is klm travel insurance worth it

Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Comprehensive insurance

Get a complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the comprehensive insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your comprehensive insurance.

Read the full conditions

Read the insurance product information document

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Evaluating the Value and Benefits

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

• Travel insurance covers risks like trip cancellations, health emergencies, and lost luggage.
• Travel insurance costs can range from 4% to 12% of your total trip cost.
• Travel insurance is best for trips that are long, expensive, nonrefundable, and international.

Vacations can be very expensive. If you're paying a lot for yours, you might wonder if you should purchase travel insurance, especially when some costs are nonrefundable.

The answer isn't always cut-and-dried. Travel insurance isn't necessary for everyone. Whether you need it will depend on a variety of factors. Here are some key points to consider when deciding if travel insurance suits you.

Introduction to travel insurance

When planning a trip, it's essential to think about how you'll protect yourself from the unexpected. That's where travel insurance comes in. It can cover various risks like loss of personal belongings, checked baggage, and more. With the appropriate coverage, you can nullify or mitigate the potential losses. "Plain and simple, travel insurance is a layer of protection against financial loss," says Brad Cummins, owner and principal agent for Insurance Geek, an insurance comparison platform. "Whether it be lost luggage or a lost passport, travel insurance will cover the extra costs during these unfortunate events."

Benefits of travel insurance

Protection against unforeseen cancellation.

One of the top reasons to acquire travel insurance is to cover potential losses from trip cancellations. When canceling a trip due to a covered cause, travel insurance will reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. 

Some covered causes for travel cancellations include:

• Sickness, injury, or death of traveler or family member of traveler
• Inclement weather
• Unexpected work or layoffs
• Terrorist incidents in a travel location

Some travel insurance covers trip cancellations regardless of the reason. However, you make certain trade-offs when you enroll in a "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) insurance policy. These policies are more expensive and may only refund a percentage of your trip's cost. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance  here.

Financial security and peace of mind

While your travel insurance covers any unforeseen issues before your trip, it continues to cover you even after your flight has taken off.

For example, you don't have to be as anxious at baggage claim when your fellow passengers have claimed their luggage and yours hasn't come out yet. Travel insurance offers lost luggage protection and can cover any necessary purchases while you wait for your late luggage to arrive, such as toiletries and a change of clothes.

Medical coverage on travel insurance  can also offer peace of mind as most US health insurers don't provide coverage when you're abroad. A comprehensive travel insurance plan will cover you in an unexpected accident or emergency so you can seek medical attention for an injury sustained while traveling without worrying about mounting medical bills.

Evaluating the cost of travel insurance

The average cost of travel insurance is 5%-6% of your total trip cost. However, the exact cost will vary based on factors such as your age, travel destination, and where you live, and can be as little as 4% of your trip cost or as high as 12% of your trip cost.

If you're wondering whether travel insurance is worth it, you're not alone. There are a few things to consider. If an emergency arises on your trip, travel insurance can reimburse part or all of your vacation expenditure. However, this will depend on factors such as your trip type and whether it's refundable.

Cost vs. potential savings

In general, travel insurance is worth it if you're concerned about losing money if your trip is called off or delayed or if you're worried about medical bills while traveling. However, conducting thorough research and understanding the costs and coverage provided is critical before purchasing a policy.

For example, older travelers or those with pre-existing medical conditions may pay more for their insurance. Similarly, those traveling to high-risk destinations or participating in high-risk activities may also face higher premiums. 

Ultimately, it's important to shop around and compare quotes from different travel insurance companies to find the best coverage and rate for your needs. Read more in our guide for the best travel insurance companies . 

Cost-benefit analysis for different trip types

Travel insurance may be a wise investment if you've already paid for your and can't change or cancel your trip without penalty. Suppose your trip is canceled or disrupted due to a covered cause. In that case, travel insurance will cover the trip's cost and any other nonrefundable expenditures up to a pre-determined amount.

If you're heading to a country where your health coverage doesn't apply, or if you don't have any health insurance at all, travel insurance might provide the protection you need. Travel insurance can also assist you in case of medical emergencies. It's vital to understand that not all travel insurance policies are created equal. Be sure to carefully study the details and understand what is and isn't covered before purchasing one.

Scenarios where travel insurance is essential

Expensive vacations and long-term travel.

It's a good idea to insure trips with a high, nonrefundable price tag because you'll never forgive yourself if your expensive, once-in-a-lifetime trip gets canceled and your money and planning go down the drain. For these vacations, you'll want to find a policy that covers 100% of expenses.

Similarly, if you have long-term travel plans, you'll want to have a policy that protects against travel interruption in case something cuts your plans short. You'll also want medical coverage during extended stay outside the country.

High-risk destinations and activities

High-risk destinations include regions facing political instability, war zones, and areas prone to natural disasters. Travelers headed to these areas should look into travel insurance in case their trip is canceled due to an unforeseen event. 

Additionally, certain areas are known for the thrilling activities they offer, like skydiving and bungee jumping. If you have extreme sports on your itinerary or believe you might build up the courage to plunge down a canyon, you may want to invest in a travel insurance policy. Keep in mind that some travel insurance policies don't cover high-risk activities, so shop carefully.

When travel insurance may not be necessary

Low-risk, short, or domestic trips.

There are also some situations in which you might not need travel insurance. If you are traveling within the US, you do not need travel insurance for health reasons since most health insurance plans will cover you even if you're not in your home state. 

Additionally, travel insurance may not be necessary if you're only traveling over the weekend or exclusively booked refundable experiences.

Making an informed decision

There are a few key considerations when buying a travel insurance policy. The cost of the policy is one factor, but it's also important to look at the coverage limits and what is included and excluded in the policy. Be sure to read the fine print carefully and compare policies between different companies. 

It's also important to consider the purpose of your travel insurance policy. If you're going on a trip where you'll be doing adventurous activities, ensure your policy covers those activities. Finally, remember that travel insurance is there to protect you in case something goes wrong on your trip, so don't hesitate to use it if you need to.

If you decide that you need travel insurance, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a policy:

• Read the fine print of any policy you are considering to understand what is and is not covered. This is especially important for those who want to add special coverage options. 
• Compare policies from different providers to find the best coverage at the best price.
• Purchase your policy well in advance of your trip so that you are covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
• Ensure you're covered for pre-existing conditions because a number of policies will exclude pre-existing conditions if you don't pay extra for a waiver or additional coverage. 

Buying travel insurance can be a pretty quick and painless process, thanks to insurance aggregator sites like SquareMouth .

Using SquareMouth is one of the easiest ways to see multiple coverage options simultaneously. Once you've entered some personal details and information regarding your trip, you'll see a variety of insurance providers and plans from which to choose.

Assessing personal and trip risks

The first consideration you should factor into travel insurance is how much of your trip is already paid for. If you've prepaid for most or all of your travel expenses, you may want to purchase travel insurance if you have to cancel.

Another thing to consider is where you will be traveling. If you are visiting multiple countries, getting insurance that covers you in all of them might be a good idea.

Your age and overall health can also determine whether you need travel insurance. Suppose you are older or have pre-existing medical conditions, for example. In that case, it might be a good idea to purchase travel insurance if you need to cancel your trip or incur unexpected medical expenses.

Lastly, the value of your luggage can also be a factor to consider. If you plan to bring expensive items with you on your trip, it might be worth purchasing travel insurance to cover lost or stolen luggage.

Reviewing policy options and exclusions

When it comes to travel insurance, the ease of use will depend on the provider you choose. If you're working with a reputable insurer, then the process should be relatively straightforward. However, it's still important to understand what is and isn't included in your policy before you purchase it. This way, you can be sure that you're getting the coverage you need and that you won't be caught off guard by any fine print.

Travel insurance isn't necessary for everyone or every trip. But it can bring a lot of peace of mind during your travels and can certainly translate into significant savings if you're faced with a medical emergency while on your trip. It's best to do your research, compare plans, and understand your own level of risk when it comes to deciding whether or not to purchase coverage.

Travel insurance frequently asked questions

Travel insurance is highly recommended for trips that are long and expensive. For example, you should buy travel insurance for any international trips, cruises, adventure travels, and trips with significant pre-paid expenses.

To say that travel insurance will save you money in the long run isn't entirely accurate. Travel insurance will save you money when things go wrong, but it won't save you any money if your trip goes smoothly.

Short domestic trips don't necessitate travel insurance. Most health insurance policies cover you from state to state, so unless you're worried about unexpected cancellations, travel insurance isn't a must-have.

Travel insurance policies commonly exclude coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, extreme sports injuries, and travel to high-risk countries.

