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The Best Travel Medical Insurance of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners

Buying travel insurance is a smart move for any type of trip, but you may not need a policy that covers everything under the sun. If you don't need coverage for trip cancellations or delays because you're relying on your travel credit card to offer these protections, for example, you may find you only need emergency medical coverage that works away from home.

Still, travel medical coverage varies widely based on included benefits, policy limits and more. If you're comparing travel insurance plans and hoping to find the best option for unexpected medical expenses, read on to learn which policies we recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term travel insurance usually describes a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for medical expenses as well as trip cancellations and interruptions, trip delays, lost baggage, and more. Meanwhile, travel medical insurance is coverage that focuses on paying for emergency medical expenses and other related care.

Travelers need international health insurance if they're visiting a place where their own health coverage will not apply. This typically includes all international trips away from home since U.S. health plans limit coverage to care required in the United States.

Note that if you don't have travel health insurance and you become sick or injured abroad, you'll be responsible for paying back any health care costs you incur.

Many travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses you incur during a covered trip. However, the included benefits of each policy can vary widely, and so can the policy limits that apply.

If you're looking for a travel insurance policy that offers sufficient protection for unexpected medical expenses, you'll typically want to choose a plan with at least $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical care and at least that much in protection for emergency medical evacuation and transportation.

However, higher limits can provide even more protection from overseas medical bills, which can become pricey depending on the type of care you need. As just one example, Allianz says the average cost of emergency medical evacuation can easily reach up to $200,000 or more depending on where you’re traveling.

Your U.S. health insurance policy almost never covers medical expenses incurred abroad. The same is true for most people on Medicare and especially Medicaid. If you want to ensure you have travel medical coverage that applies overseas, you should purchase a travel insurance plan with adequate limits for every trip. Read the U.S. News article on this topic for more information.

The cost of travel medical insurance can vary depending on the age of the travelers, the type of coverage purchased, the length of the trip and other factors. You can use a comparison site like TravelInsurance.com to explore different travel medical insurance plans and their cost.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Seven Corners: Best for Families
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• WorldTrips: Best Cost

Coverage for preexisting conditions is available as an add-on

Easy to purchase as needed for individual trips

Relatively low limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellations or trip interruption

• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage loss and damage
• Up to $600 in baggage delay insurance
• Up to $1,000 for travel delays
• Up to $10,000 in travel accident insurance
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Purchase comprehensive medical coverage worth up to $5 million

Coverage for families with up to 10 people

Low coverage amounts for trip interruption

Medical coverage options vary by age

• Up to $5 million in comprehensive medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency evacuation coverage
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for incidental trips to home country
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for terrorist activity
• Up to $500 in accidental dental emergency coverage
• Up to $100 per occurrence in coverage for emergency eye exams
• $50,000 in coverage for local burial or cremation
• 24/7 travel assistance
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment per traveler
• Up to $500 for loss of checked baggage
• Up to $5,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $100 per day for trip delays
• Up to $50,000 for personal liability

Qualify for international health insurance with no annual or lifetime caps

Use coverage within the U.S. with select providers

Deductible from $500 to $10,000 can apply

Doesn't come with any nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $25,000 for repatriation of mortal remains
• $50,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment

High limits for medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation

Covers multiple trips over a period of up to 364 days

Deductible of $250 required for each covered trip

Copays required for medical care received in the U.S.

• Up to $1,000,000 of maximum coverage
• Up to $1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $10,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day for travel delays
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19
• Ability to add coverage for your spouse and/or child(ren)
• Repatriation of remains coverage up to overall limit
• Up to $5,000 for local burial or cremation 
• $10,000 to $50,000 for common carrier accidental death

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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Buying the Best Travel Medical Insurance for You [2024]

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

88 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 36 U.S. States Visited: 31

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

43 Published Articles 3389 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

What is travel medical insurance, what does travel medical insurance cover, what doesn’t travel medical insurance cover, what travel medical insurance isn’t, how does travel medical insurance work, how much does travel medical insurance cost, which company has the best travel medical insurance, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The thought of getting sick or injured while traveling can be one of the most stressful aspects of planning a trip. Often, travelers assume that their primary health insurance will cover all costs of medical expenses on their trip, but not every health insurance plan covers every country and situation.

To ensure you have coverage if you need it, you may need to consider purchasing travel medical insurance. This can fill the gap between your regular insurance and any coverage you may have with your credit cards . We’ll break down all of the important details and tell you everything you should know about travel medical insurance.

If you are traveling domestically within your own country, you will likely be covered by your primary health insurance. If you are traveling abroad, your coverage may not extend to those other countries. This is primarily where travel medical insurance comes into play.

Travel medical insurance is a type of international insurance designed to cover emergency health care costs you might face when you are traveling or vacationing abroad.

A travel medical policy can be an important addition to your trip since your primary health plan may not cover you fully if you need assistance outside of your home country. An uninsured injury or illness abroad can result in a huge financial burden that can be significantly reduced by having travel medical insurance.

Bottom Line: Travel medical insurance is recommended by the U.S. Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to Allianz Travel, the most common overseas medical emergencies that are claimed include:

• Fractures from falls
• Cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack or stroke
• Trauma involving motor vehicles
• Respiratory problems such as a collapsed lung

So going with that first item, let’s say you’re exploring Europe and end up twisting your ankle on the beautiful, but uneven cobblestone streets in Rome. Depending on the plan you choose, you may be covered for:

• The cost of a local ambulance to transport you to the hospital
• Your emergency room co-payment
• The bill for your hospital room and board
• Any other eligible medical expenses, up to your plan limits

But there are limitations to travel medical insurance. Before you purchase a plan, it’s important to know exactly what you are buying — including which things are and aren’t included in your coverage.

Travel medical plans are designed to help in the event of an unforeseen illness or injury while traveling abroad. Travel medical insurance offers emergency medical expense coverage as well as emergency evacuation coverage. This means that the plan will reimburse you for reasonable and customary costs of emergency medical and dental care (up to the plan limits — discussed below).

It is important to look closely at all plans you are interested in since many important things are hidden in the details. You might also find it helpful to brush up on your insurance lingo before doing this.

Plan Limits

Travel medical insurance covers emergency medical costs up to the plan limit. Plan limits vary greatly by plan but typically fall between $50,000 and $2,000,000. This is obviously a HUGE range, so you will have to determine the correct amount of coverage based on a few key items:

• How much (if any) will your own health insurance plan or credit card cover when you’re traveling outside of your home country? As we discussed above, Medicare doesn’t cover you at all outside of the U.S., so this would be an instance where you might want your plan’s coverage limit to be higher.
• How long is your trip? If you’re going to be away for more than 1 to 2 months, you might want a higher plan limit to account for the greater exposure to risk.
• Do you need extra coverage due to risky activities? For example, if you expect to ski, mountain climb, or do any other risky activities where you might get injured, you might want a higher plan limit.
• What do you feel comfortable with?  If you feel safer having $100,000 as opposed to $50,000, then that may be the right decision for you. This insurance plan should provide you a sense of security so you can enjoy your trip.
• Deductibles

Most medical single trip plans have some sort of deductible that you must pay before any benefits will be paid. After this, your travel medical insurance will cover any remaining costs, up to the plan’s limit.

However, you will be offered the option to increase, decrease, or remove the deductible altogether. Based on this choice, the price you pay (aka the premium) will be affected accordingly. For example, if you choose a higher deductible, your premium will decrease. If you choose a lower (or no) deductible, your premium will increase.

Length of Trip

You are covered by travel medical insurance based on the type of plan you purchase. These come in 3 types:

Single-Trip Coverage

This is the most common type of travel medical insurance. When you leave your home, go on a trip, and then return home, this is considered to be a single trip. While on your trip, you can still visit multiple countries and destinations all under the umbrella of this single trip. You will be covered for the duration of this trip under a single trip travel medical insurance plan.

Multi-Trip Coverage

Multi-trip coverage is for multiple trips and often purchased in 3-, 6-, and 12-month segments.

Long-Term Coverage

This is continuous medical coverage for the long-term traveler (think expats or people working abroad) and is typically paid on a monthly basis.

Does Travel Medical Insurance Cover COVID-19?

Many travel insurance policies offer good medical coverage, but not all plans cover expenses related to COVID-19 . If that’s important to you, make sure to verify that the plan you’re buying specifically covers you in case you contract COVID-19.

In general, cancellations due to fear of travel are not covered. However, some plans cover you if you or your covered traveling companion were to become sick as a result of COVID-19. This means that you could still receive benefits for the losses that are covered by the plan.

Many countries around the world , such as Costa Rica and the United Arab Emirates, are even requiring travelers to hold a specific level of medical coverage to account for COVID-19-related medical care and evacuation.

In addition, “ Cancel for Any Reason ” has become a hot topic. This optional coverage is not available with all plans but lets you cancel a trip for a partial refund no matter what your reason — including unexpected travel bans, lengthy quarantine periods, or cancellations due to concerns over COVID-19.

Since travel medical insurance is meant to cover emergencies, certain types of expenses are excluded from most travel medical policies. In addition, for insurance purposes, a pre-existing condition is general defined as any condition:

• For which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received within a defined period of time prior to your coverage date (varies from plan to plan, but is typically within 60 days to 2 years)
• That would cause a “reasonably prudent person” to seek medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment prior to your coverage date
• That existed prior to your effective date of coverage, whether or not it was known to you (commonly includes pregnancy)

Hot Tip: You do not need a medical examination in order to purchase travel insurance. If you have a claim, the insurance company will investigate to ensure that your claim occurred during the coverage period of your policy and wasn’t a result of any pre-existing conditions.

Here are some of the most frequent exclusions:

• Pre-existing conditions as defined above
• Routine medical examinations and care (i.e. wellness exams, ongoing prescriptions, etc.)
• Routine prenatal, pregnancy, childbirth, and post-natal care
• Medical expenses for injury or illness caused by extreme sports
• Mental health disorders
• Injury caused by the effects of intoxication or illegal drugs
• Payments exceeding the plan limit

Unless you’ve purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan, other exclusions include claims related to:

• Trip cancellation
• Lost luggage
• Rental car damage

Be sure to read the description of coverage for any plan you’re considering before you make the purchase. While reading the entire document front to back can be tedious, it’s better to know what’s excluded before you attempt to make a claim.

