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Travel Insurance: What It Covers and When to Buy It

The range of benefits and prices for different policies can be complicated. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

By Elaine Glusac

In the wake of Covid, travel insurance sales have spiked with the rebound in travel as people seek to protect their investments against flight delays and cancellations, extreme weather events and the persistence of the virus. But travel insurance is complicated with a range of benefits, inclusions and prices. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

Know what’s covered

Generally speaking, travel insurance covers unforeseen events, like an illness in the family, the loss of a job or a natural disaster, that force you to cancel or interrupt a trip. It can also apply in the event of a strike at a transportation company, a terrorist attack in your destination or when your travel provider goes bankrupt. These are known as covered reasons . Most polices also include medical coverage, which is useful abroad where your health insurance may not cover you.

While policy prices vary based on age, length of travel and type of coverage, expect to pay between 4 to 10 percent of your entire trip cost to get insured.

Insure nonrefundable expenses

Travel insurance was designed to protect expenses you can’t get back any other way when things go wrong. Think of nonrefundable Airbnb reservations or the cost of a cruise to the Galápagos.

If your hotel is refundable and you can get the value of your flights back in credits, you can skip travel insurance.

Buy close to booking

Travel insurers say the best time to buy travel insurance — which usually takes effect within a day of purchase — is just after making your travel plans to have the largest possible coverage window. A lot can happen between booking a Christmas market cruise in Europe in June and going in December.

With many plans, purchasing travel insurance 10 to 14 days from your first trip payment entitles you to “early purchase” benefits such as a waiver for pre-existing medical conditions that impact travel. If such a waiver is included, it is usually prominent in a summary of benefits, so read it carefully.

“Not all plans have a pre-existing condition waiver,” said Suzanne Morrow, the senior vice president of InsureMyTrip.com , an online insurance marketplace. “If I have a heart condition and if something occurs, I don’t want it excluded, so I would need to buy a policy within 14 days of the first dollar spent.”

Hedge against the weather

You can’t control the weather, but you can insure against its unexpected disruptions. For example, if you’re ready to jump on great rates in the Caribbean during the height of hurricane season, buy your insurance immediately after booking so that if a hurricane develops and your destination is evacuated, you’ll be covered.

“That’s probably the biggest use case for travel insurance,” said Stan Sandberg, a co-founder of TravelInsurance.com , an online marketplace. He counsels travelers to buy early — if you wait and the storm is named it will be too late to insure against it, because it is no longer an unforeseen event.

Similarly, with winter travel, if you’ve purchased nonrefundable ski lift tickets and a storm prevents you from reaching the resort, you may be able to claim the unused portion of your ski pass.

This coverage may prove more valuable as climate change exacerbates weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, which are considered “natural disasters” and are covered by most policies.

Pick up the phone

With the proliferation of automated insurance offers when you buy airline tickets or tours, travel insurance can feel like a one-size-fits-all product. It is not. Many policies, for example, exclude extreme sports like skydiving and mountain climbing, though there are specialty policies that include them.

If you have a specific concern — a family member is sick or you’re going heli-skiing — the best way to know if a travel insurance policy will cover you is to call an insurer or the help line at a travel insurance marketplace to get advice.

“Tell them the what-if scenario and then you can get professional and accurate advice,” Ms. Morrow said. “Thinking you’re covered and then having your claim denied is salt in the wound.”

Travel insurance does not cover ‘unpleasantries’

What if you’re dreading spending a week in an un-air-conditioned rental in England during a heat wave and decide you don’t want to go? Most standard travel insurance will not cover a change of heart.

“Travel insurance doesn’t cover you for unpleasantries,” said Carol Mueller, the vice president for strategic marketing at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection.

A policy upgrade, Cancel for Any Reason coverage, which is not available in every state, will cover a change of heart, usually up until a few days before departure. Most only reimburse 50 to 75 percent of your costs and the purchase must be made within weeks of your initial trip payment. It will bump your insurance premium up 40 to 50 percent, according to the insurance marketplace Squaremouth.com , which only recommends C.F.A.R. for travelers with specific concerns not included under covered reasons for trip cancellation.

A relatively new twist in trip protection, Interruption for Any Reason , works like C.F.A.R. in that it reimburses a portion of your expenses and can be invoked if you decide to bail while you’re on a trip for a reason that isn’t covered by standard trip insurance. Normally, you must buy it within weeks of your initial trip payment and be 72 hours into a trip before you can use it.

Keep records

If something goes wrong and you need to make a claim, you’ll need proof in the form of a paper trail. That could be receipts for clothing you purchased when your bags went missing, a hotel room required when your flight was canceled (along with flight cancellation notices from the airline) or a doctor’s note stating that you have Covid — or another illness — and are unable to travel. (With Covid, a positive test taken at home is not considered official documentation for the purposes of a claim.)

Resist pressure to buy flight insurance

When purchasing an airline ticket online, most carriers offer travel insurance to cover the cost with some version of vaguely menacing language like, “Do you really want to risk your investment?” when you decline.

Don’t fall for it. You may want to insure that ticket, but price out the policy elsewhere. A recent offer to insure a $428 flight for nearly $28 on an airline website cost $12 to $96 with a range of options at InsureMyTrip.com.

The $12 option was closest to the airline’s offer. Caveat emptor.

An earlier version of this article misspelled the first name of the senior vice president of InsureMyTrip.com , an online insurance marketplace. It is Suzanne Morrow, not Suzanna.

How we handle corrections

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Provincetown, Mass.:  Located at the tip of Cape Cod, P-town (as locals call it) has overlapping — and sometimes competing — identities : one of America’s oldest art colonies, nature preserve, thriving L.G.B.T.Q. resort and historic Portuguese fishing village.

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

• Pre-Existing Condition

What is Pre-Existing Condition Travel Insurance?

Traveling with a pre-existing medical condition can be a costly and stressful endeavor. Pre-Existing Condition travel insurance is a type of coverage designed to provide protection to individuals traveling with a medical condition that existed before purchasing a policy.

Common examples of pre-existing medical conditions could include chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma, as well as previous injuries or surgeries.

Most standard travel insurance plans typically exclude pre-existing injuries and illnesses from coverage. However, many travel insurance companies offer plans that include a Pre-Existing Condition waiver that extends valuable medical coverage benefits for the duration of a traveler’s trip.

Pre-Existing Condition coverage is time-sensitive, meaning it is typically only available for 14-21 days after a traveler makes their initial trip deposit. Pricing, exclusions, lookback periods, and eligibility requirements can vary from one travel insurance provider to the next.

Under most travel insurance policies, pre-existing medical conditions are often excluded from coverage. However, qualifying travelers can opt for a plan that includes a Pre-Existing Condition Waiver which removes this exclusion from their policy.

With a Pre-Existing Condition Waiver, travelers with existing health conditions may be protected in the following ways:

• Medical Coverage: This includes coverage for medical treatment, hospital stays, and medication related to pre-existing conditions during the trip.
• Trip Cancellation : If the pre-existing condition worsens unexpectedly before a trip and results in a cancellation, this coverage can provide reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs.
• Trip Interruption : If a traveler experiences a flare up or medical emergency relating to their pre-existing medical condition during a trip, this coverage can provide reimbursement for any unused non-refundable costs.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation : If necessary, the policy may cover medical expenses relating to an emergency evacuation due to a pre-existing condition exacerbation if deemed necessary by an attending physician.

Not all travelers with a pre-existing medical condition qualify for travel insurance coverage. While eligibility requirements can vary from plan to the next, most travel insurance companies will consider the following:

Time of Purchase

If you want to buy travel insurance that covers a pre-existing medical condition, it’s best to act sooner rather than later. Pre-Existing Condition coverage is time-sensitive, and most plans require you to purchase a plan within 14-21 days after your initial trip deposit date .

For most travelers, their first trip deposit is typically airfare, a hotel reservation, or cruise booking. Waiting too long to purchase a policy could impact your eligibility.

Medical History

In order to qualify for a Pre-Existing Condition Waiver, your health must be stable at the time of your policy’s effective date . Your travel insurance provider may require a note from your doctor or other healthcare professional that indicates you clear to travel.

Many travel insurance providers also impose a lookback period, which is a time-frame that they can look back through your medical records to ensure your condition hasn’t worsened. This period can range between 60-180 days, depending on the policy.

In order to be eligible for Pre-Existing Condition coverage, you must insure 100% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs . This includes airfare, accommodations, tours, excursions, rental cars, and other bookings you may have made.

Before you purchase travel medical insurance, it’s important to note that a Pre-Existing Condition Waiver does not cover all pre-existing medical conditions. Even if you meet a policy’s eligibility requirements, most providers won’t offer coverage if you file a travel insurance claim for the following medical issues:

• Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions
• Alcohol or drug-related medical conditions

For specific exclusions, we recommend contacting your travel insurance provider directly or reading the fine print in your travel insurance policy’s Certificate of Insurance .

Please be aware that coverage and eligibility requirements for this benefit differ by policy. The tables below show the providers that offer Pre-Existing Condition coverage.

Looking for a policy with Pre-Existing Condition coverage?

Enter your trip information on our custom quote form . Once you receive your results, select the Pre-Existing Condition filter to find the best policy for your trip with the coverage that you need.

