apa travel insurance

A Practical Guide to Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance could be the difference between a huge medical bill or a modest copay. use these tips to find the best policy for your trip..

• Copy Link copied

It’s far better to buy travel insurance and never use it than to not be covered in an emergency.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

For many, travel insurance seems like an unnecessary additional expense. But if you get stuck in a costly situation—a medical emergency, a canceled trip due to a pandemic , a stolen camera—it suddenly becomes a totally worthwhile investment that saves, not costs, you money.

This was the case for writer Chris Ciolli. After years of traveling without a safety net, she invested in travel insurance on a recent trip during which she was rushed to the hospital at 3 a.m. for a slew of just-in-case tests. She ended up with an underwhelming diagnosis of gastritis, but also a slow trickle of medical bills—a few hundred dollars here, a thousand there—that totaled nearly $6,000. Fortunately, her monthlong $185 World Nomads policy covered everything after an initial $80 copay.

But even if you understand the benefits and you’re committed to buying travel insurance, choosing the right policy for your needs—and even knowing what those needs are—can be tricky. To help you choose the best travel insurance for your trip, we’ve consulted a number of travel agents, insurance industry professionals, and lifelong travelers for advice. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know, from travel insurance reviews and comparisons to common questions answered, to pick the best policy for your next trip.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a plan, similar to health or auto insurance, that protects you from expenses incurred during unforeseen mishaps while traveling, such as lost luggage, trip cancellations, or medical emergencies.

Although your current homeowner’s, renter’s, auto, or health insurance may cover you for certain things while traveling, it usually doesn’t cover everything—especially on international trips. A good travel insurance plan will cover the gaps.

Where do you get travel insurance?

Some very basic forms of travel insurance are included if you booked your trip with a credit card such as World MasterCard, Capital One Venture Rewards, and Chase Ink and Sapphire cards. With these plans, you may be protected regarding some delay, luggage, and travel accident expenses, but the coverage is usually pretty basic.

You can also purchase it as an add-on while booking flights, cruises, or hotels. These plans are also limited and will only cover you in the event of an unavoidable cancellation due to events such as a natural disaster or a death in your family. “While it may seem less expensive, it may not cover all of the components of your trip,” says Andrew David Harris, vice president and COO of Harris Travel Service . While both of these are better than nothing, the most comprehensive and best travel insurance policies are sold by providers such as World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, Seven Corners, or TravelEx. You can purchase these plans through your travel agent, but it’s often less expensive to book directly with the travel insurance provider or through a comparison website, like SquareMouth .

What does travel insurance cover?

Every traveler and trip is different, which is reflected by the variety of travel insurance plans on the market. No matter what plan or provider you choose, below are some common things travel insurance covers. Experts agree that before you buy, you should absolutely look for specific exclusions in the fine print on potential policies. If you’re unsure about something, reach out. A good insurance company will be responsive and willing to clarify your questions.

Trip cancellation and interruption

Most travel insurance policies will include some form of trip cancellation and interruption coverage to reimburse you for nonrefundable expenses, like a prepaid hotel or plane ticket. Unless you add cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance to your plan, there will be a limited set of acceptable reasons to claim this. Illness, death of an immediate family member, and weather are commonly accepted reasons.

Trip delays and missed connections

Also common is reimbursement for additional expenses incurred if a trip is delayed and meets criteria set out by the provider. With World Nomads, your flight must be delayed by at least six hours to qualify.

Baggage and personal effects

Most plans will cover the cost of lost or damaged luggage and personal belongings as well as the cost of purchasing additional items if your luggage is delayed.

Emergency medical and dental care

This covers the cost of medical care when you get sick or have an accident in another country and usually includes medical evacuation. However, travel insurance isn’t a substitute for regular health insurance so nonemergency medical expenses (physicals, anything cosmetic, eye exams) aren’t covered. Childbirth isn’t covered either, even for pregnant travelers who go into labor prematurely.

Shannon O’Donnell, 2013 National Geographic Traveler of the Year and blogger at A Little Adrift , mentions another coverage gap travelers miss: “You’re only covered for what you’re licensed to do back home—if you don’t have a permit for a motorbike and you drive one in Southeast Asia, you might not be covered in an accident.”

Emergency medical evacuation

This covers the cost of an emergency transfer (in an ambulance or helicopter, for example) from an area with inadequate medical care to the nearest medical center with the services you need. It’s costlier but essential in isolated and politically unstable parts of the world.

Accidental death and dismemberment and repatriation

Experts say that “truckloads of coverage for hospital costs and medical repatriation home” are the most important things to look for. “The rest is just window dressing.” A lot of basic plans won’t include this in their coverage, but you can easily add this on with an upgrade to a more premium tier.

Concierge and 24/7 service

Daniel Durazo, director of Marketing and Communications for Allianz Global Assistance , says that “a good policy includes a 24/7 contact line for both medical and travel emergencies.”

Common travel insurance add-ons to consider

A basic plan is usually enough for most travelers, but it may not cover everything you need if you’re older, have pre-existing medical conditions, participate in sports while traveling, book an expensive trip, or travel with expensive gear (such as a high-end camera). If you fall into any of these categories, consider an add-on or upgrade.

