best travel insurance claims experience

The best travel insurance policies and providers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel insurance providers

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

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

AIG Travel Guard

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

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

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

Preexisting conditions

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

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

Standout features

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

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

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

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

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

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

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

Is travel insurance worth getting?

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

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

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

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

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

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

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

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

What are the different types of travel insurance?

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

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

Should I buy travel health insurance?

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

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

How much does travel insurance cost?

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

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

When and how to get travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

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

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Best Travel Insurance Companies of August 2024

• The best travel insurance company is Faye,  according to our comprehensive analysis of over 49 policies.
• Travel insurance policies offer reimbursement if your trip gets canceled for a covered reason, you incur emergency medical bills, and for other situations such as missed flights or baggage delays.
• According to our survey of 1,000 travel insurance policyholders,  97%  of respondents claim travel insurance is worth the cost.

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Mark Friedlander is a property/casualty insurance industry expert and a national media spokesperson on home, auto, business and life insurance matters. He is also an expert on hurricane insurance coverage and Florida insurance matters.

Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the best travel insurance companies

The Best Travel Insurance of 2024

After reviewing dozens of travel insurance providers operating throughout the U.S., the following are our top recommendations:

• Faye: Our top pick
• Travelex Insurance : Best for budget travelers
• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best for baggage coverage
• Tin Leg Travel Insurance : Best for customizable coverage
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection : Best for luxury travelers
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance: Best for visitors to the USA
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for families
• Trawick International: Best for student travel insurance
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for trip interruption coverage
• Travel Insured International: Best for evacuation coverage

Faye earned 4.6 out of 5 stars and the top spot as the best travel insurance company of 2024 because of its fast and simple sign-up process, direct deposit reimbursement option, and unique compensation for baggage delays.

Why We Picked Faye Travel Insurance

As a platform that prioritizes a digital, entirely online experience, Faye is worth considering if you’re shopping for last-minute coverage, according to our research. You can s imply answer a few questions about your upcoming trip, adjust your coverage limit and buy a comprehensive travel insurance plan in just a few minutes. In addition, Faye can send reimbursement directly to your phone’s digital wallet if you file a claim and it’s approved, which means you won’t need to wait for reimbursement by a check in the mail. While Faye offers only one plan choice, its general coverage inclusions may fit vacationers seeking quick coverage and a digital experience.

Pros and Cons

Our ratings, coverage overview.

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

Optional Add-Ons 

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

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

We obtained premium costs for seven trips as outlined in our review methodology, and Faye’s average trip cost is $297.87.

Why We Picked Travelex

Travelex is our top choice for travelers taking budget vacations and trying to prioritize policy price over other factors, according to our research. Travelex’s plans can be low-cost for some — depending on your vacation’s value, you could qualify for flat-rate coverage of $60 per traveler, which is less than half of the average cost of travel insurance. It also offers a flat-rate Travel America plan for domestic trips. While Travelex’s Travel Basic plan provides affordable international coverage, note that optional adventure sports, additional medical protection and CFAR insurance are not available with this plan.

Travelex’s base plan, the Travel Basic coverage, includes 100% protection for both trip cancellation and interruption. It also includes $15,000 worth of emergency medical coverage, $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage and $500 for lost baggage. Travelex’s Travel Select plan extends additional coverage, such as sporting equipment delay benefits of $200 and you can include kids with your policy.

Travelex offers the following add-ons for the Travel Select policy:

• CFAR coverage (50% reimbursement)
• Medical expense extension (extends coverage to $50,000)
• Adventure sports waiver for medical expenses coverage
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) extension (extends coverage to $25,000)

*Higher medical and evacuation coverage limits are available on other policies. Contact the company to learn more. 

We obtained premium costs for seven trips as outlined in our review methodology, and Travelex’s average trip cost is $242.

Nationwide Travel Insurance

Why We Picked Nationwide

Our choice for the maximum coverage reimbursed was Nationwide travel insurance. Depending on your plan choice, it provides 100% trip cancellation coverage and up to 200% trip interruption protection. If you plan to go on a cruise in Europe, unlike most other providers, Nationwide offers two levels of coverage specifically tailored to cruises. The majority of travel insurance companies often do not cover mechanical failures and terrorism in the cities of destination, but these cruise policies do.

Why We Picked Tin Leg

Tin Leg is a travel insurance provider that offers eight individual policy options. With a different level of coverage included in each plan, Tin Leg can make it easy to choose a policy that only includes the protections most important to you. You can tailor your policy to your needs even further with up to 10 add-on options, securing Tin Leg’s spot on our list as the travel insurance provider with the best customization options.

With eight travel insurance policies, Tin Leg’s medical insurance benefits range from $20,000 to $500,000, and its trip interruption coverage ranges from 100% to 150%. Most policies also include unique extra coverages not found with some other providers — like sports equipment loss and missed connections. The table below summarizes the key coverage included with three of Tin Leg’s most popular plans.

You can also upgrade your plan with the following add-on options — though available choices will vary depending on your base policy selection.

• CFAR coverage
• Financial defaults
• Cancel for work reasons
• Terrorism disruption
• Employment layoff
• Missed connections
• Sports and activities coverage
• Identity theft
• Rental car damage

*Higher evacuation coverage limits are available on other policies. Contact the company to learn more.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Why We Picked Berkshire Hathaway

If you’re planning a luxury vacation, you may have trouble finding an insurance provider to insure your trip’s total value. Berkshire Hathaway’s LuxuryCare travel insurance plans cover 100% of your trip costs up to $100,000, which is why we’ve named the provider our pick for luxury travelers. We like that it provides high coverage limits for lost luggage — a perk if you’re traveling with high-end items that would result in expensive replacement costs if lost or stolen. It also offers a series of specialized standard travel plans, including an AdrenalineCare policy specifically for sports travelers and WaveCare for cruises.

Berkshire Hathaway offers three general plans and more specialized coverage options. You’ll find a series of nine total plan options in most parts of the country, but we recommend the all-inclusive LuxuryCare and ExactCare Extra plans for high-value vacations.

The table below summarizes the inclusions found on some of Berkshire Hathaway’s most popular travel insurance plans.

Berkshire Hathaway allows you to add the following add-on options to your plan:

• CFAR upgrade (up to 50% trip reimbursement)
• Rental car collision damage
• Pre-existing conditions waiver

Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Why We Picked Seven Corners

For Seven Corners, buying an annual plan rather than several single-trip plans might be more cost-effective if you go to Europe frequently or are abroad on a student visa. Instead of purchasing new insurance every time, you can pay a single fee to cover several travels in a year. An annual plan comes with up to $500,000 in emergency medical coverage, $250,000 in travel medical coverage, and other benefits. All plans come with 24/7 travel help that is available worldwide. We think this plan is cost-effective for frequent travelers even though it lacks quality delay insurance.

AIG Travel Guard

Why We Picked AIG

When shopping for travel insurance as a group or family, high combined premiums might deter some customers from purchasing coverage. We chose AIG Travel Guard as the best travel insurance provider for families because select plans — like the Deluxe policy — include one child under the age of 17 with the purchase of adult coverage. AIG also offers generous discounts on group travel coverage, which you can purchase with just a few clicks online. This can make AIG a solid choice for anyone looking for last-minute trip cancellation insurance, especially if you’re traveling with multiple people and prefer the ease of purchasing one policy instead of several.

AIG’s primary travel insurance product is its international travel plans, which provide 100% trip cancellation insurance, up to $1,000 in trip delay coverage, up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage and other benefits commonly found with competitors. It also offers two unique policy options: the quick approval Pack-N-Go plan and an annual plan for frequent flyers.

AIG offers three travel insurance plans, all of which include family coverage:

It also offers the following add-ons:

• CFAR coverage (up to 50% reimbursement)
• Vendor financial default coverage
• Missed connection benefit ($150)

*Higher medical and evacuation coverage limits are available on other policies. Contact the company to learn more.

