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9 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

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World Nomads Travel Insurance »

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Generali Global Assistance »

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Seven Corners »

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Allianz Travel Insurance »

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IMG Travel Insurance »

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WorldTrips »

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Nationwide Insurance »

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

  • Rating Details

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Axa assistance usa.

There are plenty of smart ways to save money on your travel plans, but refusing to buy travel insurance isn't necessarily one of them. Sure, you may not feel you need a travel insurance policy if you are going on a road trip or planning a cheap vacation close to home. However, we all know there are plenty of scenarios – from travel delays and flight cancellations to pandemic outbreaks and political unrest – that can knock any travel plans off track.

Coverage limits and availability may vary by state, and coverage for trip cancellation or interruption due to COVID-19 varies by provider, so you'll want to consult each travel insurance website for further details. Read on to find out more about what each company offers and decide which travel insurance policy is right for you.

Trawick International

Generali global assistance, seven corners, allianz travel insurance, img travel insurance, nationwide insurance.

To determine the Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies, U.S. News created sample traveler profiles for three separate eight-day trips to different destinations (the Bahamas, Spain and Hawaii) at a range of price points ($6,000, $8,000 and $12,000, respectively). We used that information to get quotes for the cheapest option for 100% trip cancellation coverage for each trip. We then calculated the average cost of the trips. The travel insurance companies that appear on the list are those that have a high credit rating and offer the lowest average cost, outlined below. (Note: The sample average costs are not price quotes from U.S. News. To find a travel insurance price quote, use the "View plans" link to enter your trip details and find more information.)

Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies in Detail

  • Up to $2,500 worth of trip protection for cancellation or interruption
  • Up to $1,000 in coverage of lost, stolen or damaged baggage; up to $750 for baggage delays on your outward journey
  • Up to $100,000 in emergency medical insurance
  • 100% coverage for trip cancellation and interruption
  • $750 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $200 in coverage for baggage delays
  • $25,000 in accident and sickness coverage
  • Trip cancellation (up to $30,000) and interruption coverage for 100% of the insured vacation
  • $750 in coverage for lost and damaged luggage; $200 for baggage delays
  • Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
  • Coverage up to 100% of the insured vacation for trip cancellation and up to 125% of the insured vacation cost for trip interruption
  • $1,000 per person for lost, damaged or stolen bags; $200 per person in baggage delay coverage
  • Trip cancellation coverage up to $20,000 to $30,000 (depending where you live) and trip interruption coverage up to 100% of the cost of the trip
  • Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $500
  • Emergency accident and sickness medical coverage up to $10,000 to $100,000 (based on state of residence)
  • Trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage up to $10,000
  • Luggage loss and damage protection up to $500 per traveler; delay protection up to $200
  • Emergency medical and dental coverage up to $10,000 ($500 for dental expenses)
  • Up to 100% in coverage for trip cancellation (up to $25,000) and a trip interruption benefit worth up to 125% of the trip cost
  • Up to $750 for lost, damaged or stolen bags; $150 in luggage delay coverage
  • $100,000 in emergency medical coverage
  • 100% of trip cost (up to $10,000); 100% in trip interruption
  • Up to $250 per item in lost, damaged or stolen baggage (max $1,000)
  • Up to $25,000 in emergency medical and illness coverage
  • Trip cancellation (up to $10,000) and trip interruption (up to 125% of the total trip cost), including travel interruptions or delays due to terrorism
  • $600 for lost, damaged or stolen luggage; $100 in baggage delay coverage
  • Up to $75,000 in accident and illness medical coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

Vacations can unexpectedly be interrupted or canceled altogether due to an unexpected illness, a family emergency, or a cancellation by an airline or resort. "If you've spent a material amount for trip expenses, you want to make sure you're protected in case something happens," says Angela Borden, product strategist at Seven Corners . "If you get sick and can't go, if something happens and you need to come home early ... I think it's really important because travel is so expensive right now."

Not only that, but travel insurance can also cover other components of your trip you maybe haven't considered. This could include lost or stolen baggage or a missed connection that requires a sudden hotel stay and a few dinners while you're rerouted on another flight.

Try not to think of travel insurance as just another expense you should avoid while planning your dream trip. Think of travel insurance as protection for the financial investment you made in your vacation. With that in mind, it is thrifty to shop around for the most affordable travel insurance policies.

Buying travel insurance only makes sense if you purchase enough coverage to protect the investment you made in your trip. For that reason, the cheapest travel insurance plan is not always the best. You should compare pricing, but you should also make sure you're buying coverage from a quality provider (like the ones included above). Additionally, check that your coverage comes with inclusions and limits that make sense for your trip.

To find the right travel insurance plan for your needs, start by tallying up the cost you paid for your trip, including prepaid charges for airfare, lodging and transportation. From there, you can select coverage limits for trip cancellation and interruption coverage, and you can also compare plans based on the most important components that could result in major losses, such as medical coverage and emergency evacuation. Also, make sure your policy provides adequate protection for baggage and personal items, as well as the implications of a significant travel delay. Finally, make sure you have the option to include any additional coverage you need, such as cancel for any reason coverage or waivers for preexisting conditions.

Ideally, you will wind up with a travel insurance plan that offers just the right amount of coverage for a price you can afford.

Keep in mind, some of the more basic travel insurance plans do not include certain coverage that everyday travelers may need.

"A lot of people are focused on cost; one consideration is generally the economy level plans aren't going to have a preexisting condition waiver," says Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com . "... and that may not affect everybody but if somebody has a chronic health consideration like asthma, they would want a policy with a preexisting condition waiver."

Travel insurance may cost anywhere from $50 to $1,500 or more. The cost of travel insurance varies depending on the age of the travelers in your group, the total cost of your trip and other factors. Older people will typically have to pay more for a travel insurance policy since these travelers are more susceptible to health issues as they age. The total cost of your trip will also help determine the cost of your travel insurance plan since more expensive trips require higher coverage limits.

Interestingly enough, the length of your trip and the destination you are visiting will not typically affect the cost of travel insurance coverage. Further, your health may not be part of the equation either, and travel insurance companies even refrain from asking health questions when you apply for a travel insurance quote. This doesn't mean that preexisting conditions will be covered, however, so you'll want to check the details.

The price of the plan you select will depend on how much coverage you want.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

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9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of April 2024

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

get cheap travel insurance

The 5 Best International Travel Insurance Companies for 2024

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

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Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?

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

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When you click "Continue" you will be taken to a site owned by , not GEICO. GEICO has no control over their privacy practices and assumes no responsibility in connection with your use of their website. Any information that you provide directly to them is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website.

Travel Insurance

Get a travel insurance quote and protect your next trip

For flight insurance protection:

Aircare Flight Quote

For all-in-one trip insurance protection:

ExactCare Travel Quote

Manage Your Travel And Flight Insurance

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Take the worry out of your travels with affordable flight or trip insurance.

Looking to plan the vacation of a lifetime or flying home for the holidays? Trip insurance and flight insurance can provide the peace of mind you need for your next journey. The GEICO Insurance Agency, with Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP), offers comprehensive travel insurance coverage, with prompt service and global assistance. Get an online travel insurance quote today and confidently protect your next adventure.

AirCare Flight Insurance

If you only need to protect your travel costs for a flight, AirCare may be what you need. With affordable coverage for both domestic and international flights, AirCare flight insurance helps you plan with peace of mind.

ExactCare Travel Insurance

If you want to cover your flight and other trip arrangement's ExtraCare can help. An ExactCare Travel Insurance policy can help with the unexpected like:

  • Trip Cancellations/Interruptions/Delays
  • Lost/Stolen travel documents
  • Unexpected medical expenses

What's the difference between flight insurance and travel insurance?

The main difference is that a flight insurance policy only covers your airfare. On the other hand, a travel insurance policy helps protect your flight as well as other parts of your trip. While you're planning your next trip, think about where you're going and what you'll be doing. Once you have that, it'll be easier to choose which policy works best for your trip.

What does a flight insurance policy cover?

AirCare Flight Insurance has a variety of benefits including emergency travel assistance, 24/7/365. Some common flight coverages are:

  • Airfare incase flights are cancelled or you miss a connection
  • Personal items like lost or delayed luggage
  • Flight delays in your departure (at the gate or on the tarmac)

AirCare Quote

What does a travel insurance policy cover?

ExactCare Travel Insurance provides all-in-one travel protection, with family friendly pricing and worldwide emergency travel assistance 24/7/365. Common things covered by travel insurance are:

  • Trip cancellation or interruption
  • Personal items like passports and luggage
  • Medical costs like hospital and doctor expenses, medical evacuations, and more

ExactCare quote

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Your coverage is based on the plan you choose. However, in general some things that aren't normally covered by travel insurance are:

  • Action and team sports, for example auto racing, pro sports travel, or other extreme sport activities
  • Travel to get medical care
  • Trip Cancellation because you changed your mind

For more information, please check your policy.

Is travel or trip insurance worth the cost?

Travel insurance can help protect your vacation or trips from unexpected things happening. You can travel without trip insurance but doing so brings greater risk if something goes wrong or you encounter unexpected delays. Flight insurance or trip insurance coverage can include things like flight cancellation, lost luggage, trip cancellation, emergency medical transportation, and more. Learn more about travel insurance and why you should get a travel insurance quote today!

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance typically costs 5 to 10 percent of your total trip cost, though that can be influenced by several things.

  • The cost of the trip
  • The length of your trip and destination
  • The amount of coverage selected
  • The number of travelers covered under the policy

Worldwide service and claims information.

It's easy to manage your travel insurance..

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) has made it easy to manage your travel insurance. You can:

Is travel insurance worth it?

Yes. Things happen that are out of your control. Whether it's your flight being cancelled or delayed to a family emergency. Life happens and that's how travel insurance can help. Plan for the unexpected with a travel insurance policy so you can rest easy knowing you're covered.

Travel Insurance: Get the answers you're looking for.

  • What travel insurance plans are available? BHTB offers AirCare (flight only) and 3 main plans: ExactCare Value, ExactCare, and ExactCare Extra. ExactCare Value provides great traveling insurance coverage for budget minded travelers. You can rest easy knowing you're covered for things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical expenses. The main difference is the maximum amount that will be covered. ExactCare and ExactCare Extra's insurance cover the same things as ExactCare Value and add coverage for missed connections and accidental death & dismemberment. The overall amount covered is also increased for each plan respectively.
  • Can I get trip insurance for an extended overseas stay? Yes. We can help you with getting insurance for overseas. Please visit our overseas insurance page for information about all the options we have for you!
  • Is there travel insurance that can cover my vehicle while traveling to Mexico? Your US auto insurance policy won't cover your vehicle when you drive into Mexico. We're here to help you find the Mexico car insurance you need to insure your car.
  • Tips for saving money on your next vacation. No one wants to overpay things. We're here to help. Check out our 5 ways to save your money on your next family vacation.
  • Where you're going
  • Number of days you're traveling
  • Cost of your overall trip
  • Coverage you pick
  • Number of people covered under your policy

If you choose to get a rate quote or service your policy online, you will be taken to the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection website which is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, not GEICO. Any information that you provide directly to Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company on its website is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website, which you should read before proceeding. GEICO assumes no responsibility for their privacy practices or your use of their website.

ExactCare is provided through Berkshire Hathaway Global Insurance Services, LLC. ExactCare and AirCare are underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company. Both coverages are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, LLC.

Benefits may vary by jurisdiction. Please contact a representative to confirm availability.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

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How to Find the Best Travel Insurance

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

Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

How much does travel insurance cost, types of travel insurance, how to get travel insurance, what to look for in travel insurance, best travel insurance comparison sites, which insurance company is best for travel insurance, when to skip travel insurance, travel insurance, recapped.

Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, emergencies, trip interruptions, baggage, rental cars and more.

Cost is affected by trip length, pre-existing medical conditions, depth of coverage, your age and add-ons.

You can get it through credit cards or third-party companies, & can shop on travel insurance comparison sites.

Before buying, evaluate risks, know existing coverage, obtain quotes online and review policy details warily.

Skip it if you buy flexible airfare and hotels, already have coverage or only book refundable activities.

Booking travel always carries some degree of uncertainty. Travel insurance provides a safety net so you can step out with confidence. You may not need travel insurance for inexpensive trips, but it can provide a sense of security when you prepay for pricey reservations, a big international trip or travel during cold and flu season, which can be unpredictable.

According to insurance comparison site Squaremouth, travelers in 2023 spent an average of $403 for comprehensive coverage, compared to $96 for medical-only policies. Comprehensive plans typically cost between 5% and 10% of the insured trip cost.

Since that price tag is no small amount, it helps to know how to shop smart for travel insurance. Here's how to find the right travel insurance plan for you and your next adventure.

Depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for, the chart below will help you determine what to look for when selecting a policy:

Depending on the policy, travel insurance reimburses you or offers services when something goes awry. There’s even coverage for the worst-case scenario: if you die in an accident while traveling. Accidental death coverage pays your beneficiary a lump sum in that case.

Before you buy, take a little time to get familiar with different types of travel insurance products, how it’s priced, and what it covers and excludes. If you’re traveling during these uncertain times, you’ll want to make sure that the policy you select covers coronavirus-related emergencies. Usually, the more thorough the coverage, the more it will cost.

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

Length and cost of the trip: The longer and more expensive the trip, the higher the policy cost.

Cost of local health care: High health-care costs in your destination can drive up the price of trip insurance.

Medical conditions you want covered: Conditions you already have will increase the cost of travel insurance coverage.

Amount and breadth of coverage: The more risks a policy covers, the more it will cost.