Pre-Existing Condition by Provider

• Travel Delay
• Hurricane & Weather
• Missed Connection
• Cancel For Any Reason
• Cancel for Covid-19 Sickness
• Trip Cancellation
• Trip Interruption
• Financial Default
• Employment Layoff
• Cancel For Medical Reasons
• Cancel For Work Reasons
• Interruption For Any Reason
• Medical Coverage for Covid-19
• Emergency Medical
• Co-Insurance
• Medical Deductible
• Home Country Coverage
• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Non-Medical Evacuation
• Extension Of Coverage
• Baggage Delay
• Baggage & Personal Items Loss
• 24 Hour AD&D
• Flight Only AD&D
• Common Carrier AD&D
• Sports & Activities
• Sports Equipment Loss
• Sports Equipment Delay
• Sports Weather Loss
• Search & Rescue
• Sports Fees
• Rental Car Damage
• Money Back Guarantee
• 24 Hour Assistance Service
• Identity Theft
• Renewable Policy
• Maximum Trip Length
• Maximum Number of Trips
• Additional Benefits

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• Personal Finance

Best Travel Insurance Companies for August 2024

Travel insurance is an important product to consider when booking a trip, especially if it's a pricy one or you believe there's a chance it could be canceled. If you're like the 40% of people who told Nationwide Travel Insurance they plan to travel more in 2024 than in 2023, then travel insurance could be key to making those plans a reality. And if you don't have travel insurance through your credit card, then it's important to get a policy from a travel insurance company.

According to our research, Travelex is the best travel insurance company because its comprehensive coverage comes relatively cheap. We chose the best travel insurers in our list based on an analysis of 31 travel insurance companies across several areas that are most important to travelers, including options available for your coverage, claim and policy limits, what the policy does and doesn't cover, and typical policy costs. We took time to research insurance coverage limits and what the policies covered and rank companies accordingly.

• Best Overall: Travelex
• Runner-Up, Best Overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best Value: InsureMyTrip
• Most Comprehensive Coverage: World Nomads
• Best for Older Adults: HTH Travel Insurance
• Best for Cruises: Nationwide
• Best for Medical Coverage: GeoBlue
• Our Top Picks

Allianz Travel Insurance

InsureMyTrip

World Nomads

HTH Travel Insurance

• See More (4)

The Best Travel Insurance Company: Travelex

• Compare Providers
• What Is Travel Insurance?

Is Travel Insurance Necessary?

What does travel insurance cover.

• How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
• What Happens When You Cancel a Trip?

How to Get Travel Insurance in 6 Easy Steps

Best overall : travelex.

• Number of Policy Types: 3
• Coverage Limit: Up to 100% up to $50,000 for cancellations
• Starting Price: $24

Travelex is the best overall travel insurance company because it offers coverage (up to 150% for interruptions) for you or your family members at a competitive price—and kids are included at no extra charge. A relatively low price for the high levels of coverage made it our top choice. Look for the Travel Select plan for the best coverage.

Competitive pricing for comprehensive coverage

Multiple plan options with customizable features

Children younger than 21 covered at no extra cost

Mixed pre-existing medical condition coverage depending on the policy purchase date

No annual plan available

Basic coverage plan features minimal coverage

Travelex Insurance Services is a well-known travel insurance provider based in Omaha, Nebraska. Founded in 1996, Travelex offers several insurance packages depending on the coverage you need for your trip. Policies are underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, which earns an A++ rating from AM Best and AA+ from Standard & Poor’s, which means the company has good financial strength.  Coverage is available to customers worldwide.

There are three plans: Travel Basic (the budget-friendly option), Travel Select (good for families), Travel America (coverage for travel in the U.S.).

The Travel Select plan starts at about $36 (that is a one-time payment for your whole trip). It includes trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption, and emergency medical and evacuation, but there also are several ways to customize and upgrade coverage. It also includes protection for kids 17 and under.

Travel is covered up to $50,000 for cancellations. You can receive up to 150% of the trip cost, up to $75,000, for trip interruptions. Emergency medical limits are $50,000, and emergency evacuation coverage is good for up to $500,000.

In addition, Travel Select has a 15-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver. If you purchase your policy within 15 days of paying for your trip and insure the full cost of the trip, your pre-existing injury or illness is likely covered.

Runner-Up , Best Overall : Allianz Travel Insurance

• Number of Policy Types: 10
• Coverage Limit: Varies depending on annual or single-trip plan
• Starting Price: $138

Allianz is the runner-up best overall travel insurance company because it offers coverage for frequent travelers with a low cost per trip. Get the best coverage from the AllTrips Executive Plan. Individual trip coverage is also available.

Annual- or single-trip plans are available

Many policy types fit varying needs

Cover yourself and your household all year even if you’re not traveling together

Does not cover extended travel periods

Some annual plans have per-trip limits while others have annual limits

Limit for emergency medical transportation coverage is only $250,000

Allianz Travel is a subsidiary of Allianz, which traces its history back to 1890 in Germany. Travel policies are underwritten by insurers with AM Best ratings of A to A+ and are available only to legal U.S. residents.

Travelers who want to hit the road many times per year should consider annual travel insurance rather than individual per-trip policies. Allianz Travel offers four different annual plans with varying benefit levels. We particularly like its AllTrips Executive Plan, which has the highest limits and coverage.

The AllTrips Executive Plan provides tiered limits starting at $5,000 for trip cancellation insurance or interruption coverage. It also offers $50,000 for emergency medical and $250,000 for emergency transportation per insured per trip. There is a lengthy list of exclusions, including extreme sports, so make sure to read the fine print before jumping into adventure activities.

Quotes for a single traveler, a couple, and a family of four had a price point of $500 per traveler per year. If you pay for comprehensive coverage at $120 per person per trip and are going to travel at least five times per year, you will break even with this plan. If you’re looking for lower costs, the AllTrips Basic, Premier, and Prime options are also available from Allianz.

Best Value : InsureMyTrip

• Number of Policy Types: Multiple options from over 20 providers
• Coverage Limit: Varies
• Starting Price: $25 to $100

InsureMyTrip is the best valued travel insurance company because it allows you to compare policies from more than 20 different travel insurance providers with one form so you know you’re getting a good deal for the coverage you need. You can find low-cost trip coverage or customize a plan to meet your needs so you don’t overpay for coverage you won’t use.

Search for quotes from multiple reputable insurers

Shop around with one application for multiple trip types

View multiple plans from eligible insurers for your planned trip

Many popular insurers are not included in listings

Initial listing pages don’t show policy limits

Includes some policies with low coverage limits

Founded in 2000, InsureMyTrip is a travel insurance comparison website that searches more than 20 insurers using one intake form. It offers an easy-to-use sign-up tool to compare multiple policies based on your specific needs quickly. Filters can pick policies that cover adventure sports, higher limits, increased medical coverage, and more.

A quote for a family of four taking a 14-day trip that costs $4,000 and includes plane and hotel expenses resulted in three suggested plans with costs of around $100 to around $400 for varying levels of travel protection. Basic features included luggage coverage, travel delay, and medical care. Note that rates will differ based on where customers are originating from and where they are vacationing, as well as other variables.

The insurers you'll find while using InsureMyTrip have earned a variety of industry ratings and are generally considered reputable and financially stable. Still, as with policies bought directly from insurers, it’s a good idea to read the policy details before clicking the buy button. Each underlying insurer has different claims processes, exclusions, and limits. InsureMyTrip makes it easier, however, to be an informed travel insurance buyer.

Most Comprehensive Coverage : World Nomads

• Number of Policy Types: 2
• Coverage Limit: Up to $10,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: $100 to $200

World Nomads is the best comprehensive coverage travel insurance company because adventure travelers and digital nomads will get coverage of up to $100,000 for accidents for some of the most extreme adventures.

Extensive coverage with high limits for medical and emergency evacuation

Protects your bags, computers, and sports equipment when traveling

Explorer plan covers adventure sports

Only single-trip plans are available

Most pre-existing medical conditions are not covered

Not all policies cover adventure sports

World Nomads is a good insurer for those looking for adventure. The Australia-based provider was founded in 2000 and is a solid choice for worldwide travel with few excluded activities. Policies are underwritten by various insurers including the financially strong and well-known Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, Generali Global, AIG, and Lloyd’s.

Coverage includes terrorist attacks, assault, medical repatriation, equipment and baggage, and overseas medical and dental. The high-end Explorer Plan covers activities including snow sports, water sports, aviation, motorsports, athletics, and high-adventure experiences. It names more than 200 activities, many of which other insurers specifically exclude.

For the Explorer Plan, a solo 35-year-old would pay around $200, depending on inputs like state of origin, for a month in Thailand, which is reasonable for such extensive coverage. The Standard Plan costs around $100 for the same trip, but it makes sense to choose higher coverage levels if you’re worried about something going wrong.

This U.S.-based policy is underwritten by Nationwide (rated A by AM Best) with a $100,000 limit for emergency accidents and illnesses, $500,000 for emergency evacuation, $10,000 for trip cancellation insurance (or interruption), and much more.

Though it doesn’t have the same insurance reputation as some other providers, it works with reputable companies to underwrite policies.

Best for Older Adults : HTH Travel Insurance

• Number of Policy Types: 5
• Coverage Limit: Up to $50,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: Varies

HTH Travel Insurance is the best travel insurance company for older adults because its medical coverage is excellent and you get flexible options while on a budget.