Upgrade lost luggage, trip delay, and cancellation amounts

“Standard travel insurance levels cover more modest belongings and lodging,” advises Annette Stellhorn, president and Group Luxury Travel designer at Accent on Travel . If you’re traveling with expensive gear or spending a lot on your trip, consider upgrading to a tier that covers your costs adequately.

Additional coverage for adventure and high-risk travel

Stellhorn also notes that adventure and high-risk travel “require higher benefit amounts for medical evacuation, which can run more than $250,000.” And Judy Perl at Judy Perl Worldwide Travel says that “most insurance companies will not insure high-risk travel at all, with the exception of big companies like First Allied and Travelex .” Even fewer risky activities and sports may only be covered to a limit: that is, climbing to certain heights and diving to certain depths.

Most sports are covered up to a certain level of intensity; any higher and you may have to purchase a different tier of insurance. World Nomads, for example, will cover a slew of adventure travel activities and sports, but at an additional cost on top of its basic insurance.

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance

It’s important to read the fine print of any insurance plan because, even if it includes trip cancellation coverage, this often only kicks in under certain circumstances. As many travelers found out recently, trips canceled due to the recent coronavirus pandemic were not covered unless they had a CFAR add-on .

Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, co-owner and copresident at Valerie Wilson Travel , explains that these plans “only cover 75 percent of trip expenses [and only] if travelers cancel their trips at least 48 hours in advance.”

Does travel insurance cover pandemics?

No. “Once actual events have unfolded, such as the coronavirus outbreak, they are considered known or foreseeable events and are no longer covered by most travel insurance policies,” says Afar’s Michelle Baran . The exception is if you chose to upgrade your plan to include a CFAR add-on.

What are the best travel insurance policies?

The best travel insurance policy will depend on you and your trip. You’ll want to make sure you have a plan that covers the cost of your entire trip and the activities you want to do and won’t leave you in the dark if you have preexisting conditions. The following are some of the best travel insurance partners to consider:

Best for: Older travelers and those with preexisting conditions.

While Allianz provides great travel insurance for any traveler, it’s especially appropriate for those with pre-existing conditions, since those are covered in every one of its plans. However, its basic coverage only covers up to $500 in lost or damaged baggage, so consider an upgrade if you’re traveling with more expensive equipment.

Get a quote: allianztravelinsurance.com

Best for: Medical coverage only

GeoBlue’s Voyager basic medical coverage is not a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers a slew of scenarios; rather it provides travelers with basic medical travel insurance. The deductible is a high $500, but at $19 to $35 per trip, it’s an inexpensive way to protect yourself in case something catastrophic happens. If you’re adequately covered for travel mishaps like lost luggage or stolen goods by other insurance (like your credit card or homeowner’s insurance), this might be the plan for you.

Get a quote: geobluetravelinsurance.com

Best for: Traveling with kids

With TravelEx, travelers can choose between a basic or select travel insurance package with options to customize it according to their needs. Both plans cover standard things like trip cancellation and emergency medical services and are an all-around comprehensive option. However, its Travel Select plan also includes free coverage for any children under 17 traveling with you. For families, TravelEx Select is a great money-saving option.

Get a quote: travelexinsurance.com

How much does travel insurance cost?

Complete travel insurance packages can cost as little as $8 per day but vary depending on the length of the trip, destination(s), and the tier of travel insurance you choose. Some, but not all, travel insurance may also cost more for travelers with pre-existing conditions or older adults.

As a comparison, here are some examples of travel insurance costs for a 45-year-old traveler on a $5,000, one-week trip to Mexico:

• $138 for an explorer plan with World Nomads
• $179 for a basic plan with Allianz
• $248 for an essential plan with AIG
• $261 for a basic plan with Travelex

While some of these plans may seem expensive, keep in mind that if they provide you the coverage you need, they can be a huge money saver. Insurer World Nomads says that its average claim amount for 2017 was $1,634, and its most expensive claim—a medical evacuation of a child from Sitka, Alaska, to Seattle—was nearly $200,000. Suddenly, that $8 per day makes travel insurance worth it . But, as Michael Holtz, founder and CEO of the travel agency SmartFlyer , says, “People don’t think they need it until they need it.”

How do I buy travel insurance?

You should always buy travel insurance from an official, reputable provider or website, such as purchasing directly through the insurance provider, a travel agent, or a comparison website; these “offer a way to search, compare, and purchase from a wide array of plans,” says Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com .

Comparison sites to buy travel insurance include:

• Travelinsurance.com
• SquareMouth
• Insuremytrip

Sandberg strongly recommends consumers speak with a licensed agent when they are unsure about benefits. The website Elliott Report is another good resource and features a list of reputable travel insurance companies compiled by consumer advocate Christopher Elliott.

When to buy travel insurance

Generally, you should book your travel insurance as soon as you can after booking your flights and hotels. If you’re traveling to a destination affected by hurricanes , book sooner rather than later, because you can’t buy insurance to cover delays or cancellations related to a storm that already has a name.

People with preexisting conditions need to consider other factors. Most insurers will cover only expenses related to prior illnesses in very specific circumstances; travelers with preexisting conditions must book coverage within a specific time frame, usually between 14 and 21 days, following their initial trip reservation, and they must be medically able to travel on the date they purchase the insurance.

