cruise travel insurance coverage

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Cruise Insurance: Why You Need It + 4 Best Options for 2024

Seven Corners »

Travelex Insurance Services »

AXA Assistance USA »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Seven Corners
• Travelex Insurance Services

Cruise vacations come with the same considerations as any other trip, including the potential for trip cancellations, trip interruptions, unforeseen medical expenses and even a need for emergency medical evacuation. Add in the potential for unruly weather during hurricane season , and it's easy to see why cruise insurance plans are so popular and recommended.

Read on to find out which cruise travel insurance plans U.S. News recommends and how they can protect the investment you made in a cruise when something goes wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions:

All cruise insurance plans are unique, and some have different coverages than others. However, most travel insurance plans for cruises cover the following:

• Trip delays, interruptions and cancellations: This kind of coverage is essential any time of the year, but especially during hurricane season when storms can impact your travel plans. 
• Protection for medical emergencies: This type of coverage can help pay for unexpected medical bills if you're injured on board the ship or hurt during a shore excursion. You can also choose a cruise insurance plan that covers emergency medical evacuation from the ship or to the nearest hospital.
• Coverage for lost or delayed baggage: Coverage for baggage is important for cruises just like any other trip. This type of insurance can pay for essential items you need to buy if your bags are lost or stolen and don't make it on the ship. 

With each of these protections, a coverage limit is listed with your plan. This means you may get reimbursed for your losses or prepaid travel expenses up to this limit, but only when a covered reason applies to your claim.

One of the main reasons to buy cruise insurance is for medical emergencies. Note that, once you're on a cruise ship or visiting a destination outside the United States, your own U.S. health insurance plan will not apply. The same truth applies if you have government health coverage like Medicare.

You can purchase cruise insurance through your cruise line, but these plans are often very basic with low limits for medical expenses and other coverages. For example, cruise line travel insurance policies often come with just $25,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses and up to $50,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation, which may not be enough.

Fortunately, you can buy cruise insurance from any travel insurance provider when planning this type of trip. By buying coverage from an independent travel insurance provider instead of your cruise line, you get to select the exact coverages and limits you need for the best protection possible.

• Seven Corners: Best Overall
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best for Families
• AXA Assistance USA: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best Cost

Plan is cruise-specific

Get coverage for missed cruise connections and tours

Medical expense coverage is secondary if you opt for lower-tier Basic plan

• Up to 150% in reimbursement for trip interruption
• Up to $250 per person, per day in trip delay coverage ($2,000 maximum)
• Up to $250 per day in missed tour or cruise connection coverage ($1,500 maximum)
• Primary emergency medical expense coverage worth up to $500,000
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains coverage worth up to $1 million
• Political and security evacuation coverage worth up to $20,000
• Up to $2,500 in protection for baggage and personal effects (limit per item of $250)
• Up to $100 per day ($500 maximum) in coverage for baggage delays of six hours or more

Travel Select plan offers coverage with pricing for kids included

Customize your plan with additional medical coverage, adventure sports coverage and more

Only $1,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects

$200 maximum coverage for baggage delays

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of total trip cost (maximum $50,000)
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 150% of trip cost (maximum $75,000)
• $2,000 in trip delay coverage for a delay of at least five hours ($250 per day)
• $750 in coverage for missed connections (delay of at least three hours required)
• Emergency medical expense coverage worth up to $50,000 (dental emergency sublimit of $500 included)
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage worth up to $500,000
• $1,000 in protection for baggage and personal effects
• Up to $200 in coverage for baggage delays (at least 12-hour delay required)
• Travel assistance services

Provides comprehensive coverage for all aspects of cruising

High policy limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation

Does not offer cruise-specific travel insurance

• Trip cancellation coverage up to 100%
• Trip interruption protection up to 150%
• $1,250 in travel delay coverage ($300 per day)
• $1,500 in protection for missed connections
• Emergency accident and sickness coverage up to $250,000
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $1 million
• Nonmedical emergency evacuation coverage up to $100,000
• $50,000 in accidental death and dismemberment coverage
• Baggage and personal item coverage up to $3,000
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $600

Comes with enhanced medical and luggage benefits, protections for cruise ship disablement, and more

Cruise delay coverage kicks in after five hours

Baggage delay coverage is only for $200 and doesn't kick in for 24 hours

No option to purchase CFAR coverage

• Up to $75,000 in protection for emergency medical care
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains coverage worth up to $750,000
• Cruise cancellation coverage for 100% of trip cost up to $25,000 per person
• Cruise interruption coverage for 150% of trip cost up to $37,500 per person
• Cruise delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($200 per day for delays of five hours or more)
• Missed connection coverage worth up to $500 (for delay of three hours or more)
• Cruise ship disablement coverage worth up to $500
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for baggage and personal effects

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered international travel, travel insurance and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has researched and compared all the top travel insurance options for her own family for trips to more than 50 countries, some of which have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg – a travel agent who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states.

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Smooth Sailing Ahead: Your Guide to Cruise Travel Insurance [2023]

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

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Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners

Best cruise travel insurance with covid-19 coverage: battleface, best cruise travel insurance for young travelers: aegis, best cruise travel insurance for adventure tours: img, best cruise travel insurance, cancel for any reason coverage: john hancock insurance agency, what is cruise insurance, is cruise insurance worth it, cruise insurance costs, types of cruise insurance, what to look for in a cruise travel insurance policy, how to get cruise insurance, final thoughts.

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Taking a cruise is one of the easiest ways to travel, but cruising isn’t immune to unexpected hiccups. Sudden illness, travel delays, or other unforeseen events could cancel or interrupt your cruising plans — you might even need medical coverage. 

With cruise insurance, you’re covered for unexpected issues that can interfere with your travel plans . Read on to learn what cruise insurance is, how to get it, and how to find the best cruise insurance policies, whether you’re buying directly from the cruise line or a third-party insurance company.

The 5 Best Cruise Travel Insurance Policies

The right cruise insurance policy offers the coverage you need at a good price, but policies aren’t one-size-fits-all. We’ve run quotes for various coverage scenarios — from seniors to adventure tours — to find the best cruise insurance policies . 

Consider these travel insurance policies for your next cruise:

Seniors cruising the world can get comprehensive coverage from Seven Corners Travel Insurance . We were quoted $89 for a 70-year-old cruising Mexico . The Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic policy offers trip cancellation and interruption, medical coverage, and medical evacuation, along with COVID-19 cancellation and medical coverage.

Comprehensive travel insurance, regardless of your age, is widely available and relatively affordable. Check out our complete guide to travel insurance for seniors .

If you’re concerned about COVID-19 derailing your cruise travel plans, getting cruise travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is essential. The battleface Discovery Plan covers COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses, along with regular trip cancellation, medical evacuation, and medical emergency coverage. We were quoted $36.54 for a 35-year-old cruising Italy on this plan.

Young travelers often have the lowest-priced travel insurance policies. We got a quote for just $30.27 from Aegis for a 22-year-old cruising the Bahamas . The Aegis Go Ready Choice policy covers COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, medical evacuation, and medical expenses.

Are you planning adventurous excursions on your cruise? IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite , with options for winter, adventure, and extreme sports, can give you the coverage you need. We were quoted $58.87 for a 40-year-old traveler cruising to Costa Rica with plans to zipline . It covers trip cancellation and interruption, medical expenses, medical evacuation, and adventure sports with some exclusions, such as diving and adventure races.

Your travel insurance might not cover everything you want to do — particularly if you plan on adventure activities. Here’s our complete guide to adventure and extreme sports travel insurance .

If you’re especially concerned you may need to cancel your cruise, Cancel for Any Reason coverage allows you to cancel your trip and receive partial reimbursement for nonrefundable trip expenses, even if you cancel for reasons not normally covered by trip cancellation coverage. We were quoted $100.50 for a 55-year-old cruising Alaska for John Hancock Insurance Agency’s Silver plan , which reimburses up to 75% of your trip cost under Cancel for Any Reason coverage. It also offers coverage for COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, and medical expenses and evacuation with primary coverage.

Cruise insurance is travel insurance that covers cruises . It can help you manage all the what-ifs on your cruise. What if you need to cancel your booking? What if your flight is late? What if you get sick or hurt? Travel insurance for cruises can cover you for all of these things. 

Many travel insurance policies cover cruises, but cruise insurance may be tailored to the risks of cruises, covering transportation, accommodations, and activities. Getting travel insurance for cruises can offer peace of mind if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable trip payments, travel delays, or covering emergency medical care.

Cruise bookings can be unforgiving, and cruise insurance can help you minimize your risk of losing the money you’ve paid for your trip. Travel insurance coverage is often a good idea if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses or covering emergency medical expenses . 

Because cruises are often less flexible than other types of travel, it’s generally a good idea to get cruise travel insurance. For example, you might be able to rebook a flight or hotel room, but if you cancel your cruise, you could lose your deposit or more. Often, cruise lines won’t offer any refunds if you cancel within a certain period before your cruise, such as 14 or 30 days .

Additionally, you shouldn’t expect your U.S.-based health insurance plan to cover you on your cruise, especially if you’re on an international cruise. And it’s exceptionally expensive if you need to be evacuated for a medical condition.

While everyone hopes for smooth sailing, the reality is a lot of unexpected issues could pop up on your cruise. Your flight to the cruise port could be delayed, you might get sick or injured on your cruise, or you might have to cancel the whole thing if illness or obligations prevent you from going on your cruise. A hurricane could interfere with cruising in storm hotspots such as the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. 

Cruise insurance can offer financial support for many unexpected problems you might experience with a cruise. And with a 24-hour travel assistance hotline , you can get knowledgeable help whether you need to find a local pharmacy or coordinate the replacement of lost travel documents such as your passport.

