best travel insurance for volunteering abroad

Review: International Volunteer Insurance (Picking the Right Plan)

Last Updated on August 10, 2023

Travel insurance is an important topic for travelers in general, and especially volunteers heading abroad for weeks or months. If you’ve found your way to this review, then you likely already understand the reasons why you need travel insurance for your volunteer work —not only do most programs require that you have an insurance policy, but it’s a financially sound decision and you will be glad to have coverage if you encounter any health or safety concerns during your volunteer placement.

The short version of this post is that you should skip iffy resellers like Volunteer Card and World Nomads and go straight through highly regarded and reputable insurers like IMG , which I have personally used for more than a decade of travel and volunteering.

Table of Contents

What types of insurance do international volunteers need?

Travel insurance is a broad category that can cover anything from that weekend wedding across the country, to a long-term trip around the world—and everything in between. With such a broad range in the types of trips, it makes sense that there is a great range in the types of coverage offered by insurance companies.

The entire process is not always straightforward—you need to understand when your insurance for international volunteer work is actually sold by a brand underwritten by a different insurance company (like Volunteer Card and World Nomads), as well as if and when that’s a selling point.

I, GV’s founder Shannon, have been on the road since 2008. With so many years buying travel insurance plans, I have a good bead on what type of policies work for each type of international volunteer trip you might be taking—whether that means volunteering with animals, in conservation, teaching english, or the many other scenarios where you might find yourself overseas and need the projection insurance offers.

Travel insurance for short-term volunteers:

Short-term international volunteers may spend days or weeks at a volunteer placement somewhere outside of their home country. Whether you are planning this as a part of a specific organized volunteer work placement, or if you are going the indie route where you arrange your program directly with the destination organization, you need a policy that covers you for the duration of your trip. Many short-term volunteers plan to generally travel either before or after their placement—or both!

For this type of trip, you’ll likely want a general travel insurance policy that widely covers you for travel-related mishaps and situations, from lost luggage to delays to health and medical evacuation. I have long used IMG Patriot (more on it below). If the time spent at your volunteer placement folds into a broader trip, it makes the best sense to choose a plan targeted at backpackers, or travelers visiting a handful of places in a single trip.

Even if that’s not you, if you’re going straight to the placement and then back home at the end of your trip, the shorter time-frame still means you won’t face many of the issues covered in policies for expats and long-term travelers. In this scenario, you need a policy that covers your trip, but you are maintaining your health insurance policy back home, and you pay travel insurance above and beyond your general health coverage (be it an individual policy if you are from the U.S., or your national coverage if you’re from Canada, the U.K., or the like).

Travel insurance for long-term volunteers:

Long-term travelers and international volunteers face an interesting situation that varies depending on each person’s unique health situation, chosen destination(s), and the length of time. “Long-term” could mean eight months, or it could mean two years. Like short-term volunteers, you might be planning a single placement, or you may plan to volunteer a bit, but then also travel either on your breaks, or for weeks and months in between your volunteer experiences.

This type of trip has unique needs, and you need to consider if you will maintain your health insurance in your home country for the duration of your trip, or if you are relying on your travel insurance to cover your general health as well as emergencies. And if you’re in one spot volunteering for a year, you can also factor into the equation the quality and cost of local healthcare for your general wellness checkups. Consider your destination—how good is the healthcare infrastructure and will you need the more “travel-y” and adventurous coverage provided by a policy intended for backpackers and round the world travelers?

A long trip to a single destination might be better classified as an expat at that point, and there are policies specific to that type of travel. Whereas for some long-term travel you might be better served by a backpacker policy intended to cover lost luggage, health emergencies, and accidents from outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking. Backpacker policies from IMG Patriot are among the best for many travelers on the road for a long while—more on that below.

Travel insurance for expats:

Expatriate is the general term used to apply to anyone living outside their home country. And if you are moving overseas and setting up a house and a life abroad, and intend to volunteer (let’s say for perhaps eight months or longer), then you might be best served by an expat insurance policy. In this type of situation, you are living somewhere and not classifying your trip as a chance to “travel,” per se. You may explore your new home, but you’re not bouncing around to new countries every week and you spend most of your time at your volunteer placement.

These policies differ from backpacking policies and really are not fully considered travel insurance. Instead, the policies offer you primary health coverage in a foreign country. This type of policy allows you to see a local physician for a cough or cold, for your annual gyno visit, and that sort of thing. It’s not intended to cover adventurous activities like snorkeling, scuba, trekking, etc, although you may be covered inadvertently for some activities because you can see local doctors when you’re ill. These policies often also cover catastrophic medical evacuation and repatriation of remains (just like any good travel insurance).

Many expat policies for U.S. residents also include the option to pay for the policy to include primary insurance coverage stateside as well—adding this to your expat policy raises your premium significantly because of the high cost of U.S. healthcare. If you’re living abroad, you might instead purchase a policy without U.S. coverage, and then buy a travel insurance plan for the weeks you return home to visit (something like United Healthcare offers short-term plans I use when I return to the states for a month every year).

I have found three main companies offering this type of coverage: Cigna Global, IMG Global , and GeoBlue Xplorer. A fourth option in some destinations is to purchase local insurance through a national provider—this is more complicated to navigate from abroad, but would be easier once you live there, open a bank account, and have a local address (but is also harder if you don’t fluently speak the local language).

Pros and Cons of Recommended Volunteer Insurance Companies

There are a ton of options out here, but here I will outline pros and cons for just the ones that I have used and personally recommend. I can’t promise that these companies are perfect, but after diligent research, these are the ones that best fit the wide range of circumstances that cropped up over the past decade when I traveled as a backpacker, as a long-term traveler, and when I bought an expat policy for long-term residency outside of the U.S. All three options allow you to buy and manage your policies completely online (until you must mail things in for claims and such). All three also offer medical evacuation and coverage for serious medical emergencies.

IMG Patriot : This one makes a great family plan if you are heading on the road for anything from a few weeks to a few months. The policy covers most everything you would expect, and you can change your deductible levels to easily raise or lower the price to fit your budget (and your level of risk tolerance—that’s something you can’t adjust if you use an out-of-the-box plan by Volunteer Card, which has some plans underwritten by IMG, the International Medical Group).

IMG policies generally cover fewer adventure sports and activities than World Nomads, but you can buy an additional rider if you have planned adventures during or after your volunteer placement (and you really, really should buy the rider if you plan to do anything more than lay on a beach).

IMG Global : After researching expat policies in 2018, I settled on this IMG insurance policy to cover me for my year of living in Barcelona, Spain. This policy better meets the requirements of long-term visas, so if you are applying overseas for a long-term or international volunteer visa, the requirements might mandate that you have an expat policy. IMG offers zero-deductible policies (which my long-term visa required), and covers all the basic and emergency health situations you might face.

It does not cover trip delays and that sort of situation that travel insurance policies usually have well in hand. I use this as my main policy, but then I might bought World Nomads travel insurance when I was well off the path from my expat destination traveling in Kyrgyzstan. Also note that IMG has student plans , and plans for seniors 65+ , and even plans for non-U.S. citizens volunteering or traveling in the U.S. It really is the best option for a broad swath of travelers and volunteers— view and compare all of the policies here .