Trawick International

Why We Picked Trawick International

Trawick is our pick for student travel insurance. While it offers more than 20 individual travel insurance policies with standard inclusions, Trawick is most notable for its unique options for students studying abroad, which can make the process of obtaining required insurance easier. The International Student and Scholar Medical Evacuation plan is an affordable option that meets the requirements of multiple international visas stipulating evacuation insurance. It also offers annual trip cancellation plans and coverage formatted for other types of international visa requirements. However, this plan only provides medical evacuation coverage and not general emergency medical protection, making it less than ideal for travelers concerned with comprehensive medical coverage.

With more than 20 individual plan options, Trawick offers a range of coverage selections. We suggest reviewing each plan option to verify it has the coverage you need, especially if you are traveling on a visa. Compare a few of the company’s most popular policies using the table below.

Add-On Options

Coverage add-ons are not available on Collegiate Care plans.

Generali Global Assistance

Why We Picked Generali Global Assistance

We chose Generali Global Assistance as our pick for emergency assistance coverage because it offers 24/7, concierge-level service to help travelers in various situations. Generali’s travel professionals are multilingual, which can benefit you if you travel to an area where you cannot speak the primary language. In addition, Generali’s higher coverage tiers include protections such as rental car and sports equipment coverage, which other providers usually offer as add-ons.

Generali offers three plan tiers: Standard, Preferred and Premium. The Standard Plan includes a variety of benefits, including 125% trip interruption coverage, $150 per day toward delay-related expenses, $250,000 in medical evacuation coverage, $50,000 worth of medical coverage and more. Preferred and Premium plans extend benefits included with the Standard Plan and add some extras — like sports equipment coverage and rental car collision insurance.

Generali offers the following add-on options:

• CFAR coverage (up to 60% reimbursement)

Travel Insured International

Why We Picked Travel Insured International

We named Travel Insured International as our pick for well-rounded coverage. It offers coverage with various optional add-ons such as event ticket registration fee protection, interruption for any reason (IFAR) and CFAR coverage. The provider even offers optional pet kennel coverage, which could offer peace of mind travelers with furry friends at home. It also provides 24/7 emergency assistance services and extra perks such as concierge services, medical and legal aid and passport replacement help.

How To Choose the Best Travel Insurance

Knowing what to look for when comparing travel insurance providers can help you pick the best plan for your needs. We encourage you to compare brand pricing and policies between multiple providers to help narrow down your available coverage options.

Compare The Best Travel Insurance For International Trips

Comparing the costs of coverage offered by different providers can help you find the most affordable option for your travel insurance needs. See the table below for a direct cost comparison between the companies we’ve chosen as our top picks, as well as Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings and notable coverage limits.

Asking yourself a few key questions can help further simplify your search for travel insurance. Considering the total cost of your trip, your destination, method of travel and any health concerns can help you better understand the type of policy that suits your needs best. 

Was This an Important or Pricey Trip?

The value and price of your trip play a major role in travel insurance pricing. If you’re insuring a higher-value vacation, you may want to look for policies with higher overall coverage limits and travel interruption reimbursements. If you’re taking a budget vacation, you might see more value in an insurer that specializes in low-cost, affordable policies.

Where Are You Headed?

It is also good practice to consider the available amenities and your trip itinerary when shopping for coverage. For example, if you’re traveling to a remote area with a less robust medical system than a city with many options, there could be a higher chance of needing emergency medical evacuation if you end up seriously injured. In this case, we recommend a policy with higher coverage limits on medical evacuation services.

“I recommend that every traveler gets a strong medical evacuation policy. When the worst-case scenario happens, you can get to a hospital of your choice at home. I really push this coverage for folks traveling in Mexico because it’s a short trip to a home hospital.”

How Are You Getting to Your Destination?

If you’re taking a cruise, consider getting a quote from a travel insurance provider that offers cruise-specific coverage, such as Nationwide. While most travel insurance providers design policies to cover the basic risks associated with flying — such as lost luggage, missed connections, etc. — it is worth comparing options that include coverage specific to your trip. For example, those traveling for work may prefer Allianz Global for its business-centered plans.

Do You Have Any Health Concerns?

When thinking about your travel plans, consider if you could need medical services based on your health history and travel itinerary. If you’re older, have a pre-existing health condition , or plan to participate in physical activities or sports, consider a plan with higher medical expense limits. In addition, companies often include COVID-19 treatment under a policy’s standard emergency medical coverage, but it is best to read through coverage terms and conditions to confirm.

Angela Borden, a product marketing specialist at Seven Corners , offered the following advice for travelers:

“Contact your insurance provider to be sure you fully understand the pre-existing conditions coverage for the plan you choose,” she said. “Being prepared and having the information before you need it in an emergency makes a huge difference.”

Is Travel Insurance Required?

In most cases, travel insurance is not required. However, some countries require visitors to have travel insurance due to visa requirements or diplomatic unrest. These countries typically only require proof that your policy covers emergency medical expenses. You can extend your coverage to also protect you against baggage loss, trip delays and cancellations.

Even if your destination does not mandate travel insurance, the U.S. Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens traveling overseas purchase a policy that covers unexpected medical bills while abroad.

When To Skip Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may only be worth it in some scenarios. For instance, if you booked your trip using a credit card that also offers travel insurance protection, you may not need coverage through an additional provider. We encourage you to check the details of your credit card coverage, if applicable, to ensure it aligns with your needs. If so, you can likely skip buying a separate travel insurance policy.

In addition, if you’ve booked your trip with flexible airline tickets or with a hotel that offers a flexible change or cancellation policy, you may not need a travel insurance policy. Also, travelers booking excursions or activities with refundable policies will likely not benefit from a travel insurance plan. 

Finally, note that if you’re a U.S. citizen traveling within the country and have insurance through a domestic provider, you likely will need travel insurance with medical coverage. However, your coverage may not extend abroad, notably if you have a government-issued plan. But if you have private insurance that covers emergency medical expenses abroad, you may not need to purchase a travel insurance plan.

Generally, we encourage you to consider your trip, the overall cost and the flexibility surrounding your reservations when deciding whether or not to skip purchasing a travel insurance policy.

Ask an Expert

“You don’t need to insure trip expenses if they’re already covered by someone else or if you are comfortable losing the money you paid for your trip if you must cancel or interrupt it.”

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

The specifics of what is covered under your travel insurance policy will vary depending on the provider you select. The following are some of the most common types of coverage you are likely to find as you get quotes from the best travel insurance providers.

Trip Cancellation Protection

Trip cancellation coverage compensates you for nonrefundable expenses, such as your flight and lodging, if your trip gets canceled due to certain unforeseen circumstances. This could include unexpected weather events, a death in the family or the diagnosis of a major illness. You can check your travel insurance policy for specific coverages and exclusions. Most travel insurance companies provide 100% cancellation coverage for nonrefundable expenses when offering this type of protection.

Trip Interruption Protection

Baggage delay or loss coverage is another component of travel insurance that offers financial protection if your checked luggage is delayed or lost during your trip. If an airline temporarily misplaces your belongings, this coverage can help ease the inconvenience by reimbursing you for essential items, such as toiletries and lost clothing. The average amount a travel insurance provider offers will vary, and some companies have a timeline for how long you must wait after a delay before you can claim this coverage.

Emergency Medical Expenses and Evacuation

Medical expense coverage is a component of travel insurance that helps you cover medical bills you incur if you get hurt or sick on a trip. Depending on the health insurance you have in the U.S., your coverage may not extend to hospital bills to treat injuries and illnesses sustained outside of the country, making this type of coverage potentially valuable in the event of a medical emergency.