That said, you might have travel insurance coverage available with a credit card . Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical treatment and evacuation, and travel delay coverage. Still, you should check the details of your credit card’s coverage to ensure it’s enough for your needs. 

Looking for a credit card with travel protections? Read our guide to the best credit cards for travel insurance coverage and protection.

Generally, expect cruise insurance to cost between 5% to 10% of the total cost of your cruise . For a $3,000 cruise, you’ll typically pay between $150 to $300 for comprehensive travel insurance coverage. But keep in mind several factors influence the cost of cruise insurance, including:

• Add-ons, such as CFAR 
• Coverage options 
• Cruise cost 
• Deductibles and limits 
• Destination 
• Group policies 
• Traveler age 
• Trip duration

Learn more about travel insurance costs in our guide to the average cost of travel insurance .

What Cruise Insurance Covers

Each travel insurance policy is unique, but travel insurance for cruise coverage typically includes:

• 24/7 Assistance: You can get 24/7 support for itinerary changes, rebooking, medical emergencies, and more.
• Baggage Protection: Your luggage is covered for loss, theft, or damage on your flight or during your cruise.
• Cabin Confinement: You may get reimbursement if you have to stay in your cabin during your cruise, such as a required quarantine due to COVID-19.
• Cancel for Any Reason: Usually available as an add-on, CFAR travel insurance allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement of your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Itinerary Changes: You can get covered for changes in your cruise’s itinerary, missed port calls, or extended delays beyond your control.
• Missed Connections: If you miss your cruise departure due to a flight delay or other covered reason, you can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical Emergencies: Cruise insurance can cover medical treatment on the cruise and may offer coverage for medical evacuation.
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: You can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses if you cancel your cruise or end your trip early due to covered reasons such as illness or injury. You’re typically covered if the cruise line cancels due to mechanical issues, weather, or other unforeseen events.

Cruise-specific travel insurance may also offer reimbursement if your cruise ship is disabled. And if you want to cover shore excursions, be sure to include the cost of excursions in your total travel cost when you get quotes for cruise insurance.

While these coverage types are common among cruise insurance policies, checking the terms and conditions to confirm all coverage areas is a good idea.

There are many options for travel insurance, and you can generally choose as little or as much coverage as you’d like. You can opt for a comprehensive travel insurance policy, which may offer Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, or you might prefer to limit your costs and choose just the coverage you need. For example, you might choose standalone trip cancellation insurance or a travel medical insurance policy but decide you don’t need coverage for missed connections or baggage.

Consider these factors as you compare the best cruise travel insurance policies:

• Cancellation Window: Understand how many days before your cruise departure you must cancel to qualify for reimbursement.
• Coverage Availability: Travel insurance policies typically offer cruise coverage, but it’s best to confirm that a policy specifically covers cruises before you purchase it. Also, consider availability for coverages that may be important to you, such as CFAR or adventure sports. 
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: You can get insight into the insurance provider and how claims and customer service work by reading customer reviews and ratings.
• Eligibility Criteria: Cruise insurance policies may have eligibility criteria such as limits on age or trip duration and preexisting conditions. For example, some travel insurance policies max out at 90 days.
• Exclusions and Limitations: Read the policy to understand what’s excluded or limited specifically to cruise-related coverage, such as reimbursements for port closures, itinerary changes, or medical incidents on the cruise.
• Policy Cost: Get multiple quotes and compare each cost and coverage value to ensure you get a good value for your cruise insurance policy.
• Purchase Timeline: You’ll usually need to purchase your cruise insurance within a certain period of booking your trip, so be sure you’re buying your policy within that timeframe.
• Reimbursement Structure: Review the cruise insurance policy to confirm how much you can be reimbursed for under qualifying circumstances, such as if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip.

You can buy cruise insurance from the cruise line when you book, or a travel agent may offer cruise insurance plans. You also have the option to purchase cruise trip insurance independently. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes to compare your costs and coverage and get the best deal on cruise insurance.

You should buy cruise insurance when you make your first deposit so you’re immediately covered for trip cancellation. Here are some of the options and coverages if you purchase cruise insurance directly from the cruise line:

Before you purchase cruise insurance from a cruise line, compare your third-party options. You can get quotes from multiple travel insurance companies at once using a travel insurance aggregator such as Squaremouth .

Even a meticulously planned cruise can run into unforeseen disruptions — and cruise insurance can come in handy for the unexpected.

Cruise insurance covers you for sudden illnesses, travel delays, and more, offering financial protection so you’re safeguarded against uncertainties. Whether you get cruise insurance from the cruise line or third–party insurance providers, understand your coverage and how it protects your investment in cruise travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my health insurance cover me on a cruise.

Some health insurance policies offer limited coverage on cruises, but coverage often depends on where you’re cruising and your planned activities. Check with your insurance provider about coverage before you depart on your cruise. Find out if supplemental cruise insurance is available if you want to use your existing health insurance coverage.

Are cruises covered under travel insurance?

Cruises are typically covered under travel insurance , so you don’t necessarily have to buy specialized cruise insurance, such as coverage from the cruise line. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations and interruptions, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more on your cruise trip.

Can you buy cruise insurance after booking?

You can buy cruise insurance after booking. It’s generally best to purchase cruise insurance as soon as possible after making your initial trip deposit — when you have money on the line. The sooner you purchase cruise insurance, the sooner you’re covered for trip cancellations.

Can you buy medical insurance for a cruise?

You can buy medical travel insurance to cover your medical expenses on a cruise, offering coverage such as medical emergencies, illnesses, and injuries.

How do I add travel insurance to my cruise?

You can add travel insurance to your cruise when you book with the cruise line or a travel agent. Alternatively, you can purchase travel insurance directly from travel insurance agencies.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What does travel insurance cover when you cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to find a cruise travel insurance policy

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

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

Third-party insurance companies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Credit cards with travel benefits

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

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

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

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

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

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

Cruise lines

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

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

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

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

Cruise line policies also can be more restrictive.

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

How much does cruise insurance cost?

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

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

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

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

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

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

Should I buy travel insurance for a cruise?

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

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

You might not be covered by regular medical insurance while cruising

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting evacuated for a medical condition is expensive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can't predict the weather

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

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

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

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

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

Costs can mount quickly when things go wrong

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

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

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

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

The government probably won't bail you out

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

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

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

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

You may need more assistance than you think

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

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

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

You want to be careful if you have preexisting conditions

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

June 1, 2020

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

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Travel Insurance for Cruises

When experienced cruisers are about to set sail, they choose Allianz Travel Insurance to protect their cruise. Why? Because when you’re at sea, small mishaps quickly become major problems. Travel insurance can help make things right.

If the ship sails without you because your flight to Miami was delayed, travel delay benefits can help you catch up. If you break your leg and have to cancel your trip, the cruise line won't reimburse you—but travel insurance can. And if you suffer a medical crisis on board, travel insurance can cover your evacuation and emergency medical care.

Here’s the best part: Allianz Travel Insurance is much more than cruise travel insurance. Our plans can protect your flights, hotel stays, cruise excursions, and just about any other kind of travel. Learn about the options and insure your next cruise, so you can leave your worries at the dock.

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

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

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What does cruise travel insurance cover?

Cruise insurance coverage can be customized, but some add-ons can dramatically increase the cost..

Going on a cruise can cost you a pretty penny, so it makes sense to consider cruise insurance to protect your finances if something goes wrong. When you're shopping for a cruise or travel insurance plan , it's important to understand what types of coverage are available and what is covered by different plans. This can help you find the perfect balance between getting the coverage you need and keeping the price of cruise insurance as low as possible.

Here's what you need to know about what cruise insurance covers, how it works and when your travel credit card insurance applies to going on a cruise.

Cruise insurance guide

What is cruise insurance, what does cruise insurance cover, should you buy insurance for a cruise, does credit card travel insurance cover cruising, bottom line.

Cruise insurance is a specific type of travel insurance you can buy to help cover the costs of expenses caused by covered events, such as trip cancellations, delays or medical emergencies. Many general travel insurance policies also cover cruises.

The cost of a cruise insurance plan depends on the types of coverage and coverage limits that are included. For example, some plans offer cancel-for-any-reason coverage (CFAR) , which is an additional cost but allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and be reimbursed a percentage of the cost. If you prefer to have the flexibility of CFAR coverage, AIG's  Travel Guard Preferred plan is CNBC Select's best cruise insurance plan for CFAR coverage. This option provides coverage up to 48 hours before your originally scheduled departure.

Travel Guard® Travel Insurance

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

Policy highlights

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

24/7 assistance available

You can usually purchase cruise insurance directly from the cruise line when you book your trip. Alternatively, you can purchase it separately from a third party. In any case, it's always important to shop around to compare not only prices but also what's covered.

Cruise insurance plans offer a range of coverage options, including:

• Trip interruptions or cancellations
• Trip delays
• Delayed or lost baggage
• Travel to and from the cruise
• Pre-existing conditions
• Medical evacuation
• Emergency medical care
• Missed connections
• Job loss cancellation

There are stipulations, coverage limits and deductibles that can apply. For example, if a pre-existing conditions waiver is offered, you'll typically need to purchase it shortly after booking your cruise and paying for the initial deposit(usually within 2-3 weeks).

Insurance plans have exceptions where the coverage won't apply. If you're injured while intoxicated, don't expect your travel insurance to cover your medical expenses or missed travel. Certain high-risk activities may also be specifically excluded from a cruise insurance plan, such as scuba diving or jet skiing. If you plan on participating in an excursion that isn't normally covered, you'll want to take a look at the World Nomads Explorer Plan , which has a list of hundreds of sports and adventure activities that are covered by the plan.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers travel insurance for all sorts of travelers, from families to solo adventure travelers. Policies are underwritten by Nationwide and offer strong coverage of emergency accident and illness situations, as well as emergency evacuation scenarios.

