to your destination., The Platinum plan from AXA Assistance USA has a $3,000 benefit limit for lost luggage, well beyond the $1,700 that airlines are required to provide on international flights. AXA has offices in more than 50 countries, with multilingual operators available 24 hours a day to help reschedule flights, book hotels and make other arrangements.

AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

Travel insurance doesn't cover every loss: Cash is not reimbursable and many policies won't reimburse for expensive jewelry or heirloom items. Read your policy carefully to see what is included.

Medical expenses and emergency evacuation

If you travel within the U.S., your health insurance should cover any illness or injury you sustain. If you're traveling abroad, though, your plan may provide little or no coverage. The right travel insurance should cover doctors' fees and hospital bills, Durazo said. 

The provider can also help coordinate care and ensure you're at a medical facility that's up to U.S. standards.

An emergency medical evacuation can cost anywhere from $15,000 to over $200,000, Durazo added.

New airline regulations in April 2024

The Biden administration announced on April 24, 2024 , that it had finalized new rules requiring airlines to issue cash refunds to passengers if their flights were canceled or significantly changed, their checked luggage was significantly delayed or if purchased services, like Wi-Fi, were not provided.

Refunds must be automatic and made via the same form of payment as the original purchase. Travelers must be reimbursed within seven business days if the refund is going to a credit card. (Other forms of payment can take 20 calendar days to be reimbursed.)   The new Department of Transportation regulations also require airlines and ticket agents to disclose upfront any fees for changing or canceling your reservation, seat selection, checked bags or carry-ons. The Biden administration has targeted junk fees across numerous industries, including credit card companies. It said the rule will help consumers avoid unneeded or surprise charges that can quickly add up and obscure the real cost of a seemingly inexpensive ticket.

A travel insurance policy typically costs between 4 and 10% of the overall price of your trip. The cost can vary:

• Plans with higher limits and more optional coverage cost more.
• A plan with a CFAR benefit can cost up to 40% more.
• Older travelers typically pay more because there's more of a likelihood of a claim being filed. 

Whichever plan you choose, read the fine print so you understand what you're paying for.

While regulations on airlines are becoming increasingly stringent about reimbursing travelers for delayed or canceled flights, that doesn't do you any good if it wasn't the airline that put a kink in your plans. Travel insurance covers numerous scenarios, from medical emergencies to tropical storms. It could be particularly useful if:

• You've spent a lot on prepaid, non-refundable expenses
• You're traveling internationally where your health insurance won't apply
• You're traveling to a remote area
• Your flight involves multiple connections or destinations

"When deciding if travel insurance is right for you, ask yourself how much you could stand to lose if you had to cancel at the last minute," said Godlin.

If you're not as concerned about risk, your credit card may offer built-in travel protection if you book with that card: Chase Sapphire Preferred® , Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Card and the  *American Express® Gold Card all come with trip cancellation and interruption coverage, among other benefits.

*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Regular APR

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Balance transfer fee

5%, minimum $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare; 2X points on internet, cable and phone services; select streaming. 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

21.49% - 28.49% variable

Foreign transaction fees

Excellent/Good

American Express® Gold Card

4X Membership Rewards® points at Restaurants (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Not applicable

See Pay Over Time APR

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our American Express® Gold Card review .

Research your card's travel benefits before making any purchases related to your trip.

Policies vary, but most comprehensive plans cover travel cancellation and interruption, baggage loss, medical care and emergency transportation.

While the price for coverage varies, most policies cost between 4% and 10% of the trip's prepaid, non-refundable expenses.

When should I get travel insurance?

It's best to take out a policy within days of making your reservations.

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

If you contract COVID-19 before or on your trip, it may be covered by your policy's trip cancellation/interruption benefit . You'll likely have to confirm your test results with a diagnosis from a healthcare provider.

Bottom line 

Travel can be a wonderful experience, but it involves a lot of time, planning and money. Missing a single connection can have a cascade effect that impacts your flight, hotel room, dinner reservations and more. A good travel insurance policy can provide peace of mind so you can focus on your vacation.

Compare and find the best life insurance

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Meet our experts

At CNBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority. For this story, we interviewed Beth Godlin, president of Aon, which provides custom travel insurance for tour operators, cruise lines, travel websites and others. We also spoke with former Squaremouth Megan Moncrief and Allianz communications director Daniel Durazo.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every insurance article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors . While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees for the American Express® Gold Card , click here .

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International Travel Insurance

Before you make a purchase, though, you should make sure your questions are answered. What does international travel insurance cover? How much does it cost? Why is it important to both US and non-US citizens, and which are the best plans for global travelers? We’ve done a lot of the legwork for you, so you can have one less thing to worry about as you plan your adventure abroad.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

The short answer is a big resounding yes. A 2018 survey conducted for the US Travel Insurance Association (USTIA) revealed that only 22% of Americans — or roughly one out of five — whose travels were impacted by medical conditions, natural disasters, and other events had a quality plan to cover their needs. Post Covid, that percentage has increased to 38% according to Business Insider. This is a huge gamble on your vacation investment if you go abroad without being prepared for any crisis. But one problem is that most people don’t have a sense of what good travel insurance is, or covers. We will address those questions below.

What Is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a blanket term for coverage that protects either your health, your travel expenses, your belongings, your travel plans or all of the above. Depending on the type you select, you can recoup your money if your trip is canceled, have lost luggage found or replaced, get top-flight medical care wherever you are in the world or be covered for risky activities like parasailing, scuba diving or rock climbing.

The most important benefit comes from travel health coverage, which will cover whatever isn’t included in your domestic health plan.

Pro Tip : Visit our Plan Picker to find the best plan for your situation.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance companies can cover many different types of unexpected difficulties, from losing your luggage to breaking your leg while skiing. However, most travel insurance plans do one of two things.

What are the two basic types of travel insurance?

The two main types of plans are trip cancellation and travel medical insurance .

Trip cancellation protects you if you need to cancel your trip while offering the additional benefits included in a travel medical plan detailed below. These policies usually cover the cost of the trip, with some additional benefits (lost luggage, trip delay, etc.). With trip cancellation, you can recoup most of the money that you spent on the trip, so long as the cancellation happens for “covered reasons,” which differ depending on the policy. These plans are short-term insurance solutions, usually available for a period of between 1 to 90 days.

Related: Cancel for Any Reason Plans

Travel medical insurance is designed to fill the gaps in your existing domestic health care plan that are not covered when you travel abroad. A short-term international medical policy gives you access to a global network of doctors, emergency assistance services, and translators who will help you in a medical emergency. Travel health insurance will cover your expenses for illness and medical emergencies while traveling, along with the additional benefits like trip cancellation mentioned above. This type of coverage is usually available for between 5 days and one year and can be renewable for additional periods up to a maximum of 3 years.

How Does Travel Insurance Work?

With both types of policies, you can receive a quote, apply, and purchase online. Costs will vary depending on your age, the cost of your trip, the total amount of coverage you select, and any deductible you choose. Once you are confirmed with the coverage, you will receive your plan documents with instructions on how to use the policy if the need arises.

What Kind of Insurance Do I Need for International Travel?

Especially in today’s climate, with pandemics, natural disasters and other unexpected obstacles, your plans for international travel can change at any time. And if they don’t change, accidents can happen. It’s harder to get medical care when you’re far from home, and the costs can really add up — for you, and for your family.

With trip cancellation coverage you can recoup most of the money that you spent on the trip. And travel medical plans will cover your expenses for illness and medical emergencies that occur while traveling. Our licensed advisors can also help you find the best medical care available where you’re going, connect you with doctors that speak your language, and arrange for transport home if things get really serious.

How Many Days Before a Trip Should You Buy Travel Insurance?

While plans can be purchased up to one day prior to departure , with certain travel insurance companies you should plan ahead farther than that! For example, some plans need you to purchase coverage at least two weeks prior to departure to ensure that your plan is active and will cover you for the duration of your travels. When working with one of our brokers and comparing travel insurance plans, make sure to check with them about the best time to buy.

Travel Coverage Options

We offer travel insurance plans for those traveling within their own countries, but most of our offerings are for international travel. Here are some of the best plan options we offer.

Will Travel Insurance Cover Cancellation?

Imagine having saved up for your vacation and you're all ready to head off when disaster strikes and the airline you are flying goes bankrupt! Or investing thousands of dollars for your dream to travel overseas when you are suddenly laid off from your job! These and various calamities can happen, and we can never plan for all eventual outcomes. However, if you purchase a travel policy, you can protect your investment if you need to make changes and cancel your plans under any circumstances.

Trip Cancellation - Covers the cost of your trip with some additional benefits (emergency medical, trip interruption, lost luggage, trip delay, etc.)

We recommend two main plans for trip cancellation coverage. The Safe Travel Voyager plan is excellent for US citizens traveling abroad. The WorldNomads plan is our recommended plan for people who reside outside of the USA.

Safe Travels Voyager

• Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and post-departure travel coverage
• Cancel for Any Reason available
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical coverage

World Nomads Travel Insurance

• Coverage for 200+ adventure activities
• Generous benefits for lost and stolen bags and gear
• 24/7 emergency assistance

Recommended International Travel Medical Policies

Travel Medical Insurance - Covers emergency medical expenses as well as other risks for visits of less than a year, whether you’re a US citizen traveling overseas or visiting the US from abroad. Additional benefits include trip interruption, medical evacuation, repatriation, and more.

• Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
• Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
• Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
• 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance

• Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
• IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
• Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest

International Plans for US Citizens

Different plans cover citizens of different countries, and we recommend particular plans for US citizens traveling abroad. The Voyager Plan product is a premium option. Alternatively, the Atlas Travel policy provides similar benefits at a more affordable rate. Seven Corners is also affordable for US citizens and provides comprehensive protection.

GeoBlue Voyager Plan

• For U.S. citizens up to age 95
• Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
• 24/7/365 service and assistance

Additional Plan Options

For some travelers, simple medical coverage or trip cancellation might not be enough. If you enjoy extreme sports, are visiting a dangerous location, or want backpacking insurance, you might want to add some things to your policy. Check out these articles on more comprehensive travel insurance.

• Emergency Evacuation - Assistance and transportation to the most appropriate hospital in an emergency situation
• Extreme Sports Coverage - Coverage for participants in Adventure or Extreme Sports
• Visitors Insurance - Cover for those visiting a friend or family member abroad

Related: International Health Insurance - Long-term health benefits, also known as expatriate insurance , for international citizens living abroad for a year or more

Do You Need Travel Insurance for International Trips?

It’s a really great idea to have travel health insurance. Even if your domestic plan provides some coverage while you are abroad, you may have to pay “out of pocket” for your expenses until you get reimbursed by your current provider. Most health insurance for travel abroad pays or reimburses you directly and more efficiently.

One of the biggest hurdles when filing a claim is working with foreign hospitals and translating the documents related to your healthcare. International travel insurance companies have expertise in working with these situations. They make international assistance call centers do the translation so that communication problems are resolved more quickly.

Related: Best Travel Insurance Companies

Here are other situations where it pays to have travel cancellation protection as well.

For instance, say you have saved up for a vacation and are all ready to head off to your destination when disaster strikes. Out of nowhere, a hurricane hits the coast you’re supposed to be sunning yourself on, the island loses power, and the hotel can’t receive guests. What will you do in this situation? How will you recover the money you spent on lodging?

Another situation goes like this. You have invested thousands in your planned overseas travel when someone in your family gets in an accident and can no longer go. How can you get your money back in this situation?

These are just some of the possibilities that can occur unexpectedly. There are a wide variety of calamities that can happen and you can never plan for all possible outcomes. But if you buy a travel policy, you can protect your investments, make changes to your trip, or cancel your plans for whatever valid reason it may be, and still get the insured amount like nothing happened.

How Much Does International Travel Insurance Cost?

The cost of a quality global travel insurance plan will vary based on several factors. As outlined above, policies that include trip cancellation will be more expensive. A good travel cancellation insurance plan will run you approximately 5% of your overall trip cost — more if you are older, less if you are younger.

Estimated costs of a travel health plan, including trip cancelation coverage for a 40-year-old traveling for 30 days (outside of the USA) with an entire trip worth $5,000:

• Travel Medical plan with Trip Cancellation: $337  ($11 /day)*
• Travel Medical plan with Trip Cancellation and Cancel for Any Reason coverage: $569  ($19 /day)*

The costs above were calculated based on Trawick's Safe Travels Voyager plan (Available to U.S. Citizens Only)

There is also an option to buy coverage on a daily or monthly basis. Costs range from $1-5 per day or more, depending on your age, your trip details, and the overall benefits package you select. Plans with a lower medical limit and high deductible will cost less, and vice-versa.

*Rates were last updated on April 10, 2024.

Is My US Health Insurance Valid Internationally?

Most of the time, the answer to this question is “no.” While you may be able to get your US policy to reimburse you for medical expenses abroad, it may take a long time, and you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket until then. Health insurance for travel abroad means that you don’t have to worry about whether you’ll be covered if the worst happens.

We selected the following plans for a combination of great service and affordable pricing. There are less expensive options that do not offer the same level of service. The options below offer the best value.

Get Travel Medical Insurance for US Citizens Abroad

Best trip insurance plan for us citizens, international medical travel insurance for non-us citizens traveling abroad.

Below is an excellent plan for those living outside of the USA. This option is affordable yet comes with excellent benefits and a high level of service.

For internationals living outside of the USA and traveling abroad, consider the WorldNomads plans, including trip cancellation coverage if needed.

International Plans for Students

International Student Plans are available to anyone studying in a foreign country, including their family. You may purchase a student policy on your own as an alternative to the plan your school offers since in some cases, these are more affordable yet more comprehensive. This option often makes more sense for older students, OPT Visa Holders , married students, or students with families.

• Provides Medical, Dental, Evacuation and other Benefits
• Keep your coverage when your studies last multiple years
• Medical providers are available in over 130 countries worldwide

Plans with COVID-19 Coverage (Coronavirus Cover)

We are happy to introduce the Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 (Coronavirus) the same as any other illness up to age 64. This plan protects you if you contract COVID-19 while on an international trip.

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance

• Comprehensive medical coverage with benefits up to $5,000,000.
• Adventure activities coverage available.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation protection up to $500,000.

International Plans for Groups

For a group of 5 or more travelers, including corporate , non-profit , missionary , or other groups, we can design comprehensive plans at affordable rates to meet your specific needs. We work with various providers to help you review and compare multiple plans and find the one that best fits your organizational needs. Learn More about International Group Insurance Plans or Request a Group Quote .

Related: Group Travel insurance Plans

Questions to Ask When Buying Your Policy

As you have seen from the different types of travel protection plans outlined above, not all are the same in terms of coverage. Some are more comprehensive, and some benefits can be purchased as add-ons (or riders) to cover extreme sports or additional medical evacuation benefits. With these in mind, here are some considerations when purchasing a plan.

Coverage Requirements

• Do I need preauthorization before receiving treatment, hospital admission or other medical services?
• Do I need a second opinion before I can receive emergency treatment?
• What are company policies regarding coverage of care received “out of network”?
• Does the company provide policyholders access to a 24/7/365 physician-backed support center?

Potential Exclusions

• Does this policy include/exclude coverage for treatment of injuries sustained while participating in high-risk activities (e.g. skydiving, scuba diving and mountain climbing)?
• Does this policy include/exclude coverage for psychiatric emergencies?
• Does this policy include/exclude coverage for treatment of injuries related to terrorist attacks, acts of war or natural disasters?

Preexisting Medical Conditions

• Does this policy cover exacerbations of preexisting medical conditions?
• Does this policy cover complications of pregnancy and/or neonatal intensive care?

Source: CDC

Related: Travel Insurance Buying Tips

Why Would You Want Travel Insurance? Debunking Coverage Myths

Myth 1: i don’t need to buy it because i’m already covered..

People often think their health or homeowners policies, credit cards, and other means will fully cover them in case of travel emergencies. However, neither health, homeowners, nor most credit card insurance policies reimburse non-refundable travel payments if you need to cancel a trip because of illness. Likewise, domestic health policies may not cover medical evacuation , especially abroad, nor will other types of coverage help reimburse emergency expenses for accommodations and incidentals if your plans are interrupted or delayed because of a natural catastrophe. According to a survey conducted by the USTIA, no single source provides the full spectrum of coverage and services that comprehensive coverage will provide.

Myth 2: Nothing will happen to me.

One in six Americans (17%) say their trip details and schedules have been impacted by medical conditions, natural disasters including severe weather, or mechanical or carrier-caused problems, according to another survey for USTIA. When unforeseen events — from medical emergencies to a lost passport to being caught in a storm — derail a trip, a good plan will provide financial coverage and medical services. Consider that a medical evacuation alone could cost up to $100,000 or more. Travel insurance companies also provide a support network to assist you, from coordinating emergency medical care to helping locate overnight accommodations, obtaining paperwork for lost or stolen passports, and more.

Myth 3: My pre-existing condition won’t be covered.

Some policies cover pre-existing conditions if the policy is purchased within a set amount of time — usually two weeks — following the initial trip payment. Since requirements may vary, UStiA suggests travelers check with their travel insurance company .

Myth 4: My policy won’t cover me if something happens to my family or traveling companion.

Most policies cover trip cancellation or interruption due to an unforeseen family illness or injury back home. Likewise, policies usually cover trip cancellation, interruption, or delay due to illness or injury of a traveling companion..

Myth 5: I can always get a refund from my travel supplier.

Refund policies vary among travel suppliers like airlines, hotels, resorts, cruises, and tours. Many low-cost airfares, for instance, are nonrefundable. Resorts, hotels, cruises, and tours have a non-refundable deposit and payment rules for reservations not canceled within a certain time. Without trip insurance , travelers risk losing all or part of their deposits and payments if they have to cancel for a covered reason. Some travel suppliers provide a waiver allowing travelers to rebook their trip within a given time frame. However, the right policies will refund unused non-refundable payments without requiring the traveler to rebook their vacation arrangements.

Myth 6: Travel insurance is only cancellation coverage.

Policies typically cover far more than cancellation. It covers the entire trip from beginning to end, including interruptions or delays due to illness, injury, severe weather, and more. Travel medical insurance covers medical expenses for emergencies during the trip. It provides assistance services, such as locating legal aid, help in replacing lost or stolen documents, finding emergency hotel accommodations, and more.