Your age: Generally the older you are, the higher the price.

Any optional supplement you add to your policy : Cancel For Any Reason , Interrupt For Any Reason and more.

Keep these factors in mind when considering different travel insurance options.

You’ll find a wide selection of travel protection plans when you shop for a policy.

Typically, travel insurance is sold as a package, known as a comprehensive plan, which includes a variety of coverage.

Here are seven of the most common types of travel insurance:

Travel medical insurance

These plans provide health insurance while you’re away from home. Although in some ways these policies work like traditional health plans, generally you cannot use travel health insurance for routine medical events. For example, a routine medical checkup is usually not covered. In addition, these policies often include limitations on coverage and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

Although most travel insurance plans cover many recreational activities, such as skiing and horseback riding, they often exclude adventure sports, such as skydiving or parasailing, or competition in organized sporting events. You may need to buy a special travel policy designed for adventure or competitive sports.

International travel insurance

Most likely, your U.S.-based medical insurance will not work while you’re traveling internationally, and Medicare does not provide any coverage once you leave the United States outside of a few very specific exemptions. If you plan on traveling abroad, purchasing travel medical insurance could make a lot of sense.

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

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if the tour operator goes out of business or you have to cancel the trip for one of the covered reasons outlined in the policy, such as:

Your own illness.

The illness or death of a family member who’s not traveling with you.

Natural disasters.

Trip interruption insurance covers the nonrefundable cost of the unused portion of the trip if it is interrupted due to a reason outlined in the policy.

Trip delay coverage reimburses you for expenses such as lodging and meals if you’re delayed during a trip (e.g., your flight gets canceled due to weather ).

Many package policies cover all three. These policies are different from the cancellation waivers that cruise lines and tour operators offer, the Insurance Information Institute says. Waivers are cheap, ranging from $40 to $60, and often include restrictions. For example, according to the institute, waivers might not refund your money if you cancel immediately before departure. Waivers are technically not insurance policies.

Some companies offer additional layers of coverage at extra cost. “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage will reimburse a large part of the trip cost, no matter why you back out. And some companies let you pay extra to cover pre-existing conditions if you cancel for medical reasons.

Some insurers and comparison sites let you customize a policy by choosing types of coverage a la carte. For example, TravelInsurance.com is a comparison site that provides quotes from different providers.

Baggage and personal belongings

How does lost luggage insurance work? This coverage reimburses you for baggage and personal belongings that are lost, stolen or damaged during the trip. Some plans also reimburse you for extra expenses if you experience a baggage delay for more than a certain period, such as 12 hours.

Your renters or homeowners insurance may cover personal belongings while you are traveling. It’s best to review your homeowners insurance policy to determine the level of coverage it provides so you do not end up paying for a benefit you already have.

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

This coverage pays medical expenses if you get sick or injured on a trip . Medical evacuation coverage pays for transporting you to the nearest hospital, and medical repatriation pays for flying you to your home country.

» Learn more: Can I get travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions?

24-hour assistance

This service is included with many package plans. The insurer provides a 24-hour hotline that you can call when you need help, such as booking a flight after a missed connection, finding lost luggage, or locating a doctor or lawyer.

Generally, travel insurance companies do not cover sports or any activity that can be deemed risky. If you’re thinking of incorporating adventurous activities into your vacation, choose a plan that includes adventure sports coverage.

Most travel insurers cover a wide array of services, but the specific options vary. Some plans include concierge services, providing help with restaurant referrals, tee time reservations and more. Many services also offer information before the trip, such as required vaccinations. The only way to know what’s included is to read the policy.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

This coverage pays a lump sum to your beneficiary, such as a family member, if you die in an accident while on the trip. Accidental death and dismemberment insurance policies also pay a portion of the sum to you if you lose a hand, foot, limb, eyesight, speech or hearing. Some plans apply only to accidental death in a plane.

This coverage may be duplicative if you already have sufficient life insurance, which pays out whether you die in an accident or from an illness. You may also already have accidental death and dismemberment insurance through work, so it's best to check your policies to ensure you’re not overpaying.

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

Rental car insurance pays for repairing your rental car if it’s damaged in a wreck, by vandals or in a natural disaster. The coverage doesn't include liability insurance, which pays for damage to other vehicles or for the medical treatment of others if you cause an accident and are held responsible.

Ask your car insurance company whether your policy will cover you when renting cars on the trip. U.S. car insurance policies generally don’t cover you when driving in other countries, except Canada.

Car insurance requirements are complex because they vary among countries. You can usually purchase liability insurance from the rental car company. Learn about car insurance requirements by searching for auto insurance by country on the U.S. Embassy website .

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

Single trip insurance plans are a great option for those going on a single trip for a specific length of time (e.g., a two-week vacation) and then returning home. The price of the policy is usually determined by the cost of the trip.

Long-term travel policies cover you for multiple trips, but there are limitations to how long you can be away from home, if you can return home during your travels and how many trips you can take. In addition, trip cancellation and interruption coverage is either not offered or capped at a dollar amount that can be significantly below the total cost of all the trips taken during the covered period.

Long-term travel insurance plans — often called 'multi-trip' or 'annual travel insurance' — are a suitable option for those who travel often and are satisfied with the amount of trip cancellation coverage for all the trips they take over the duration of the policy.

» Learn more: How annual (multi-trip) travel insurance works

Below, we include how to obtain travel insurance, along with the pros and cons of each option.

Some credit cards offer trip cancellation and rental car insurance if you use the card to book the trip or car.

When you book a trip with your credit card, depending on the card you use, you may already receive trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

Here are a handful of credit cards with travel insurance benefits.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

on American Express' website

Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

• Rental car insurance: Up to $75,000.

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

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

• Rental car insurance: Up to the actual cash value of the car.

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

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

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

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

Cons: You can’t customize the insurance to meet your needs. Most credit cards offer secondary car rental insurance, which pays for the costs not covered by your regular car insurance plan.

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

You can buy travel insurance when you book your flight, hotel and car rental.

Pros: Buying is as quick and easy as clicking “yes” when you book reservations. Coverage is inexpensive.

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance

Travel insurance comparison sites

You can compare different policies and review quotes at once based on the trip search criteria you’ve input into the search form. Examples include marketplaces like Squaremouth or TravelInsurance.com.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs and compare policies and pricing in one place.

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

Pros: You can choose a policy that fits your needs. Many travel insurer websites also offer information to help you understand the coverage.

Cons: You’ll need to go to multiple websites to compare coverage and pricing.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Keep these tips in mind when you’re considering a trip insurance policy.

Evaluate the financial risks you face when traveling. Can you bear those costs yourself, or do you want insurance?

Examine what coverage you already have: Does your credit card offer travel insurance? Do you have renters or homeowners insurance to cover belongings? What is the deductible? Will your health plan cover you in all the locations where you travel?

Get quotes for trip insurance online. Choose a package of the benefits you need and compare prices for similar coverage among carriers.

Narrow your choices and then read the policy fine print to understand what’s covered, what’s excluded and the limits on coverage. You may find that the lowest-priced policy is too restrictive and that paying a little more gets you the coverage you need. Or you might find that the cheapest, most basic policy fits the bill.

If you don’t know which provider to go with, it makes sense to browse a list of plans on a travel insurance comparison site. These online marketplaces will often include plans from the best travel insurance companies along with customer reviews.

Squaremouth

get cheap travel insurance

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

Under its Zero Complaint Guarantee, Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will remove a provider if any customer complaint isn't resolved to its satisfaction.

Has a filter option to see policies that provide COVID-coverage.

TravelInsurance.com

get cheap travel insurance

Compare plans from 13 providers.

See good and poor customer ratings and reviews for each insurer when you receive quotes.

“Learning Center” includes travel insurance articles and travel tips, including important how-to information.

Quotes provided from each provider include a link to COVID-19 FAQs, making it easy for customers to review what’s covered or not.

InsureMyTrip

get cheap travel insurance

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

“Anytime Advocates” help customers navigate the claim process and will work on behalf of the customer to help with appealing a denied claim.

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

get cheap travel insurance

Compare plans from 11 providers.

Search coverage by sporting activity, including ground, air and water sports.

Many types of plans available for students, visiting family members, new immigrants, those seeking COVID quarantine coverage and more.

get cheap travel insurance

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

Over 5,600 customer reviews on Trustpilot, with an average 4.9 stars out of five.

Formerly known as AardvarkCompare, AARDY includes a “Travel Insurance 101” learning center to help customers understand various policies and benefits.

Quote search results page includes COVID-coverage highlighted in a different color to make it easier for customers to review related limits.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care, COVID coverage or a policy that includes extreme sports, these providers have you covered.

Our full analysis and more details about each organization can be found here: The Best Travel Insurance Companies Today .

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

There are a few scenarios when spending extra on travel insurance doesn't really make sense, like:

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

» Learn more: When you don't need travel insurance

Yes, especially for nonrefundable trips and travel during the COVID-era. Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or have travel insurance from your credit card, you shouldn't travel without having some sort of travel protection in place to safeguard you and your trip. Travel insurance can protect you in case of an unexpected emergency such as a canceled flight due to weather, a medical event that requires hospitalization, lost luggage and more.

There are many good travel insurance policies out there and a policy that may be great for you may not be good for someone else. Selecting the best plan depends on what coverage you would like and your trip details.

For example, World Nomads offers a comprehensive travel insurance policy that has excellent coverage for adventure sports. Allianz provides coverage for trips of varying lengths of time through its single trip plans and multi-trip plans. Some providers offer add-on options like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance. If you’re not sure which plan to go with, consider looking at trip insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth or Insuremytrip.

Yes, you can. However, it's better to purchase it sooner rather than later, ideally right after booking your trip because the benefits begin as soon as you purchase a policy.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your trip cancellation benefits to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

Most comprehensive travel insurance plans offer trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and dental, medical evacuation, trip delay and lost luggage coverage. Many plans offer COVID coverage, but you’ll always want to check to ensure that the policy you choose provides that benefit if you’re traveling during these times. Some plans may also allow you to add features like Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

However, the coverage provided by the credit cards is usually lower than if you purchased a standalone policy. Review the travel insurance benefits on your credit card and check that the limits are adequate before foregoing from purchasing a separate plan.

Let’s say you’re going on a trip in a month and a week before departure, you fall and break your leg. If you’ve purchased a travel insurance policy, you can use your

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

It depends which credit card you have. Premium travel cards like the

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

offer travel insurance benefits if you book a trip using your card or points.

Unpredictability is one of the mind-opening joys of travel, but travel insurance should contain no surprises. The time you spend to understand your options will be well worth the peace of mind as you embark on your next adventure.

Whether you’re seeking a single or a long-term policy, each travel insurance option offers different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right policy depends on your trip needs, your budget and how important various benefits are to you.

Keep reading

If you want to dig in deeper to world of travel insurance, these resources will point you in the right direction.

What is travel insurance? How much is travel insurance? Is travel insurance worth it? What does travel insurance cover? Does travel insurance cover COVID?

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

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

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

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

Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

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

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

Find The Best Travel Insurance Policy For Your Needs & Avoid Costly Surprises!

Compare 2024's Best Travel Insurance Companies. Get Yourself Peace Of Mind.

Compare and Buy Travel Insurance

Standard single trip policies.

  • The most popular and comprehensive travel insurance plan
  • Covers cancellations, medical emergencies, delays, and luggage
  • Protection from the time you purchase to the date you return

Annual / Multi Trip Policies

  • Cost-effective option for travelers taking multiple trips a year
  • Includes common medical, delay, and luggage benefits
  • May require add-ons from trip cancellation or interruption

Cruise Insurance Policies

  • Offers comprehensive trip protection on land and at sea
  • Includes high travel medical insurance coverage limits
  • Protects against hurricanes, inclement weather, and more

Adventure & Sports Policies

  • Essential for travelers partaking in high-risk activities
  • Provides protection for lost or delayed sports equipment
  • Strong coverage for cancellations and medical emergencies

Compare and Save in Minutes

Whether you’re heading abroad or staying local, we make it easy to find the best travel insurance plan for your next adventure. No bias. No hidden fees. Just the best trip protection quotes from the country’s leading providers.

Tell us some basic information about your next trip. We’ll use these details to help narrow your search and show the plans that best fit your needs.

Easily see how plans from the best travel insurance providers compete on cost and coverage. Use filters and sort results to uncover the right plan for you.

Get peace of mind at the lowest possible price. We partner with leading providers to offer you the best policies at the best value, guaranteed.

Why Trust Squaremouth?

Squaremouth has helped more than 3 million travelers find the best policy for their trip.

There are more ways than ever before to protect your upcoming trip. With so many choices, it’s crucial to compare options. When planning your next trip, take the time to shop around, compare quotes from different providers, and select the best policy for your specific situation.

That's why we're here – over the past two decades, our industry-leading comparison engine has helped millions of travelers find highly-rated insurance plans and protect their trip expenses.

Our industry-leading comparison platform, enriched by customer reviews, displays unbiased results based on your specific trip details. If you run into any trouble, our multi-award-winning customer service team is just a phone call away.

  • 20+ years serving the travel community
  • Intuitive and user-friendly comparison engine
  • More plans and top-rated providers than the competition
  • Prices are regulated by law; you won't find a lower price anywhere else
  • Multi award-winning customer service team
  • 140,000+ customer reviews with a near-perfect rating across TrustPilot, Google, BBB, and ResellerRatings

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Key Travel Insurance Benefits

Squaremouth customer reviews.

More than 99% of customers would recommend Squaremouth to others. Read what a few of them had to say about their recent experience buying travel insurance.