Review: Is Volunteer Card Travel Insurance Legit?

Here’s the deal: I don’t mind companies like Volunteer Card, which is akin to a volunteer insurance reseller—it’s not actually the insuring company. The way that works is that Volunteer Card sells policies from two other companies that are branded under Volunteer Card.

Pros of going with a volunteer insurance reseller:

When you face an issue on the road, their team works with you to navigate the claims process. That’s a handy feature for anyone who has become overwhelmed by the paperwork involved in travel insurance claims. But, that paperwork is also not so overwhelming that it’s impossible. I have made claims directly through IMG (which underwrites Volunteer Card’s longer volunteer insurance policies), and it was a one-shot deal: I uploaded my untranslated, raw documents from the hospital, and a few months later the money was directly deposited into my bank account. A traveler I know firsthand made a more than $60K claim through IMG and similarly was able to navigate the claims process solo. So, if you really need the hand-holding, it can help.

Cons of going with a volunteer insurance reseller:

When you use a reseller, you are locked into the policy that they have decided is best suited to the average volunteer or traveler—you don’t get to tweak and play with your coverage. When you book directly through IMG , they will offer a grid during the process that lets you hand select coverage limits in various areas. You decrease/increase your maximums and minimums to fit your own risk tolerance profile (perhaps you’d rather not pay for $500K in emergency evacuation because your destination isn’t incredibly remote, but you would like to allocate funds for more coverage than the paltry $50K in medical expenses that Volunteer Card’s plan covers).

Final thoughts on Volunteer Card : Is Volunteer Card a scam? No, it’s a valid option for travelers who like the prices and what they offer. That said, I respect an insurance company that is straightforward and does what is intended. I am also philanthropic on my own account. So, I am not much impressed by Volunteer Card’s integrated program for “donations.”

Best I can figure out, a mere 10 cents from every policy goes toward a meal for a Burmese refugee (they say every policy buys one meal, and that $1 equals 10 meals). What’s more, the money goes through the company’s own faith-based nonprofit, Venture, which is not shy about its overt proselytization goals of turning unresourced, poverty-stricken children in Southeast Asia into “future Christian leaders.”

The ethics of volunteering is murky enough itself. So while the GV database does list some religious organizations doing great work overseas, I (Shannon) find many non-secular organizations deeply conflicting when they offer humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations alongside religious conversion efforts.

GV’s founding goal was to help volunteers navigate all things murky in the voluntourism industry by providing volunteers with enough information to make educated, considered decisions on issues that have a very real effect on the very real humans you aim to help.

So, the conflict is this: By proselytizing to marginalized, vulnerable, and easily exploited populations while providing fundamental human needs like food and shelter, it can make aid seem part of or conditional to religious conversion.

If you’re into Maslow’s hierarchy of needs , I think of it this way: Populations that don’t even have physiological and safety needs met on the bottom of the pyramid have their motivations compromised when an outside organization offers to meet those deprivation needs only by also forcing a conversation on the very last one Maslow says should be addressed: self-actualization. Where you stand on this issue is for you to decide, and you can read a bit more on this entire moral quandary here and here .

Let’s move on! The volunteer insurance company you choose depends on your own travel goals, and we’ve discussed the four leading options out there that will cover most any traveler. Let’s now look more closely at the fine print you really need to know before you rely on any policy.

Before You Buy Volunteer Insurance! (Cautions and Considerations)

When volunteers search for specific “volunteer insurance,” they find an entire subset of the travel insurance industry offering plans for them specifically. Do you need a plan tailored to volunteers? Well, not usually. And in some cases it’s actually a bad idea.

If you are using a specific volunteer company that recommends one type of insurance, that  might be ideal for your trip because the policy will likely cover everything included in your volunteer experience. But if you’re doing anything a bit unconventional—traveling before or after the trip, staying on the road for a while, you should probably just shop for general travel insurance, otherwise you might find yourself stuck in a policy loophole.

One of these loopholes? Some volunteer insurance companies ( like what I found when I reviewed Volunteer Card ) do not cover you at your destination unless you intend to return home. The policy wording uses the word intention and that’s a slippery slope if you travel on a one-way or open-ended ticket, with no firm idea if you might stay on the road for a good long while. That is  not always ideal and not something that everyone understands before buying that policy.

GV prefers policies that are extendable on the road and aren’t wishy-washy about your travel intentions—perhaps you’re heading out for a few months but you’re also open to longer if the opportunity arises. Skip something like a Volunteer Card policy and select one that is directly through the insurer like IMG , or use World Nomads, which specializes in long-term travel.

Here is more advice you should read and absorb carefully, or you risk buying a policy that will not cover you for your intended trip. Although you may find terrible reviews online of your chosen insurance provider, I usually read those reviews with an eye toward understanding if the company exploited an unknown loophole, or if the traveler simply did not read their policy beforehand and did not understand their coverage. You should always read the requirements for making a claim if something goes wrong on your trip. Keep these things in mind:

• Document your valuables . To make a claim for lost or theft of valuables, you must first prove that you bought the item(s) (receipts), and that it was there with you (take a photo of valuables before you leave), and that it was stolen (an official police report). It is imperative that you fulfill each step here. Many negative reviews I read online are people who didn’t have a copy of the police report, or couldn’t generate ownership proof. Read your policy and understand exactly what is required to make a claim. Then, before you even leave for your volunteer placement, find receipts and document ownership.
• Document your illness . Call your insurance company as soon as you are ill; they help you find the best providers in the region — plus it often states in your policy that you have to do that, so when buying a policy, you agree to allow them to help you choose a provider and be involved in the process. If you don’t they might not cover it. Also, keep your paperwork! There will be a lot of back and fourths as you make the claim and the more information you have the better.
• Follow the law . One sticky situation for backpackers and expats is the rampant use of motorbikes. If you’re not licensed to drive the vehicle in your own country, then you are not covered in an accident. This is a huge loop-hole. And it sucks. But double-check things like this before you assume that if you’re in an accident on a windy Thai road that you’ll be covered if something serious happens. (See note below for more information).
• Read your policy . Seriously. It’s dry and boring. It will take at least an hour. But read it, highlight areas you didn’t know and really understand what they are covering and what they are not. And if you’re unsure, email or call them! They do always answer questions before, during, and after you’re their client.
• Things not covered . From pre-existing conditions to extreme sports, there are a few things you’re just not getting in a general travel policy, but some things might be covered in an expat policy. This is why you must read your policy.

What to Know: Travel Insurance & Driving a Motorbike

To qualify for coverage from your insurance company, you generally must be following the law when the incident happens . It surprises some travelers to know that. And even more, to understand that this applies to driving a motorbike.