Your travel insurance policy period should be for the duration of your trip from door to door (no gaps or shortcuts, please) and cover you for every place you plan to visit, whether it’s in-state, out-of-state, or international. Some destinations are at higher risk than others, so insurers don’t offer the same coverage for the same price everywhere.

What does your existing insurance cover while traveling?

While your existing health, auto, renter’s, or homeowner’s insurance may cover a few things while you’re traveling, it likely doesn’t cover everything.

• Health insurance: Many U.S. health-care policies, including Medicare, don’t cover travelers on international trips. Some plans will cover you abroad, so check with your provider. If your health insurance only covers you domestically, both the Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. State Department recommend purchasing medical travel insurance.
• Travel insurance: Credit cards can provide limited coverage of some delay, luggage, and travel accident expenses, as well as part of your rental car insurance.
• Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance: Home contents or rental insurance may cover some lost, stolen, or damaged valuables or even offer a reasonably priced floater policy (an add-on to your regular policy that covers easily moveable property) if you travel with expensive equipment.
• Auto insurance: Within the United States, your primary auto insurance will almost always cover rental vehicles. There are a few exceptions for domestic rentals, like if your current auto insurance has low coverage limits. International car rentals are a different story. In Mexico, for example, rental car insurance is mandatory , even if you have insurance at home. Always be sure to check local rules before you reserve a rental car.

Tips for filing claims and getting reimbursed

Unlike most domestic health insurance policies, travel insurance doesn’t typically have a deductible. Some inexpensive policies will require you to pay a small, nonrefundable, initial policy excess amount before further costs up to the benefit limit are covered. Many policies work on a reimbursement plan: You pay upfront, save your receipts, and file a claim, then after processing, your insurance company pays you back for covered expenses.

Most policies require you pay non-emergency expenses out of pocket and submit your claim for reimbursement afterward. In a non-life-threatening emergency, call your insurer for instruction if you’re able; it will make the claims process easier, and the insurer may be able to direct you to a hospital or medical center where your care can be billed directly to it.

Hannah Logan, of the blog Eat Sleep Breathe Travel , says this step is especially important because the small print on many policies “reads that calling the contact number [may be] a requirement for coverage.”

No matter what, document everything. Whether it’s lost baggage, a medical expense, or damage to your rental car, gather and keep anything that can help your claims case: your original rental car agreement, receipts, photos, medical paperwork, a copy of your boarding pass.

Buying travel insurance is a little like packing a suitcase: It can seem overwhelming at first, but eventually it becomes routine and a necessary part of every trip. Once it does, you can travel worry-free, secure in the knowledge that you’ve saved yourself from a possible $6,000 mistake.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated on June 19, 2020, and on May 15, 2024, to include current information.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

APA Members Get More.

In today's world, it's more important than ever to make sure you and your family have great insurance coverage. We offer exclusive coverage on pet, long term care, and more!

Discounts / Services

As a member of APA, your exclusive savings go beyond travel and insurance. We've partnered with some of today's best companies to provide you great discounts on goods and services!

With so many great discounts on travel, it's time you finally take that trip. With your exclusive APA membership, you can save on car rentals, hotels, trips and more!

© 2024 Gallagher Affinity | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use Terms and restrictions apply. Visit individual websites for details.

Enable JavaScript

Please enable JavaScript to fully experience this site. How to enable JavaScript

Allianz Trip Insurance

Protect your travel experience

Read about Allianz Trip Insurance’s COVID-19 insurance coverage limitations and accommodations.

U.S. coverage alert Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Top reasons to buy trip insurance

• Financial reimbursement if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip due to a covered illness, injury, jury duty, and more
• Emergency medical benefits in and outside the U.S. – where many personal health insurance policies (like Medicare) won’t cover you
• 24-hour emergency assistance to help you solve medical and other travel-related problems on the go

Types of trip insurance plans

Allianz Trip Insurance comes in a variety of plans to fit your specific needs. Single-trip plans can protect one trip, annual plans can protect all your trips for an entire year, and rental car protection plans can keep your budget safe from accidental collision and damage to a rental vehicle.

All insurance is recommended / offered / sold by 3rd party, Allianz Global Assistance, not American Airlines. Underwriter: Jefferson Insurance Company or BCS Insurance Company. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans. AGA Service Company is a licensed producer in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia.

Get a quote Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Trip insurance benefits

Reimburses your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered illness, injury, and more.

Reimburses the unused, non-refundable portion of your trip and increased transportation costs it takes for you to return home early or to continue your trip due to a covered illness, injury, and more.

Reimburses expenses related to covered emergency medical or dental care incurred on your trip.

Provides benefits for medically necessary transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility following a covered injury or illness.

Reimburses extra meals and accommodations you may need if your flight is delayed for 6 or more hours for a covered reason.

Reimburses you if your luggage is lost, damaged or stolen during your trip—keeping your travel plans on track.

Reimburses the purchase of essential items if your luggage is delayed for more than 24 hours.

Turn your trip into a VIP experience. Our travel experts can give you destination information, make restaurant reservations, find tickets to shows, and more.

Help is just a phone call away. Our team of multilingual problem solvers is available to help you with medical and other travel-related emergencies.

Provides primary coverage with no deductible.

Review period

If you’re not completely satisfied, you have 15 days (or more, depending on your state of residence) to request a refund, provided you haven’t started your trip or initiated a claim. Plans are non-refundable after this period.