Great Experience!

The Squaremouth website is fantastic! It was very easy to select coverage and find and compare policies. Will recommend it to others.

Savannah from NC 03/26/2024

Great Coverage and Price

"Getting a travel insurance quote online was easy. We have used Squaremouth before and have been pleased each time. It's peace of mind for our travel needs."

Rhonda from IN 03/20/2024

Easy to Use!

"I always use Squaremouth simply because it is so easy to use and offers plans that are affordable to me."

Emily from AZ 03/08/2024

Very pleased!

"They give great service, and the website is so easy to navigate to find just the right insurance plan. I always appreciate working with them."

Don from UT 03/07/2024

Featured Articles

Our topic experts keep a constant pulse on the travel industry so we can provide the most current information and recommendations based on today's traveler needs.

What Type of Insurance Do I Need?

Plans can range in terms of cost and coverage, so it’s important to identify your specific needs before comparing options. Discover the different types of travel insurance policies you should consider for your upcoming trip.

How to Buy Travel Insurance on Squaremouth

If you’re new to Squaremouth, this quick guide can help you identify your needs, start your first quote, and compare your results. If you need additional help, our customer service team is just a phone call away.

Travel Insurance FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from travelers like you.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for International Travel?

While rare, some countries or organized tours may require proof of travel insurance that lasts for the duration of your trip. Our Destination Center is a good starting point to learn about entry requirements and travel insurance recommendations.

While it is typically not mandatory, travelers should consider buying insurance if they want to protect themselves financially from unforeseen events that may impact their travel plans. Many Americans and U.S. residents purchase travel insurance when planning international or high cost trips.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive travel insurance is designed to cover common disruptions that may impact a trip. Most policies will provide coverage for trip cancellations , medical emergencies , travel delays , missed connections , accidental death and dismemberment , and lost luggage . Travelers that experience financial loss as a result of a covered disruption may be eligible for reimbursement through their insurance policy.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

In general, a comprehensive policy with Trip Cancellation typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total trip cost. The cost of a policy depends on four primary factors: trip cost, traveler age, trip length, and coverage amounts. A policy without an insured trip cost will be significantly less expensive. We recommend comparing plans from multiple providers to find the best priced plan for your trip.

What Should I Look for When Comparing Travel Insurance?

There’s no one-size-fits-all policy when it comes to travel insurance. When comparing plans, you should consider the following:

  • Benefits: Travel insurance benefits outline what situations are covered under each plan. Make sure each plan you’re considering includes coverage for what’s important to you.
  • Coverage Limits: Plans will set limits to how much reimbursement you’re eligible for, and can vary significantly. Higher coverage limits can result in less out of pocket expenses in the event of a claim.
  • Exclusions: Travel insurance companies will list specific activities, equipment, and scenarios that are not covered by their plans in the event of a claim.
  • Premium: Higher priced insurance products do not always equate to better coverage. We recommend choosing the most affordable plan that offers the travel protection you need.
  • Provider Reputation: All providers on Squaremouth have been carefully vetted and offer 24-Hour Assistance services. Customers are also encouraged to share honest reviews about their experience before, during, and after their trips.

Does Travel Medical Insurance Cover International Trips?

In many cases, primary health care plans, such as Medicare or a policy you have through your employer, are not accepted overseas. If you’re not covered, you may be responsible for unforeseen medical expenses if you get sick or injured while traveling.

To avoid out-of-pocket expenses if you need medical care in the event of an emergency, many travelers opt for travel medical insurance. These plans can cover the cost of treating unexpected medical conditions incurred during your international trip.

Are Pre-Existing Conditions Covered by Travel Insurance?

Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies among travel insurance policies. While many plans won’t offer coverage for existing injuries or illnesses, some plans may offer Pre-Existing Condition waivers if certain conditions are met, such as purchasing the policy within a specified time frame from booking the trip.

Will My Policy Cover Trip Cancellations?

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.

What’s the Difference Between Single-Trip and Annual Travel Insurance?

Single-trip travel insurance covers a specific journey for a set duration, offering protection for that trip only. This is the most popular type of travel insurance among Squaremouth users. In contrast, Annual Travel Insurance provides coverage for multiple trips within a year. Annual plans can be cost-effective for frequent travelers and less of a hassle than purchasing multiple single-trip plans.

What's the Process for Filing a Travel Insurance Claim?

To file a trip insurance claim, follow these steps:

  • Contact your insurer: Notify them as soon as possible about the incident.
  • Gather documentation: Collect relevant documents, such as police reports, medical records, or receipts for expenses incurred.
  • Complete the claim form: Fill out the insurer's claim form with accurate details.
  • Submit supporting documents: Attach all required documents to substantiate your claim.
  • Keep records: Maintain copies of all submissions and correspondence for your records.
  • Follow up: Stay in touch with the insurer for updates on your claim status.
  • Be honest and thorough: Provide clear and truthful information to expedite the process.

Remember, the process may vary by insurer, so review your policy or contact your insurance provider for specific instructions. Learn more about what can be covered and how to file a travel insurance claim .

Where Can I Buy Travel Insurance?

Travelers can purchase travel insurance directly from providers, through a comparison site like Squaremouth, or directly through a travel supplier when booking. Credit cards and travel agents are other sources to consider. Travel insurance prices are regulated by law, meaning the price of one specific policy must be the same regardless of where it is sold, whether it’s purchased from Squaremouth or directly from the provider.

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5 Best Cheap Travel Insurance in 2024 (plus DISCOUNTS)

Home | Travel | 5 Best Cheap Travel Insurance in 2024 (plus DISCOUNTS)

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

If you’re taking a trip and looking for the best cheap travel insurance , you’ve come to the right place. Travel insurance may not be the most exciting topic, but it’s an essential part of planning a trip , so make sure you don’t leave home without it!

Besides, you can find affordable travel insurance for all types of budgets, so rest assured that you can get great coverage without spending a lot of money. In this guide, I’ll share the 5 cheapest international travel insurance companies to help you find the perfect fit for your trip needs.

Grand Canyon National Park, cheapest travel health insurance

5 Best cheap travel insurance in 2024

I will say upfront that we use Heymondo for all our trips. It’s one of the best travel insurance companies out there, offering tons of coverage and competitive prices. Plus, Heymondo is the only provider that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a claim for reimbursement. Plus, you can get a 5% Heymondo discount just for being a Capture the Atlas reader.

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5% OFF your travel insurance

Of course, there are other great options, such as SafetyWing , a cheap travel medical insurance that’s perfect for those on a tight budget who don’t mind having a deductible. Keep reading to see all the best options, compare prices, and see what inexpensive travel insurance should include.

Top 5 cheap travel insurance companies in 2024

In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best cheap travel insurance companies of 2024, so I’m sure you’ll find an option that’s perfect for you. To sum up, these are my top 5 recommendations:

  • Heymondo , the best cheap travel insurance company
  • SafetyWing , the best medical-only cheap travel insurance
  • IMG , the best budget travel insurance for seniors
  • Trawick International , a cheap travel insurance for pre-existing conditions
  • Travelex , a cheap travel insurance for families

Keep reading to learn more about each company, including its prices, coverage limits, and other benefits, as well as a chart comparing the cheapest travel insurance policies.

Best cheap travel insurance price comparison

Before I get into details about each of these cheap travel insurance companies , I want to give you an overview of their prices and benefits. This chart will let you see each provider’s price per person, deductible, and coverage limits at a glance.

For this cheap travel insurance comparison , I used the example of a 30-year-old traveler from Canada who was going to Costa Rica for one week with a trip cost of $2,500. I also chose the most affordable plan for each company:

As you can see, Heymondo and SafetyWing are the two cheapest international travel insurance options. While Heymondo costs more, it also offers much higher coverage limits than SafetyWing, which is why it’s our favorite. It’s also the only provider that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.

IMG Global, Trawick International, and Travelex offer similar coverage in some categories, but they also cost more. I recommend reading about each company below so you can determine which one best suits your needs .

1. Heymondo , the best cheap travel insurance company

Heymondo is one of the best cheap travel insurance companies overall, offering a high amount of coverage at a great price. With Heymondo, you’ll have comprehensive travel and medical-related benefits, including emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation insurance , and baggage loss.

There is also a $0 deductible for single-trip and annual multi-trip insurance, and the deductible for long-stay travel insurance is just $250 per claim. Best of all, they’re the only company that pays your medical bills upfront , so you don’t have to pay any medical bills and file a claim later to get a reimbursement.

Heymondo, cheap travelers insurance

Heymondo was also one of the first providers to include COVID coverage in its policies, which set the bar for other insurers. Moreover, the 24/7 traveler assistance app is another testament to Heymondo’s dedication and customer service. You can use it to get in touch with a team of doctors for advice and recommendations for the nearest clinic or hospital.

For all these reasons, we’ve been traveling with this insurer for 5 years, and we have a detailed Heymondo insurance review that you can read for more information. Overall, it’s the best value for money, and for just a bit more, you can upgrade your coverage to include adventure sports, cruises, and electronics.

Right now, we have the annual multi-trip policy from Heymondo, which is the cheapest international travel insurance for frequent travelers. If you decide to purchase from Heymondo, don’t forget to take advantage of our 5% Heymondo discount code by using our link .

2. SafetyWing , the best medical-only cheap travel insurance

Another affordable travel insurance to look into is SafetyWing . Their Nomad Insurance plan offers excellent, budget-friendly medical coverage with some travel-related benefits like baggage loss.

One of the most unique things about SafetyWing is that you can get coverage in your home country for 30 days after you’ve been abroad for 90 days, so it’s a good deal if you want supplementary protection for any medical issues. Moreover, this is a good, cheap travel insurance for families since it offers free coverage for up to two kids under the age of 10.

SafetyWing, cheap travel insurance international

Keep in mind that while SafetyWing has cheap travel medical insurance , it focuses mostly on health-related benefits like emergency medical expenses and COVID coverage. That said, if you’re fine with having medical-only insurance for travel , it’s one of the best deals.

Another drawback of SafetyWing is that it has a $250 deductible per claim, so you’ll have to pay $250 toward your medical bills before the company will cover the rest. If you don’t want a deductible, Heymondo is a good alternative.

3. IMG Global , the best budget travel insurance for seniors

If you’re looking for travel insurance for seniors , then IMG Global is one of the best options. Finding budget-friendly travel insurance for seniors can be super tricky, but IMG Global has a plan specifically designed for travelers 65 and older.

The GlobeHopper Senior Single Trip plan offers travel and medical-related benefits and the option to choose a maximum coverage limit of $50,000, $100,000, $500,000, or $1,000,000. It’s also one of the few cheap travel insurances for pre-existing medical conditions , so it’s ideal for older travelers. While there aren’t as many travel-related benefits with this plan, it does offer lots of flexibility, as customers can choose a deductible of $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, or $2,500.

IMG Global, cheap international travel insurance

And for other travelers, IMG Global’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite plan is a good deal, with a $0 deductible and a good amount of coverage in all travel and medical-related categories. This includes emergency medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption benefits. In fact, its trip cancellation covers a wide range of reasons, including work transfers, job loss, passport/visa theft, natural disasters, and injury/illness.

However, this plan is among the most expensive options we found, so if you’re looking for cheaper single-trip travel insurance , I recommend Heymondo .

4. Trawick International , an affordable travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

Trawick International is another cheap travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions , so if that’s something you’re looking for, I suggest getting a quote.

The company’s Safe Travels Explorer Plus plan is just a few dollars more than the Safe Travels Explorer plan, so it’s worth shelling out a bit more for its comprehensive coverage. This includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more, plus a $0 deductible. You can even add cancel for any reason travel insurance to your policy.

Trawick International, affordable travel medical insurance

While Trawick International offers travel insurance for pre-existing conditions , you must purchase your plan within 7 days of the initial trip deposit date to enjoy this benefit. Also, it’s worth noting that the medical expenses coverage is on the lower end, at $250,000. If you don’t have a pre-existing medical condition and want higher medical coverage, you can get about five times more protection by going with Heymondo .

5. Travelex , a cheap travel insurance for families

Finally, Travelex is another cheap travel insurance company and a great option if you’re looking for domestic travel insurance for the USA . Travelex’s plans are affordably priced and offer comprehensive protection, including coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

You can choose from the Travel Basic or Travel Select plan, although we recommend the latter, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or want a higher amount of coverage. That said, make sure to purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment so you receive a Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusive Waiver.

Travelex, cheapest travel medical insurance

Additionally, Travelex is a good option to consider if you want cheap family travel insurance since kids under 17 are included for free. Plus, you can upgrade your coverage to include things like rental cars, Cancel for Any Reason, and extra medical coverage.

Travelex’s benefits include coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and evacuation and repatriation. While it also offers emergency medical expenses coverage, the limits are quite low, especially considering the price.

Also, for Canadian residents, there is a medical-only plan, which could be a good option if you’re looking for cheap medical-only travel insurance .

What does cheap international travel insurance cover?

When looking for the best deals on travel insurance , remember to check the policies carefully so you understand what’s included. Some cheap travel medical insurance plans include higher amounts of coverage compared to others with similar prices, so it gets a bit tricky.

Below, you’ll find the most important things to consider when browsing affordable travel insurance .

Emergency medical coverage

First, emergency medical expense coverage is one of the most crucial aspects of any cheap travel health insurance . You want to be covered for any unexpected costs that arise from an injury or illness while abroad. Emergency medical coverage includes things like hospitalizations, doctor-prescribed tests, treatments, and even dental procedures.