Emergency medical coverage does not usually include transportation or evacuation due to an illness or injury, but concerned travelers can purchase medical evacuation insurance as an add-on. For this reason, medical evacuation protection will typically have a separate coverage limit. We recommend considering higher evacuation coverage limits if traveling to a remote area without immediate hospital access.

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage entitles you to partial or full reimbursement of nonrefundable trip expenses if you cancel your trip for reasons not listed in your policy.

“CFAR gives you greater flexibility to alter your plans and still get some money back on your trip expenses, regardless of why you decided to cancel your trip,” said Borden. “[It] was especially popular immediately after COVID-19 because it allowed people to cancel even if they simply changed their minds about traveling.”

She goes on to note that while travelers are generally less concerned about COVID-19’s impact on travel, CFAR coverage is still a valuable benefit.

“You never know what could happen at home or at your destination that would cause you to rethink your travel plans,” she added.

Collision Coverage

If you’re renting a vehicle on vacation, you may choose to add collision coverage. Similar to the collision coverage found on your domestic auto insurance policy, it compensates you for damage to a rental vehicle if you’re involved in an accident. This coverage is usually not legally required to drive in another country. Still, it may help cover repairs passed onto you by the rental car company if you’re involved in an accident.

Rental Car Coverage

Rental car agencies usually offer optional insurance coverage when you rent a vehicle. However, you could choose to opt for rental car coverage through a travel insurance plan instead. Typically offered as an add-on, it can reimburse you if a collision, theft, vandalism, natural disaster or other events damage your rental car. In some cases, you may also find it cheaper than what a rental car agency offers for protection.

What Is Not Covered by Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance will not cover everything associated with your trip. Exclusions vary from provider to provider, but companies typically omit common events and circumstances from coverage. Some examples of common exclusions include medical tourism, named hurricanes and tropical storms, and voluntary cancellation without CFAR coverage. Other standard exclusions include fear of flying, injuries resulting from participation in extreme sports and travel to particularly high-risk destinations.

Some travel insurance companies offer add-on protection plans that cover some typically excluded events. For example, CFAR coverage can partially cover cancellations not covered by your standard travel insurance policy. Extreme sports coverages or waivers can offer financial protection in the event of an injury from participation in excluded sports or activities. Regardless, we suggest thoroughly reading the fine print in your contract and asking your provider questions about any exclusions you’re unsure of.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

In our comprehensive review of the travel insurance market, our team found the average cost of travel insurance was about 3% to 5% of a trip’s total value. Based on the quotes our team gathered from providers, the average cost across seven different traveler profiles came out to $221 , with the average traveler paying between $70 and $300 for most trips.

To further understand the average travel insurance cost in relation to total trip value, we gathered multiple quotes from various providers for a 30-year-old traveler taking a week-long trip to France. See the table below for the average travel insurance cost based on the total cost of trips ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.

Remember that your travel insurance costs will vary based on various factors. We encourage you to get a quote from at least three travel insurance providers before purchasing coverage to ensure you get the best price for your coverage needs.

The following chart outlines the average insurance cost for our top 10 companies from least to most expensive:

How We Found Our Cost Data

We calculated the average costs for each provider in our review using seven unique traveler profiles to gain an understanding of costs for different people and scenarios, which we break down in our travel insurance methodology .

After using each profile to gather quotes for different plans, we calculated the average cost of each provider and individual policy. Our top recommended plans in the table above may cost you more or less than our averages listed depending on factors unique to your travel needs. The best way to know how much a travel insurance policy will cost is to request quotes from multiple providers for your trip.

What Impacts the Cost of Trip Insurance?

Several factors can determine how much your travel insurance will cost — and while cost matters when it comes to a travel insurance policy, the cheapest option is not always the best. If you’ve booked an expensive trip and prefer a budget travel insurance plan, it might be good to ensure the coverage is enough to protect your investment.

As you shop, keep in mind that the following factors can affect how much you pay for a travel insurance policy:

• Your age: Some travel insurance companies increase costs with traveler’s age. Based on our research, prices are the same for travelers up to age 50 and then increase from there.
• Trip cost: The more expensive the trip, the more it will cost the travel insurance company to reimburse you, according to our research. As such, your travel insurance premium will likely be higher for more expensive trips.
• Plan type: There are many different types of travel insurance policies. The more protection you have, the more expensive your travel insurance rate. 
• Add-on coverages: Most plans will allow you to add certain features without upgrading your entire plan. However, add-ons will increase your overall cost. For example, you might buy basic flight insurance for $30 and add CFAR coverage for an additional $30.
• Number of travelers: While you can buy a single policy for multiple travelers, each traveler will have their own premium, increasing the total cost. However, many travel insurance companies offer group discounts.
• Destination: Your travel insurance provider will take the risk factor of your trip destination into consideration when determining the cost of insurance. 
• Trip length: The longer your trip is, the more you’ll likely pay a higher premium for a travel insurance policy. Not only are longer trips more expensive, but the duration increases the chances of something going wrong and causing you to file a claim. 

How To Buy Travel Insurance

The travel insurance providers on our list offer online quote systems that allow you to view pricing and policy options after entering some information about yourself and your trip. Alternatively, you can typically purchase coverage over the phone by getting in touch with a representative using the company’s customer service line.

As you prepare to purchase travel insurance, you want to keep a few details about your vacation handy, including:

• The ages and names of everyone in your party
• Your travel destination(s)
• The dates you are traveling
• Your total trip value, including flights, accommodations, baggage and other items you need to cover
• The date of your initial trip payment

Each of these factors will play a role in the price you will pay for travel insurance coverage.

Who Needs Travel Insurance?

While most people can benefit from some level of travel insurance coverage, consider a policy if you are planning any of the following:

International trips: Traveling internationally can expose you to unfamiliar healthcare systems, unpredictable events, and potential trip interruptions. Travel insurance offers financial protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected expenses that may arise in foreign destinations.

Regular vacations: If you frequently travel for business or leisure, an annual travel insurance policy can be a cost-effective solution. This policy provides continuous coverage for multiple trips, saving you time purchasing separate policies.

Senior travelers: If you are a senior traveler with Medicare, your health insurance excludes most medical care outside of the country. Travel insurance with medical expenses and evacuation coverage can financially protect you if you need care while away from home.

Adventure sports: Adventure enthusiasts planning to engage in activities like hiking, skiing or scuba diving may find travel insurance with adventure sports coverage beneficial. These policies can cover potential injuries and equipment losses, which you may be more likely to run into due to your itinerary. However, not all standard travel medical insurance covers injuries related to adventure sports.

If you are considering travel insurance, we suggest getting a few sample quotes to compare coverage. Getting a quote is free, takes only a few minutes and can provide more personalized insights into the cost of your upcoming travel plan.

As the world continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospitality industry is slowly seeing a return to pre-pandemic levels. According to research from the U.S. Travel Association , domestic leisure travel is expected to fully return to pre-pandemic levels throughout 2024. Some of the factors contributing to travelers’ return to airports across the globe include:

• Easing international visa and travel restrictions
• Vaccine distribution and effectiveness
• Increased demand for travel following COVID-19 lockdowns

As the demand for travel increases, so has the sale of travel insurance. The travel insurance market size is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5% between 2022 and 2028 . Highly publicized stories of flight delays and cancellations occurring across the country are also contributing to public demand for travel insurance.

Top Travel Destinations of 2024

To learn more about the top travel destinations of 2024 and the average price travelers paid for coverage, our team conducted a Pollfish survey in February 2024 consisting of 1,000 U.S.-based respondents.

Of those respondents, 46% said the last time they purchased travel insurance was for a domestic trip within the U.S. The remainder of our survey participants purchased a travel policy for an international vacation, with the following countries ranking among the most popular destinations:

Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

While travel insurance is not required to enter countries in most parts of the world, it can be worth the cost to purchase some level of coverage. In our review, we found the average cost of travel insurance is less than 7% of what you can expect to pay for your vacation — but may provide hundreds of thousands of dollars in reimbursements if you experience an unexpected cancellation or delay. The medical expense coverage included with travel insurance is also an invaluable protection, as many health insurance policies exclude care provided outside of the U.S.

