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The Guide to Senior Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

The best senior travel insurance options

Tips for selecting travel insurance for seniors, what else seniors need to know about travel insurance, travel insurance for seniors, recapped.

Travel insurance is a smart way to protect the money you have invested in a big trip in case unforeseen hurdles stop you from traveling. Seemingly now more than ever, last-minute changes can disrupt a trip, and in some cases, the money spent on nonrefundable purchases is at risk. There are numerous travel insurance options for people older than 65, but it is important to understand the nuances of senior travel insurance.

Medical issues or situations at (or en route to) your destination can stifle even the best-laid plans. Many credit cards include travel insurance as one of their benefits. These plans can assist in the event of lost or delayed baggage, flight delays and cancellations, and other adjustments to a trip paid for with that particular card.

When buying supplemental senior citizen travel insurance, don’t rely on the default option presented by your travel provider. There are many considerations to take into account, like how far from home you plan to be, the potential for injury or sickness (including your pre-existing medical conditions), and what may already be covered by other insurance plans you have.

For example, medical evacuation may not be covered, but local transportation to a hospital may be. And remember that U.S. health plans or Medicare coverage are especially limited outside of the country.

Here are some options worth reviewing from a handful of insurance providers: Allianz, Medjet, Travelers and your specific travel provider.

Here are a select few senior travel insurance options for people 65 and older.

Allianz offers excellent coverage for travelers over 65. It can help make payments for medical treatments overseas, even in the local currency and their preferred payment methods, to keep you from paying out of pocket.

For longer trips, it offers an AllTrips Prime Plan in increments of three, six or 12 months (ideal if you plan to vacation elsewhere during the winter months, for example). This plan covers emergency medical transport. The company takes into account certain pre-existing medical conditions so be sure to read the fine print.

If you fall ill or need assistance during your travels, Medjet ’s supplemental coverage for medical transportation helps you get to your home or the hospital of your choice. It includes air medical transport. This is a membership program that covers emergencies and can be tacked onto trips or purchased annually. While not technically travel insurance, this company offers an additional medical transport option for emergencies.

This coverage can be helpful if you're planning to travel in remote or unfamiliar areas, such as on safaris, to secluded islands and other far-flung destinations.

» Learn more: Does travel insurance cover medical expenses?

Most other travel insurers might only get you to the nearest appropriate hospital facility. For travelers younger than 75, Medjet offers no pre-existing medical condition exclusions and it doesn't rule out the same number of activities that other providers might.

3. Travelers

With the option to buy an annual, multi-trip protector, Travelers insurance covers a whole year of trips with the option to upgrade several features. The add-ons include “Cancel For Any Reason” insurance and trip interruption coverage.

4. Your travel provider’s own plan

On certain types of trips, say a cruise or a Caribbean resort that is prone to hurricanes, using the travel provider’s recommended insurance can be a good bet. This coverage is usually offered as an add-on during the booking process, but it can also be added after the reservation.

Most likely, these policies are designed to cover delay or cancellation issues, but be sure to read the fine print to see if medical transportation or trip interruption is also included.

Choosing a provider of your own can make sense when planning your own travel (let’s say a honeymoon to Paris or the Maldives). If a cruise line or safari outfitter offers insurance of its own, that might be the most comprehensive when it comes to that particular provider’s operations.

» Learn more: The best cruise insurance

Deciding if you need travel insurance is the first hurdle. Next comes the task of selecting the right one without spending more than the cost of what you are actually trying to protect. These are some important tips to consider.

Compare plans

It is wise to compare the options available using aggregator websites like SquareMouth (a NerdWallet partner) and InsureMyTrip.com. These sites compare the options from dozens of different providers detailing what they do and do not cover.

Seeing the exclusions as well as considering them within the framework of your trip can help you select the best plan for your travel needs.

Consider existing coverage

Review your existing coverage, whether that is via your health insurance or any credit card protections you may have. Some of the benefits you might be paying extra for when getting supplemental travel insurance may already be covered.

Read the fine print

Don’t base your final decision on price, as sometimes the cheapest policy may be the most restrictive — and the most expensive policy may give you coverage for activities you won't even be doing.

What may seem like an inclusion may actually be disallowed due to a technicality (terrorist attack or war). If you’re not sure, pick up the phone and ask if your specific situation is covered.

Timing is key. The sooner you buy your travel insurance coverage, the more time you have to benefit from it. The price could also rise the closer you get to departure. If you wait until the departure date to buy it, you would be out of luck if the week before you get sick or the destination closes its borders. Buying insurance after an issue arises won't help you.

Travel insurance is a safe way to protect that sunken cost. Spending money on travel, even with the benefit of loyalty program miles and points to offset some of the cost, can be a significant investment. Chances are that you won’t even need it, but like other insurance policies, it can pay off in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Weigh the cost of potential expenses with the insurance plan. Canceling a rental car for a road trip may not be a big deal, but business class flights and a nonrefundable cruise might be.

Credit card coverage only protects you if you use that card to pay for your travel. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express also offer travel insurance benefits when paying with points, too. Terms apply. Using the right card for your trip can help save money on other potential travel insurance costs.

» Learn more: Best travel insurance options for older adventurers

What may seem like an unnecessary extra cost can actually help save the day in certain circumstances.

It can pay dividends to understand what your existing coverage includes (especially via a particular credit card) so that travelers over 65 make the most advantageous insurance decision for their trips.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

Personal Finance

Best travel insurance for seniors for 2024.

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

Older people are among the country’s most frequent travelers. According to Squaremouth , an online travel insurance marketplace, age 60 and above is the most active age group for travel, with a nearly 37% share. 

If you’re a senior—and whether you’re planning the trip of a lifetime or a short getaway—you may want to consider travel insurance. Travel is costly and can be complex. New concerns, such as COVID-19, add to traditional concerns, such as losing your luggage or having a problem with a tour provider. An insurance policy can protect your travel investment and ensure you have the coverage you need when far from home.

Travel insurance for seniors can be much more expensive than for younger travelers. A quote from Nationwide was 161% more expensive for a pair of 65-year-olds than for a pair of 30-year-olds. A quote from Seven Corners was 212% more expensive for the older couple! So you do owe it to yourself to shop around and make sure the policy you choose offers the coverages you need at a price that works for your travel budget.

Compare the best travel insurance for seniors

Our recommendations for the best travel insurance companies for seniors, best for spontaneous travel: aig travel guard.

AIG Travel Guard

Pros & cons:.

• Pack N’ Go plan helps spontaneous travelers save money.
• Amount of medical coverage is on the lower end.

One of the great things about retirement is the ability to get up and go when you please. If spontaneous travel is your thing, AIG Travel Guard could be a great choice. Its Pack N’ Go plan helps you save money off the company’s already competitive pricing by eliminating trip cancellation coverage. 

Best for annual plans: Allianz

Allianz Travel Insurance

• Wide variety of travel insurance plans, including annual plans.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is included with all plans.
• Medical coverage is lower than that offered by other providers.
• Baggage coverage is lower than that offered by other providers.

If you travel a lot, you might consider purchasing an annual travel insurance plan. This provides coverage for all your travels in a 12-month period. And a great company to check with would be Allianz, which offers four levels of annual plans (in addition to five single-trip plans). With so many plan choices, you can likely find a policy that works for your coverage needs and budget.  

Best for cruises: Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

• Available travel insurance plan with cruise-specific coverages.
• Medical coverage is lower than that offered by other providers in our review.

If you’re planning to take a cruise, you’re not alone. The cruise industry is booming . Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance offers a cruise package that accounts for the financial risk of booking a cruise, including coverage for missed connections, cruise disablement, and cruise diversion. The plan also includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation coverage at higher levels than what is available with the company’s most economical travel insurance plan.  

Best for medical coverage: Generali

Generali Travel Insurance

• Up to $250,000 of medical expense coverage is available.
• Medical evacuation coverage is among the highest.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions not available with its most economical plan.

If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll want to pay close attention to your travel insurance medical coverage. The fact is, U.S. private health insurance does not typically provide coverage outside of the country and neither does Medicare. So if you become ill or get injured while traveling, you’ll need to rely on your travel insurance to cover the costs of any medical care. 

Generali ’s most economical plan provides a generous $50,000 worth of medical coverage. This can be bumped up to $150,000 by choosing its mid-range plan or $250,000 with its top plan. The company also provides $250,000 of coverage for medical evacuation, which is among the highest levels of coverage in the plans we reviewed. 

Best for budget travel: Nationwide

Nationwide Travel Insurance

• Lowest cost plan in our review.
• High level of medical coverage.
• Cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage is only available with its most expensive plan.

ons is included with all plans.

Nationwide is another company that offers multiple plan options (including annual), ensuring you find the coverage you need at a price that works for your budget. The company was also the lowest-cost provider in our review, making it a good choice for budget travel. 

And with Nationwide, low cost doesn’t mean less coverage. Its $75,000 of medical coverage and $250,000 of medical evacuation coverage are on the high side.  

Best for cancel-for-any-reason coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Optional CFAR coverage reimburses up to 75% of prepaid expenses.
• Medical coverage available with the most economical plan is the highest of any in our review.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available only with more expensive plans.
• Most expensive plan in our review.