Cost-benefit considerations should include the total cost of your trip, the refundability of your expenses, your destination's healthcare costs, and your personal health and travel risks.

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

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

**Enrollment required.

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Protect Your Trip »

Is travel insurance worth it yes, in these 3 scenarios.

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

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Travel insurance can be useful, but it's not always necessary.

The key to knowing if you need travel insurance is figuring out your specific risks for any given vacation, then deciding if you can buy coverage that adequately protects you from any financial losses and pitfalls that might occur.

While insurance can be invaluable no matter the traveler and trip, these are the scenarios where it's especially useful:

• You're concerned about flight disruptions: Flight cancellations and delays are commonplace, especially during the holiday and summer travel seasons. Most trip insurance will reimburse you for incidental expenses that occur while you wait for your flight to depart or for your checked luggage to arrive. Examples include meals and hotel stays if your flight is delayed overnight, or clothing and toiletries you have to buy while you wait for your bags to show up at your destination. Limits apply to this coverage, but it can still pay off if you have to use it.
• You need the option to cancel your trip: Do you have a medical condition that might suddenly prevent you from traveling? What about young children who are prone to illness, or the possibility of your beach vacation getting rained out during hurricane season ? These are just some of the instances when cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage can help. Offered as an add-on to many insurance policies, this coverage lets you cancel your trip for a reason not covered within a typical trip cancellation benefit. If you need to use this coverage, you'll typically get 50% to 80% of your prepaid travel expenses refunded.
• You're traveling internationally: U.S. health insurance policies typically don't cover medical care or emergencies overseas, which is why so many people seek out travel medical insurance . According to Allianz Travel Insurance, the average costs of international medical evacuation can range from $15,000 in Mexico all the way up to $220,000 in Asia, Australia and the Middle East. Fortunately, many travel insurance policies offer up to $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage or potentially more.

The best travel insurance options

If one of the above applies and/or you're still curious about travel insurance, you can find the top-rated policies in a variety of categories below.

Any rates listed are for illustrative purposes only. You should contact the insurance company directly for applicable quotes.

What does travel insurance cover?

You'll quickly notice that each travel insurance policy is different from the next. Most plans offer coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions, lost or delayed baggage, medical emergencies, and other common perils; some let you add optional coverage for a rental car , sporting equipment and more.

To give you an overview of the way different travel insurance policies work, the chart below shows the included benefits in several plans from a travel insurance company called Travelex:

Compare Travelex plans and get a quote .

What does travel insurance not cover?

It's important to note that travel insurance policies cannot possibly cover every unexpected bill you encounter before, during or after a trip. That's because travel insurance is not meant to be used like other types of insurance, including traditional medical coverage you have for routine health care expenses.

According to Allianz Travel Insurance , travel insurance "does not cover losses that arise from expected or reasonably foreseeable events or problems." Here are some of the most common exclusions found in travel insurance policies:

• Civil unrest
• Epidemics (except COVID-19)
• Extreme, high-risk sports
• Government-issued travel bulletins or warnings
• Natural disasters
• Nuclear reaction, radiation or radioactive contamination
• Preexisting conditions (unless specifically covered by your plan)
• Pregnancy-related medical expenses that aren't an emergency (including regular labor and delivery)
• Terrorist events
• Travel to participate or train for a sporting event

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When should you skip travel insurance?

While the cost of a travel insurance policy can be worth it in the end, there are plenty of travel scenarios where you may not need to purchase a plan. Consider the following situations where buying insurance may not be worth the trouble:

• You're planning a short road trip within the U.S.: If you're planning a short trip within the U.S. where your own health insurance coverage will apply, you may not need trip insurance for medical expenses. The fact that you're not flying also means you don't have to worry about flight cancellations, and that your luggage will likely remain in your possession the entire trip.
• You plan to use credit card travel insurance: There may be instances where credit card travel insurance coverage is sufficient for your plans, although only you can make this decision. For example, the popular Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with trip cancellation and interruption coverage worth up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip; primary rental car coverage for damage or theft worth up to $75,000; lost luggage reimbursement worth up to $3,000 per passenger; emergency evacuation and transportation coverage worth up to $100,000; and more.
• You bought insurance from your travel provider: There may be instances where the travel insurance coverage from your airline or cruise line is good enough. If you're flying within the U.S. to see a family member and staying in their home for free, for example, you'll likely just need protection against flight cancellations, eligible trip delays, and lost or delayed baggage.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning writer who has extensive experience when it comes to researching and buying travel insurance for her own trips to more than 50 countries around the world. Johnson has interviewed top executives from many of the best travel insurance companies and has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

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Comparing KLM Travel Insurance: Which Plan is Right for You?

By knbbs-sharer.

Are you planning a trip with KLM Airlines and wondering which travel insurance plan to choose? In this article, we will compare the different KLM travel insurance plans to help you make the best decision based on your needs and preferences.

KLM offers three types of travel insurance plans: Essentials, Comfort, and Premium. The Essentials plan covers the basics, such as trip cancellation or interruption, loss or delayed baggage, emergency medical expenses, and emergency evacuation. The Comfort plan includes all of the Essentials benefits plus additional coverage, such as trip delay and missed connection, travel accident, and natural disaster. The Premium plan offers the most comprehensive coverage, including coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, personal liability, and golf equipment protection.

When comparing the different plans, it’s essential to consider factors such as the length of your trip, the number of people traveling with you, your destination, and your risk tolerance. For example, if you’re only traveling for a few days and don’t have any high-value items with you, the Essentials plan might be sufficient. However, if you’re going on a more extended trip and want additional peace of mind, the Premium plan might be a better fit.

It’s also essential to review each plan’s coverage limits and exclusions to ensure that they align with your needs. For example, the Comfort plan includes coverage for trip delay and missed connection, but the coverage is only applicable if the delay exceeds six hours. Additionally, pre-existing medical conditions are not covered under the Essentials or Comfort plans unless you pay an additional fee.

When selecting a travel insurance plan, it’s also crucial to consider the deductible and the policy’s terms and conditions. Some plans might have a higher deductible, but also offer a broader range of benefits, while others might have a lower deductible but more restrictions on coverage.

To sum up, the KLM travel insurance plans are well-designed and provide excellent coverage for most types of travelers. To determine which plan is right for you, consider your trip’s length, the number of people traveling with you, your destination, and your risk tolerance. Make sure to review each plan’s coverage limits and exclusions, deductible, and policy terms and conditions before making your final decision. And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy your trip!

(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

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Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Types of insurances

It’s up to you which type of insurance you prefer, so choose the one that fits your travel situation and your needs.

Travel and cancellation insurance

Get the most complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the travel and cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel and cancellation insurance.

Read the full conditions

Read the insurance product information document

The travel insurance covers:

You can purchase the travel insurance when booking, or via My Trip up until your flight’s departure. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel insurance.

Cancellation insurance

Need to cancel or change your trip before it even begins due to unforeseen events? With the cancellation insurance, you’ll get a compensation of your ticket price, extra options, and the change fee.

You can purchase the cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your cancellation insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Types of insurances

It’s up to you which type of insurance you prefer, so choose the one that fits your travel situation and your needs.

Comprehensive insurance

Get the most complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the comprehensive insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your comprehensive insurance.

Read the full conditions

Read the insurance product information document

Assistance insurance

The assistance insurance covers:

You can purchase the assistance insurance when booking, or via My Trip up until your flight’s departure. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your assistance insurance.

Cancellation insurance

Need to cancel or change your trip before it even begins due to unforeseen events? With the cancellation insurance, you’ll get a compensation of your ticket price, extra options, and the change fee.

You can purchase the cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your cancellation insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

Is travel insurance worth it? The whole story

Family trips are supposed to be fun, so what can you do when everything goes wrong? Here lies the importance of travel insurance, a safeguard designed to mitigate financial losses and provide assistance during unforeseen circumstances. Let's explore the benefits, drawbacks, various plans, and coverage options of travel insurance.

.css-26rqae{font-weight:500;} Benefits of travel insurance

The primary advantage of travel insurance is its coverage for unexpected expenses. This means reimbursement for even non-refundable bookings. Certain plans also offer perks like 24/7 translation support and legal referrals. Most plans cover:

Financial recovery for cancellations : Life is unpredictable. Illness, family emergencies, or work obligations can derail your travel plans. Travel insurance can reimburse some non-refundable expenses, protecting at least a portion of your investment.

Medical emergencies and evacuation : Medical treatment abroad can be exorbitant. Travel insurance can cover these costs, including medical evacuation if necessary, ensuring you receive adequate care without draining your finances.