Additional assistance

Coverage by country of residence.

• Frequently asked questions

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]

Email [email protected]

PLEASE BE ADVISED: This plan contains insurance benefits (which may include disability and/or health insurance benefits) that only apply during the covered trip. This optional coverage may duplicate coverage already provided by your personal auto, home, renter’s, health, life, personal liability, or other insurance policy or source of coverage but may be subject to different restrictions. You should review the terms of this policy with your existing coverage. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer/health plan or insurance agent/broker. This insurance is not required to purchase any other products/services. Unless licensed, travel retailers and their employees may provide general information about the insurance, including a description of coverage and price, but are not qualified/authorized to answer technical questions about terms, benefits, exclusions, and conditions of the insurance or evaluate the adequacy of existing coverage. Plans are intended for U.S. residents only and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Rental Car Protector is not available to KS and TX residents, except when purchased as a separate policy and is not available in all countries or for all cars. This coverage does not provide liability insurance or comply with any financial responsibility law, or any other law mandating motor vehicle coverage and does not cover you for any injury to another party. Additionally:

California Residents: We are doing business in California as Allianz Global Assistance Insurance Agency, License # 0B01400. California offers a toll-free consumer hotline at 1-800-927-4357.

New York Residents: The licensed producer represents the insurer for purposes of the sale. Compensation paid to the producer may depend on the policy selected, or the producer’s expenses, volume of business, or profitability. The purchaser may request and obtain information about the producer’s compensation, except as otherwise provided by law.

Maryland Residents: The purchase of travel insurance would make the travel insurance coverage primary to any other duplicate or similar coverage. The Commissioner may be contacted to file a complaint at: Maryland Insurance Administration, ATTN: Consumer Complaint Investigation Property/Casualty, 200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2700, Baltimore, MD 21202.

Texas Residents: Before deciding whether to purchase this insurance plan, you may wish to determine whether your own automobile insurance or credit card agreement provides you coverage for rental vehicle damage or loss and determine the amount of deductible under your own insurance coverage. The purchase of this insurance plan is not mandatory. This coverage is not all inclusive, which means it does not cover such things as personal injury, personal liability, or personal property. It does not cover you for damages to other vehicles or property. It does not cover you for any injury to any other party.

Plan charge includes the cost of insurance benefits and assistance services. See your Plan Details for more information, or call Allianz Global Assistance at 800-284-8300.

AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance (AGA) compensates their suppliers or agencies for allowing AGA to market or offer products to customers of the supplier or agency.

*Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply, including for pre-existing conditions. Plans may not be available to residents of all states. Insurance benefits are underwritten by either BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company, depending on insured’s state of residence. AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans.

What is travel insurance?

What is travel protection.

• Travel insurance vs. Travel protection

How to purchase

Travel protection conclusion and recommendations, travel insurance vs. travel protection faqs, travel insurance vs travel protection: understanding the differences.

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.

• Travel protection covers trip cancellations, while travel insurance covers cancellations and medical costs.
• Travel insurance is usually more expensive than travel protection, as it provides more coverage.
• Travel insurance typically costs 4-8% of your total trip costs, more with CFAR protection.

In high school geometry class, you likely learned all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. The same can be said for the perceived connection between travel insurance and travel protection. The two similar-sounding terms describe entirely different products if you're researching how to protect your trip. While all travel protection plans are considered travel insurance, but not all travel insurance provides travel protection.

Suffice it to say the confusion surrounding this topic, even among savvy travelers, is all-too-common.

"Travel protection and travel insurance are sometimes used interchangeably, but these two products are quite different and work best when they complement one another," says Joe Cronin, president of International Citizens Insurance, who cuts to the root of the problem. Understanding the difference between the two products is essential to ensure you have the right coverage for your next trip

Coverage and Benefits

Travel insurance is a regulated product purchased by the consumer from a third party and underwritten by a reputable insurance company. Depending on the policy purchased, travel insurance can help cover losses associated with travel delays, lost luggage, medical expenses, or trip cancellations. In addition, many travel insurance plans have added specialty coverage from sports equipment to pets and roadside service. 

You can buy travel insurance exclusively for trip cancellations, flights, or other individual service. Or you can expand your coverage by purchasing a cancel for any reason (CFAR) policy .

Limitations and exclusions

According to the Generali Travel Insurance, most Insurance companies enforce the following limitations and exclusions: 

• Reasonably foreseeable events (i.e., known storms, epidemics, acts of war)
• Travel restrictions by government authorities
• Pre-existing conditions (unless a waiver applies)
• High-risk activities

Coverage Scope

Travel protection (also called trip protection) is an unregulated product purchased directly from the provider (from travel agencies and credit card issuers to airlines and cruise ship companies). This option offers limited trip cancellation coverage in the form of fees waived and credit issued in the case of changes to the itinerary and cancellation, respectively. 

Buyers cannot make travel protection more comprehensive, which means limited, less customizable options. This could be sufficient if you're insuring a short-term, domestic trip. But more extensive trips require more extensive coverage, which travel insurance may be better suited for.

Typical Inclusions

Your coverage options vary by insurance provider, but most will offer trip cancellation and trip interruption. These coverages insurers nonrefundable, prepaid expenses, and additional expenses incurred due to a cancellation or interruption.

Comparing travel insurance and travel protection

Differences in coverage.