COVID-19 remains a concern for many seniors. Most plans’ standard trip cancellation coverage doesn’t pay if you decide to cancel because COVID has flared up at your destination. For that kind of flexibility, you need cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage. CFAR can be added to Seven Corners ’s most economical plan for an extra fee ($204 in our quote). It provides reimbursement of up to 75% of your non-refundable, prepaid expenses if you decide to cancel because of concerns about COVID or any other reason not covered by your trip cancellation coverage.  

Best for car damage insurance: John Hancock

Travelex Travel Insurance

• $50,000 car rental coverage available with all plans
• Optional cancel-for-any-reason coverage available with all plans for 50% of the plan cost
• John Hancock’s plan is one of the more expensive in our review

If your international trip includes driving, you’ll want to be sure you have coverage in case something happens to your rental car. While your personal car insurance policy may include coverage for driving a rental in the U.S. and Canada, it likely provides no coverage in other countries. (Be sure to talk to your agent or car insurance company before you travel to understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover.) 

Most of the companies in our review offer optional rental car coverage; this includes John Hancock . Its generous $50,000 of coverage is available with even its cheapest travel plan, at an affordable $9 per day. That can help cover the cost of any damage that occurs while you’re out exploring.

Best for traveling with children: Travelex

• Children can be covered for no additional cost with the Travelex Select plan.
• Can upgrade to include car rental coverage.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is not available with its most economical plan.

What better way to spoil your grandchildren than to take them on vacation? If you’re traveling with minor children, consider Travelex for your insurance needs. The Travelex Select plan includes free coverage for children under age 17, provided their costs do not exceed those of the adults on the policy.  

Methodology

We reviewed plans from several leading travel insurance companies, relying on information gathered from company websites. Our review focused on trip coverages, medical expense coverages, and baggage coverages. We also noted which companies offered options such as coverage for pre-existing conditions and cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage. Be sure to check your policy to confirm which coverages and features are available with your plan.

Our cost information is based on quotes for each company’s lowest-cost policy. We quoted two 65-year-old travelers for a five-day trip to Hawaii in December 2023 valued at $8,000. These costs are provided for comparison purposes only. Your travel insurance costs will vary based on factors such as your number of covered travelers, destination, plan choice, and optional coverages.  

How to choose the best travel insurance for seniors

Choosing travel insurance as a senior means paying attention to many of the same features and benefits as any other shopper. However, there may be some aspects of a policy that you’ll want to pay particular attention to, depending on your needs. Always be sure to review your policy documents carefully to understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover.

Here is a rundown of the main features of a travel insurance policy:

Trip coverages

The standard trip coverages are trip cancellation and trip interruption. These help reimburse your costs if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to an illness, accident, or other reason outlined in the policy. These coverages typically apply if a family member becomes ill, prompting you to cancel or cut short your trip—but check how “family” is defined, if you’re worried about a cousin or someone else not in your immediate family.

Note that these coverages typically do apply if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 prior to departure. For example, a policy would likely pay a claim you file if you need to cancel your trip because you contract COVID-19 two days before leaving home. However, these coverages typically do not apply if there’s a sudden outbreak of COVID-19 (or any other illness) at your destination, and you decide not to travel. For that situation, you’d want to add cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage. CFAR, as the label implies, provides reimbursement regardless of why you cancel your plans. 

Medical coverages

Travel insurance policies typically include emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation coverages. These reimburse your medical costs if you’re injured or become ill while traveling. Some travel insurance plans may deny claims if your injury happens as a result of an adventure sport or other risky activity. However, if you know you’re going to engage in one of these activities, you may be able to add this coverage as an option. 

You may want to check if your policy offers a waiver for pre-existing medical conditions. This means that if you file a medical claim, the insurance company cannot examine your medical history to determine if that claim should be covered. Without this waiver, the company could deny a claim for a medical emergency related to a chronic condition. 

Finally, keep in mind that private health insurance typically doesn’t provide coverage outside of the U.S. Public health insurance, such as Medicare and Medicaid, doesn’t provide international coverage either. It’s one more reason to make sure your travel insurance policy medical coverage is as robust as possible.

Baggage coverages

Having your luggage lost or stolen is a common frustration among travelers. With baggage coverage, you’ll be reimbursed if your luggage is lost, stolen, or delayed in transit. Most of the plans we reviewed provide several hundred dollars of coverage, which should help you pay to replace clothing and personal items so you can continue your travels comfortably.  

Optional coverages

Depending on your needs, you may want to consider other optional coverages. 

One such option is rental car coverage, which is offered by each of the providers in our review. Rental car coverage can be a much less costly option than choosing the collision and loss damage waiver offered by the rental car agent. And note that while the comprehensive and collision coverage on a personal car insurance policy often extend to rentals in the U.S., they do not extend to cars rented in other countries.  

How to get international travel insurance for seniors

Travel insurance is easy to shop for and buy. All of the companies in our review offer online quotes that you can receive in just minutes. The information you need to key in to get a quote is simple: The age of everyone in your party, where you live, your travel destination and dates, and the cost of your trip. 

You can also consider using services such as Travelinsurance.com or Squaremouth . These act as online insurance brokers that provide quotes from multiple insurance companies. You only need to key in your information once to get a wide range of plans and prices.   

What factors determine the cost of travel insurance for seniors?

Your travel insurance cost can be affected by several features. These include:

• Number of travelers in your party.
• Traveler age.
• Destination.
• Cost of trip.
•  Plan and optional coverage selections.

As with any type of insurance, you owe it to yourself to shop around. Note that there is a $198 difference between the most and least expensive plans in our review. Just make sure that you’re getting the coverage you need for your travels. 

TIME Stamp: Consider buying insurance if you have travel plans

Many seniors love to travel. If you’re of that age and have travel plans, consider travel insurance. A policy provides financial protection in the event you have to cancel your trip and provides important medical coverage wherever your travels take you. Bon voyage! 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How can seniors save on travel insurance.

To save on travel insurance (at any age), shop around. You’ll find that plans vary in cost among providers. 

You should also see if your credit card offers any travel insurance benefits, such as car rental insurance . You may find that your card provides coverage for the entire cost of your trip, or that you can supplement it with a basic plan from one of the insurers in our review.  

What travel insurance is best for seniors?

The best travel insurance for a senior depends on the traveler’s coverage needs and budget. Each of the providers in our review offers multiple plans at different prices. They also offer options to customize coverage. 

Should seniors buy travel insurance?

Seniors should strongly consider buying travel insurance before leaving home. Even the most intrepid senior traveler has heightened concerns that younger travelers may not share, such as the need for medical coverage and medical evacuation coverage, or coverage that can apply if a destination experiences a flare-up of COVID-19 or other infectious disease. 

Can a 70-year-old get travel insurance?

Yes. Many travel insurance companies offer plans for those 70 and older.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

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65 or Older? Here Are The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors

The top-rated plans all have at least $100,000 in travel medical coverage and at least $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage., erica lamberg, erica lamberg's most recent stories.

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We may receive payment from affiliate links included within this content. Our affiliate partners do not influence our editorial opinions or analysis. To learn more, see our Advertiser Disclosure .

With more than a year of travel adventures lost, it’s time to consider how you’ll explore the world again. Whether you’re going across the country or around the world, travel insurance for seniors can provide a valuable safety net if a trip goes wrong. Here are the best senior travel insurance plans based on our ratings of two dozen travel insurance policies.

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All the winning travel insurance plans below include coverage for Covid in trip cancellation and travel medical benefits

Nationwide Cruise Choice Plan

Why we picked it: Nationwide Cruise Choice Plan offers superior benefits at excellent prices for senior travelers.

This plan provides $100,000 per person for emergency medical expenses and $500,000 per person for emergency medical evacuation . You will also get non-medical evacuation coverage of $25,000 per person, which covers transportation if you have to move to a safe location due to a natural disaster or civil/political unrest.

Nationwide’s Cruise Choice Plan has top-notch baggage loss coverage of $2,500 per person. Other highlights include missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person after only a three hour wait and the option to add “cancel for any reason” coverage.

If you are looking for an upgrade, it’s worth taking a look at Nationwide’s Cruise Luxury plan.

Potential drawbacks: Travel delay coverage of $750 per person is low compared to top competitors.

Trawick International Safe Travels First Class Plan

Why we picked it: Trawick’s International Safe Travels First Class plan has excellent prices for seniors and a wide range of solid benefits.

The plan comes with $150,000 per person in emergency medical expenses and $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage. You’ll also get $2,000 per person in baggage loss coverage and $1,000 per person for missed connections (cruises and tours only).

The plan has good travel delay coverage of $1,000 per person but only after a 12-hour delay. And if you’re the type of traveler who wants the ultimate flexibility, you can add “cancel for any reason” coverage to your policy.

Potential drawbacks: Baggage delays and travel delays are only reimbursed after a 12-hour delay. That’s a long time compared to some top competitors that require only six hours (or less).

Related: Best Senior Travel Insurance Plans Of 2021

AXA Assistance USA Gold Plan

Why we picked it: Great prices for senior travelers make AXA’s Gold plan an attractive option.