If you pilot a motorbike anywhere in the world (although this is very common for travelers in Southeast Asia), you must have a motorcycle license in your home country, as well as an international driver’s license with motorcycle certification. For U.S. citizens, to secure this you must have a prior motorcycle license. If you’re missing any of these steps, the travel insurance will not cover you in the event of a motorcycle wreck that injures yourself or others. Motorcycle accidents are sadly very, very common even for experienced drivers—traffic rules in other countries, paired with bad/unknown roads means travelers wreck and hurt themselves all the time. If you’re renting a motorbike, proper safety training and certification may not only save your life, it’s required to qualify for travel insurance coverage.

Making the Right Choice for Your Situation

Never allow anyone—either in person or online—pressure you into buying a travel or volunteer insurance policy. Not all policies are the same and you may prioritize some aspects over others. When I began traveling as a solo backpacker in 2008, I used World Nomads . But I have since switched to IMG —IMG policies better covered my needs, such as when my then 11-year-old niece and I traveled and volunteered in Southeast Asia for seven months.

Although I had long loved World Nomads for the coverage of adventurous travel activities, and they worked when I volunteered too, I felt (and still feel) that IMG Patriot is often a better fit for families—the policy has better wording about what happens if the minor’s guardian is incapacitated and the minor needs another family member flown to the destination. When I decided to move overseas, instead of my peripatetic wanderings, that’s when I bought an expat policy. The right choice varied according to my personal situation, and it will for you as well.

I also carry a lot of expensive gear with me—a fancy camera, Mac laptop, and smartphone—so I carry a separate policy for my gear from Clements (which insures belongings for expats). That means that my travel and volunteer insurance companies don’t need as generous gear coverage since I insure it separately. You might go that same route, or pick a policy that fits with the amount of electronics and gear you will carry on your trip.

Every volunteer trip is different, so use this advice and information as a starting point for your own research. Best of luck and happy travels.

Founder of Grassroots Volunteering

While all the information in this post is correct to my knowledge, do your own research and verify all aspects of your travel insurance. GV and its founder cannot be held responsible for your use of any of the information provided here. No company has paid for placement in this post, the information is provided by personal recommendations. If you make a purchase based on these recommendations, GV may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Volunteer Vacations: Finding the Right Adventure Travel Insurance for Volunteers

Written by Antonio Cala.

Volunteer vacations are a great way to travel and make a positive difference in the world. These trips can be anything from building homes in rural communities to teaching English to children in developing countries. However, volunteering abroad comes with its own set of risks, and it’s important to have the right  travel insurance  to protect yourself in case of accidents, illnesses, or other unforeseen events.

Understanding Volunteer Vacation Insurance Volunteer vacation insurance is a type of travel insurance that is specifically designed for people who are volunteering abroad. It provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation,  trip cancellation , and other travel-related risks. Some volunteer organizations require their volunteers to have travel insurance, but even if it’s not required, it’s always a good idea to have it.

Choosing the right insurance plan for a volunteer vacation, it’s important to consider the type of work you’ll be doing, the length of your trip, and the countries you’ll be visiting. Some insurance policies may not cover certain activities, such as  extreme sports  or manual labor, so it’s important to read the policy carefully before purchasing. It’s also a good idea to compare quotes from different insurance providers to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.

Key Takeaways

• Volunteer vacation insurance is important to protect yourself when volunteering abroad.
• Choosing the right insurance plan  requires considering the type of work, length of trip, and countries visited.
• Comparing quotes from different providers can help find the best coverage at an affordable price.

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Table of Contents

Understanding volunteer vacation insurance.

When planning a volunteer vacation, it is important to consider purchasing travel insurance. Volunteer vacation insurance is specially designed to provide coverage for the unique risks and challenges that volunteers may face while working abroad.

Types of Coverage

Volunteer vacation insurance typically includes coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and baggage loss or delay. Some policies may also offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, adventure activities, and personal liability. It is important to carefully review the policy details to ensure that it provides adequate coverage for the volunteer’s specific needs.

Benefits of Specialized Volunteer Insurance

While traditional travel insurance policies may offer some coverage for volunteer vacations, specialized volunteer insurance policies often provide additional benefits that are tailored to the needs of volunteers. For example, some policies may offer coverage for trip interruption or cancellation due to a change in volunteer project plans or a natural disaster in the host country. Others may provide coverage for the cost of replacing a volunteer who becomes ill or injured and cannot continue their work.

In addition to providing coverage for unexpected events, volunteer vacation insurance can also provide peace of mind for volunteers and their families. Knowing that they are covered in case of an emergency can help volunteers focus on their work and enjoy their experience abroad.

Overall, purchasing volunteer vacation insurance is a smart investment for anyone planning to volunteer abroad. It can provide essential coverage for unexpected events and help ensure that volunteers have a safe and enjoyable experience while making a positive impact in the world.

Choosing the Right Insurance Plan

When it comes to finding the right  adventure travel insurance for volunteers , there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you choose the right plan for your volunteer vacation.

Assessing Your Volunteer Project Risks

Before selecting an insurance plan, it’s important to assess the risks associated with your volunteer project. Consider the type of work you’ll be doing, the location of your project, and any potential health or safety hazards.

For example, if you’ll be working in a remote area with limited medical facilities, you may want to choose a plan with comprehensive medical coverage. If your volunteer project involves physical labor, you may want to choose a plan that covers accidental injury.

Comparing Insurance Providers

Once you’ve assessed your risks, it’s time to start comparing insurance providers. Look for providers that specialize in adventure travel insurance and have experience working with volunteers.

Compare the coverage options, deductibles, and premiums of each provider to find the best fit for your needs. Don’t forget to read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the provider’s reputation.

Reading the Fine Print

Before purchasing any insurance plan, be sure to read the fine print. Look for exclusions, limitations, and any other details that may impact your coverage.

For example,  some insurance plans  may not cover certain activities or may have restrictions on the duration of your trip. Be sure to ask questions and clarify any concerns with the provider before making a final decision.

By taking the time to assess your risks, compare insurance providers, and read the fine print, you can find the right adventure travel insurance plan for your volunteer vacation.

Practical Tips for Volunteer Travelers

Preparing for your trip.

Volunteering abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to prepare properly before embarking on your journey. Here are some practical tips to help you get ready:

• Research your destination: Learn as much as you can about the country you’ll be visiting, including its customs, culture, and language. This will help you  avoid misunderstandings  and make a positive impact while you’re there.
• Get the right vaccinations: Depending on where you’re  traveling , you may need to get vaccinated against certain diseases. Check with your doctor or a travel clinic to find out what shots you need.
• Pack smart: Make a packing list and bring only what you need. Remember to include any necessary medications, travel documents, and a copy of your  travel insurance policy .

Staying Safe Abroad

Safety should be a top priority when traveling, especially when  volunteering in a foreign country . Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to what’s going on around you and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
• Avoid risky behavior: Don’t take unnecessary risks or engage in dangerous activities. This includes drinking excessively, using drugs, or traveling alone at night.
• Stay connected: Keep in touch with family and friends back home and let them know where you are and what you’re doing. Carry a charged phone and a list of emergency contacts with you at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i look for in a travel insurance policy for volunteer vacations.