High levels of medical coverage for adults up to 95 years old

Up to a $1,500 allowance for someone to visit you in the hospital

May be expensive depending on your needs

Best plan for older adults requires existing health insurance

Lowest policy has a $50,000 maximum benefit per person

Headquartered in Pennsylvania, HTH Worldwide was founded in 1997, and HTH Travel Insurance offers plans with high levels of medical coverage. That’s a big concern for older adults leaving the country , as they could end up in a doctor’s office or hospital with an expensive bill to follow. HTH Travel Insurance offers up to $1 million in total coverage for medical.

Policies for travelers with existing primary insurance enjoy 100% coverage for typical hospital charges, including surgery, tests, office visits, inpatient hospital stays, and prescription drugs outside of the U.S., among other coverage.

Medical evacuation is available up to $500,000, but trip interruption and baggage coverage are pretty light. Most people will choose this plan for medical rather than travel benefits. This policy is available to applicants who are 95 years old or younger.

Travel insurance is also available for people without existing health coverage. Most older adults in the U.S. are covered by some existing coverage, such as Medicare, but Medicare doesn’t work outside of the United States, leaving people uninsured when abroad. HTH Travel Insurance provides policies for those without existing medical coverage. The age limit is 95, but there is a 180-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

Best for Cruises : Nationwide

• Number of Policy Types: 8
• Coverage Limit: Up to $30,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: $100

Nationwide is the best travel insurance for cruises because it offers multiple options to protect your cruise vacation with tailored coverage for common cruise trip issues. Make sure to review the benefit levels so you pick the right coverage for your needs.

Large insurer with a strong reputation

Three different cruise insurance plans to choose from

Coverage for common cruise issues like missed connections and itinerary changes

Some plans have low coverage levels for some incidents

Benefit limits are low for trip interruption for any reason

Pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered

Nationwide has been around since 1925. The Columbus, Ohio-based insurance company offers the most popular types of insurance including auto, home, and life. It also offers a few types of travel insurance coverage for individual trips, multi-trips, and cruises.

For single trip protection, Nationwide offers trip cancellation insurance of up to $10,000 with its Essentials plan and $30,000 with its Prime plan. Travelers may also get an annual travel insurance package for just $59 a year to cover delays, medical expenses, medical evacuation, lost luggage, and travel assistance.

Its custom-tailored plans for cruises, however, are what landed it in this category. The Universal Cruise plan, Choice Cruise plan, and Luxury Cruise plan make it easy to pick the right coverage for your individual needs. The cost for a couple on a 10-day cruise to Mexico, for example, was quoted at around $200 for both the Universal and Choice plans.

Cruise insurance from Nationwide covers what you worry about most with a cruise. Things like broken-down ships and itinerary changes can lead to missed excursions and flights or other costs. For the Universal Cruise plan, emergency medical expenses are covered up to $75,000 with medical evacuation benefits up to $250,000.

Additionally, all plans include coverage for the weather, an extension of school sessions, work emergencies, and terrorism. The luxury plan also covers the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warnings in effect at your destination.

Travelers in 2024 have concerns over trip cancelations due to unprecedented events. Nationwide's survey showed that 51% are still worried about a resurgence of COVID-19, while 54% worry about weather-related delays or cancellations. Other worries include technology issues (38%), unruly fellow travelers (37%), and employee strikes (25%). Travel insurance can help alleviate some stress about a trip being canceled.

Best for Medical Coverage : GeoBlue

GeoBlue is the best travel insurance company for medical coverage because it offers multiple options to buy travel medical insurance coverage for a lower price than a full travel insurance package. It offers medical coverage on its own if you don’t want or need additional travel coverage.

Up to $1 million in medical coverage

Gives a la carte medical coverage when other trip costs are already covered

Different policies allow you to cover various needs and pre-existing medical conditions

Primarily covers medical costs

Additional primary medical coverage required

GeoBlue, headquartered in Pennsylvania, is part of Worldwide Insurance Services, and policies come with a license from Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Policies are issued by 4 Ever Life International Limited, a company with a history of more than 60 years and an A rating (Excellent) from AM Best.

If you just need coverage for medical needs, GeoBlue is a good choice. This insurer offers only travel medical coverage. Paying for medical coverage means you aren't paying for the rest of your travel insurance, which you already may have covered. If you already have a credit card with travel insurance included, your card's terms likely protect things like lost luggage and missed flights, for example. Instead, you get covered just for medical, and the costs for that are as low as a few dollars per day.

Because you’re mostly getting travel medical coverage, you will pay a lot less than most other insurers on this list. Just make sure you completely understand what it does and doesn't cover. You will receive only minimal luggage protection and travel interruption coverage with GeoBlue's plans.

GeoBlue has two general plans for single trips, multiple trips, and long-term travel. Additionally, there are five specialty policies for niche travel medical insurance needs, like study abroad. It doesn’t cover everything related to your trip, but it makes medical coverage much more affordable.

Travelex is the best travel insurance company because it offers competitive pricing for comprehensive travel insurance. Policies from Travelex cover everything from canceled or interrupted trips to medical emergencies and evacuations. It also features a 15-day pre-existing medical conditions waiver, which means that as long as you book your trip several weeks in advance, you and your family members will likely still be covered.

There are many options to choose from when it comes to travel insurance. It can provide you with peace of mind and save you thousands of dollars if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted at the last minute. With world events like pandemics, natural disasters, and wars that could easily throw an unexpected wrench in your travel plans, travel insurance helps you to stay prepared. Overall, our top choice for travel insurance is Travelex.

Why You Can Trust Our Expert Recommendations for the Best Travel Insurance

Investopedia identified the most important factors for readers looking for a travel insurance company. Then we collected several key data points from over 30 travel insurance companies. We used this data to review and score each company for cost, coverage limits, exclusions, customer service, and other features to provide unbiased, comprehensive recommendations to ensure our readers make the right decision for their needs. Investopedia launched in 1999, and has been helping readers find the best travel insurance companies since 2020.

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Travel insurance covers common problems when traveling. From trip interruptions to full cancellations, it can help protect the money you put down for your travel experience.

Common coverage includes more than just an unexpected trip stoppage. It can also cover lost or damaged luggage and changes to your itinerary for covered reasons, among other benefits.

Medical coverage is an important factor to consider because your current health insurance may not work away from home. The best travel insurance includes coverage for medical treatment, dental emergencies, and medical transportation. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are at risk, it’s important to make sure your policy covers these, too.

If you're traveling locally, such as within your state or within your country, you likely do not need travel insurance. You may be covered with some sort of trip insurance through the credit card you paid for your trip with, and you may have adequate health insurance that can cover you if you need medical attention away from home.

Some credit cards , especially those premium travel rewards cards, may provide the following coverages: 

• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip delay reimbursement
• Emergency evacuation and transportation
• Accidental death and dismemberment
• Lost or delayed luggage reimbursement
• Auto damage waivers
• Roadside emergency assistance

And if you book a refundable trip, travel insurance may not be necessary.

However, if your trip is expensive or it's in another country, travel insurance will come in handy if something unexpected were to happen. You may also need travel insurance if you're traveling to a particular country such as Antarctica, Egypt, Chile, Turkey, and more.

Travel insurance can give you peace of mind that you'll get some of your money back or that you're insured in case you need medical attention or another type of help while away from home.

Tips for Picking the Best Travel Insurance for You

When picking the best travel insurance policy, there are a few things you should consider. Here are some tips and factors to think about:

• Look for low pricing and good coverage : Pricing is one of the most significant factors when comparing travel insurance policies. Look for a provider that offers low rates and doesn’t skimp on coverage.
• Don't settle for the first policy type : Depending on where you’re traveling and how long you’re staying there, different types of travel insurance policies may work best for your situation. For instance, you may need a different policy for a weeklong trip than you would if you plan to travel abroad for several months.
• Match your coverage limits to your travel costs : Travel insurance plans have coverage limits for trip cancellation, interruption, and medical expenses. Look for a plan whose coverage limit matches the amount you’ve spent on your travel plans.
• Don't forget to look at the exclusions : Some travel insurance plans come with exclusions. If you’re worried about a particular event or accident, make sure it’s covered before you pay for a plan.
• Look for high customer satisfaction ratings : Customer satisfaction is also an important factor when purchasing a travel insurance plan. Look for a provider with high customer satisfaction ratings and a history of good customer service.

"As someone who is always purchasing travel insurance, and has been for years, the thing that matters to me the most is mainly coverage and customer service. I want to know what my policy will cover, especially if I am taking a trip that involves a lot of activities, as well as how easy it will be to contact the company should I need to do so. I have found in the past that the price is always very reasonable and you can shop around, so it has never been the biggest concern for me." -Alice Morgan, Senior Digital Art Director, Dotdash Meredith

Travel insurance may include many different benefits. Here’s a look at some common situations covered by many travel insurance plans:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Missed connection
• Baggage and possession loss, damage, and theft
• Delayed luggage
• Emergency medical treatment
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)

Emergency medical treatment may include things like ambulance services, x-rays, doctor bills, dental work, lab work, and more. It'll depend on the travel insurance company, so be sure to ask before paying for the insurance and/or additional benefits.

There are additional specialty coverages as well, such as customized policies for cruises. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare before making a final decision.

What Does Travel Insurance Not Cover?