Cruise insurance normally costs 3% to 8% of the cost of the cruise, but can be higher if you opt for expensive add-ons, such as CFAR coverage. It's important to shop around to ensure you're getting the coverage you need, the right coverage limits for your trip and the best price. Before you purchase a separate cruise insurance plan, make sure your trip isn't already covered by your credit card or any other travel insurance you may have.

Credit card travel insurance usually covers cruise trips and the travel you book to and from your port of call. For your credit card coverage to apply, you'll need to pay for the trip with an eligible card.

Before you whip out your card and use it to book your trip, double-check that it includes travel insurance and be aware that the level of coverage you get with a credit card won't be as robust as what you can get with a dedicated travel or cruise insurance plan.

That said, one of the best cards for cruise bookings is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . It offers insurance for trip delays, trip cancellation/interruptions, baggage delays, lost baggage, rental cars, emergency medical and dental, emergency evacuation and travel accidents. It also earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which are a valuable type of travel reward you can use to book cruises, flights and rental cars.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

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

Welcome bonus

Earn 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℠.

Regular APR

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Balance transfer fee

5%, minimum $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

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

Cruise insurance can be a relatively inexpensive investment to protect a costly vacation. Depending on the plan, it covers delays, cancellations, emergency medical and more while you're on a cruise or traveling to and from your cruise. Some cruise insurance plans even offer cancel-for-any-reason coverage, which provides the ultimate flexibility when your plans change. With so many options available, it's important to understand what is and isn't covered by each specific cruise insurance policy.

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

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• Cruise Insurance

Find the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

Compare cruise insurance plans from top providers that offer cancellation, medical, and delay coverage.

Compare Cruise Insurance Quotes

• Protection Before the Cruise
• Protection While at Sea
• Cruise Information FAQs
• Recent Articles

What to Look for in a Cruise Travel Insurance Policy

Whether you’re on the cruise ship, the beach, or enroute to your port of call, a good travel insurance policy will offer coverage and peace of mind for the entirety of your cruise vacation.

Coverage Before Your Cruise

Travel insurance can offer peace of mind heading into a cruise vacation, and protect against unforeseen events that may prevent you from reaching your port of call. This may include cancellations, trip delays, and missed connections that occur as you reach your ship.

• Cancellation Coverage: Offers reimbursement if you cancel your cruise for a covered reason, such as an unforeseen illness, injury, or death of a family member.
• Hurricane & Extreme Weather Protection: Reimburses a traveler in the event they must cancel or interrupt their trip due to inclement weather or natural disasters.
• Trip Delay Benefits: Protects against financial loss if you encounter significant delays or miss a connecting flight enroute to your port of call.
• Baggage Delay: Can reimburse you for toiletry, clothes, and other essential items if your baggage is delayed during transit.

Travel Protection At Sea

While we all hope for smooth sailing when taking a cruise, it’s not always the case. The main reason cruisers purchase travel medical insurance coverage is to protect against unforeseen injuries, illnesses, and other events that may occur during a trip.

Make sure the plan you choose includes strong coverage for the benefits below:

• Medical Coverage: Since most health insurance providers don’t offer coverage outside the USA, most travel insurance plans include Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation benefits to cover medical emergencies while traveling.
• Interruption Insurance: If you are forced to end your trip early for a covered reason, you may be reimbursed your unused trip costs.
• Baggage Loss Protection: Provides reimbursement for items that were lost, stolen, or damaged at any point during your cruise.

Due to an increase in demand for travel protection while at sea, many travel insurance providers offer plans specifically built for cruisers.

Squaremouth ranks the five best travel insurance companies for cruisers based on policies sold:

• Seven Corners
• Detour Insurance
• Generali Global Assistance

Click here for a full breakdown of the top cruise insurance providers.

If you already have a policy and have any questions for your travel insurance provider or would like to file a claim, please contact your provider directly. Click here to find your provider's contact information .

We're here to help!

Have questions about travel insurance coverage? Call us! 1-800-240-0369 Our Customer Service Team is available everyday from 8AM to 10PM ET.

Best Cruise Insurance Benefits

Cruise insurance tips and information.

Squaremouth shares their tips and recommendations based on the most frequently asked questions from passengers.

How Much Does Cruise Insurance Cost?

Cruisers can expect to pay between 5-10% of their insured trip costs on a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Costs and coverage limits can vary significantly from one policy to the next, so it's best to compare plans before making a purchase decision.

The cost of cruise travel insurance varies based on a variety of factors:

• Total Trip Cost: The sum of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses that you plan to insure.
• Length of Your Trip: The amount of days you will be traveling, starting from the day you leave home for your trip.
• Traveler Age: In general, older travelers experience higher travel insurance premiums.
• Coverage Amounts: Policies with higher coverage limits may result in more expensive premiums.

Get a quote today to see pricing for your specific cruise.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Cruise insurance provides financial protection for travelers if their travel plans are impacted before or during their cruise. Most comprehensive travel insurance policies provide coverage for common travel disruptions, including cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and personal items.

Is Cruise Travel Insurance Worth It?

For many cruisers, travel insurance is worth it for the peace of mind alone. If things don't go according to plan, travel insurance can protect you from serious financial loss. In addition to well-rounded benefits, most cruise insurance plans also include 24 Hour Travel Assistance Services to support you before and during your cruise.

Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance For My Cruise?

While medical insurance is rarely a requirement for cruises, it is almost always recommended.

Most U.S. health insurance plans won't cover medical emergencies that occur outside of the country. For cruisers especially, this can result in extremely high out of pocket expenses if an unforeseen injury or illness occurs if they don’t have a travel medical insurance policy.

For the best coverage, Squaremouth recommends comprehensive travel insurance plans that include at least $100,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and at least $250,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage. Those with pre-existing medical conditions should also consider plans that offer Pre-Existing Condition waivers .

When Should I Buy Insurance For My Cruise?

While you can buy travel insurance up until the day before you leave for their cruise, Squaremouth recommends buying a policy directly after making your initial first trip deposit. For most cruisers, their first trip payment will likely be their cruise reservation, flights, or hotel accommodations.

This approach offers the most coverage, and allows you to purchase time-sensitive benefits and add-ons like Cancel For Any Reason coverage (CFAR) coverage and Pre-Existing Condition waivers. Purchasing cruise travel insurance early does not necessarily impact your premium.

How Do I Find the Best Travel Insurance Plan?

Travelers can find cruise insurance from a wide-range of sources, including credit cards , cruise lines, travel agents, and third party travel insurance providers. To find the best travel insurance protection for your trip, we recommend taking the time to compare multiple cruise insurance plans that meet your budget and travel needs. Start by using a travel insurance comparison site like Squaremouth.

Can I Cancel My Cruise at the Last Minute?

Yes, many comprehensive travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations under specified circumstances, such as sudden illness, injury, or death of the insured or a family member, natural disasters, or unexpected work obligations. Most policies that include the Trip Cancellation benefit offer 100% reimbursement for all prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Excursions?

From scuba diving in the Caribbean sea to riding ATVs through the mainland, excursions offer a chance to experience destinations included in your itinerary. Travel insurance can cover these expenses through the Trip Cancellation, CFAR, or Trip Interruption benefits should you need to cancel your plans. If you plan on partaking in more extreme excursions, you will need to find a policy that explicitly includes Sports & Activities coverage.

Cruise  News Articles

January 12, 2024 — With wave season upon us, cruise lines brace themselves for a potentially record-breaking year on the high seas.  This maritime momentum has been building over the past three years. New data from Squaremouth, the nation’s leading travel insurance marketplace, reveals that the cruise industry is poised to make...

October 26, 2022 — While most travel sectors have made a strong post-pandemic recovery, cruise lines have been slower to rebound. Cruise lines have lessened restrictions in recent weeks, however many still require a negative COVID-19 test prior to embarkation. Despite the continued requirements, travel insurtech Squaremouth.com reports cruisers are now more...

July 28, 2021 — Countries and cruise lines are turning to travel insurance as a resource to regain tourism. Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, 18 countries have begun requiring visitors travel with insurance for Covid-19. Recently, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney cruise lines announced similar requirements of non-vaccinated travelers. Travel...

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Table of Contents

What is cruise travel insurance?

What does cruise travel insurance cover typically, how much is travel insurance for a cruise, do i need it if i have other travel protections, is cruise travel insurance worth it.

Cruise travel insurance covers the cruise itself, not related travel.

It's usually purchased through the cruise operator, typically before booking.

Check to make sure your credit card doesn't offer similar insurance before buying cruise insurance.

Cruising is one of America's favorite travel experiences. According to a 2021 report from Cruise Lines International Association, an industry trade association, 82% of cruisers will cruise again. As well, 62% of non-cruisers are open to the idea.

And why not? Cruises often give travelers the chance to experience multiple destinations plus enjoy onboard entertainment, activities and dining for a set, all-inclusive price . Cruises simplify budgeting in a year when travel prices have been hard hit by inflation .

But what happens if something goes wrong with your ship, or you can’t make it onboard because of health concerns? Cruise travel insurance might be the answer. It protects your payment and covers you against illness or injury.

Before you pay for a cruise travel insurance policy, here's a look at what it is, how it works and if it's worth it.

Cruise travel insurance is add-on insurance coverage that — just like travel insurance — will reimburse you for delays, interruptions, medical situations or other problems during the cruise.

Depending on which cruise line you're traveling with, you might be able to buy a travel insurance policy when booking your trip (through the cruise line directly) or at a later date (either through the cruise line or separately from a third party).

Protecting travel costs can be a smart money move. A September 2022 survey of 737 past cruisers by InsureMyTrip found that the average trip cost for an insured cruise vacation so far this year is $6,367, an increase of nearly 15% from before the pandemic.