Cronin is critical of travel protection, saying it is not "a suitable policy in place of insurance, rather a good add-on if the price is right." He underscores while trip protection policies can be pretty generous, services remain unregulated and rife with exclusions.

Nicholas Imtias, an avid world traveler, learned this the hard way after opting for budget-friendly travel protection for a canceled overseas trip. Unfortunately, he could not utilize the waiver he received for a flight from Sri Lanka to the Maldives when the unregulated protection proved nothing but an empty promise.

Additionally, most non-insurance providers offer medical-related coverage. This could be crucial coverage if you're traveling abroad, especially if your health insurance isn't effective at your destination. 

Cost Considerations

As such, when compared side-by-side, the cost of travel protection will invariably be less than the cost of travel insurance, making it an attractive option for many who still need to do their homework.

Trip protection may pop up when booking your flight, whether through a deal site like Expedia or the main airline website. In most cases, premiums are low, totaling as little as $25-$30 for a short flight. But, as mentioned before, it only covers the flight.

The cost of travel insurance, on the other hand, equates to a percentage of the trip's total cost. Typically, premiums equate to an average of 4-8% of trip costs. Of course, a good travel insurance plan can't protect you from the inconvenience and sheer expense of an emergency while traveling abroad (which, depending upon the specifics, could be thousands of dollars or more) or ahead of time. But it can help to make you whole after the fact.

This could mean giving you a claim settlement to cover toiletries and other necessities in the immediate aftermath of a lost bag. It could also mean reimbursing you for a portion of nonrefundable trip costs if you have to cancel your trip. For travelers researching "how to protect your trip," travel insurance covers what we forget about until we need it.

The exact costs for travel insurance vary based on the trip and the coverage you want. For example, if you want cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, you should expect a hefty increase in your premiums. But for people canceling trips for excluded reasons with a regular travel insurance plan, CFAR coverage would be well worth it. The general rule is simple: the more protection you want, the more you'll have to pay.

Choosing the right option for your trip

Assessing your travel needs.

Many people have a simple question: how much should I spend on travel insurance? The answer is it depends. So, before making any decisions and signing on the dotted line, consider your travel needs and budget.

"Travel insurance is designed to protect you and your trip from unexpected costs and losses …[and] depending on the plan you choose, the coverage can be very comprehensive," Pamela Bardo, vice president of Customer Service & Delivery at FlightHub Group, says.

"Rather than providing broad coverage, travel protection typically protects the customer's purchase in case they need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness," Bardo explains. She emphasizes that travel protection does not typically cover indirect costs, such as the high costs of an emergency evacuation.

Travelers should look at the specifics of their travel plans and buy the appropriate plan. For example, suppose you're traveling from California to New York. In that case, you should get protection for your flight, and you might want to consider cancel for any reason coverage, depending on many factors. However, getting medical travel insurance wouldn't make sense when your regular health insurance travels with you.

On the other hand, if you're traveling to Thailand, you'll want to protect the most expensive part of your trip (flight). You'll also want to get a robust medical plan in case something goes wrong in a country where you do not have other health insurance.

Factors to consider

Before choosing between travel insurance and protection, consider the following factors: 

• Destination: If you're traveling internationally or to a high-risk area, consider purchasing a policy. Travel protection may be enough if you're taking a domestic trip to see family members. 
• Trip cost: A costlier and longer trip may require higher coverage limits, which travel insurance tends to provide. Travel protection often has limits over what and how much it'll cover. 
• Activities: High-risk activities (i.e., sports, outdoor activities, etc.) increase the risk of injury. Travel protections likely won't cover high-risk events, but travel insurance gives you the option to include a sports and adventures add-on. 

Purchasing tips and best practices

You can buy travel insurance through an insurance provider, comparison site, broker, or travel agency. You can purchase protection through the service provider. For example, hotels, airlines, and large events may protect your purchase if you cancel. But you may find that not all services or events provide this benefit.  

Opting into protection or buying insurance shortly after you make your first trip deposit ensures that all future cancellations are covered. If you choose not to purchase your policy immediately, you must do so within a certain amount of time to qualify for pre-existing condition coverage  — usually 14 days. 

Reading and understanding policy terms

Travel insurance and protection features can overlap, but both come with several exclusions. It's important to know what coverages you require. It's also important to read through your insurance policy or travel protection's terms and conditions to determine which one is right for you. 

Making an Informed Decision

Travel insurance and travel protection are valuable tools designed to help keep travelers safe and protected on their journeys. Both provide peace of mind while en route to destinations around the globe. But it's essential to consider factors unique to your itineraries, such as the length and cost of your trip, potential personal risks or concerns, and any existing insurance coverage. All these things allow travelers to make the right decision for their travel plans.

Whether travel protection is enough for international travel depends on your situation. Travel insurance is generally recommended for more extensive, international trips due to its comprehensive coverage. It includes medical emergencies which travel protection plans don't typically cover.

Yes, especially if the travel protection is free or more cost-effective than specific coverage from travel insurance policies. Before purchasing travel insurance, be sure you don't already have a travel protection benefit.

No, travel protection does not cover medical emergencies. Trip cancellation and interruption are more common benefits.

You should prioritize travel protection if you're taking a domestic trip, as your primary health insurance provider should adequately cover you when you're in the country, reducing your need for travel medical coverage.