Lost, stolen, or damaged belongings : From misplaced luggage to stolen passports, travel insurance can provide compensation and assistance, alleviating the stress associated with such situations.

Personal liability : Should you accidentally injure someone or damage property while traveling, some travel insurance policies offer coverage for legal liabilities.

Drawbacks of travel insurance

As with any insurance, there are limitations and exclusions to consider. It's crucial to read the fine print and understand what is covered and what isn't before purchasing a policy. Some common drawbacks of travel insurance include:

Costs associated with pre-existing conditions : Most plans do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, which can be a significant factor for those with ongoing health concerns. It's important to check the policy's exclusions and restrictions.

High premiums for high-risk activities : If your trip involves extreme sports, adventure activities, or risky destinations, you may need additional coverage, which can come at a higher cost.

Limited coverage for electronics and valuables : While travel insurance may cover lost or damaged belongings, there is usually a limit on the amount reimbursed, which may not be enough for expensive electronics or valuable items.

Types of travel insurance

Travel insurance can be tailored to various types of trips and travelers. Here are some common types of coverage:

Single trip : As the name suggests, this type of policy covers one specific trip with set dates and destinations.

Annual/multi-trip : If you travel frequently throughout the year, an annual policy can provide coverage for multiple trips within a specified time frame.

Domestic : This type of insurance covers travel within your country of residence. It may be beneficial for short trips or those that don't require international flights.

International : Designed for trips outside your country of residence, this type is more comprehensive and includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other travel-related issues.

Group : For families or groups traveling together, a group policy can often be more cost-effective than individual policies.

How to choose the right travel insurance

When selecting a travel insurance plan, consider your specific needs and trip details. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Trip duration and activities : Longer trips, adventure sports, and risky destinations may require additional coverage or a specialized policy.

Coverage limits and exclusions : Make sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what isn't, including any exclusions or restrictions.

Cost vs. benefits : Consider the cost of the policy compared to the potential benefits and coverage it provides. Sometimes paying a little extra for added coverage can be worth it in the long run.

Costs vs. potential savings

While the upfront cost of travel insurance may deter some, it's essential to weigh this against the potential financial risks. Emergency medical care, trip cancellations, or lost belongings can result in significant expenses that far exceed the cost of a policy.

Who benefits from travel insurance?

International travelers : Those traveling abroad, where their health insurance might not provide coverage.

Adventure seekers : Individuals engaging in activities like skiing, scuba diving, or hiking in remote areas.

Those with significant pre-paid expenses : Travelers with non-refundable flights, hotel bookings, or tour packages.

Travel insurance offers a layer of protection that can significantly impact your peace of mind and financial well-being while traveling. By understanding the benefits and limitations, travelers can make informed decisions, choosing the right coverage to match their needs and ultimately enhancing their travel experience.

Whether facing a minor inconvenience or a major emergency, being insured may allow you to navigate the challenges of travel with more confidence.

This blog post is provided "as is" [and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice]. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is [reviewed] by at least two human editors.

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FinanceBuzz

8 Reasons It’s Worth It To Buy Travel Insurance (And 6 Times To Skip It)

Posted: July 12, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Life is full of unexpected events and complications, and that doesn’t stop just because you’re traveling. If anything, travel may have even more surprises than your day-to-day life at home.

Travel insurance can help you avoid wasting money if you have to cancel a trip due to illness, need medical coverage while you’re traveling, or send you home for medical reasons.

However, it may not always be necessary and can sometimes be a waste of money. Keep reading to learn when you should and shouldn’t opt for travel insurance.

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Safety net for international travel

The number one reason people buy travel insurance is to cover an expensive trip. And if you’re traveling overseas, chances are your travels will cost a lot of money.

In addition, there are potential complications when it comes to international travel, from losing luggage during connecting flights, missed or canceled flights, sickness, and more.

And if something catastrophic happens in a foreign country, travel insurance provides evacuation so you can get home safely.

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Medical coverage

Getting sick or injured is unpleasant enough when you’re in the comfort of your home, but it’s a new beast entirely when you’re abroad.

Generally, you can expect basic medical expenses to be covered through your travel plan, often including dental. Medicare will not cover medical expenses in a foreign country. If you’re traveling overseas, travel insurance for potential medical costs is worthwhile.

Cover rental car mishaps

Renting a car is a great way to get around when traveling because you can explore a place on your own. Using taxis or ride-share services may cost more money. However, even the best drivers make mistakes, and no one can protect themselves from reckless drivers.

Your U.S. car insurance won’t cover you when driving in a foreign country. So choosing the car-rental insurance option when you buy travel insurance may be a good move.

Be aware that most travel insurance rental-car plans cover collisions and may not cover medical expenses, damages to other cars or property, or personal property damage or loss.

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

Pre-existing conditions often aren’t covered

Unfortunately, as with many health insurance plans, travel insurance often won’t cover pre-existing conditions. Travel health insurance is usually meant for unforeseen illnesses or injuries instead of complications due to an existing medical issue.

Even travel insurance companies that cover pre-existing issues often only cover physical maladies and exclude mental conditions and typical pregnancy-related symptoms and complications.

Protect lost luggage

A big fear for travelers is losing their luggage, either having it not arrive at the destination or stolen during their trip. Most airlines will offer reimbursement for luggage they lose, but it can take quite a while for this to process.

Travel insurance will cover the cost of replacing your clothing and other items while you wait for your luggage to be located and can also cover theft and damage.

Cover valuable items and gear

You should consider buying travel insurance if you’re traveling with valuables, including expensive jewelry, art, or even pricey sporting or adventure gear.

You’ll need to talk to the insurance agency specifically about covering your valuables, as they may need to be insured separately. Depending on your homeowners insurance policy, your jewelry may be covered even when you travel.

Sporting goods, including golf clubs, will not be covered by your homeowners insurance if you’re traveling, so you will need travel insurance to replace them if they’re lost, damaged, or stolen.

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Emergencies happen

While we do our best to prepare for the worst-case scenario, we can’t stop life from happening. Things like medical emergencies, a death in the family, or other catastrophes can halt your travel plans.

If you have travel insurance, rescheduling or cancellation fees will be covered, allowing you to deal with the emergency at your own pace. You won’t have to worry about losing the money spent on the trip and subsequent fees.

Natural disaster coverage

Are you planning a fall trip to the Gulf Coast or Florida? Consider your travel destination and the time of year you're going.

If you’re visiting someplace prone to natural disasters, especially seasonal occurrences like tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and such, travel insurance can help you recoup your money should these events interrupt your travel plans.

Similarly, if a natural disaster occurs during your trip, often, insurance will pay to move you to a more secure location.

Extreme adventures may not be covered

Your insurance will most likely cover typical travel-related injuries but don't expect your medical bills to be covered if your itinerary involves extreme adventures or dangerous exploits.

Surfing, sailing, kayaking, bungee jumping, scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, and other extreme sports do not fall into everyday illnesses or injuries. For these activities, consider getting a specific plan for adventure activities.

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Shaky travel companies

If you booked your trip through a travel company and it goes bankrupt, travel insurance may provide a safety net to ensure you get your money back.

Airlines, cruise ships, travel companies, and other travel-related businesses suffered during the pandemic, and many may not be on solid financial ground yet.

This may not be covered in a basic insurance plan, so make sure your agent adds financial default coverage if you are concerned about the health of your travel provider. 

In the situation any company or organization closes or is otherwise inoperable during your trip, you’ll be covered.

Now let’s look at times you may not need travel insurance.

Your credit card offers travel protections

Before purchasing travel insurance, consider which credit card you have. Many of the top credit cards  offer travel protections.

Some protections you may already have include lost luggage, rental car insurance, trip delay, and trip interruption or cancellation.

Credit card programs often don’t cover medical or other interruptions, so consider your priorities before choosing this option.

You have a domestic trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S. and its territories, travel insurance may not be necessary. For example, you won’t need medical coverage as your health insurance should be honored nationwide.

Domestic travel is also usually much less expensive. If you’re taking a cheap, last-minute, or nonstop flight and staying at an inexpensive hotel or rental, the cost of travel insurance may not be worth it.

One exception might be a family trip to Disney World. The estimate for a trip for a family of four in 2023 is more than $6,000, so travel insurance might be money well spent in this case.

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Don’t add expense to cheap trips

Not all travel is planned. Whether traveling for work, a family emergency, or just a last-minute vacation, you likely don’t need insurance in these circumstances. Odds are, you’re packing light, and both your flight and hotel are relatively inexpensive.

In these scenarios, the things insurance covers won’t be relevant, including baggage loss, flight cancellations, hotel issues, and so on. 

Not only will these costs likely be minimal, but they can be disputed with your airline or hotel, although it may take a little while to get your money back.