The plan comes with $100,000 per person in emergency medical expenses and $500,000 per person for emergency medical evacuation. You’ll also get non-medical evacuation coverage of $50,000 per person in case you need to move to safety because of a natural disaster or civil/political unrest.

AXA’s Gold plan has good baggage loss coverage of $1,500 per person. It has generous missed connection coverage of $1,000 per person if you miss your cruise or tour. The plan also includes concierge services.

Potential drawbacks: AXA’s Gold plan does not offer optional “cancel for any reason” coverage.

Cat 70 Travel Plan

Why we picked it: Superior coverage for medical expenses at very competitive prices for seniors makes the Cat 70 plan a solid choice for senior travelers.

Cat 70’s Travel plan pairs a whopping $500,000 per person in emergency medical expenses with $500,000 per person in emergency medical evacuation coverage. Travelers seeking trip cancellation flexibility can add “cancel for any reason” coverage.

Potential drawbacks: Compared to some top competitors, reimbursement is on the lower end for travel delay ($500 per person), lost baggage ($500 per person) and baggage delay ($200 per person after 24 hours).

HTH Worldwide TripProtector Classic Plan

Why we picked it: Excellent prices for seniors make the TripProtector Classic plan worthy of consideration.

TripProtector Classic comes with $250,000 per person in emergency medical expenses and $1 million per person in emergency medical evacuation coverage. The plan includes good travel delay benefits at $1,000 per person after a six-hour delay.

Senior travelers looking for even better benefits (at a higher cost) may want to upgrade to the Worldwide TripProtector Preferred plan.

Potential drawbacks: Baggage delay benefits might be insufficient at $200 per person after a 12-hour delay and you won’t have the option of adding “cancel for any reason” coverage.

Tin Leg Gold Plan

Why we picked it: Tin Leg’s Gold plan offers ample medical benefits at competitive prices for seniors.

With $500,000 per person for emergency medical expenses and $500,000 per person for emergency medical evacuation coverage, Tin Leg’s Gold plan has some of the highest medical benefits among top competitors.

You will also have the option to add “cancel for any reason” coverage.

Potential drawbacks: Reimbursement is low compared to top competitors for travel delay ($500 per person), baggage delay ($200 per person after a 24-hour delay) and baggage loss ($500 per person).

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services Ruby Plan

Why we picked it: USI Affinity’s Ruby plan has solid medical benefits and very competitive prices for seniors who are traveling.

The plan comes with $250,000 per person in emergency medical expenses and $500,000 per person for emergency medical evacuation. If you want the flexibility to cancel your trip, you’ll have the option to add “cancel for any reason” coverage.

Potential drawbacks: Baggage delay ($300 per person) and baggage and personal items loss ($1,000 per person) are lower than top competitors and might be insufficient for senior travelers looking for higher coverage amounts.

Tips for Seniors Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can be essential for many types of trips, but seniors are particularly vulnerable to travel-related problems. Most notably, travelers age 65+ should consider a travel insurance policy with medical insurance and medical evacuation benefits.

Understand Insurance Needs When Traveling Abroad

With the vaccine rollout and countries relaxing border restrictions, you may be thinking about taking that river cruise to Portugal or a wine tour in France.

It’s important to know that when you travel outside the United States a domestic health insurance plan will not generally travel with you. This includes Medicare.

A key focus for seniors should be travel insurance with high limits of travel medical insurance, says Jeremy Murchland, president of travel insurance company Seven Corners. “Some plans on the market limit coverage to only $25,000 or $50,000,” he says. “Depending on the type of care needed, this may not be enough to cover the cost.”

“Most Medicare plans will not cover a person outside of the U.S. or U.S. territories,” explains Gail Manganite, lead customer advocate for InsureMyTrip, a travel insurance comparison provider. She notes that there are some Medigap and supplemental plans that offer health coverage outside the U.S., but deductibles and copayments will still apply.

Find out if your current health insurance includes emergency medical coverage outside the country and what restrictions apply. Then you’ll know how much travel medical insurance you need to fill the gap.

If you want top-notch coverage, look for travel insurance plans that offer $500,000 in medical coverage.

Get Medical Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

You don’t want a pre-existing condition to flare up during a trip, but in case it happens, have a travel insurance plan that covers it. You do this by getting a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.

The availability of this important waiver is time-limited:  You’ll have to add it to a travel insurance plan within a specified number of days from the date you make your first trip payment. For example, Seven Corners’ RoundTrip Choice plan covers pre-existing conditions if you buy it within 20 days of the date of your initial trip payment.

But your plan might have a window of only 14 days to get pre-existing conditions covered.

Plan for Medical Evacuation Coverage

If you require an emergency airlift back to the United States, it could easily cost $100,000 or more for private, emergency transport. Emergency medical evacuation insurance pays to move you to a medical facility with appropriate and necessary care if the facility where you are located is unable to provide the level of care needed for your medical condition, says Murchland.

You can find travel insurance plans with up to $1 million in coverage for emergency medical evacuation.

Be Aware of “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

“Cancel for any reason” coverage is an add-on that you can tack on to some travel insurance plans. It will add about 40% to your travel insurance cost but gives you the widest flexibility to cancel the trip for any reason and get some reimbursement (typically 50% or 75%).

Without it, you’ll receive trip cancellation reimbursement only if you cancel for a reason listed in the base policy, such as an illness or injury that forces you to abandon travel plans. “Cancel for any reason” coverage will give you the option to cancel for reasons like a sudden fear of flying or simply changing your mind.

Consider Customer Service Options

Murchland says to pick a travel insurance company that has services that match your comfort level.

“For example, Seven Corners has found that a higher percentage of seniors wish to discuss a travel insurance plan over the phone and, in some cases, want assistance selecting a plan and executing a purchase,” he says. “In today’s world of chat bots and email, this is an important consideration for seniors who would prefer to talk with a person.”

Stay on Top of Your Insurance Timeline

Buying a travel insurance plan early and taking the time to read it can pay off later. In addition, a travel insurance agent can help you understand what the policy covers and find plans that fit your travel insurance concerns. It’s wise to:

• Buy your plan early (shortly after you make your first trip deposit) so you don’t miss out on key benefits like pre-existing conditions coverage.
• Review your plan information well before your trip . Understand what reasons are covered for trip cancellation insurance claims. If you want broader coverage, consider adding “cancel for any reason” coverage, which also needs to be added shortly after your first trip payment.
• Feel comfortable asking questions to ensure you understand your plan and how it works.
• Keep in mind that travel insurance plans offer 24/7 travel assistance help . If you run into trouble during your trip, make use of the professional help available for language translation, finding a pharmacy and much more.

Methodology

Using data provided by Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison provider, we evaluated 24 travel insurance plans that have at least $100,000 in travel medical coverage and at least $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage. Scores were based on:

• Travel insurance rates (50% of score) for a range of travelers age 65 and older, for trips in a variety of lengths, destinations and costs.
• Coverage benefits (50% of score) including travel medical expenses, cancel for any reason availability, Covid coverage, medical evacuation, baggage delay, baggage loss, missed connection, non-medical evacuation, travel delay.

Erica Lamberg is a personal finance and travel writer based in suburban Philadelphia. She is a regular contributor to USA Today, and her writing credits include NBC News, U.S. News & World Report, Business Insider, Oprah Magazine and Creditcards.com . 

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How to Find the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

Comparing options from multiple travel insurance companies and checking out reviews are the best ways to find coverage that works for you..

4+ years writing insurance and personal finance content

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Anna leverages her personal finance and insurance knowledge to create educational content that helps people make smart financial decisions.

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Updated December 10, 2023

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Table of contents

What is travel insurance.

• Find travel insurance
• Factors to consider

Travel insurance can come in very handy for seniors who travel frequently. It provides a financial safety net that lets you recoup your money if a trip doesn’t go as planned. Policies cover various expenses, like doctor visits, ambulance services, medical treatment, lost baggage, and more.

Here’s what you need to know about the best travel insurance for seniors.

Travel insurance covers unexpected events that occur while traveling, including illnesses, injuries, lost luggage, damaged electronics, and canceled flights due to inclement weather or natural disasters. With affordable travel insurance, you can protect against financial losses and risks while away from home. It allows you to book trips in confidence during your senior years. [1]

How to find the best travel insurance

Here are some tips to help you zero in on the best senior travel insurance policy for you:

Shop around. It’s important to research and compare policies from multiple insurers before buying one since every insurer weighs risk factors differently. Consider the type of coverage and premiums of various plans.

Read the fine print. While it may be tempting to buy travel insurance as soon as you find a policy that meets your budget and needs, doing so can be risky. Take the time to understand the details so you can avoid hidden expenses and disappointments over exclusions in policies.

Check out reviews. Before you sign on the dotted line, read third-party reviews about the travel insurance company. Make sure it’s reputable and offers good customer service.

Time it right. Try to buy your travel insurance right after you book your trip. The sooner you invest in it, the better. The price may increase if you wait too close to the departure date. And many policies have a cutoff date on when they can be purchased.

Factors to consider when choosing travel insurance

Make sure to consider the below factors before purchasing a travel insurance policy.