Angel's Landing Trail, cheap travel insurance deals

Emergency medical coverage with cheap travel insurance

Again, this is one of the most important benefits to look for, even if you want inexpensive travel insurance . It’s worth paying a bit more for a high amount of coverage, especially if you’re shopping around for travel insurance for the USA , where healthcare costs are through the roof.

Medical evacuation & repatriation

Another thing to look for when browsing the cheapest holiday insurance is medical evacuation and repatriation. The costs for these services are super expensive, so having this type of coverage is essential.

With medical evacuation and repatriation protection, you’ll be covered if you need to be transported from a remote area to a hospital or from your travel destination to your home country due to a serious injury or illness. It’s easy to overlook this benefit but should something happen and you don’t have this coverage, it could result in a huge financial loss.

Antelope Canyon, best affordable travel insurance

Medical evacuation & repatriation coverage

Should an emergency arise, you don’t want to delay getting proper medical care, so having this type of coverage is very important!

Covid-related coverage

As I mentioned, Heymondo was one of the first providers to cover COVID-19 the same as any other illness, and many other insurance companies soon followed suit. While the height of the pandemic is over, it’s still worth having COVID coverage.

Besides, most cheap international travel insurance includes this type of coverage, so it won’t increase the price of your policy. If you do happen to contract COVID during your trip, you’ll be covered for the medical and travel-related expenses.

The exact terms and conditions depend on the company, but most insurers cover travelers for COVID testing, treatment, and quarantine.

Trip cancellation (and trip interruption)

Another thing you’ll want your plan to include is some type of trip cancellation coverage. This usually covers reasons like illness, inclement weather, strikes, and jury duty. However, you should always double-check your policy since providers vary on what they will and won’t cover.

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Trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits

Also, be aware that cheap travel insurance typically doesn’t include Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) but may offer it as an add-on. You can check our guide on the best cancel for any reason travel insurance for more information.

Along the same lines, trip interruption coverage will reimburse you if you need to cut your trip short due to a serious illness, injury, or the death of a family member. When buying cheap travel insurance , check to see if this benefit is included and what exactly falls under this category.

Lost or stolen baggage & delays

Lastly, baggage loss is something that even the most affordable travel insurance plans should cover. Anyone who has traveled knows that there is always the risk of your luggage getting lost, damaged, or delayed, so having this type of coverage is a good idea.

Under this benefit, you’ll receive a reimbursement so you can buy new toiletries, clothes, and other essentials if something happens to your luggage. The amount depends on the particular plan you choose.

What’s not covered by cheap travel insurance?

Now that you know the most important things to look for when shopping for travel insurance on a budget , let’s talk about what’s not covered. While cheap travel insurance can definitely offer comprehensive coverage, some policies only cover medical-related expenses, so you won’t be covered for travel-related issues.

Uyuni Salt Flats, cheap holiday insurance

Others exclude certain things like coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, natural disasters, and fear of travel. Again, it’s crucial that you look over your policy carefully so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Tips for buying travel insurance on a budget

Getting cheap international travel insurance isn’t just a matter of purchasing the least expensive policy you see. To get the best bang for your buck, keep these tips in mind:

  • Pay attention to the policy limits to make sure you’re getting the best deal on travel insurance . While you might find lots of plans with low prices, that doesn’t mean they all offer the same amount of coverage.
  • Buy at the right time . It’s better to purchase a policy as soon as you book your vacation so you know the exact price of your trip (this makes the claims process easier). Also, if you buy your policy just after booking your trip, you will have more benefits regarding the cancellation coverage.
  • Shop around and compare cheap travel insurance policies from different providers.
  • Only buy what you need and decline any unnecessary extras. For example, if you just need medical coverage, you don’t need to bother with things like trip cancellation and baggage loss coverage.
  • If you travel more than three times a year, consider getting annual multi-trip insurance , which will save you money in the long run.
  • Check to see if your credit card has travel insurance benefits . Some cards offer protection for trip cancellation or delayed/lost baggage (I’ll touch on this later).

By keeping these tips in mind, you can find cheap travel insurance for any type of trip.

Medical-only vs. cheap travel insurance

As you’re shopping for low-cost travel insurance , you’ll probably come across medical-only travel insurance . While they’re both affordable options, they aren’t the same, so it’s important to know the difference.

Cheap international travel insurance includes both medical and travel-related coverage. This means that you’ll be covered for health emergencies like sicknesses and injuries, as well as trip cancellation and baggage loss.

Catedral de la Puisima Concepcion, cheap travelers insurance

On the other hand, medical-only travel insurance will only apply to medical-related scenarios, and the coverage limits tend to be a lot higher. Of course, this really comes in handy when you’re traveling to countries where healthcare is exceedingly high, like the United States or Japan.

For our trips, we like to have insurance that covers medical and travel-related situations, which is why we always go with Heymondo travel insurance plans. This way, we’re covered for medical emergencies, trip delays, lost baggage, evacuation, repatriation, and more.

Is getting affordable travel insurance worth it?

Without a doubt, travel insurance is worth it , always! When you travel as much as us, you realize that anything can happen while you’re abroad, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared. We’ve had several scary experiences and mishaps, and if it weren’t for our annual travel insurance from Heymondo , we would’ve been stuck with huge headaches and financial losses.

Here are just a few examples of times when we’ve had to rely on our insurance:

  • We had our most traumatic experience in the Peruvian Amazon when our boat capsized and tossed all of the passengers and their bags into the river . We were carried away by the water for about 15 minutes before we were able to get rescued and climb back on land. While Dan and I didn’t need medical attention, we lost a lot of equipment, including a couple of laptops and cameras, several lenses, two hard drives, and our passports. Fortunately, we were able to contact Heymondo via their 24/7 app, and they helped us connect with the Spanish embassy to return to Spain for new passports. Plus, our policy included $750 dollars each for Dan and me to cover our lost equipment.
  • A less dramatic but still terrifying incident occurred in Alaska when Dan’s drone hit a tree and fell on me, cutting up my hand . I got freaked out by all the blood, and, in a rush, we drove to the nearest hospital for medical care. If we had contacted Heymondo first, they would’ve arranged the medical payments in advance, but since we forgot to, we had to pay the $3,000 bill upfront. Heymondo quickly reimbursed us, of course, but imagine if we hadn’t had trip insurance!
  • In Ecuador, Dan got a stomach sickness that led to a hospital visit. Luckily, with our cheap holiday insurance , we were covered for this emergency medical expense.

So yes, getting insurance is totally worth it! Best of all, there are affordable travel insurance plans out there, as you’ve seen in this guide, so there’s no reason not to get it.

Credit cards with cheap travel insurance benefits

The last thing I want to touch on involves getting cheap travel insurance with one of the best credit cards for travel . While not all cards have this benefit, some offer trip cancellation protection or reimbursement for lost or delayed baggage.

Traveler with boarding pass, best cheap travel insurance

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is one option that offers cardholders coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, as well as baggage loss/delay coverage. So, if you’re thinking about buying cheap travel insurance that mostly covers medical-related expenses, you might want to look into a credit card with travel-related benefits.

That said, I still recommend investing in a good travel insurance policy, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. You can find the best deals on travel insurance by looking into any of the providers I mentioned in this guide.

FAQs – Cheap travel insurance

To end this guide, I’m sharing the answers to the most common questions about affordable travel insurance :

What is the best affordable travel insurance?

In my opinion, Heymondo has the best cheap travel insurance on the market, although it’s also worth looking at SafetyWing , IMG Global , Trawick International , and Travelex .

How much does travel insurance cost?

You can buy cheap travel insurance for under $10 per week, although the amount of coverage varies.

What are the different types of budget travel insurance?

You can find cheap medical-only travel insurance or affordable insurance with travel and medical-related coverage.

The best cheap travel insurance covers emergency medical expenses, repatriation, baggage loss/delay, and trip cancellation.

What’s not covered by cheap travel medical insurance?

Some budget travel insurance policies won’t cover pre-existing conditions or travelers over a certain age.

When should I get travel insurance if I’m on a budget?

You should purchase your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday.

Is buying cheap travel insurance worth it?

Yes, even if it’s a cheaper travel medical insurance , it’s still worth getting. This way, you’re covered in case anything goes wrong during your trip, so you can focus on enjoying yourself.

I hope this guide helps you find the best affordable trip insurance for your needs. Don’t forget that you can save money on a Heymondo policy by using our link .

If you have any other questions about budget travel insurance , feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to help you out.

Until then, have a great trip, and don’t leave home without travel insurance!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

and the only one that pays all your medical bills upfront for you!

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Top 7 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies (April 2024)

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The cheapest travel insurance companies are Nationwide, Trawick and Travelex . According to our research, Nationwide’s average policy cost is $175 and Trawick and Travelex’s are $212 , each under the industry average of $221.

Using cost data from seven different traveler profiles, we found the average cost of basic travel insurance coverage for an international trip is between $108 and $298 . The price of travel insurance can vary widely between trips and is based on factors like your age and total travel expenses.

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The 7 Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Here are our picks for the best cheap travel insurance companies in order of lowest average costs across various plan levels.

  • Nationwide Travel Insurance : Cheapest travel insurance
  • Trawick International Travel Insurance: Our pick for student travel insurance
  • Travelex: Our pick for budget travelers
  • Seven Corners: Our pick for international travelers
  • AIG Travel Guard : Our pick for families
  • Generali Global Assistance : Our pick for emergency assistance
  • Faye : Our pick for all-online experience

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Nationwide Travel Insurance

Nationwide Travel Insurance

Pros and Cons

Why we chose nationwide.

Nationwide offers two standard travel insurance plans with up to 200% reimbursement for trip interruptions and up to $150,000 in medical expense coverage. However, baggage limits and medical evacuation coverages are higher, which is beneficial for travelers with independent international health insurance.

Nationwide also offers three unique tiers of cruise protection, with up to 200% reimbursement if your vacation is interrupted or an unavoidable delay causes you to miss your cruise. This can offer peace of mind if you’re flying out of state to a departure port — especially considering national increases in flight delays .

Coverage and Add-ons

Plans and Coverage

The chart below outlines Nationwide’s two single-trip travel insurance plans.

Add-On Options

You can add the following optional coverages to Nationwide’s cruise and single-trip travel insurance plans:

  • Accidental death and dismemberment
  • CFAR coverage
  • Vendor financial default coverage
  • Preexisting medical conditions waiver
  • Rental car collision coverage

Trawick International

Trawick International

Why We Chose Trawick International Travel Insurance

If you’re an international student studying abroad in the U.S., you are usually required to maintain a certain level of medical and evacuation insurance as a term of your visa. Trawick Travel Insurance offers low-cost medical evacuation insurance that meets the minimum requirements for some of the most common student and academically-oriented visa types.

If you’re a student visiting the U.S. from another country, you may be required to maintain a certain level of medical evacuation coverage as a condition of your visa. Trawick Travel Insurance offers up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage as a standalone policy, meeting the insurance requirements of the J1, F1 and H1 visas. This policy is available to both students and faculty approved for select education-related visas and includes access to 24/7 assistance from a qualified, live nursing line.

If you’re a U.S. student traveling internationally, you might benefit from one of Trawick’s standard trip-cancellation insurance plans. Trawick sells a range of 10 individual plan options, varying in terms of coverage levels and benefits. CFAR coverage is available as an upgrade, and budget policy choices can be especially valuable for college students.

Coverage and Cost

If you’re an international student shopping for study-abroad coverage, Trawick offers one specific option: a medical evacuation and repatriation plan. The company offers 10 standard round-trip policies, ranging from its budget-friendly Safe Travels Explorer plan to its all-inclusive Safe Travels First Class. You can even create your own travel insurance plan with the customizable Safe Travels Flex policy — though most options have state-related limitations.

Trawick Travel Insurance currently offers the following add-ons for its roundtrip plan options:

  • IFAR coverage
  • Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Adventure activity coverage
  • Rental car damage
  • Rental property damage
  • Trip delay coverage upgrades

Specific upgrades may vary by policy and destination. Some policies automatically include coverage that you must purchase as an add-on to other plans (like AD&D coverage).

Travelex

Why We Chose Travelex

More expensive than Trawick by a few cents, Travelex earned a spot on our list because of its affordable pricing and decent coverage. Its basic travel insurance coverage can cost as low as $60 and includes all the standard protections you’ll find with more expensive providers. Travelex also offers higher-than-average baggage allowances, combining a competitive price point with extra coverage for travelers.

Travelex bills its travel insurance policies as flat-rate coverage, making your pricing more predictable. Plans also include access to 24/7 emergency assistance services, which can connect you with travel and legal assistance anywhere in the world.

Travelex offers the below travel insurance plans. The Travel Select and Travel America plans include coverage for sporting equipment delays, and Travel America offers medical emergency protection for your pet.

Travelex allows you to add the following coverage to your travel insurance:

  • Adventure sports coverage
  • Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) and medical benefit upgrades

Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Why We Chose Seven Corners

With six total policy options, Seven Corners offers many opportunities to customize your coverage and match protections with price. For example, Seven Corners offers a multi-trip plan that covers a single trip with more than one international destination. In addition, the company sells a medical travel plan for non-U.S. citizens to help cover emergency medical costs while traveling within the U.S.

Seven Corners offers a generous range of travel insurance plans suitable for international destinations around the globe. It offers two plans for international travel with cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage options and a range of medical-only options at reduced price points.

Seven Corners is one of the only travel insurance providers we’ve seen offer multi-trip coverage that protects you across multiple destinations. Overall, Seven Corners has six total policy options, and quotes most plans at lower-than-average premiums.