Now that we’ve let you know what is and isn’t covered by travel medical insurance, we’ll also breakdown the difference between travel medical insurance and other similar options.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance plans offer the most benefits of all plan types and will typically include medical coverage. It can offer you additional coverage for things like trip cancellation, trip delay and cancellation, lost luggage, and more. It’s the best way to cover a host of potential common travel-related problems.

Some comprehensive plans also offer additional coverage for things like rental car damage, Cancel for Any Reason, or a pre-existing condition waiver.

Bottom Line: Comprehensive travel insurance is a full-service plan and includes travel medical coverage as well as other coverages that will protect all aspects of your trip. 

Health Insurance

You might be thinking that already have medical insurance provided by your employer or through Medicare. However, when you travel to other countries, your primary health insurance might not go with you. Before your trip, check to see whether your domestic plan provides any coverage once you’ve left your home country since many offer limited or no coverage.

In case of a medical emergency, you will want to be able to lay your hands quickly on your travel insurance plan’s contact information for the 24-hour Emergency Assistance program as well as your policy number, so make sure to keep this information somewhere that is easily accessible. Also, be sure you know how to place a call to that number from outside the country.

This is important because you’ll be required to call your travel insurance provider and notify them that you need to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Obviously, you may not be medically able to call before you seek emergency medical treatment, but you should do so as soon as you are able to.

The earlier you can call, the more likely it is that you can avoid any issues for payment of claims and you can also get help and advice from the company’s emergency assistance program.

Bottom Line: Specific details on when and how to contact your insurance provider in case of a medical emergency vary by plan and provider, so thoroughly review these details in your plan information.

For example, in the event of an emergency that requires emergency medical evacuation, your insurance provider will have to approve the evacuation and even make those arrangements for you. If you don’t call ahead to have them do this, the company may not approve the expense and you may be stuck paying for the evacuation in full.

Once you are actually at a medical facility to receive care, make sure to document the experience as thoroughly as possible. This means asking for copies of all of your records before you check out. You’ll need to provide these records to the insurance company when you eventually file your claim and having proof of treatment and costs will assist you in filing a successful claim and getting your money back as soon as possible.

Travel medical insurance plans can vary widely in price, but in general, plans cost anywhere between 4-10% of your total non-refundable trip cost. The pricing of any plan takes into consideration many things, including a few that we discussed above, to determine the cost. These include:

• Age of travelers
• Plan limits
• Supplemental plans such as “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage or coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Length of trip

In addition, if you decide that a comprehensive plan is a better choice for you, this will also increase the price.

The best travel medical insurance company for you may be determined by what type and how much coverage you’d like to have. Let’s review a few options and companies to consider.

Credit Card Coverage

Many premium cards have some medical coverage, so be sure to look over all of the best credit cards for travel insurance coverage and protection.

For example, cardholders of The Platinum Card ® from American Express may already have $15,000 of secondary medical coverage . For many, this may be enough, but for others, you may not feel comfortable at this level of coverage and want to purchase a travel medical insurance policy.

Travel Medical Insurance Policies

If you are looking to purchase a plan from a reputable company, a few options include:

1. Patriot Travel Medical Insurance from IMG Global

For the out-of-country plans, Patriot offers:

• Short-term travel medical coverage
• Coverage for individuals, groups, and their dependents
• Daily or monthly rates
• Freedom to seek treatment with the hospital or doctor of your choice

The following plans are available based on the level of coverage that you desire and you can request a quote through their website linked above.

2. GeoBlue Single Trip Traveler Medical Insurance

GeoBlue offers both the “Voyager Choice” and “Voyager Essential” single trip plans. Both plans allow you to choose your level of medical coverage (from $50,000 up to $1 million) and offer $500,000 in emergency medical transportation and repatriation coverage.

The main difference between the 2 plans is that the Choice plan does not require you to be covered by a primary health plan, but doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. The Voyager plan will cover all pre-existing conditions, but functions as a secondary coverage after your primary health plan.

3. Allianz Travel Medical Insurance

Allianz offers an Emergency Medical plan that offers additional benefits that extend beyond simply medical coverage. This plan is a comprehensive plan that covers lost baggage and trip cancellation and delay, in addition to emergency medical coverage. See just a few of these benefits below:

In addition, many companies, such as AAA,  offer travel insurance through Allianz, so you may receive a further discount if you reference your AAA policy.

Travel medical insurance can be beneficial for most travelers when traveling internationally as most primary health insurance plans won’t cover you abroad. We hope we’ve given you the tools you need to select a plan that works best for you and your travel needs.

At the end of the day, a travel medical plan is a great option if you’re traveling abroad and are not worried about covering trip costs due to a cancellation or added expenses due to a travel delay. Anyone looking for robust coverage for baggage or interruption should consider an upgrade to a more comprehensive plan.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

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The best travel insurance policies and providers

It's easy to dismiss the value of travel insurance until you need it.

Many travelers have strong opinions about whether you should buy travel insurance . However, the purpose of this post isn't to determine whether it's worth investing in. Instead, it compares some of the top travel insurance providers and policies so you can determine which travel insurance option is best for you.

Of course, as the coronavirus remains an ongoing concern, it's important to understand whether travel insurance covers pandemics. Some policies will cover you if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 and have proof of illness from a doctor. Others will take coverage a step further, covering additional types of pandemic-related expenses and cancellations.

Know, though, that every policy will have exclusions and restrictions that may limit coverage. For example, fear of travel is generally not a covered reason for invoking trip cancellation or interruption coverage, while specific stipulations may apply to elevated travel warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Interested in travel insurance? Visit InsureMyTrip.com to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs.

So, before buying a specific policy, you must understand the full terms and any special notices the insurer has about COVID-19. You may even want to buy the optional cancel for any reason add-on that's available for some comprehensive policies. While you'll pay more for that protection, it allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and still get some of your costs back. Note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has other eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

In this guide, we'll review several policies from top travel insurance providers so you have a better understanding of your options before picking the policy and provider that best address your wants and needs.

The best travel insurance providers

To put together this list of the best travel insurance providers, a number of details were considered: favorable ratings from TPG Lounge members, the availability of details about policies and the claims process online, positive online ratings and the ability to purchase policies in most U.S. states. You can also search for options from these (and other) providers through an insurance comparison site like InsureMyTrip .

When comparing insurance providers, I priced out a single-trip policy for each provider for a $2,000, one-week vacation to Istanbul . I used my actual age and state of residence when obtaining quotes. As a result, you may see a different price — or even additional policies due to regulations for travel insurance varying from state to state — when getting a quote.

AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard receives many positive reviews from readers in the TPG Lounge who have filed claims with the company. AIG offers three plans online, which you can compare side by side, and the ability to examine sample policies. Here are three plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

AIG Travel Guard also offers an annual travel plan. This plan is priced at $259 per year for one Florida resident.

Additionally, AIG Travel Guard offers several other policies, including a single-trip policy without trip cancellation protection . See AIG Travel Guard's COVID-19 notification and COVID-19 advisory for current details regarding COVID-19 coverage.

Preexisting conditions

Typically, AIG Travel Guard wouldn't cover you for any loss or expense due to a preexisting medical condition that existed within 180 days of the coverage effective date. However, AIG Travel Guard may waive the preexisting medical condition exclusion on some plans if you meet the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of your initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage you purchase equals all trip costs at the time of purchase. You must update your coverage to insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements that you add to your trip within 15 days of paying the travel supplier for these additional arrangements.
• You must be medically able to travel when you purchase your plan.

Standout features

• The Deluxe and Preferred plans allow you to purchase an upgrade that lets you cancel your trip for any reason. However, reimbursement under this coverage will not exceed 50% or 75% of your covered trip cost.
• You can include one child (age 17 and younger) with each paying adult for no additional cost on most single-trip plans.
• Other optional upgrades, including an adventure sports bundle, a baggage bundle, an inconvenience bundle, a pet bundle, a security bundle and a wedding bundle, are available on some policies. So, an AIG Travel Guard plan may be a good choice if you know you want extra coverage in specific areas.

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz is one of the most highly regarded providers in the TPG Lounge, and many readers found the claim process reasonable. Allianz offers many plans, including the following single-trip plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

If you travel frequently, it may make sense to purchase an annual multi-trip policy. For this plan, all of the maximum coverage amounts in the table below are per trip (except for the trip cancellation and trip interruption amounts, which are an aggregate limit per policy). Trips typically must last no more than 45 days, although some plans may cover trips of up to 90 days.

See Allianz's coverage alert for current information on COVID-19 coverage.

Most Allianz travel insurance plans may cover preexisting medical conditions if you meet particular requirements. For the OneTrip Premier, Prime and Basic plans, the requirements are as follows:

• You purchased the policy within 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.
• You were a U.S. resident when you purchased the policy.
• You were medically able to travel when you purchased the policy.
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the total, nonrefundable cost of your trip (including arrangements that will become nonrefundable or subject to cancellation penalties before your departure date). If you incur additional nonrefundable trip expenses after purchasing this policy, you must insure them within 14 days of their purchase.
• Allianz offers reasonably priced annual policies for independent travelers and families who take multiple trips lasting up to 45 days (or 90 days for select plans) per year.
• Some Allianz plans provide the option of receiving a flat reimbursement amount without receipts for trip delay and baggage delay claims. Of course, you can also submit receipts to get up to the maximum refund.
• For emergency transportation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Allianz, and Allianz must then make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, most Allianz policies provide an option if you cannot contact the company: Allianz will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

American Express Travel Insurance offers four different package plans and a build-your-own coverage option. You don't have to be an American Express cardholder to purchase this insurance. Here are the four package options for my sample weeklong trip to Turkey. Unlike some other providers, Amex won't ask for your travel destination on the initial quote (but will when you purchase the plan).

Amex's build-your-own coverage plan is unique because you can purchase just the coverage you need. For most types of protection, you can even select the coverage amount that works best for you.

The prices for the packages and the build-your-own plan don't increase for longer trips — as long as the trip cost remains constant. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit is only available for your first 60 days of travel.

Typically, Amex won't cover any loss you incur because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. However, Amex may waive its preexisting-condition exclusion if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You must be medically able to travel at the time you pay the policy premium.
• You pay the policy premium within 14 days of making the first covered trip deposit.
• Amex's build-your-own coverage option allows you to only purchase — and pay for — the coverage you need.
• Coverage on long trips doesn't cost more than coverage for short trips, making this policy ideal for extended getaways. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit only covers your first 60 days of travel.
• American Express Travel Insurance can protect travel expenses you purchase with Amex Membership Rewards points in the Pay with Points program (as well as travel expenses bought with cash, debit or credit). However, travel expenses bought with other types of points and miles aren't covered.