Can you buy travel insurance after booking a cruise? It depends. Some cruise lines require the purchase of a travel insurance policy before the final payment date when charges become nonrefundable. Others require the purchase of coverage a certain number of days before departure. Read the fine print to find out the deadline to purchase and the specifics of its coverage.

Circumstances covered by cruise travel insurance vary by policy and by issuer. Many cruise lines partner with an insurance company to underwrite its policy benefits.

Some common benefits available as part of travel insurance from a cruise line include:

Trip cancellation and interruption . If you cancel your trip or unexpectedly cut it short for an eligible reason, such as severe weather or illness, you'll get back some or all of the upfront costs, depending on the policy.

Cancel For Any Reason . This coverage tends to be more flexible, forgiving and expensive at time of purchase. Policyholders can cancel for any reason not listed in the policy and still receive a portion of their trip cost back, either as cash or as a future cruise credit (assuming they meet other eligibility requirements).

Trip delay . Cruise delay insurance protection protects expenses if your trip is delayed beyond a set number of hours.

Baggage protection . This insures your luggage if it is lost, stolen, damaged or delayed, and gives money to buy necessary items until bags are recovered.

Medical coverage . If you get sick or injured during the trip, the policy covers treatment and related expenses up to a limit.

Emergency evacuation . When emergency evacuation is necessary, the policy covers the transport cost up to a limit.

COVID coverage . If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to COVID, the policy covers the unused prepaid expenses, medical treatment and emergency evacuation, up to policy limits.

When comparing policies, choose a policy that includes all of the benefits, protections and coverage limits that are important to you. While you may be tempted to choose the lowest-priced option, that policy may not have the coverage you need.

We examined cruise insurance prices for a seven-day trip in February 2023 from the U.S. to Mexico. The example traveler was 35 years old, from Georgia, and planned to spend $2,500 on the trip, including airfare.

The average price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $124. These policies didn't include optional add-ons, such as Cancel for Any Reason coverage or coverage for pre-existing medical conditions .

Separately, we looked at five different cruise insurance add-ons for a similar trip. With this option, the average cost of basic coverage was cheaper than a standalone policy at $111.20. Keep in mind that cruise insurance policies offered by cruise lines typically cover the cruise portion of the trip only, but do include some Cancel For Any Reason coverage.

If you already have a standalone travel insurance policy or a credit card with travel protections, you may wonder if you need to purchase a cruise travel insurance policy.

Credit card travel insurance

Many travel credit cards include travel protections such as trip cancellation, interruption, delayed or lost luggage reimbursement, and emergency evacuation benefits. Before buying a cruise travel policy, compare the coverage benefits and limits to determine if you already have coverage with a credit card.

One benefit that cruise travel insurance policies offer that credit cards don't is the ability to cancel for any reason. Although you may not get back 100% of the cruise price, these policies allow you to cancel for any reason and get a portion of the price back as a credit toward a future trip. If the policy is priced low enough, it may be worth buying the insurance offered through your cruise line for that benefit alone.

Travel insurance policy

Standalone travel insurance policies can be purchased to cover one person or a family for a specific trip or multiple trips within a period of time. These policies are available at a variety of price points to meet a traveler's budget. When comparing policy options, you can balance price versus coverage options.

If you're traveling multiple times within a short period of time, it may be more economical to buy a more comprehensive travel insurance policy instead of separate policies for each trip.

Cruise travel insurance can be worth it to address your concerns about traveling and protect your investments. These policies offer numerous protections that will cover your expenses in case your trip is canceled, interrupted or delayed, or if you get sick during the trip.

Before buying this coverage, compare your options against your credit card benefits. You might also shop for general travel insurance policies to see if you can get a better deal than what’s offered through your cruise line.

If you’re not covered by your credit card, cruise travel insurance can be worth the added cost. It will give you peace of mind before setting sail, when signing up for that adventurous land excursion and when clicking "Book" for an expensive vacation in the COVID travel landscape.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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Do You Need Cruise Travel Insurance? And Which to Choose

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

When planning your dream cruise, one of the decisions you’ll face is whether or not to purchase travel insurance. You might not think cruise travel insurance is necessary, but it is there for you when the unexpected happens.

Cruise travel insurance policies protect you against unforeseen events . Coverage can include trip cancellations, missed flights, lost luggage, medical emergencies, or travel delays. Insurance provides a safeguard and peace of mind during your voyage.

Weighing the potential risks and benefits will help determine the level of coverage that best suits your needs.

Table of Contents

Do You Need Cruise Travel Insurance?

I always recommend purchasing cruise travel insurance when you go on a cruise vacation. I hope you won’t need it, but cruise travel insurance is a safety net covering unforeseen events that could derail your vacation plans.

You wouldn’t want a flight delay, illness, or baggage loss to spoil your adventure at sea.

Typical travel insurance policies don’t cover cruise-specific hiccups. That’s why you need cruise-specific travel insurance when you go on a cruise ship.

Cruise travel insurance plans cover things like a missed port of call or onboard medical emergencies .

Travel insurance isn’t a requirement, but it provides peace of mind, letting you enjoy the high seas knowing you’re protected against a host of potential travel disruptions.

What Does Cruise Insurance Cover?

It’s essential to know your insurance coverage when planning a cruise vacation. Cruise insurance covers several things that you won’t need on other holidays.

Cruise insurance policy coverage varies. Below is a breakdown of items cruise insurance covers:

• Medical Coverage : Should you require medical attention while on the voyage, your policy generally offers emergency medical coverage for ailments and injuries. Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions may require additional clauses to secure coverage.
• Trip Cancellation : If unforeseen circumstances, like illness or severe weather, force you to cancel your trip before departure, this aspect of your policy can reimburse prepaid, non-refundable expenses.
• Trip Interruption : If you need to cut your cruise short due to emergencies at home or unexpected travel bans, trip interruption coverage helps you recover lost trip costs and extra expenses for last-minute travel arrangements.
• Luggage and Baggage Protection : Loss or damage to your luggage is frustrating and costly. Your policy should include baggage protection to cover the cost of lost belongings during your journey.
• Emergency Evacuation : In the event of a serious incident requiring your evacuation from the ship, your insurance can cover the associated costs. This also encompasses medical evacuation coverage if specified.
• Missing the Ship : If you miss the all-aboard time, the cruise ship will leave without you . Cruise travel insurance covers out-of-pocket costs for catching up to the ship at the next port.

Most cruise travel insurance plans exclude extreme sports like parasailing and bungee jumping. You may need extra coverage if you want protection for these activities.

Cruise ship sports like rock climbing and zip lining should be covered under your insurance plan. But it’s best to check your coverage before sailing .

Remember, policy details and coverage limits vary. It’s essential to review the specifics of your plan carefully. This ensures you fully understand the protections you have in place for a stress-free cruising experience.

Choosing the Best Cruise Insurance

You have several options for purchasing cruise travel insurance. You can buy cruise insurance plans through the cruise line, your travel agent, directly from insurance providers, or through insurance aggregators like InsureMyTrip or TravelInsurance.

Third-Party Travel Insurance Companies

Third-party companies like AIG Travel, Allianz Travel Insurance, and American Express Travel Insurance offer comprehensive coverage.

You can browse and compare each company’s travel insurance or use a travel aggregator like InsureMyTrip or TravelInsurance .

Travel aggregators make it easy to compare the rates and coverages from several insurance providers and choose the plan that suits you. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to buying travel insurance. Browse your options and find the best plan that suits your needs.

You can also ask your travel agent for help selecting an insurance provider.

Buying Travel Insurance From the Cruise Line

The insurance policies offered by cruise lines are convenient because you can handle your booking and insurance through the same channel.

However, we don’t recommend purchasing travel insurance through your cruise line .

Cruise line travel insurance policies are more affordable than third-party providers. However, they don’t offer the same coverage . We recommend choosing a third-party travel insurance plan that provides comprehensive coverage, so you have peace of mind during your cruise vacation.

Advantages:

• Convenience: Booking insurance through your cruise company can save time and simplify your planning process.
• Tailored Coverage: The policies are often tailored to the specific needs of cruise travelers, covering incidents directly related to cruise experiences.
• Cost: Travel insurance offered by cruise lines is almost always more affordable than third-party insurance providers.
• Coverage: While convenient, cruise line travel insurance policies aren’t as comprehensive as third-party offerings.
• Reimbursement : Some cruise lines provide future cruise credits instead of an outright refund.
• Default Risk : You may not have any coverage if the cruise line declares a financial default. Most third-party travel insurance companies cover you if the company you travel with defaults.

Be sure to read the fine print and understand the limitations and exclusions of the travel insurance policy offered by your cruise line. Seek advice from an independent travel insurance agent for a personalized approach to your trip’s protection.

Credit Card Travel Benefits

Most premium credit cards offer valuable travel benefits . In some cases, the protections provided by your credit card are the same or close to a standard travel insurance plan .

Some credit cards provide travel protection benefits when you purchase a vacation using your card. Your credit card can reimburse you for lost or damaged baggage, flight cancellations, and emergency flights home for a family medical emergency.

However, most credit cards require that you pay most or all of the vacation using the card .

Otherwise, you won’t have coverage.

Additionally, while most credit card travel benefits include flights, they don’t always cover cruise expenses.

Even if you have travel coverage through your credit card, you may still need cruise coverage from a third-party travel insurance company.

How Much Does Cruise Travel Insurance Cost?

The price of cruise travel insurance depends on the amount of coverage, your destination, age, pre-existing medical conditions, and the duration of your vacation. A travel insurance policy is usually between 4%-8% of the total trip costs , including flights, hotel, and cruise fare.

It’s a wide range, for sure. But it all depends on the coverages you choose.

Remember, cheaper isn’t always better.

Make sure you select a plan that fits your budget and your needs . A cheap plan is great, but you won’t be happy if it doesn’t provide coverage when needed.

Travel insurance plans have a base price, but you can “add on” additional coverages to meet your needs.