When choosing a travel insurance policy for volunteer vacations, it’s important to look for coverage that includes emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and trip interruption. It’s also important to ensure that the policy covers the specific activities you plan to participate in during your volunteer vacation.

How does travel insurance for volunteer work differ from regular travel insurance?

Travel insurance for volunteer work typically provides coverage for the unique risks associated with volunteering, such as accidental injury or illness while working in a foreign country. It may also provide coverage for lost or stolen equipment used during volunteer work.

Can I get travel insurance coverage for volunteering with wildlife?

Yes, many travel insurance policies offer coverage for volunteer work with wildlife. It’s important to check with the insurance provider to ensure that the policy covers the specific activities you plan to participate in.

What are the typical costs associated with travel insurance for international volunteering?

The cost of travel insurance for international volunteering varies depending on the length of the trip, the destination, and the level of coverage needed. On average, travel insurance for international volunteering can cost between $50 to $100 per week.

Are there specific travel insurance programs recommended for volunteer travelers?

There are several travel insurance programs that are recommended for volunteer travelers, including World Nomads, IMG Patriot, and UHC SafeTrip. These programs offer coverage specifically tailored to the needs of volunteer travelers.

How do I verify that my volunteer activities are covered by a travel insurance plan?

It’s important to carefully review the policy documentation to ensure that your specific volunteer activities are covered by the travel insurance plan. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s recommended to contact the insurance provider directly for clarification.

About the Author

Antonio was born and raised in Southern Spain, and quit his job in 2013 to travel the world full-time with his wife Amanda for 10 years straight. Their passion for adventure took them to visit 150+ countries.

They cycled 25,000km + from California to Patagonia, sailed over 10,000NM around the Caribbean & Sea of Cortez, rode their motorbikes 30,000 kms+ across West Africa (Spain to South Africa) and visited Antarctica, among many other adventure expeditions.  Today, they’re still traveling,  currently around the USA with an RV.

Traveling to so many places, remote destinations and by different means taught them a lot about travel insurance, which policies to hold depending on the area and the type of adventure they were doing. Antonio now publishes regular content to help other travelers choose the best travel insurance for adventure trips.

Together, they also run the travel community Summit , the RV site Hitched Up , the boutique accommodation blog  Unique Places  and the popular newsletter Adventure Fix , where they share their knowledge about the places they’ve visited and the ones still remaining on their list.

Antonio Cala

Co-Founder of Adventure Fix

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GoEco > Travel Insurance for Volunteering Abroad

Travel Insurance for Volunteering Abroad

GoEco considers the safety and security of each of our participants as our top priority, and insurance is important to have if something unexpected happens, such as a personal injury, a flight issue or related scenario. For this reason, travel medical coverage is mandatory for the duration of your volunteer placement abroad .

We have prepared a list of trustworthy travel health insurance providers who are full members of the World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation (WYSE) . These providers offer policies that cater to volunteering , interning and long-term travel abroad . Please select the insurance provider that aligns with your specific requirements.

1. CareMed – Travel Health Insurance

2. Protrip World – Travel Health Insurance

Recommended add on:

Trip cancellation insurance (TC) by CareMed provides coverage for unexpected trip cancellations, such as because of acute illness of the insured person or a relative, accidents, or pregnancy.

While GoEco partners with the three companies listed above, make a free and fully informed decision to select any insurance provider that best suits your needs. 

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Travel Insurance for Volunteering Abroad

We believe that safety and peace of mind are vital when volunteering abroad. It is therefore one of our conditions when booking a volunteer project abroad with us that you have adequate travel & medical insurance in place. With this in mind, we have partnered with battleface , Go Walkabout and World Nomads who offer a variety of travel insurance policies which you can choose from.

Travel Insurance just for you, WorkingAbroad has partnered with battleface to provide travel insurance no matter where you are in the world. Click here to to discover which product best suits you based on your residence.

battleface policies can provide a range of travel benefits depending on your home country. These include:

Emergency Medical Expenses and Personal Accident Baggage Loss and Delay Money and Passport Business Extension and Winter Sports Cover (optional)

In addition, battleface policies include certain Covid-19 benefits and offer cover in FCDO advisory countries. Policies can also be purchased whilst already travelling (cover starts 24 hours after purchase).

Please note that terms, conditions and limitations apply so please read the policy documents in full and contact battleface at [email protected] direct with any questions.

Go Walkabout – Travel Insurance available to UK residents

Go Walkabout Travel Insurance’s mission is to provide high-quality insurance cover, at affordable premiums, to travellers resident in the UK. They offer policies to the independent traveller, whatever the style of travel. They are also able to offer cover for most adventure activities, backpackers, students, working holidays, conservation projects, and manual labour.

To find out more or request a travel insurance quote from Go Walkabout, please click here .

World Nomads – Travel Insurance available worldwide

World Nomads can offer our volunteers travel insurance policies backed by reputable insurers and 24-hour assistance providers.

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This policy is only valid for permanent UK residents aged 18 to 40 years old at the time of purchase who are registered with a UK GP and for trips departing from the United Kingdom and returning to the United Kingdom. Cover is not provided for a trip already in progress.

Please note: If you travel to a country where the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) or other regulatory authority advise against travel there will be no cover under this policy, even if the country would be otherwise covered.

This product is designed to meet the demands and needs of those who wish to ensure that they are financially protected in the event of medical emergencies, delayed departures, cancellation and curtailment, lost, stolen or delayed possessions, personal liability, loss of travel money and passport and legal expenses when travelling and if chosen, optional cover can be included if applicable. The levels of cover may vary depending on which options you choose and where you travel to.

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Best Travel Insurance for Volunteer Work--HINT, It’s Volunteer Card

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Best Travel Insurance for Volunteer Work–HINT, It’s Volunteer Card

If you’ve traveled overseas for years, months, weeks, or days—you know travel insurance is an important topic! There is a wide range of coverages you could need, and it all depends on your travel style. Are you doing volunteer travel? Are you traveling for over six months–then you’ll need a long-term policy . Maybe you’re planning a short-term volunteer trip ? Considering a specialized insurance provider in volunteer travel, like Volunteer Card is essential in getting the coverage you need.

One thing you have to keep in mind is most specialized insurance companies sell custom policies that are underwritten by another insurance company. This is extremely beneficial because companies like Volunteer Card can offer options designed for niche travelers, such as their volunteer travel insurance. Not only do you get a policy designed to fit your travel style, but you also have the added benefit of a third-party that will advocate for you if you end up needing to file a claim.

Travel insurance for volunteers

If you’ve traveled before or have volunteered abroad before, you’ll notice there are plenty of different volunteer travel insurance options for you and your team. Before you purchase a policy from any travel insurance company, you may want to consider these general facts about travel insurance:

What to know about travel insurance for volunteers:

MOST if not all travel insurance companies do not cover you at your destination unless you intend to return home . In other words, you cannot use “travel insurance” if your intention is to stay to live rather than to travel. That’s the purpose of travel insurance, to temporarily cover you while traveling abroad. You don’t exactly need your return flight booked, but you must intend to return home to your permanent residence to use travel insurance.