The airline has a flexible rebooking policy

If you’re buying travel insurance to cover the cost of rescheduling a flight, you’re better off purchasing a refundable ticket at a higher price. And some airlines have more flexible policies now.

Many airlines allow last-minute ticket changes and will even help you reschedule your flight within a specific timeframe. The timeframe and policy vary by airline, and you may be subject to a nominal cancellation or rebooking fee, but it will be significantly less than insurance.

Insurance will not cover political unrest

One emergency situation insurance probably won’t cover is war or political unrest. If you’re visiting a location with political tensions and your trip is canceled as a result, don’t expect your insurance to cover the costs.

Insurance companies generally follow the travel advisories the U.S. State Department issued for medical and political situations.

Similarly, insurance won't cover these costs if you have to leave your trip early for safety concerns. Consider your destination's political environment before booking your travel or buying insurance.

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Your hotel may cover cancellations

Many hotel cancellation policies have tiers depending on the booking you make. For example, some may have free cancellation within a specific period, while others charge different rates for rooms booked as non-refundable or partially refundable.

If your sole reason for purchasing insurance is hotel flexibility, consult with the hotel before you book. They may have a policy as flexible as your insurance or can work with you should something unexpected arise.

Penalty-free cancellations for major hotels tend to be around 24-48 hours prior to arrival.

Bottom line

Travel insurance may be pricey, but it’s a lifesaver in many situations. However, in others, it’s overkill and a waste of money.

Every travel situation is different, so consider your specific needs when purchasing. And, if you want more money to cover your insurance, consider these ways to make extra cash for travel funds.

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Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Types of insurances

It’s up to you which type of insurance you prefer, so choose the one that fits your travel situation and your needs.

Travel protection comprehensive insurance

Get the most complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the travel protection comprehensive insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel protection comprehensive insurance.

Read the full conditions

Read the insurance product information document

Assistance plus insurance

The assistance plus insurance covers:

You can purchase the assistance plus insurance when booking, or via My Trip up until your flight’s departure. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your assistance plus insurance.

Cancellation insurance

Need to cancel or change your trip before it even begins due to unforeseen events? With the cancellation insurance, you’ll get a compensation of your ticket price, extra options, and the change fee.

You can purchase the cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your cancellation insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

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Is KLM Premium Comfort Worth It? [Amsterdam to Chicago Review]

Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

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Table of Contents

Booking klm premium comfort, klm premium comfort cabin and seats, food and beverage, was klm premium comfort worth it, final thoughts.

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We love sharing our experiences on first and business class flights, but let’s be honest — we don’t fly this way all the time. Sometimes, an economy or premium economy flight just makes sense.

That was the case recently when I flew from Amsterdam to Chicago in KLM Premium Comfort (KLM’s premium economy cabin). The price for business class was unreasonable on the day I needed to fly, and since this was a daytime flight, I didn’t need a lie-flat seat to sleep. So, I ended up booking Premium Comfort, which offers a better price than business and more comfort than economy.

But was KLM’s Premium Comfort worth it?

KLM’s premium economy product is called Premium Comfort and it offers service that’s right between economy and business class.

Premium Comfort is not the same as KLM Economy Comfort . Economy Comfort refers to the seats with a few extra inches of legroom in the front of the economy cabin, much like American Airlines Main Cabin Extra or Delta Comfort+.

The price for a KLM Premium Comfort ticket on the day I needed to travel was just 30,000 Flying Blue miles plus $232.95 per ticket . At the time, there was a 25% transfer bonus from Citi ThankYou Rewards to Flying Blue , which meant I would only need to transfer 24,000 Citi ThankYou Points to book each ticket at a cost of 30,000 Flying Blue miles.

My final cost was 48,000 Citi Thank You Points (transferred to Flying Blue) plus $465.90 for 2 KLM Premium Comfort tickets from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) .

I used my Chase Sapphire Reserve ® to pay for the taxes and fees so I could earn 3x Chase Ultimate Rewards points and have solid travel protections .

The cash cost of my flight would have been $3,728 ($7,456 for 2 passengers). Booking one-way flights with cash is rarely a good deal since they generally aren’t sold at half the price of a round trip. However, booking a one-way flight with points makes sense since each leg is priced separately.

It’s easy to earn Flying Blue miles fast because you can transfer them at a 1:1 ratio from Chase Ultimate Rewards , American Express Membership Rewards , Citi ThankYou Rewards , Capital One Miles , Bilt Rewards , and even the new Wells Fargo Rewards program.

The Premium Comfort cabin on the Boeing 777-300 we flew in had 24 seats in a 2-4-2 layout. I sat in seat 11G, on the aisle in the first row.

All of KLM’s Boeing 777-300ER planes are named after national parks — I flew on the Tierra del Fuego National Park plane.

The average seat pitch (distance between the back of your seat and the back of the seat in front) in economy is 31.1 inches. The average pitch in Premium Comfort is 38.2 inches . While not enough to fully recline, that’s a significant improvement over economy.

One of the things I didn’t like about KLM’s Premium Comfort was that I couldn’t pick my seat . Your ability to choose seats on KLM depends on your Flying Blue status, fare class, and booking method.

Seats weren’t assigned at the time of booking, either. When I checked on my seat assignment a few months later, I had 2 middle seats in the back. Then I got a message that there was a problem and I could choose different seats as a 1-time courtesy, so I snagged 2 in the bulkhead (all of the sets of 2 seats on the sides were taken). After that, I wasn’t able to view the seating chart or change my seats.

I sat in the bulkhead row of Premium Comfort, which worked out well (although I would have preferred not being in the middle section of the plane).

The premium economy seats are a definite step up from economy seats, but they are nowhere near as comfortable as a business class seat. Considering this was a daytime flight on which I didn’t plan to sleep, Premium Comfort was a nice middle ground.

A water bottle, pillow, blanket, and amenity kit were waiting for me in my seat. My headphones were in the information pocket in front of my seat.

The headrest had adjustable sides and a reading light.

The feature I loved the most, and what makes premium economy worth it for me , is the footrest. Usually, the footrest comes from the back of the seat in front of you (like it did when I flew American Airlines premium economy from London to Philadelphia last year).

However, when you sit in the bulkhead row, you get a leg and footrest that comes from your own chair. This makes such a difference for a shorty like me (at 5 feet tall, the footrest was perfectly sized for me). If you’re a tall person (like my husband), neither of these footrest options will do much for you.

Each KLM Premium Comfort seat has a 13-inch screen with inflight entertainment . Since I was working for most of the flight, I didn’t partake in the IFE offerings.

Amenity Kit

The KLM Premium Comfort amenity kit was a fun change of pace from the usual zip-top bag kit I see most of the time. This kit, made in partnership with REPREVE Our Ocean, came in a reusable drawstring mesh bag. It contained an eye mask, bamboo toothbrush, toothpaste tablets, ear plugs, and a pen.

The amenity kit in KLM’s Premium Comfort cabin came in a handy reusable mesh bag. The contents were fairly basic, but having any type of amenity kit helps make a flight feel more special than being in the economy cabin.

A main meal plus a light meal were served during my 8-hour daytime flight.

Drinks and a pack of mixed nuts were served before the meal. I took this opportunity to get a bit of work done before the meal arrived.

For my main course, I chose the chicken barley salad. It came with a Mexican bean salad appetizer, a mini cheese plate, and a warm roll.

The photo doesn’t look too appetizing, but my salad was delicious. The Mexican bean salad wasn’t bad, but it didn’t really go with everything else, so I didn’t eat most of it.

The meal was served on plastic plates , which made it feel more like an economy meal.

Dessert was cherry cheesecake ice cream — yum!

Coffee was served after the meal and I was disappointed to see it came in a tiny paper cup.

The second meal was a lighter option offered near the end of the flight. There was only 1 option — a mixed green salad with smoked salmon (served on the side).

The salad was decent, but the dessert, pastel de nata (a Portuguese egg custard tart), was delicious.

Overall, I was quite pleased with the meal options on my flight as they were flavorful and sufficiently enjoyable.

The cost of my KLM Premium Comfort ticket was 30,000 Flying Blue miles plus $232.95 per ticket. An economy ticket can cost as few as 20,000 miles (plus slightly less in taxes and fees.) Not considering the transfer bonus I used, the price difference is essentially 10,000 miles.

In my opinion, it’s 100% worth 10,000 miles more to be in premium economy rather than economy for an 8-hour flight.

If you don’t want to pay for business class but would like more space than the economy cabin offers, premium economy is a great option. It offers more space and a more comfortable seat than economy with a lower price than business class. Plus, it can be easier to find award availability in premium economy rather than business class.