Just as homeowners insurance often excludes damage from things like earthquakes and floods, travel insurance has common exclusions you need to know about. Here are some types of coverage you may not get with travel insurance:

• Weather-related cancellations and delays
• Trip cancellations or changes due to acts of terrorism
• Trip cancellations or changes due to a pandemic
• Injuries from extreme sports and high-adventure activities

Though most policies have limits and exclusions around these circumstances, not all do. Some insurers on this list have special coverage for these exact causes or include them in standard plan terms. Again, this is why it’s so important to read your policy documents before paying for and locking in your policy.

Best Cancel-for-Any-Reason Travel Insurance

The best cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) travel insurance company is USI Affinity because it offers seven different insurance plans at the lowest premiums of all CFAR insurance companies we researched.

Travel insurance costs vary widely by coverage and insurer. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars a day to more than $10 a day for short-term and single-trip coverage. The cost of your trip is another major factor in the insurance rate.

A few things impact the cost of travel insurance:

• Destination
• Length of trip
• Age of travelers

That means insurance for a single trip could cost anywhere from around $20 to hundreds of dollars. Annual policies cost around $500 per year for high levels of coverage.

There are many inexpensive travel insurance plans available, but most travelers are best protected with comprehensive coverage. It costs a bit more, but you'll be glad you have it if you need to file a claim.

Is Travel Insurance Worth the Cost?

If you pay a lot for a trip or vacation, then travel insurance should be worth the cost because you don't want to lose out on that investment. It won't always be necessary, but if travel insurance costs just a fraction of what you paid for the trip, then you'll be happy you had it if you have to cancel a trip worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. For example, if you book a European vacation worth $4,000 and your travel insurance costs just $400, it might be worth it so that if anything happens and you need to cancel, you still get $3,600 back in your pocket.

How Does Travel Insurance Work When You Cancel Your Trip?

When canceling your trip, you'll want to contact the travel insurance company right away. The policy and travel insurance company you selected will cover certain parts of your trip. It's important to review this policy and details to understand exactly what you need to do to get your money back for your trip.

Don't cancel your trip until you read your policy and know what is required for your claim.

For example, if you are ill and a doctor tells you not to travel, you may need to get a written note from the doctor and submit it with your trip cancellation claim.

Before you submit a claim and cancel your trip, consider if you can delay it and reschedule it instead. If you can't, then make sure you have all the required documents (receipts, proof of hotel booking, airline ticket confirmation, etc.). Once you submit your claim, it could take days (Allianz says up to 10 business days, sometimes) for you to receive notice that the claim was processed.

• Select a travel insurance company.
• Apply for the travel insurance plan of choice on the company's website or over the phone.
• Provide basic info about who is traveling and their travel plans, like name, age, location of trip, travel expenses, and costs like hotels or airfare.
• Wait to be approved.
• Create an online account for easy access while you travel. Some companies may also have an app.
• Enjoy your trip, and file a claim online or over the phone if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which travel insurance is best.

The best travel insurance company is Travelex because it offers comprehensive coverage at a relatively low price. Travelex has multiple plan options and family members younger than 21 are covered at no extra cost. Another perk is Travelex's Travel Select plan which has a 15-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver. If you purchase your policy within 15 days of paying for your trip and insure the full cost of your trip, your pre-existing injury or illness is likely covered.

In Which Countries Is Travel Insurance Required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory or required by all countries, but some do. For example, Cuba requires people traveling from the U.S. to Cuba to have non-U.S. medical insurance, which may be covered through travel insurance or an airline. Other countries that may require or strongly encourage travel insurance include Antarctica, Egypt, Chile, Turkey, and more. Check a country's specific travel requirements before booking your trip to understand if travel insurance is required.

How Many Days Before a Trip Should You Buy Travel Insurance?

You should always buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. If you forgot to buy travel insurance when you booked, it's OK—aim to buy it at least 15 days before traveling to ensure you're eligible for coverage.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for a Cruise?

Just as with any kind of trip, whether you need cruise insurance largely depends on the cost of the trip, and where you're going. If you're paying more than $1,000 for a cruise, travel insurance is probably worth it. For instance, you may want international medical insurance if you're traveling to other countries because some health insurance policies do not cover international travel—Medicare and Medicaid in particular.

Just be aware that if you buy cruise insurance (as opposed to a general travel insurance policy), it may not cover travel before and after the cruise, such as your flight to the port and any hotel expenses you may have pre- or post-trip.

Does State Farm Offer Travel Insurance?

State Farm does not offer travel insurance. State Farm offers car insurance, motorcycle insurance, boat insurance, motorhome insurance, off-road vehicle insurance, homeowners insurance, renters insurance, condo insurance, life insurance, liability insurance, small business insurance, and more.

Can You Buy Travel Insurance After Booking a Flight?

Yes, you can book travel insurance after booking a flight. This may be a great time to book travel insurance because you'll know what coverage you need in case something happens and your trip is canceled. Signing up for travel insurance as soon as possible will always be your best bet.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Canceled Flights?

Most travel insurance covers canceled flights, as well as delayed flights. If your flight is delayed by a certain number of hours, your travel insurance may reimburse you for the additional money you spent as a result of that delay or cancelation.

Should You Get Travel Insurance Through an Airline?

Some airlines offer trip insurance through travel insurance companies. For example, United Airlines offers a Travel Guard insurance plan that may cover unexpected trip cancellations due to illness, and reimbursement for canceled flights or lost luggage. However, you should first compare all your travel insurance options before picking a company and plan to ensure you'll pay a fair price for exactly what you need.

How We Found the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with this list of the top travel insurance providers, we looked at more than 30 different travel insurance companies and plans. Major areas of focus included coverage options, claim and policy limits, what’s covered, and typical insurance policy costs.

The biggest focus was on insurance coverage limits and what each policy covers. Cost is important, but a difference of $20 for much better coverage is often negligible. The most important features examined in this review are the ones that make your policy valuable and easy to use if you ever need it.

Your Guide to Travel Insurance

• Do I Need Travel Insurance?
• How to Get the Cheapest Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance Options for Older Adults
• Best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Travel Insurance
• How Much Is Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance?
• How to Buy Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance

Nationwide. " Survey: U.S. Consumer Travel to Surge in 2024 ."

Travelex. " About Travelex ."

S&P Global Market Intelligence. " Insurance Ratings Actions: S&P Acts on Berkshire Hathaway’s Insurance Segment ."

AM Best. " AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Berkshire Hathaway Life Ins Co of Nebraska and First Berkshire Hathaway Life Ins Co ."

Travelex. " Travel Select ."

Allianz. " History of Allianz ."

AM Best " AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of BCS Financial Group Members ."

AM Best. " AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Allianz SE and Rated Subsidiaries ."

Allianz Travel. " AllTrips Executive ."

InsureMyTrip. " About ."

World Nomads. " About World Nomads ."

World Nomads. " What's Covered for Americans? "

World Nomads. " Summary of Plan Benefits: Explorer Plan ."

AM Best. " AM Best Downgrades Credit Ratings of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Its Property/Casualty Subsidiaries; Affirms Credit Ratings of Life Affiliates ."

HTH Travel Insurance. " About Us ."

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. " Travel Outside the U.S. "

HTH Travel Insurance. " Options for Travelers Without a Primary Plan ."

Nationwide. " About Nationwide ."

Nationwide. " Nationwide Single-Trip Insurance ."

Nationwide. " Nationwide Annual Travel Insurance ."

Nationwide. " Cruise Travel Insurance ."

4 Ever Life. " About Us ."

AM Best. " AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of BCS Financial Group Members ."

GeoBlue. " Travel Medical Insurance Plans ."

InsureMyTrip. " Which Countries Require Travel Insurance? "

Squaremouth Travel Insurance. " Emergency Medical ."

Allianz. " Trip Cancellation Checklist ."

U.S. Embassy in Cuba. " Medical Assistance ."

Travelex. " Frequently Asked Questions ."

State Farm. " Types of Insurance Coverage ."

Travelers. " When to Get Travel Insurance ."

Travelex. " Trip Delay Coverage ."

AIG and United. " Domestic Air Ticket Plan ."

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The 5 Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

AIG Travel Guard »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

Trawick International »

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 Annual Travel Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• AIG Travel Guard

Buying travel insurance can be a smart move for most trips, but those who travel more than a few times a year should consider an annual travel insurance policy. Whether you regularly travel for business and/or take several vacations a year, annual travel insurance plans can help you get the coverage you need without having to price out and purchase protection every time you leave home.

If you find yourself in a situation where an annual plan makes sense, know that not all travel insurance companies offer this kind of coverage. You'll also want to consider the available annual travel insurance plans to see which options make sense for your travel style and the level of coverage you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Annual travel insurance plans all work in their own way, but the majority let travelers pay one annual premium for coverage that lasts for up to 364 days. These plans often limit the length of individual trips that are covered within the coverage year. Per-trip and annual limits on coverage can also apply.

In some cases, annual travel insurance plans require a deductible or coinsurance for certain types of coverage. If you're considering an annual travel insurance plan because you take multiple trips each year, make sure you read over the policy details and understand all coverage limits and trip limits that apply.

The cost of annual travel insurance typically varies based on factors like the age of the travelers applying, included benefits and coverage limits. You will want to shop around to compare plans across multiple providers using a platform like TravelInsurance.com or Squaremouth before you settle on a travel insurance policy.