Your current health insurance plan probably doesn’t cover you abroad –that’s why you’ll want travel insurance with health and medical evacuation coverage.

Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered by travel insurance policies. What are pre-existing conditions? Basically, if you have an ongoing health issue, make sure to check with your insurance provider before you purchase to make sure you get the coverage you need.

Extreme sports are generally not covered in a general insurance policy. If you do intend to do some extreme sports while you’re abroad, consider Volunteer Card’s 365 Sport Plan .

Travel hiccups : Ideally, you’ll be grateful to have travel insurance if any of these situations happen during your travels:

• Your flight is delayed so you miss your next one,
• A terrorist attack happens in the city you’re in and you need to be evacuated,
• You or your traveling companion has a medical accident in a remote location
• The airline lost your baggage, or you lose your passport.

These situations, although they are not always common, they are directly impactful with whether you purchase travel insurance or not. Check out these 8 situations where it pays to have travel insurance .

What to keep track of IF you have to file a claim:

1. document your valuables.

The best way to make sure you get covered for lost or stolen items is to:

• Prove that you bought/own the item
• Save receipts from your purchase for proof of ownership
• Take a picture of valuables before you leave to prove you took them with you
• If your item was stolen, keep a copy of the official police report

2. Document your illness

If you are ill while traveling, call your 24/7 assistance provider ASAP! They will help you find the best providers in the region you are staying in. It’s important to call your insurance company, because your treatment may not be covered if the insurance company is not involved. Keep track of all your paperwork and receipts from this treatment!

3. Follow the host country’s local laws

This is incredibly important and will make your claims process much smoother! For instance, if you drive a motorbike in Thailand, but are not licensed to drive the vehicle on your own country, then you can bet you won’t be covered by your insurance in case of an accident.

Buy a card, give a meal with Volunteer Card

You’re making a difference abroad, and your insurance policy can make a difference at home.

One of the many benefits of Volunteer Card is our social mission . With every card you purchase, you provide a meal to a child in need in Southeast Asia through our in-house nonprofit, Venture . Venture meets the basic needs of refugees and trafficked/risk of being trafficked villages with meals, water, shelter, education, and much more.

In addition to giving a meal with every insurance card you buy, Volunteer Card is part of Venture Basecamp. Venture Basecamp is a group of businesses who cover the admin of Venture so when people donate to Venture, 100% of the donation goes straight to the projects and programs –not overhead, administration costs.

The US Ambassador to World Hungar Issues, Congressman Tony Hall DOES endorse Venture:

“I enthusiastically endorse the work of Venture. Their proven ability to get food to the Myanmar refugees is both unique and urgently needed.”  – Ambassador Tony Hall

Venture was also featured on CNN True Heroes.

Distinguished watchdog in America, Charity Navigator , gave Venture a top rating of 4 stars putting Venture in the top 1% of ALL charities in the nation for fiscal accountability and transparency.

Ready to buy your travel insurance plan? Compare the insurance policies at Volunteer Card , starting as low as $29! 

About Erik Sorensen

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Volunteer Travel Insurance

Most of the time your volunteer trip abroad will go smoothly, but sometimes luck just isn’t on your side and things go wrong. That’s why travel insurance is compulsory for all IVHQ volunteers.

Volunteering includes a wide range of activities that standard travel insurance or medical insurance policies might not cover, including:

• Volunteering work abroad (e.g. teaching, childcare, construction, animal care, medical care)
• Emergency medical transportation, treatment, and hospitalization while abroad
• Emergency repatriation to your home country
• Trip interruption costs
• Loss, theft or accidental damage to your bags, tech, travel documents, and gear
• Adventure activities (e.g scuba diving, hiking, surfing, bungee jumping)

That’s why IVHQ offers its own travel insurance cover for our volunteers that has been customized specifically for the types of claims you may need to make while traveling abroad with us.

See what’s covered

IVHQ’s travel insurance has been customized specifically for our volunteers and is the same price for everyone, no matter where you live or where you are traveling to (although we are not able to offer cover for travel to mainland USA or Cuba). There is also no minimum or maximum age limit on our cover.

Our cover commences when you depart your home country and you will need to submit any claims within 30 days of a claimable event occurring.

IVHQ’s travel insurance is administered by CISI, one of the world’s leading providers of insurance for study abroad and international student travel – although IVHQ's insurance cover is available to everyone. The cover is underwritten by Crum & Forster Specialty Insurance Company, an “A” rated insurance provider with a 200-year underwriting history.

Key benefits of IVHQ’s travel insurance:

Same price for everyone.

No matter how old you are, where you live, or where you’re going.

Generous benefit allowances

Higher allowance limits than other providers.

Covid-19 cover included

Claims for costs or delays related to Covid-19 infection abroad are treated like any other medical condition.

24/7 emergency assistance while abroad

Get assistance and advice quickly if something happens to you.

Cover for up to 320 volunteering & vacation activities

Whatever you’re likely to do on your trip, our insurance should have you covered.

What’s covered by IVHQ’s travel insurance

Standard plan.

• Most affordable option
• 240 activities covered
• Cover starts when you depart your home country
• Global cover (excluding travel to the USA & Cuba) for multi-country trips
• Can cover your entire vacation, including non-volunteering periods

ADVENTURE PLAN

• Upgraded cover for up 320 activities
• Covers construction and renovation volunteer work
• Covers medical & healthcare volunteer work

*Disclaimer: Personal liability is covered if you purchase your Travel Insurance after 19 October 2023.

How to buy IVHQ Travel Insurance

Step 1: Register for a program

To purchase IVHQ’s Travel Insurance, you must first apply and confirm your participation in one of our volunteer programs.

Step 2: Refer to your pre-trip checklist

Once you have secured your place in the program, visit your MyIVHQ checklist to buy Travel Insurance cover.

Travel Insurance FAQ’s

IVHQ’s travel insurance treats a Covid-19 infection like any other medical condition. Therefore, if you become infected with Covid-19 while abroad, you’ll benefit from full coverage up to the policy limits for medical expenses. In addition, you’ll be covered for any trip interruption and trip delay costs, including quarantine, up to the maximum benefit listed above.

If you’ve already purchased an alternative travel insurance product and checked that it covers everything you need, please log in to your MyIVHQ account and tick it off your pre-departure checklist now!

We highly recommend securing travel insurance cover that is specific for volunteering abroad. Your health insurance plan or insurance provided by your credit card are not likely to meet the minimum coverage requirements for your trip.

Yes! Purchase cover for the entire period you’ll be overseas and your policy will cover your entire trip. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, choose the destination where you’ll spend the most time when purchasing cover - but you’ll be covered for all countries you’ll visit on your trip (excluding travel to the USA and Cuba).

Travel insurance do’s and don’ts

If you want to be sure you’re covered for a certain activity on your trip, then review the Policy Document or contact CISI directly.

Many travel insurance policies won’t cover you if you were drunk, using illicit drugs or breaking the law.