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

GeoBlue is different from most other providers described in this piece because it only provides medical coverage while you're traveling internationally and does not offer benefits to protect the cost of your trip. There are many different policies. Some require you to have primary health insurance in the U.S. (although it doesn't need to be provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield), but all of them only offer coverage while traveling outside the U.S.

Two single-trip plans are available if you're traveling for six months or less. The Voyager Choice policy provides coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger and already have a U.S. health insurance policy.

The Voyager Essential policy provides coverage (including medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger, regardless of whether they have primary health insurance.

In addition to these options, two multi-trip plans cover trips of up to 70 days each for one year. Both policies provide coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for preexisting conditions) to travelers with primary health insurance.

Be sure to check out GeoBlue's COVID-19 notices before buying a plan.

Most GeoBlue policies explicitly cover sudden recurrences of preexisting conditions for medical services and medical evacuation.

• GeoBlue can be an excellent option if you're mainly concerned about the medical side of travel insurance.
• GeoBlue provides single-trip, multi-trip and long-term medical travel insurance policies for many different types of travel.

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

IMG offers various travel medical insurance policies for travelers, as well as comprehensive travel insurance policies. For a single trip of 90 days or less, there are five policy types available for vacation or holiday travelers. Although you must enter your gender, males and females received the same quote for my one-week search.

You can purchase an annual multi-trip travel medical insurance plan. Some only cover trips lasting up to 30 or 45 days, but others provide coverage for longer trips.

See IMG's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Most plans may cover preexisting conditions under set parameters or up to specific amounts. For example, the iTravelInsured Travel LX travel insurance plan shown above may cover preexisting conditions if you purchase the insurance within 24 hours of making the final payment for your trip.

For the travel medical insurance plans shown above, preexisting conditions are covered for travelers younger than 70. However, coverage is capped based on your age and whether you have a primary health insurance policy.

• Some annual multi-trip plans are modestly priced.
• iTravelInsured Travel LX may offer optional cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason coverage, if eligible.

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

Travelex offers three single-trip plans: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. However, only the Travel Basic and Travel Select plans would be applicable for my trip to Turkey.

See Travelex's COVID-19 coverage statement for coronavirus-specific information.

Typically, Travelex won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 60 days of the coverage effective date. However, the Travel Select plan may offer a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, the insured traveler must meet all the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage purchased equals all prepaid, nonrefundable payments or deposits applicable to the trip at the time of purchase. Additionally, you must insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements added to the same trip within 15 days of payment or deposit.
• All insured individuals are medically able to travel when they pay the plan cost.
• The trip cost does not exceed the maximum trip cost limit under trip cancellation as shown in the schedule per person (only applicable to trip cancellation, interruption and delay).
• Travelex's Travel Select policy can cover trips lasting up to 364 days, which is longer than many single-trip policies.
• Neither Travelex policy requires receipts for trip and baggage delay expenses less than $25.
• For emergency evacuation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Travelex and have Travelex make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, both Travelex policies provide an option if you cannot contact Travelex: Travelex will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

Seven Corners offers a wide variety of policies. Here are the policies that are most applicable to travelers on a single international trip.

Seven Corners also offers many other types of travel insurance, including an annual multi-trip plan. You can choose coverage for trips of up to 30, 45 or 60 days when purchasing an annual multi-trip plan.

See Seven Corner's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Typically, Seven Corners won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition. However, the RoundTrip Choice plan offers a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, you must meet all of the following conditions:

• You buy this plan within 20 days of making your initial trip payment or deposit.
• You or your travel companion are medically able and not disabled from travel when you pay for this plan or upgrade your plan.
• You update the coverage to include the additional cost of subsequent travel arrangements within 15 days of paying your travel supplier for them.
• Seven Corners offers the ability to purchase optional sports and golf equipment coverage. If purchased, this extra insurance will reimburse you for the cost of renting sports or golf equipment if yours is lost, stolen, damaged or delayed by a common carrier for six or more hours. However, Seven Corners must authorize the expenses in advance.
• You can add cancel for any reason coverage or trip interruption for any reason coverage to RoundTrip plans. Although some other providers offer cancel for any reason coverage, trip interruption for any reason coverage is less common.
• Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice policy offers a political or security evacuation benefit that will transport you to the nearest safe place or your residence under specific conditions. You can also add optional event ticket registration fee protection to the RoundTrip Choice policy.

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

World Nomads is popular with younger, active travelers because of its flexibility and adventure-activities coverage on the Explorer plan. Unlike many policies offered by other providers, you don't need to estimate prepaid costs when purchasing the insurance to have access to trip interruption and cancellation insurance.

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

World Nomads has a page dedicated to coronavirus coverage , so be sure to view it before buying a policy.

World Nomads won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition (except emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains) that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. Unlike many other providers, World Nomads doesn't offer a waiver.

• World Nomads' policies cover more adventure sports than most providers, so activities such as bungee jumping are included. The Explorer policy covers almost any adventure sport, including skydiving, stunt flying and caving. So, if you partake in adventure sports while traveling, the Explorer policy may be a good fit.
• World Nomads' policies provide nonmedical evacuation coverage for transportation expenses if there is civil or political unrest in the country you are visiting. The coverage may also transport you home if there is an eligible natural disaster or a government expels you.

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

This guide details the policies of eight providers with the information available at the time of publication. There are many options when it comes to travel insurance, though. To compare different policies quickly, you can use a travel insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to search. Just note that these search engines won't show every policy and every provider, and you should still research the provided policies to ensure the coverage fits your trip and needs.

You can also purchase a plan through various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA or Costco. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so if you are a member of any of these associations, you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for your trip.

Related: Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Is travel insurance worth getting?

Whether you should purchase travel insurance is a personal decision. Suppose you use a credit card that provides travel insurance for most of your expenses and have medical insurance that provides adequate coverage abroad. In that case, you may be covered enough on most trips to forgo purchasing travel insurance.

However, suppose your medical insurance won't cover you at your destination and you can't comfortably cover a sizable medical evacuation bill or last-minute flight home . In that case, you should consider purchasing travel insurance. If you travel frequently, buying an annual multi-trip policy may be worth it.

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

There are various aspects to keep in mind in the age of COVID-19. Consider booking travel plans that are fully refundable or have modest change or cancellation fees so you don't need to worry about whether your policy will cover trip cancellation. This is important since many standard comprehensive insurance policies won't reimburse your insured expenses in the event of cancellation if it's related to the fear of traveling due to COVID-19.

However, if you book a nonrefundable trip and want to maintain the ability to get reimbursed (up to 75% of your insured costs) if you choose to cancel, you should consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance policy and then adding optional cancel for any reason protection. Just note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

Providers will often require CFAR purchasers insure the entire dollar amount of their travels to receive the coverage. Also, many CFAR policies mandate that you must cancel your plans and notify all travel suppliers at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

Likewise, if your primary health insurance won't cover you while on your trip, it's essential to consider whether medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment are covered. You may also want to consider a MedJet medical transport membership if your trip is to a covered destination for coronavirus-related evacuation.

Ultimately, the best pandemic travel insurance policy will depend on your trip details, travel concerns and your willingness to self-insure. Just be sure to thoroughly read and understand any terms or exclusions before purchasing.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or rely on the protections offered by select credit cards, you may have access to the following types of coverage:

• Baggage delay protection may reimburse for essential items and clothing when a common carrier (such as an airline) fails to deliver your checked bag within a set time of your arrival at a destination. Typically, you may be reimbursed up to a particular amount per incident or per day.
• Lost/damaged baggage protection may provide reimbursement to replace lost or damaged luggage and items inside that luggage. However, valuables and electronics usually have a relatively low maximum benefit.
• Trip delay reimbursement may provide reimbursement for necessary items, food, lodging and sometimes transportation when you're delayed for a substantial time while traveling on a common carrier such as an airline. This insurance may be beneficial if weather issues (or other covered reasons for which the airline usually won't provide compensation) delay you.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection may provide reimbursement if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as a death in your family or jury duty.
• Medical evacuation insurance can arrange and pay for medical evacuation if deemed necessary by the insurance provider and a medical professional. This coverage can be particularly valuable if you're traveling to a region with subpar medical facilities.
• Travel accident insurance may provide a payment to you or your beneficiary in the case of your death or dismemberment.
• Emergency medical insurance may provide payment or reimburse you if you must seek medical care while traveling. Some plans only cover emergency medical care, but some also cover other types of medical care. You may need to pay a deductible or copay.
• Rental car coverage may provide a collision damage waiver when renting a car. This waiver may reimburse for collision damage or theft up to a set amount. Some policies also cover loss-of-use charges assessed by the rental company and towing charges to take the vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility. You generally need to decline the rental company's collision damage waiver or similar provision to be covered.

Should I buy travel health insurance?

If you purchase travel with credit cards that provide various trip protections, you may not see much need for additional travel insurance. However, you may still wonder whether you should buy travel medical insurance.

If your primary health insurance covers you on your trip, you may not need travel health insurance. Your domestic policy may not cover you outside the U.S., though, so it's worth calling the number on your health insurance card if you have coverage questions. If your primary health insurance wouldn't cover you, it's likely worth purchasing travel medical insurance. After all, as you can see above, travel medical insurance is often very modestly priced.

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance costs depend on various factors, including the provider, the type of coverage, your trip cost, your destination, your age, your residency and how many travelers you want to insure. That said, a standard travel insurance plan will generally set you back somewhere between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. However, this can get lower for more basic protections or become even higher if you include add-ons like cancel for any reason protection.

The best way to determine how much travel insurance will cost is to price out your trip with a few providers discussed in the guide. Or, visit an insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to quickly compare options across multiple providers.

When and how to get travel insurance

For the most robust selection of available travel insurance benefits — including time-sensitive add-ons like CFAR protection and waivers of preexisting conditions for eligible travelers — you should ideally purchase travel insurance on the same day you make your first payment toward your trip.