Travel insurance policies cover pre-existing conditions if purchased within a certain timeframe. while travel protection plans typically don't cover medical emergencies and pre-existing conditions.

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

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

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

COVID Information |  Click here to learn more about our COVID Travel Insurance

Why should I purchase Travel Insurance? 

Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway  or a month-long adventure, unexpected events can happen. An AXA protection plan can help ease your mind and help safeguard your trip, offer reimbursement for covered medical costs, and provide travelers with 24/7 access to assistance services, among other benefits.

Need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen event? 

Get coverage for your trip against illnesses, injuries, and natural disasters. Travel insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

Was your luggage lost or stolen? 

Our travel plans can offer reimbursement for the value of your belongings, up to the policy limit. This includes coverage for lost or stolen passports, visas, or other important travel documents, as well as any necessary expenses related to replacing these items.

Stranded due to unexpected travel delays?

Whether it’s rebooking your flight, finding alternative transportation, or providing a place to stay, our 24/7 travel assistance team is here to help!

Is domestic and international medical coverage provided?

Our travel plans can provide up to $250,000 in medical coverage domestically and internationally for emergencies and accidents while traveling.

SILVER PLAN

Best for Domestic Travel

• 100% of Insured Trip Cost for Trip Cancellation
• $25,000 Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical
• $750 Baggage & Personal Effects

Best for Cruise

• $100,000 Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical
• $1,500 Baggage & Personal Effects

PLATINUM PLAN

Optional Cancel For Any Reason Coverage

• $250,000 Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical
• $3,000 Baggage & Personal Effects

AXA Customer Reviews

4.8 base on 891 reviews in

Compare Our Silver, Gold, Platinum Plans

Axa travel insurance benefits.

Medical Travel Benefit

AXA offers coverage for certain emergency medical expenses that result from an accidental injury or illness while traveling as well as emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. Learn more

Trip Cancellation

We can reimburse you up to the maximum benefit of your selected travel plan, that is due to an unforeseen event including illness and inclement weather and other covered reasons. Learn more

Emergency Evacuation

AXA Offers coverage for medically necessary evacuations and repatriation as directed by a physician to the nearest adequate medical facility or your home. Learn more

Baggage Loss

AXA offers reimbursement coverage in the event your baggage or personal effects are lost damaged or stolen during your trip. Learn more

Cancel For Any Reason

AXA offers coverage up to 75% of your prepaid nonrefundable trip costs if your trip is cancelled for any reason. Learn more

Trip Interruption

AXA offers coverage for your non-refundable trip costs in the event you cannot continue on your trip due to a covered reason. Learn more

MY TRIP COMPANION

Not just a travel app but a comprehensive travel assistant that enhances your travel experience.

Frequently asked questions about travel insurance, what is travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover on a cruise, why choose axa, how much does travel insurance cost, what is a pre-existing medical condition, does travel insurance have covid benefits.

Travel Assistance Wherever, Whenever

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

Make the most out of your travels. Get AXA Travel Insurance and travel worry free!

Over 20 Years of Experience | Located in 30+ Countries | 24/7 Travel Assistance

Common concerns about travel insurance.

• It is a clever idea to purchase travel insurance If you are willing to protect your trip from variety of common travel-related incidents, including trip cancellations, flight delays or cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, and medical emergencies.

• Travel insurance provides coverage against medical expenses, reimbursement for lost or stolen luggage, compensation for expenses incurred due to travel delays and more while you are travelling.

• Travel insurance is to provide financial protection to travelers in case of unexpected events. Without adequate insurance coverage, travelers may face significant financial losses and hardships if they encounter any unforeseen circumstances while traveling in the Schengen Territory.

• A good option for travelers who are concerned about unforeseeable events or who want the freedom to cancel their trip for any reason. When you purchase CFAR coverage, you can cancel the trip without losing your entire prepaid, nonrefundable vacation expenses. Exclusive to Platinum Package holders.

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

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

AXA Travel Insurance Review: Is it Worth The Cost?

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

Table of Contents

What is AXA?

Axa travel insurance plans, which axa travel insurance plan is best for me, can you buy axa travel insurance online, is axa legit, what isn't covered by axa travel insurance, is axa travel insurance worth it.

• Lowest-cost plan includes some medical coverage.
• Pre-existing conditions waiver add-on available for higher-cost plans.
• No add ons are available for Silver-level policyholders.
• CFAR upgrade is only available for highest-cost plan.

In the era of staff shortages and extreme weather, your trip may not go exactly to plan. When that happens, travel insurance can be a big help. Although an insurance policy can’t prevent a delay or cancellation from happening, it can help relieve the financial burden if something unpredictable does occur on your trip.

But how do you know which insurance provider to go with? Here's a look at AXA travel insurance to help you determine if one of its plans is right for you.

AXA is a French insurance company that does business in over 200 countries. It offers many different types of insurance, including policies for travelers. These include coverage for baggage loss , trip cancellation and interruption, emergency evacuation and emergency medical costs. Cancel for any reason coverage is also offered. 

AXA Assistance USA is part of the AXA Group.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance?

AXA Assistance USA offers travelers three insurance plans: Silver, Gold and Platinum. The plans are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and their affiliates in Columbus, Ohio. Here's the coverage you can expect from each policy.