To help dispel misconceptions about the need for travel protection, here are some common myths explained.

Your Peace of Mind is Priceless

Securing coverage should be at the top of your travel checklist before going on your international trip. You don’t want that nagging worry while enjoying your dream vacation just because you haven’t made a contingency plan if you suddenly fall on bad luck.

International Citizens Insurance is the premier provider of international insurance plans. Don't be overwhelmed by our wide range of products, as we have licensed brokers who are always available to walk you through the process and help you find the policy that will fit all your needs.

Research, Compare Plans , and Buy Online before you go!

Our Recommended Individual International Plans

Trip Cancellation   |  Free Quote / Apply Travel Medical Plans  |  Free Quote / Apply International Health Insurance   |  Free Quote / Apply Annual & Multi-Trip Insurance Options   |  Free Quote / Apply

Advice for Buying Travel Insurance

Author: Joe Cronin , Founder and President of International Citizens Insurance . Mr. Cronin, a former expat, is an authority in the areas of international travel, and global health, life, and travel insurance, with expertise in advising individuals and groups on benefits for today's global workforce. Follow him on LinkedIn or Twitter .

Get a fast, free, international insurance quote.

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International travel insurance

By   Allstate

Last updated : January 1

plan your next vacation with protection in mind

What is international travel insurance, what does international travel insurance typically cover.

International travel insurance can cover a variety of scenarios that you may encounter during your travels. Each policy can vary based on location, activities and mode of travel, but here are some common covered circumstances.

International medical expenses

Falling ill or getting injured in a foreign country can be a daunting experience, especially with unfamiliar healthcare systems. International medical insurance typically covers your medical expenses, giving you access to quality treatment without the burden of hefty bills.

Trip cancellation/interruption

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes, unforeseen circumstances may force you to cancel or cut short your trip. With travel insurance, you can recover the non-refundable expenses incurred due to trip cancellations or interruptions.

Lost baggage

Misplaced luggage can be a significant loss during your travels. Some travel insurance plans offer compensation for lost or delayed baggage so you can replace your essentials and carry on with your journey.

Flight delays can disrupt your travel plans and lead to unexpected expenses. Some international travel insurance plans can help cover such delays, providing you with the financial support needed to cope with unforeseen events.

Emergency assistance

When you're in a foreign country, language barriers and unfamiliar surroundings can add to the stress during emergencies. Travel insurance often offers 24/7 emergency assistance, giving you the tools to navigate your situation regardless of the language barrier.

Coverage for cruises, planes and cars

In most circumstances, no matter how you choose to travel, there are travel insurance options available to you. These plans can help give you a sense of security and cover some of the most common issues that occur based on your mode of travel.

Cruise coverage

Cruise insurance can help cover your water-bound adventure from start to finish. This can include coverage for cancellations, inconveniences during travel, medical expenses, baggage losses, and even lodging in some plans.

Flight coverage

Flights are the most common mode of international travel, and flight coverage ensures you're protected from flight-related mishaps, such as cancellations, delays and lost baggage.

Rental car coverage

Exploring foreign destinations by car can offer a sense of freedom, but accidents can happen. Travel insurance can help cover the cost of rental car damage or theft, allowing you to enjoy your road trips worry-free.

Customizable plans

One of the greatest advantages of international travel insurance is its flexibility. Most insurers offer various customizable plans to suit your specific needs. If you are adventurous, you can get coverage for some of your higher-risk activities, while leisure travelers can stick to basic coverage.

Single trip or annual coverage

In addition to coverage for single international trips, some insurers also offer annual coverage for international travel. This option can help frequent travelers simplify their travel arrangements and provide them the peace of mind of consistent coverage.

Additional add-ons

Travel insurance companies offer add-ons to enhance your coverage, such as hazardous activities coverage, sports-related coverage, or coverage for high-value belongings.

Is international travel insurance necessary?

While international travel insurance isn’t required in most cases, it can help provide protection in unexpected situations that may become even more difficult to navigate in an unfamiliar environment.

Help when and where you need it

Navigating unexpected circumstances when traveling abroad can be difficult. Insurance providers often have access to an extensive network of international partners that can provide you with seamless support on your trip. Whether you need medical evacuation, translation services, or help during critical situations, these networks can provide you with an extra layer of support.

Where can I get international travel insurance?

Many reputable insurers offer comprehensive international travel insurance plans. Prospective international travelers should always do their research and make sure that they are getting the best coverage for their destination and activities.

International travel insurance FAQs

Is international travel insurance mandatory in some countries, can i purchase international travel insurance after booking my trip, does international travel insurance typically cover pre-existing medical conditions, does international travel insurance cover my relatives, can i extend my international travel insurance coverage if my trip gets extended.

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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

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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.

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• Travel Advice
• General Information

Getting Medical Insurance For Your Next Trip Abroad

Last Updated: May 8, 2024

Suffering a medical emergency in a foreign country is a common fear among travelers. In a recent Squaremouth survey of over 5,000 vacationers, more than 52% of respondents revealed their biggest travel concern was getting sick or injured during their upcoming trip.

Travelers have every right to be fearful. Since most U.S. health insurance plans offer limited to no coverage abroad, receiving medical care overseas can result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.

If you’re traveling internationally and want medical coverage, we highly recommend that you consider Travel Medical Insurance .

What is Travel Medical Insurance?

Travel Medical Insurance is a type of travel insurance that’s specifically designed to cover unforeseen medical emergencies that may arise during a trip. If you experience an unexpected injury or illness, for example, your insurance provider will reimburse your related medical expenses up to the plan’s coverage limit.

Most international travel medical insurance policies will typically cover expenses like ambulance rides, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor visits, x-rays, prescription medications, emergency medical evacuations, and other unexpected medical expenses.

Why is it Important?

If you’re a U.S. citizen, it’s likely your primary health care plan, such as Medicare or an employer sponsored policy, won’t cover overseas medical care. Without proper coverage, you’re responsible for paying all medical costs out-of-pocket.

Travel Medical Insurance acts as an international health insurance plan, offering reimbursement for unexpected medical bills during your trip abroad. While it’s likely that you may not ever need to use your plan, it may be worth the investment for the peace of mind alone.

How Much Does Travel Medical Insurance Cost?

There’s a common misconception that travel insurance is expensive. While this can be true for some policies, it’s very possible to find affordable health coverage for your next vacation that doesn’t break the bank.

According to Squaremouth data, the average cost of Travel Medical Insurance is roughly $97. Many of these plans also include protection against other travel disruptions, including delays, missed connections, baggage loss, and more.

Keep in mind that pricing can vary from one travel insurance provider to the next, so it’s important to shop around. Typically, providers price policies based on several risk factors including, but not limited to:

• The age of the travelers covered by the policy
• Your trip length
• Your destination
• Your trip costs
• The type of coverage you choose ( single-trip vs. Annual)
• The coverage limits found within the policy
• Any add-ons you choose to include

Medical Benefits Offered by Travel Insurance

When comparing travel insurance policies, the most important thing to look at is the coverage they each provide. Luckily, the majority of plans offer medical benefits that provide coverage overseas.

If your main concern is getting sick or injured during your trip, we recommend paying close attention to the following benefits:

Emergency Medical

Emergency Medical is one of the most important benefits among travel insurance customers. It covers the cost of unexpected medical bills you may encounter at any point during your trip. Due to the potentially high costs involved with seeking medical care abroad, we suggest you consider policies with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage.

Be mindful that some travel insurance providers may have you pay a medical deductible before coverage kicks in. While rare, Medical Deductibles can range from $50 to $2,500.

Medical Evacuation

If you get seriously sick or hurt while overseas, there’s a chance that the nearest medical facility won’t be the best one equipped to treat you. If a treating physician deems it necessary, the Medical Evacuation benefit will cover emergency transportation to another, more adequate medical facility or back to your home country.

The cost of a medical evacuation can quickly escalate in the tens, sometimes hundreds, of thousands of dollars. For that reason, we recommend policies that offer at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage.

Pre-Existing Condition

Traveling with a pre-existing medical condition can be a tough task, especially if flare ups are likely to occur. While most travel insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage, some providers offer what’s called a “Pre-Existing Condition Waiver.”

This waiver essentially extends your travel medical insurance to include coverage for conditions and illnesses that were present when you purchased your plan. Pre-Existing Condition coverage is a time-sensitive benefit, meaning to qualify you must buy your policy 10-14 days after making an initial trip payment.

Cancel for Medical Reasons

A medical emergency can occur at any time, even before you depart for your trip. Most comprehensive travel insurance plans include Trip Cancellation coverage that allows you to cancel your trip due to medical reasons and be reimbursed up to 100% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

Under most plans, covered medical reasons to cancel a trip include unforeseen illnesses, injuries, or death in the family. When filing a claim, you may be required to provide documentation to support your reason for cancellation.

24-Hour Emergency Assistance

The best travel insurance companies offer 24-Hour Emergency Assistance to their policyholders. Through this service, you can get support for a wide-range of challenges you may encounter while traveling, especially when it concerns health care. Examples include:

• Overseas medical referrals
• Arrangement of medical evacuations or repatriations
• Medical claims support

How to Find the Best Medical Coverage For Your Next Trip:

There are more travel insurance policies available today than ever before. Knowing what you’re looking for and where to find it can make your search for international health insurance much more straightforward.