However, many plans may still offer a preexisting conditions waiver for those who qualify if you buy your travel insurance within 14 to 21 days of your first trip expense or deposit (this time frame may vary by provider). If you don't need a preexisting conditions waiver or aren't interested in CFAR coverage, you can purchase travel insurance once your departure date nears.

You must purchase coverage before it's needed. Some travel medical plans are available for purchase after you have departed, but comprehensive plans that include medical coverage must be purchased before departing.

Additionally, you can't buy any medical coverage once you require medical attention. The same applies to all travel insurance coverage. Once you recognize the need, it's too late to protect your trip.

Once you've shopped around and decided upon the best travel insurance plan for your trip, you should be able to complete your purchase online. You'll usually be able to download your insurance card and the complete policy shortly after the transaction is complete.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Bottom line

Not all travel insurance policies and providers are equal. Before buying a plan, read and understand the policy documents. By doing so, you can choose a plan that's appropriate for you and your trip — including the features that matter most to you.

For example, if you plan to go skiing or rock climbing, make sure the policy you buy doesn't contain exclusions for these activities. Likewise, if you're making two back-to-back trips during which you'll be returning home for a short time in between, be sure the plan doesn't terminate coverage at the end of your first trip.

If you're looking to cover a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition, select a policy with a preexisting condition waiver and fulfill the requirements for the waiver. After all, buying insurance won't help if your policy doesn't cover your losses.

Disclaimer : This information is provided by IMT Services, LLC ( InsureMyTrip.com ), a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 5119217) and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. IMT's services are only available in states where it is licensed to do business and the products provided through InsureMyTrip.com may not be available in all states. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not create or modify any insurance policy terms in any way. For more information, please visit www.insuremytrip.com .

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in August 2024

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. 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 .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

If you don't have sufficient travel insurance coverage via your credit card , you can supplement your policies with third-party plans.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers.

Top credit cards with travel insurance

Methodology

Best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

» Jump to the best cards with travel insurance

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Offers direct billing.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

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On a similar note...

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance

Designed for travelers abroad and offers medical insurance when traveling outside your home country.

Why should I consider international travel medical insurance?

When you’re traveling far from home, international travel medical insurance offers medical benefits, medical evacuation coverage, and non-insurance-related travel assistance.

Travel medical insurance can help you:

Pay for eligible medical expenses. Cover expenses for trip Interruption. Protect your baggage.

Seven Corners Assist,* our international travel assistance service, can:

Provide 24/7 non-insurance multilingual assistance to help you find appropriate medical care near you. Arrange and pay for emergency medical transportation and evacuation to the nearest medical facility that can provide adequate treatment. Provide access to the Seven Corners' international network of medical providers.

*These services are not provided by Crum & Forster, SPC.

Here are real life examples of Evacuation and Repatriation Services provided by Seven Corners Assist to help our customers.

How We Helped Alysan Get Back Home from Ghana

Alysan was studying abroad in Ghana and contracted Malaria during her trip. Here's how we helped her get back home safely.

Felipe and Daniel were traveling South East Asia for a few months

Felipe became very ill, and Seven Corners Assist evacuated him from Myanmar to Thailand, so he could receive appropriate medical care.

Makenzie's Travel Story

What happens if you are traveling alone and become sick? Learn how Seven Corners Assist arranged for Makenzie’s mom to travel to her bedside when she became sick while traveling abroad.

Seven Corners Travel Insurance

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Benefits on this web page are described on a general basis only.  There are certain restrictions, exclusions and limitations that apply to all insurance coverages under the Plans, including an exclusion for pre-existing conditions.  Full coverage terms and details, including insurance limitations and exclusions, are contained in the Plan Document. Plan benefits, limits and provisions may or may not be available in all jurisdictions or may vary based on residence. If there is any difference between this website and your plan document, the provisions of the plan document will prevail. Benefits and plan costs are subject to change.

The travel protection plans consist of Insurance Benefits and Non-Insurance Travel Assistance Services. Individuals looking to obtain additional information regarding the features and pricing of each travel plan component, please contact Seven Corners.

NON-U.S. RESIDENTS Insurance Benefits are underwritten by Crum & Forster, SPC.

Non-Insurance Travel Assistance Services: These are not insurance benefits. The 24-hour non-insurance assistance services are provided by Seven Corners, Inc.

Plan Administrator: Claims are administered by Seven Corners, Inc.

Limitations, exclusions and disclaimers from Crum & Forster, SPC.

U.S. RESIDENTS Insurance Benefits are Underwritten by: United States Fire Insurance Company, 5 Christopher Way, 2nd Floor, Eatontown, NJ 07724 under Policy Form Series T7000 et.al., T210 et. al. and TP-401 et. al.

Non-Insurance Travel Assistance Services: These are not insurance benefits underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company. The 24-hour non-insurance assistance services are provided by Seven Corners, Inc.

Important information from the  United States Fire Insurance Company

20240507-3453924

A Practical Guide to Buying Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

What is travel insurance?

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

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

Where do you get travel insurance?

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

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

What does travel insurance cover?

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

Trip cancellation and interruption

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

Trip delays and missed connections

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

Baggage and personal effects

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

Emergency medical and dental care

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

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

Emergency medical evacuation

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

Accidental death and dismemberment and repatriation

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

Concierge and 24/7 service

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

Common travel insurance add-ons to consider

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

Upgrade lost luggage, trip delay, and cancellation amounts

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

Additional coverage for adventure and high-risk travel

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

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

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance

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

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

Does travel insurance cover pandemics?

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

What are the best travel insurance policies?

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

Best for: Older travelers and those with preexisting conditions.

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

Get a quote: allianztravelinsurance.com

Best for: Medical coverage only

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

Get a quote: geobluetravelinsurance.com

Best for: Traveling with kids

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

Get a quote: travelexinsurance.com

How much does travel insurance cost?

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

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

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

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

How do I buy travel insurance?

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

Comparison sites to buy travel insurance include:

• Travelinsurance.com
• SquareMouth
• Insuremytrip

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

When to buy travel insurance

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

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

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

What does your existing insurance cover while traveling?

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

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

Tips for filing claims and getting reimbursed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Essential Travel Insurance: Protection & Peace of Mind

When planning a big trip, one of the critical decisions you face is whether to purchase travel insurance. It's a scenario many travelers encounter: you've booked your flights, reserved accommodations, and outlined your itinerary, but then comes the question, "Is travel insurance worth it?" This dilemma often arises from a lack of understanding of what travel insurance covers and the potential risks of traveling without it. The decision to invest in travel insurance is not just about adding another item to your travel checklist; it's about safeguarding your trip against unforeseen events.

Protecting Your Vacation Investment

Travel insurance plays a vital role in protecting the financial investment you make in your trips. Consider this scenario: you've spent $7,000 on a dream Mediterranean cruise for your 25th wedding anniversary. Everything is set, but the day before you're scheduled to depart, a family emergency arises your mother has a serious fall and is hospitalized. Despite your situation, the cruise line's policy is clear: no refunds for cancellations within 14 days of departure.

In such cases, travel insurance becomes invaluable. With trip cancellation benefits, you can receive reimbursement for prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs for covered reasons, which often include serious illness or injury of a family member. This protection ensures that your significant investment isn't lost due to circumstances beyond your control.

Suggested read: Travel Insurance with Benefits for International Travel

Medical Emergencies Overseas

Another critical aspect of travel insurance is coverage for medical emergencies while abroad. The cost of medical care overseas can be exorbitantly high, and more importantly, U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, typically do not provide coverage outside the United States. Imagine being on a driving tour in a foreign country and getting involved in a serious accident. Upon reaching the hospital, you find that your U.S. health insurance card is of no use, and you're required to pay upfront for treatment. In such situations, medical bills can rapidly escalate, and if medical evacuation is necessary, costs can soar even higher, sometimes exceeding $200,000.

Travel insurance with emergency medical benefits is designed to cover these expenses. It can pay for losses due to covered medical and dental emergencies that occur during your trip. Moreover, emergency medical transportation benefits can cover medically necessary transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility, as well as the cost of getting you home following a covered injury or illness. This aspect of travel insurance is not just about financial protection; it's also about having access to necessary assistance and support during critical times.

Travel insurance is more than just an optional add-on; it's a crucial component of travel planning. It protects your vacation investment from unexpected cancellations and provides essential coverage for medical emergencies overseas. When asking, "Is travel insurance worth it?" consider the peace of mind and security it offers, making it an indispensable part of your travel preparations.

Dealing with Minor Mishaps

Traveling, while exciting, often comes with its share of minor inconveniences and mishaps. These can range from travel delays due to weather or mechanical issues to baggage delays at the airport. While these incidents may seem minor, they can disrupt your travel plans and lead to unexpected expenses. This is where travel insurance becomes a valuable asset. It helps manage these situations by covering additional accommodation and travel expenses incurred due to delays.

For instance, if your flight is significantly delayed, travel insurance can cover the cost of an unplanned hotel stay or meals. Similarly, if your baggage is delayed, you can be reimbursed for essential items you need to purchase while waiting for your luggage. These benefits ensure that minor setbacks don't turn into major financial burdens, allowing you to continue your journey with peace of mind.

Recommendation by the U.S. Department of State

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends travel insurance, especially policies that include emergency medical benefits, emergency transportation benefits, and coverage for other unexpected expenses. This advice stems from the fact that many travelers are unaware that their health insurance may not provide coverage overseas. In the event of a medical emergency, the costs can be staggering, and the logistical challenges of arranging emergency transportation can be overwhelming.

Travel insurance that includes these benefits not only provides financial protection but also ensures that travelers have access to necessary medical care and transportation in emergencies. This recommendation underscores the importance of being adequately insured when traveling abroad.

Affordability and Accessibility of Travel Insurance

One common misconception about travel insurance is that it's expensive and complicated to obtain. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Travel insurance is generally affordable and offers various options to suit different budgets and travel needs. The cost of a policy is often a small fraction of the total trip cost but can save you from significant financial losses.

Additionally, the process of finding and comparing travel insurance plans has become more accessible than ever. Many providers offer online platforms where you can quickly compare different plans, understand coverage details, and choose a policy that best fits your travel itinerary and budget. 

This ease of access and affordability makes travel insurance a practical choice for all types of travelers.

In conclusion, travel insurance is an essential component of trip planning. It offers protection from both minor inconveniences and major emergencies, ensuring that your travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. The U.S. Department of State's recommendation to carry travel insurance, particularly for medical and transportation coverage, highlights its importance for international travel.