Silver: This is the least expensive plan that offers 100% trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, $25,000 in emergency accident and sickness medical coverage and $100,000 in emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage.

Gold: The mid-range Gold policy comes with 100% trip cancellation and 150% trip interruption coverage, $100,000 in emergency accident and sickness medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage. 

Platinum: The AXA Platinum travel insurance plan includes 100% trip cancellation and 150% trip interruption coverage, $250,000 in emergency accident and sickness medical coverage and $1,000,000 in emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage.

If you want to add Cancel For Any Reason coverage, you’ll need to select the Platinum plan and purchase a policy within 14 days of paying the initial trip deposit. It’ll cover 75% of the prepaid nonrefundable expenses for your travel. 

If you’d like coverage for pre-existing medical conditions , a waiver is available on the Gold and Platinum plans as long as you buy coverage within 14 days of your first trip payment.

» Learn more: How does travel insurance work?

Let’s compare AXA’s plans, the costs and coverage for a 19-day trip to Indonesia that costs $1,500 for a 36-year-old traveler who lives in Utah.

Coverage and limits for the Silver-level plan include:

Trip delay: $100 per day, with a $500 maximum.

Trip cancellation: 100% of the trip cost.

Trip interruption: 100% of the trip cost.

Baggage delay: $200.

Lost baggage: $750, up to $150 per article.

Missed connection: $500.

Emergency evacuation: $100,000.

Accidental death and dismemberment: $10,000 ($25,000 if on a common carrier).

Emergency accident and medical expense: $25,000.

The plan cost for our sample trip is $55.

For $79, the Gold-level tier offers the following coverage and limits:

Trip delay: $200 per day, with a $1,000 maximum.

Trip interruption: 150% of the trip cost.

Baggage delay: $300.

Lost baggage: $1,500, up to $250 per article.

Missed connection: $1,000.

Emergency evacuation: $500,000.

Accidental death and dismemberment: $25,000 ($50,000 if on a common carrier).

Emergency accident and medical expense: $100,000.

Collision damage waiver: $35,000.

Platinum is AXA’s highest tier level. This plan includes:

Trip delay: $300 per day, with a $1,250 maximum.

Baggage delay: $600.

Lost baggage: $3,000, up to $500 per article.

Missed connection: $1,500.

Emergency evacuation: $1,000,000.

Accidental death and dismemberment: $50,000 ($100,000 if on a common carrier).

Emergency accident and medical expense: $250,000.

Collision damage waiver: $50,000.

Lost golf rounds: $500.

Lost skier days: $25 per day.

Pet boarding fees: $25 per day (up to five days).

This level of coverage costs $95.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for travel insurance benefits

To get an AXA travel insurance quote, go to AXATravelInsurance.com and start by inputting your information in the quote box. Enter your state of residence, destination country, trip dates, date of first trip deposit, total trip cost, the number of travelers and their ages.

Once you’ve filled out the form, click on the “Get a quote now” button.

You’ll be presented with three quotes, one for each plan level. Make sure to click on the “See more benefits” link to get more information on each plan’s coverage limits. The plans with the highest coverage limits will be the most expensive.

If you need a pre-existing conditions waiver, select the Gold or Platinum plan. You’ll also have to purchase the plan within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit to be eligible. 

The Gold and Platinum levels are also the two plans that offer Schengen zone coverage and a collision damage waiver . The Platinum plan is the only one that offers a Cancel For Any Reason add-on, so keep that in mind if you need more protection.

Overall, if you’re looking for emergency medical and emergency evacuation coverage specifically, the limits are good on all the plans, including the least expensive one.

To compare plans from multiple insurance providers at once, we recommend checking out Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site and a NerdWallet partner. The website helps you pick the right plan by displaying multiple quotes from many insurance providers, including AXA, in one spot.

AXA began in the early 19th century as a small insurance company specializing in property and casualty insurance. 

Since then, the company has evolved, changing names and acquiring other insurance brands, until it became AXA in the 1980s. It is now one of the largest insurance companies in the world. In other words, yes, AXA is a legitimate travel insurance provider.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

Every plan has different exclusions, so it's important to look at your coverage summary. Generally, pre-existing conditions without a previously purchased waiver are not covered.

Other limitations include:

Intentionally self-inflicted injuries.

Participation in bodily contact or extreme sports.

Traveling for the purpose of securing medial treatment.

Accidental injury or sickness when traveling against the advice of a physician.

Non-emergency treatment or surgery.

AXA handles more than 14 million cases each year, and every plan includes access to their 24/7 assistance hotline. The company is well established and has three plans for travelers to choose from.

AXA travel insurance covers several benefits including but not limited to 100% trip cancellation and trip interruption, medical emergencies, emergency evacuations, baggage delay or lost baggage, and accidental death and dismemberment. The Platinum plan also lets you add Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

AXA's least expensive plan, Silver, and its mid-range Gold policy do not have the option to add-on Cancel For Any Reason coverage. For travelers who opt to purchase the Platinum insurance plan, you can add Cancel For Any Reason coverage a la carte within 14 days of paying the initial trip deposit.

In the event that you need to make a claim, you can upload supporting documents online. If the claim is accepted, you will receive reimbursement within 30 days.

It's said that travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer. But you don’t want to become poorer if something goes wrong before or during a trip. We don’t know what the universe has in store for us, so buying a travel insurance policy is one way we can protect our investment.