Sometimes you’ll need to pay up front for something then submit a claim against your insurance. In these instances, you must provide receipts and independent proof of what’s happened to you (like police and/or medical reports) in order to be reimbursed.

Some activities you may participate in during an IVHQ volunteering trip may not be included automatically in your travel insurance. If in doubt, just ask your insurance provider.

It’s very important you know exactly what’s covered and what’s not. The last thing you want to have happen is to get in a scooter crash only to find out you’re not insured to ride scooters. Reading your policy document is the only way to know exactly what you are and aren’t covered for.

IVHQ can’t take responsibility for assisting you if you have an accident and your travel insurance policy doesn’t cover you. You are the sole person responsible for making sure your insurance is sufficiently comprehensive to cover all your travel activities and personal needs.

Cheaper policies usually provide less cover. If you do need to make a claim, you won’t want to discover you’re ineligible because you chose to save a few dollars when purchasing your policy.

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Quick travel insurance tips for volunteering

If you’re thinking of swapping out your laid-back Caribbean cruise or breezy beach stop for a stint of voluntary work abroad, you’re not alone.

Volunteering vacations are growing in popularity with plenty of travellers opting to use their time-off to help those in need. Whether you’re offering to plant crops in Nepal, teach English in Haiti or care for animals in Bolivia, travel insurance should be an essential part of your volunteering emergency kit.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Whilst extremely rewarding, the risks of volunteering abroad can be numerous. Working in potentially hazardous conditions can heighten the chances of having an accident or falling ill. Some overseas voluntary programs will provide you with travel cover, whilst others require you to purchase your own cover. Either way, take cover before jetting off!

What’s covered by travel insurance when you volunteer overseas?

Travel insurance takes care of the stuff you just can’t control. Accidents, illness, cancellation cover , theft and/or loss of your personal belongings are all covered for by comprehensive policies, allowing you to get on with your rewarding efforts.

Five top reasons to pack travel insurance

• You fall down the stairs at the school you teach at and break an ankle. Your policy will pay for medication, X-rays or any medical fees you incur. • You experience severe stomach cramps distributing aid in Haiti and are rushed to the hospital with appendicitis. Travel cover will pay for any emergency surgery you require. • Your passport is drenched and ruined after a sudden tropical rainstorm. Any expense you incurred whilst replacing your passport will be covered by your insurer. • Your handbag is swiped off you by a passing tuk-tuk riding bandit. Your handbag’s contents will be reimbursed provided you report the theft to the relevant authority and your insurance provider as soon as possible. • You miss your post volunteering flight from Peru to Chile because the airport bus you were in broke down. Reassuringly, you will be reimbursed you for any unforeseen travel delay or accommodation expenses you need.

What’s not covered?

•  Volunteering which involves manual labour Fulfilling your dream of building a world class school or hospital in a third world country may not fly with some insurers. No matter how hard-hatted or well-equipped your team, most travel policies will not provide cover for any injuries sustained whilst performing manual work. •  Countries on warning lists If the country you’re travelling to finds its way onto any ‘do not travel’ lists, you would still be covered, but not for incidents related to the warning. Confused? Put it this way; if the country you are travelling to has a ‘terrorist’ travel warning, you would still be covered for theft or illness. However, if you are injured in an act of terrorism your claim would not be paid out. •  Working with animals If you plan to volunteer with animals, most insurers won’t explicitly reject your claim should an accident occur.  However bear in mind that without a safe, controlled environment, a degree of animal training and reasonable protective care, your claim could be scrapped. Do your homework when purchasing cover as some insurers, like Columbus Direct , exclude any type of animal work within their policy. •  Not getting vaccinated Just like any happy partnership, both you and your travel insurer should work together to prevent a catastrophe whilst abroad. Entering a third world countries without the required vaccinations could jeopardize your claim, not least your health! When in doubt, follow the vaccination advice given by SafeTravel and see your G.P before flying off. •  Customers with pre-existing medical conditions Whilst you should always notify your provider about any pre-existing medical conditions before purchasing travel insurance, doing so is especially essential if you are planning to volunteer in a remote location with restricted access to medical facilities.

What’s next?

Ready for your huge volunteering adventure? Just like your yellow fever shots and anti-malarial medication, it wouldn’t be safe to pack up without securing the best travel cover possible. Depending on where you’re going, what you’re doing and for how long, it’s worth comparing travel policies before locking in the right cover for your trip. Heading overseas to help the disadvantaged can be totally life changing, but it’s essential to safeguard yourself first before securing others.

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Volunteers Travel Insurance Policies

Our AIG Longstay & Backpacker policies are suitable for :

• Manual work, construction sites, working with machinery
• Farm work, including working with animals and agricultural machinery
• Working on an animal sanctuary with wild animals, including big cats etc
• Long stay working trips up to 18 months duration
• Volunteering, charitable or paid work
• These policies are not online – please phone 0161 973 6435 or email [email protected] for quotes or booking.

Our Silver, Pearl, Gold, and Diamond policies are suitable for:

• Clerical work
• Bar and restaurant work
• Fruit and vegetable picking
• Light farm work
• Voluntary and charitable work
• Light manual work using hand tools or hand power tools
• Work with small domestic animals in a supervised environment

Volunteering abroad is more popular than ever, and with university becoming increasingly expensive more and more people are heading out to foreign shores to carry out volunteering roles, either as part of a gap year or as a career break. Voluntary work can vary from doing environmental projects in Costa Rica or working with animals in a wildlife sanctuary or refuge, to teaching English as a foreign language in China , there are a huge range of opportunities for those prepared to up sticks and move away from their home comforts. Whatever volunteering role you decide is right for you, it’s important you get the right insurance cover for your volunteer project abroad, so in the event of accidents etc in your new workplace then you have a suitable travel insurance policy available to fall back on. If your volunteering project involves manual work, or work of a potentially dangerous nature, such as working with either domestic or wild animals, you should refer it to us for specific agreement. In these cases, there will almost certainly be additional cost involved and additional conditions attached to the cover.

Whether you are just finishing school, fresh out of university or taking a career break, doing volunteering work abroad is a great way to explore the world and get an insight into a different culture that you would never experience on a more orthodox backpacking trip. Immersing yourself in the international volunteer community and becoming part of the day to day life of people who live in a wide variety of fascinating destinations is an incredibly rewarding way to travel. But it’s important not to forget that someone has to look after you as well, and getting a suitable travel insurance policy is step 1 of that process.

At Navigator we want to make the process of getting specific travel insurance for volunteering as simple as possible. It is important that you read the policy wording document and understand the limitations of work-related cover on travel insurance policies. As previously mentioned, additional costs and conditions will apply to manual or potentially dangerous work, so need to be referred. Personal Liability cover is excluded for work-related claims, whether the work is paid, unpaid, charity or volunteering. Additional compensation for death, disablement, loss of sight/limb etc is also excluded for work-related accidents, though medical expenses are covered, as long as the type of work has been declared, if manual or if it carries additional risk. The type of volunteering you are doing is likely to change the type of travel insurance cover you need as English teachers are at lower risk than those involved in outdoor, manual work. Depending on how long you are going away for and what work you are doing you will pick from our 3 main policies:

• Annual Multi Trip Policy
• Long Stay Single Trip Policy
• Short Stay Single Trip Policy

If you do have questions about what the best volunteers travel insurance policy is for you then don’t hesitate to call us on 0161 973 6435 or, alternatively, if you’ve seen everything you need to then why not  get a quote online  right now!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can i get travel insurance for working with wild animals.