Below are a handful of our top tips that may be helpful to you as you evaluate your insurance options.

Determine How Much Medical Coverage You Need

As a baseline, you should be looking at policies with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and at least $100,000 in Emergency Evacuation coverage for trips abroad. However, you may want even more health insurance coverage depending on your destination, your itinerary, and other trip details.

For example, travelers heading on a weeklong beach trip to Mexico may not need as much medical coverage as someone going backpacking in the Himalayan Mountains for a month.

It’s also important to take inventory of existing travel health insurance you may already have. Take some time to read through your primary health insurance policy to see if it offers coverage overseas. While rare, some travel credit cards may also include medical benefits.

Compare Plans From Multiple Insurance Providers

The only way to guarantee you’re getting the best plan is to get a quote from multiple travel insurance providers. You’ll be shocked at how much pricing can vary from one company to the next for similar coverage. In general, getting quotes from 3-5 providers is a good start.

You can do this manually or save time by using a travel insurance comparison website like Squaremouth. Whichever way you choose, be sure to pay close attention to each policy’s premium and medical coverage limits to determine which best fits your budget and travel needs.

Review Policy Exclusions & Limitations

Not all medical emergencies will be covered by insurance. Each travel medical insurance plan will have its own set of exclusions, which can be found in the Policy Details, that outlines what activities or scenarios would not be eligible for reimbursement.

While these exclusions will vary, most travel insurance providers won’t cover medical expenses that stem from:

• Participation in an inherently dangerous sport or activity
• Self-inflicted harm
• Pre-existing medical conditions (unless stated otherwise)
• Intoxication from alcohol or illegal substances
• Routine physicals or checkups
• Normal pregnancy or childbirth

Frequent Traveler? Consider an Annual Travel Insurance Plan

If you’re a frequent business or leisure traveler, it may be wise to consider an Annual travel insurance plan . Also known as “Multi-Trip Insurance,” this type of coverage offers trip protection for a 12-month span, no matter how many trips you decide to take during that period.

Annual plans can be cost-effective if you travel at least 2-3 times per year, and may be more convenient than purchasing a single-trip plan each time you travel.

The Bottom Line

A medical emergency can happen at any time. For peace of mind and financial protection abroad, it may be worth investing in a travel medical insurance policy.

Travel medical insurance covers unforeseen illnesses and injuries that may occur during your trip. Some plans also extend coverage to pre-existing medical conditions. If you’re nervous about having to cancel your trip due to medical reasons, we recommend a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes Trip Cancellation coverage.

Get a quote today to begin your search for travel medical insurance.

Introduction to TravelSafe Travel Insurance

• Coverage Options
• Purchasing and Managing a Policy
• Customer Service and Support

Compare TravelSafe Travel Insurance

• Why You Should Trust Us

TravelSafe Travel Insurance Review 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.

TravelSafe Insurance is a travel insurance company owned by the Chester Perfetto Agency, which provides a wide array of travel insurance options such as health, life, and auto insurance. TravelSafe can cover longer trips than many of its competitors, but charges high rates. It's also known for its golf-specific coverage. 

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to 120 days' coverage available for travelers ages 79 and under (30 days for 80+)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $2,500 per person for missed connections over three hours or more
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage of up to $150 per person per day kicks in after six hours or more
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy can be purchased by U.S. citizens living abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage ceiling of $100,000 may be low for some travelers' needs.
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims reviews from customers say performance is not always the best
• A well-rounded insurance plan for travelers who are concerned about missing connections for cruise-related travel
• Classic and Basic travel insurance plans
• GolfSafe travel insurance plans provide coverage for you and your equipment
• Travel medical insurance through partner Trawick International

Among the companies included in our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance , TravelSafe offers thick insulation against the unpredictability of travel. The trips that TravelSafe can insure are on the higher end of the industry, covering trips lasting up to 150 days and costing up to $100,000. TravelSafe's Classic plan also offers coverage for people who are up to 100 years old. 

One standout feature of TravelSafe is that all of its plans offer primary coverage, so you can file immediately with TravelSafe instead of going through your health insurance provider first, even with TravelSafe's Basic plan. Many travel insurance companies only provide primary coverage with their higher-tiered plans. 

That said, TravelSafe's Basic plan costs more than many travel insurance companies' most expensive plans. This brings up the issue of cost. While its plans are technically within the bounds of the average cost of travel insurance, TravelSafe certainly stretches those limits, and it's certainly more expensive than many of the best travel insurance companies.

Ultimately, TravelSafe is best for travelers taking an expensive trip who can afford expensive insurance. 

Coverage Options from TravelSafe

TravelSafe has two main policies for those seeking travel insurance: travel insurance for stateside and international travelers and travel insurance for those who are planning golf trips. For each policy type, travelers can choose between classic and basic coverage. And golfers can choose between GolfSafe Secure and GolfSafe Secure Plus.

Here's how the three TravelSafe travel insurance plans stack up in terms of what's included and coverage limits:

TravelSafe also offers specific golf insurance plans, which is something incredibly unique among travel insurance companies. If you're an avid golfer, purchasing golfing insurance will cover things like lost holes, something regular travel insurance won't. TravelSafe's golf insurance plan benefits are as follows:

Additional coverage options from TravelSafe

TravelSafe offers several optional coverages for its travelers:

Rental car damage and theft coverage:  Available for both Basic and Classic plans, this add-on covers up to $35,000 per covered vehicle.

Business and sports equipment rental:  Also available for both TravelSafe plans, your rental equipment is covered for up to $1,000.

CFAR coverage: Only available for Classic+, you'll receive 75% of your nonrefundable trip costs. You must purchase your policy within 21 days of your initial trip deposit. 

TravelSafe Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for TravelSafe plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate TravelSafe coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following travel insurance quotes:

• Basic: $112
• Classic: $147
• Classic (Plus): $274

Premiums for TravelSafe plans are between 3.7% and 9.1% of the trip's cost, within and above the average cost of travel insurance.

TravelSafe provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• Basic: $153
• Classic: $202
• Classic (Plus): $377

Once again, premiums for TravelSafe plans are between 3.8% and 6.3% of the trip's cost, within the expected range of travel insurance costs.

A Texas family consisting of two 40-year-old parents with a 10-year-old and 4-year-old on a two-week trip to Australia for $20,000:

• Basic: $512
• Classic: $676
• Classic (Plus): $1,616

TravelSafe plans cost between 2.6% and 8.1% of the trip's cost, below and within the average cost of travel insurance. 

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New Jersey for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following quotes:

• Basic: $472
• Classic: $582
• Classic (Plus): $952

Premiums for TravelSafe plans are between 7.8% and 15.9%, which is well the average cost for travel insurance. While older travelers should expect higher premiums, these prices are on the higher end of what you should be paying. 

Purchasing and Managing a TravelSafe Policy

Purchasing a TravelSafe policy is fairly simple. You'll first need to obtain a quote through TravelSafe's website. Be prepared to provide the following details:

• State of residence
• Destination(s)
• Departure/return dates
• Date of initial deposit
• Total trip cost
• Number of travelers
• Birthday of traveler(s)

Once you obtain a quote and pick your plan, you'll enter some additional information about yourself, such as your address and contact information. 

How to File a Claim with TravelSafe

If you experience a loss while insured by TravelSafe, you need to act quickly. You have 20 days after the loss to notify TravelSafe, at which point an agent will send you forms for filing proof of loss. If TravelSafe don't send a form withi 15 days, you can send your own written statement about what happened along with proof. This must be completed within 90 days of the loss. 

You have several options if you need to file a claim for TravelSafe.

If you need emergency help, you can call their toll-free numbers below.

• Toll-free (US-only): 1-877-539-6729
• Direct: 1-727-475-2808

If you're international, call the following toll-free number: 1-866-509-7713.

TravelSafe Customer Service and Support

Almost all reviews for TravelSafe are concentrated on its SquareMouth page, where it has an average rating of 4.3 stars out five across over 1,500 reviews. Though an overall positive score, it's worth mentioning that most of the positive reviews come from people who didn't have to file a claim. Some of these reviews mentioned having to alter their insurance plan, which was an overall positive experience. 

However, many of the reviews that mention the claims process are negative. Customers mentioned long wait times, uncommunicative claims representatives, and little guidance during the claims process. Additionally, while many travel insurance companies regularly engage with reviews, both positive and negative, TravelSafe rarely replies to customer reviews.

Learn more about how TravelSafe travel insurance compares against top insurers. 

TravelSafe Travel Insurance vs Faye Travel Insurance

Faye Travel Insurance is a completely digital travel insurance company. Unlike TravelSafe, Faye Travel Insurance completely covers all cruise travel. Faye doesn't cover golf trips as TravelSafe does. They have similar amounts of coverage, but Faye Travel Insurance is about $20 cheaper for its comparable international plans.

Faye Travel Insurance covers your trip, your health, and your belongings just like TravelSafe does. But with Faye Travel Insurance, you can add different things that meet your needs, like car rental, extreme sports, and pet care.

Read our Faye travel insurance review here.