Most people can save money by not purchasing the “cancel for any reason” add-on. Most insurance plans cover cancellations because of weather and medical expenses. The add-on isn’t worth it unless you really need the flexibility.

You can purchase travel insurance online in just a few minutes. But don’t leave it to the last minute. Travel insurance is an essential purchase in our eyes and one you don’t want to leave home without.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It on a Cruise?

Travel insurance is worth purchasing when on a cruise. You may never need to use your insurance, but it will save you a lot of money if you require coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

I often hear people saying that cruise insurance is an unnecessary cost.

I hope you never need to use your insurance, but you’ll be glad you bought insurance if something goes wrong.

Don’t try to save money by skipping insurance.

Travel insurance provides a safety net for minor inconveniences like lost luggage and serious events like medical emergencies.

Medical care on a cruise ship is highly costly.

The expenses can skyrocket if you require air evacuation to a hospital on land. Travel insurance can cover these medical costs, offering peace of mind that you won’t face financial distress on top of health concerns.

Additionally, cruises can sometimes face unexpected disruptions, such as severe weather conditions or technical issues that lead to delays, missed port calls, or even the need to return to the home port ahead of schedule. Travel insurance compensates for these disruptions, ensuring that your vacation doesn’t become a financial burden.

Even if the cruise line provides a partial or full refund for a canceled cruise, you still need to pay out-of-pocket for flights, hotels, and non-refundable shore excursions.

Travel insurance is a small purchase that saves you from major financial distress when the worst happens.

It’s also worth noting that the current global landscape, with its unpredictabilities around health concerns and travel restrictions, has made travel insurance even more critical. Policies now often include coverage for COVID-19-related cancellations or medical treatment, addressing the new layer of uncertainty that travelers face.

While the hope is that your cruise is smooth sailing from start to finish, travel insurance protects against the unexpected. It ensures that should the unexpected occur, you’re not left out of pocket and can focus on what matters most – your health and enjoying your vacation. Travel insurance is worth it for a cruise because of the peace of mind and financial protection it offers.

Marcello De Lio

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We want this to be the best vacation of your life. And, to make sure you have the most carefree vacation possible, we offer CruiseCare®. CruiseCare® is an optional travel protection add-on to your cruise booking that’s available through Celebrity for US residents in all states except New York 1 . For New York residents who wish to purchase the product, please visit  https://travelcruisecare.com.

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Why Travel Protection?

Cancellation penalty waiver program   – non-insurance features provided by celebrity cruises.

Allows you to cancel and waives the normally non-refundable cancellation charges if you need to cancel for specified reasons. In addition, CruiseCare® Cancel For Any Reason Cruise Vacation Enhancement makes sure that in the event you choose to cancel for a reason not eligible under the plan, at any time up until departure, Celebrity will provide you with a cruise credit equal to 90% of the non-refundable value of your cruise vacation prepaid to Celebrity, for your use towards a future cruise (excluding Flights by Celebrity).

Trip Interruption & Trip Delay 2

Provides coverage if you can’t start or finish your cruise vacation because you’re sick or hurt, there’s a death in the family, or for another covered reason. For Trip Delays, the plan reimburses up to $2,000 for covered out-of-pocket expenses to catch up to your cruise. For trip interruption the plan covers up to 150% of your total trip cost.

Baggage and Bag Delay Protection 2

If your baggage or personal property is lost, stolen, or damaged, the plan covers up to $1,500. If your bags are delayed or misdirected for more than 24 hours, the plan reimburses up to $2,000 for the purchase of necessary personal items due to a covered delay. 

Medical Expense, Evacuation & Repatriation Benefits 2

Should you become injured or sick during your vacation, the plan reimburses for covered medical expenses for up to one year from the date of your accident or illness. It is important to evaluate your current insurance to ensure that you have adequate medical coverage while you are traveling. Depending on your plan, Medicare and other health insurance providers may not cover expenses incurred outside of the US. Coverage is up to $25,000 for Accident or Sickness Medical Expenses, up to $50,000 for Emergency Evacuation and up to $25,000 for Repatriation.

24/7 Emergency Assistance 3 – emergency travel assistance provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM

Provides 24-hour travel assistance, medical assistance and emergency services, such as: pre-trip health, safety, and weather information, assistance with travel changes, lost luggage assistance, emergency cash transfer assistance, medical consultation, emergency legal, medical and dental assistance and more.

Need to file a claim?

Claims may be filed through Aon Affinity for guests who purchased Celebrity’s CruiseCare® plan. 1  A claim may be filed online at  www.aontravelclaim.com . To view terms, conditions and exclusions, visit:  https://www.archinsurancesolutions.com/coverage/Celebrity .

1 This Celebrity CruiseCare® plan is an optional travel protection add-on to your cruise booking and is available through Celebrity for residents in all states except New York. New York state residents who are interested in travel protection may contact Aon Affinity by visiting https://travelcruisecare.com or calling Aon Affinity at 1-800 797-4516. If added, CruiseCare® is not effective until the plan cost has been paid. Plan cost is not automatically included as part of your initial cruise deposit.

2  Travel Insurance benefits are administered by Aon Affinity and underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, with administrative offices in Jersey City, NJ (NAIC #11150) under Policy Form series LPT 2013 and applicable amendatory endorsements. This is a brief overview of the coverages. Subject to terms, conditions, and exclusions. This is a general overview of travel insurance benefits available. Coverages may vary in certain states and not all benefits are available in all jurisdictions. Please refer to your certificate of benefits or policy of insurance for detailed terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

This program was designed and is administered by Aon Affinity. Aon Affinity is the brand name for the brokerage and program administration operations of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. (TX 13695); (AR 100106022); In CA & MN, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency Inc. (CA 0795465); in OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Services Inc.; in CA, Aon Affinity Insurance Services Inc. (CA 0G94493), Aon Direct Insurance Administrations and Berkely Insurance Agency and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency.

3  Worldwide Emergency Assistance are emergency travel assistance provided by CareFree Travel Assistance TM . CEL_12162022

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Enjoy Even More Peace of Mind with Our New & Improved Princess Vacation Protection

Life can be unpredictable but you can rely on princess vacation protection.

One of the most common questions we hear from our guests is, ‘Should I buy travel protection?’ If you want to spend more time relaxing and less time worrying about the unexpected, the answer is ‘yes’. That’s why we offer Princess Vacation Protection (PVP), which provides a cancellation fee waiver1 plus travel insurance benefits2 and 24-hour worldwide CareFree™ Travel Assistance 3 . Help protect in the event of unforeseen illness, including COVID-19, trip delays, baggage issues and more. It’s a convenient way to help ease your worries before setting sail.

Your benefits just got better – and you can still enjoy low prices!

New improvements:.

• Increased benefits up to 150% of vacation cost for Trip Interruptions.
• Increased Emergency Evacuation benefits up to $50,000 for the standard plan and $75,000 for the platinum plan.*

Benefits at a Glance

Cancel for any reason 1.

Cancellation Fee Waiver 1  (Non-insurance features provided by Princess Cruises) Life is unpredictable… but you can rely on Princess Vacation Protection. If you need to cancel for specified reasons outlined in the Cancellation Fee Waiver section of the plan, you’ll receive a refund of your cancellation fees. If you need to cancel for any reason not listed in the plan, under the “Any Reason” Cancellation Enhancement feature, you’ll receive 75% of the cancellation fee amount in the form of future cruise credits under our Standard plan and 100% under the Platinum plan.

Trip Interruptions

If you need to interrupt your trip due to a covered reason such as an illness or injury, you are eligible for reimbursement of prepaid cruise/land arrangements made through Princess and/or the cost of one-way airfare to get you home.

Medical Evacuation

Princess Vacation Protection also provides coverage in case your medical condition requires emergency evacuation to an appropriate medical facility.

Medical Expenses

Most medical expenses are covered in case you become sick or injured during your trip.

Trip Delays

If you are delayed starting your trip or returning home, you may be reimbursed for expenses that were not arranged through Princess – including meals, hotel, and transportation.

Personal Belongings

Your baggage is also covered in the event it is damaged, lost, stolen, or delayed to your destination.

24/7 Support

Need help? You will have access to 24/7 worldwide assistance for travel, medical, and emergency services.

The plan terms, conditions and exclusions are available online:

Captain’s Circle Loyalty Benefit

Available in both a Standard and Platinum plan, choose the plan you want based on the coverage and plan price that works best for you. Captain’s Circle members who have achieved Ruby, Platinum or Elite status who elect to purchase Standard PVP automatically receive a complimentary upgrade to PVP Platinum; we’ll pay the difference in plan cost on your behalf.

3 Ways to Purchase Princess Vacation Protection

Princess Vacation Protection can be purchased at the time of booking or up until final payment. You are considered enrolled as soon as the plan cost has been paid.

• When you  Book your Cruise  on Princess.com
• Call 1-800-Princess or contact your Travel Advisor
• Already Booked Guests can purchase in  Cruise Personalizer

Product Details

Cancellation Fee Waiver 1 (Non-insurance features provided by Princess Cruises)

Life is unpredictable… but you can rely on Princess Vacation Protection. If you need to cancel for specified reasons outlined in the Cancellation Fee Waiver section of the plan you’ll receive a refund of your cancellation fees. If you need to cancel for any reason not listed in the plan, under the “Any Reason” Cancellation Enhancement feature, you’ll receive 75% of the cancellation fee amount in the form of future cruise credits under our Standard plan and 100% under the Platinum plan.

Travel Insurance Benefits 2 (Underwritten by Nationwide®)

Sail through your vacation with less to worry about.

Trip Interruption:  Up to 150% total trip cost reimbursement for missed, prepaid cruise arrangements and/or the cost of one-way airfare if you must start your vacation late or need to come home early due to illness, injury and more.