Pre-existing medical conditions

If you have a pre-existing health condition like diabetes or arthritis, search for a travel insurance policy that covers it. Some plans come with a pre-existing condition waiver, which pays for medical bills tied to your condition during a trip. Without a waiver, your travel insurance company may exclude coverage for your condition. [2]

Duration of the trip

Travel insurance coverage will cost you more if you’re going on a two-month trip rather than a trip for only a few days or weeks. Single-trip insurance plans are ideal for one-off trips, but if you travel frequently throughout the year, an annual travel insurance plan may make more sense.

Destination

It’s important to consider whether your destination is domestic or international when buying a travel insurance policy. If you’re traveling to a different country instead of staying in the United States, robust health care coverage is essential. Medicare and most private medical insurance plans typically don't cover medical services outside the U.S.

Also, if you’re visiting a remote or high-risk destination, a travel insurance policy with high coverage amounts for emergency medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and medical costs is a must-have. Some robust plans offer emergency medical evacuation to the U.S.

How to buy travel insurance

Many travel insurance companies offer policies tailored to seniors. Travel insurance comparison sites, airlines, credit cards, travel agents, and travel reservation sites may also offer coverage. Policies can protect you from medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and trip interruption.

You should buy a travel insurance plan shortly after you book your flights, lodging, and activities. Be prepared to share basic information about your trip, such as the travelers’ names, destination, travel dates, non-refundable trip costs, and whether anyone in your party has a pre-existing condition.

Once you receive your policy, you’ll likely have a review period of 10 to 15 days to review the benefits, maximum limit, and the fine print, which explains exclusions. In most cases, you can cancel the policy for a full refund if you determine it’s not a good fit for your unique situation.

Keep Reading: How Much is Travel Insurance?

Senior travel insurance faqs.

Below are answers to a few commonly asked questions about travel insurance for seniors.

Do you need travel insurance if you have Medicare?

Medicare and most private health insurance plans don't offer coverage outside the U.S. Travel insurance can be a smart investment if you’re traveling to a different country and want medical coverage and evacuation coverage. [3]

Can you get travel insurance with a pre-existing condition?

It’s possible. You may be able to secure a travel insurance policy that covers your pre-existing medical condition, but you’ll likely have to add a pre-existing condition waiver.

Is travel insurance more expensive for seniors?

Usually, yes. Travel insurance typically comes with a higher cost for senior citizens because they present a higher risk for health-related issues than minors and younger adults.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . " Travel Insurance ."
• Travel Guard . " Pre-existing medical condition waiver ."
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services . " Medicare Coverage Outside the United States ."

Anna Baluch is a Cleveland-based personal finance and insurance expert. With an MBA from Roosevelt University, she enjoys writing educational content that helps people make smart financial decisions. Her work can be seen across the internet on many publications, including Freedom Debt Relief, Credit Karma, RateGenius, and the Balance. Connect with Anna on LinkedIn .

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Best Travel Insurance for Seniors: How to Find What’s Right for You

January 25, 2022 by Janice Waugh

Later this year, I will, as many of our readers already do, face the challenge of finding affordable travel insurance for seniors.

In my books, travel insurance has always been important. I have never traveled without it. As I age, I consider it even more important.

There are people who choose not to buy travel insurance. In essence, that means that they are self-insuring. Generally, I consider this to be penny-wise and pound foolish. I will get into the rare circumstance when not buying travel insurance does make sense below.

My purpose with this post is to simplify what can be a complicated purchase. While I can't change the rates or policies that travel insurance companies have for seniors, I can share with you some straightforward language to help you buy travel insurance according to your needs without overspending. 

If you are under 70 years of age (65 in Canada) please read  Going Alone? Travel Insurance is a Must .

If you're exploring travel insurance you're likely in trip planning mode. You may want to click here for your travel planning checklist .

One quick note. This article contains affiliate links which means that if you make a purchase we'll earn a small commission. This doesn't affect our analysis or your costs, but you will support Solo Traveler.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Reasons Seniors Need Travel Insurance

As you age, more health issues arise. It's a fact of life. This also means that there are more reasons for seniors to buy travel insurance.

Here are the most important reasons seniors need travel insurance:

• An unexpected health challenge causes a trip cancellation . Since seniors tend to have more health problems than younger travelers, it's not surprising that it is more common for seniors to encounter health-related issues that force them to cancel trips.
• Family responsibilities force a trip cancellation . Whether it's a partner, parent, or child, seniors are responsible to many family members. When something happens to a close relative, your trip might need to be cancelled. You can read about my experience with this in The Trip that Was Just Not Meant to Be.
• A medical emergency happens while you're traveling . Whether it's a fall, a temporary illness, or a new medical condition, many things can happen while traveling that require emergency medical attention. Read Travel Health Emergencies: Stories of Health Care Around the World .

The bonus of good travel insurance is that you will also be covered for medical evacuation, lost baggage, and possibly more.

Should I Buy Travel Insurance? Is Self-insuring a Good Option?

Trips and falls happen when we travel. On longer trips, it's likely that general health problems could arise as well. This is why it's worth purchasing a “bundled” travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, medical emergency, and evacuation coverage.

You do have the choice to self-insure. This is the option of not purchasing travel insurance and covering any expenses or losses that arise out of your own pocket.

Let's explore a few scenarios to understand the implications of travel insurance.

• Traveler details. My theoretical traveler is 70 years old and purchased a $6,000, two-week trip to France.
• Trip cancellation: $6,000
• Trip interruption: $9,000
• Medical evacuation: $500,000
• Emergency medical: $150,000
• Baggage loss: $1,500
• Flight accident: $75,000
• Accidental death: $25,000
• The traveler can't go due to illness . The trip cancellation insurance will refund all expenses that are not otherwise refundable by the travel companies.
• The trip is interrupted due to COVID-19 or another reason . The $9,000 coverage of this portion of the policy can be used for extra hotel nights, food, and flights. Should it be necessary to quarantine due to COVID-19, there is ample coverage for the costs.
• Sprained ankle . The total cost of seeing a doctor, purchasing an ankle brace and supplies is US$75 in France. I lived this myself . It's certainly not a huge risk.
• Broken leg . It's a simple break and does not require surgery. The cost of medical care in France would be approximately US$4,500. That's getting a bit pricey.
• Hip replacement surgery . I can't find a definitive price for this but in France it seems to be about US$25,000. This is definitely not the most expensive medical emergency you can face.

Given the above travel details, coverage, and scenarios, I'd say that you would self-insure only if you are wealthy. If you have the money, you can afford all costs out of pocket. You can also afford to pay for a translator to help you navigate the healthcare system and a last-minute flight to get you home or even an evacuation flight. You have the funds to take the risk.

However, if these expenses would affect your life at home and/or your chance for future travels, I believe it's better to have complete travel insurance. $340 seems like a small price to pay to protect your financial future.

Here are a few things that I've received compensation for thanks to travel insurance:

• replacement glasses when mine were lost in the UK: $300.
• the cost of repairing a crown that came off a tooth in Sydney: $272.
• a flight to Peru that I couldn’t take due to my mother’s ill health: $1,100.

Seniors with Pre-existing Conditions Can Get Travel Insurance

The term “pre-existing condition” is probably the most misunderstood aspect of travel insurance. Here's what you need to know.

• What is a pre-existing condition ? It is a medical issue that required you to seek treatment or consultation with a doctor or a change of prescription, whether the issue was diagnosed or not. Please note, that should a doctor reduce a prescribed medication because you are doing better, from a travel insurance perspective, this is a new pre-existing condition and is not stable.
• What is a stability period ? Insurers will usually cover your pre-existing condition if it is stable. The stability or “look-back” period is typically from 60 to 180 days. This is the number of days they look back to see if the pre-existing condition has been stable. If during the look-back period the pre-existing condition has been stable—i.e., there has been no change in prescription, no physician visits, etc.–as per the insurer’s definition, the pre-existing condition exclusion won’t apply.
• Are you covered for a pre-existing condition ? To know the answer to this question, look back six months to see how you have been treated for the condition. If there has been no change in treatment, symptoms, or tests, read the fine print and then contact the insurance company to clarify that you will be covered for your pre-existing condition. If you are not covered, you may be able to purchase a pre-existing condition waiver. Christopher Elliott explains the waiver here .
• Will you be covered for other medical emergencies? Unless your medical emergency is created or affected by your pre-existing condition, you will be covered for a medical emergency.

In the United States, the factors affecting pre-existing conditions are in the fine print. There is no medical questionnaire required before purchasing travel insurance so your attention is not brought to the matter. However, this does not mean that you are covered for pre-existing conditions. As always, read the fine print.

In Canada, there is typically a medical questionnaire. The information gathered will be used to identify your pre-existing conditions and determine what you are covered for and the cost of your insurance.

Why is this important? If you make a claim, the insurance company will look into the possibility of pre-existing conditions carefully and any found that relate to your claim could nullify your coverage.

Tips on Buying Travel Insurance for Seniors

Travel insurance is not an off-the-shelf purchase for seniors. Here are tips to help you get the right coverage at the right price.