Furthermore, the affordability and accessibility of travel insurance make it a practical choice for safeguarding your travel investment and well-being. As you plan your next adventure, consider travel insurance not as an optional extra but as a crucial tool for a successful and enjoyable journey.

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Top 10 Digital Nomad Travel Insurance Plans (2024)

A re you a digital nomad looking for the best travel insurance at the best price? You’re in the right place. I’ve been a digital nomad for over a year. I know how important travel insurance is.

I also know that, while this isn’t something to skimp on, you also don’t want to overpay. It’s a tricky balance.

I’m a huge over-planner and I’ve thoroughly researched travel insurance. Every year when my policy expires, I re-check the options to make sure I’ve got the best plan.

Don’t have time to read all this and just want the bottom line? My number one favorite travel insurance is SafetyWing . They have comprehensive coverage and consistently high ratings.

I’ve had to use my travel insurance more than once. The last time was when my dad was very sick in the hospital and I had to fly to California, losing out on a lot of pre-paid, nonrefundable flights and accommodations.

I’d like to say that story had a happy ending. While it did have a good ending for my dad (he’s recovered and doing great!), I had the wrong type of plan and lost $3,000. My insurance was essentially worthless for what I needed.

I don’t want anyone to have that same experience. I’ve rounded up the 10 best plans so you can choose the one that’s right for you. Learn from my mistakes so you don’t throw your money away.

Pro tip: Bookmark this site for next year. I update it yearly so it always contains the most up-to-date info.

My Top 3 Picks: Digital Nomad Travel Insurance

#1 TOP PICK

No permanent residency required

Comprehensive coverage

Visitors Coverage 98% satisfaction rating

Wide range of coverage options

AIG Travel Guard Variety of plans

Annual plan options

What is Digital Nomad Travel Insurance?

Digital nomad travel insurance is tailored to meet the unique challenges and risks that come with the nomadic lifestyle.

Unlike regular travel insurance, these specialized plans often offer comprehensive medical coverage. This includes not just emergency care but also routine check-ups, dental services, and even mental health support.

But it’s not just about health. These plans also consider the flexibility digital nomads need. Many offer the option to extend your coverage if you decide to stay longer in a destination or even to buy coverage while you’re already abroad.

Some even cover adventurous activities, from scuba diving to mountain climbing, because let’s face it, a digital nomad’s life is never just 9 to 5.

So, while it might not be as thrilling as booking your next one-way ticket, securing the right travel insurance is a must for any digital nomad. It’s not just another item on your to-do list; it’s peace of mind, and that’s priceless.

What Should I Look For in Digital Nomad Insurance?

Okay, you know digital nomad insurance is a must-have. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one?

Here’s a breakdown of what you should be looking for in a digital nomad insurance plan:

Worldwide Coverage

You’re a global citizen, and your insurance should be too. Make sure the plan you choose offers worldwide coverage, so you’re protected no matter where your travels take you.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Got a chronic condition or a recurring medical issue? You’ll want a plan that covers pre-existing conditions, so you’re not left in a lurch when you need medical care.

Emergency Assistance

Look for a plan that offers 24/7 emergency assistance. Whether it’s a medical emergency or legal trouble, you want to know there’s a lifeline you can call anytime, anywhere.

Emergency Medical Insurance

Accidents happen, and when they do, you’ll want robust emergency medical coverage. This should include hospital stays, surgeries, and even medical evacuation if needed.

Emergency Evacuation

Speaking of evacuation, make sure your plan covers the cost of getting you to the nearest medical facility in case of an emergency. Trust me, you don’t want to foot that bill yourself.

Trip Cancellations and Delays

Flights get canceled. Plans change. Look for a policy that will reimburse you for any pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses if you have to cancel or delay your trip for a covered reason.

Baggage Loss

Losing your luggage is a bummer. Choose a plan that offers coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage to save yourself a headache later.

Equipment Protection

As a digital nomad, your laptop and other gadgets are your lifeline. Some plans offer specialized coverage for electronic equipment, so check if that’s an option.

Reasonable Prices

Budget is a big deal when you’re living the nomad life. Compare prices and make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. But remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

Quick Insurance Claim Process

Last but not least, check out reviews to see how quickly and easily you can file a claim. The last thing you want during a crisis is a complicated, drawn-out claims process.

Top 10 Digital Nomad Travel Insurance Plans

Let’s jump into the best travel plans for digital nomads. One of these will surely meet all your needs. Many of them also include health insurance for nomads .

1. SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Overview of safetywing.

SafetyWing is a remote working company that specializes in providing primary health insurance plans for digital nomads and long-term travelers.

If you’ve ditched your health insurance back home to live the nomad life, this is a company you’ll want to know about.

They’re not just a startup; they’re a subsidiary of Tokio Marine, a global insurance giant. So, you’re in safe hands. Their offerings go beyond just medical coverage, extending to non-medical evacuation, trip interruption, and even baggage claims.

SafetyWing aims to build a country-independent social safety net for freelancers and digital nomads. They’ve even expanded their product line to include a complete worldwide primary health insurance called Remote Health.

Safety Wing Pros & Cons

• No Permanent Residency Required : You can get SafetyWing insurance without being a permanent resident of any country.
• Affordable for Younger Travelers : If you’re under 39, the plans are particularly cost-effective.
• Comprehensive Coverage : Apart from medical benefits, you get coverage for trip interruption, lost luggage, and even the return of minor children and pets.
• Flexible Payment : You have the option to pay monthly, making it easier on your wallet.
• Home Country Coverage : Visiting your home country for up to 30 days? You’re still covered, except if you’re a U.S. citizen.
• Private Healthcare : You can choose private doctors and hospitals, giving you quality options.
• Family-Friendly : One child per adult and two children under 10 per family can also be included free of charge.
• Global Reach : Coverage in over 175 countries, so your wanderlust has almost no limits.
• High-Risk Destinations : Some plans even cover high-risk destinations and activities.
• Activity Limitations : Certain activities like mountain climbing, scuba diving, and ice hockey aren’t covered.
• Coverage Cap : The total coverage maxes out at $250,000.
• License Requirements : You need an international scooter license for coverage in case of scooter or motorbike accidents.
• Exclusions : Pre-existing conditions and mental health disorders are not covered.
• Claims Processing : The time it takes to process claims can be long, sometimes stretching into weeks or months.
• U.S. Limitations : While there is some U.S. coverage, it doesn’t meet the Affordable Care Act requirements.

2. Visitors Coverage

Overview of visitors coverage.

Visitors Coverage is a global travel insurance company with its fingers in many pies. Operating in 176 countries, this company is all about giving you options.

Whether you’re a short-term visitor to the U.S., an international traveler, or even a new immigrant, they’ve got a plan for you. They even offer specialized plans like Europe/Schengen Insurance and Immigrant/Green Card Insurance.

Their website is a breeze to navigate, and getting a quote is as simple as clicking a button and answering a few questions. Plus, they’re big on sustainability, partnering with One Tree Planted to contribute to global reforestation.

Visitors Coverage Pros & Cons

• User-Friendly Website : Navigating through their website is a walk in the park. They’ve got separate tabs for insurance plans, travel resources, and contact details.
• Wide Range of Products : From group insurance to trip cancellation and expat health coverage, they’ve got a smorgasbord of options.
• High Customer Satisfaction : With a 98% satisfaction rating and over a million satisfied customers, they’re doing something right.
• COVID-19 Coverage : Having COVID-19 coverage is always a big plus.
• Excellent Customer Service : If you’ve got questions, their customer service staff has the answers. They’re both helpful and knowledgeable.
• Unclear Claim Processing Time : The website doesn’t provide information on how long it takes to process claims, which could be a concern for some travelers.

If you’re looking for an insurance company that offers a wide range of products and has a solid reputation, Visitors Coverage could be a great fit.

I have personally used Visitors Coverage and found their plans to be great and affordable. I haven’t had to file a claim with them so I can’t speak to their processing, but I’d use them again.

3. AIG Travel Guard

Overview of aig travel guard.

AIG Travel Guard is a global insurance company catering to a diverse clientele, including digital nomads and remote workers.

They offer a range of plans, such as the Pack N’ Go plan for last-minute travelers and an annual travel plan for frequent flyers. They also have three comprehensive packages: Deluxe, Preferred, and Essential.

These plans cover everything from trip interruption and baggage protection to emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains.

AIG Travel Guard Pros & Cons

• Variety of Plans : Whether you’re a digital nomad, a business traveler, or someone who loves spontaneous trips, Travel Guard has a plan tailored for you.
• User-Friendly Website : Navigating through their offerings is a breeze, thanks to their well-designed website.
• Easy Subscription : Getting yourself insured is straightforward and hassle-free.
• COVID-19 Coverage : They’ve adapted to the times by including COVID-19 coverage in their plans.
• Annual Plan Option : For those who travel multiple times a year, the annual plan offers essential coverage for each trip, capped at 90 days per trip.
• Limited Global Availability : Despite being a global insurance company, not all their plans are available worldwide.
• 90-Day Cap on Annual Plan : The annual plan is not ideal for long-term travelers as each trip is limited to 90 days.
• Exclusions : The plans come with a list of exclusions, including acts of war and being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Travel Guard clearly focuses on providing a variety of plans to suit different travel needs. They also emphasize customer service and have received high ratings from their user base.

So, if you’re a digital nomad or someone who travels frequently for work or leisure, Travel Guard is worth considering. Just make sure to read the fine print and understand the limitations of each plan.

4. Travelex Insurance Services

Overview of travelex.

Travelex Insurance is a travel insurance provider that caters to a wide range of travelers, including digital nomads and remote workers . They offer various plans to suit different travel needs.

The Basic plan covers essential travel protections, while the Travel Select plan is more comprehensive and customizable. They even have a Flight Insurance plan for those who are primarily concerned with flight-related issues.