In addition to offering specialized plans, Seven Corners provides more generous baggage coverage than some other providers. You’ll be able to claim a reimbursement for a baggage delay after just 12 hours, which can offer peace of mind if you’re traveling to multiple international destinations in a single trip.

Seven Corners has two base plan options: Trip Protection Basic and Trip Protection Choice. These policies cover one-way and round-trip travel itineraries in the U.S. and abroad, with up to $100,000 in medical coverage and up to 100% in compensation for trip interruption on the most affordable plan.

Seven Corners currently offers the following add-ons for its roundtrip plan options:

  • Interruption for any reason (IFAR) coverage
  • Sports and golfing equipment coverage

AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard

Why We Chose AIG Travel Guard

While most travel insurance providers require you to purchase an add-on policy for children, AIG offers a complimentary plan for a minor with the purchase of coverage for an adult. Depending on the age of the child and your destination, choosing AIG as your travel insurance provider could help you save on policy costs if you’re traveling as a family.

Trying to buy travel insurance for a family doesn’t have to be overly expensive. With AIG Travel Guard’s Deluxe Plan, you can include complimentary coverage for one child aged 17 years or younger with the purchase of an adult plan. The policy also includes unique coverages for leisurely activities, such as benefits for lost golf tee times and sporting equipment rentals.

In addition to multi-person plans, AIG offers affordable travel insurance for individuals with up to $150,000 in medical expense coverage and up to 150% reimbursement for trip cancellations. All of AIG’s plans also include 24/7 emergency assistance over the phone.

AIG has three travel insurance plans, all of which include family coverage.

AIG Travel Guard allows you to customize your policy with the following add-ons:

  • Preexisting conditions waiver
  • Rental car collision damage

The company also offers coverage bundles that can be added to the Preferred and Deluxe plans:

  • Adventure sports bundle:  Removes policy exclusions for adventure activities and extreme sports.
  • Name Your Family™ bundle:  Allows you to add one person as a family member to take advantage of family-related unforeseen event coverage.
  • Medical bundle:  Increases your policy’s medical benefits.
  • Inconvenience bundle:  Payment for trip inconveniences such as closed attractions, rental home lockouts, hotel infestation, etc.
  • Baggage bundle:  Increases your policy’s baggage benefits.
  • Pet bundle:  Adds travel coverage related to your pet, including benefits for boarding and emergency medical bills.
  • Security bundle:  Covers costs related to security evacuations and trip interruptions or cancellations due to riot or civil disorder.
  • Wedding bundle:  Covers the costs if the wedding you are traveling to is canceled.

Generali Global Assistance

Generali Global Assistance

Why We Chose Generali Global Assistance

If you’re traveling to a country where the primary language spoken is not English, running into even a minor travel issue can cause stress and panic. Generali’s 24/7 emergency hotline offers multilingual support as needed, offering real-time assistance no matter the timezone. An emergency evacuation coverage limit of $1 million is also a generous protection that can make Generali a strong choice for those traveling to international destinations that are considered risky.

Generali Global Assistance earns a place on our list for its around-the-clock emergency support. Customers can access a 24/7 emergency hotline to speak with an expert if an issue arises while traveling, which can provide peace of mind if you’ve never traveled internationally or are traveling to a location where you do not speak the primary language.

Generali extends emergency evacuation coverage of up to $1 million and medical expense coverage of up to $250,000. Plans also feature identity theft protection, a common problem abroad that some travel insurance companies don’t consider.

Generali offers three plans with the below coverage levels. In addition, the Preferred and Premium plans offer reimbursement if you experience any delays when renting sporting equipment on your trip.

Generali offers the following coverage add-ons:

  • CFAR upgrade

Faye

Why We Chose Faye

If you’re a digital native, you may enjoy how Faye leverages insurance tech to help you get a policy quickly and file a claim on the go. Benefitting from a digital underwriting process, Faye allows you to view policy options and start comparing quotes in seconds.

Launched in 2022 , Faye may be a newcomer to the travel insurance industry, but its seamless online experience has already earned the company hundreds of positive online customer reviews.

Faye features an all-online quote process with just a handful of questions, enrollment and claims-filing process. You can enroll in coverage and file claims directly through its mobile app, and even be reimbursed on approved claims to your phone’s Faye wallet. Faye also offers real-time alerts and 24/7 customer service before and during your trip.

We recommend Faye to travelers who want a quick, all-online experience that doesn’t require wading through complicated coverage options.

Coverage and Add-Ons

Faye offers one plan with several optional add-on options.

Optional Add-Ons 

  • Cancel for any reason (CFAR) 
  • Rental car damage or theft
  • Adventure and extreme sports protection 
  • Vacation rental damage protection

*Coverage limits and availability may vary by state of residence.

Compare the Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Below is an at-a-glance look at how each travel insurance company on our list compares in terms of cost and coverage. We collected sample quotes for seven trips with varying numbers of travelers, traveler ages and trip destinations.

Unless otherwise noted, we collected all quotes for this article directly from each company’s website in December 2023.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

After gathering quotes for various traveler profiles from top providers in the industry, our team found that travel insurance costs anywhere from $35 to $765 . However, the cheapest travel insurance companies on our list average $188 per trip . After averaging quotes across traveler profiles, we found that Nationwide offers the most affordable basic travel insurance coverage, with an average policy costing $132.

Note that the cost of a travel insurance policy will depend on factors like your destination, number of travelers, traveler ages, length of the trip and total trip cost. To help you better understand how these factors can affect your travel insurance costs, we’ve outlined several traveler profiles and the average cost of coverage for each in the table below.

*We calculated average plan costs by obtaining quotes from each provider in our review across all available plans.

WalletWatch Tip

Keep in mind that cheaper policies often mean lower coverage. Be sure to review the trip interruption and cancellation coverage percentages, baggage loss coverage, flight connection coverage, medical maximums, and medical evacuation maximums to find out if a low-cost plan is really worth it if you aren’t full covered. Search for policies with 100%+ cancellation and interruption coverage, and offers over $500,000 in medical coverage. 

Factors That Affect Travel Insurance Cost

Travel insurance is not a one-size-fits-all plan. Several factors determine how much your travel insurance will cost, which we’ve listed below.

  • Age: Many travel insurance companies increase costs and coverage amounts with age. You should expect to pay more the older you are, as age often correlates with increased risk. However, typically prices are the same for travelers up to age 50 and increase from there.
  • Plan type: There are all different types of travel insurance policies. The more protection you need, the more expensive your travel insurance cost. Some basic plans may only provide flight or medical protection, so those will be the cheapest. If your plan covers multiple means of travel (like flights, rental cars, a cruise, etc.) or more risk-prone sports (like rock climbing), you’ll pay more.
  • Add-on coverages: Most plans will give you the option to add on certain features without having to upgrade your entire plan. For example, you may be able to buy basic flight insurance for $30 and add on CFAR coverage for an additional $30.
  • Number of travelers: While you can buy a single policy for multiple travelers, each traveler will have their own premium, which increases the total cost of the travel insurance. However, many travel insurance companies offer group-rate discounts.
  • Trip cost: The more expensive your trip, the more it would cost the travel insurance company to reimburse it. As such, your travel insurance premium will increase alongside your reported total trip cost.
  • Trip length: Another no-brainer — the longer the trip, the more you’ll pay for travel insurance. Longer trips are not only more expensive but also increase the chances of something going wrong.
  • Destination: Your travel insurance provider will take the risk factor of your trip destination into consideration when determining the cost of travel insurance. It’s less focused on crime statistics and more focused on the likelihood of danger. For example, if you’re embarking on a rural jungle adventure, you’ll probably have a more expensive travel insurance cost compared to staying in a populous city with a high crime rate.

How To Find Cheap Travel Insurance

Protecting your vacation with travel insurance does not have to break the bank. Consider these tips to find the best possible pricing on travel coverage for your upcoming trip.

Compare Travel Insurance Quotes

Every travel insurance company uses an in-house underwriting formula to determine how much you’ll pay for travel insurance. It’s possible to find the same level of travel insurance from five different travel insurance companies at five different price points.

The only way to know which travel insurance company has the most affordable coverage for your trip is to get a quote from multiple providers. We recommend getting a quote from at least three competing travel insurance companies before making your final choice. While getting a quote takes only a few minutes, it could end up saving you hundreds of dollars on insurance.

Determine the Right Amount of Coverage

Another way to save money on travel insurance is to opt for a policy with only the coverages that you need. For example, most travel insurance providers offer the option to add CFAR coverage, which entitles you to reimbursement for travel expenses no matter why you need to cancel your trip. While this add-on can be convenient, it is also expensive, and you can save a significant amount on coverage by opting out. Once you confirm your travel plans, you can avoid unnecessary expenses by purchasing only the coverage you need.

Check Credit Card and Employer Benefits

Before purchasing travel insurance, it can be helpful to make a call to your credit card company to learn more about your benefits. Many credit cards come with built-in perks, including rental car coverage, trip cancellation protection and travel accident insurance. If you’re able to claim these coverages through your credit card company, you won’t need to buy added coverage through a travel insurer, saving you money.

If you’re traveling for business, you can ask if you have any coverage through your employer. Some large employers that fund corporate travel regularly broker discounted group travel plans for their employees, allowing you to avoid buying your own coverage. Even if your employer only offers a limited travel plan, you may only need to fund supplemental coverage to enjoy full travel protection.

Weigh the Value vs. the Cost

As you compare policy options and collect quotes, take the time to understand the exact coverage levels included in each plan. Sometimes, cheap travel insurance is cheap for a reason — a low-priced plan may exclude circumstances you expect coverage for, limiting the usefulness of your policy.

After getting a quote from a travel insurance provider, make a note of important policy details. For example, if you’re opting for CFAR coverage, how much will you be reimbursed if you cancel your trip? What types of medical conditions and injuries does your policy exclude? What is the maximum amount your insurance will pay if you miss a flight, must come home early or face another emergency? These important questions can help you compare policies and determine the value of your coverage.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

If you’ve never purchased it before, you might be wondering what travel insurance is and what it covers .

As we’ve seen by comparing companies and policies, travel insurance can cover a wide array of things. But some of the most basic coverages are as follows:

  • Trip cancellation protection: Compensates you for nonrefundable trip payments prepaid to your hotel, airline , cruise and other vendors if you’re forced to cancel your trip for a covered reason.
  • Trip interruption protection: Compensates you for nonrefundable trip expenses if you’re forced to leave your vacation early for a reason stated in your policy.
  • Baggage delay and loss: Compensates you for lost, stolen or delayed baggage costs .
  • Emergency medical expenses: This covers the cost of expenses if you’re injured, become ill or experience a medical issue on a trip. Some travel insurance plans also include coverage limits for dental costs.

Common Add-Ons

If you buy a cheap travel insurance plan, it will likely only protect you from the most basic issues. But if you pay a little extra, you can add on coverage for things you might be more likely to need, including:

  • Cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage: When you claim reimbursement through your travel insurance policy, you’ll need to prove why you’re canceling. With a CFAR upgrade, you can cancel your trip for any reason and still claim a percentage reimbursement on nonrefundable costs.
  • Interrupt-for-any-reason (IFAR) coverage: IFAR coverage is similar to CFAR coverage except that it protects you starting 72 hours after your departure until the end of your trip. If you have to cut your trip short for any reason, IFAR will reimburse 75% of the total amount of coverage you purchased for any non-refundable travel arrangements.
  • Collision coverage waiver: Extends your rental car coverage to include collision damage.
  • Financial default: This type of coverage applies if your airline, resort or other trip vendor declares bankruptcy.
  • Preexisting conditions waiver: Most standard travel insurance policies exclude health conditions if you show symptoms before buying travel insurance. An add-on allows you to extend your coverage to waive preexisting condition exclusions.

Is Cheap Travel Insurance Worth It?

When deciding if travel insurance is worth it , we recommend you consider your personal circumstances before making any decisions about a policy. For example, if you’ve purchased an expensive airline ticket — especially one with multiple layovers — you may decide to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment. Travel medical insurance policies can also provide peace of mind around a potential medical emergency abroad, for example, if you are traveling to a remote location.   

While many companies offer cheap travel insurance, not all policies are created equal. As you compare the best travel insurance plans, consider which coverages you can sacrifice to maintain valuable protections and save money. For example, if you have a health care policy that covers you abroad or a credit card that provides rental car coverage, you will not need a plan that includes these protections.

No matter what kind of travel insurance coverage you’re looking for, we recommend comparing premiums from at least three of our top travel insurance companies before deciding whether travel insurance is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheap Travel Insurance

What is the cheapest travel insurance.

Our travel insurance comparison found that Nationwide offers some of the most affordable basic travel protection options for international travel insurance. However, we recommend getting a quote from each provider recommended above before you purchase travel insurance, as prices will vary based on the traveler, trip details, budget and destination.

What are the different types of cheap travel insurance?

There are multiple types of cheap travel insurance, including policies that include coverage for trip cancellation, trip delay and medical treatments issued abroad. Some travel insurance providers offer robust plans with various benefits, while others offer more affordable policies with limited benefits. The latter usually only allows you to cancel for a covered reason to receive a reimbursement for airfare , hotel costs and other nonrefundable expenses.

Do cheap travel insurance plans include COVID-19 coverage?

While travel restrictions have lifted immensely since 2021, COVID-19 concerns are still impacting travelers in 2023. According to a study from AAA , about 31% more Americans now choose to cover their trip costs with travel insurance compared to pre-pandemic.