• Shop around . Because the cost of travel insurance tends to get higher as you get older, it absolutely pays to do your research, particularly if you are relatively fit and healthy. Price comparison sites can be helpful for this. For Americans, we recommend travelinsurance.com for price and policy comparisons .
• Purchase travel insurance as soon as you put money down on a trip . If you need to cancel a trip before you buy travel insurance, you're out of luck.
• Ask for a deductible. Ask for quotes with different deductible options. A deductible is the portion of an expense that you will pay yourself. The higher the deductible, the lower the insurance cost.
• Consider an annual plan. If you travel frequently, an annual plan may save you money.
• Understand pre-existing conditions . If your pre-existing condition is stable according to the terms of your policy, you will typically be covered. If you are not, you can look into buying a pre-existing medical conditions waiver. It is available for some (but not all) conditions.
• Review your insurance before departure . It's possible that your health situation could change between the time you purchase your insurance and the time you leave for your trip. If anything has changed, review your coverage relating to pre-existing conditions.
• Be aware of age limits. Some policies may not cover travelers over a certain age for specific pre-existing medical conditions (for example, asthma may not be covered if you're over 60). However, travel insurance is available for all ages.
• Look at the individual policy limits . Different insurance providers offer different levels of coverage. You can lower the price of your premium by taking out a policy with a reduced amount of coverage. Be careful. Read the section titled “Should I Buy Travel Insurance” above.
• Consider additional coverage . Most travel insurers offer a range of optional add-ons, such as cruise-specific coverage, to help tailor your policy to your needs. However, don’t pay for things if you know you won’t need them.
• Get your questions answered . If you have questions about travel insurance for seniors, pick up the phone and get them answered clearly by either the insuring company or a licensed travel insurance broker. While travel agents, tour companies, and airlines can sell travel insurance, they are not allowed to give advice.

Specific Tips for Americans

• Pricing . In the US, travel insurance prices are determined by age and the cost of the trip. While there is no medical questionnaire to complete at the purchase point, in the claims process you will have to answer questions about pre-existing conditions. Read the fine print to know the definitions of pre-existing, look-back period, etc.
• Pre-existing conditions . No medical questionnaire is needed, however, pre-existing conditions are a factor when determining the payout of a claim. The fine print must be read to ensure that you have the coverage you want.
• Status of pre-existing conditions . Insurers have a look-back period, typically from 60 to 180 days, depending on the plan and provider. This is the number of days they look back to see if the pre-existing condition has been stable. If during the look-back period the pre-existing condition has been stable—i.e. no change in prescription, no physician visits, etc.  as per the insurer’s definition, the pre-existing condition exclusion won’t apply.
• At least $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses, including dental.
• $1,000,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.
• Medical staff available by phone 24/7 to help you get the care you need.
• Translation services should you be traveling in a country where you don't speak the language.

Specific Tips for Canadians

• Pricing . In Canada, the premium is determined by the traveler’s age, trip length, and responses to a medical questionnaire (when applicable).
• Medical coverage . In Canada, medical coverage is typically $5 million.
• Pre-existing conditions . In Canada, pre-existing conditions are identified in the medical questionnaire when travel insurance is purchased. The insured must inform the insurer if there are any health changes before departure.
• Status of pre-existing conditions . In Canada, insurers have a stability period where they are looking for no changes to the pre-existing condition. If you meet the stability period as determined by the insurer’s criteria in their definition of stable, your pre-existing condition is covered.
• Top-up insurance . If you have travel insurance through a group plan but are taking a trip longer than the plan covers, you can buy top-up insurance for the remaining portion of your trip.

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

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What Older Travelers Need to Know About Getting Travel Health Insurance

While most of us tend to feel younger than we are — and are likely to be healthier and more fit than our parents were at our age — there's no denying that it's prudent for older travelers to think about purchasing travel health insurance coverage before taking a trip, especially when venturing outside the US. The odds of getting sick or having to address a chronic medical issue while traveling increase as we age.

At age 65 and older, many US citizens are eligible for Medicare (read about the eligibility requirements here ). Medicare, however, does not cover health care services or supplies for recipients traveling outside the country, except in rare cases.

There are three ways Medicare-eligibles can get health coverage while traveling abroad. Some specific Medigap policies (Medicare supplement insurance) provide this type of coverage. Travelers need to assess the type of Medigap policy they have and the specific circumstances under which coverage is provided. There's also Medicare Advantage and other Medicare programs (as opposed to Original Medicare) that may provide such coverage. Again, travelers need to determine the specifics of the coverage offered by their plans. But if neither of the above applies, older travelers should consider purchasing a travel insurance policy that provides health coverage.

We asked Stan Sandberg, co-founder of the travel insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com , some health insurance questions that commonly arise for older travelers. This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Related: Is Credit Card Travel Insurance Sufficient?

In general, how does age affect the cost of travel insurance?

Stan Sandberg: Similar to other actuarial-based insurance products, the older you are, the more costly your insurance will be. This is true both for medical-only plans and for trip cancellation insurance. The good news is that the travel health insurance cost increases related to age aren't as great as you might expect — especially if you are healthy with no pre-existing conditions.

A sample of 23 products we offer on TravelInsurance.com shows an average price increase of just under $85 for an 85-year-old versus an 80-year-old. For healthy buyers the same ages without a pre-existing condition , the increase is less than $35. And based on a $2,000 trip (looking across the same 23 products), the average premium for a comprehensive travel insurance plan, including trip cancellation coverage, is $109.25 for a 50-year-old; $140.90 for a 60-year-old; and $183.99 for a 70-year-old. So the increase is about 30% from ages 50 to 60, and about 30% from ages 60 to 70.

Do all, or some, policies have age limits?

Some policies, in particular travel medical policies, have an age limit. But for most trip cancellation policies, travelers won't start seeing fewer plans until they celebrate their 101st birthday!

What is the difference between annual travel insurance policies and single trip insurance for older travelers?

Annual plans cover multiple trips taken during a one-year period. Irrespective of age, however, the coverage limits of annual plans are cumulative, so a traveler could theoretically exhaust the benefits with a single claim on a first trip. Since seniors often have more time to travel, annual plans can be attractive to those who travel more than four times a year. But potential purchasers should carefully compare the costs and coverage of an annual plan with those offered as Medicare supplements.

What about obtaining insurance when you have pre-existing medical conditions? Is there any way around such exclusions?

Most policies exclude losses that stem from a pre-existing condition. (A pre-existing condition is defined as any prior injury, illness, disease or other type of medical condition for which a person sought care in the six to 12 month period prior to the effective date of the policy.) However, some policies offer a "pre-existing condition exclusion waiver" that allows coverage of pre-existing conditions. To qualify, purchasers must meet certain requirements. These typically include:

• Purchasing the travel insurance policy within a defined time period (usually seven to 21 days from when the initial payment for the trip was made. )
• Travelers need to insure 100% of their pre-paid and nonrefundable trip costs.

We recommend that travelers speak to a licensed agent and read the fine print before purchasing a policy with an exclusion waiver.

What do travelers who do a lot of cruising need to know about travel health insurance?

Most travel insurance plan benefits apply to cruisers and non-cruisers alike, but some plans will have certain benefits [like] returning to land for medical evacuation that are designed specifically for cruisers.

What additional protections does trip cancellation and interruption insurance offer?

Although it adds to the cost, this option can cover the reimbursement of trip costs due to a range of unexpected circumstances — from last-minute illnesses to severe weather and natural disasters.

A Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade offers the most flexibility, reimbursing up to 75% of total trip costs for a cancellation of any reason up to 48 hours prior to trip departure. This benefit also has to be purchased within seven to 21 days of the initial trip payment and 100% of pre-paid and nonrefundable trip costs need to be insured.

What is medical evacuation insurance? What does it cover?

Generally speaking, emergency medical evacuation coverage will pay for transportation to the nearest hospital or medical facility that can treat you if one is not available at your location.

The coverage may also cover Medical Repatriation or the cost of transportation back to the US when your condition improves and you're cleared to travel home. Policies may also include coverage for transporting children home if you are hospitalized for an extended period. Or if you're traveling alone, the coverage may pay to bring someone to your bedside if you have an extended hospital stay.

In the event of a death during a trip, some plans may also include Return of Remains coverage that would cover the cost of bringing back the deceased.

What are some other caveats to keep in mind when pricing travel health insurance?

Pricing can vary somewhat between states, so the state where you reside may affect pricing. And remember, even if you have coverage from a Medigap plan, it can have deductibles, lifetime coverage limits up to $50,000 and limitations on trip length.

If you are traveling in a group, you might ask the sponsor about the availability of group travel insurance. Group plans are designed for easy administration by a group leader, who manages member sign-ups and changes — and the pricing for group plans doesn't change based on a traveler's age.

Thus, for senior travelers, group policies may be more cost-effective compared to nongroup, individual policies. However, individual policies can have higher coverage limits and more options available if travelers want to tailor their coverage.

Related: The Best Credit Cards With Travel Protections

Bottom Line

Buying travel health insurance is complicated under any circumstances because it's difficult to compare products (policies) from different insurers and wade through the fine print. But for older travelers — for whom the costs of insurance tends to be higher and the purchasing options fewer — these decisions can be daunting.

Of course, travelers always need to first understand the benefits and limitations of the health insurance policies they currently have in place (think: Medicare and private health insurance) to determine what additional coverage is necessary to protect their health as well as the financial investment in a trip.