Survey Majority Say Travel Insurance Is Worth It

Over half of our survey respondents paid between $50 to $200 for their most recent travel insurance policy, with $200 to $300 being the second most commonly selected price range. In addition, 40% of respondents said they purchased travel insurance mainly to protect the cost of their trip. Trip cancellation coverage and medical were the next most popular reasons for buying a policy.

If you plan to travel in 2024, our team recommends purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Over 60% of survey participants agree with our sentiments, endorsing a policy that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage and more.

“Like any insurance policy, it's a lost cost until you really need it. Travel insurance offers narrow or broad range coverages that can really help when things don't go as planned. From Medical Evacuations to trip cancellation, it's worth investing in a policy ," said Lazzari.

ASK THE EXPERTS

What is most important to consider when evaluating travel insurance options?

"It's essential the plans are well-defined including specific activities and regions a traveler will visit. For instance, a vacation spent relaxing at a nearby resort requires different insurance coverage compared to a trip involving various activities across multiple countries. Insurance premiums are inherently linked to the level of risk involved, so it's wise for budget travelers to tailor their insurance based on their detailed travel plans. Moreover, the inherent risks of the destination must be considered. Higher-risk areas naturally have a greater likelihood of issues arising, and appropriate insurance should be in place to manage these risks. When assessing the risk factors of a destination, it's crucial to go beyond common knowledge and actively seek out information to accurately gauge the safety level of the destination."

"It’s important to understand what is not covered by a travel insurance policy. Most policies will not cover man-made disasters if your trip is canceled or interrupted. Other exclusions may include acts of war, participating in dangerous activities such as extreme sports, self-harm and foreseeable events. Read the policy carefully. One alternative to standard travel insurance is cancel-for-any-reason coverage.  However, the cancellation typically must occur within a preset number of days before the trip is to begin and is more expensive."

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance

Does travel insurance get more expensive closer to the trip.

Unlike most other types of insurance, you won’t be penalized for buying your travel insurance closer to the dates you might use it. However, many travel insurance companies require that you purchase coverage within a limited time after booking your trip. Luckily, travel insurance prices do not increase as you get closer to your departure date. That being said, some options (like CFAR coverage) may only be available for a limited time before you travel.

When does travel insurance expire?

Your travel insurance policy will expire on the date you indicate when you purchase the plan. For most travelers, this will be the final day of your vacation. Frequent travelers might also have the option to buy annual travel insurance that protects them for a year.

What does international travel insurance cover?

International travel insurance provides you with a reimbursement for nonrefundable travel expenses if you’re forced to cancel your trip or leave your destination early. In addition, it may reimburse you for travel expenses like airfare and hotel costs if you cannot claim a refund from your vendors directly.

Does insurance still cover trips if you cancel right before your departure date?

That depends. Most travel insurance companies require canceling anywhere from 24 hours to a week or more before departure in order to be eligible for reimbursement.

Travel insurance premiums often increase as your departure date approaches, since the likelihood of last-minute interruptions or cancellations increases closer to your flight. It’s generally advisable to purchase travel insurance in advance to get access to the most favorable rates.

What is the most common type of travel insurance?

The most common type of travel insurance is trip cancellation and interruption coverage, which reimburses you if you’re forced to cancel your trip or go home early. These coverages are included on almost every travel insurance policy, except medical-only plans.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance Companies

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

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

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The compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear, but it does not influence the recommendations the editorial team provides. Not all companies, products, or offers were reviewed.

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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 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021

Best overall travel insurance, best for solo travelers.

John Hancock

Best for Tailored Plans

Allianz Global Assistance

Best for Premier Travel Insurance Plans

AXA Travel Insurance

Best for Adventure Sports Coverage

World Nomads

Best Travel Insurance for Groups

APRIL International

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Reviews Report

• Reviews.com rates IMG as the best travel insurance company, earning a 4.75 out of 5.
• The best travel insurance companies have broad areas and limits of coverage and excellent service for the insured.
• Medical coverage and trip cancellation/interruption are must-haves when choosing the best travel insurance company.

Travel insurance is an often overlooked way to protect the investment in your vacation or trip abroad. It covers incidents such as canceling trips, medical evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, and more. However, picking the best travel insurance policy isn’t always easy — especially when COVID-19 has slowed travel and canceled trips outright.

In making our selections for the best travel insurance companies of 2021 we analyzed each company’s travel insurance offerings using a number of criteria like medical coverage limits, available add-on coverage options, and the number of plans to choose from.

The 6 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2021

• IMG : Best Overall Travel Insurance
• John Hancock : Best Insurance for Travel Cost Reimbursement
• Allianz Global : Best Travel Insurance for Tailored Plans
• AXA : Best for Premier Travel Insurance Plans
• World Nomads Travel Insurance : Best Travel Insurance for Adventure Sports
• APRIL International : Best Travel Insurance for Group Travel

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Information accurate as of April 2021

Why we chose it

• 4.75 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• NR AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• $100K–$500K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 180 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• Plans specifically for seniors available
• Additional add-on coverage available
• High medical coverage
• Number of plans is limited
• Lengthy wait to initiate claim for lost luggage
• Trip cancellation: $50K
• Trip interruption: 150% cost of trip
• Medical coverage: $500K
• Medical evacuation: $1M
• Sports/recreation: $500K
• Travel delay: $500 (Max $125/day)
• iTravelInsured Travel Lite
• iTravelInsured SE
• iTravelInsured LX
• Senior plan
• 4.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• A+ AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• $50K–$250K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 90 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• Multiple plans
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance
• Up to $1K missed connection coverage
• Lower medical emergency coverage than competitors
• Few add-on coverage
• No free child traveler coverage
• Trip cancellation: Up to 100% of trip cost
• Trip interruption: Up to 150% of trip cost
• Emergency medical: Up to $250K
• Medical evacuation: Up to $1M
• Baggage delay: $500
• Lost baggage: $2,500
• Bronze: Basic plan with lower coverage limits than other two
• Silver: Intermediate plan with more value than Bronze 
• Gold: Premier plan with best coverage 

More John Hancock Insurance Reviews 

• John Hancock Travel Insurance Review
• 3.4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• $25K–$50K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• Multiple plans to choose from
• Children 17 and under, free
• Annual plan for multiple trips
• Relatively low medical limits
• Often difficult to compare multiple plan offerings
• Some plans are relatively expensive
• Trip cancellation: Up to $100,000
• Trip interruption: Up to $150,000
• Medical coverage: $50,000
• Emergency medical: $25,000
• Lost baggage: $1,000
• Change fee: $500
• Annual Plans
• One Trip Cancellation Plus
• One Trip Basic, Prime, Premier
• One Trip Emergency Medical

More Allianz Global Insurance Reviews

Allianz Travel Insurance Review

• 4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• $25K–$250K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 60 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• Very comprehensive top tier coverage
• Broad adventure travel coverage
• No deductible
• Limited coverage for lower tier plans
• Extensive exclusions for lost/damaged personal property
• Trip delay: Up to $300/day; $1,250 max
• Medical coverage: Up to $250K
• Medical evacuation: Up to $1M 
• Baggage delay: Up to $750 max
• Lost baggage: Up to $3K
• Silver Plan: Basic plan
• Gold Plan: Better value
• Platinum Plan: Premier coverage
• Adventure Product
• 2.75 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• Not Rated AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• Up to $100K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• Adventure sports coverage
• Language apps for iPhones
• COVID-19 coverage
• No pre-existing med coverage
• Restricted civil unrest coverage
• Less extensive med coverage
• Emergency dental: $750
• Trip cancellation: $2,500 / $10K
• Trip interruption: $2,500 / $10K
• Medical evacuation: $300K / $500K
• Lost, damaged, stolen gear: $1K/$3K
• Standard Plan
• Explorer (Enhanced) Plan
• 4.25 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• 60-90 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• High coverage for trip delay
• Group travel policies available
• Cancel for any reason available
• Low trip cost coverage
• Sports equipment coverage not automatic

Add-ons and Coverage

• Trip cancellation: 100% of cost
• Cancel for any reason: 75% of cost (only for Pandemic Plus plan)
• Trip interruption: 150%–175% of cost
• Medical evacuation: $500K (only for Pandemic Plus plan)
• Lost baggage: Up to $2,500
• APRIL Pandemic Plus
• APRIL Trip Cancellation
• APRIL Choice with Pre-Ex Waiver
• APRIL Cruise

Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know 

Travel insurance is an optional protection that most travelers should consider. Travel insurance helps people recover losses if travel plans are disrupted. This can include full recovery of prepaid expenses if the trip is canceled entirely as well as coverage for expenses incurred on a trip if facing problems such as a medical emergency or lost items.