Trip Delay:  Up to $500 for any pre-cruise trip delay expenses and/or post-cruise trip delay expenses up to $1,500 (not to exceed $1,500 for both pre- and post-cruise delays) for meals, hotel and transportation.

Baggage Delay:  Up to $500 if your luggage is delayed during travel.

Baggage/Personal Effects:  Up to $1,500 ($3,000 with the Platinum plan) if your stuff is lost, stolen or damaged.

Accidental Medical Expense:  Up to $10,000 ($20,000 with the Platinum plan) if you become injured while traveling.

Sickness Medical Expense:  Up to $10,000 ($20,000 with the Platinum plan) if you become sick while traveling.

Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation: Up to $50,000 ($75,000 with the Platinum Plan) in the event your medical condition requires emergency medical transportation to an appropriate medical facility or in the event of your death, provides coverage to transport your mortal remains.

24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services 3 (Non-insurance services provided by LiveTravel)

Need help while you travel?  Assistance is there for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in the world.

Princess Vacation Protection can be purchased while booking your next cruise vacation on princess.com, by contacting your travel agent, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS, or on Cruise Personalizer. It is available for purchase up until final payment for your trip on all Princess Cruises, Princess Cruisetours, Princess Alaska Land Tours and Princess Canadian Rockies Land Tours, and is available at two levels: Standard or Platinum. Princess Vacation Protection is not in effect until the plan cost has been paid to Princess in addition to any required cruise deposits or payments.

1  Non-insurance feature provided by Princess. WA residents only, Trip Cancellation benefits are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, Ohio (NAIC #23787).

2  Travel Insurance Benefits are underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Columbus, Ohio (NAIC #23787).

3  Travel Assistance services are non-insurance services provided by LiveTravel International.

This plan provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

Princess Vacation Protection – Standard  To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance providing the terms, conditions and exclusions of the certificate, visit  PVP Standard .

Princess Vacation Protection – Platinum  To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance providing the terms, conditions and exclusions of the certificate, visit  PVP Platinum .

Note that Princess Vacation Protection is not available to residents of the state of New York, British Columbia, Quebec, Puerto Rico, or Mexico.

Need to file a claim?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 and need to cancel the day before my cruise? A:  Like with any illness diagnosed and treated by a medical professional, if you test positive for COVID-19 after purchasing the plan, you will be eligible to receive a refund to your original form of payment. If you do not have an official medical diagnosis, but feel unwell, you will receive a Future Cruise Credit.

Q:  What if my spouse gets COVID-19 right before the cruise and we can no longer sail? A:  You will be eligible to file a claim for a cash refund if you, your traveling companion or a member of your immediate family is diagnosed and treated for COVID-19, which causes you to cancel your cruise.

Q:  What if my mother, who isn’t sailing with us, gets COVID-19, and we may have been exposed? A:  Princess Vacation Protection has you covered! Even if they are not traveling with you, if someone in your immediate family is diagnosed and treated for an illness, you may request a refund to the original form of payment. If they are ill but are not diagnosed or treated, you may call us and receive a Future Cruise Credit for the cruise fare.

Q:  What if I find out I was exposed to someone either on my way to my cruise or during the cruise, and I end up being isolated in my cabin for part or all of the voyage? A:  PVP provides reimbursement for the days you are confined to your cabin if the confinement is ordered by a medical professional.

Q:  Does PVP cover my medical expenses if I get COVID-19 during my cruise? A:  Yes, PVP provides reimbursement for eligible medical expenses for any illness, including COVID-19.

Q:  What if I want to cancel my PVP coverage? How does that work? A:  PVP is refundable until final payment is due. For new bookings made within final payment, the PVP plan cost is only refundable within 10 days of purchase provided the person hasn't departed on the trip nor filed a claim.

Q:  Am I protected by my Princess Vacation Protection plan if my mother, who is not traveling with me, develops pneumonia and I have to cancel my trip to care for her? A:  Yes! Princess will refund the cancellation fees (up to the full value of the cruise vacation) if you have to cancel your trip because of a specified reason such as illness, injury or death of yourself, a traveling companion or either of your immediate family members.

Q:  If I have a heart condition and am on continuing medication, am I protected if my heart condition flares up during my vacation? A:  Yes! Princess Vacation Protection provides reimbursement for conditions that are stable during the 60-days prior to purchase, so if you have had no changes in your health (even if you are on continuous unchanged medication), you would be protected.

Q:  What if my condition did change prior to purchasing Princess Vacation Protection? A:  Rest assured, emergency evacuation benefits are still provided in the event of a medical emergency. Also, if you cancel your cruise vacation and do not qualify for cash reimbursement due to an unstable medical condition prior to purchase, you will have the benefit of cancel-for-any-reason protection from Princess.

Q:  If my pet becomes ill and I have to cancel my trip as a result, will Princess Vacation Protection reimburse me? A:  Although you would not qualify for cash reimbursement, as an added feature for purchasing Princess Vacation Protection, Princess will provide a credit toward a future cruise equal to 75% of the cancellation fees imposed (100% if Platinum Vacation Protection is purchased) if you choose to cancel for an ineligible reason. This benefit is provided by Princess Cruises and/or Princess Tours.

• Carnival Vacation Protection

Carnival Vacation Protection 1

Sign up today and get:

TRIP CANCELLATION

In life, you never really know what may happen… but you can rely on the Vacation Protection trip cancellation. If you need to cancel for some of the most common reasons (severe weather, illness, etc.) you'll get 100% of the cost of your trip back, in cash. If you need to cancel for any reason not listed in the plan — any reason at all — you'll get 75% back in a Future Cruise Credit Certificate.

TRAVEL INSURANCE 2

• Trip Interruption: Up to total Trip cost reimbursement if you must start your vacation late or need to come home early due to illness, injury and more.
• Baggage: Up to $1,500 if your stuff is lost, stolen or damaged, and up to $500 reimbursement if you have to buy necessary items while your bags are delayed 24+ hours
• Medical: Up to $10,000 if you get sick or injured on your vacation
• Emergency Evacuation: Up to $30,000 for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation (services provided by LiveTravel)

24/7 WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ASSISTANCE

Need help while you travel? Assistance is there for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week… anywhere in the world.

Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

B uying travel insurance coverage can protect you from unexpected expenses incurred during a trip. These include needing to cancel or interrupt your travel plans, lost luggage, emergency medical expenses and travel delays.

Nationwide travel insurance is among our top picks for the best travel insurance companies . It offers multi-trip plans, dedicated cruise travel coverage, pre-existing condition waivers and round-the-clock travel assistance.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review to learn about the pros and cons of doing business with this well-known travel insurer and decide if it’s the best option for you.

Best for cruise travel insurance

Nationwide is the best company we’ve found for cruise insurance. It offers dedicated cruise travel insurance plans covering unforeseen scenarios you may encounter during a cruise vacation, including itinerary changes and mechanical breakdowns.

Nationwide travel insurance pros and cons

Pre-existing conditions waiver available with most plans

24-hour travel assistance available

Offers cruise-specific plans

Cancel for any reason coverage is only available with premium plans

Offers few add-ons compared to other insurers

Travel insurance covers medical emergencies and other potentially expensive issues while you’re abroad. While it isn’t required for most destinations, like the best travel credit cards , it can provide peace of mind for a fraction of your total trip cost.

Here’s what you can expect from your Nationwide Travel Insurance plan.

Pros explained

Pre-existing conditions are a common travel insurance exclusion. If you developed symptoms of, were treated for or were diagnosed with a condition before purchasing coverage and then suffered a relapse during your trip, travel insurance will cover treatment for it only if you qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver upon purchasing the plan.

According to travel insurance broker Squaremouth, Nationwide offers pre-existing condition waivers on several of its plans. Travelers who purchase the Essential or Primer plans within 20 days of the initial trip deposit may qualify for the waiver, as are those who purchase the Choice Cruise or Luxury Cruise plans within 14 days of the initial deposit.

Note, however, that you must meet certain conditions for the waiver to be valid (including being medically approved to travel). And this benefit is not available on the Universal Cruise Plan.

Nationwide’s travel insurance plans offer comprehensive 24-hour emergency services, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, transportation post-stabilization and repatriation of mortal remains.

The company also provides travel support services, including medical monitoring, interpretation services and assistance with making emergency travel arrangements or replacing lost or stolen items such as medication or medical devices.

Compared to other travel insurance companies, Nationwide provides more expansive and customizable cruise insurance coverage. The company offers three plans tailored specifically for cruises: Choice, Universal and Luxury. Each covers cruise-specific travel-related setbacks such as medical evacuations, itinerary changes and missed connections.

Cruise-specific coverage includes:

• Cancellations due to weather or social unrest in an itinerary country
• Missed connections while you’re off the cruise ship
• Reimbursement for canceled prepaid excursions due to itinerary changes

Cons explained

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage allows policyholders to cancel their trip for reasons other than those listed as covered in their policy details. Standard canceling policies don’t include coverage for situations where travelers simply change their minds about their trip or have personal reasons for canceling. With CFAR coverage, however, they can cancel their trip for any reason whatsoever.

With Nationwide, CFAR Coverage is only available with the Prime and Luxury Cruise plans. If you opt for a lower plan tier, your customization options will be limited to rental car coverage.

Nationwide offers few options for policy customization beyond CFAR and rental car coverage. By contrast, other insurers provide coverage for pets, adventure sports and accidental death and dismemberment.

Nationwide travel insurance plans

Choosing the right travel insurance plan for your trip is crucial. Like the best travel rewards credit cards , the right plan can help you save money on your trip. However, the wrong plan could be an unnecessary expense.

Nationwide offers several travel insurance plans and some level of customization through standard add-ons. You can learn more about the details of each plan and get a quote on Nationwide’s website.

Below is a brief overview of the different travel insurance plans Nationwide offers.