Third-party insurance sites — like TravelInsurance.com , Squaremouth.com and InsureMyTrip.com — can help consumers compare the provisions and costs of different policies and, hopefully, avoid potential landmines.

Comparison sites like these offer consumers the ability to chat online, speak to agents by phone, and/or correspond by email after hours to help answer specific policy questions. In addition, the sites can help connect travelers with insurance providers in the unlikely event of the need to file a claim.

Feature photo by Hero Images / Getty Images.

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How to Compare Senior Travel Insurance Programs

You may have read that travel insurance isn’t worth the cost. This might be true for younger travelers, but for people our age, senior travel insurance can provide peace of mind and assistance when we need it most. Let’s take a closer look at senior travel insurance coverage and the best ways to compare policies.

So, what kind of senior travel insurance do you need? Here are a few options to consider…

Travel Medical Senior Travel Insurance

Travel medical insurance covers treatment for illness or injury during your trip. You should definitely consider buying travel medical insurance if you are a US citizen insured by Medicare who plans to travel abroad, because Medicare only pays for medical treatment received in the United States and its possessions.

If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and plan to visit countries outside the European Economic Area, you should also consider purchasing a travel medical insurance policy. Travel medical insurance policies are usually secondary, which means they pay after your own insurance policy has processed and paid your claim.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Your travel medical insurance may or may not cover pre-existing conditions. Try to find a policy that does offer this coverage, because you will save yourself a great deal of time and paperwork if you do need to file a claim. Typically, to get pre-existing conditions coverage you need to buy your travel medical insurance policy within two weeks of paying your initial trip deposit.

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Medical evacuation coverage pays to bring you to the nearest hospital or to your own hospital at home, depending on the policy you choose. Repatriation coverage pays for your remains to be returned home if you should die during your trip.

Trip Cancellation

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you must cancel your trip for specific reasons, such as illness or natural disaster, which are named in your policy.

You must cancel your trip within a certain time frame, usually 48 or 72 hours before your scheduled departure, and submit documentation of the covered cancellation reason to your travel insurance provider.

Trip delay coverage pays for incidental expenses, such as hotel rooms and meals, if you are delayed during your trip for a specified amount of time.

Trip Interruption

Trip interruption coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you must return home before your trip ends. This type of coverage is usually subject to many exclusions, so you will need to read the policy carefully before you buy.

Baggage and Personal Items Loss

Baggage and personal items loss coverage reimburses you if your luggage is lost or stolen during your trip. Most baggage loss policies have many exclusions, documentation requirements and per-item coverage limits. Take a look at your credit card agreements and homeowner’s or renter’s policy; you may already be covered for loss of your luggage and personal items.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance reimburses you a certain percentage, usually 65 to 75 percent, of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you cancel your trip within the required time frame, which is typically 48 to 72 hours before your trip begins. This coverage is useful if you are concerned about situations at home or at your destination and those events would not be covered by a trip cancellation policy. You must buy CFAR coverage within a week or two of making your first trip deposit.

Other Coverage Types

You can also buy travel insurance that covers a wide variety of situations, such as rental car collision damage, pet care, adventure travel and accidental death. Be aware that some travel insurance providers will not cover people over age 75.

Tip: Your credit card may include rental car collision damage coverage in most countries; read your card agreement before you buy additional insurance.

Single-Trip Policies

Most travelers choose a policy that covers one trip. Single-trip travel insurance policies are priced according to your age, the types of coverage you want, the cost and duration of your trip and the places you plan to visit.

Annual Policies

Frequent travelers may be able to save money by purchasing an annual travel insurance policy. You can also buy a separate annual medical evacuation policy if you travel abroad regularly, but do not need any other type of coverage.

Here are a few of the best ways to compare senior travel insurance policies…

Compare Costs and Benefits Online

The easiest and fastest way to compare senior travel insurance policies is to do an online search for the coverage you need and compare benefits, prices and exclusions. There are several websites you can use to do this, including Squaremouth.com , InsureMyTrip.com , TripInsuranceStore.com , MoneySupermarket.com , GoCompare.com , Travelinsurance.co.uk and Healthquotes.ca .

If you have pre-existing conditions that other travel insurance providers won’t cover, consider getting a quote from Staysure.co.uk . Staysure will also insure travelers who are over age 80 or who have serious health conditions, such as cancer or lupus. MedJetAssist offers medical evacuation coverage for travelers from the US, Mexico and Canada.

You will be asked to enter some information about yourself and your upcoming trip. You can select the coverage you need as part of this process; the search results will include only policies that include all of your choices.

Read the Whole Policy Before You Buy

Every senior travel insurance policy is different. Take the time to read each policy before you make your final choice. Pay attention to the exclusions and covered reasons, particularly if you have ongoing health issues, are planning to participate in adventure sports or think you might want the option to cancel your trip.

The least expensive policy might not offer the coverage you really need, and the most expensive policy may not provide the greatest amount of coverage.

Buy Travel Insurance at the Right Time

As you plan your trip, consider your travel insurance needs. You will need to buy a policy within a week or two of making your first trip deposit if you want coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, cancellations due to named storms or natural events (volcanic ash events, for example) or cancel for any reason coverage.

Tip: You can change your coverage amounts later on if the cost of your trip goes up, but you will not be able to get certain types of travel insurance if you wait too long.

Weigh Costs and Benefits

Once you have a list of policies and prices, it’s time to decide whether the policy benefits outweigh the cost. Unless your health insurance covers treatment in all places under all conditions, travel medical insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage is probably worth buying.

If you are going on a cruise or tour and your contract indicates that your trip costs are nonrefundable after a certain date, trip cancellation insurance can help you recoup your costs. Trip cancellation coverage can also be useful if you have purchased nonrefundable airline tickets.

Apply this analysis to each type of coverage. Ask yourself what you have paid, how much you will lose if you cannot go on the trip, and whether you can afford to lose that much or pay for additional services, such as medical evacuation, if problems arise.

Have you bought senior travel insurance and filed a claim? What was the process like? Please join the discussion.

Watch my interview with senior travel expert, Nancy Parode on the topic of finding the best senior travel insurance.

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Best Travel Insurance for Seniors – Plans & Cost

Home | Travel | Best Travel Insurance for Seniors – Plans & Cost

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

Travel insurance for seniors is a must-have if you’re doing any traveling as a senior citizen. After all, you’re probably planning more international adventures than ever now that you have the financial resources and free time. Whether you’ll be traveling with a tour group, going on a cruise, or embarking on a solo adventure, you still need to make sure that you’re covered by senior travel insurance when you go abroad.

Best Travel Insurance for Seniors – Plans & Cost

Getting coverage for pre-existing conditions is especially important at this age. If you have any kind of long-term health condition, be sure to purchase travel insurance for pre-existing conditions because, unfortunately, not every travel insurance offers this type of coverage.

Fortunately, however, all four of the best senior travel insurance plans I’ll be discussing below include pre-existing condition coverage. I’ll also explain coverage and age limits, deductibles, and extra features, including cruise coverage, so you can select the travel insurance for seniors that best suits your needs and budget.

Best travel insurance companies for seniors

In summary, these are the companies that offer the best senior travel insurance plans :

• Trawick International , the best travel insurance for seniors
• IMG , an inexpensive travel medical insurance for seniors
• AIG Travel Guard , a good basic travel insurance for seniors
• World Trips , a great travel insurance for the elderly

How much does travel insurance cost for seniors?

The price of senior travel insurance is based on a number of factors, including your age, nationality, and destination. The length and cost of your trip will also affect your senior travel insurance price.

Moreover, each company that offers travel insurance for seniors determines prices differently, so some may be more inherently expensive than others. I’ve used the example of a 70-year-old American from Pennsylvania who is going to Mexico for a week and whose trip costs $2,500 in order to generate quotes.

*choice of maximum amounts of coverage and this is the highest option with a $0 deductible

** cost used for example

1. Trawick International , the best travel insurance for seniors

If you want senior travel insurance with quality coverage for a relatively affordable price, look no further than Trawick International . Out of all the plans I compared, Trawick’s Safe Travels First Class plan offers the highest amount of coverage in all categories. Even better, it also includes cruise coverage and pre-existing condition coverage (as long as the plan is purchased within 14 days of your initial trip deposit).

Other perks of this travel insurance for seniors include COVID-19 coverage and a $0 deductible for medical expenses. You can even add CFAR coverage, otherwise known as cancel for any reason coverage  if you’d like to be able to cancel your trip for any reason that would otherwise not be covered by your insurance.

With a maximum age limit of 100 for customer coverage, the Safe Travels First Class plan is suitable for just about any senior who wants foreign travel insurance for senior citizens . However, if you’d like to save a little money, IMG may be a better choice for you, particularly if you only need travel medical insurance for seniors .

2. IMG , an inexpensive travel medical insurance for seniors

Another top-rated travel insurance for seniors is IMG ’s GlobeHopper Senior Single-Trip plan. This affordable travel medical insurance for seniors gives you the flexibility of choosing your deductible (the amount of money you have to pay before insurance will cover your medical bills) and maximum amount of coverage, so you can customize the plan to fit your needs and budget.