We have policies that will cover working with animals of all kinds. Generally, there is no supplement for working with domestic animals or smaller wild animals. We can cover working with dangerous animals, big game species etc, at a supplement, as long as you are working in an organized environment, such as an animal sanctuary, or working for a conservation organization etc.

I am doing voluntary work involving manual work, construction, using tools and machinery. Can I be covered for this work?

We have policies that will cover this type of work at no extra cost.

Can I be covered for Personal Liability whilst doing charitable work or volunteering?

We cannot cover work-related liability claims if they arise in the workplace, whether the work is paid, unpaid, voluntary or charitable. So, if you cause injury to someone else or damage their property, while you are working, these policies will not cover you.

I want to get involved with aid work or volunteering in a war zone or disaster area. Do you have a suitable policy?

Our High Risk Voyager policy would be the most suitable of our products to use in areas of extreme risk. Though we have other policies which are not invalidated if you travel against to a country FCO advice, they are not suitable for areas where there is extreme risk, such as war zones and earthquake-affected areas, but the High Risk Voyager policy is a specialist product and would cover you.

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Cover for multiple trips.

• Up to 45 days each trip
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Long Stay Single Trip

Cover from 2 to 18 months.

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• Working holidays abroad

Short Stay Single Trip

Cover for up to 45 days.

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Best travel insurance for volunteering

Travel insurance is all about being prepared. Volunteering abroad is an amazing and exciting adventure and being prepared for any eventuality puts your and your family’s mind at rest. Ensuring you have appropriate travel insurance in place is one of the most important first steps.

Pod has teamed up with Banner, one of the UK’s leading providers of specific travel insurance to volunteers working abroad.

Richard Burges from Banner gives 3 top tips for travel insurance:

1. The most important thing is to ensure you have the correct cover in place for your particular trip. Double check that your travel insurance covers you for all that you may need. As part of the Banner policy, Medical and Emergency travel is covered up to £5,000,000

2. Take copies of your travel insurance policy with you and leave them with a friend or family member at home, so that you know someone else has all your details too. As part of the Banner policy, the loss of passports / documents is covered.

3. Ensure you have enough money for your trip including some back up funds for emergencies. If your money or possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police and keep a copy of the police report for your insurance claim. As part of the Banner policy, money is covered up to £750

Banner has all your travel insurance needs covered. A travel insurance product designed specifically with you in mind:

• Hassle free application process
• Activities are covered that are not normally included, such as working with animals and children
• Travel before or after your volunteering placement can be covered
• Non EU nationals can be covered

Banner has ensured that their travel insurance covers you for the most important circumstances that may occur, so you don’t have to worry.

To see more details about the travel insurance policy and purchase a policy online please see our volunteer travel insurance page.

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The Guide to Travel Insurance for Trips to Europe

After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure. She previously worked as a reporter for The Points Guy. Her writing has since been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When she's not flying, you'll usually find her in a Priority Pass lounge somewhere, sipping tea and cursing slow Wi-Fi.

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

How travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for health insurance while traveling in europe, other tips for travel and medical insurance in europe, which credit cards offer europe travel insurance, travel insurance for europe recapped.

Traveling abroad can be an exhilarating adventure, especially when you’re heading to Europe. Whether you’re in the mood for an eclair or want to take in the Colosseum, making your way over to Europe involves a lot of moving parts.

That’s why travel insurance can be so beneficial. With protections such as trip delay reimbursement and coverage for lost luggage, travel insurance can help make sure your trip stays smooth.

What’s more, several plans include travel health insurance in Europe, so you can worry less about whether that hike through the Alps is a good idea.

Let’s take a look at travel insurance in Europe as well as other coverage options for your vacations.

Because a lot of thought, money and effort go into planning and taking a vacation, protecting your investments (and yourself) with travel insurance can make the difference between an enjoyable memory and a disastrous anecdote you tell at mealtimes.

Travel insurance can cover a variety of things, including:

Accidental death insurance .

Baggage delay and lost luggage insurance .

Cancel for Any Reason insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance .

Medical insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Trip delay insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

Trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption and lost luggage insurance are all sources of protection when you travel, especially on airlines. These can reimburse you for nonrefundable expenses you miss out on due to covered delays, and may pay you back for costs you end up incurring (including lodging, meals, toiletries and clothing).

Although it’s possible to get standard health insurance for trips abroad, it’s much more common to get coverage for emergency care, which includes protections for unexpected injuries and illnesses.

Health insurance for European travel is usually included with a standard travel insurance policy, but there are plan limits and there may be deductibles.

It’s also possible to purchase medical-only travel insurance from certain providers if you aren’t interested in other trip protections.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

Before you start shopping for travel and medical insurance in Europe, evaluate the level of coverage you need based on your age, health, trip duration, destination and planned activities (some adventure sports aren't always covered). Compare plans from different providers, paying attention to coverage, benefits and prices.

Here's a short list of factors to consider:

The cost of the policy. 

The limits of the plan.

Whether there are deductibles.

Whether the benefits are primary or secondary.

Where you’re going. 

How long your trip is.

Whether you already have insurance that’ll cover you.  

The types of activities you’ll be doing. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) can streamline your shopping experience. Be sure to also read reviews and ratings of individual travel insurance companies to get an idea of customer service and claim resolution processes.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

To figure out the best plans for travel and health insurance in Europe, we generated quotes from multiple travel insurance companies using a test scenario. For this example, we used a 37-year-old Nevada resident traveling to Germany for 11 days with a $4,000 trip cost. Here are the winners.

GeoBlue’s Voyager Choice medical insurance for European travel sits head and shoulders above the rest for cost, at only $28.16.

That said, there's a reason it is so affordable. This plan offers coverage only for medical emergencies and lacks other trip protections. It is a good option if you want to supplement existing travel coverage (say via your credit card ) with more medical coverage.

$1 million in medical coverage.

$0 deductible.

Offers direct billing.

No trip protections.

Pre-existing condition coverage requires that you have domestic health insurance.

Can only purchase plans up to six months in advance of your trip. 

» Learn more: Read our full GeoBlue travel insurance review

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel SE’s comprehensive plan includes both trip protections and health insurance for Europe travel and rings in at just $135.36.

At this price point, it provides excellent primary coverage for medical insurance, offers rental car insurance and includes superior trip interruption reimbursement.

$250,000 in medical coverage.

$40,000 in rental car insurance. 

Pre-existing conditions covered. 

Travel delay reimbursement kicks in after 12 hours. 