To provide an example of the cost of annual travel insurance, U.S. News applied for a quote for two 40-year-old travelers seeking coverage for eight trips over a 12-month period. The Squaremouth travel insurance portal quoted policies with costs that range from $206 for the GeoBlue Trekker Essential plan to $610 for the Safe Travels Annual Deluxe plan by Trawick International.

Annual travel insurance can be worth it if you take multiple trips each year and want to make sure you always have coverage in place. After all, the alternative to having a multitrip policy is buying a new travel insurance plan for every vacation you take. That's not always feasible for frequent travelers who are always jetting off somewhere new – often at the last minute.

Just keep in mind that annual travel insurance plans tend to come with lower coverage limits than plans for single trips, and that you'll pay a premium for coverage that comes with comprehensive benefits and high limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Basic Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best for Medical
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• Trawick International: Best for the Cost

Tailor your annual travel insurance plan to your needs

Most plans include coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, travel delays, medical expenses, and more

Lowest-tier plans (AllTrips Basic and AllTrips Prime) come with no or relatively low coverage limits for trip cancellation

Most annual plans (except for AllTrips Premier) do not cover trips longer than 45 days

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to between $2,000 and $15,000
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to between $2,000 and $15,000
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to $50,000
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical transportation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for lost or damaged baggage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage delays
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $1,500 ($300 daily limit)
• Rental car coverage worth up to $45,000
• Up to $50,000 in travel accident coverage
• 24-hour hotline assistance and concierge service

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Annual Travel Insurance Plan offers year-round travel insurance protection

Relatively high limits for medical expenses ($50,000) and emergency evacuation ($500,000)

No trip cancellation coverage and relatively low limit ($2,500) for trip interruption coverage

No coverage for preexisting medical conditions

• Up to $2,500 in coverage for trip interruption
• Up to $1,500 in coverage for trip delays of five-plus hours ($150 per day limit)
• Missed connection coverage worth up to $500
• Up to $2,500 in baggage insurance
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $1,000 for delays of at least 12 hours.
• Up to $50,000 for emergency medical expenses ($500 for emergency dental sublimit)
• Up to $500,000 for emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Up to $50,000 in accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
• Up to $100,000 in protection for security evacuation

Provides coverage worth up to $250,000 for emergency medical expenses

Tailor other included benefit levels to your needs

Coverage only applies to trips up to 40 days

Deductible up to $100 applies for emergency medical coverage and baggage and personal effects

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to between $2,500 and $10,000
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cancellation limit
• Up to $2,000 in trip delay coverage ($200 daily limit)
• Up to $1,000 in protection for missed connections
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses ($50,000 in New Hampshire)
• $750 dental sublimit within emergency medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($100 daily limit)
• 24/7 travel assistance services

Get annual coverage for medical expenses and routine medical care

High limits for medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation

GeoBlue plans don't offer comprehensive travel protection

Deductibles and copays apply

• Ambulatory and therapeutic services
• Inpatient hospital services
• Emergency medical services
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Preventive and primary care

Choose among three tiers of annual travel protection

Option for basic protection with affordable premiums

No coverage for preexisting conditions

Maximum trip duration of 30 days per trip

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $2,500 maximum per year
• Trip interruption coverage up to $2,500 maximum per year
• $200 per trip for trip delays (up to $100 per day for delays of 12 hours or longer)
• Up to $500 in coverage per trip for baggage and personal effects
• Baggage delay coverage up to $100 per trip
• Up to $10,000 for emergency medical expenses per trip
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage per trip
• Up to $10,000 in AD&D coverage
• 24-hour travel assistance services

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert who has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world. On a personal level, her family uses an annual travel insurance policy from Allianz. Johnson works alongside her husband, Greg – who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states – within their family media business and travel agency .

You might also be interested in:

The 5 Best Family Travel Insurance Plans

Holly Johnson

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8 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

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The 6 Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans

Protect your trip and give yourself peace of mind with the top options.

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

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

8 travel insurance mistakes to avoid before your next cruise

The potential for unexpected and disruptive mishaps during your cruise is not something to ignore. Flight delays can lead to missed embarkations . A sudden medical emergency can result in passengers getting abandoned during port stops. Cruise lines can go bankrupt and strand travelers abroad.

As a consumer advocate, I receive hundreds of help requests each year from distraught cruisers whose trips didn't go as planned. Each time, I'm struck by how different their situation might have been if they'd only purchased an insurance policy. Cruise travel insurance can often save the day if you get hit by a surprise calamity before or during your cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Of course, though, that's only true if you have a policy with the correct type of insurance coverage. Travel insurance mistakes and misunderstandings are common among cruise ship passengers and can lead to travelers finding themselves uninsured or under-insured when they encounter a problem on their trip.

That's something TPG wants to help you avoid. Here are the most common cruise travel insurance mistakes I've encountered so you will know how to make better choices for your next vacation at sea.

Not buying travel insurance because you expect to take the cruise

Not even considering travel insurance is by far the top mistake I see made by cruise ship passengers. I'm always surprised when a cruiser tells me they didn't buy travel insurance because they didn't expect to cancel their trip.

This is a common defense offered by travelers caught in expensive situations that travel insurance would have easily covered.

The idea that you don't need travel insurance because you don't expect to cancel your cruise is flawed at its most basic level. The fact is, travel insurance is meant to protect you from unexpected events that cause you to cancel or interrupt your cruise.

Before you reject the idea of travel insurance to protect your next cruise, consider what will happen if:

• You get sick or injured before or during the trip.
• You lose your job and can't afford to go.
• You or a family member is hospitalized or dies.
• Your flight is canceled or delayed and you miss embarkation.
• The airline loses your bags on the way to the cruise ship.

That's just a sampling of surprise events that comprehensive travel insurance could cover (depending on the policy). However, if you don't have a policy protecting you and you're in your cruise contract's penalty zone, you will miss your vacation and won't get your money back.

Related: Is travel insurance worth it?

Not budgeting for travel insurance

Another frequent excuse I hear from cruise ship passengers about why they didn't purchase travel insurance is the cost. That can be a short-sighted decision, though; if something goes wrong, an uninsured traveler can end up owing far more than the price of a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

Consider what would happen if you had an accident during a shore excursion and needed to be medically evacuated. Those emergency services can easily cost $50,000 or more, depending on your location. During a recent cruise to Antarctica, I was required by Aurora Expeditions to have $250,000 of medical evacuation insurance. Traveling to remote locations — or even not-so-remote locations — without medical evacuation coverage could be life-altering if you end up in a catastrophic emergency.

If you intend to spend thousands of dollars to take a cruise, it's always a good idea to budget some of your vacation funds for a travel insurance policy that minimally covers medical care and evacuation home. If you don't, you leave yourself wide open to medical bills, cancellation penalties and more.

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

Buying travel 'protection' from your tour operator

A handful of tour operators and cruise lines sell something called "Travel Protection" or "Travel Waiver," which a sales rep will offer to you when you purchase your cruise. If you're booking online, a pop-up will appear before you complete your reservation. It will say something like "Warning! Protect your investment with our Travel Protection Plan" or "Get peace of mind with Travel Protection."

This product isn't called travel insurance because it isn't travel insurance — it's a hybrid product.

The travel insurance industry is highly regulated. If you buy a policy through an actual travel insurance company, you will be protected by specific laws and regulations. If you have a complaint about your travel insurance policy or claim, you can escalate your problem to your state's insurance board .

Most importantly, travel insurance companies have underwriters, so consumers have a safety net if something goes catastrophically wrong with the travel insurance company.

If you purchase travel protection instead, many safety protocols meant to protect consumers who buy travel insurance will not apply to you.

Before buying one of these policies, it's critical to understand what you're purchasing. Travel Protection has two parts:

Part A: This is predeparture cancellation protection (the passenger's cancellation) and is a self-insured product provided entirely by the cruise line or tour operator. There is no underwriter. This is often advertised as a "cancel for any reason" policy, but that moniker is often misunderstood by the travelers who buy this product. I'll explain further below.

Part B: This is post-departure protection and will be an actual travel insurance policy provided by a third-party insurance company. That part of the plan will provide medical coverage, emergency evacuation protection, trip interruption and more.

Because Part A is not a travel insurance product, passengers are putting their "investment" in a precarious situation should the cruise line or tour operator go out of business or become insolvent. If the operator has no money to pay the claims, there is no safety net without an underwriter. Thus, the customers will be left empty-handed.

That's the unfortunate situation that many Vantage Deluxe World Travel customers found themselves in last June. When the tour operator canceled all future tours and filed for bankruptcy , it owed $108 million to roughly 10,000 customers. Many of those would-be travelers had approved Part A (predeparture) Vantage Travel Protection claims and were waiting for payment when the company went belly-up.

Other Vantage customers erroneously believed that Part B of the pricey travel protection plan would protect them under all circumstances — including bankruptcy.

Far too late, these stunned travelers read through their policies and discovered the truth about that expensive protection: It was worthless if the company had no money to pay its bills, and neither part of the plan had an insolvency or bankruptcy clause.

Of course, that is an extreme case. A typical cruise ship passenger is much more likely to encounter a less dramatic issue with this type of travel protection, usually regarding "cancel for any reason" coverage .

Travel protection policies are often advertised as having "cancel for any reason" coverage, but the fine print reveals that only a few specific circumstances allow a traveler to cancel and receive a cash refund. For anything not listed as a legitimate reason to cancel for a monetary payment, the cruiser will receive a future travel voucher.