Seniors of any age can choose from deductibles of $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, or $2,500. 65- to 79-year-olds can opt for maximum coverage amounts of $50,000, $100,00, $500,000, or $1,000,000, while seniors who are 80+ can only choose between $50,000 and $100,000 worth of coverage. Generally, the higher the deductible you select, the more affordable your senior travel insurance price will be, whereas the higher the coverage amount you choose, the more expensive your travel insurance will be.

Just keep in mind that certain amounts of coverage automatically come with a deductible (for example, with $1,000,000 worth of coverage, you must have a deductible of at least $250). Additionally, you can only select a $0 deductible for plans with $50,000 or $100,000 worth of coverage.

Beyond providing flexible deductible and coverage options, the GlobeHopper Senior Single-Trip plan also offers cruise, COVID-19, and pre-existing condition coverage. However, because this plan is travel medical insurance , trip cancellation coverage is not included. This isn’t a problem if you just need travel medical coverage, but if you’d like the added security of knowing you can get reimbursed for canceling your trip, go for Trawick ’s senior travel insurance .

3. AIG Travel Guard , a good basic travel insurance for seniors

AIG Travel Guard ’s Essential plan is perfect for any retiree looking for reliable travel insurance for seniors over 65 . This plan not only provides a decent amount of coverage in all categories, but it also features a $0 deductible for medical expenses.

Moreover, the Essential plan includes COVID-19, pre-existing conditions, and cruise coverage.  Best of all, travelers of any age can purchase this plan, since customers aged 100 and over are covered.

Even with all of these benefits, you can, in fact, get senior travel insurance with a higher amount of coverage for a more affordable price with Trawick . As such, I would only recommend purchasing travel insurance for seniors from AIG if you are over the age of 100 since Trawick only covers customers up to age 100.

4. World Trips , a great travel insurance for the elderly

Travel insurance isn’t just for international travel. World Trips offers both great domestic travel insurance and international travel insurance for seniors . Their Atlas Journey Economy plan includes good coverage in all categories, a $0 deductible, and COVID-19 coverage.

Furthermore, the plan also provides cruise coverage and coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as the plan is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip payment. Even better, travelers of any age can purchase this senior travel insurance plan.

However, World Trips’ Atlas Journey Economy plan is the most expensive of the four I compared, so if you want to save money and get even better medical expense coverage, Trawick and IMG are better options.

What is the best travel insurance for seniors?

Ultimately, the best travel insurance for seniors is the plan that fits your needs, budget, and travel itinerary. Generally speaking, however, Trawick International offers the best all-around senior travel insurance plan , since it offers good value for money while still being affordable.

On the other hand, if you want affordable travel medical insurance for seniors , IMG is your best bet. No matter what plan you select, be sure to purchase at least some kind of senior travel insurance coverage before your trip. After all, having travel insurance is almost always worth it .

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Senior Travel Insurance (over 65)

Travel can be a risky venture for those over 65, over 70, and even over 75, because they are slightly more fragile than your average healthy 20-year-old. Seniors with medical conditions – and even those with no health conditions – need the right senior travel insurance coverage to protect them from financial losses.

What are the risks for travelers over 65?

Some of the things that can go wrong for senior travelers include the following:

• A pre-existing condition reoccurs – simply by living longer, you are more likely to have a pre-existing medical condition. Should your condition reoccur while you are traveling, your medical coverage will be invalid unless you have informed the travel insurance company of the condition and purchased the pre-existing condition waiver.
• You experience a medical emergency – travel involves all kinds of new experiences: strange foods, foreign climates, and different surroundings. If you get ill or are injured on your trip, how will you arrange for emergency medical transportation in an unfamiliar region?
• Your tour is canceled – travel suppliers – including cruises, tours, and rentals – may have financial problems you don’t know about ahead of time. If they cease operations, how will you recover the money you paid them?
• You have to be evacuated – medical evacuations are highly expensive. If you are traveling in a region where the local medical facilities cannot adequately treat your condition, how will you arrange and pay for an emergency evacuation to a qualified medical hospital? After you are treated, how will you then get back home?
• Your luggage is stolen – thieves are highly resourceful and can steal luggage right out from under your nose. If you have important items – even those medications packed in your carry-on bag – how will you replace them and continue your trip?
• You need help or advice – anytime you are traveling in a new place, you could be in a situation where you need travel advice or emergency assistance. You may even need help communicating in a foreign language. If you need travel advice, legal advice, or foreign language assistance, who can you call?

Can a 75 year old get travel insurance?

Yes, you absolutely can! 75 is the new 55, haven’t you heard?

Travel at any age is more enjoyable when you know there’s a solid safety net in place in case anything goes wrong. Whether you’re planning a short visit to see old friends or new grandkids, you can buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your trip investment at any age.

If you’re planning a lot of trips domestic and/or abroad, purchasing an annual travel insurance plan can extend the same benefits all year long. The flexibility and security of an annual plan is that you only have to make the purchase decisions once and you’ll save some money too .

What coverage do you need as a senior traveler?

While the following is not an exhaustive list of all the coverages available with travel insurance plans , it describes those that are most useful to senior travelers.

• Medical coverage provides for emergency medical and dental care in the case of a sudden illness or injury on your trip. (Review the details of medical/dental coverage .)
• Pre-existing medical condition coverage provides protection against high medical costs that result from a recurring condition. (Review the details of pre-existing condition coverage .)
• Evacuation coverage arranges and pays for medically necessary evacuations or for the repatriation of a traveler’s remains. This coverage can also help a patient get home after they have been treated. (Review the details for evacuation and repatriation coverage .)
• Baggage coverage provides replacement value for items that are lost, stolen, or destroyed on your trip, including the bag itself. (Review the details for baggage coverage .)
• Financial default coverage provides reimbursement for payments made to a travel supplier that completely ceases operations due to financial default or bankruptcy. (Review the details of financial default coverage .)

What is the maximum age for travel insurance?

Whether you’re cruiser or a museumgoer, the freedom to travel is one of the best things reaching this age group. You have the schedule flexibility and time to do it all, and it’s just not worth risking your financial status or your life to travel uninsured – especially if you’re traveling internationally.

Don’t assume that travel insurance is out of reach at any age. You can find affordable travel insurance as a senior at 70 and 80!

Why is travel insurance so expensive for senior travelers?

It’s the reality of things, unfortunately. Just as with any type of insurance, the price is calculated based on risk. Because senior travelers, as a group (not individually), are at a higher risk of having health issues, the cost of travel insurance rises with age.

But don’t be discouraged!

It is possible to find affordable travel insurance as a senior traveler.

Even if you’re an experienced traveler and in excellent shape, you never know what can happen. Travel insurance, like all other insurance plans, is designed to protect you from the unexpected. The events that can happen that no one could predict. It’s not just about your health either. With a good travel insurance plan, you’re protected from things that can happen that are entirely unrelated to your health, like tornadoes and terrorist attacks, for example.

5 Tips for Buying Travel Insurance over 65

The important thing to remember when buying travel insurance at any age is to assess your risk. Don’t think that travel insurance is out of your reach. Here’s how to buy travel insurance if you’re over 65:

• Think about your risks. Do you have a pre-existing health condition? Are you prone to any types of health issues? Are you spending a lot of money on this trip?
• Get a quote . The best thing about using a comparison tool like ours is that you can quickly and easily filter in or out the concerns you have and manage how much you’re spending on the travel insurance plan.
• If you’re not worried about losing your pre-paid expenses (maybe you’re getting the flight with miles and staying with friends, for example), then your focus is on covering emergency medical benefits and evacuation/repatriation costs.
• If the plans look expensive, take a second look at the amount of emergency medical and evacuation. You’ll need a good amount at a minimum (remember, Medicare doesn’t cover you outside the US) but at the same time, you may not need multi-millions in coverage. Adjust those filters a little and see what that saves you.
• Final tip : If you’re planning not one, but several trips, one of the best-kept secrets of saving on travel insurance is buying annual travel insurance . Just like when you add auto insurance to your home insurance plan, you save money on both. Annual travel insurance works similarly.

See how much travel medical and evacuation is enough to determine what coverage you need.

When should you buy your senior travel insurance?

Timing your travel insurance purchase is just as important as why you purchase it.

• When should I buy my travel insurance?
• What is the buying process?
• How much does travel insurance cost?
• What information do I need to buy it?

Remember that all travel insurance companies offer a free look period with a refund if you decide the plan is not what you need.

Where should you buy your senior travel insurance?

We recommend purchasing your travel insurance directly from a third-party company for a number of reasons.

• Buying Travel Insurance from a 3rd party company vs. through a travel agent
• Why buying Travel Insurance from a 3rd party company is better than buying from a Cruise Line
• Buying Travel Insurance Directly from the Company vs. Using a Comparison Site

Very briefly, you’ll have more choices and options in your travel insurance plan if you purchase from a third-party company using a comparison tool .

How can you be sure your travel insurance coverage is adequate?

These tips will help you determine whether you have enough coverage.

• 4 Steps to 100% confidence in your travel insurance plan
• Entering $0 Trip Cost is too risky
• Is ‘Cancel for any reason’ worth it?