I had the opportunity to experience KLM Premium Comfort on a 777-300 flight from Amsterdam to Chicago. I paid 10,000 more Flying Blue miles than what an economy ticket would have cost and I believe it was a truly worthwhile investment. The seat offered more legroom and leg rest, which made the daytime flight quite comfortable.

While I always strive to fly business class on long-haul flights, sometimes there’s simply no award availability or airfare is too high. In those instances, premium economy can be a great alternative. It’s a budget-friendly way to be more comfortable than you would flying in the back of the plane.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is klm premium economy like.

KLM’s premium economy product is called Premium Comfort. In this cabin, you’ll find a wider seat with more pitch and almost 7 inches more legroom than standard economy seats. Each seat also has a foot or leg rest and comes with an amenity kit.

What's the difference between KLM economy and Economy Comfort?

KLM Economy Comfort seats are located in the front of the economy cabin. They have about 2 inches more legroom and just under 2 inches more recline than standard economy seats.

Does KLM premium economy get lounge access?

No KLM premium economy (Premium Comfort) passengers don’t get complimentary lounge access.

What's the difference between KLM Premium Comfort and KLM premium economy?

Premium Comfort is the term KLM uses for its premium economy cabin.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Types of insurances

It’s up to you which type of insurance you prefer, so choose the one that fits your travel situation and your needs.

Get the most complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the travel insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel insurance.

Read the full conditions

Assistance insurance

The assistance insurance covers:

You can purchase the assistance insurance when booking, or via My Trip up until your flight’s departure. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your assistance insurance.

Cancellation insurance

Need to cancel or change your trip before it even begins due to unforeseen events? With the cancellation insurance, you’ll get a compensation of your ticket price, extra options, and the change fee.

You can purchase the cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your cancellation insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

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5 Things to Know About the Air France-KLM Credit Card

Erin is a credit card and travel rewards expert at NerdWallet, based in Baltimore, Maryland. She has spent nearly two decades showing readers unique ways to maximize their investments and personal finances. Prior to joining NerdWallet, Erin worked on dozens of newsletters and magazines in the areas of investing, health, business and travel with Agora Publishing. Her love of travel led to a passion for credit card and loyalty rewards to subsidize trips, and she thrives on teaching others how to harness the power of credit card rewards. When she's not writing or editing, Erin is planning her next adventure for her family of four using points and miles. Erin recommends this card as the cornerstone for all travelers looking to build up their rewards portfolio - see it here.

Kenley Young directs daily credit cards coverage for NerdWallet. Previously, he was a homepage editor and digital content producer for Fox Sports, and before that a front page editor for Yahoo. He has decades of experience in digital and print media, including stints as a copy desk chief, a wire editor and a metro editor for the McClatchy newspaper chain.

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Flying Blue — the collective loyalty rewards program for Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, among other smaller airlines — offers a co-branded credit card in the U.S.

Issued by Bank of America®, the card earns miles that can be used for flights not only on these airlines but for any travel in the larger SkyTeam Alliance network they are part of, including Delta Air Lines. Monthly promo awards offered by Flying Blue can save you up to 50% off the cost of miles on select routes.

While the card can be an enticing choice for some travelers, even many Flying Blue loyalists may be better off with a general travel card. Here are five things you should know about the Air France credit card.

» MORE: NerdWallet’s best airline credit cards

1. Rewards are healthy

When you say "bonjour" to a new Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® , you’ll receive the following bonus: Get 50,000 Bonus Miles after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. Plus, you’ll earn 60 XP (experience points) upon approval, good toward achieving status in the Flying Blue loyalty program.

On an ongoing basis, the Flying Blue credit card earns these rewards:

3 miles per $1 spent directly on Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and SkyTeam member airlines purchases.

1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases.

While some co-branded airline cards may earn more on certain everyday purchases such as gas or groceries, it’s hard to find one that earns more than 1x per $1 spent on all other purchases.

2. It’s light on some fees, heavy on others

The card does come with an annual fee of $89 , but that's a bit less than other popular airline cards that charge $95 or more. The annual fee is not waived the first year.

You can’t go wrong bringing the card with you when your friends wish you "bon voyage" on that overseas trip, since it doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees.

If you need to carry a balance, though, the Air France card isn’t the best choice. The ongoing APR is 15.99% - 23.99%, Variable , depending on your creditworthiness.

3. You’ll get an anniversary bonus each year

The Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard® gives an extra kicker each year you hold the card, which is uncommon among airline credit cards at this price point. When you spend at least $50 per year on the card, you’ll receive 5,000 miles each year on your cardholder anniversary.

Based on NerdWallet’s analysis , the value of Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles is 1.2 cents each. That means the anniversary bonus you’ll receive is worth around $60.

This is a baseline value from real-world data on hundreds of economy routes, not a maximized value. In other words, you should aim for award redemptions that offer 1.2 cents or more in value from your Flying Blue miles .

» LEARN: 5 Flying Blue award sweet spots

4. Your bags won’t fly free

Unlike many other airline credit cards, the Air France card does not offer free checked bags .

Checked-bag fees with Air France start at $55 and can go as high as $300, depending on the route and the type of baggage. You can save 20% on most fees if you pay for your bags online rather than at the airport, but in any case, holding the card won’t waive the fees.

» MORE: A points collector’s guide to Air France-KLM

5. Other cards that offer 'backdoor' Flying Blue miles could be better

Even Air France-KLM loyalists could be better off using other credit cards to earn Flying Blue miles. That’s because Flying Blue is a transfer partner of many popular credit card programs, including:

Chase Ultimate Rewards® .

American Express Membership Rewards .

Citi ThankYou points .

Capital One miles .

You could use an eligible card from one of these rewards programs to rack up points, and transfer them over to Flying Blue when you’re ready to make a booking. Having a stash of flexible points like these could help fund a wider variety of travel expenses, since you can also use credit card points to book hotels, car rentals and other airlines, or even redeem for cash back.

Occasionally, transferrable credit card programs add bonus miles to point conversions. During these promotional transfer periods, the bonus can be as high as 30% more miles in your Flying Blue account, which can make flexible credit card points even more attractive.

Plus, other cards may earn more rewards on everyday purchases. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , for example, earns 5 points per $1 spent on travel booked through Chase; 3 points per $1 spent on eligible dining, select streaming services and eligible online grocery purchases; 2 points per $1 spent on all other travel; and 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. Or, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card earns 5 miles per $1 spent on eligible travel booked through Capital One and 2 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases.

» SEE: How to choose a travel credit card

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Why i'm keeping my chase sapphire reserve card, i'm keeping my chase sapphire reserve® for its impressive travel benefits and pairing possibilities..

Some offers mentioned below are no longer available.

I've been obsessed with travel since I got my first passport in high school. Over the years, I've used lots of credit cards to fund my trips, from airline cards to cash-back cards .

I've wanted the Chase Sapphire Reserve® since its debut in 2016. With comprehensive travel insurance, an annual $300 travel credit and free room upgrades at luxury hotels, it's ranked one of CNBC Select's top travel cards . But it also comes with a hefty $550 annual fee.

I took the plunge early last year: My fiance and I were taking a lot of trips and we calculated that we'd get enough from the card's travel perks to offset the fee.

We were wrong, though: It's more than paid for itself several times over.

That was in the first year, though, when I received the welcome bonus. Here's why I'm keeping the Chase Sapphire Reserve card for another year — and why it's the only card I'll pay an annual fee for.

Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

My Chase Sapphire Reserve came with a welcome bonus of 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after I spent $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of opening the account. That's $900 I used for hotels and airfare through Chase Travel℠ — or nearly twice the $550 fee I paid.

And for a limited time, the welcome bonus has been increased to 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, making it worth $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠.

While that welcome bonus is just for the first year, I'll still earn points from the card I can put toward more adventures. Chase Ultimate Rewards points can also be applied toward numerous airline and hotel loyalty programs with a 1:1 ratio, including: 

• Aer Lingus   
• Air Canada  
• Air France-KLM
• British Airways  
• Singapore  
• Southwest  
• Virgin Atlantic  
• InterContinental Hotels Group 

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credit

I've saved a few minutes at my home airport with TSA PreCheck , but Global Entry has really come in handy over the years. It enabled me to skip an hours-long line at Chicago O'Hare coming back from Toronto and make a tight connection after a girls' trip to Mexico. It also spared me an eternity at customs and immigration after a 13-hour flight from Taiwan to San Francisco.

My Chase Sapphire Reserve gives me a $100 application fee credit for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry every four years. I need to renew both before 2025, so that's a savings I'll be able to enjoy this year.