If you choose to buy a travel protection product instead of a travel insurance policy, make absolutely certain you read through the entire document and understand what you're buying.

Related: The 5 best cruise travel insurance plans

Assuming your health insurance will cover you on the ship

Hopefully, you'll never discover through experience that shipboard medical care can come at an astronomical cost. Many cruise passengers have learned this lesson only after falling ill during their trip. But the worst news comes after the bill arrives: Most domestic health insurance plans — including basic Medicare — do not provide international coverage.

That means as soon as your cruise ship sails into international waters, you're medically uninsured. Any healthcare bills you accrue during your trip will be your responsibility.

It's not hard to imagine just how expensive and devastating it could be for an uninsured cruiser who becomes sick or injured on vacation. To make matters worse, cruise lines and foreign hospitals expect payment at the time services are rendered. No matter the circumstances, you'll be expected to pay immediately.

And I do mean no matter what the circumstances. A widow once contacted me soon after her husband had suddenly died aboard Holland America 's Eurodam.

The shock of losing her spouse was made even worse by what she viewed as the callous attitude of the crew member who handed her a bill for her husband's failed treatment — and expected her to pay before she was disembarked at the next port of call.

Unfortunately, that couple had assumed their Medicare plan was protecting them during their Caribbean cruise. It wasn't. (Note: There are supplementary Medigap plans that can provide international health care benefits for Medicare beneficiaries. These policies come at an additional cost and have coverage limitations and caps. Before using one, travelers should review all the details of the plan.)

While this woman's situation was extreme, accidents and illnesses happen all the time on fun-filled cruises. You don't want a lack of insurance to make those events more catastrophic than they are.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide not only healthcare coverage abroad but also medical evacuation and repatriation — services that can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Related: What happens if you get sick on a cruise?

Not reading and understanding the travel insurance policy

Travel insurance policies are many pages long and often contain confusing terms. Many travelers buy policies that seem acceptable, and they gloss over the details. However, if you don't review and understand the travel insurance policy you've purchased, that mistake can have giant repercussions.

A one-size-fits-all travel insurance policy does not exist. The choices of travel insurance products available for cruise ship passengers are extensive, with options from basic to full coverage.

To know exactly which protections you've purchased, you must thoroughly read all the details of your plan. Each policy will have a list of named perils. If something on that list causes the cancellation or interruption of your trip, you can claim coverage. If the circumstances you're facing are not on that list, you're out of luck.

Not only should you pay attention to the named covered events, but equally important are the exclusions — conditions that can invalidate your policy. For instance, if you're planning on zip lining, bungee jumping, rock climbing or participating in any other extreme adventure, you'll want to make sure your policy doesn't exclude risky activities.

The travel insurance industry provides a generous lookover period, usually 10 to 15 days after purchase. Always use that two-week window to carefully review your policy. Do not skim over details you don't understand and hope for the best. If you need help understanding the fine print, contact the travel insurance company for clarification.

If you determine during that time that the policy doesn't provide the coverage you want and need, you can request a refund and continue your search. After that lookover period, your travel insurance policy is neither refundable nor changeable.

Related: The best travel insurance policies and providers

Waiting too long to purchase travel insurance for the cruise

A common mistake some cruise ship passengers make is waiting too long to buy travel insurance.

The general rule of thumb is that if you intend to insure your trip, you should purchase that protection at the same time you start to make prepaid, nonrefundable reservations. That includes airfare, excursions, pre- or post-cruise hotels and anything else for which you will not receive a refund if you need to cancel the trip.

Travel insurance coverage typically begins to protect you the day after you purchase the policy. So, at any time after that, if a covered event happens to you and causes you to cancel your trip, you'll be protected from financial penalties. Of course, if you wait too long to purchase your travel insurance for your cruise and an unexpected event occurs, you won't be able to buy a retroactive policy.

If you enter the cancellation penalty phase of your cruise contract, you've waited too long to buy travel insurance. In fact, some companies won't allow you to purchase travel insurance after that date.

Not disclosing a preexisting condition

Not disclosing a preexisting condition is a travel insurance mistake that can have devastating consequences. Although buying a policy that covers a preexisting condition is possible, it's a bit more complicated.

Cruise ship passengers with preexisting conditions should be aware that their window to purchase travel insurance is abbreviated. Most travel insurance companies require travelers with preexisting conditions to purchase travel insurance within 14 to 21 days after making their initial trip deposit.

If you've been diagnosed with any medical problems in the 12 months preceding your trip or have a persistent condition, you must be certain to:

• Buy a policy that specifically names coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Make your travel insurance purchase within the first 14 to 21 days after putting a deposit down on your trip.

Cruisers who file a travel insurance claim for a medical problem related to a preexisting condition will be at great risk of having that claim rejected.

Underinsuring the cost of the entire cruise package

Travel insurance can significantly increase the cost of your cruise vacation. Prices vary based on the level of protection you choose, the age of all travelers on the policy, the length of the trip and the state where you live. If you wish to be fully protected, it's critical not to undervalue your trip.

If you lowball the cost of your cruise and something goes wrong, your claim will only be paid based on the value of what you insured. Passengers who have purchased an annual insurance plan should pay careful attention to the limits on their policy. It can be easy to accidentally underinsure your cruise if you're relying on an annual travel insurance policy with a per-trip or per-year cap.

Cruise ship passengers should always insure every nonrefundable, prepaid part of their itinerary. That includes the cruise, airfare, hotels and third-party excursions.

Bottom line

Cruise travel insurance can provide peace of mind and protection from the repercussions of unexpected events that could ruin your vacation and wreck your wallet.

Purchasing travel insurance does not have to be a chore. Follow these easy steps for success:

• Use a website like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth to compare various policies and cruise travel insurance providers.
• Read your policy and ensure you understand what's covered and how to file a claim if needed.
• Carry a copy of your travel insurance card during your cruise, which will have a toll-free number if you need help.
• Enjoy your cruise.

If you have a problem with a travel insurance company, cruise line, airline, car rental agency or hotel, send your request for help to [email protected] , and I'll be happy to investigate.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Travel insurance

What does travel delay insurance cover?

Mandy Sleight

Alyce Meserve

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Heidi Gollub

Published 12:35 p.m. UTC Aug. 20, 2024

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• Travel delay coverage offers benefits for accommodations, communications, local transportation and meals when your trip is delayed for a covered reason.
• The required time before travel delay insurance kicks in will vary by policy, but it is usually between three and 12 consecutive hours.
• The typical travel delay coverage benefit ranges from $100 to $300 daily with a maximum limit of $100 to $5,000.

How does trip delay insurance work? 

Travel insurance can provide multiple benefits, including travel delay coverage. “Trip delay coverage can reimburse you for expenses incurred if you are delayed for a covered reason on your way to your destination, during your trip or on your way home,” said Angela Borden, product specialist at travel insurance provider Seven Corners.

Air carrier mechanical issues, inclement weather, mandatory quarantines, natural disasters and unannounced strikes are common reasons you might get reimbursed by trip delay coverage, said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com.

The travel delay benefit amount will vary by insurance policy, and you must be delayed for a minimum number of hours to qualify. Coverage is typically between $100 and $300 per day, up to a maximum per trip of $100 to $5,000. It will kick in after you are delayed between three and 12 consecutive hours, depending on your travel insurance plan. 

“For example, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s ExactCare plan will provide up to $200 a day ($1,000 maximum) reimbursement for qualified expenses when a trip is delayed five or more hours,” said Carol Mueller, vice president of Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection.

Lauren Gumport, vice president of communications and brand at Faye Travel Insurance said a Faye plan may reimburse up to $300 per day, or $4,500 per trip, after a delay of six hours or more.

As you can see, the features of a specific insurance policy will vary by provider and level of coverage. Premium plans typically have shorter delay waiting periods with higher reimbursement maximums than economy plans. Comparing travel insurance plans and providers can help you find the best travel insurance policy with the types of coverage and levels of compensation you need to cover your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.

Does trip delay insurance differ from trip delay benefits on a credit card?

Many credit cards offer trip delay coverage as a benefit. However, the amount is usually lower than what a travel insurance policy covers . Most credit cards will only cover up to $500 per trip or ticket, and you must purchase your nonrefundable trip expenses using the same credit card to be eligible.

A credit card’s covered reason list may also be more restrictive than a travel insurance plan. Credit cards might require longer minimum delay time and fewer covered delay reasons. Although having trip delay benefits on an eligible card is nice, it may not be enough to cover the additional expenses you incur if you experience a flight delay.

What does trip delay insurance cover?

Although travel insurance plans vary in what they cover, trip delay insurance typically covers accommodations, communications, meals and local transportation. “Trip delay benefits can only reimburse you if the delay was triggered for a covered reason and if the delay was for the required length of time, both of which will be outlined in your plan,” said Borden.

Let’s say severe weather delays your flight for five hours and ultimately cancels it. The airline can get you and your traveling companions on another flight, but the next available flight isn’t until the following day. Now, you have additional costs for a hotel room, meals and a cab to and from the hotel. 

Because severe weather is listed as an acceptable reason in your travel insurance policy, making it a covered delay, your trip delay insurance can help. You’ll file a claim for reimbursement of the money you spent on your unplanned overnight stay up to the coverage limits. 