Many of the companies we’ve reviewed in this guide offer some type of coverage for COVID-19, but it may be more limited in a basic plan. Now that COVID-19 has become less of a threat, many travel insurance policies treat it like any other illness under medical insurance. If you’re in a group at a higher risk of COVID-19 and believe a new strain might affect your travel plan, consider upgrading to CFAR insurance to extend your cancellation coverage to situations like fear of flying or illness.

What is the average cost of travel insurance?

You can expect to pay between 4% and 12% of your total trip cost for your international travel insurance, according to Generali Global Assistance . Actual costs will vary depending on trip details and the type of coverage you select.

What is the best type of travel insurance coverage?

The best travel insurance for your needs might vary depending on the specifics of your trip. For example, if you’re a student taking a budget trip to Mexico for spring break, Trawick’s low-cost basic plan might offer the most bang for your buck. If you’re planning a cruise, Nationwide’s cruise-specific coverage might provide peace of mind. We recommend getting at least three quotes from competing providers to be sure you’re getting the best coverage.

Additional Travel Insurance Resources

  • The Best Travel Medical Insurance Companies of 2023
  • The Best Pandemic Travel Insurance Companies of 2023
  • 6 Best Travel Insurance Plans for Families of 2023
  • The Best Group Travel Insurance Companies of 2023
  • Best Senior Travel Insurance Companies of 2023
  • The Best Travel Insurance for All-Inclusive Resorts (2023)
  • Is Travel Insurance Worth It? (2023 Guide)
  • Single-Trip Travel Insurance
  • 5 Best Travel Insurance Companies for Backpacking Trips (2023)
  • How Much is Travel Insurance in 2023?

Other Insurance Resources From MarketWatch Guides 

Read our comprehensive guides on the following insurance categories to find top providers and peace of mind that you have all aspects of life covered.

  • Leading Pet Insurance Companies
  • Top Travel Insurance Companies
  • Best Homeowners Insurance Providers
  • Leading Renters Insurance Companies
  • Affordable Renters Insurance Providers
  • Top Term Life Insurance Providers
  • Budget-friendly Homeowners Insurance Companies

Methodology: Our System for Ranking the Best Travel Insurance Companies

  • A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
  • A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
  • A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
  • A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
  • A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
  • A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
  • A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
  • Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
  • Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
  • Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
  • Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

More Travel Insurance Guides

  • Best covid travel insurance companies
  • Best cruise insurance plans
  • Best travel insurance companies
  • Best group travel insurance companies
  • Health insurance for visitors to usa
  • Best senior travel insurance
  • Best travel insurance for families
  • Best student travel insurance plans
  • Travel insurance for parents visiting USA
  • Best travel medical insurance plans
  • How much does travel insurance cost?

Other Travel Resources:

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Entry Requirements & COVID-19 Travel Resources 

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Why do I need travel insurance?

Because sometimes..., you have to cancel a trip last-minute..

Travel insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs — including vacation rentals, car rentals, hotels and flights — if you have to cancel for a covered reason.

Travel delays leave you stranded.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for eligible meals, accommodation and transportation expenses during a covered delay.

You get sick or hurt when you're far from home.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling. We can even arrange and pay for a medical evacuation if needed.

Fender-benders are unavoidable.

Renting a car means taking on a big financial risk; even a tiny scrape can cost you hundreds. Low-priced rental car insurance lets you drive worry-free.

You need help in a hurry.

Whether you're planning a week-long road trip or a weekend getaway, you never know what might happen. Travel insurance gives you access to our 24-Hour Assistance hotline for expert, personalized support in a crisis.

Why go with Allianz Travel Insurance?

As a world leader in travel protection, we help more than 70 million people answer the call of adventure with confidence every year.

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From protection for trip cancellation to medical bills abroad, our benefits are designed to help you explore reassured.

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We've got your back with award-winning 24/7 assistance and a worldwide network of prescreened hospitals to help you get the right care.

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From our TravelSmart app to proactive SmartBenefits, we innovate for the way you travel today - and tomorrow.

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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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Factors Influencing the Cost of Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance by company, how to save money on travel insurance.

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How to Get the Cheapest Travel Insurance

Learn how to make travel insurance affordable.

get cheap travel insurance

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Traveling is often expensive and comes with risks you don’t face at home. If you end up getting hurt, losing your luggage, or getting stuck overnight in the airport, the costs can add up quickly. 

Travel insurance offers a way to protect yourself from unexpected travel costs. It covers or reimburses a wide range of expenses so you don’t have to worry too much about the financial fallout of traveling mishaps. And, the good news is, it can be cheap!

Here’s a closer look at how to get the cheapest travel insurance and what else to consider when picking a policy.

As you shop around for travel insurance, you’ll find some of the best travel insurers have a range of policies and price points that include different levels of coverage types and amounts. Here’s a closer look at the common coverage types and how they work. 

Medical Coverage

A prominent feature of travel insurance is medical coverage that kicks in if you get hurt or sick while traveling. It can cover you up to a max limit that often ranges from $50,000 up to $5 million or more. 

Typically, the emergency accident and sickness coverage comes with a deductible and may also have a copay amount and coinsurance percentage . Insurers cover eligible costs after you pay your deductible and they subtract any copay or coinsurance you pay. 

After you pay your deductible, some travel insurance plans cover 100% of approved medical expenses up to your maximum limit.

Emergency Dental

Emergency dental can help to cover the costs of dental care while traveling. Providers will often outline maximum limits, the type of care that’s covered, and specific situations in which it’s covered. 

For example, Seven Corners’ basic plan includes $750 of coverage for emergency treatment if sound natural teeth are causing pain.  

Trip Cancellation, Delay, or Interruption

Some insurers offer trip cancellation, travel delay, and trip interruption coverage. Each of these coverage types typically stands alone and comes with its own respective maximum limit. 

  • Trip cancellation: If you need to cancel a trip because of a covered event and can’t get a refund, this coverage can help you recoup your costs. Covered events may include situations such as you or a family member getting sick, injured, or dying before the trip. 
  • Travel delay coverage: If you happen to encounter travel delays that result in the need to pay for reasonable expenses like accommodations and extra meals, travel delay coverage can help to reimburse you for the costs. Restrictions may apply, such as requiring you to be abroad or requiring a minimum delay length of 10 hours.  
  • Trip interruption coverage: If you need to end a trip early due to extenuating circumstances (death of a family member, serious damage to your home, etc.), this coverage reimburses you for certain costs you’ll incur. For example, it may provide reimbursement if you have to book an earlier return flight.

Loss of Checked Baggage

Baggage and personal effects coverage reimburses you for lost baggage and personal items that you check with a common carrier. Insurers may provide limits per item and per occurrence. 

Baggage Delay

If your baggage ends up getting delayed, this coverage reimburses reasonable amounts you spend on additional clothing and other necessary personal items. It may also cover the cost of locating and retrieving your luggage. 

Insurers often set a maximum limit on the amount they’ll reimburse and may require your baggage to be lost for a minimum amount of time before you qualify (e.g. 24 hours).

Natural Disaster or Emergency Medical Evacuation 

Many insurers include coverage for emergency evacuations with maximums that are separate from your medical limits. However, companies vary in the amount that’s covered, the situations which warrant a covered evacuation (e.g. medical, non-medical, natural disaster), and who can be evacuated (e.g. policyholder, spouse, children). 

Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D)

Accidental death and dismemberment coverage pays a benefit if you’re involved in an accident while on your trip that results in your death or the loss of one or more limbs. In the event of death, the insurer pays the plan’s benefit to your chosen beneficiary. Insurers will vary in the benefit amount they include for this coverage and their criteria for when a situation qualifies. 

Personal Liability 

If you are sued and found personally liable for injuries to another person or damage to another person’s property—due to an event that happened while on your trip—this coverage could help to cover the costs up to your plan’s limits. Insurers may or may not provide this coverage and will vary in their coverage limits. 

Adventure Activities

Many people participate in adventure activities while they’re on vacation. Adventure activities coverage is often an optional add-on that will ensure your medical coverage will still apply, even if you’re injured due to an adventurous activity like bungee jumping, riding a motor scooter, or parasailing. 

Which travel insurance is cheapest? Here’s a look at quotes from five reputable providers.

The above quotes are based on seven-day trips to Mexico and Canada. We chose the entry-level travel insurance plan for each provider and we requested $50,000 in medical coverage. Where a deductible option was present, we chose $250. Further, we requested quotes for 35- and 60-year-old travelers.

Beyond the medical maximum coverage limit, the insurers offered a variety of coverage types and amounts. For example, accidental death and dismemberment coverage varied from $10,000 up to $50,000 between the providers. Baggage delay, trip delay, trip interruption, and evacuation coverage varied. Some offered the above coverage types while others didn’t, and coverage amounts varied for those that did. So, when comparing travel insurance quotes, it’s essential to review what you get for the price. 

Compare the cheapest travel insurance quotes on SquareMouth .

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, the best thing you can do is shop around. Most providers have a variety of plan tiers. So, figure out the minimum amount of coverage you need, and then browse the plan options to find the best overall value. Be sure to read the fine print. 

It may also be helpful to know that you can adjust your medical coverage and deductible amounts to impact your premium price. Lower coverage limits and higher deductibles will mean a lower premium. However, if you end up filing a claim, high deductibles and low coverage limits could put you in financial trouble.

In the end, if something happens, you might be able to save a significant amount by paying a few more dollars each month on your premium. 

If you’re going to live abroad, you’ll want to research best health insurance for expats instead of travel insurance because travel insurance isn’t designed for long-term coverage that extends beyond emergencies. 

What Is the Cheapest Travel Insurance and Who Offers It?

Of the insurers we compared, International Medical Group Inc. (IMG) offered the cheapest travel insurance plan for 35-year-olds while Trawick International offered the cheapest plan for 60-year-olds. However, most of the quotes were within a few dollars of each other, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare more than just pricing. If you’re older than 60, check out the best travel insurance options for seniors .

Does Travel Insurance Cover 100% of the Trip?

Some travel insurance plans cover 100% (or more) of your trip costs in certain scenarios while others don’t. For example, Generali Global Assistance’s Standard plan covers up to 100% of a trip’s cost if you need to cancel and 125% if it’s interrupted. Seven Corners, on the other hand, lists a $2,500 max limit on trip interruption coverage for its basic plan. You’ll have to carefully review the benefits of the policies you’re considering to see if your trip costs are covered, how much is covered, and under what circumstances the coverage applies. 

How Much Does Travel Insurance Usually Cost?

The cost of travel insurance can vary greatly depending on your age, the company you choose, the coverage types you want, and the coverage amounts you need. Rates can start as low as $7 to $10 for 35-year-olds and around $27 for 60-year-olds, depending on the destination. Find out exactly how much it’ll cost you by getting quotes from a few of the best travel insurance companies of 2023 . 

Squaremouth. " Co-Insurance Coverage ."

Seven Corners. “ RoundTrip Travel Protection .”

Generali Global Assistance. “ View Travel Insurance Plan Documents ,” Enter date "3/16/2023" and "California." View Page 8.

Seven Corners. “ Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance for Trips Excluding the USA ," Page 9.

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How To Find Cheap Travel Insurance for Your Next Trip | Money

Travel insurance can cover your medical bills if you experience an injury or illness during your holiday. Depending on the policy you select, the best travel insurance policies can also cover trip interruption, lost baggage, rental car damage and emergency evacuations.

If you’ve invested a good deal of money on pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses or are planning an extended vacation, you don’t want to leave on a trip without protecting yourself from the unforeseen. But you also don’t want to overpay for that sense of security.

Read on to learn how to find cheap travel insurance for your next trip and get tips on buying the right coverage to meet your needs.

How much does travel insurance cost?

The cost of travel insurance varies significantly. According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, you can expect to pay between 4% and 8% of your total trip cost on a travel insurance policy. The exact price will depend on the trip’s length, your age and the coverage amount you select, among other factors.

For example, if your trip costs $5,000, you’ll pay between $200 and $400 for travel insurance. However, if you’re older or planning to be out of the country for a prolonged period, you can expect your insurance premium to reflect those risks.

You may also pay more or less depending on the type of coverage you purchase. For instance, a policy with trip cancellation and medical evacuation coverage will likely cost more than one that provides travel medical benefits only.

What is considered cheap for travel insurance?

Your definition of affordability may be very different from that of other travelers. So, if you want to find the least expensive travel insurance option, there’s no getting around comparison shopping. Cheap travel insurance can be any policy that affords the coverage you need at a lower price point than other options.

Say you’re traveling with professional equipment like cameras. Purchasing a medical-only travel insurance policy could be more affordable than buying one that provides generous coverage for baggage loss and personal effects. However, going for the cheaper option may result in higher out-of-pocket costs if your bags are lost or stolen.

How to find cheap travel insurance for an upcoming trip

Finding the most affordable travel insurance will require some legwork. Here are some tips to make your search easier.

1. Only purchase the travel insurance coverage you need

Buying more insurance coverage than you need will increase your expenses. With that in mind, it’s best to start by understanding what travel insurance covers and then defining your needs.

Most travel insurers offer different plan tiers with various levels of coverage. Plans that cover more scenarios and offer higher coverage limits will cost more. Purchasing add-ons like rental car coverage will further increase the cost of your policy.

So, for example, you probably don’t need a policy that covers baggage delay or flight cancellation if you’re driving over the border into Canada. Instead, you can save money by selecting a more basic plan offering only emergency medical and personal effects coverage.

Similarly, paying for an annual travel insurance policy doesn’t make sense if you only leave the country once or twice a year for a couple of days each time. It might sound like a good idea because these plans often offer cheaper medical travel insurance coverage per trip, but they will cost more if you don’t travel frequently enough to make them worthwhile.