Priority Pass lounge access

I like to play a game at the airport where I see how little I can spend. We try to pack snacks from home and pick up lunch before leaving our destination, but it's not always easy. 

That's why I love the lounge access included with my Chase Sapphire Reserve. I get a free Priority Pass™ membership, which allows unlimited entry to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. You can bring up to two guests for free, so I don't have to leave my fiance behind.

Without my Chase Sapphire Reserve, it would cost me about $469 a year for Priority Pass lounge access, plus $35 a guest per visit. The lounges I've visited offer hot meals, snacks, drinks and a comfy place to relax. Some lounges even have showers and the option to rent a room if we have time to catch a nap. 

Priority Pass lounges aren't the only place I can kick back, either: Chase has started its own Sapphire Lounges network and we're excited to check them out in Boston and New York City, where my fiance has family. Without a Sapphire Reserve card, entry into these elite lounges costs $100 per visit. A standalone Priority Pass membership only gets you one complimentary Sapphire Lounge visit a year. After that, it's $75 a pop. (The only exception is Hong Kong, where Priority Pass members enjoy unlimited access to the Sapphire Lounge.)

Granted, lounge access doesn't directly offset Chase Sapphire's $550 annual fee, but in a world of $20 plastic-wrapped sandwiches and $7 coffees, it saves us money in other ways. And the relaxed state of mind it puts us in is priceless.   

The $300 travel credit

Each year when you renew the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you get a $300 annual travel credit that's automatically applied to travel expenses. 

My fiance and I travel a lot so that credit offsets a good chunk of the $550 annual fee. Last year, we used it to book a luxury hotel room in Toronto. In 2024, it's covering flights to friends' weddings and family gatherings.

While the credit can be put toward airfare and hotel rooms, it can also cover:

• Taxis and car services
• Car rentals
• Train tickets
• Campgrounds
• Bus tickets
• Travel agency services

You'd be surprised how quickly you can rack up $300 in just parking and tolls. 

I'm also not charged foreign transaction fees with my Chase Sapphire Reserve, which helped keep costs down when we were in Canada and Asia. We have enough international travel planned that this will continue to be a valuable perk.

It comes with travel insurance

I had to cancel a big road trip In September 2023 because of a family emergency . I foolishly hadn’t bought a travel insurance policy when I made reservations for the house we rented and thought I was out nearly $500,

Then I remembered my Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with travel insurance . I was able to file a claim easily and got reimbursed.   The policy includes coverage for trip delays and cancellations, lost baggage, emergency medical care and even damage to your rental car. It’s on par with offerings from many top travel insurance companies , which typically cost between 3% and 5% of your trip's non-refundable expenses. As an example, it would have cost about $300 just to insure our flight between Japan and Taiwan last year.

I’ve considered getting an annual travel insurance plan to cover all of our trips, but that would cost about $1,000 for both my partner and me, according to several top carriers I’ve quoted. That’s double the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s annual fee. 

Getting coverage through my card means I don’t ever have to think about travel insurance: All the non-refundable trip expenses I pay for with it are automatically covered.  That doesn’t just save me money, it saves me time and mental energy.

I can transfer Ultimate Rewards points between cards

Last winter, we decided to renovate our bathroom and looked for a 0% intro APR card to give us more time to pay off the cost.

We settled on Chase Freedom Unlimited® , which comes with 0% APR for the first 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers. ( After that, it has a variable APR of 20.49% to 29.24%.)

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Enjoy 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; and 3% cash back on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome bonus

INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

0% for the first 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers

Regular APR

20.49% - 29.24% variable

Balance transfer fee

Intro fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that, either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

Member FDIC. Terms apply.

Read our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review.

That gives us enough breathing room to pay for the new bathroom and still clear the balance before our 15-month introductory period ends.

Having a Chase Sapphire Reserve makes the deal sweeter, though, because we can transfer points between the two cards: For an upcoming trip to Southeast Asia, I'm transferring points from my Chase Freedom Unlimited to the Sapphire Reserve card to use in the Chase Travel ℠ portal. That will make them worth 1.5 cents per point, rather than the 1 cent I'd get from Chase Freedom.

It's great for wedding and honeymoon expenses

Since my partner and I got engaged in March, we've been shocked at how expensive weddings are. In 2023, the average cost of a wedding in Ohio was about $30,000, according to The Knot . We hope to come in well below that, but we'll still be on the hook for a lot . 

We hope to use the Chase Sapphire Reserve to pay for hotel rooms for guests and catering from some of Cincinnati's great local restaurants. The card earns 3x points on travel expenses and dining and 10x points on hotels and car rentals made through Chase Travel after the $300 annual travel credit is used. (Through March 2025, cardholders also get 10x points on Lyft, 5x points on flights and 10x points on Chase Dining purchases.). 

Other categories earn 1 point for every dollar, so we'll also get a boost on things like invitations and dress alterations.

When we decide where we want to spend our honeymoon, we'll use the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal to book it: I have my eye on several places in the Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection, which come with complimentary upgrades like late checkout, wifi and room upgrades.

Many people open a new credit card for wedding expenses , but we're sticking to the card we have.

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

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The Chase Sapphire Reserve® Review

Nomadic Matt has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Some or all of the card offers on this page are from advertisers and compensation may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Nomadic Matt and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

The upgraded version of the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, the card_name is my one of my favorite premium cards. It offers a lot of fantastic perks for avid travelers.

While The Platinum Card® from American Express gets all the fanfare in terms of luxury rewards cards , I personally prefer the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. It comes with better points-earning bonus categories; more practical, everyday perks (which I’ll get into below); and more comprehensive travel insurance.

Today, I want to share a bit more about this card so you can determine whether it’s the right card for you.

Table of Contents

What is the Chase Sapphire Reserve®?

Chase sapphire reserve® travel insurance, using your chase ultimate rewards® points, taking advantage of chase’s transfer partners, chase sapphire reserve® vs chase sapphire preferred®, pros of the chase sapphire reserve®, cons of the chase sapphire reserve®, who is the chase sapphire reserve® for.

The card_name (often referred to as CSR) is a travel rewards card issued by Chase. The card comes with a $550 USD annual fee and a host of benefits like lounge access, travel insurance, and an array of statement credits. When used right, these benefits can be worth much more than the annual fee.

One of those benefits is a $300 USD annual travel credit that is very easy to get, effectively reducing the annual fee to a more reasonable $250 USD. You don’t need to do anything extreme to receive this benefit either; the first $300 USD per year that you spend on travel is simply erased from your statement.

Chase also has a very broad definition of what it classifies as travel, making it easy to take advantage of this credit (even parking garages count towards it). According to Chase, they classify travel purchases as including:

“airlines, hotels, motels, timeshares, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds and operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways, and parking lots and garages.”

So, the first $300 USD of purchases you make in any of these categories will be removed from your statement, and after that, you’ll earn 3x points on these purchases.

And that’s just one benefit of the card. With this card, you can earn:

• bonus_miles_full
• $300 annual travel credit
• 3x points on travel (earned after earning your $300 annual travel credit)
• 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services and takeout
• 5x points on flights when booked through Chase Travel(SM)
• 10x points on hotels and rental cars when booked through Chase Travel(SM) after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel(SM)
• 10x points on Lyft + 2-year Lyft Pink membership
• Priority Pass Membership (one-time enrollment required) and access to Sapphire Lounges by The Club
• Up to $100 credit toward Global Entry or TSA Pre-Check every 4 years
• 1 year of complimentary Instacart+ membership (includes up to $15 in statement credits each month through July 2024)
• Complimentary DashPass membership (includes $5 in DoorDash credits each month)
• Travel insurance including emergency medical and dental coverage, emergency evacuation insurance, trip delay coverage, primary car rental insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and trip cancellation insurance
• No foreign transaction fees

The card_name also offers the most comprehensive travel insurance out of any credit card and is one of the only ones to include any kind of medical insurance. It’s my top pick as the best credit card for travel insurance .

As a Visa Infinite® card, the card’s travel insurance includes the following:

• Primary car rental insurance up to $75,000 USD
• Travel accident insurance up to $1,000,000 USD
• Trip cancelation/interruption coverage up to $10,000 USD per person and $20,000 USD per trip
• Trip delay coverage of $500 USD after delays of six hours or more
• Lost luggage coverage up to $3,000 USD
• $100 per day for up to five days if your baggage is delayed
• Emergency medical and dental coverage up to $2,500 USD for treatment (minus a $50 USD deductible)
• Emergency evacuation insurance up to $100,000 USD

While I always recommend purchasing a separate travel insurance policy , having coverage through your credit card is an added benefit that you get at no additional cost.