Single-trip plans

You can buy single-trip insurance for a flat price and get coverage for the extent of your trip, whether a few days or a month. Nationwide offers two single-trip plans:

CFAR coverage is only available with Prime. This option costs extra and will cover 75% of non-refundable trip costs, provided you purchase it within 21 days of your initial trip payment and meet other specific requirements.

Multi-trip (annual) plan

Annual plans, also known as multi-trip travel insurance, are designed to cover multiple trips per year and are paid on an annual or monthly basis.

Nationwide’s Annual Travel Pro Plan has several trip cancellation benefit options from $1,250 to $10,000. Trip interruption coverage will depend on whatever tip cancellation option you select. Baggage and personal effects coverage is $500 per person/trip with a $200 per article limit and a $400 maximum for valuable goods.

As for medical coverage, the annual plan provides the following:

• $10,000 per person/trip (secondary) for emergency medical expenses
• $750 per person/trip for emergency dental expenses (included in medical coverage)
• $50,000 per person/trip for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains

This plan does not include CFAR coverage or a waiver of pre-existing conditions

Cruise plans

Nationwide’s cruise insurance differentiates the company from others in the industry. Cruise insurance covers every destination country, plus robust medical evacuation coverage. Nationwide offers three cruise insurance plans.

All three cruise plans offer a benefit that allows policyholders to cancel their travel plans due to work reasons. Additionally, the Choice and Luxury plans include a pre-existing condition waiver, provided you purchase insurance within 14 days of the initial trip deposit and meet certain conditions.

CFAR coverage is exclusively available with the Luxury plan. This option covers 75% of non-refundable trip costs. Please note that CFAR entails an additional cost and requires purchasing coverage within 14 days of the initial trip payment, along with meeting other conditions.

Nationwide travel insurance pricing

With Nationwide, travel insurance costs vary depending on the plan you select and factors such as:

• The number of travelers in your group
• Your age and the ages of your travel companions
• The total cost of your trip
• Add-ons and additional coverage you purchase

To get an accurate estimate of what you might pay for travel insurance with Nationwide, request a quick online quote on the company’s website or contact its 24/7 customer service helpline.

Nationwide financial stability

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company is an established insurer with an A+ (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. This rating indicates the company’s strong ability to meet its financial obligations, particularly in terms of paying out claims.

Nationwide accessibility

Because Nationwide is such a large company, its insurance plans are widely available. The company also takes steps to be as accessible as possible.

Availability

Nationwide Travel Insurance is available in all 50 states. However, policies can vary from state to state. Coverage for itinerary changes, for example, may include those caused by fires, mechanical issues, illnesses and more, depending on the state where you buy your plan.

Contact information

Nationwide allows policyholders to get a quote and file a claim online. The company also offers a 24/7 worldwide travel assistance line: 1-877-970-9059.

You can call the helpline to ask about your coverage or get help finding a network provider. If you want to pay for your Nationwide travel insurance, you can do it through your account or as a guest online.

Nationwide Travel Insurance doesn’t have a public email address, but you can fill out a form on the contact page of Nationwide’s website to send an email.

User experience

Most Nationwide Travel Insurance reviews report an intuitive user experience. The website is easy to navigate and provides clear directions to compare plans, file a claim or make payments. Customer reviews report quick response times and helpful customer service agents.

Nationwide travel insurance customer satisfaction

While Nationwide gets mixed reviews on third-party review platforms, consumers should remember it’s a large insurance company, and most public customer complaints aren’t specific to its travel insurance plans.

Nationwide is rated 1.15/5 stars on BBB.org. Again, that score doesn’t necessarily reflect the experience of Nationwide’s travel insurance customers. However, some customers have reported difficulty filing claims for other insurance products.

Nationwide travel insurance FAQs

How can travelers file a travel insurance claim with nationwide, does nationwide offer a "cancel for any reason" upgrade, is nationwide travel insurance worth it, how we evaluated nationwide travel insurance.

We evaluated Nationwide Travel Insurance for this review by comparing it to other top insurance providers. Some critical features we considered include:

• Variety of plans offered
• Add-on coverage options
• Accessibility
• Customer reviews and complaints
• Coverage limits
• Inclusion of pre-existing condition waivers

Summary of Money’s Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

If you’ve booked an expensive trip and covered non-refundable trip expenses ahead of time, travel insurance could give you peace of mind knowing you can be reimbursed for cancellations and other unforeseen events.

Nationwide offers comprehensive coverage through single-trip, multi-trip and cruise plans. The company might be the best insurance provider for you if you want multiple options for cruise insurance. With the right coverage, you can be protected against cruise-specific setbacks such as itinerary changes and non-emergency evacuations.

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
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Affordable Travel Insurance Tips

• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Cheap Travel Insurance of April 2024

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

In an ever-evolving world, emergency medical and evacuation travel insurance coverage is essential, especially if you're traveling internationally. However, sports equipment coverage, pet protection, and cancel for any reason coverage are among the increasingly popular coverage options that are changing the way we travel.

Best Cheap Travel Insurance

• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best overall
• GoReady travel insurance : Best for trip cancellation 
• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best value
• Trawick International Travel Insurance : Most popular

Compare the Top Cheap Travel Insurance Plans

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a CFAR upgrade add-on on certain plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comprehensive insurance plans include generous coverage for baggage loss, plus protection from hurricane and other intense weather-related issues
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive pricing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Online complaints about claims not being paid and non-responsiveness
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not all more expensive plans include CFAR coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Dropping rating with AM Best
• Annual and multi-trip plans available
• All plans include pandemic coverage for COVID-19
• Coverage for weather-related delays, cancellations and other incidents

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

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

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

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

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

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

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

Affordable Travel Insurance Reviews

So you're planning a big family vacation—if you're lucky, the trip of a lifetime. Travel costs can skyrocket quickly, leaving you feeling a bit overwhelmed. At this point, travel insurance starts to look like a potentially unnecessary cost, but is it really?

The best travel insurance plans can go a long way toward defraying unexpected costs that may arise if you're asking the right questions starting with: What does travel insurance cover ?

Best Affordable Travel Insurance Overall: HTH Worldwide TripProtector Economy Travel Insurance

The HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Economy plan offers the most comprehensive coverage across major categories of all the providers in this guide.

You'll have some peace of mind with up to $75,000 of financial protection for eligible medical emergencies, and up to $500,000 per person for medical evacuation costs. For more everyday expenses, you can also relax with baggage loss and delay, trip interruption, cancellation and delay coverage that will help you recoup many, if not all, of your costs.

However, this plan falls short on missed connection benefits and accidental death coverage, both of which are not available under most circumstances (missed connection coverage only applies to cruises, and will only cover up to $500 per person after a three-hour delay).

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Affordable Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation: GoReady Trip Cancellation Plan Travel Insurance

The GoReady travel insurance Trip Cancellation Plan is exactly that: a cost-effective plan that offers protection in the event that your trip is canceled for a covered reason. The plan we priced out for our hypothetical trip cost just 1.16% of our total travel expenses — a very small amount of money to pay for the guarantee of our money back in the right circumstances.

The benefit is that this plan can supplement other coverage you already have, or give you a little bit of protection for a trip where you might not otherwise have opted for insurance altogether. On the downside, you won't get any protection for medical emergencies, trip interruption or delays or lost bags from this plan.

Read our GoReady Travel Insurance review here.

Best Value Cheap Travel Insurance: Nationwide Essential Travel Insurance

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a well-rounded alternative to HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Economy. This plan offers solid protection for both travel-related snafus as well as situations that might call for emergency medical and evacuation, making it a good choice for trips where you have cause to worry about potential interruptions or delays. However, it does not offer protection for missed connections or accidental death.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here

Most Popular Cheap Travel Insurance: Trawick Safe Travels Explorer Travel Insurance

The Trawick International Travel Insurance Safe Travels Explorer plan has been purchased by more than 36,000 travelers since 2020, and it has great reviews to boot. And no wonder: Trawick offers generous trip delay coverage of up to $2,000 per person, although hopefully you won't need to reach that reimbursement amount because the daily limit is $150.

You'll also be able to rely on a $200 reimbursement per person for lost baggage - one of the higher amounts amongst these affordable plans, although this amount pales in comparison to the baggage loss coverage offered through the best travel credit cards .

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

Types of Cheap Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage.

This type of insurance offers extensive protection, covering everything from medical issues to trip cancellations. While it's more expensive up front, it can save you a lot in the long run.

Medical-Only Coverage

As the name suggests, this policy focuses solely on medical emergencies, making it a cost-effective option for travelers who are primarily concerned about health-related expenses.

Evacuation and Repatriation

In extreme cases where you need to be evacuated due to a medical emergency or a natural disaster, this coverage ensures that you can return home safely without incurring huge costs.

Benefits of Opting for Cheap Travel Insurance

Cost savings.

Cheap travel insurance can significantly reduce your travel expenses, ensuring that you're not overpaying for coverage you might not need.

Adequate Coverage for Less

Just because it's cheap doesn't mean it's lacking. Many affordable policies offer substantial coverage, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How to Pick The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Plan for You

No single travel insurance plan will meet the needs of every single traveler. By nature, we are diverse and evolving meaning travel insurance should be equally so. Travel insurance for a week-long trip to a big city shouldn't be the same as the coverage for a backpacking expedition in the mountains. A splurge to purchase comprehensive insurance coverage may also be worth it for international ventures or other large expenditures.

In most cases, the cost difference between a basic and comprehensive travel insurance plan isn't as significant as you might think. Regardless, it's generally a good idea to choose a trusted travel insurance provider known for exceptional customer service and coverage. (For this roundup, we looked at traveler reviews shared through the travel agency SquareMouth .)