Travelex Pros & Cons

• COVID-19 Coverage : Travelex offers coverage for COVID-19-related trip cancellations, interruptions, and emergency medical situations.
• Comprehensive Coverage : From trip cancellations and interruptions to emergency medical and evacuation, Travelex has got you covered.
• 24/7 Assistance : Their travel concierge service is available around the clock to assist you with anything from finding hidden gems to dealing with legal issues.
• High Claim Approval : With a 98% claim approval rate, filing an insurance claim with Travelex is not only easy but also quicker than the industry average.
• Long-Term Coverage : The Travel Select plan covers trips up to 364 days and even offers coverage for pre-existing conditions in certain cases.
• Limited COVID-19 Coverage : While they do offer COVID-19 coverage, it may not be as extensive as some travelers would like.
• Additional Costs : Basic services come with an extra charge unless included in your chosen plan.
• High Cost for Comprehensive Plans : The Travel Select plan, while comprehensive, can be pricey due to its extensive coverage and add-ons.

It’s clear Travelex focuses on providing comprehensive insurance options for all types of travelers. They offer a variety of plans and add-ons, making it a flexible choice for those looking for specific types of coverage.

However, the cost can add up quickly if you opt for their more comprehensive plans with additional features. So, if you’re a digital nomad or frequent traveler, Travelex is worth considering, but make sure to weigh the costs and benefits carefully.

5. IMG Global

Overview of img global.

IMG Global is a one-stop shop for all your travel insurance needs, especially if you’re a digital nomad.

IMG Global offers a range of travel insurance packages designed to meet the diverse needs of digital nomads, expats, and adventurous travelers.

Their packages include Global Medical Insurance, which is a medical-only plan, and iTravelInsured Travel Insurance, tailored for those who are active and adventurous.

They also offer specialized plans like the Global Employer Option and International Marine Medical Insurance.

IMG Global Pros & Cons

• Affordable Renewals : Extending your policy with IMG is generally cheaper compared to other insurers.
• Adventure-Friendly : If you’re into extreme sports or adventurous activities, IMG has you covered, even providing a $10,000 search and rescue team if you get lost.
• High Medical Coverage : With up to $500,000 in emergency medical coverage and $1 million for medical evacuation, you’re in good hands.
• No Extra Fee for Cancellation : Their plans include “cancel for any reason” or “interruption for any reason” coverage without additional costs.
• Excellent Customer Service : Customer service is a strong suit for IMG, making your experience smoother.
• Waiting Period : There’s a waiting time before you can submit a claim for lost baggage or trip cancellation, which can be inconvenient.
• Not Primary Coverage : Their health coverage is secondary, requiring you to have primary coverage in your home country .
• Limited Home Country Return : U.S. citizens can’t return home while the policy is active, and other nationals are restricted to a 14-day visit.
• Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses : They generally don’t directly bill medical providers, so you’ll have to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement.
• Coverage Based on Trip Cost : The extent of your coverage is determined by your planned trip expenditure.

IMG Global offers a variety of plans that can be tailored to your specific needs, but it’s essential to read the fine print and understand the limitations.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a cautious traveler, IMG has something for everyone, but make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

6. Allianz Global Assistance

Overview of allianz.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a well-established player in the travel insurance game. With a variety of plans tailored to different types of travelers, they’ve got something for everyone.

Whether you’re a digital nomad or a frequent business traveler, Allianz offers packages that can be a good fit for your needs.

However, it’s essential to note that their plans are more suited for those who take multiple short trips rather than extended overseas stays.

Allianz Pros & Cons

• Emergency Evacuation Coverage : The Allianz Travel Easy – Oversea Annual plan offers up to $1 million in emergency evacuation, giving you peace of mind when you’re far from home.
• Baggage and Travel Delay : With up to $5,000 for baggage loss or damage and $2,000 for travel delays, you’re well covered for those unexpected hiccups.
• Pre-Existing Medical Condition Coverage : Unlike some other providers, Allianz offers coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, which can be a lifesaver for many travelers.
• Multi-Trip Policy : If you’re someone who takes multiple trips a year, Allianz’s annual or multi-trip plans can be more cost-effective than buying separate policies for each journey.
• Limited Flexibility : Allianz’s packages are fixed, meaning you can’t customize them to fit your unique needs.
• Pricey Plans : While they offer a range of services, their plans are on the higher end of the price spectrum. This is especially true for older travelers .
• Pre-Trip Purchase Required : You have to buy the insurance before you embark on your trip, which might not be convenient for everyone.
• No COVID-19 Coverage : In the current global situation, the lack of medical emergency coverage related to COVID-19 can be a significant drawback.

Allianz offers robust coverage options but comes with its own set of limitations. Make sure to weigh these pros and cons carefully to decide if Allianz is the right travel insurance provider for you.

7. World Nomads Travel Insurance

Overview of world nomads insurance.

World Nomads is a travel insurance provider that’s been in the game since 2002, specializing in coverage for the adventurous and the daring.

With over two decades of experience, they offer policies tailored to individuals who aren’t just tourists but explorers at heart.

Whether you’re a U.S. citizen or hail from another corner of the globe, World Nomads has got you covered.

World Nomads Pros & Cons

• 24/7 Emergency Support : If you find yourself in a pinch, their multi-lingual team is available around the clock to connect you with the medical services and transportation you need.
• Adventure Activity Coverage : World Nomads doesn’t shy away from the extreme. They offer coverage for over 200 adventure activities, making them a go-to choice for thrill-seekers.
• Flexibility On-The-Go : Plans change, and World Nomads gets that. You can purchase additional coverage or even make a claim online during your trip.
• Community Contributions : When you buy a policy, you also have the option to donate to community development projects. It’s a small way to make a big impact in needy destinations.
• Travel Safety Guidance : They don’t just insure you; they inform you. World Nomads offers up-to-date travel safety tips and destination guides to help you navigate your adventures.
• Country-Specific Policies : The coverage can vary depending on your country of residence, so you’ll need to be extra careful when reviewing your policy.
• No Mention of COVID-19 Coverage : In today’s travel landscape, not having specific COVID-19 coverage could be a deal-breaker for some.
• Adventure Activity Limitations : While they do cover a wide range of activities, make sure your particular brand of adventure is on their list.

World Nomads offers a robust set of features for the modern, adventurous traveler. However, it’s crucial to read the fine print and ensure that their coverage aligns with your specific needs and travel plans.

8. Insured Nomads  

Overview of insured nomads.

Insured Nomads is a travel insurance company that’s by nomads, for nomads. With founders who have lived on five continents, this company gets the unique needs of digital nomads, remote workers, and expats.

They offer a range of plans, including both travel insurance and comprehensive health insurance for those living abroad for extended periods. Whether you’re on a short-term trip or planning to live overseas, Insured Nomads has got you covered.

Insured Nomads Pros & Cons

• Global Network : With access to over a million healthcare providers and 8,000 clinics and hospitals worldwide, you’re never far from quality care.
• Telemedicine Services : Need a quick consult? Their telemedicine services have you covered, offering a modern approach to healthcare.
• Instant Reimbursement : Cash flow is king, especially when you’re abroad. Insured Nomads offers instant reimbursement, so you’re not left hanging.
• 24/7 Crisis Response : Real-time alerts and emergency assistance are available around the clock, making sure you’re always in the know and in good hands.
• Adventure Sport Option : For the adrenaline junkies, there’s an add-on for adventure sports coverage.
• Comprehensive Coverage : Their “Preferred Plus” option offers coverage up to a whopping USD 5,672,125.00.
• COVID-19 Coverage : Having COVID-19 coverage is a big plus.
• Pre-Existing Conditions : If you have any, you might face some coverage restrictions, so read the fine print carefully.
• Minimum Length : The minimum insurance length is one year, which might not suit everyone’s travel plans.
• Price Tag : While they offer comprehensive coverage, their plans are on the pricier side compared to some competitors.
• Extreme Sports Limitation : If you’re into extreme sports, you might find the coverage lacking unless you opt for the adventure sports add-on.

Insured Nomads offers a robust set of features tailored for the modern traveler but comes with a few caveats. Make sure to weigh these pros and cons to see if they’re the right fit for your globetrotting lifestyle

9. AARDY Travel Insurance

Overview of aardy travel insurance.

AARDY Travel Insurance is not your typical insurance provider; it’s a comparison platform that brings multiple insurance options to your fingertips.

It’s designed to save you time, money, and the headache of sifting through countless options. With a 5-star rating on Trustpilot and a host of reputable insurance partners, AARDY aims to make your travel insurance shopping easier.

Pros and Cons of AARDY

• User-Friendly Interface : The platform is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for even first-time users to navigate.
• Wide Range of Options : Whether you need travel medical insurance, trip cancellation coverage, or health insurance, AARDY has got you covered.
• Quality Partners : AARDY collaborates with well-known insurance companies, ensuring that you get reliable and comprehensive plans.
• Tailored Plans : The platform curates plans based on your specific needs, so you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need.
• Time-Saver : No need to scour the internet for options. AARDY brings them all to one place, saving you valuable time.
• Educational Resources : The platform offers informative articles and resources to help you make an informed decision.
• Multiple Contact Options : Unlike some platforms that offer only email support, AARDY provides a direct contact number and live chat, making customer service more accessible.
• Limited Company Choices : While AARDY does offer over 30 plans, these come from a select group of 5 or 6 leading insurance companies, which may limit your options.
• Customer Service Delays : The platform does offer a contact number, but some users have reported delays in getting through to a representative.
• Browser Compatibility Issues : Some users have noted that the website doesn’t function optimally on all internet browsers, particularly Google Chrome.

In summary, AARDY Travel Insurance offers a convenient and efficient way to compare and purchase travel insurance plans. However, be mindful of the limited range of insurance companies and potential customer service delays.

10. Integra Global

Overview of integra global.

Integra Global is a go-to for digital nomads seeking long-term, comprehensive international health insurance.

Unlike typical travel insurance that covers lost luggage or trip cancellations, Integra Global focuses solely on medical coverage. And we’re not just talking about emergency care; they also cover routine health exams, dental services, mental health, and even chronic conditions.

If you’re a digital nomad looking for something more than just emergency medical coverage, Integra Global might be your match.