A number of credit card companies provide some automatic travel insurance but coverage is limited and often doesn’t cover crisis situations such as the need to evacuate for a civil disturbance or natural disaster. The best travel insurance policies will provide full coverage, can be tailored to specific needs, and reimburse customers for losses and costs that will arise if plans go astray.

Purchasing travel insurance works much like buying other common coverage, such as home or auto insurance. The first step is to understand and list all of anticipated travel costs and potential risks, then contact several companies to obtain quotes to compare. 

What Travel Insurance Covers 

Medical care and evacuation.

The best travel insurance policies provide coverage for emergency medical expenses should a traveler be injured or become ill. Most policies will also offer coverage for the cost of evacuation due to a medical emergency.

Typically, plans reimburse for the cost of emergency care up to a limit set in the policy. It is important to review these limits carefully in light of personal medical risks and health concerns specific to the travel destination. Medical coverage will continue to be a vital part of any trip planning during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic environments.

Trip cancellation and interruption

Trip cancellation coverage is important if you need to completely cancel a trip because of personal reasons, weather-related incidents, or other covered events. You should review the coverage to assure that protection also applies when a trip is cut short for one of these same reasons.

This interruption coverage is designed to reimburse travelers for the unreimbursed costs incurred for the unused part of the trip. When searching for appropriate travel insurance policies, make sure to carefully forecast your costs for a trip Interruption or cancellation and ensure coverage limits are sufficient.

Delayed or lost baggage

Delayed baggage coverage reimburses travelers for the cost of obtaining toiletries and other basic necessities when baggage is delayed during a trip. On the other hand, lost baggage covers personal items and bags that are completely list and cannot be recovered.  In addition to reimbursement for items lost, many policies provide lost baggage tracking assistance. Be certain to read the fine print as usually each of these coverages come with some pretty stringent conditions. Also, compare this coverage with coverage offered by your credit card providers, as this is one area where these coverages may overlap.

Cancel for any reason

For an additional fee, many insurers will add a “Cancel for Any Reason” provision, which covers travelers in the event of a canceled trip, because of the risk of some disaster, such as a forecasted hurricane or civil unrest while traveling internationally .

The policy timeframe for canceling a trip will be critical so it is important to review the specific policy terms and understand just how close to departure you can cancel and be covered. Also, the extra cost of this coverage can be steep so be certain it is necessary.

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance Company

Prior to buying travel insurance, it is important to determine the travel coverage you may already have from other sources such as your credit cards, existing health insurance, or homeowners insurance. Also, have your total prepaid and anticipated trip costs calculated and handy. 

Here are some tips on selecting the best travel insurance company policy for your needs:

• Review any home insurance, umbrella insurance, health insurance, and credit card coverage that may already apply to traveling. For example, some home insurance policies cover lost items no matter where you are and health insurance could apply to situations outside of the United States.
• Understand the factors that will guide you in selecting the best policy for you — length of trip, destination, your age and health condition and anticipated involvement in high risk sports or other activities.
• Compare the detailed features and prices of several plans — try to find the cheapest travel insurance company plan that will also cover everything you need.
• Understand all of the deductible options that are available.
• Read the fine print and don’t be afraid to ask questions of the insurance company when plans are confusing or you would like a modification to the plan offered.

Finally, once you have purchased a policy and before departing on your trip, make sure you understand the process for filing a claim and seeking emergency assistance should the need arise. You do not want to face a crisis on the other side of the world and not be able to put your hands on the number to call for help.

Travel Insurance FAQ 

Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight or hotel.

Yes, you can purchase travel insurance after you book your trip. In fact, it can be desirable as you will better understand all costs at that point. Do not wait too long though and miss out on some features.

Can you be refused travel insurance?

Unfortunately, yes. Travel insurance companies often take specific medical conditions into account and can refuse coverage if they determine the risk is too high. This is another good reason to explore various coverage options with different companies.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

Spending 5%–7% of the total cost of your trip to assure that you are not forced to spend perhaps several hundred thousand dollars for a serious medical problem and related expenses is worth getting travel insurance. 

Methodology 

We evaluated travel insurance providers based on coverage, number of plans, optional coverage, medical coverage limits, and AM Best ratings to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best travel insurance provider reviews. To compare travel insurance providers with other brands across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:

• Essential Coverage: When comparing travel insurance providers, we considered essential coverage to be 24/7 assistance, trip cancellation/interruption, medical evacuation and more. Providers with more points of essential coverage scored higher. 
• Number of Plans: Flexibility and having options is important which is why Reviews.com awarded travel insurance providers with higher scores if they presented more plans. 
• Add-on Coverage: Travel insurance providers with more optional coverage add-ons scored higher in this metric — higher flexibility and customization in travel insurance is an indicator of the best travel insurance companies.
• Medical Coverage Limit: We compared the medical coverage limits of the best travel insurance companies and awarded providers with higher scores if they had higher medical coverage limits. 
• AM Best: Reviews.com utilized AM Best ratings to assign a score based on each home insurance company’s financial stability.

About the Authors

Rick Hoel Contributing Writer

Rick Hoel is an international business attorney and legal and insurance writer for Reviews.com. Over the last several years, he has covered topics dealing with personal and commercial insurance and technology and the law.

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

The 5 Best International Travel Insurance Companies for 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

AIG Travel Guard »

Generali Global Assistance »

World Nomads Travel Insurance »

GeoBlue »

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 International Travel Insurance Companies.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• AIG Travel Guard

With demand for international travel still on the rise, buying travel insurance makes more sense now than ever before. Having an international travel policy in place will ensure you won't lose the money you spent if your trip is canceled or interrupted for reasons beyond your control – or if your bags are delayed or lost entirely by your airline or cruise line .

Other protective benefits come from the best international travel insurance policies as well, including travel medical coverage for unexpected medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation. You may even find that the destination you plan to visit requires travel insurance, although most countries have dropped travel insurance requirements they initially put in place due to the pandemic.

U.S. News editors compared more than 20 of the top providers to find the best travel insurance companies for trips around the world. If you're hoping to secure the best international travel policy for your needs this year, the policies outlined below provide a solid foundation for you to start your research.

Frequently Asked Questions

While many countries began mandating travel insurance for visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic, most have loosened entry requirements and dropped this condition by now. Countries that still require international visitors to have travel insurance include the following:

• Antarctica: Travel medical insurance is generally required by cruise lines and tour operators for trips to Antarctica , with a standard minimum of $100,000 in emergency medical and evacuation coverage.
• Ecuador: You do not need travel insurance to visit the country of Ecuador, but you do need insurance with medical coverage to visit the Galápagos Islands .
• Qatar: Travelers visiting Qatar for more than 30 days are required to have a travel insurance policy that is approved by the country's Ministry of Public Health.
• Saudi Arabia: Visitors to Saudi Arabia from eligible countries must pay for an eVisa, and the cost includes compulsory travel insurance coverage.