2. Choose the right type of policy for your trip

If you purchase travel insurance, make sure to select a plan that covers the risks you’re likely to face during your trip. For instance, you might go with a policy that covers missed connections and trip delays if your travel plans are complicated and involve numerous stops.

Similarly, if you’re participating in high-risk activities such as rock climbing or scuba diving, look for a policy that covers these, as not all plans do. And if you are taking a cruise, a cruise travel insurance policy can cover risks unique to this form of travel, such as medical emergencies that necessitate an airlift to an on-shore medical facility.

3. Check whether you already have some form of rental car coverage

You’ll need rental car insurance if you’re renting a car during your travels. Depending on your destination, you may already be covered under your car insurance policy. That could be the case if you’re traveling to Canada in a rental vehicle, for example. However, if you’re traveling to Mexico, you’ll need a separate policy.

Similarly, your car insurance policy from back home typically won’t cover you overseas. In that case, you can purchase insurance from a rental car company at your destination or check whether your credit card offers such protection. Many of the best travel credit cards include rental car coverage. If your card does, check whether that coverage is primary or secondary. Secondary coverage applies after you’ve exceeded the limits of any other applicable insurance policies.

With this in mind, you may not need to purchase rental car coverage from your travel insurance company. If your travel insurer offers you a better deal on a collision damage waiver — which is what travel insurers generally offer — call your rental car company first to see if it accepts this form of coverage, as some companies do not.

4. Check your credit card for travel protection benefits

Your credit card may also offer travel protection benefits beyond rental car coverage. Depending on your credit card, you could receive reimbursement for baggage loss and delays, trip interruptions and cancellations, and travel accidents. Some cards also provide emergency medical, dental, and even medical evacuation coverage.

However, every card is different, so contact your credit card issuer to learn what it covers and whether limits and restrictions apply (and they generally do). For example, only trips you purchased with the card would be covered, and you may be required to meet a deductible before coverage kicks in.

Just as with a travel insurance policy, you’ll have to cover any expenses out of pocket and then submit a claim for reimbursement. You’ll also be required to provide documentation to support your claim, such as medical bills. So, whether you purchase travel insurance or rely on your credit card’s travel benefits, always budget for contingencies.

5. Consider purchasing group coverage

Not all companies offering group travel insurance policies consider the travelers’ ages when pricing these plans. That means group coverage may be more affordable than buying individual policies for each group member. If you’re traveling with family, friends or colleagues, shop for group travel insurance instead.

Just keep in mind that group policies aren’t as customizable and coverage limits may be lower than what you need.

6. Comparison shop

We really can’t stress this enough, but comparison shopping is the best way to get a good deal on any kind of insurance, even travel insurance. If you don’t have time to do the legwork yourself, a travel insurance marketplace can help you quickly compare options from various insurers in a single place. It can also give you a better idea of how much travel insurance will cost you .

One possible drawback of doing business with an insurance marketplace is that they don’t partner with all providers, so you could be missing out on a good deal from a carrier the comparison site doesn’t do business with.

Is cheap travel insurance good?

Whether an affordable insurance policy is adequate will depend on what it includes and the specifics of your trip. If you’re flying to multiple countries, a cheap policy that doesn’t cover flight interruption may not suffice. However, that policy may suffice if you drive over the border for a few days and only require basic emergency medical coverage.

A cheap policy that covers all of your main risks is better for you than an expensive plan that doesn’t, so it all comes down to the coverages you need to best protect yourself. When searching for a policy, consider where you’re going, what you’ll be doing and how long you’ll be gone.

Summary of Money’s guide to finding cheap travel insurance for your next trip

Planning a trip takes time, and finding the ideal travel insurance policy will add to your workload. However, travel insurance can give you great peace of mind during your travels by helping you protect your savings. Moreover, affordable options exist.

To save even more on travel insurance, define your coverage needs, check whether you already have other forms of insurance or travel benefits that can protect any aspects of your trip and comparison shop.

© Copyright 2023 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 .

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Compare the Top Cheap Life Insurance Policies

Affordable life insurance reviews, cheap life insurance frequently asked questions.

  • Why You Should Trust Us

How to Pick a Life Insurance Policy that Fits Your Budget

Affordable life insurance: find the right life insurance for your budget.

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.

Life insurance is a great way to care for your family's short-term needs once you're gone. In the right circumstances, it can also be a retirement tool and build generational wealth for your descendants. Compare cheap life insurance options that fit your budget below. 

Best Cheap Life Insurance

  • Ethos Life : Best for Guaranteed Coverage
  • State Farm Life Insurance : Best for Customer Satisfaction
  • Guardian Life Insurance : Best for Preexisting Conditions
  • New York Life Insurance : Best for Whole Life
  • Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance : Best for Customized Coverage
  • USAA Life Insurance : Best for Military and Veterans
  • Transamerica Life Insurance : Best for Foreign Nationals

Ethos Ethos Life

Apply for life insurance online in just a few minutes with Ethos' simple application. No medical exams are required. Just answer a few health questions—many customers enjoy same-day coverage!

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 100% online application process, quotes in minutes
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage starts immediately once approved
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Term policies renewable up to age 94 for qualifying applicants
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No conversion options to turn term policies to whole life for no exam policies
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Whole life policy limits are lower

State Farm State Farm Life Insurance

Bundling is standard, and agents often quote with multiple discounts.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Best in JD Power customer service ratings
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Company offers a range of different insurance products to meet buyer needs
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Agents are knowledgeable about its products
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance products are conservative and limited
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may be subject to multi-year waiting periods before they qualify for full payouts on life insurance policies
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. State Farm agents cannot offer alternative options if State Farm is unable to bind a life insurance policy

State Farm is one of the insurance industry's most prominent insurers offering auto, home, and other insurance. Bundling is standard, and agents often quote with multiple discounts. Its term, universal, and whole life insurance products are no exception.

  • Life insurance products include term and permanent life
  • Ranks highly for customer satisfaction

Guardian Guardian Life Insurance

A++ (Superior)

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offered nationwide
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Financial stability rating of A++ from AM Best
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No medical exam is available
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unique coverage options like survivorship insurance and insurance for HIV applicants
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Although you can get an online quote, you will need an agent to purchase a policy
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Site pushes buyers towards term policies first
  • Life insurance provider with online insurance calculator tool
  • Survivorship insurance and no medical exam policy

New York Life New York Life Insurance

Offers aggressive financial products and extensively trained agents.

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong life insurance options for financial planning and wealth building
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policies available nationwide
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Knowledgeable life insurance agents
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May require a medical exam
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers looking for more modest policies may not find the most competitive pricing

If you're preparing for a comfortable retirement or looking to build generational wealth, New York Life is one of the strongest options. If you have questions or genuinely want to understand your life insurance options, New York Life agents are among the most qualified professionals in the business.

  • Life insurance provider with policies available across the US

Northwestern Mutual Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong financial stability rating
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High customer satisfaction
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Company offers advising and financial planning
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No easy way to get a quote to compare prices
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance agents may not be able to effectively discuss the full range of available Northwestern Mutual life insurance products
  • 5/5 for claims satisfaction according to JD Power
  • Offers whole, universal, variable universal, and term life insurance policies

USAA USAA Life Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing starting with $12/month on some policies
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. May offer coverage to military members other companies won't cover
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers term and permanent life insurance options
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. 2 year waiting period for full benefits on some policies
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. May focus on death benefits only more than other companies
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. All permanent policies are underwritten and serviced by other companies, not by USAA
  • USAA offers life insurance for the military, veterans, and the public.

Transamerica (AEGON) Transamerica Life Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wide range of life insurance products including term, universal, foreign nationals, and more
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policies available for foreign nationals
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Can only be quoted and sold by licensed Transamerica life insurance agents
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Life insurance not available for certain high-risk clients

Best for Customer Satisfaction: State Farm Life Insurance

State Farm Life Insurance took the top spot in the most recent JD Power US Life Insurance Study. Its agents are well versed in its auto, home, life, and other insurance products, quoting with all applicable discounts, claims management, and more. State Farm sells several types of whole life policies ranging from a single premium option (for immediate protection) to a whole life policy with fixed payments. Adults between 50 and 80 may also qualify for a final expense policy with a $10,000 death benefit.

State Farm Life Insurance operates in all states except Massachusetts, New York, and Wisconsin. State Farm Life and Accident Assurance Company offers similar life insurance policies in New York and Wisconsin. Wherever you are within the US, quoting is easy, especially if you're already a customer.

Read our State Farm Life Insurance review here.

Best for Preexisting Conditions: Guardian Life Insurance

Guardian Life Insurance  offers easy online quotes in minutes with no insurance agent required. In addition, the company offers term policies as short as 10 years and as long as 30 years. It also provides whole, universal, and other life insurance products.

What sets Guardian Life apart from other life insurance companies is its unique HIV life insurance. Of course, conditions apply, such as a two-year history of antiretroviral therapy, no AIDS-defining illnesses, and an undetectable HIV viral load. Recently, the company has expanded this program to allow buyers up to age 65. Buyers with a history of IV drug use also have more flexibility as the company can offer coverage after seven years instead of the previous 10 years. The HIV plan is just one of the innovative life insurance products offered by a select few life insurance providers, including Guardian Life.

Read our Guardian Life Insurance review here.

Best for Guaranteed Coverage: Ethos Life Insurance

Ethos Life  is known for its efforts to work with difficult-to-insure populations. The company offers easy online quotes and term and permanent life insurance options. It also has guaranteed issue policies, meaning guaranteed acceptance if you fall between predefined age limits. At this time, all guaranteed issue policies with Ethos are whole life policies. While some companies may offer no medical exam term life insurance , issuance requires underwriter review.

Ethos' guaranteed coverage plans can offer death benefits up to $25,000 for applicants between 65 and 85. Guaranteed plans primarily cover funerals and other final expenses. If you're seeking a higher death benefit, Ethos offers whole, term, and no medical exam policies. Its monthly premiums start at just $7 per month, but interested customers should get a quote on their preferred life insurance plan to nail down exact premiums.

Read our Ethos Life Insurance review here.

Best for Whole Life: New York Life Insurance

New York Life Insurance  specializes in multi-million dollar investment policies great for retirement planning with term, whole, and universal life insurance options . However, it does not provide online quotes. In addition, New York Life insurance agents complete extensive training to answer all questions about its policies and help buyers identify the right policy. New York Life agents can add riders to customize plans to meet your needs. Even with some of its smaller policies, policyholders may earn dividends.

Read our New York Life Insurance review here.

Best for Customized Coverage: Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance  temporarily unseated State Farm as the top life insurance company in customer satisfaction. While it may not top JD Power's rankings currently, the company continues to offer easy quoting, strong customer service, and a streamlined process overall. Northwestern Mutual also allows buyers to utilize diverse riders to customize plans to meet their needs.

Adding a rider to protect your life insurance benefits if you're sick and can't make payments is just one of the affordable life insurance riders offered by Northwestern Mutual. Working with a qualified life insurance agent is the best way to ensure you can customize your plan to meet your needs.

Read our Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance review here.

Best for Military and Veterans: USAA Life Insurance

USAA Life Insurance is available to buyers with no connection to the military, though USAA as a whole has become synonymous with financial services for veterans. What makes it unique is its life insurance policies are open to active-duty military members. Outside of SGLI (servicemember's group life insurance), many life insurance companies restrict coverage for military members in specific ways. SGLI may be generous while you're involved with the military. But once you separate, the coverage would no longer be available.

USAA offers whole life insurance policies with expedited coverage for deployed soldiers. It also provides severe injury benefits and coverage for wartime. One key selling point for veterans is USAA guarantees SGLI replacement when separating from the military.

Read our USAA Life Insurance review here.

Best for Foreign Nationals: Transamerica Life Insurance

Transamerica Life Insurance  (AEGON) offers life insurance limits of up to $10 million with many universal life insurance policies and other permanent options. Visa holders can also buy plans with Transamerica. When evaluating your risk class, some restrictions may apply depending on the country of origin.

Transamerica has decades of history in the life insurance market. It also reports faster underwriting and processing times than its competitors. If you're interested in life insurance with Transamerica, we recommend contacting an agent. It offers limited quotes online, but many of the best policies are only sold through licensed insurance agents.

Read our Transamerica Life Insurance review here.

The average cost of life insurance is $40-$55 a month. Keep in mind that your monthly premium will vary depending on the type of policy you purchase and how much coverage you select.

The cheapest life insurance is term life insurance. Term life insurance policies only last for a set amount of time (usually 10 to 30 years) and they don't accrue any cash value like whole life policies do. Read our guide to the best term life insurance companies to learn more.

Your life insurance will be cheaper the younger you are. As you age, the probability that your insurer will have to pay out on your policy rises and therefore, your premium will be higher.

Term life insurance is generally the cheapest type of life insurance, but it's the cheapest for a reason: It expires after a set term. You can buy a 30-year term life insurance policy, but if you outlive the policy, your relatives won't receive any payout when you die.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Cheapest Life Insurance

We look beyond the obvious factors like online quote calculators and affordable pricing to see what life insurance companies offer. Our life insurance ratings methodology reflects aspects including:

  • Customer satisfaction (as rated by JD Power)
  • Financial stability (as rated by AM Best)
  • Policy types offered
  • Average monthly premiums/affordability
  • Waiting periods required for complete life insurance benefits
  • Exclusions that would prevent you from getting life insurance with the company being reviewed
  • What you can expect from life insurance agents who quote a company's policies
  • How available are a company's life insurance products? (is it licensed to sell life insurance in all 50 states and Washington, DC?)
  • How ethical company practices are measured by recent controversies, charitable activities or donations, etc.