TravelSafe Travel Insurance vs World Nomads Travel Insurance

TravelSafe is an excellent option if you're traveling and participating in regular activities, like trying different foods and basic activities, like taking a train to places. But if you want to do extreme sports, it might not be the right coverage for you. Instead, consider getting a travel insurance plan like World Nomads Travel Insurance . World Nomads covers over 100 different extreme sports, and you can specifically add on different sports that you want to try. It's a better coverage insurance plan for someone who's a little bit more adventurous.

That said, if you're only planning on doing a specific activity, like golfing, TravelSafe has a plan for you. They cover golfing trips specifically with more coverage than World Nomads.

Read our World Nomads travel insurance review here.

TravelSafe vs Credit Card Travel Insurance

Some credit cards, especially travel rewards cards, come with travel benefits such as primary rental car insurance for your vehicle if you decide to rent one. However, travel insurance is generally more comprehensive than credit card coverage. For example, TravelSafe offers benefits like death and dismemberment coverage; credit cards don't typically cover this benefit.

However, you can use both your credit card benefits and your travel insurance to get the fullest coverage possible.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance here.

TravelSafe Travel Insurance FAQ

Yes, TravelSafe is known for providing reliable coverage for international travel, including medical emergencies and trip interruptions.

TravelSafe typically allows the purchase of travel insurance up until the day before departure, making it suitable for last-minute travel plans.

TravelSafe offers policies that include coverage for trip cancellations due to COVID-19, but it's important to review the specific terms and conditions of each plan.

Claims with TravelSafe are generally handled efficiently, with a straightforward process for filing and tracking claims, and timely reimbursements according to customer feedback.

Yes, TravelSafe offers the option to add adventure sports coverage to their policies, catering to travelers who engage in higher-risk activities.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed TravelSafe

For this review, we made sure to include the most updated information and pulled real-time quotes from TravelSafe's website. We compared two different companies that had similar coverage to TravelSafe to ensure the best review possible. We only included reputable plans. And we looked at factors like what's covered, policy limits, and coverage options.

Read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

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.

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Best travel insurance plans for 2024: a unique and comprehensive list for travelers from international citizens insurance.

Including the Best Plans for Seniors, Global Nomads, Visitors to the USA, Pets, Adventure Sports Addicts and More

BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 2, 2024 / International Citizens Insurance, a leading international insurance broker, has announced the best travel insurance plans for 2024 summer travel. As the cost of airfare and hotels continues to rise along with the increase in flight delays and cruise cancellations, this list could not have come at a better time for travelers looking to protect their travel plans and their finances.

"This summer's travel season promises a high level of demand, increasing costs, and a strong potential for travel disruptions due to political unrest, weather, and other factors," said Joe Cronin, President of International Citizens Insurance. "Our clients want travel insurance they can trust to help them if they suffer a cancellation, a medical emergency, lost luggage, a natural disaster, or have to change plans due to unforeseen events. With this list, they will be able to find the best overall travel insurers as well as the right plans for their individual needs."

International Citizens Insurance judged each company and plan on six key criteria: the user-friendliness of their site, the ease of policy purchase, the number of countries plans are offered in, how extensive the benefits are, the ease of making a claim and the quality of the company's customer service. The most trusted insurers include WorldTrips , who made history as one of the first insurers to offer plans for purchase over the internet; GeoBlue Travel Insurance , which supports seniors with coverage for people up to 84 years old; and Trawick International, which offers coverage for over 500 adventure sports activities.

To help customers find the best insurance for their specific needs, International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best insurance for several use cases, including Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, travel medical plans, and insurance with coverage for pets. International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best plans for clients with special needs, including seniors, missionaries and volunteers, U.S. citizens abroad, and digital nomads.

In today's unpredictable world, travel insurance has become the most essential accessory for any international traveler. Travelers want trip cancellation insurance to protect their trip and travel medical insurance plans to protect their health. But with so many companies out there, which ones can you trust?

Learn more about the best travel insurance companies at https://www.internationalinsurance.com/travel-insurance/best-companies.php .

About International Citizens Insurance

International Citizens Insurance is the insurance division of International Citizens Group. We provide educational content, reviews, and unique comparison engines that enable travelers and expatriates to research, quote, compare, and purchase global life, travel, and international health insurance from various carriers.

Contact Information

Joe Cronin President [email protected] 617-500-6738

Andrew Blomberg Vice President, Global Group Benefits [email protected] (339) 221-5190

SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance

View the original press release on newswire.com.

Cruise travel insurance: What it covers and why you need it

What does cruise travel insurance cover? And does it pay to buy cruise travel insurance?

The answer is not always clear-cut, as we'll discuss in this guide. But consider this: It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising. Even the best-laid plans for a cruise vacation can sometimes be thrown off course by an unexpected event.

You might need to cancel a cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness, such as COVID-19 or the flu. Or, maybe you fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure. Or your ship is late arriving in port at the end of a voyage, and you miss your flight home.

In all of these situations, you might benefit from having cruise travel insurance — keyword "might."

Cruise insurance policies vary widely, and not every policy covers every type of mishap. That's why it always pays to read the fine print in a travel insurance policy before you purchase it to know what you're getting in advance.

It's also why you should read this introduction to everything you need to know about cruise insurance. It has many details, but the next time something unexpected happens on your cruise vacation, you'll be glad to be educated and covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

What does travel insurance cover when you cruise?

The typical cruise insurance policy covers a wide range of circumstances that can go wrong in conjunction with a vacation at sea — both before and during the sailing.

For starters, policies often will reimburse you for the cost of canceling a cruise due to a last-minute crisis. They will also often cover costs related to an interruption of a cruise (maybe your ship breaks down, requiring you to fly home mid-voyage ). These two elements are known as trip-cancellation and trip-interruption insurance, and they are bundled into a typical travel insurance policy.

Some policies will also cover out-of-pocket costs related to a flight delay or cancellation that results in you missing your cruise departure (for instance, the cost of catching up to the ship at its next port). Expenses related to baggage delays and loss are often covered as well.

But perhaps most importantly, many travel insurance policies will cover medical expenses you incur while on a cruise. Some will even cover the cost of evacuating from a foreign destination if you are in the midst of a medical crisis.

Travel insurance giant Allianz Global Assistance reports that 53% of all cruise-related "billing reasons" for claims are because of illness for the insured person, while 14% are for an injury. Another 8% are for the illness of a family member, 4% for the death of a family member and 4% for the illness of a traveling companion, among other reasons.

Those percentages include illness and accidents that happen to cruisers just before a trip, making travel impossible. But, in many cases, such claims result from illness and injuries that occur during voyages.

"People often take risks during vacation that they might not take back home, whether riding a jet ski, zipping around on a motorized scooter in a city they don't know well or hiking unfamiliar terrain," James Page, senior vice president and chief administration officer of AIG Travel, told TPG .

Some policies also cover the financial default of a travel provider. In such cases, if your cruise line goes out of business before you sail, you could get all — or at least some — of your money back.

Cruise travel insurance policies don't cover everything. For instance, standard travel insurers generally will not reimburse you for the cost of a cruise you cancel due to worries about an outbreak of an illness. That's true even if a U.S. government agency such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issues a recommendation that you don't cruise due to an illness outbreak, as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic .

If you want the ultimate flexibility to cancel for such a reason or any other, you'll want to look into a more expensive cancel for any reason travel insurance upgrade.

Related: Avoiding outbreaks isn't covered by most travel insurance policies

Where to find a cruise travel insurance policy

You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from your cruise line when booking your trip or through your travel agent (if you're using one, which often is a good idea when booking a cruise). You also can go directly to a third-party travel insurance provider or a travel-insurance aggregator site, such as InsureMyTrip or TravelInsurance . Your credit card might even give you some travel protections.

Here's what you need to know about each type of cruise travel insurance.

Third-party insurance companies

Third-party insurance companies that specialize in writing travel insurance include AIG Travel, Allianz Travel Insurance, Travelex Insurance and American Express Travel Insurance.

One reason to use a travel agent or a travel aggregator: They can help you find a policy that offers added coverage specific to cruising.

Related: The Points Guy's guide to the best travel insurance companies

"Many plans now offer benefits that will specifically appeal to cruise travelers, such as missed connection, missed port-of-call and cruise disablement coverage," Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com, said.

Missed connection coverage reimburses cruisers for a set dollar amount if they need to rebook travel to catch up with their cruise at the next port. Missed port-of-call coverage pays a benefit if the cruise ship misses a scheduled port of call due to weather, a natural disaster or a mechanical breakdown.

Cruise disablement coverage pays a benefit if the traveler is confined on a ship for more than five hours without power, food, water or restrooms.

As noted, policies vary widely. It's a good idea to compare plans and make sure the one you buy has the elements that are most important to you. One size doesn't fit all.

Credit cards with travel benefits

Some premium credit cards offer valuable travel protections comparable to what you might get from a standard travel insurance plan. For example, the travel insurance provided when you pay for travel with select cards can reimburse you for expenses if your baggage is damaged, you're stranded overnight due to a flight delay or cancellation, or you have to return home to handle a family medical emergency.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card, for example, offers trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, emergency medical coverage and even medical evacuation coverage , among other benefits. And yes, cruise lines are considered common carriers just like airlines.