International travel insurance works the same as travel insurance for domestic trips. These plans include various coverage options and coverage limits, and a deductible may or may not apply. Travelers can choose to purchase international travel insurance for a single trip or multiple trips; long-term plans for expats and missionaries are available from some providers.

While travel insurance policies can include a broad range of coverages, the main protections you'll want for international trips include the following:

• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage: This type of protection can reimburse you for prepaid travel expenses when a trip is canceled or interrupted for a covered reason beyond your control.
• Baggage delay insurance: This coverage can pay for incidental expenses that occur when your bags are delayed for a specific period of time (usually six hours or longer).
• Lost luggage coverage: This protection can replace your luggage and your belongings or reimburse you for costs if your bags are lost by a common carrier.
• Rental car insurance: This type of insurance may provide primary coverage when you rent an eligible rental car.
• Emergency medical and dental coverage: This type of insurance will pay for emergency medical treatment or dental expenses that may arise during your trip.
• Emergency evacuation coverage: This protection can pay for emergency transportation costs when you're sick or injured during your trip.

Also note that many travelers booking an international trip choose to purchase travel insurance that offers cancel for any reason protection, so they can cancel a trip for any reason at all, even if they just decide they don't want to go. That said, adding CFAR coverage to your policy will make your travel insurance plan more expensive. Most plans also have limits on how much of your prepaid travel expenses can be refunded, which are usually capped between 60% to 80% of your trip costs.

While coverages offered through international travel insurance plans tend to be broad, keep in mind that this type of insurance won't cover every situation that could arise. Some common issues that are not covered by international travel insurance plans include:

• Acts of war
• Claims due to air or water pollution
• Claims due to natural disasters
• Epidemics not specifically included in coverage
• Extreme, high-risk sports
• Government regulations or proclamations
• Nuclear radiation and contamination
• Terrorist events
• Travel bulletins or alerts

Many travel credit cards offer international travel insurance benefits, but you should know that these coverages have some limitations. For example, travel insurance plans from credit cards never provide meaningful amounts of coverage for medical emergencies or dental emergencies. You also have to pay for each trip with your travel credit card for coverage to apply.

The best international health insurance plan depends on factors like the length of your trip, where you're traveling and how much coverage you need. While you can take the time to get quotes from several different companies, websites like TravelInsurance.com and Squaremouth make it easy to compare coverage details, limits and pricing among several providers all in one place.

The cost of international travel insurance varies and can depend on your age, the length of your trip, your total trip cost and other factors. Consider getting multiple travel insurance quotes through TravelInsurance.com to get an idea of the cost of coverage for your upcoming travel plans.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for the Cost
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical
• World Nomads Travel Insurance: Best for Active Travelers
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats

Buy coverage for single trips or multiple trips at once

Annual plans available

Lower coverage amounts for emergency medical expenses than some other plans

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $150,000
• Emergency medical coverage up to $50,000
• Emergency medical transportation coverage up to $500,000
• Trip change protector coverage worth up to $500
• Baggage loss and damage coverage up to $1,000
• Baggage delay coverage up to $300 (12-hour delay required)
• Travel delay coverage up to $800 ($200 per day)

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Add-on coverage available for lodging expenses, preexisting medical conditions and rental cars

Optional CFAR coverage available with some plans

Coverage limits for its lowest-tier Essential plan may be insufficient for some trips

Add-on coverage for preexisting conditions must be purchased within 15 days of the initial trip payment

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost
• Baggage coverage worth up to $750
• Up to $200 in coverage for baggage delays
• Travel medical expense coverage worth up to $15,000
• Up to $150,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation

Choose medical coverage limits based on your needs

Generous limits for emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation across all plans

CFAR coverage must be purchased within 24 hours of initial trip deposit and is only available with Premium plan

Rental car coverage only included in top-tier Premium plan

• Trip cancellation coverage up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage up to 175% of the trip cost
• Travel delay coverage up to $1,000 per traveler ($300 daily limit)
• Up to $2,000 per person in baggage protection
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for sporting equipment
• Up to $500 per person for baggage delays
• Up to $500 per person for sporting equipment delays
• Up to $1,000 per person in protection for missed connections
• Up to $250,000 per person in coverage for emergency medical and dental procedures
• Up to $1 million in coverage for emergency assistance and transportation
• Up to $25,000 per person in rental car coverage
• Up to $100,000 per plan in accidental death and dismemberment coverage

24-hour travel assistance services included

More than 200 sports and activities covered in every plan

Coverage limits within standard plans may be insufficient

No coverage for most preexisting conditions

• Up to $10,000 in coverage for trip cancellation
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $500,000 in protection for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $3,000 in protection for damage or theft to your bags or gear

Purchase international travel medical insurance for individual trips, multiple trips or long-term travel

Coverage is mostly for emergency medical expenses abroad

Some plans require a primary U.S. health insurance plan

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has covered travel and travel insurance for more than a decade. Johnson has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world, and she has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. On a personal level, her family uses an annual travel insurance policy from Allianz. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg – who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states – in their family media business.

You might also be interested in:

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Holly Johnson

Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings.

Travel Insurance for Europe: 4 Best Options for 2024

Learn about a range of coverage options for traveling abroad.

The Best Travel Insurance for Mexico in 2024

Find coverage options for medical emergencies, travel delays, lost baggage and more.

Does My Health Insurance Cover International Travel?

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

June 1, 2020

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

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

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4 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Travel Insurance Claim

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

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

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Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel medical insurance

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

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

International travel insurance

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

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

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

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

Your own illness.

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

Natural disasters.

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

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

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

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

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

Baggage and personal belongings

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

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

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

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

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

24-hour assistance

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

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

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

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

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

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

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

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

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

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

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

Here are a handful of credit cards that offer varying levels of travel insurance coverage for purchases made with the card.

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

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

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

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

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

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

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

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

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

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

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

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

Travel insurance comparison sites

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

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

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

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

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

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

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

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

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

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

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

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

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

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

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

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

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

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

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

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

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

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

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

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

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

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

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

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

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

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

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

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

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

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

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

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

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

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

Keep reading

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

What is travel insurance?

How much is travel insurance?

Is travel insurance worth it?

What does travel insurance cover?

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

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

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

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

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

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

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Insurance Benefit: Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

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

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Earn 3% cash back when you choose online shopping plus earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

• Travel Insurance Reviews

Travel Insurance Reviews & Ratings

153,761 Travel Insurance Ratings & Reviews Collected

Compare Travel Insurance Quotes

Travel insurance reviews you can trust, we ask all customers to review their experience.

Squaremouth compares travel insurance plans from every major provider in the country. We back every policy we sell with our unique Zero Complaint Guarantee , our promise that every provider on our website will handle all claims fairly and honestly.

All of our customers are invited to submit a review about their experience with our providers and their travel insurance products. These reviews are then used to help future travelers make more informed travel insurance decisions.

We Maintain an Unbiased Platform

To provide the most accurate representation of each provider, we only allow customers who have purchased a policy on our website to submit a travel insurance review. We publish all reviews - both positive and negative - about a provider’s performance before, during, and after a customer’s trip. The result is a database of feedback from customers with diverse travel plans, trip costs, and coverage types.

Read Travel Insurance Reviews from Customers Who Filed a Claim

We understand the importance of choosing a provider that has a reputation for handling claims fairly and honestly. For this reason, we give customers the ability to specifically view reviews from other customers who have filed claims, regardless of if they received reimbursement or not. These reviews include useful information about the travel insurance claims process, including what was claimed for, how long the process took, and the result.

All Reviews are Original and Unedited

Every travel insurance review left on our website is published exactly as it’s written, without any alterations. We only monitor for profanity and obscenity.