We recommend starting with online research if you want a life insurance plan. You can get quotes online if you want a plan to cover funerals and other limited costs. But first, decide what you want your life insurance plan to do, how much you can afford to spend each month, etc.

Next, we recommend talking to at least one licensed insurance agent. Some of the best life insurance products can only be quoted or sold through a licensed insurance agent. Ask questions about the things you don't understand. Let an agent help you calculate the ideal benefit for your needs. Ask which riders customers add to the policies you're looking at, and compare three life insurance quotes.

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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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Money blog: Cost of £7 pint broken down - how much is tax and profit?

The cost of draught lager has gone up nearly 30% since January 2019, according to the Office for National Statistics. Read this and more in the Money blog, your place for personal finance news. Leave a comment on stories we've covered, or a question for our experts, in the form below.

Friday 5 April 2024 06:58, UK

  • British Savings Bonds announced in the budget go on sale - but experts aren't convinced
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By Ollie Cooper, Money team

We've all heard consumer advice that's repeated so often it almost becomes cliché. So, every Friday the Money team get to the bottom of a different "fact" and decide whether it's a myth or must.

This week it is...

'It's harder to get a mortgage if you're self-employed'

We've enlisted the help of Pete Mugleston , managing director and mortgage expert Online Mortgage Advisor, and to help us get to the bottom of this one, he's outlined two examples. 

"By looking at the two hypothetical individuals, Person A and Person B, I aim to outline the differences and nuances of securing a mortgage under two very different circumstances," he says.

Person A: Self-employed - annual income £60,000

Person A is a self-employed professional with an annual income of £60,000. 

They run their own business, providing services directly to clients and managing their finances independently. 

"In the realm of mortgage applications, self-employed individuals like Person A face a unique set of challenges, especially if they do not have the required proof of accounts readily available," Pete says. 

When it comes to securing a mortgage, lenders typically rely on financial documents to assess an applicant's income stability and affordability.

"For self-employed individuals without the necessary proof of accounts, the road to mortgage approval can indeed become more arduous."

Without the required documents such as two to three years of certified accounts, SA302 forms and business accounts, Person A might find themselves facing several obstacles...

"One potential hurdle is the possibility of a larger deposit requirement - lenders often view self-employed applicants without sufficient financial documentation as higher risk," Pete says.

"To mitigate this risk, they may request a more substantial deposit, possibly ranging from 20% to 25% of the property's value."

For the average UK property, with the value sitting at around £263,600, that deposit could range between £52,700 and £65,900 - a far cry from the more reasonable 5-10% deposit.

However, in some cases, lenders may consider Person A's past and projected future earnings. 

If they can demonstrate a history of consistent income through bank statements, contracts of future work or other evidence, this may strengthen their case. 

"However, this process can be complex and may not guarantee approval," Pete says. 

Lenders also assess the stability of income for self-employed individuals. 

Unlike salaried employees with predictable monthly earnings, self-employed individuals may experience fluctuations in income due to seasonality, market changes or other factors. 

"This variability can raise concerns for lenders, who want assurance that the borrower can consistently meet mortgage repayments," Pete says.

"Without the required proof of accounts, Person A's journey to securing a mortgage may involve more stringent requirements, additional scrutiny of income, and a potential need for a larger deposit."

Person B: Employed full-time - annual income £40,000

Now let's turn our attention to Person B, who is employed full-time with an annual income of £40,000. 

Person B holds a traditional job, receiving regular payslips and tax deductions through the PAYE system. 

"In the eyes of mortgage lenders, Person B represents a more straightforward case compared to Person A, despite earning £20,000 less per annum," Pete says.

"For employed individuals like Person B, the process of obtaining a mortgage tends to be smoother. 

"Person B can easily provide payslips, P60 forms and other employment-related documents to verify their income." 

These documents offer a clear and consistent picture of earnings, making it easier for lenders to assess affordability.

"With a reliable income stream and documented financial history, Person B may qualify for standard deposit requirements, typically ranging from 5% to 20% of the property's value."

Lenders can conduct a straightforward affordability assessment for Person B based on their documented income. The process usually involves multiplying their annual salary by a standard factor (often four to 4.5 times) to determine the maximum mortgage amount.

"In comparison to the self-employed Person A, Person B's path to mortgage approval is generally smoother, with fewer hurdles related to income verification and deposit requirements," Pete says. 

While employed individuals like Person B benefit from easily verifiable income and standard procedures, self-employed individuals such as Person A face a more challenging path, particularly in circumstances where they have less than the required proof of accounts.

In summary...

This one is no myth. 

"For self-employed individuals, the key lies in meticulous financial preparation, including maintaining accurate accounts, saving for a potentially larger deposit and providing additional evidence of income stability," Pete says. 

You can also seek professional help if required. 

With all that in mind, the money must here if you are self-employed is to be well-prepared!

The next time you order an Uber, you might notice something different.

The company is introducing a new safety feature that will remind you to put your seatbelt on.

When your trip starts, the driver's Uber app may sound an alert so you don't forget.

At the same time, your own Uber app will receive a push notification, with another reminder to buckle up.

"You can expect to receive these reminders on a regular basis," Uber says.

"Wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest ways to help keep you and any fellow riders safe. We understand that some riders may have medical exemptions from wearing a seat belt."

Carers will be entitled to unpaid leave under a new law hailed as a "huge step forward" for more than two million people. 

Under the Carer's Leave Act, which comes into force on Saturday, employees who are carers can take up to a week of unpaid leave every 12 months - equating to five days for most people.

They will be entitled to this leave to give or arrange care for a dependent (who has a physical or mental illness or injury meaning they will need care for more than three months), who has a disability, or who needs care due to old age.

Charity Carers UK has said past research found about 600 people a day give up work so they can care due to a lack of flexibility and support. 

The new law is aimed at giving people more flexibility to balance work and caring. 

Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK, said too many "skilled and valued workers are leaving employment due to the stress of balancing work and unpaid care".

Tens of thousands of people are facing crippling tax demands from HMRC for taxes their employers failed to pay. 

It's a campaign that has driven people to the brink of bankruptcy and devastated families.

At least 23 victims have taken - or attempted to take - their own lives.

For the first time, two people who tried to end their lives have shared their story with Sky News.

The following article contains references to suicide that readers may find distressing.

We've all found ourselves stuck on a delayed train and wished we'd chosen any other route to get home. You might even be on one right now.

Well, thanks to a new study you can at least take note of routes you might want to avoid.

It has listed the worst offending companies on the UK's rail network by looking at official data from the Office of Rail and Road between January 2021 and September 2023.

It looked at trains that were cancelled or delayed by 15 minutes or more during that time period.

The research found Avanti West Coast had 15.36% of its services delayed or cancelled. 

The study's second worst offender, with 12.32% of all trains either cancelled or seriously late, is Grand Central Rail . 

And  CrossCountry was the third least reliable operator, with 12.26% of trains arriving 15 minutes or more late, or being cancelled altogether. 

Axel Hernborg, founder of Tripplo , which conducted the study, said: " It's no secret that the UK's rail network is a far shout from those within mainland Europe in terms of efficiency and reliability, and these findings simply underscore that."

Look at the table below for the full list of the 10 least reliable train operators, as ranked by the travel website. The column on the right shows the number of minutes customers lost in delays.

By Faith Ridler, news reporter

At the start of the year, I set myself what felt like an impossible challenge - to make enough cash to finally go on my dream holiday to Japan – all through side hustles.

After a few false starts – and a lot of cat sitting – I discovered Vinted, a second-hand selling app which had the very convenient side effect of helping me declutter my very tiny London flat.

I set up my account at the very end of January, listing a few items that were spilling out of my wardrobe – jackets, dresses and shoes I hadn’t worn once since purchasing them.

I also listed some craft supplies that had become a hobby graveyard on my cluttered desk during COVID lockdowns.

To my surprise, pretty much everything sold.

And to date, I've made the hefty sum of around £1,500. 

This was more than enough for my flight to Japan, a new suitcase, and a hotel for my arrival in Tokyo this summer.

Here are the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way…

Do your research

The biggest piece of advice I could give you if you’re thinking about selling on Vinted is to make sure you know the value of what you're selling.

I was surprised to find through my own selling experience that some brands hold their value much better than others. 

For example, a dress I bought for £40 from a brand called Louche sold (after some weeks) for only £4.

On the other hand, a Lucy & Yak T-shirt I bought for £30 sold used for £20.

You may ask, how do I know what something is worth?

The best way to investigate this is to check what other people are doing on the app. That way, you don’t list things too cheaply and end up losing out.

Other items I found hold their value are Nintendo Switch games, some of which I sold on for face value after completing a playthrough myself.

An important note – make sure you check which items you can sell through Vinted before listing. If you have listings deleted too often, you can get your account banned. You can find this information through the app itself.

No printer? InPost lockers are your friend

A key element of Vinted selling is physically posting the items, which can become a bit of a headache if you don’t know the ins and outs of the app.

I fell victim to the many shipping options at the start of my selling journey – until a kind friend mentioned you can actually switch off methods not available in your area in the Postage tab of Settings.

My advice would be to have a good look at what you can offer for delivery, and make sure those are the only options available for people buying items through your page.

If – like me – you don’t have a printer, you can turn off every option but InPost lockers.

These are postal lockers you simply need to scan a QR code to open and leave the parcel inside.

No label, no problem.

Learn how to haggle

This was something that shocked me about the app.

Although you set a price for your items, almost everybody will try to haggle the price down.

You can ask for people not to send offers in the description of the items, but I’ve had very limited success with that method.

What I find works best is to list the item for slightly more than you would accept, and just let people haggle down. You're still earning the best price, and the buyer goes away with a "deal".

Everybody wins.

Taxes and Vinted

When it comes to earning money through any method, you always have to consider the tax ramifications.

However, as Vinted explains clearly on its website , if the money you make on the app over a year is less than what you paid for the items initially, you pay no tax.

It adds: "The only time that an individual item might be taxable is when you sell it for more than £6,000 and there is a profit from the sale.

"Even then, you can use your capital gain tax-free allowance (which is £3,000) to reduce this profit."

Essentially, if, like me, you're simply decluttering your way to Japan, you're very unlikely to find yourself crossing paths with HMRC.

Trade groups have warned of higher food prices and empty supermarket shelves because of new post-Brexit border fees being introduced this month.

A maximum charge of £145 will apply on imports of plant and animal products, such as cheese and fish, entering the UK through the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel from 30 April.

The fees are intended to cover the cost of operating new border control posts required after Brexit, and will not apply to goods brought into the UK for personal use, the government said.

But importers warned the new charges could lead to higher prices for consumers.

Read more here ...

Ted Baker is the latest in a string of high-street giants to call in administrators in recent years. 

But how does it affect you? 

Let's use Ted Baker as an example. 

Purchases and returns

You can still purchase online or walk into a Ted Baker shop and buy items, but you could run into trouble returning them. 

If the retailer stops trading, it may not be able to get your money back to you.

If that is the case, you would have to file a claim with Teneo (Ted Baker's administrator) to join a list of creditors owed money by Ted Baker – and even then there's no guarantee you'd get your money back.

You could also file a claim with your debit or credit card provider - but again, no guarantees. 

TL;DR: If you have one - use it as soon as possible. 

Teneo has made no changes to the way gift cards can be used at Ted Baker, but as is the case with all administrators, it can change the terms and conditions at will. 

As above, if you lose out on cash because of a company going into administration, you can raise it with the administrators themselves. 

Credits and debits

As we mentioned earlier, you can file a claim with your debit or credit card provider to recover lost funds - but how exactly does that work?

  • Credit card:  If you bought any single item costing between £100-£30,000 and paid on a credit card, the card firm is liable if something goes wrong. If any purchase was less than £100, you may still be able to get your money back via chargeback
  • Debit card:  Under chargeback, your bank can try to get your money back from Ted Baker's bank. However, be aware that this is not a legal requirement and it can later be disputed and recalled back to Ted Baker's bank

A US state is considering a bill giving employees the right not to respond to calls, emails and texts from their bosses outside of paid work hours.

The so-called "right to disconnect" would allow California's labour commission to fine employers for interrupting personal time, reports our partner network NBC News.

The bill makes exceptions for emergencies, scheduling and collective bargaining.

The state's Chamber of Commerce called the proposed legislation a step backwards for flexibility.

However, Professor Amira Barger told NBC the changes would help tackle an "epidemic of burnout" and were a "necessary adaptation" for the future of work.

The planned £15bn mega-merger of UK mobile networks Vodafone and Three is to face an in-depth investigation by the competition watchdog.

The Competition and Markets Authority confirmed it will launch a so-called Phase 2 probe after both firms told the regulator they would not be offering measures to ease its concerns ahead of the deadline, 2 April.

The CMA said last month that the tie-up could have a "substantial" impact on competition, warning it may lead to higher prices and reduced quality.

Read more in our full story .

School strikes over teachers' pay and funding could be staged in September, the leader of a teaching union has warned.

Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union (NEU), the largest education union in the UK, did not rule out launching a ballot on walkouts for the autumn term.

Teachers at the NEU’s annual conference in Bournemouth will vote today on whether the union should "build capacity" to deliver national industrial action.

Ofgem is considering plans for rules on the use of artificial intelligence in the energy industry amid fears the technology could risk "tacit collusion", reports  The Times.

Algorithms that make pricing decisions for companies would make it more difficult to identify who is accountable when it comes to competition issues, the regulator said.

Customers also need to be protected from higher-risk AI used to help balance supply and demand that could cause power outages if they fail.

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