If you're planning to rely on a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express * (among others) for travel insurance, just be sure to recheck your card's benefits and limits carefully against regular travel insurance. You must pay for at least part — and sometimes all — of the trip with that credit card to take advantage of its protections.

*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Find out if your credit card protection includes travel accident insurance or covers preexisting medical conditions, and figure out when it will pay you back. Other questions to ask: What are the coverage limits? Will you have to pay for a foreign hospital bill upfront and then seek reimbursement later?

Cruise lines

Cruise lines often ask consumers booking a cruise to buy the line's own protection at the time of purchase. If specifics about the coverage are lacking, always ask the line for details in advance, review coverage perks and limits; then, compare those to one or two independent travel insurance policies or your credit card's insurance benefits.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise line travel insurance policies sometimes have quirks. Many cruise companies will only offer a travel voucher or credit for future use in the event of a covered cancellation, not an outright refund.

Also, financial default may not be a covered event in a cruise line-sold policy, but it's typically covered with plans from third-party travel insurance companies.

Cruise line policies also can be more restrictive.

"Cruise line insurance seems to have become better and has more widespread coverage than in the past, but it typically won't cover air or pre- and post-travel [arrangements] unless those elements are purchased through [the line]," said Debra Kerper, a Cruise Planners travel adviser from Carrollton, Texas, who books travel and sells private insurance. "This is when private insurance coverage becomes so very important."

How much does cruise insurance cost?

Expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 8% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for a travel insurance policy. That's a wide range, we know, but it reflects the wide range of products out there.

You'll also find some basic plans that cost even less than 4% of your trip expenses, while some super-premium plans that cover just about any conceivable issue can cost as much as 12% of your trip expenses.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

All reputable insurance companies will offer a "free-look period" during which you can receive a 100% refund on your premium. This allows you to review the policy you've selected and return it for any reason within the period allotted — usually for a small administration fee of less than $10.

Under normal circumstances, you don't need to purchase a so-called "cancel for any reason" add-on to your cruise travel insurance policy unless you really need the flexibility. The upgrades are significantly more expensive.

You can receive a quote and purchase a policy online in minutes with any credit card. Although you may think travel insurance should code as "travel" when paid on a credit card and thus be eligible for bonus points on certain cards, that isn't always the case. Your points earnings will depend on the individual underwriter's merchant code. When in doubt, expect the purchase to fall under the insurance category for earnings.

Should I buy travel insurance for a cruise?

Whether you buy travel insurance is a personal decision that will depend on many factors. Would you be willing to absorb the loss of canceling a cruise on short notice due to an illness or accident? Could you afford an evacuation flight from a far-off port if you suddenly became seriously ill? Only you can answer those sorts of questions.

Here are some things to consider as you make that decision.

You might not be covered by regular medical insurance while cruising

If you're a U.S. citizen traveling internationally (which will be the case for most cruises), you may find that most private medical insurance plans in the U.S. won't cover you.

Additionally, Original Medicare only covers people traveling outside U.S. borders in limited circumstances.

While certain Medicare Supplement Plans do have some foreign emergency medical benefits, not all do. Be sure to talk to your Medical Supplemental Plan provider to see if you're covered, what's covered, what the limits are and how the bill is paid.

Also note that, in some countries (particularly those in Central and South America), travelers may not be discharged from a hospital until their bill is paid in full.

Related: Trip wrecked: 7 ways to prepare for any kind of travel disaster

Plus, if you have a medical incident overseas, you could find yourself stuck in a shared hospital room without air conditioning or a private bathroom. The level of care may not be what you expect.

"For people traveling internationally, it's crucial to know beforehand where to go for any treatment … and how they're going to pay for that treatment," Page said.

Getting evacuated for a medical condition is expensive

Most airlines won't accept seriously ill passengers, those carrying bulky medical equipment or those requiring a full medical team.

Even a low-cost weekend getaway on a cruise to the Bahamas out of Miami can turn costly if you suffer a serious accident or illness requiring medical treatment or an emergency medical evacuation.

Related: Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

Being flown back to the U.S. from a far-flung overseas location in a private, medically equipped aircraft, with a professional medical team on board, can run between $70,000 and $180,000, according to Mike Hallman, president and CEO of Medjet, a medical transport membership company.

"Domestic transports, which we cover as well, can cost upwards of $30,000," Hallman said.

Without proof of medical evacuation coverage, foreign providers will also want that money upfront. Hallman said that regular travel insurance will typically get you to an acceptable overseas hospital and even to a higher-level care facility if "medically necessary." Alternatively, medical evacuation coverage means you can fly home to your own hospital, doctors and family — without claim forms, cost caps on transports or surprise bills.

The tandem approach — buying both travel insurance and a separate medevac transport membership — is a good option, Hallman said.

"We always recommend travel insurance, as it covers trip interruption, which is important, as well as medical coverage for the hospital and treatment costs," he said. "We pick up where they leave off."

You can't predict the weather

Cruising is a great way to explore multiple destinations in one trip. But it's good to remember that unexpected delays, interruptions or cancellations due to weather can happen during cruises, particularly during hurricane seasons in places such as the Caribbean and Asia (where hurricanes are called typhoons).

During a typical hurricane season (June 1 to Nov. 30), Allianz pays about 6,000 claims from customers whose travel plans in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and southeastern U.S. are affected by the storms, according to a spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance USA.

If you're hoping to insure against a storm-related disaster, it's good to buy travel insurance as early as possible. Once a storm or hurricane is named, it's too late to buy travel insurance to cover it.

Of course, cruise lines will move ships away from a weather threat. When the port lineup is adjusted or the cruise shortened, the company will offer the guest an onboard credit, onboard gift or future cruise credit rather than any refund. It depends on the circumstances of that specific voyage. You won't be able to make a claim on your cruise travel insurance policy just for a minor itinerary change .

Related: Everything you need to know about cruising during hurricane season

Costs can mount quickly when things go wrong

Even if the cruise line does provide a full or partial refund or cruise credit for an itinerary change or some other interruption, travelers could have to swallow the cost of other travel elements not purchased through the line. That could include nonrefundable flights , prepaid resort or hotel nights, nonrefundable tour fees and more.

Travel insurance can cover those, plus help with flight delays or cancellations, baggage loss or theft.

If a winter storm causes you to miss your flight to where the ship is boarding , "travel insurance could help you get to the next port to join the cruise, so you don't miss your entire trip," Page said.

In fact, 13% of "billing reasons" for claims to Allianz are for common carrier delays (such as a flight delay), while weather and natural disaster-related claims account for about 3%.

The government probably won't bail you out

While cruise ships have medical facilities, they're usually not equipped to treat serious illnesses. If you experience a serious medical problem on a vessel, you may have to get off the ship in a foreign port to seek treatment at a hospital. In such a case, if you don't have medical evacuation insurance, you may then find yourself stranded in that port awaiting a medical evacuation.

Don't expect Uncle Sam to step in and help foot the bill.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs clearly states the importance of buying travel insurance.

"The U.S. government does not provide medical insurance for U.S. citizens overseas," the bureau says on the website. "We do not pay medical bills. You should purchase insurance before you travel."

You may need more assistance than you think

If you're injured or become severely ill during a cruise, especially in a foreign country, it may be difficult to access help without the assistance of trained professionals that comes with many insurance plans.

Many travel insurance companies provide around-the-clock assistance with locating overseas clinics and pharmacies, getting to a doctor or hospital, refilling lost or depleted prescriptions, assisting with up-front payments to hospitals, and arranging flight changes so you can get home.

Travel insurance companies also can arrange for an air ambulance, a nurse escort, oxygen and a lie-flat seat on a flight home if your medical condition warrants it.

You want to be careful if you have preexisting conditions

When you cruise, it's important to be fully covered, which means having comprehensive medical coverage that includes any preexisting conditions. Otherwise, if you head into a doctor's office overseas, have any tests completed, or visit an urgent care center or emergency room, you might not be covered.

Here, timing is extremely important. Cruisers seeking coverage of preexisting conditions, as well as cancel for any reason insurance, generally must book within seven to 21 days of the first payment they make for a trip. The timing varies by insurer.

Bottom line

Cruise insurance isn't for every traveler — or even for every sailing. It's not inexpensive. However, it can bring a lot of peace of mind if you're about to head out to sea. Do your homework, compare plans and always assess the risks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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.

Find the Right Travel Insurance Plan for You

Whether you're traveling for leisure or business, you'll appreciate the benefits and coverage Allianz Travel Insurance plans can provide. With 24/7 support from our travel professionals around the world, we helped over 70 million people last year to protect themselves from the unpredictable.

OneTrip Prime

AllTrips Executive

OneTrip Rental Car Protector

OneTrip Basic

OneTrip Premier

OneTrip Emergency Medical

OneTrip Cancellation Plus

AllTrips Basic

AllTrips Prime

AllTrips Premier

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

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

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Travel Insurance Singapore Guide (2024): Must-Knows for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Travelling is a favourite Singaporean pastime. A national sport, if you will. But while we all love travel and wanderlust, most of us don’t give much thought to buying travel insurance .

Buying travel insurance in Singapore is something a lot of us take for granted. Few of us bother to buy travel insurance ahead of time, and even fewer compare policies to find the best travel insurance in Singapore .