With this card, you’ll earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. You can use those points like you would any other rewards program: to get cash back, book travel directly, or transfer them to travel partners. You can also redeem them for Amazon or Apple purchases, but these are bad redemption values and I would not recommend using points this way.

The easiest option is to redeem your points for travel in the Chase Travel portal, which works like booking through Expedia or any other online travel agency. When you do this, you’re basically using your points as cash, at a value of 1.5 cents per point. So, for example, if you have 50,000 points, they’ll be worth 75,000 points when redeemed through the portal. This is a better value than if you simply redeem your points directly as cash, as you’ll only get a value of 1 cent per point that way.

Using your points in the Chase Travel portal is very straightforward, making it an attractive option for points and miles newbies . If this is the only way that you’ll use your points, then using them is better than letting them sit around!

Just know that there are pros and cons to using the travel portal. Namely, you can usually get more for your points when you transfer them to Chase’s 14 transfer partners (which is what you should be doing with your points).

The ability to transfer to its partners is what makes Chase Ultimate Rewards® points so valuable. You can usually find airline and hotel redemptions where you can get much more than 1.5 cents per point. While the actual value you can get varies greatly based on flight or hotel, a good benchmark is The Points Guy’s monthly valuation chart , which values Chase Ultimate Rewards® points at over 2 cents per point when used as transferable points.

To give a real-life example, the 50,000 points from the example above could be an off-peak, round-trip economy fare from New York to Paris when redeemed through the Chase Travel portal. But if you transfer points to one of Chase’s partner airlines, you can take advantage of flash deals and saver space, potentially finding the same fare for up to 50% less points. Unless it’s a super cheap flight or hotel room (less than $150 USD), I always transfer points to their travel partners, especially when booking business class flights or fancy hotel rooms. You just get more bang for your buck.

Transferring to airline and hotel partners is a bit more work than using the portal, but there are more tools than ever to help you maximize your points. For example, you can use point.me for finding flights with points and Awayz for finding award hotel stays.

Chase’s current transfer partners are:

Airline Transfer Partners:

• Aer Lingus, AerClub
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• British Airways Executive Club
• Emirates Skywards®
• Flying Blue AIR FRANCE KLM
• Iberia Plus
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards®
• United MileagePlus®
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Hotel Travel Partners:

• IHG® Rewards Club
• Marriott Bonvoy®
• World of Hyatt®

By this point, you might be wondering what makes this card different from its sibling, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® . Both cards currently have the same welcome offer. Both also earn 3x points on dining. You also get travel insurance with both cards, though the insurance offered with the Reserve is much more comprehensive.

Given all that, is the Reserve really worth the higher annual fee?

Ultimately, that’s up to you to decide based on your spending, travel habits, and whether you value the Reserve’s extra perks and benefits. But keep in mind that the real difference in cost between these two cards is only $155 USD per year. Sure, that’s considering the $300 USD annual travel credit on the Reserve, but I’m guessing that anyone thinking of getting a travel rewards card spends at least $300 USD on travel per year. And if you do, you’re likely to come out ahead with the Chase Sapphire Reserve® due to the ability to earn points faster, use statement credits, and take advantage of luxury perks like airport lounge access.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet of the main differences:

• Great rewards-earning rates
• Large welcome offer
• $300 USD travel credit
• 14 fantastic transfer partners
• Excellent travel insurance
• Statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck (up to $100, every 4 years)
• Airport lounge access through Priority Pass membership (enrollment required) and access to Sapphire lounges
• Complimentary memberships (including Lyft Pink, DashPass, InstaCart)
• Large annual fee ($550 USD per year)
• $75 USD authorized user fee

This card is best for frequent travelers. If you get this card, you’ll want to be able take advantage of the card’s accelerated earning rates on travel and dining, travel statement credits, and other travel-specific benefits. You’ll get even more out of this card if you value perks like airport lounge access and expediting your airport experience through Global Entry/TSA Precheck, and will transfer your points to one of Chase’s transfer partners.

If you’re only a semi-regular traveler, you might be better served by the Chase Sapphire Preferred®. This comprehensive review has everything you need to know about that card .

The card_name is one of the best travel rewards cards out there. It comes with a high welcome offer, lots of perks, and robust points-earning capabilities so that you can quickly stack up valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. You get a ton of value with this card. I think it’s worth a spot in the wallet of any frequent traveler.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

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Travel insurance

Even if you’re well prepared, your trip may not always go as planned. Make sure that you’re insured! Our partner Allianz Travel will create an insurance quote that’s tailor-made to your travel plans.

Arrange your insurance

Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a holiday, a travel insurance provided by our partner Allianz Travel lets you travel with peace of mind. You can purchase the insurance when booking your ticket, or via My Trip if you’ve already completed your booking. Note, though: this is only possible for tickets booked directly via us.

Types of insurances

It’s up to you which type of insurance you prefer, so choose the one that fits your travel situation and your needs.

Get the most complete insurance that covers:

• Cancellation or change of your flight in case of unforeseen events
• Medical costs you make abroad in case of illness or an accident
• Lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• Public liability and legal assistance

You can purchase the travel insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel insurance.

Read the full conditions

Read the insurance product information document

Travel assistance insurance

The travel assistance insurance covers:

You can purchase the travel assistance insurance when booking, or via My Trip up until your flight’s departure. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your travel assistance insurance.

Airline ticket cancellation insurance

Need to cancel or change your trip before it even begins due to unforeseen events? With the airline ticket cancellation insurance, you’ll get a compensation of your ticket price, extra options, and the change fee.

You can purchase the airline ticket cancellation insurance when booking, or via My Trip up to 48 hours after booking your ticket. Make sure to carefully read the exact coverage and conditions created by Allianz Travel before arranging your airline ticket cancellation insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Can i take out cancellation insurance after booking.

Yes of course! If you booked your ticket directly with KLM, you can go to My Trip to take out a matching insurance with our partner Allianz Travel. They offer travel insurance, cancellation insurance or a combination of both. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket. Check My Trip for the current offering and costs of a travel or cancellation insurance.

What is travel insurance?

If you take out travel insurance, it helps cover the costs of:

• Medical issues you have when abroad, for instance if you’re ill or injured;
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage;
• Liability and legal counsel.

If you would like more certainty around these unforeseen expenses, travel insurance can help with that.

What is cancellation insurance?

With a cancellation insurance, you will get a refund for your ticket fare, extra options and change fees if unforeseen circumstances arise. It will allow you, depending on your insurance conditions, to cancel or change your trip before it starts. Please note: you can take out the cancellation insurance within 48 hours after booking your ticket.

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Credit cards > Reviews

Chase Sapphire Preferred review 2024: A traveler’s delight packed with perks at a low annual fee 

Ariana Arghandewal

Glen Luke Flanagan

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

Updated 1:16 p.m. UTC May 13, 2024

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Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers generous rewards on travel and dining and a straightforward redemption program. It’s an excellent choice for both frequent and aspiring travelers looking to maximize their everyday spending.

Editor’s Note: This article contains updated information from a previously published story .

Why trust our credit card experts

Our team of experts evaluates hundreds of credit cards and analyzes thousands of data points to help you find the best card for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content. You can read more about our methodology below.

• 50+ cards analyzed.
• 8 data points considered.
• 5-step fact-checking process.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Welcome bonus.

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

Regular APR

Credit score.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Editor’s take

• Flexible points that can be transferred to 14 travel partners or redeemed through Chase Travel℠ at 1.25 cents each.
• $50 annual statement credit toward Chase Travel hotel bookings.
• Valuable travel protections.
• $95 annual fee.
• Category bonuses are limited and not competitive against other travel cards.
• Transfer partner list is limited compared to programs like Amex Membership® Rewards and Citi ThankYou®.

Card details

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Chase Sapphire Preferred basics

• Annual fee: $95.
• Welcome bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.
• Rewards: 5 points per $1 on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per $1 on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per $1 on all other travel purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchasess.
• APR: 21.49% to 28.49% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.
• Other perks and benefits: $50 annual Chase Travel hotel credit, six months Instacart+ subscription, complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription for a year.
• Does the issuer offer a preapproval tool? Yes.
• Recommended credit score : Good to excellent.
• Generous category bonuses: The Sapphire Preferred earns 5 points per $1 on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per $1 on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per $1 on all other travel purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
• Excellent redemption options: The card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points , which you can transfer to more than a dozen airline and hotel options. They include Hyatt, United, JetBlue and others. Alternatively, you can redeem points for travel through the Chase Travel portal at 1.25 cents each. 
• Valuable travel benefits: The Sapphire Preferred offers a $50 annual hotel credit when booked through Chase Travel. The card also offers valuable travel protections including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, primary rental car insurance and baggage delay insurance.
• $95 annual fee: The Sapphire Preferred’s $95 annual fee is reasonable for what the card offers, but cardholders should analyze the value they’re likely to get from the Sapphire Preferred’s rewards and benefits to ensure they’re getting their money’s worth.
• No elite travel perks. The card doesn’t offer benefits found on some other, more premium travel credit cards like airport lounge access , hotel perks or trusted traveler application fee credits.
• Chase 5/24 rule: The card is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule . If you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the last 24 months with any issuer, you’re not eligible for this card.