Our providers are able to comment on customer reviews about their performance, but reviews cannot be deleted. This ensures we’re sharing complete, unbiased information with our customers, to provide the most useful travel insurance ratings available.

Travel Insurance Provider Reviews & Ratings

Since November 2023

How the Travel Insurance Review Process Works

We ask for permission to request a review when a customer buys their policy. If this is granted, we email our customers one time to allow them to submit a review on the following:

Experience Before the Trip

We ask each customer to provide an overview of the insurance provider’s performance before their trip:

• Did the traveler have questions for customer service, make changes to their travel insurance coverage, or question how the documentation was presented?
• What was the quality of the service they received before they traveled?

Experience During the Trip

We ask each customer to rate their travel insurance provider’s performance during a trip:

• Did the traveler need help with lost luggage, trip delays, an itinerary change, a medical emergency, or any other event?
• How did the provider help?

Experience Filing a Claim

If a claim was filed, we ask each customer how their provider handled their claim:

• How easy was it to file a claim?
• Was it completed in a timely manner?
• Was the traveler satisfied with the outcome?

Find the Best Policy for Your Trip

• Use more than 100,000 verified customer reviews to refine your search
• Compare single-trip, multi-trip , and group policies from every major travel insurance provider
• Instantly get a quote, compare, and purchase the best policy for your trip
• Get peace of mind with our Zero Complaint Guarantee - our promise to only sell policies from the best providers in the industry
• Our multi-award-winning customer service team is available 7 days a week to answer your questions
• Click here for a list of the best travel insurance companies based on total sales

Customer Reviews About Squaremouth

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

So Easy to Compare Companies

I have used Squaremouth Insurance many times: it is so easy to navigate their website! And if I need help, it is easy to reach them! Thank you, Squaremouth Insurance, for taking the stress out of buying insurance!

Jill from UT 03/30/2024

Easy Experience Online

"It's very easy to compare policies and purchase one online from Squaremouth. You can call their agents to ask questions and discuss policies. I also like their guarantee of help if you need help with your claim."

Carolyn from CA 03/22/2024

Quick and Very Fair

"I discovered Squaremouth last year when I compared prices of companies on my own. They were much higher than the quote for the same coverage from the same companies through Squaremouth. You can't lose!"

Catherine from ON 03/18/2024

Best Advice

"The insurance specialists are real experts in the field. They were able to narrow down the policies that were best for me, and my husband given the insurance as we already had."

Marcia from PA 03/15/2024

ResellerRatings

Squaremouth is the number 1 rated finance and insurance company on third-party review website, ResellerRatings. Customer service has always been our number one priority at Squaremouth. Our mission is to be the best place to buy travel insurance, so we invite every customer to review their experience with us on ResellerRatings.com .

View Squaremouth’s profile on resellerratings.com .

Our multi-award-winning customer service team is available on LiveChat seven days a week from 8am to 10pm ET, to help customers quote and compare travel insurance to find the best policy for the trip for the lowest possible price. After each conversation, customers are able to leave a review of their experience.

Get organized, don't be afraid to follow up: How to make your travel insurance claim go faster

What do you do if your travel insurance claim takes forever to process? Peter Hoagland had to answer that question after his payment request dragged on for months.

Hoagland, a consultant from Warrenton, Virginia, took a bucket list cruise to Alaska this summer with a land tour extension. 

"The trip was fantastic," he recalled. "But while I was on the ocean, I had a seizure. I couldn't speak for about 10 minutes. My wife and I wanted to see if it was leading to something else or if we needed to come back."

Hoagland visited the ship's infirmary, where the staff ran a few checks, concluded he was fine and presented him with a $1,000 bill. He submitted the invoice to his travel insurance company. A representative assured him it would take only a week or two to process the claim. But six weeks later, he had heard nothing.

Check out  Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

Protect your family: Find the best life insurance policies of 2023

He's not alone. Travel insurance companies are backed up with claims from a busy summer and an unexpectedly active fall travel season. But you can speed up the claims process by being meticulous about your paperwork – and by being persistent. And if all else fails, you can do what Hoagland did. Below, I'll let you know how he fixed his claim.

Is travel insurance worth it?  What to know before you book your next trip

How to avoid cruising mistakes: 'People are not paying attention to final payment dates'

Record claims mean record slowdowns

"Travelers are filing claims with their travel insurance providers in record numbers," said Rajeev Shrivastava, CEO of VisitorsCoverage.com, a travel insurance marketplace. "This results in an industrywide delay in claim approvals."

That's not uncommon in a business as highly regulated as insurance, as I explain in my guide to travel insurance . And those delays could carry over into the fall and winter, according to experts.

"Travel has seen a dramatic rebound in 2022 , which is great news for the industry," said Beth Godlin, president of Aon Affinity Travel Practice. But this surge in travelers also has implications for insurance claims – which may be delayed.

Is there a way to make your travel insurance claim go faster? As a matter of fact, there is.

Ways to make your travel insurance claim move faster

You should start worrying about your claim if it had been a month since filing. Most major travel insurance companies process claims within two weeks, except for the most complicated ones. So if yours wasn't complicated, it might be stuck – or lost.

Here's how to avoid a travel insurance claim slowdown:

► Keep your receipts.

Claims get bogged down when you don't send enough information to your insurance company, said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. 

"In order to process your claim quickly and accurately, travel insurance providers need all the information they require – including receipts for expenses, documentation of the cause of the cancellation or interruption and documentation of any refunds already received," he said.

That's easier said than done. During an emergency, keeping a receipt is often the last thing that crosses your mind. So when trouble hits, let your inner accountant do its thing. Take pictures of every receipt and bill. You may need them later.

► Triple-check everything.

"That's the biggest piece of advice I have," said Terry Boynton, president of Yonder Travel Insurance, a travel insurance comparison site. "Triple check you're submitting everything requested on the claim forms."

Boynton says Yonder's customers experience the longest claim delays when they don't submit everything requested on the claim forms. If a claims analyst can't process a claim because of missing documentation, the adjuster will ask for more information. But that email too often ends up in a claimant's spam folder, Boynton added. So remember to check your junk mail.

► Be a little pushy.

That's the advice of Damian Tysdal, founder of the travel insurance site CoverTrip.com. He recommends following up within a week of filing your claim to make sure the travel insurance company has everything it needs. "Being proactive can help," he said.

When a travel insurance company is overrun with claims, it's easy for one or two to fall through the cracks. You don't want that to happen to your claim. Too often, follow-up emails requesting more information can get lost in the shuffle, and that can lead to more delays. The only way to make sure your travel insurance claim is on track is to ask.

If your travel insurance company misses a self-imposed deadline, you're not being too pushy. So, for example, if a representative says you'll get a notification in 15 days and the company misses the deadline, it's OK to call. But calling once a week to "check" may be too much.

How to prevent a long travel insurance claim 

There are ways to avoid having a long claim process. One of them is to get insurance with a company that has a more automated claims processing system. For example, Allianz has a proactive payment system called SmartBenefits that can automatically track your flights and send you $100 per insured person when you experience a delay long enough to trigger a payment.

You can also choose an insurance company with a reputation for speedy claims. Faye Insurance handles its claims in-house, which accelerates the claims process, according to Jeff Rolander, the company's director of claims. 

"We respond to customers' claims submissions within 24 hours, and if all the necessary information is provided upon submission, aim to resolve the claim in 48 hours," he said.

So how did Hoagland get his claim fast-tracked? He found the email for his travel insurance company's chief claims officer on my consumer advocacy site . "She responded immediately," he said. "Within two days, I received a phone call telling me my claim was approved for the total amount."

► Understand your policy.  One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is failing to carefully read their travel insurance policy. Then they file a claim for something that isn't covered, which can lead to a long wait – followed by a rejection. "Understand what your travel insurance plan can and cannot do," advised Chiranth Nataraj, CEO of VisitorGuard.com.