Here is everything you should look out for before buying travel insurance in Singapore.

Key features to look out for in travel insurance

• What does travel insurance cover?
• How to choose travel insurance
• Travel insurance prices
• Best travel insurance in Singapore
• Common mistakes when buying travel insurance
• Travelling with pre-existing health conditions 
• When should I buy travel insurance?
• Single trip or annual travel insurance?
• Compare travel insurance before buying

1. What does travel insurance cover you for?

A good travel insurance policy covers you for a whole series of situations, from the small inconveniences to the most terrible.

Trust me, you never want to be in a situation that you’re not covered for.

It could be a minor inconvenience, like having your luggage delayed and being forced to spend  at least one night in the same clothes you wore on the entire flight. Or it could be a serious medical emergency, like getting stung badly by jellyfish in the middle of a remote island adventure and needing immediate medical attention.

These days, almost all travel insurance in Singapore automatically includes COVID-19 coverage. That means, you’ll be able to claim from your travel insurance if you get Covid-19 while travelling .

You should also have coverage for everything from lost and delayed luggage, flight delays and cancellations, all the way to medical treatment, medical evacuation and even repatriation in case of serious illness and death. All these different situations have different claim limits, of course.

Travel insurance also covers things like reimbursing deposits if your travel agent goes bust, if your credit card is used fraudulently overseas, or if you  damage your rental car . Some policies even pay you if you are kidnapped while overseas!  And the best part is that travel insurance is relatively cheap and convenient to buy.

Back to top

2. How to choose travel insurance

With so many different benefits in a travel insurance plan, it can be tough to decide if a particular travel insurance plan is worth your money. You should look out for how much you are reimbursed for common travel hiccups.

• Find a travel insurance that covers flight delays and cancellations:  Flight delays happen more often than you realise. They can be extremely inconvenient, especially if it ends up causing you to miss your connecting flight. Ensure that your policy covers you for a decent period of time. For example, if your flight is delayed, some policies pay you $100 for every 6 consecutive hours of delay. There’s usually a cap of around $200-$500, but if you want more coverage DirectAsia Voyager 150 pays out up to $1,000 for travel delay.

Total Premium

DirectAsia Voyager 150

[ Win a Rolex, Samsonite Luggage & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy 40% off your policy premium • Get  S$88 Revolut Cash Award* with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$20 via PayNow and up to S$20 iShopChangi e-voucher with eligible premiums spent. T&Cs apply.   BONUS: For a limited time only, there are over   S$11,000 worth of prizes  to be given away in our Grand Draw . Stand a chance to score: • 1x   Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • 1x   Samsonite Robez 68/25 EXP  (worth S$550) weekly   Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply   PLUS, get S$100 Revolut Cash Award when you are the 8th and 88th Successful Applicant each week to sign up for a new Revolut account in our Giveaway.  T&Cs  apply.

Key Features

Additional coverage for Travel Insurance - Sports equipment, Maid and COVID-19. Extreme Sports add-on only available for Annual Plans.

Kids go free – up to four kids travel for free with a Family policy only (2 adults)

Matching kids limits – children enjoy the same coverage limits as adults

Emergency Dental – Accidental Dental treatment can be costly, so it is covered under the main medical expenses coverage which is higher than a separate dental benefit

Optional COVID-19 coverage on trip cancellation, medical expense, and emergency evacuation. Only for Single Trip.

• Lost   or delayed baggage:  Make sure your policy covers you well for such situations. Many policies pay $100 for every 6 consecutive hours your baggage is delayed, including Bubblegum Travel Insurance  which pays up to $3,000 for lost or damaged baggage. Don’t forget to also pay attention to the maximum amount you’re covered for.

Bubblegum Travel Insurance

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]   • Enjoy 10% off your policy premium • Get S$88 Revolut Cash Award* and an Eskimo Global 1GB eSIM with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$25  via PayNow and up to S$20 iShopChangi e-voucher with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.   PLUS, get S$100 Revolut Cash Award when you are the 8th and 88th Successful Applicant each week to sign up for a new Revolut account in our Giveaway.  T&Cs  apply.

Bubblegum offers just 1 affordable plan to suit all your travel needs to maximise your savings

Overseas medical expenses up to $150,000 SGD (Covid-19 sub-limit of $65,000 included)

24-Hour global Emergency Assistance services including Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Covid-19 trip related cancellation/curtailment up to $600 SGD included

Adventurous activities like scuba diving and hot air ballooning are covered with no limit on depth or height.

• Medical coverage overseas: Since you can never predict what might happen on your trip, it literally pays to be safe than sorry. A good travel insurance policy covers you for at least $200,000 for overseas medical coverage and unlimited coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. One value-for-money insurance policy that fits the bill is  Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Bronze .

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Bronze

[ Win a Rolex, Samsonite Luggage & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]    • Enjoy an exclusive   58% off your policy premium for a limited time only ! Valid till 13 May 2024. • Get S$88 Revolut Cash Award* and an Eskimo Global 1GB eSIM with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$20 iShopChangi e-voucher with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.    BONUS: For a limited time only, there are over   S$11,000 worth of prizes  to be given away in our Grand Draw . Stand a chance to score: • 1x   Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • 1x   Samsonite Robez 68/25 EXP  (worth S$550) weekly    Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply    PLUS, get S$100 Revolut Cash Award when you are the 8th and 88th Successful Applicant each week to sign up for a new Revolut account in our Giveaway.  T&Cs  apply.

For Cruise to nowhere insurance: Find out more here

Personalise your travel insurance-Flexible coverage allows you to create a travel insurance plan with different types of coverage and addon that can adapt to your needs

Overseas Covid-19 related medical expenses of up to $15,000 SGD included (Excluding China).

No sublimit or restriction on outpatient expenses and number of visits

24 hours Global Emergency Assistance Services help you when you need it most, connecting you with medical treatment and transportation

Seamless and Cashless claims via PayNow

Covers travel expenses for sending back an unattended child during the hospitalisation of the insured person

Please note that travelling to Russia and Ukraine is not covered in Starr’s insurance with immediate effect.

• Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage:  Ideally, your policy should offer coverage for a range of COVID-19 expenses you might encounter during your travels (and even before you fly!). Look out for the travel insurance policies’ coverage for trip cancellation and postponement and medical expenses due to Covid-19. Overseas quarantine cash allowance is an added bonus. For example,  AIG Travel Guard® Direct – Enhanced covers $100 per day for 14 days if you’re quarantined overseas due to COVID-19.

AIG Travel Guard® Direct - Enhanced

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]   • Get up to 52% worth of cashback and up to S$20 iShopChangi e-voucher with eligible premiums spent. • Additionally, receive  S$88 Revolut Cash Award* and an Eskimo Global 1GB eSIM with every policy purchased. T&Cs apply.   PLUS, get S$100 Revolut Cash Award when you are the 8th and 88th Successful Applicant each week to sign up for a new Revolut account in our Giveaway.  T&Cs  apply.

Voted TripZilla's Best Travel Insurance (Single Trip).

Up to S$250,000 in overseas COVID-19 related medical coverage if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 overseas.

Overseas quarantine allowance of up to S$100 per day per person for up to 14 days if you test positive for COVID-19 overseas and are unexpectedly placed into mandatory quarantine.

Up to S$1,500 if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 and have to postpone your trip.

Up to S$7,500 in curtailment costs if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while travelling and need to return to Singapore earlier than planned.

This policy is protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). Coverage for your policy is automatic and no further action is required from you. For more information on the types of benefits that are covered under the scheme as well as the limits of coverage, where applicable, please contact AIG Asia Pacific Insurance Pte. Ltd. or visit the AIG, GIA or SDIC websites (www.AIG.sg or www.gia.org.sg or www.sdic.org.sg).

Purchase your travel insurance with confidence and enjoy unlimited flexibility with AIG's Travel Guard® Direct

3. Travel insurance prices in Singapore

Travel insurance in Singapore is very price-sensitive, and sometimes insurers can compete to shave off even $1 from their premiums to make their policies more enticing (yay for us!).

One way to get a cheaper plan is to see which insurers offer regional travel insurance . If you are only travelling to Thailand, for example, it is usually cheaper to get a policy that covers only SEA or ASEAN countries, rather than a worldwide coverage policy .

However, price is not the only factor—especially since cheap insurance policies often mean significantly less coverage. Buying travel insurance is not like buying a “warehouse sale” LV bag in Chatuchak Market. You don’t just shop around, look for the stall owner with the weakest bargaining skills, and haggle the price down as low as can get.

Look at other aspects of the policy when buying travel insurance . There are many other factors to consider—for example, how much coverage you’re eligible for, and how quickly your claims can be processed. Make sure that you don’t have to wait till the next blue moon before you can see the results of your claims.

4. Which travel insurance to buy in Singapore?

Like anything else you purchase, the best travel insurance is what gives you the most value for money. Say you are only travelling to Thailand for a weekend shopping trip, for example. You’re probably travelling light and don’t need more than $3,000 coverage for loss of baggage, even if you can pay just $3 more for significantly more coverage. Save that $3 and treat yourself to all the Thai milk tea you can drink!