• Assessing Your Travel Needs: Consider the nature of your trip, the destination, and your own personal needs when choosing a policy. This ensures that you're not over-insured or underinsured.
• Comparing Different Policies: Don't settle for the first policy you find. Compare different options, looking at their coverage and prices, to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
• Reading the Fine Print: Always read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what's covered, what's not, and the process for making a claim.

If you just want trip cancellation protection, go with the GoReady Trip Cancellation Plan. For more robust coverage that won't break the bank, consider HTH Worldwide's TripProtector Economy, Trawick's Safe Travels Explorer, or Nationwide's Essentials plan.

Yes, many affordable policies offer comprehensive coverage suitable for international travel. It's crucial to compare policies and understand your needs.

Travelers insurance is relatively cheap because it only covers you for a set period of time, and depending on your plan, the level of coverage you get may not be particularly high. However, even with high coverage limits and extras like cancel for any reason coverage , travel insurance is relatively affordable. 

The average cost of travel insurance is 4%-8% of your trip's cost. This usually translates into a premium between $89 to $399.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cheap Travel Insurance

To determine the best insurance plan for travelers on a budget, we evaluated dozens of products using a hypothetical trip to Australia for a single traveler, age 26, with a total cost of $2,500 for flight, hotel and other incidentals. We then compiled the plans that covered the essentials at the lowest costs.

Of note: All of these plans include COVID-related medical coverage and 24-hour assistance, and pay at least 100% of your trip cost for eligible trip cancellations. None include rental car coverage.

The seven winning plans cost between $29 to $74 — significantly below the typical cost of comprehensive travel insurance, which can range between 4%-8% of total travel expenses, according to the US Travel Insurance Association. But these affordable plans also come with comparably low ceilings for various aspects of coverage such as emergency medical, trip cancellation, or delay — and do not include rental car or "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) protection. So if you think you might need these benefits, it may well be worth upgrading to a comprehensive travel insurance plan for a few more dollars, just for the peace of mind.

Convenience and Flexibility

Each of the plans in this list include 24-hour assistance worldwide from reputable insurance providers. And despite being on the lower end of insurance plans, each of these options includes refunds for up to 100% of your total trip cost for eligible reasons. Each of these plans also includes medical coverage for COVID-related issues that may arise during your travels, which may come in handy as the pandemic continues to evolve worldwide.

Sufficient Coverage in Essential Categories

The cheapest travel insurance plan will rarely cover every scenario that could go awry on your trip. However, each of these plans can at least help you get your money back in the event that your travel is canceled for an eligible reason, and most of them include financial protection if you incur emergency medical bills while traveling. We also factor in what travelers are most concerned about now. 

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

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

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

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WHAT’S COVERED, COSTS, AND TIPS ON FINDING THE BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR YOUR NEEDS

March 28, 2024 | 3 min read.

Travel insurance can be an overwhelming expense to consider atop an already costly vacation. Admittedly, even as a seasoned travel industry professional with three decades of globe-trotting under my belt, I have a moment of pause each time I’m confronted with this. Ultimately, I almost always purchase some travel insurance coverage, especially when it’s a complex international trip. It’s primarily motivated by my aging parents—heaven forbid anything should happen to them—and wanting a safety net to return home at a moment’s notice without incurring massive out-of-pocket costs. This parental paranoia is just a small piece of the greater solace that travel insurance can provide, says AAA Tour Product Manager Randy Osborne. “Everyone can benefit from travel insurance,” he says. “The unexpected happens. It can provide peace of mind and reduce stress during a traumatic situation, as well as a contact to call when traveling abroad.” Osborne has seen it all. He works directly with AAA Travel Advisors and AAA’s preferred travel insurance provider, Allianz . It’s a vantage point that continually provides him with real-life cautionary travel tales. “I’ve never heard of anyone who needed and used travel insurance regretting having purchased it,” Osborne says. He says the biggest mistake people make is this: “Not getting it at all.” Here are some key things to keep in mind when navigating travel insurance   

IT’S A FINANCIAL SAFETY NET FOR YOUR VACATION INVESTMENT There is no “one-size-fits-all” travel insurance plan, says Osborne, since available plans will be based on the trip cost, vacation destination(s) and age of the traveler(s). Most comprehensive travel insurance plans, however, will include varying degrees of coverage for the following:

• Trip Cancellation: This is a predeparture benefit that provides the ability to recoup travel costs if you cannot travel. It’s typically limited to specific reasons covered in the plan. Osborne advises understanding what these covered reasons are upfront when reviewing plan options.
• Trip Interruption: This helps if you need to cut your trip short. Covered reasons typically include an illness or injury during the trip, or a family emergency at home—which, as mentioned earlier, has always been this author’s primary motivator to purchase travel insurance.
• Travel Delays: This helps to cover expenses if your travel is delayed due to a covered reason. Osborne advises understanding what constitutes a “travel delay” within the travel insurance plans you are considering.
• Medical Expenses: This helps to cover unforeseen medical expenses while traveling to destinations where your U.S.-based health insurance may not work. “Frequently, the biggest covered amounts are for medical,” Osborne says.
• Emergency Evacuation Coverage: This typically helps to cover the cost of transportation (plus related medical services and supplies) to a medical facility if you’re seriously injured or ill. The best plans will provide up to $1 million per person for medical evacuation. This can seem high, but evacuation costs can exceed tens of thousands of dollars, especially if you’re traveling to a remote destination.
• Baggage Loss or Delays: This helps to recoup costs for lost luggage, as well as damaged or stolen baggage while you are on your trip.

COMPARE PLANS

In some cases, such as when booking a cruise or a guided group tour vacation, the travel provider may require you to purchase a certain level of travel insurance before you can join the excursion. In these situations, representatives often have options that allow you to bundle travel insurance into the cost of the vacation at the time of booking. Even if this is the case, however, Osborne says it pays to shop around and compare travel insurance plans to see if there is a policy that better suits your needs.   

Most travel insurance companies, including Allianz Insurance, have easy-to-use websites that highlight several levels of travel insurance for your trip. These quotes can be used as baselines for building upon or removing elements. Gather a few online quotes, then speak over the phone with a representative to customize.    

SEEK PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Allow a AAA Travel Advisor to guide you through the process and identify a travel insurance policy that works for your needs, risk tolerance, and budget. The best part: This service is free.

PURCHASE EARLY FOR THE MOST BENEFITS

You’ll get the best and most comprehensive coverage if you purchase travel insurance within the first 14 days of making a trip deposit. (That clock starts ticking once you put a down payment on any part of the vacation.) The biggest benefits include:  

• Trip Cancellation: The earlier you buy travel insurance, the sooner you are protected—even before you step on that plane, train, or cruise ship. “Often I get calls from travelers who didn’t expect to need insurance and then have a [medical] diagnosis before travel that prevents them from going,” Osborne says.
• Better Trip Cancellation Coverage Options: Many travel insurance companies offer more covered reasons for trip cancellation if you purchase it within 14 days of making an initial trip deposit.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, most travel insurance will not cover medical situations due to this condition that arise during your travels— that is, unless you purchase comprehensive travel insurance coverage within the first 14 days of making a trip deposit.

ASSESS MEDICAL COVERAGE CAREFULLY, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE A PRE-EXISTING CONDITION

Most U.S.-based health insurance plans won’t offer medical coverage on non-U.S. soil. Even if you have outstanding health insurance, it may not be very helpful during an international vacation where unexpected medical and health issues arise. This is certainly the case if you’re traveling to more remote areas with limited medical facilities or your vacation includes high-risk excursions and activities. Osborne says it’s important to understand whether travel insurance you’re considering offer primary or secondary medical coverage, and to assess which is best for you.   

If you have a pre-existing medical condition or chronic health problems, medical coverage is an especially critical piece of the policy to scrutinize, Osborne says. He recommends consulting a travel insurance specialist so that you are covered accordingly.

UNDERSTAND WHAT IS NOT COVERED IN THE POLICY It’s easy to focus on what’s included when comparing trip insurance plans. Osborne recommends paying close attention to what is excluded from coverage, too.

Case and point: I recently read about a couple who booked a return flight home after their original flight had been cancelled. When the couple filed a claim with their insurance provider to recoup this cost of this new flight, they learned that this specific scenario was not covered under the policy. (The flight was cancelled due to crew not arriving on time, and the airline was able to rebook the couple on a less-desirable flight home, which the couple declined.)

Clearly understanding the exclusions—and this could be achieved with a simple phone call to the insurance provider’s customer service—could have prevented this financial oops. BE

Find An Agent

AAA Travel Advisors can provide vacation planning guidance to make your next trip unforgettable. Find a Travel Advisor       

CAREFUL RELYING ON CREDIT CARD TRAVEL INSURANCE Just as you should not rely on your U.S.-based health insurance to cover you while traveling internationally, it’s wise to not make assumptions about a credit card that offers travel insurance as one of its perks. Osborne advises reviewing the credit card’s travel insurance coverage amount; the medical coverage policy; whether all trip purchases need to be made with that credit card; and if approved claims results in a cash refund or a travel credit.  

   EPIDEMIC AND PANDEMIC COVERAGE IS AVAILABLE The events of 2020 turned travel on its head, and also impacted the travel insurance industry. As a result, travel insurance companies evolved and most now offer epidemic and pandemic coverage options. “Having coverage for quarantine is at the forefront of people’s minds now,” says Osborne, pointing to the out-of-pocket costs that came with many travelers having to quarantine in a vacation destination when Covid-19 was at a peak.    BUDGET FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE The average cost of travel insurance is 5% – 6% of your trip costs, according to Forbes Advisors’ analysis of travel insurance rates. If you’re planning an international, bucket-list vacation—and want to protect your investment in the unfortunate event that things go sideways—it’s wise to keep this cost in mind when creating your trip budget. “As much as we don’t want to think about the unexpected, things happen and having the coverage you need when you need it can be a huge benefit,” says Osborne. “If you need it, you will never regret having it.

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