Integra Global Pros & Cons

• COVID-19 Coverage : They offer coverage for COVID-19, although conditions do apply. So, make sure to read the fine print.
• Flexible Deductibles : Once you’ve paid your yearly deductible, you’re covered 100%. You can choose your deductible, ranging from around $1,000 to as high as $5,000, to fit your budget.
• Freedom to Choose Providers : Integra Global doesn’t tie you down to specific hospitals or doctors. You can get treated by any licensed medical provider.
• Pre-existing Conditions : For an additional cost, you can get coverage for pre-existing conditions. That’s a rarity in the insurance world.
• Comprehensive Medical Coverage : They offer a much higher amount of medical expenses per year compared to standard travel insurance plans.
• No Travel Benefits : If you’re looking for lost luggage or trip cancellation coverage, you’ll need to purchase separate travel insurance.
• Long-Term Commitment : Policies are available only for a year or more, so it’s not ideal for short-term travelers.
• No Direct Billing : You’ll have to pay medical providers upfront and wait for a reimbursement, which can take up to 10 days.
• Cost Considerations : While the coverage is comprehensive, remember that the pricing is for medical insurance only. It’s more like a health plan you’d have at home, including wellness visits and routine check-ups.

So, if you’re a digital nomad planning to be on the road for an extended period and want comprehensive healthcare coverage, Integra Global is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions: Digital Nomad Travel Insurance

Do digital nomads need travel insurance.

Yes, it’s highly recommended for digital nomads to have travel insurance. The lifestyle of a digital nomad involves various risks, from health emergencies to trip cancellations and equipment loss. Having specialized insurance ensures you’re covered for these unexpected events.

Do digital nomads need health insurance?

Yes, digital nomads should have health insurance for comprehensive medical coverage while abroad. Regular travel insurance often lacks extensive health benefits, so specialized digital nomad health insurance is advisable for long-term stays .

What Does Digital Nomad Travel Insurance Cover?

Digital Nomad Travel Insurance typically covers emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and baggage loss. Some plans also offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, emergency evacuation, and equipment protection.

Will airlines compensate me for lost or delayed luggage?

Airlines may offer compensation for lost or delayed luggage, but the amount and conditions vary by carrier and are often limited.

Is travel insurance worth it for international travel ?

Travel insurance is crucial for international travel. It covers unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage loss, saving you from hefty out-of-pocket expenses.

What does worldwide coverage mean?

Worldwide coverage means that your insurance policy will cover you no matter where you are in the world .

Does travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

This varies by policy. Some digital nomad travel insurance plans do cover pre-existing conditions, but there may be limitations or waiting periods. Always read the fine print and ask questions before purchasing.

What is emergency assistance?

Emergency assistance is a service provided by the insurance company that offers 24/7 support for emergencies. This could be anything from medical emergencies to legal troubles.

How does emergency medical insurance differ from regular health insurance?

Emergency medical insurance specifically covers unforeseen medical emergencies during your travels, such as accidents or sudden illnesses. Regular health insurance may not cover you outside your home country or for travel-related incidents.

What is emergency medical evacuation coverage?

This covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest medical facility in case of a medical emergency.

Final Thoughts: Digital Nomad Travel Insurance

Now that we’ve taken a deep dive into the world of digital nomad travel insurance it’s clear there are a lot of options out there.

After trying a few different travel insurance providers, my top pick is SafetyWing Insurance. They’ve consistently received high ratings and offer a variety of plans that cater to the unique needs of digital nomads like us.

From personal experience, I can tell you that having the right travel insurance is a game-changer. But here’s the kicker—you’ve got to read the fine print. I learned this the hard way.

When I first dipped my toes into the digital nomad lifestyle, I bought an annual policy thinking I was all set. What I didn’t realize was that it only covered trips up to 30 days. So, when I had to file a claim because my dad got sick, it was denied.

Why? Because I was away from home for four months. My one “trip” exceeded the 30-day limit, making my policy pretty much useless for my digital nomad lifestyle.

Yep, this was all in the policy information. It was entirely my own fault.

So, take it from someone who’s been there—make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before you hit that “purchase” button. Trust me, it’ll save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Ladies, join my free, private Facebook group, Women Over 50 Digital Nomads . It’s a safe place to connect, learn, and thrive as a digital nomad. You don’t need to be over 50 but you do need to be a woman.

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The post Top 10 Digital Nomad Travel Insurance Plans (2024) appeared first on Digital Nomad and a Dog .

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How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Average costs and how travel insurance premiums are set

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Travel insurance can protect your financial investment in a trip by offering reimbursement if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons, as well as providing emergency medical care and other benefits. Generally speaking, you can expect travel insurance to cost between 4% and 10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost. Younger travelers will usually pay less for comparable coverage than older travelers. Benefits also vary by plan, and you’ll pay more for comprehensive coverage with higher limits. 

We’ll cover the cost of travel insurance from six popular companies, the factors influencing the cost of travel insurance, and the best companies to consider. 

Key Takeaways

• Travel insurance can protect your financial investment in a trip by offering reimbursement if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons, as well as providing emergency medical care and other benefits.
• Generally speaking, you can expect travel insurance to cost between 4% and 10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost.
• Younger travelers will usually pay less for comparable coverage than older travelers.
• Benefits also vary by plan, and you’ll pay more for comprehensive coverage with higher limits. 

Compare travel insurance quotes on TravelInsurance.com .

The cost of travel insurance varies based on your age, trip cost, and the company and plan you select. To give you an idea of what you might pay for a travel insurance plan, we collected quotes for two ages and trip costs for an eight-day trip to Costa Rica booked the day of the query and departing from Florida in three months. Quotes are per traveler and do not include optional upgrades. 

Emergency medical coverage in a travel insurance policy is often secondary to your primary health insurance. This means you must first file a claim with your primary insurance company to determine how much your travel insurance policy will cover.

Other Companies to Consider

• InsureMyTrip
• World Nomads
• GeoBlue (medical only)

Factors Influencing Travel Insurance Costs

When purchasing travel insurance, your trip length may impact which policies you can get, and the timing of your purchase might impact whether preexisting medical conditions are covered—but these factors don’t typically impact your premium. Your destination also doesn’t influence your premium. Costa Rica travel insurance will cost the same as travel insurance for a trip to Europe, provided all other factors are equal. Instead, the cost of travel insurance is based on the following factors. 

Travel insurance is more expensive for people who are older since they’re at a greater risk of having medical problems. Travel insurance companies charge a higher premium to account for that risk. However, even if you’re traveling in retirement, you probably can find low-cost travel insurance that meets your needs. 

Premiums are also calculated based on your total trip cost. Since it costs more to reimburse a $10,000 canceled trip than a $1,000 trip, insurance companies charge higher premiums for more expensive trips. 

The higher your coverage limits and the more benefits you add (e.g., cancel for any reason , adventure sports coverage, pet medical), the more expensive your premium will be. Companies often present a selection of plans at different tiers or benefit levels. 

Top Travel Insurance Companies

• Travelex : Travelex offers plans with trip interruption coverage of up to 150% and emergency evacuation coverage of up to $500,000. Optional upgrades include adventure sports coverage, cancel-for-any-reason coverage , pet medical, pet return, and additional medical coverage of $50,000 for medical expenses and $500,000 of medical evacuation coverage. Travelex policies are underwritten by two reliable companies, Berkshire Hathaway and Zurich Insurance Group, which earn an A++ (Superior) and A+ (Superior) AM Best financial-strength rating, respectively.
• Allianz Travel Insurance : Allianz offers a variety of single and multi-trip plans, and you can opt to buy medical coverage or travel cancellation coverage separately. The company offers high coverage limits, and most plans include epidemic coverage for COVID-19. For a single trip, Allianz offers up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and up to $250,000 for emergency medical transportation. Cancel anytime coverage and rental car coverage are available as optional upgrades. Also, the two underwriters for Allianz, Jefferson Insurance Company and BCS Insurance Company, earned financial strength ratings of A+ (Superior) and A- (Excellent) from AM Best.
• HTH Travel Insurance : HTH offers short and long-term medical plans along with full trip protection plans. Plans offer high medical coverage limits, with at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation. The company reimburses up to 200% of the trip cost due to interruption. All plans also include at least $500 in trip-delay coverage and $250 in missed-connection coverage. Plans are underwritten by Nationwide, which has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. Also, more than 90% of customers on travel insurance marketplace InsureMyTrip recommend the coverage.  
• Nationwide : Nationwide offers single- and multi-trip plans along with a package designed for cruises. Plans are comprehensive, covering at least $75,000 in emergency medical and $250,000 for medical evacuation coverage, as well as reimbursement for up to 125% of the trip cost due to interruption, depending on the plan. Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) and rental car coverage are available as add-ons, and COVID-19 diagnosis may be covered as part of your trip-cancellation coverage. Nationwide has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating with AM Best.
• Seven Corners : Seven Corners’ offerings include travel medical, trip insurance, and annual plans. Trip insurance plans offer at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $250,000 for emergency medical evacuation. However, the basic plan doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. Add-ons include rental car coverage and optional cancel-for-any-reason and interrupt-for-any-reason coverage. COVID-19 diagnoses are treated the same as other illnesses that trigger coverage. Trip interruption and cancellation policies are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance (USFI), which has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. Travel medical policies are underwritten by USFI if you live in Colorado, Maryland, New York, and South Dakota, and either Lloyd’s of London or Crum & Forster SPC if you live in other states.
• Travel Guard by AIG : Travel Guard offers some of the cheapest premiums we could find, especially for young people, but medical limits on the basic plan may not be sufficient. Trip insurance plans offer at least $15,000 in emergency medical coverage and $150,000 for emergency medical evacuation. However, you may need to purchase an exclusion waiver to get coverage for preexisting medical conditions. COVID-19 is treated like other illnesses under the plan. The company offers few upgrades, but rental car coverage is available. AIG has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating with AM Best.

How To Save Money on Travel Insurance Costs

• Don’t pay for coverage you don’t need : Check what’s covered by your credit card, health insurance, homeowners insurance, and, in some cases, car insurance, and try to get a policy that fills in the gaps.
• Compare premiums across companies : While the cheapest plan isn’t necessarily the best, some companies may offer better rates than others for the same coverage. For example, some companies are more affordable for older travelers. It’s a good idea to compare quotes for the coverage you need. 
• Consider an annual plan : If you travel frequently, you may save money by purchasing an annual plan. But you should compare a plan’s benefits and make sure you’re getting more bang for your buck vs. a trip-based plan. Also, keep in mind that annual plans may not be available in all states. 
• Avoid cancel-for-any-reason coverage if possible : You might think you can rest easier with cancel-for-any-reason coverage, but these policies typically cost significantly more and often provide inferior coverage. You should avoid this coverage type unless it’s necessary for your trip. 

How To Choose the Best Travel Insurance

Decide which coverage types are important to you.