AXA offers budget, mid-range and premium policies that are easy to understand, provide adequate coverage and don’t cost a fortune.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on 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.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Coverage that goes where you go: Travel worry-free with Blue Cross Blue Shield

Planning to hit the road this travel season?   You’ve got a lot to do!   You’ll have to book your travel, lodging and activities, pack and be sure your home is looked after while you’re gone.   That’s a lot to think about, and the list goes on. With so much to do, it’s easy to overlook one item that might prove crucial: ensuring that you will be covered if you need medical care while traveling.

Most Blue Cross Blue Shield members can rest easy since Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage opens doors in all 50 states and is accepted by over 90 percent of doctors and specialists.   And if your extended travel plans take you abroad, you can ensure you have access to quality care through GeoBlue .

BCBS Coverage Travels with You

If you aren’t sure what’s covered, it’s a good idea to call your Blue Cross Blue Shield company to find out what your benefits are if something goes awry while on vacation. When traveling within the United States, most Blue Cross Blue Shield members will be covered under the BlueCard program, which connects all 36 individual Blue Cross Blue Shield companies so that members can enjoy access to the savings the local Blue Cross Blue Shield plan has negotiated with its doctors and hospitals.

For example, if a member of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, whose Plan includes the BlueCard program, falls and breaks his arm while hiking in Yellowstone, he will be charged the rate Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming has negotiated with the local hospital rather than paying the steep fees he would otherwise encounter.   Likewise, a BCBS Wyoming member who falls ill in Dallas would be charged the rate BCBS Texas has negotiated with its local providers.   It’s one of the many benefits of belonging to the nation’s oldest and largest health insurance system.

If your plans include international travel, GeoBlue   has an extensive network of options to meet your needs when living or working abroad for an extended period of time.   Though many Blue Cross Blue Shield plans cover international care in emergency situations, GeoBlu e  plans offer the most complete set of benefits and access to services like emergency medical evacuation, which might not be covered by your regular plan.

Insurance Tips for Travelers

Here are a few steps you can take to take charge of your health while traveling:

Traveling Within the United States

• Call your BCBS company to find out what your benefits cover while traveling.
• Always carry your current BCBS ID Card .
• To find nearby doctors and hospitals, call BlueCard Access at 1-800-810-BLUE (2583) or visit the Blue National Doctor & Hospital Provider Finder .
• Call your Blue Plan for precertification or prior authorization if necessary. Refer to the phone number located on your Blue ID card.

Traveling Abroad

• Verify your international benefits with your Blue Plan before leaving the United States, or purchase a GeoBlue  plan.
• Always carry your Blue ID card.
• If you need to locate a doctor or hospital, or need medical assistance services, hotlines are available 24/7. You can reach the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center at 1-800-810-BLUE (2583) or call collect at 1-804-673-1177. If you’re a GeoBlue member, call collect at 1-610-254-8771, or 1-800-257-4823 from inside the U.S.

To learn more, visit BCBS.com or the GeoBlue website.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of 35 independent, locally operated Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield companies.

Travel Insurance

Take us with you, related products.

What is the Travel Insurance?

Travel anywhere in the world, we provide 24-hour cover for medical expenses and assistance, travel delay or flight cancellation, personal accident, loss of passport, total loss of baggage that has been checked in international airline, loss of money, personal civil liability and hijacking.

PICK A PLAN TO PROTECT YOUR TRIP

We'll take care of upfront payments of eligible medical expenses,

We'll provide you with:

• Comprehensive medical emergency coverage up to kes 5 million
• 24/7 emergency assistance worldwide
• Couple and family coverage available for trips of 180 days or less
• Flight cancellation
• Medical Expenses
• Medical Transportation
• Repatriation and Evacuation
• Burial, Cremation and Repatriation of Mortal Remains.

Buy your travel insurance cover online

Motor Vehicle Insurance

Protects your vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown

Personal Accident

Protects individuals in the event of an injury, disability or death.

Home Insurance

A policy that protects your home and its contents

Follow us on

APA INSURANCE

PHONGSAVANH INSURANCE (APA)

Travel Insurance

Spread your wings and fly with our comprehensive travel insurance.  Planning a short trip or exploring the world we have you covered.

Travel insurance: Protect you and your family against unexpected costs whilst travelling on holiday at home or abroad

ພົງສະຫວັນ ປະກັນໄພ ເອພີເອ ໃຫ້ທ່ານຫຼາຍກ່ວາການຄຸ້ມຄອງ You’re not just another customer We’re not just another insurer

There are many different options of Travel Insurance for individuals or family

Benefits and Cover:

• Medical and other expenses caused by Accident or illness
• Death or Total Permanent Disability by Accident
• Automatic extension of cover under Journey is completed (due to death, injury, delay in public transport)
• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Additional Return Flight
• Baggage Loss
• Flight Delay Cash Benefits (delay over 12 hours)
• Overnight Accommodation
• Trip Cancellation/Curtailment
• Daily Allowance during Hospitalization
• Hotline Service 24 Hours

Phongsavanh Insurance (APA), serving customers always.

ພົງສະຫວັນປະກັນໄພ (ເອພີເອ) ພ້ອມເບີ່ງແຍງທ່ານສະເໝີ...

Please select the brochure link below