As we said earlier, you shouldn’t be so stingy  and only buy the cheapest. The cheapest may have lots of terms and conditions when it comes to claims . For example, an insurer might not cover delayed luggage if it is only delayed returning to Singapore. If this is the only inconvenience you face in your entire trip, you might be understandably upset that it’s not claimable.

The important thing is to read the terms and conditions of your preferred policy carefully and make sure you’re not caught unawares. This is especially important when it comes to medical pre-existing conditions.

5. Common mistakes when buying travel insurance

How many of us actually know how to go about buying a good travel insurance that is suitable for our needs? Here are five common mistakes to avoid when buying travel insurance:

• Buying the most “convenient” travel insurance : Do you just buy the first travel insurance you see on Google? It is important to read the details of the coverage provided to see if they are adequate for your needs or to cover the risks of the destination you’re travelling to, eg. medical coverage and loss of personal belongings.
• Buying travel insurance at the last minute : Do you often buy your travel insurance when waiting to board your flight or while making your way to the airport? Yes, better late than never. However, you should be aware that some of the benefits of the travel insurance are applicable (eg. natural disasters , airline strike, tour agency bankruptcy) if you buy travel insurance ahead of your trip.
• Not buying travel insurance for the entire length of your trip : Should you purchase travel insurance only for the days you are actually overseas? No. You should include flights to and from your holiday destination. In the event of baggage delays, loss or damage, or overbooking of flights, you’d then be able to make a claim. For long haul trips, do remember to cater for the +1 or +2 days that it takes for your flight to reach Singapore.
• Not reading your travel insurance policy : Not all travel insurances are created equal. In fact, the policy document and terms of coverage makes for rather interesting reading. Do go through the policy document for what’s included and excluded, claim limits, and what you gotta do in order to make a claim.
• Assuming travel insurance is “one size fits all” : If your holiday includes adventurous elements like skydiving or scuba diving, check to ensure that the travel insurance you are considering covers these activities. MSIG TravelEasy Elite covers a whole range of activities, including sky diving, hot air ballon rides, and bungee jumping. Alternatively, check to ensure that adventurous activities are not excluded from the claims.

MSIG TravelEasy Elite

[ Win a Rolex, Samsonite Luggage & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy up to 45% off your policy premium • Get S$88 Revolut Cash Award* and an Eskimo Global 1GB eSIM with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$45 via PayNow OR 1 x Apple AirTag (worth S$45.40) and  up to S$20 iShopChangi e-voucher with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.   BONUS: For a limited time only, there are over   S$11,000 worth of prizes  to be given away in our Grand Draw . Stand a chance to score: • 1x   Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • 1x   Samsonite Robez 68/25 EXP  (worth S$550) weekly   Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply   PLUS, get S$100 Revolut Cash Award when you are the 8th and 88th Successful Applicant each week to sign up for a new Revolut account in our Giveaway.  T&Cs  apply.

COVID-19 coverage of up to $300,000 medical cover and up to $5,000 travel inconvenience benefit for your trip protection.

Stay protected and enjoy a wide range of adventurous activities from sky diving, scuba diving, white-water rafting to winter sports like dog sledding, tobogganing, sledging and ice-skating.

Get covered across all TravelEasy Plan types with a high limit of S$1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation & repatriation

MSIG provides cover for insolvency of licensed travel agencies registered with the Singapore Tourism Board (includes NATAS registered travel agencies)

6. Will pre-existing conditions affect my travel insurance?

One of the biggest travel insurance stories in 2017 was when a Singaporean man had a heart attack in Tokyo and fell into a coma. The medical costs alone cost $120,000 and bringing him back to Singapore via medical evacuation would cost another $120,000.

Because the man had been diagnosed with heart failure in 2012, his insurer considered it a pre-existing condition and therefore no claim was possible. Currently, one insurer that covers pre-existing conditions is MSIG TravelEasy Pre-Ex travel insurance.

MSIG TravelEasy Pre-Ex Standard

7. When should I buy travel insurance?

There are many, many things that can go wrong when you’re travelling. Half of these things could happen even before you leave the country!

Waiting to buy your travel insurance policy on the day you travel (or worse, after you’ve already crossed into international waters) puts you at risk for travel inconveniences big and small like delays or postponement.

A good travel insurance policy also covers you for your entire trip being cancelled unexpectedly.

You should buy a travel insurance online as soon as you’ve planned your trip. Getting your travel policy as early as possible does not make you “ kiasu ”. It makes you smart.

This is because you’ll want to maximise the coverage you can get from the policy. For example, if you haven’t bought a policy yet and the travel agency you’re booking with closes down a week before your travel, you won’t be able to claim anything. The same goes for flight delays and flight cancellations.

There is no penalty for buying travel insurance earlier, except maybe missing out on promotions that often happen around the travel season. But what’s the point of saving a few dollars and risk losing hundreds due to cancelled flights and hotel deposits?

8. Buy single trip or annual travel insurance?

In the past, it made more sense to buy single trip travel insurance plans when you leave Singapore. That’s because in the past, most people only travel once or twice a year. With the greater nomad and remote working culture … and travels over long weekend, though? It might actually be more convenient to buy an annual plan for your travel insurance.

A good gauge to determine whether to choose between a single trip plan and an annual plan is to ask yourself if you’re going to be travelling more than 3 times a year . And we’re not just talking about weekend getaways either!

Whether you’re just going across the Causeway or travelling further overseas for work, an annual plan definitely makes more sense to your wallet.

Depending on how often you travel and how far you travel, it might be worthwhile to consider buying annual travel insurance .

If you are a frequent traveller, you not only save money by buying an annual policy, but you’ll never have to spend time buying insurance every time you fly overseas. Of course, just like single trip travel insurance, you should still compare the various policies online before you commit.

Annual travel insurance has a flat premium and covers you for an entire year of travel. It usually costs about $200-$300 a year, so only buy it it you are a frequent traveller. That is, it only makes sense if you are going to travel overseas more than 7-8 times a year, at least.

9. Why should I compare travel insurance before buying it?

Comparing allows you to choose the best travel insurance policy for your needs. You’ll be able to see at a glance what coverage policies have for various situations, such as medical costs, and compensation levels for lost, delayed and damaged baggage.

But of course, comparing travel insurance in Singapore allows you to see that the cheapest travel insurance policy may not be the best. This is because the cheaper policies usually have significantly less coverage, naturally. While that may be a good thing for some travellers – there’s no need to get a $1,000 coverage for lost luggage if you’re only bringing the bare minimum to a staycation in Bangkok, for example.

ALSO READ: Best Travel Insurance in Singapore: AIG vs AXA vs FWD vs NTUC

Are you headed overseas? Compare the cheapest travel insurance here .

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For many, the Taylor Swift Eras Tour isn't just a concert; it's an unforgettable experience of a lifetime, filled with nostalgia and excitement. By exploring ticket prices in different cities and considering the overall cost of travel, fans are finding that catching a performance in a distant location is more feasible and economical than expected.

For years, Taylor Swift has captivated music fans of all ages around the world with her iconic hits and ever-evolving style. For many, the Taylor Swift Eras Tour isn't just a concert; it's an unforgettable experience of a lifetime, filled with nostalgia and excitement. However, for many "Swifties," attending a show may be a bit of a financial stretch, especially if the tour misses their hometown. Surprisingly, though, traveling to a different city to attend could be more affordable than scoring tickets to a show closer to home.

Taylor Swift started her Eras Tour in March of 2023 with more than 150 shows scheduled in five different continents. According to online research company QuestionPro , the tour could generate about $5 billion for the U.S. economy by the end of 2024. On average, each concertgoer is spending $1,300 per show on hotels, outfits, and merchandise. Researchers at Skift estimate the tour has already generated $1.2 billion for the U.S. travel industry alone―accounting for flights, hotels, short-term rentals, transportation, dining, and other additional spending.

The beauty of the Eras Tour is the magic that Taylor Swift brings to the stage around the globe, allowing fans from different cities and countries to partake in triumphs of her musical career. While it may seem most sensible for Swifties to attend a show in a nearby city, it isn't always possible to score tickets for a show close to home. And, even if tickets are available in a city nearby, prices can fluctuate greatly based on location, venue size, and, of course, demand.

The difference in price is strikingly noticeable when looking at current ticket prices on StubHub. In the U.S., tickets are particularly expensive. Tickets start at $2,000 each for shows in Miami and Indianapolis, and fans will have to shell out $1,500 for the "cheapest" ticket in New Orleans. International shows can have more affordable ticket prices, starting at $300 each in Paris, $400 in Stockholm, and $350 in Madrid. While tickets to international shows may be less expensive, fans won't be missing out on Taylor's performance. Many of the international venues are much smaller than the venues in the U.S., so even "cheap" tickets can provide a closer seat and better view than a higher-priced ticket in the States.

By exploring ticket prices in different cities and considering the overall cost of travel, many fans are finding that catching a performance in a distant location is more feasible and economical than expected. For years, music fans have been "gig-tripping," combining a concert with a vacation, and the Eras Tour has been fueling this trend. Distance is no barrier as many Swifties are turning their one-night concert experience into a weeklong vacation.

While many fans worry that it's unrealistic to see Taylor perform live, by considering traveling abroad, they could make their Wildest Dream a reality. 

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