Baggage loss is capped at $250 per item and $1,500 total.

More expensive than other options. 

» Learn more: Read our full review of IMG travel insurance

3. Detour Insurance

The Detour Insurance @The Edge insurance plan is aptly named. Costing $86.90, the plan offers a unique inclusion for the costs of search and rescue, which can provide peace of mind if you're participating in backcountry adventures.

$1 million limit for medical evacuation. 

Coverage can be extended. 

$10,000 for search and rescue. 

No rental car insurance. 

Pre-existing conditions not covered. 

$50,000 limit for 24-hour accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. 

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

4. Trawick International

Trawick International’s Safe Travels Protect plan includes primary medical coverage as well as a wide range of trip protections. At $100.03, it even covers cancellations for medical reasons.

$25,000 in emergency medical coverage.

100% for both trip cancellation and trip interruption. 

Medical quarantine coverage included. 

$100 medical deductible.

$500 lost luggage limit (not a great fit if you are packing several valuables).

Doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. 

» Learn more: Read our full Trawick International review

Do you have a travel credit card ? Many of these cards offer complimentary travel insurance as a part of their benefits. 

The plan you select may offer secondary coverage, but this matters only if you have existing insurance. In its absence, secondary coverage becomes primary. 

Look at your existing health insurance policy. Some plans will provide emergency coverage for you when traveling internationally. 

If you’re planning on heading for the Dolomites or other European mountains for winter sports, be sure that your travel insurance covers adventure activities; not all do. Travel insurance can rescue a ski or snowboard trip , but read the fine print to see what exclusions apply before you purchase a policy. 

» Learn more: 5 tips before buying Schengen visa travel insurance

If you’re looking for insurance when traveling to Europe, you may already have it without knowing. Many travel credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance.

Available types of insurance can include rental car insurance, emergency medical insurance, trip cancellation reimbursement, lost luggage protection and trip delay insurance.

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

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per passenger for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $2,000 per person for nonrefundable airline, bus, train or ferry tikets.

• Trip interruption: Up to $2,000 per person for nonrefundable airline, bus, train or ferry tikets.

• Lost or damaged luggage : Up to $3,000 per passenger.

» Learn more: How to choose a credit card for Europe travel

Staying safe is important during your trip to Europe. Health insurance for travel can make a difference, especially if you’re planning on doing anything adventurous. The same can be said for other trip protections, which reimburse you for covered expenses that you incur.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

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.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g., plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

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

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.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 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.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 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.

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

8 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

Trawick International »

World Nomads Travel Insurance »

AXA Assistance USA »

Generali Global Assistance »

Seven Corners »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

IMG Travel Insurance »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Trawick International
• World Nomads Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA

There are plenty of smart ways to save money on your travel plans, but refusing to buy travel insurance isn't necessarily one of them. Not having travel insurance can mean being on the hook for exorbitant medical bills or costs for emergency transportation if you become sick or injured during your trip. You could also face significant financial losses if your trip is delayed or your bags are lost or stolen, and without travel insurance you won't have a third party to rely on for assistance.

Buying affordable travel insurance makes more sense than skipping this coverage altogether, so read on to find out which companies offer the cheapest plans and all the protections you can get for a low cost.

How We Chose the Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

To determine the cheapest travel insurance companies, U.S. News created sample traveler profiles for three separate eight-day trips to different destinations (the Cayman Islands, Spain and California) at a range of price points ($6,500, $10,500 and $8,500, respectively). We used that information to get quotes for the cheapest option for 100% trip cancellation coverage for each trip. We then calculated the average cost of the trips.

The travel insurance companies that made our ranking have a high credit rating and offer the lowest average cost, outlined below. (Note: The sample average costs are not price quotes from U.S. News. To find a travel insurance price quote, use the "View plans" link to enter your trip details and find more information.)

• Generali Global Assistance
• Seven Corners
• Allianz Travel Insurance
• IMG Travel Insurance
• Trip cancellation coverage (up to $30,000) for 100% of the insured vacation
• Trip interruption coverage (up to $30,000) for 100% of the insured vacation
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($150 per day for delays of 12 hours or more)
• $750 in coverage for lost and damaged luggage; $200 for baggage delays
• Up to $500 in coverage for missed connections of three hours or more
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage ($750 sublimit for emergency dental)
• Up to $200,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $2,500 of trip protection for cancellation or interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage of lost, stolen or damaged baggage; up to $750 for baggage delays on your outward journey
• Up to $100,000 in emergency medical insurance; $750 dental sublimit
• Up to $300,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• 24-hour travel assistance services

SEE FULL REVIEW »

• Up to 100% coverage for trip cancellation and interruption
• Up to $500 in coverage for trip delays ($100 per day)
• Up to $500 in coverage for missed connections
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $750 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $200 for baggage delays
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for common carrier AD&D
• Coverage up to 100% of the insured vacation for trip cancellation
• Up to 125% of the insured vacation cost for trip interruption
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $1,000 per person ($150 per person daily limit)
• Up to $1,000 per person for lost, damaged or stolen bags; $200 per person for baggage delays
• Up to $500 per person for missed connections
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency assistance and transportation
• AD&D coverage for air travel worth up to $50,000 per person ($100,000 per plan)
• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to 100% of the cost of the trip
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $600 (for six-hour delays; $200 limit per person per day)
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $500
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $500 (for six-hour delays; $100 per day)
• Missed cruise or tour coverage worth up to $500 ($250 per day)
• Emergency accident and sickness medical coverage worth up to $100,000 (secondary coverage)
• Up to $750 in emergency dental coverage
• Up to $250,000 in protection for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to $10,000 per traveler
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to $10,000 per traveler
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $300 ($150 per day)
• Luggage loss and damage protection up to $500 per traveler
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $200 per day
• Emergency medical and dental coverage up to $10,000 ($500 for dental expenses)
• Emergency medical transportation coverage worth up to $50,000
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Up to 100% in coverage for trip cancellation
• Trip interruption benefit worth up to 125% of the trip cost
• Up to $500 for travel delays per person ($125 daily maximum per person)
• Up to $750 for lost, damaged or stolen bags ($250 maximum per item)
• Up to $150 in luggage delay coverage
• Up to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of trip cost (up to $10,000)
• Trip interruption coverage up to 100% of trip cost
• Up to $500 in coverage for travel delays (five-hour delay required; $100 daily limit)
• Coverage worth up to $1,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage ($250 per item)
• Coverage worth up to $200 for baggage delays of 12 hours or more
• Up to $250 in coverage for airline reissue or cancellation fees
• Up to $250 in coverage for reinstatement of frequent traveler awards
• Emergency medical and illness coverage worth up to $10,000
• Up to $500 in coverage for emergency dental expenses
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• AD&D coverage worth up to $10,000
• Travel assistance services

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

Holly Johnson

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations.

The 5 Best International Travel Insurance Companies for 2024

International travel insurance is a must-have for every trip abroad, and for more reasons than one.

Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?

Private health insurance typically doesn't cover international travel expenses.

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