Travel insurance is a package of coverages that may include some or all of the following:

• Travel cancellation and interruption : Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or interrupted for certain reasons, like an injury or unforeseen natural disaster
• Travel medical coverage : Provides temporary health insurance if you become sick or injured while traveling
• Emergency medical evacuation : Pays to evacuate you to the closest adequate medical facility if necessary
• Accidental death & dismemberment : Pays a sum to you if you lose a limb or to your beneficiaries if you die in an accident
• Baggage loss or damage : Reimburses you for lost or damaged baggage and personal items
• Cancel-for-any-reason coverage : Allows you to cancel in any circumstance and receive partial reimbursement, but it’s more costly. 

Some travel insurance packages may also include extras like car rental coverage, baggage delay, pet medical, and missed connection coverage. Most travel insurance plans also include some form of travel assistance. Decide which coverages you want, then check to see what’s already covered by your credit card and your existing insurance policies before purchasing a travel insurance plan. 

Evaluate Company Ratings

In the process of comparing companies, you’ll want to consider more than just the price of the policy and the coverage offered. You should also check that the insurer has an A- (Excellent) financial strength grade or better from AM Best , and evaluate customer reviews from third-party companies like TrustPilot, ConsumerAffairs, and the BBB. 

Compare Premiums

Depending on your age and trip cost, some travel insurance companies may offer a lower premium than others. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes. You can collect quotes directly from each insurance company’s website, or you can use an insurance aggregator site that allows you to view quotes from a handful of companies with just one application. 

Review Policy Limits and Exclusions

When comparing premiums, look at the policy details and compare limits and exclusions. For example, some insurance companies won’t reimburse you if your trip is delayed, and some may exclude coverage for preexisting conditions. Additionally, medical coverage may exclude injuries from certain activities, like scuba diving. 

Consider Endorsements

Some insurers offer commonly excluded coverages as endorsements to your travel insurance plan for an additional premium or as an included feature in certain packages. Pay attention to what’s available if you’re looking for an extra layer of protection. For example, while travel insurance plans commonly exclude pandemics and epidemics, most plans from Allianz include an epidemic coverage endorsement that will cover cancellation, interruption, medical care, and more in the event of a COVID-19 diagnosis. 

Buy As Soon As Possible

To get coverage for preexisting conditions, you typically need to buy travel insurance soon after purchasing your trip or making a deposit on the trip. Furthermore, travel insurance typically only provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances, so if you wait until a weather event has been announced to buy coverage, that weather event may not be covered. The sooner you buy travel insurance after purchasing your trip, the fewer exclusions you’ll have to worry about. 

What Is Travel Insurance?

The term “travel insurance” typically refers to a package of coverages that helps protect against a variety of things that can go wrong before and during your trip. The best travel insurance will reimburse you for the total cost of your trip if it gets canceled or interrupted for certain reasons, like an injury or the death of a family member. It also provides temporary major medical coverage and emergency evacuation coverage should you become injured or ill while traveling. Many plans also offer additional benefits or optional endorsements, such as cancel-for-any-reason coverage.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

It’s up to you. You’ll need to weigh the risks of forgoing travel insurance against the cost of a policy. You may have sufficient coverage from a travel credit card or other insurance policies that make travel insurance coverage unnecessary. However, if you’ve purchased an expensive vacation that’s nonrefundable, or if your health insurance plan won’t cover you where you’re traveling, then travel insurance is likely worth it.

How to Get Travel Insurance

If you’re looking to buy travel insurance , a good place to start is with company reviews. Then, get travel insurance quotes to compare costs and coverage. Almost all travel insurance companies allow you to buy coverage instantly online, and it’s best to pay for the coverage as soon as possible after you book your trip.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

While coverages vary from one plan to the next, most travel insurance policies cover trip cancellation and interruption, short-term major medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and lost or damaged baggage. Most also offer additional benefits, such as cancel-for-any-reason coverage , pet medical, and adventure sports coverage.

Travel insurance can be helpful since it covers medical expenses and trip protection for cancellations and delays. Travel insurance also provides emergency medical evacuation. However, not all plans cover preexisting conditions and younger travelers tend to pay less than older travelers. Be sure to read the fine print within the plan to fully understand the coverage.

InsureMyTrip. “ How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? ”

Travelex. “ Compare Travel Insurance Plans .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Zurich Insurance Group Ltd and Its Main Rated Subsidiaries .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company and Its Affiliates .”

Allianz Travel. “ Trip Cancellation & Travel Insurance .”

Allianz Travel. " Travel Insurance and COVID-19: The Epidemic Coverage Endorsement Explained ."

Allianz Travel. " OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan ."

AM Best. “ BCS Insurance Company .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Allianz SE and Its Rated Subsidiaries .”

HTH Travel Insurance. " Benefits Schedule ."

HTH Travel Insurance. " TripProtector Economy Benefits ."

AM Best. “ AM Best Downgrades Credit Ratings of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co & Its P/C Subs; Affirms Credit Ratings of Life Affiliates .”

Insuremytrip. “ Travel Insurance Reviews HTH Worldwide .”

Nationwide. " Single-Trip Essential Plan ."

AM Best. “ United States Fire Insurance .

Seven Corners. " Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic ."

Travel Guard. " Essential Travel Insurance Plan ."

AM Best. “ United States Fire Insurance .”

Washington, D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking. “ Taking a Trip? Information About Travel Insurance You Should Know before You Hit the Road .”

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5 reasons to get travel insurance if you have health challenges

• By Mr. Digital Fingers
• Sep 10, 2024

Traveling can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but when you have health challenges, the excitement may come with additional concerns. Ensuring you’re protected with the right travel insurance is more than just a precaution — it’s an essential part of planning a safe and worry-free trip. If you’re managing a chronic illness or any health condition, travel insurance can offer peace of mind and a safety net in case things don’t go as planned. In this article, we’ll explore five critical reasons why getting travel insurance is vital for travelers facing health challenges.

1. Emergency medical coverage

One of the most important reasons to get travel insurance is the medical coverage it provides in case of an emergency. While many people assume their regular health care insurance will cover them while they’re abroad, that’s often not the case. Travel insurance steps in when your regular health care plan doesn’t, covering everything from unexpected illnesses to injuries sustained during your travels.

For individuals with pre-existing health challenges, this coverage becomes even more important. Suppose your health condition flares up while you’re miles away from home. The costs of emergency care — whether for a hospital visit, urgent care or specialized treatment — can add up quickly, especially in countries where health care is expensive. Having travel insurance with medical coverage ensures that you don’t have to choose between getting the care you need and protecting your finances.

2. Protection for trip interruptions and cancellations

Health challenges can be unpredictable, and sometimes, they may interfere with your ability to travel at the last minute. If you need to cancel your trip due to a sudden health issue or hospitalization, travel insurance can cover the non-refundable costs of your flight, accommodations and activities. Without insurance, you might find yourself paying for a trip you couldn’t take, adding financial stress to an already difficult situation.

Trip interruption coverage can also be invaluable. If you need to return home early because of a health-related emergency, this part of your travel insurance will help cover the costs of unused portions of your trip, along with the expenses of arranging last-minute travel back home. For anyone managing chronic illnesses or other health concerns, the reassurance of being able to change plans without heavy penalties can ease a lot of anxiety.

3. Access to emergency medical evacuation

In the unfortunate event of a serious medical emergency while traveling, the need for specialized care or a transfer to a different medical facility may arise. In these cases, emergency medical evacuation can be critical, and without travel insurance, the costs can be astronomical. For those with existing health issues, having access to medical evacuation coverage could be a lifesaver.

Imagine being in a remote area or a country where medical services are not equipped to handle your health needs. Travel insurance can arrange and cover the cost of transporting you to a hospital that can provide the necessary care, ensuring that distance or location doesn’t stand in the way of receiving quality treatment. Medical evacuations can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and travel insurance makes sure you’re protected from those financial burdens.

4. Peace of mind for traveling companions

Traveling with health challenges doesn’t only affect you — it can also be a source of worry for your loved ones and travel companions. By securing travel insurance, you provide not just for your own peace of mind, but also for theirs. Your friends or family members can enjoy the trip knowing that if your health takes a sudden turn, there’s a safety net in place to address any medical needs, trip changes or other concerns that may arise.

For travelers who might need assistance during emergencies, having insurance means your companions can stay focused on supporting you rather than scrambling to figure out how to handle unexpected costs or logistical issues. The emotional security of knowing that help is available when needed makes the entire travel experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

5. Coverage for prescription medications and ongoing treatment

If you live with a chronic condition that requires regular medication or ongoing treatments, travel can introduce unique challenges. Lost or delayed baggage, changing time zones or unfamiliar health care systems can all make it difficult to manage your prescriptions and medical care. Travel insurance can help cover the costs of replacing lost medications or arranging care if your regular treatment schedule is disrupted.

Additionally, some travel insurance policies offer options for pre-existing condition waivers, allowing travelers with chronic health issues to ensure their ongoing treatment needs are covered while abroad. This can be a significant relief if you rely on medications or regular treatments to manage your health.

For many, simply knowing that if their medication is lost or damaged there’s a backup plan brings immense peace of mind. Travel insurance serves as a vital tool in ensuring that, even when the unexpected happens, your health is never compromised.

Travel insurance is essential for peace of mind

Travel is an opportunity to experience new cultures, connect with different people, and make unforgettable memories. But when you have health challenges, the logistics of ensuring you’re protected can be overwhelming. Securing travel insurance tailored to your health needs not only safeguards your health but also protects your finances and ensures you have access to care, no matter where in the world you are.

By covering emergency medical situations, trip cancellations, medical evacuations and even the management of ongoing conditions, travel insurance transforms travel from a potential risk into a more secure adventure. Ultimately, it’s not just about protecting yourself from the financial burden of an unexpected medical situation — it’s about giving yourself the freedom to travel with confidence.

If you face health challenges and are considering travel, make travel insurance a priority. It’s the one investment that ensures you’re prepared for anything and can fully enjoy your trip without the stress of potential medical or financial worries hanging over your head. Traveling is meant to be a fulfilling and enriching experience, and with the right insurance, you can explore the world with the peace of mind you deserve .

This story was created using AI technology.

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• chronic illness travel , emergency medical care , health challenges , medical coverage , medical evacuation , prescription coverage , travel insurance , travel peace of mind , travel safety , trip cancellations

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