► Set realistic expectations.  Even if you do everything perfectly, you still may have to wait, according to professionals. "Don't expect claims to be processed in a week or two," said Stephanie Goldberg-Glazer, owner of Live Well, Travel Often, a boutique travel agency. "It typically takes about a month or up to two months. And some companies may take even longer." Her advice: Be patient. If the claim takes longer than two months, send a polite email asking about the claim. 

► Make a checklist.  Many travel insurance claim forms are detailed, and you can't miss anything, said Tysdal of CoverTrip.com. "Create a checklist of all items they are requiring," he advised. "These will likely be electronic versions, so save them as PDF files with file names that make sense. Submit them as soon as possible."

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at [email protected] .

• Introduction to InsureMyTrip

Features of InsureMyTrip Platform

• Purchasing and Managing Your Policy
• How to File a Claim
• Customer Service Experience and Usability
• Why You Should Trust Us

InsureMyTrip Travel Insurance Review 2024: Compare Travel Insurance Options

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.

Founded in 2000, InsureMyTrip is the first major travel insurance comparison site to hit the market. The company has served over 4 million customers and works with some of the best travel insurance companies to help travelers find the right coverage. Here's a closer look at what you need to know before using its comparison tools.

InsureMyTrip Summary

InsureMyTrip is a travel insurance broker, which means it doesn't offer its own travel insurance. Instead, InsureMyTrip lets you compare policies from 25 of the industry's best travel insurance companies to select the best coverage for your needs. You can also buy, manage, and cancel your insurance policy through InsureMyTrip.

InsureMyTrip also has a customer service team called Anytime Advocates, which can help you file or facilitate a claim. Having an extra set of eyes on your claim may help you receive a response faster than if you were to take on your travel insurance claims office on your own.

Even if you prefer to purchase an insurance policy directly from your provider, InsureMyTrip is worth a visit solely for its customer reviews. You can read reviews by specific plan and whether a claim was filed. This is a great feature in a travel insurance marketplace, getting honest insight into how well a company works.

When you InsureMyTrip, you'll be able to see all the plans that apply to your travel details and personal information. You can opt to only see the following policy types: 

• Comprehensive
• International Medical
• Medical Evacuation
• Embassy Visa
• Accidental Death

Once you obtain your list of quotes, you can opt to see limits and terms for specific coverages, such as trip cancellation, emergency medical, evacuation, and pre-existing condition coverage . You can also receive quotes on annual travel insurance policies, if you intend to go on more than one trip this year.

Here are some more terms that InsureMyTrip offers with its quotes.

Best Plans Guarantee

First, InsureMyTrip's Best Plans Guarantee ensures that only plans with multiple positive ratings and reviews are shown to its consumers. The company provides a forum to allow past customers to share their experiences with specific providers. The insurance providers get a grace period to collect enough reviews. After the grace period expires, the site's offerings are filtered based on the feedback received, with the highest-rated plans receiving the highest ratings.

In short, you're free to choose your travel insurance, but InsureMyTrip's site prioritizes the companies consistently performing well, making it easier to find travel insurance companies you'll love.

Price Guarantee

All travel insurance is regulated state by state. So as InsureMyTrip points out on its website, offering discounts on these products is illegal. With that in mind, the company promises to show you the lowest prices while remaining legally compliant, meaning you won't find a (legal) lower price anywhere else.

Money Back Guarantee

You can cancel your InsureMyTrip travel insurance plan during your review period and get your money back if you're unhappy. However, there are a few caveats to this one. First, the company clearly states that each cancellation and refund policy differs by the provider, and you'll likely be subject to those terms. In addition, some providers may charge an administrative fee, which is typically not eligible for a refund.

InsureMyTrip Travel Insurance Cost

The cost of travel insurance can vary widely depending on several factors, including the trip destination, trip duration, trip cost, the age of the travelers, the provider, the plan chosen, and any additional coverage options selected.

The average travel insurance plan costs 4-8% of your total trip cost. Like your flight tickets, hotels, etc., prices fluctuate depending on your location, time of year, and more. The best way to compare the average cost of travel insurance for your plans is by comparing quotes online.

Purchasing and Managing a Policy With InsureMyTrip

You can get a quote from InsureMyTrip's website by inputting the following information:

• Destination
• Travel Dates
• Citizenship and Residence
• Number of travelers and their ages
• Trip details (taking a flight, cruise, renting a vacation home)

Once you're taken to the quotes page, you can compare policies and sort your search by price, popularity, and rating. 

How to File a Claim with InsureMyTrip

You'll need to work directly with your insurance provider if you have to file a claim. However, InsureMyTrip makes it easy to access the correct contact information and claims forms.

You can find your provider's information by navigating to the "File a Claim" page on InsureMyTrip.com. Then, select your insurance provider and policy from the drop-down menu. Typically, InsureMyTrip will provide each insurer's phone number, emergency contact line, and mailing address. When available, it also lists email addresses and URLs for claims forms.

If you encounter any issues with your provider's claims process, you can email InsureMyTrip's Anytime Advocates at [email protected].

InsureMyTrip Customer Service Experience and Usability

InsureMyTrip received an average rating of 4.3 stars out of five from Google Maps reviews of its headquarters in Rhode Island. Most of the negative reviews of InsureMyTrip talk about a claims issue with their providers, which InsureMyTrip doesn't directly control.

InsureMyTrip regularly responds to negative reviews, offering phone numbers and emails that customers can call for help with their policies. 

How InsureMyTrip Compares

Insuremytrip vs. squaremouth.

Squaremouth is one of the leading travel insurance aggregators, listing policies from 32 companies compared to InsureMyTrip's 25 companies. Squaremouth also lists options online for group travel insurance policies, which InsureMyTrip only quotes for when you call their customer service line.

Both InsureMyTrip and Squaremouth allow you to purchase, manage, and cancel a policy on their platforms. You'll have to file claims directly with your insurer, but both companies offer ways to facilitate customer claims. InsureMyTrip has an Anytime Advocates team, which can help customers with filing claims or facilitate an existing claim. Squaremouth has a Zero Complaint Guarantee, which promises that they'll act as a mediator if a customer feels that a claim was denied unfairly. 

Read our Squaremouth travel insurance review here.

InsureMyTrip vs. VisitorsCoverage

InsureMyTrip's offerings are more comprehensive than VisitorsCoverage's, which offers policies from 15 travel insurance companies.

VisitorsCoverage does a better job summarizing policy terms, offering eligibility details like max trip length and age limits, which InsureMyTrip lacks. It also offers more search filters, allowing travelers to select search options for students studying abroad, business travelers, and U.S. green card holders. That said, VisitorsCoverage does not field customer reviews.

Read our VisitorsCoverage travel insurance review here.

InsureMyTrip FAQs

Yes, InsureMyTrip offers travel protection insurance from 25 travel insurance companies, with search customizations like medical-only, Schengen Visa insurance, and AD&D insurance.

InsureMyTrip is very user-friendly, streamlining the insurance purchasing process and allowing travelers to compare all plans available for their trip. 

While InsureMyTrip offers some search refinements, they do not offer a filter for adventure sports.

Yes, customer reviews often highlight InsureMyTrip's customer service as helpful and efficient in addressing questions and assisting with policy selection. Negative customer reviews often receive responses from InsureMyTrip's team, which will try to resolve lingering issues.

InsurInsureMyTripMyTrip offers the advantage of comparing multiple insurance plans from different providers in one place, simplifying the process of finding the best coverage for specific travel needs.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed InsureMyTrip

When reviewing InsureMyTrip, we looked at its insurance partners and ran comparisons against other broker sites within the industry. We looked at the providers listed on its website, the assurances it offers, and customer reviews.

You can read more about how we rate travel insurance products here .

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