“Every policy and provider are different and will have a list of what is a covered reason for a delay. It is important to read through your policy before purchasing it — to be sure you know what is and is not covered,” said Suzanne Morrow, senior vice president for InsureMyTrip.

Expert tip: It’s important to note that trip delay insurance only covers reasonable additional expenses. So if you go to a high-end, expensive restaurant and stay at the most expensive hotel, you may only get partial reimbursement or none at all.

Trip delay vs. trip interruption insurance

Trip delay insurance covers certain delays that occur while traveling to your destination or while returning home at the end of your trip. Trip interruption insurance is another common benefit included in travel insurance policies that can help if you have to cut your trip short to return home early for a covered reason. This coverage can reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses you lose by ending your trip early, plus the additional cost of a new, one-way, economy ticket home. 

Here are some common reasons you might use your trip interruption benefits:

• You or your traveling companion get sick or injured while traveling and can’t complete your trip.
• Severe weather causes your destination accommodations or home to become uninhabitable. 
• A death in the family causes you to cancel mid-trip and return home.

Travel Insured

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Top-scoring plan

Worldwide Trip Protector

Covers COVID?

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$100,000/$1 million

Atlas Journey Preferred

Seven Corners

RoundTrip Basic

$500,000/$1 million

How to file a trip delay insurance claim

If you experience a trip delay that exceeds the waiting period listed in your travel insurance policy, you should notify your insurer as soon as possible. 

Document and provide essential details, like:

• Names of airline representatives you spoke to.
• What they said and when/where you talked with them.
• The reason for the delay.
• Efforts you took to continue your trip, such as accepting an alternative itinerary. 

You’ll also need receipts for the additional reasonable expenses, proof of delay from the airline and the original itinerary.

Each insurance company may have a different process and conditions for filing claims, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the requirements before you leave.

Trip delay insurance FAQs

If you experience a delay en route to your destination or on the way home, trip delay insurance can reimburse you for extra expenses you incur, such as meals and a hotel. Typical covered reasons for trip delay benefits include common carrier delays caused by bad weather, mechanical failure and strike. Your travel insurance policy will list a waiting period, which is the number of hours you must be delayed before coverage begins, a daily limit and a maximum limit for coverage.

If you’re on your way to your destination, or on your way home at the end of your trip, and experience a covered delay such as a canceled flight due to severe weather, you may be eligible to file a trip delay claim. The waiting period for trip delay coverage to begin varies by travel insurance plan but is usually between three and 12 consecutive hours. Delay waiting period, covered reasons and coverage limits vary by insurer and specific insurance policy.

Travelers with trip delay insurance can claim necessary expenses, like lodging, food and transportation, that occur because of a covered trip delay. For instance, if winter weather grounded flights for 15 hours. Your trip delay benefits may reimburse you for a night at a hotel, a cab to and from the airport and meals that you had to pay for out of pocket because of the delay. 

Want to protect your next trip? What does travel insurance cover?

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Alyce Meserve is an experienced insurance, personal finance and travel writer. Alyce is a licensed insurance professional in life, health and property and casualty, and holds an Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duke University.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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When Does Travel Insurance Cover Existing Medical Conditions?

Travel insurance is more than a perk or a “nice to have.” A  travel insurance plan  can save your travel investment if you must cancel your trip for covered health reasons caused by pre-existing medical conditions. But in order for this to happen, you’ll need to select a plan that offers a Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver, and also meet specified conditions. Additionally,  emergency medical coverage  can reimburse you for the costs of getting covered medical treatment domestically or overseas.

What is a Pre-Existing Condition?

We know this can seem complicated. We’re here to help. Before we jump into the details of how you can obtain a travel insurance plan that can cover a pre-existing condition, let’s define exactly what we’re talking about. Quite simply, a pre-existing condition is an injury, illness or medical condition that caused someone to seek treatment, presented symptoms, or required medication. This may have taken place anytime within 120 days prior to and including the plan’s purchase date. Note that you don’t even need an official medical diagnosis from a physician for something to be considered a pre-existing condition.

How to Meet Conditions for a Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion Waiver

We know that the term is a mouthful, but the conditions needed to qualify for a Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion Waiver are fairly straightforward.

First and foremost, you must insure your full nonrefundable trip costs. From there, if you insure the full cost of your trip within 14 days of paying your first trip deposit, and you're medically able to travel when you do so, you can be covered for most existing medical conditions. We’re going to cover each of these conditions a bit more in depth below.

Note that all travel insurance plans cover existing medical conditions. Certain travel insurance products from Allianz Global Assistance do — but specific requirements apply. Below are three hypothetical examples to help you understand how to make sure your existing medical condition is covered.

For travel insurance to cover your pre-existing condition, you must be medically able to travel on the day you purchase your plan.

After suffering debilitating pain in your left knee for three years, you've finally scheduled a total knee replacement. You get the procedure done and find that your recovery goes more swiftly than expected. After two weeks of physical therapy, your doctor says she's amazed at your progress. Heartened to hear this, you book a cycling trip through the French Alps for the fall and you purchase travel insurance to protect it. If you suffer knee problems and you have to cancel the trip, are you covered?

With a pre-existing medical condition, the safest course of action is to get your physician's certification that you're fine to travel before you book your trip. Allianz Global Assistance’s travel insurance requires you to be medically able to travel on the day you buy your  plan. It doesn't matter if you expect to be able to travel in the future, or if your doctor says you should be able to travel by the time you're scheduled to leave.

Let's say you book that cycling trip and your travel insurance 12 weeks after your surgery, when you're feeling pretty good and you can take long walks around the neighborhood. Don't assume you're medically able to travel. If you end up making a travel insurance claim related to your knee, Allianz Global Assistance may review your medical records and talk to your physician to determine your condition at the time you bought insurance.

One more important thing to understand: the "medically able to travel" only applies to the people named in the insuranceplan . If your mother has uncontrolled diabetes, for instance, you need existing medical condition coverage in case you need to cancel your trip because she's in the hospital. But your mother does not need to be medically able to travel in order for you to be covered.

For a pre-existing medical condition to be covered, you must insure your full nonrefundable trip costs.

You just booked the trip of a lifetime, a two-week European river cruise with your sister. You hold out on buying your plane ticket, however, because you're hoping airfares to Paris will drop. A few weeks later, you grab that cheap ticket — whew! — but you forget to update your plan by adding the airfare cost to your coverage. Then, a week before departure, your sister (who has long suffered from hypertension) has a major change in her medication and her doctor won’t let her travel. Will travel insurance cover your trip cancellation?

Your travel companion's condition would have been considered a covered reason for trip cancellation if you had insured your full trip costs. Because you didn't, your travel insurance plan would not cover cancellations caused by pre-existing medical conditions. If you had to cancel for another covered reason — because the covered cruise operator went out of business, for instance — your travel insurance would cover the trip cancellation.

Travel insurance only covers pre-existing medical conditions if you buy your plan within 14 days (depending on your plan) of making your first trip payment or deposit.

You and your husband are both nature lovers, and to celebrate your 25th anniversary you're planning a two-week stay at a luxury eco-resort in Costa Rica. You buy travel insurance to protect your trip investment, but not until  three weeks  after the trip purchase. Because you waited, pre-existing medical conditions aren't covered. No problem, you think. You're both fit and healthy. Except your husband has had some urinary problems over the past few months, so you make him go to the urologist before the trip. Bad news: he has a prostate condition that will keep him grounded. It's treatable, but you'll have to cancel the trip. Is this trip cancellation covered?

For Allianz Global Assistance travel insurance plans, an existing medical condition is defined as an illness or injury that exhibited symptoms or was treated any time 120 days prior to purchasing your plan. In this instance, your trip cancellation due to an existing medical condition would have been covered if you had bought travel insurance within  14 days  of paying your first trip deposit.

Three more things you need to know about travel insurance and existing medical conditions

• Certain pre-existing medical conditions are excluded from Allianz Global Assistance’s travel insurance coverage, such as mental and nervous health conditions, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer's disease.
• There's a cap on trip costs when you're buying travel insurance with pre-existing medical condition coverage, so be sure to know the amounts.
• You must be a U.S. resident to buy travel insurance with existing medical condition coverage.

We encourage customers to contact our insurance advisers at 1-866-884-3556. They'll answer your questions and help you find the travel insurance plan that's best for your unique needs. Safe travels!

Related Articles

• Emergency Medical Insurance for Travel
• Medical Travel Insurance Benefits
• How to Use Your Trip Delay Benefit and When to Cancel

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

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Best Annual Travel Insurance in 2024

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If you’re a frequent traveler, annual travel insurance may be something you’ve been considering. Unlike single-trip insurance, annual travel insurance plans can cover you for an entire year, no matter how often you’re on the road.

Let’s look at the best yearly travel insurance companies, why we choose them and the coverage you can expect.

Factors we considered when picking travel insurance companies

We used the following criteria when choosing which companies we thought were best:

Cost . Annual plans can be expensive — depending on the type of coverage you choose — so we wanted ensure that they stayed affordable. 

Types of coverage . Travel insurance for annual travelers can be limited in its coverage. We picked the ones with the broadest range of coverage for possible travel disruptions.

Coverage amounts . Annual trip insurance isn’t worth much if your limits are too low. Instead, we wanted plans with reasonable coverage amounts. 