About the Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the most popular travel rewards cards on the market for good reason. It earns simple and generous rewards on dining and also on travel booked through the Chase Travel site. Plus it comes with valuable perks and benefits, all in a relatively low $95 annual fee package.

The card earns 5 points per $1 on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per $1 on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per $1 on all other travel purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases. Ultimate Rewards are flexible and can be redeemed for cash back, merchandise or gift cards. But savvy points-and-miles pros know that the more valuable use is to redeem points for travel through Chase at a rate of 1.25 cents per point or transfer them to one of Chase’s travel loyalty partners at a rate of 1:1.

There are no foreign transaction fees with this card, making it a great choice for international travelers. Plus, the card also comes with a wide array of benefits unique to a card at this price point, like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary car rental insurance , purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.

One potential drawback with this card is that you must have good credit to be approved, so if your credit score isn’t up to par, you may not qualify. And, someone seeking luxury perks at the airport may find that the card’s lack of lounge access or trusted traveler credits might mean it’s worth it to pay for a more premium travel credit card with those features. But for those getting started with travel rewards and those who don’t need the privileges that a more expensive credit card can offer, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a top-notch choice.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns points at generous rates: 5 points per $1 on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per $1 on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per $1 on all other travel purchases and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.

There’s also a welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. The rewards you earn are flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Using government data and other publicly available information, we estimate that a household in the U.S. that would be in the market for the Sapphire Preferred has an annual income of $84,352 and $25,087 in expenses they are likely to be able to charge to a credit card. Here’s a breakdown of how much you could earn from credit card spending based on that:

You could earn even more by booking your flights and hotel stays through the Chase travel portal. In that case, the $2,056 spent on such bookings, minus the $50 hotel credit would net you 10,030 points. That brings the total annual estimated earnings to 51,699 points.

Points can be redeemed for statement credits, travel through the Chase Travel portal, gift cards and merchandise. When redeemed through the Chase Travel portal for travel bookings, points are worth 1.25 cents each. However, the best value for your points will generally be to transfer them to one of Chase’s airline and hotel partners and  book award travel through the partner’s loyalty program.

Be aware, travel booked through the Chase portal is not the same as booking directly with an airline or hotel, and any changes or cancellations to your plans will require you to deal with Chase Travel and not the supplier directly. 

Especially considering this is a mid-tier travel card with a reasonable annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is loaded with travel benefits . First up, you can get up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year to reimburse hotels booked through Chase Travel. Plus, the welcome bonus is fairly generous for a card at this price point.

You also get the following travel protections when using this card:

• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip.
• Baggage delay insurance up to $100 per day for five days on delays over six hours.
• Trip delay insurance up to $500 per ticket on delays over 12 hours or requiring an overnight stay.
• Primary car rental insurance when you decline the rental company’s coverage.
• Referrals for legal, medical and other travel and emergency assistance (you are responsible for any costs incurred).

Last, but certainly not least, you can book travel for 25% more value per point through the Chase portal, or transfer rewards 1:1 to the following partners:

• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• British Airways Executive Club
• Emirates Skywards®
• Flying Blue AIR FRANCE KLM
• Iberia Plus
• IHG One Rewards
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Marriott Bonvoy
• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
• United MileagePlus
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
• World of Hyatt

How the Chase Sapphire Preferred compares to other travel cards

Chase sapphire preferred vs. chase sapphire reserve®.

The Sapphire Preferred and Sapphire Reserve are both travel cards from Chase with generous rewards and benefits. Like the Preferred, the Reserve offers a generous welcome bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

The main difference between them is the annual fee and the benefits that come with the price point — the Preferred has a $95 annual fee, while the Reserve has an annual fee of $550 and $75 per authorized user. The Sapphire Reserve also offers more rewards per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and an up to $300 annual travel credit. Additionally, the Reserve offers access to airport lounges, while the Preferred does not.

Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card * The information for the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The Citi Strata Premier and the Chase Sapphire Preferred have the same $95 annual fee. The Strata Premier comes with a welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. However, the two travel cards have different strengths. The Citi Strata Premier earns 10 ThankYou® points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com, 3 points per $1 on air travel and other hotel purchases, at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations and EV charging stations and 1 point per $1 on other purchases. 

While this rewards structure is similar to that of the Sapphire Preferred, not all of the travel earning rate is restricted to a specific booking portal like the Sapphire Preferred is. The Citi Strata Premier also provides a $100 annual hotel savings perk on bookings of $500 or more (before taxes and fees when booking through ThankYou.com, once each calendar year) – it’s higher than what the Sapphire Preferred offers but also has a higher spending threshold. Citi also has more travel transfer partners than Chase.

Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card * The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Charging the same $95 annual fee, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a welcome bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. The card earns 5 miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and purchases through Capital One Entertainment and 2 miles per $1 on other purchases, making it ideal if you want a simple rewards card with a straightforward earn structure. 

You can transfer Capital One miles to multiple airline and hotel programs or redeem them for travel at 1 cent each. The Capital One Venture Card also offers premium perks like two complimentary Capital One lounge visits per year, an up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit every four years and no foreign transaction fees.

Should you get the Chase Sapphire Preferred?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a great option for those who want a card with a reasonable annual fee that earns bonus rewards on travel, dining and certain everyday spending categories. The card provides access to earning Chase Ultimate Rewards — widely considered one of the best credit card rewards programs, thanks to its flexible redemption options — and comes with some valuable travel and purchase protections, too. 

You can transfer points 1:1 to partner airlines and hotels or redeem them directly with Chase at a favorable rate. However, this card might not be the best fit if you won’t use its perks or won’t spend enough to make up for the $95 annual fee in rewards earned.

Chase Sapphire Preferred summary

Methodology

Our credit cards team has spent hours analyzing hundreds of travel credit cards. We took a deep dive into the details of each product and that analysis, combined with our years of experience covering credit cards, informed us as we developed these credit card rankings. We factored the following into our analysis:

• Annual fees.
• Travel reward rates.
• Value of rewards.
• Redemption options.
• Additional benefits that a card may offer for travelers, such as travel insurance.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is considered a midrange card, due to its $95 annual fee and the benefits it provides. It offers bonus points for travel purchases and on various everyday spending categories, no foreign transaction fees, travel protections and flexible rewards redemption options.

Chase has not published an income requirement for the Sapphire Preferred. When reviewing your application, Chase considers your credit score, history and ability to repay debt.

Chase has not publicly disclosed the credit score requirements for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. However, most applicants will need good-to-excellent credit to be approved. A good credit score is defined by FICO as 670 to 739, while an excellent score is 800 and higher. You’ll have a much better chance of approval if your credit score is at least a 700.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including cash back, gift cards and merchandise. Points can also be transferred 1:1 to more than a dozen airline and hotel loyalty programs. Additionally, points on your Sapphire Preferred account can be used to book travel through Chase Travel at a value of 1.25 cents each.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is worth the annual fee if you use the benefits and spend in the rewards categories. The welcome bonus alone is worth much more than the annual fee, but after the first year, you’ll need to evaluate the other benefits. For example, if you use the $50 hotel credit (valid on Chase Travel bookings) and earn at least 4,500 points (worth $45 in cash back) from the category bonuses, you’ll break even with the $95 annual fee.

*The information for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Citi Strata Premier℠ Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

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

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

Ariana Arghandewal is a travel hacker and travel rewards expert who leverages credit cards to earn over a million miles every year. She is the founder of Pointchaser, an award-winning blog where she covered rewards travel and credit cards since 2012.

Glen Luke Flanagan is a deputy editor on the USA TODAY Blueprint credit cards team. Prior to joining Blueprint, he served as a deputy editor on the credit cards team at Forbes Advisor, and covered credit cards, credit scoring and related topics as a senior writer at LendingTree. He’s passionate about helping people understand personal finance so they can make the best decisions possible for their wallet. Glen holds a master's degree in technical and professional communication from East Carolina University and a bachelor's degree in journalism from Radford University.

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