Customizability . If your travels take you to different places, you’ll want the ability to customize your plan. The best annual travel insurance plans can provide this. 

» Learn more: What does travel insurance cover?

An overview of the best annual travel insurance

We gathered quotes from various travel insurance companies to determine the best annual travel insurance policies. In these examples, we used a year-long trip by a 22-year-old from Alabama. We indicated the main countries of travel as France and Malaysia, and when asked, put the total trip costs at $6,000.

The average cost for an annual travel insurance plan came out to $220. The plans ranged from $138-$386.

Let’s take a closer look at our top recommendations for annual travel insurance.

1. Allianz Travel

What makes Allianz travel insurance great:

Lower than average cost.

Provides health care and travel insurance benefits.

Includes rental car insurance up to $45,000. 

Here’s a snippet from our Allianz Travel insurance review :

“AllTrips Basic (annual plan) is suitable for those who would like emergency medical coverage while abroad but don't need trip cancellation and interruption benefits. The AllTrips Prime, Executive and Premier plans provide an entire year of comprehensive travel insurance benefits.

The Executive and Premier plans offer various levels of trip cancellation and interruption benefits. The Executive plan is specifically designed for business travelers since it offers protection for business equipment.”

2. Seven Corners

What makes Seven Corners great:

Offers up to $20,000 for acute coverage of pre-existing conditions. 

Includes up to $1 million for emergency medical evacuation. 

Optional add-on for adventure sport activities.

$0 deductible available. 

Here’s a snippet from our Seven Corners review :

“Seven Corners offers one annual policy called Travel Medical Annual Multi-Trip. The policy can be customized depending on how long you plan to be away from home for any one trip. You can travel as much as you like during the 364 days, so long as any one trip doesn’t exceed the option selected — 30, 45 or 60 days.”

What makes IMG great:

Good customizability with medical evacuations and sports coverage. 

Low $250 deductible.

Includes coverage for semi-private hospital rooms. 

Here’s a snippet from our IMG review:

“Some policies provide emergency medical evacuation coverage, while others skip this benefit entirely. This benefit may be more important to you if you travel to a remote location or engage in physical activity such as trekking.

More comprehensive plans may include other benefits such as assistance with acquiring a new passport, reimbursing reward mile redeposit fees or coverage for pre-existing conditions. If these are something you’re interested in, be sure to check that your policy includes these options.”

4. Trawick International

What makes Trawick International great:

100% coverage for trip cancellation and trip interruption. 

Emergency medical evacuation included. 

Trip delay reimbursement coverage. 

Here’s a snippet from our Trawick International review :

“Trawick International is a comprehensive travel insurance provider that offers trip delay and cancellation insurance, baggage delay coverage, medical coverage and medical evacuation, rental car damage protection, and even COVID-19 coverage among its various policies.

Trawick covers trips for worldwide destinations, including for foreign nationals coming to the U.S.”

What does travel insurance cover?

You’ll find a wide variety of coverage types offered by travel insurance policies. This is true whether you're purchasing a single-trip or annual travel insurance plan. Here are some common types you can expect to find:

Accidental death insurance .

Baggage delay and lost luggage insurance .

Cancel for Any Reason insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance .

Medical insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Trip delay insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

How to choose the best annual travel insurance policy

While we’ve highlighted some of the best annual travel insurance companies, the truth is that the best plan for you isn’t going to be the best plan for someone else. If you’re interested in buying annual travel insurance, you’ll want to collect a variety of quotes to see which policy best fits your needs.

This may mean opting for a plan that covers pre-existing conditions or one that specifically includes high-risk activities. Or, if you’re in a country where health care is notoriously expensive, you may want to choose a policy with higher maximums.

Many credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance .

Whatever the case, do your research first and review all the plan details before making your purchase.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

If you want to buy annual travel insurance

Annual travel insurance can be a great option if you’re often out of town. With such a wide range of policies available, selecting a plan that fits your needs is easy. We’ve done some of the work for you by choosing the best annual travel insurance companies, all of which made the top of the list for their cost, customizability, types of coverage and plan maximums.

Like any travel insurance policy, the cost of your plan is going to vary. Factors that may affect the cost of your annual travel insurance include your age, where you’re going, how long you’ll be traveling, your policy maximums and whether preexisting conditions are included.

Although not all travel insurance providers offer annual travel insurance, many of them do. We’ve gathered together the five best, including Allianz Travel, World Nomads, Seven Corners, IMG and Trawick International.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

• What is travel insurance?
• Average cost
• When to buy travel insurance
• Average cost by age
• What does travel insurance cover?

Travel Insurance Cost: Average Travel Insurance Prices in 2024

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

• The average travel insurance premium this week is $297.42, down about 0.38% compared to last week.
• For travel in the United States, the average premium is $175 to $350.
• Travel insurance protects against delayed baggage, trip cancellation, and more.

The average cost of travel insurance fluctuates throughout the year, based on demand and whether or not school's in session. Also keep in mind that where you're traveling and how many people are taking the trip will affect your exact premium.

Understanding Travel Insurance

Travel insurance plans can cover both domestic and international travel. It could protect against something as familiar as delayed baggage (experts estimate 85% of lost luggage is returned to its owner within 48 hours) or as complicated as trip cancellation.

The benefits and limitations of travel insurance vary based on the company and plan. Above all else, this insurance coverage offers peace of mind.

Some credit cards offer a limited amount of travel insurance annually. If you need clarification on what your credit card offers, contact your provider to verify. These plans are great for cancellations and interruptions but may not cover more costly losses associated with unexpected medical expenses or emergency evacuations.

Individual travel insurance plans include this and much more. Travel insurance protects travelers from the unexpected when away from home.

Average Cost of Travel Insurance by Destination

Some countries are naturally more expensive travel destinations due to higher flight and lodging costs, which could increase travel insurance costs. Travel insurance will generally cost 5% to 10% of your total trip price, according to SquareMouth travel insurance .

Here's how the prices stack up:

Source: SquareMouth

How Far in Advance to Purchase Travel Insurance

According to an AAA travel survey , 88% of travelers say that reimbursement after a trip cancellation is the most valuable benefit of trip insurance.

According to data gathered by SquareMouth in the last six months, travelers tend to purchase trip cancellation travel insurance 53 days before their trip. Meanwhile, travelers without trip cancellation insurance will buy a policy approximately 16 days before their trip. Regardless of when you buy, cancellation protection can kick in to protect you against the unexpected.

Average Cost of Travel Insurance by Age

A traveler's age is a significant factor in determining the cost of travel insurance. The older a traveler is, the higher travel insurance premiums are. For instance, a senior traveler may need more insurance for health-related emergencies than a millennial.

When calculating your travel insurance premium, travel insurance providers consider the likelihood of a medical emergency.

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Travel Insurance Rate Tips

Travel insurance rates through most providers fall between 4% and 8% of the total trip cost. Like the cost of flights, cruises, etc., rates may vary substantially based on the season, your original location, your destination, and other factors. This week, the average cost of a policy was close to $300.

To save money on travel insurance, tailor your policy to your specific needs and avoid unnecessary extras. You should also shop around to compare quotes from multiple insurers. Opting for an annual plan if you're a frequent traveler, checking existing coverages from other insurance policies or credit card benefits, and choosing a policy with a higher deductible can significantly lower your premiums. Always read the fine print to understand your coverage fully, ensuring you don't pay for redundant or irrelevant features.

To find affordable travel insurance, consider using online comparison websites like SquareMouth or InsureMyTrip to see rates from various providers. Other ways to save include purchasing directly from insurance companies, exploring package deals from travel agencies or airlines, utilizing included coverage from credit card benefits, and checking for discounts through membership organizations such as AAA or AARP.

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

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

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4/20/2022 dec 6, 2022 • knowledge, information, help center version.

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This help center contains highlights of the plans developed by Travel Insured International, which include travel insurance coverages underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, Principal Office located in Morristown, New Jersey, under form series T7000 et al, T210 et al and TP-401 et al, and non-insurance Travel Assistance Services provided by C&F Services and for WTP Cruise only, AwayCare and Blue Ribbon Bags.The terms of insurance coverages in the plans may vary by jurisdiction and not all insurance coverages are available in all jurisdictions. Insurance coverages in these plans are subject to terms, limitations and exclusions including an exclusion for pre-existing medical conditions. In most states, your travel retailer is not a licensed insurance producer/agent, and is not qualified or authorized to answer technical questions about the terms, benefits, exclusions and conditions of the insurance offered or to evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance coverage. Your travel retailer may be compensated for the purchase of a plan and may provide general information about the plans offered, including a description of the coverage and price. The purchase of travel insurance is not required in order to purchase any other product or service from your travel retailer. CA DOI toll free number is 800-927-4357. The cost of your plan is for the entire plan, which consists of both insurance and non-insurance components. Individuals looking to obtain additional information regarding the features and pricing of each travel plan component, please contact Travel Insured International. P.O. Box 6503, Glastonbury, CT 06033; 855-752-8303; [email protected] ; California license #0I13223. While Travel Insured International markets the travel insurance in these plans on behalf of USF, non-insurance components of the plans were added to the plans by C&F Services and for WTP Cruise only, AwayCare and Blue Ribbon Bags, and C&F Services, AwayCare and Blue Ribbon Bags does not receive compensation from USF for providing the non-insurance components of the plans.

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