Related topics

• 10 Tips for Seniors Traveling with Health Concerns
• Saving money with an annual travel insurance plan – ideal for senior citizens who travel a lot
• A safe cruise checklist for seniors , families, and couples

Damian Tysdal is the founder of CoverTrip, and is a licensed agent for travel insurance (MA 1883287). He believes travel insurance should be easier to understand, and started the first travel insurance blog in 2006.

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Best Insurance for Older Travelers

To ensure you have enjoyable and safe travels, we suggest choosing the best travel insurance for seniors with international coverage. To make your selection more manageable, we will help you identify just what type of seniors international insurance you will need and how to purchase it.

As you reach the golden years of your life, travel should become more frequent, not the other way around. When you retire, you will have the time you have always dreamed of completing your bucket list. We recommend traveling as much as you can while you are able.

To ensure you have enjoyable and safe travels, we suggest choosing the best plans with international coverage. To make your selection more manageable, we will help you identify what type of international insurance you will need and how to purchase it.

What Coverage Do I Need as a Senior Traveler?

Because you are already in your senior years, you must get a check-up and review your health before purchasing travel medical insurance for seniors . To know what kind of senior travel insurance you will need, you should check your current health conditions, activities you will be participating in during the trip, and the travel duration.

Some countries have reciprocal healthcare arrangements with other nations. They may be more expensive, though, depending on the country. Generally, Medicare or other health plans do not cover emergency health care, so you need travel insurance to acquire similar benefits. It would help if you considered all of these points when shopping for senior travel insurance.

Read: Travel Medical Insurance Overview

What Are the Best Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors

Through research and experience, we have compared senior travel insurance plans that work best for seniors traveling abroad.

Blue Cross Travel Insurance:  An excellent option for U.S. Citizens - Learn More | Free Quote / Buy

Trawick Safe Travels USA: A great choice for visitors to the U.S. - Learn More | Free Quote / Buy

IMG Patriot Platinum : The best plan for internationals - Learn More | Free Quote / Buy

Through research and experience, we have compared plans that work best for more mature individuals traveling abroad. We have categorized the options based on age, citizenship, and budget to make it easier to decide which is the best travel insurance for seniors like you.

Senior Travel Insurance Plan Daily Rates

Rates were last updated on March 18, 2024

Do you need comprehensive coverage for living abroad? Read: Medical Insurance for Seniors Retiring Abroad .

Travel Insurance for U.S. Citizens Over 65-Years-Old

We recommend the GeoBlue Voyager  plan from Blue Cross Travel Insurance. It offers excellent service to seniors, and the maximum limit of the plan is $1,000,000.

Usually, insurers limit the maximum benefit amount to $10,000 or $50,000 for 65 years old and older travel insurance plans. The GeoBlue plan does better by providing an overall higher coverage limit for travelers 65-80+.

Best Travel Insurance for U.S. Seniors with Pre-Existing Conditions

GeoBlue Travel Insurance is also the best option for U.S. citizens seeking medical services and medical evacuation coverage for pre-existing conditions. The GeoBlue Voyager Choice plan provides coverage for pre-existing conditions to U.S. seniors who currently have a U.S. health plan, including Medicare.

This plan is a little more expensive but well worth the cost, considering the additional coverage and their excellent service.

GeoBlue Voyager Plan

• For U.S. citizens up to age 95
• Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
• 24/7/365 service and assistance

Budget Friendly Travel Insurance for U.S. Seniors

GlobeHopper from IMG offers senior travelers excellent benefits and services at an affordable price. U.S. seniors are eligible if they are 65 years or older and actively enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and in a Medigap Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan.

It is ideal for seniors traveling abroad on a holiday or vacation and needing coverage for potential medical expenses incurred outside the U.S.

This senior travel insurance plan includes the following benefits:

• Non-Emergency Medical Evacuation
• Felonious Battery (where the client is the victim)
• Inter-Facility Transportation
• Limited to U.S. citizens currently enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B

For pricing and coverage: Request a GlobeHopper quote

Travel Insurance for Older Visitors to the U.S.

If your plans include a visit to the USA, you will want to ensure your insurance plan will cover the high costs of medical care in the USA. As high-quality medical care is available throughout the country, medical evacuation benefits may not be as high a priority. Below are two recommended plans for seniors traveling to the USA.

For visitors to the U.S. who are 65 years or older, we recommend the Trawick Safe Travels USA Comprehensive insurance plan. A maximum limit of $100,000 is available to senior visitors who are 65-79 years of age. Visitors to the U.S. who are 80 years and older are eligible for a plan with a maximum limit of $50,000.

Acute onset of pre-existing conditions is included in the Trawick Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan. Benefits are payable up to the maximum policy limit purchased.

Request a Quote for Trawick Safe Travels USA

We also recommend the Atlas Travel Medical plan to non-U.S. senior travelers visiting the U.S. It is affordable and offers excellent service to seniors with maximum medical benefit amounts of $50,000 or $100,000 for ages 65-79 and $10,000 if you are 80 or older.

• Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
• Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
• Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
• 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Travel Insurance for Seniors 65-80+ for Travel Excluding the U.S.

For those of you traveling outside of the US , plans are typically more affordable as healthcare costs outside of the US are less expensive. At the same time, you have other considerations, as some countries have a lower standard of care or are more remote. In those cases, you would want to ensure you have access to the best doctors and hospitals, medical evacuation services, and other related benefits.

Again, for US seniors traveling abroad, the GeoBlue Travel Insurance plan is a great option. It will provide medical services, medical evacuation, repatriation, and coverage for pre-existing conditions. This plan is a little more expensive but well worth the cost, considering the additional coverage and their excellent service.

The IMG Patriot Platinum International plan is a great option for seniors seeking medical coverage while traveling outside of their home country but will not be in the US. IMG Patriot Platinum International does not provide coverage inside the U.S.

Patriot Platinum offers a policy maximum of $2,000,00 to seniors up to age 69, $100,000 to seniors 70-79, and $20,000 to seniors 80 and older.

Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance

• Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
• IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
• Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest

Travel Insurance for Over 70 Years Old

For seniors aged 70 or older, there are additional considerations when buying travel insurance plans. Personally, you may have different priorities that you are looking for in your coverage. For plan benefits and costs, you will find increasing limits on the coverage benefits (lower medical benefits per trip) and increasing costs. Please review the table above for specific costs estimates and coverage limits.

Best Travel Insurance for Seniors Aged 70+

For US Citizens Traveling Abroad

For Travel to the USA or Globally

Benefits of Overseas Travel Medical Insurance for Seniors

As a senior traveling overseas, you may already have some health issues or medication you must monitor daily. If you have travel insurance and get injured or sick while on vacation, your senior travel insurance will cover your medical needs.

Please note that Medicare does not cover healthcare services outside the U.S. and its territories . There may be exceptions to this regarding Medicare benefits in Canada and Mexico, but only in certain circumstances.

Overseas Medical Insurance can guarantee coverage for any sudden injuries or accidents, and it can also ensure compensation if you need to interrupt your trip.

A note from the CDC : "Many health plans, including Medicare , will not pay for services received outside the United States. Also, consider purchasing  medical evacuation insurance , which will pay for emergency transportation to a hospital."

Travel Insurance Options for Seniors

Senior travel insurance will provide you with the security and comfort to enjoy your trip. Below are our insurance plan recommendations for travelers over 70 years old, including trip cancellation benefits, coverage for cruises, and international trips.

Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for Seniors Going Abroad

Trip cancellation coverage provides the same great coverage found in a senior travel insurance plan, along with the additional benefit of covering your travel costs should you have to cancel your trip.

Trip Insurance Plan for U.S. Seniors Traveling Abroad

Seven Corners Trip Protection Insurance

• Comprehensive trip protection for U.S. residents traveling abroad.
• Optional rental car collision coverage available.
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage available (if eligible).

Travel Medical Insurance for Seniors

Coverage with travel insurance if you are over 65.

Many of our clients ask us: "What is the best travel insurance for seniors?" and "What benefits are included in a senior travel insurance plan?" People often have different priorities, so we are happy to provide a variety of options.

Frequently, trip cancellation is a priority, while others are more concerned with medical evacuation or repatriation benefits. The good news is you can have them all in one plan. None of these benefits individually add high costs to your plan, so trying to get one or the other to save a little money is not always the best option.

We advise clients to get a quality plan with comprehensive coverage for all bases. To help you choose the best travel insurance for seniors, make sure the following benefits are in your policy:

• Emergency Evacuation
• Repatriation of Remains
• Hospital Room and Board
• Ambulance Services
• Trip Interruptions or Delays
• Loss of baggage or personal items
• Accidental Death Coverage

Related: Staying Healthy While Traveling as a Retiree

How to Compare and Buy the Right Plan

Most travel insurance companies provide basic – and sometimes limited – plans for seniors, with some simply covering them under their regular plans. Before applying for senior travel insurance, check which age bracket you fall under for specific plans. Age is a significant factor in determining premiums and benefits.

Next, you will need to confirm that your travel insurance plan covers the countries where you will be traveling. Some plans may only provide coverage in select countries.

Another thing to remember when buying senior traveler insurance is the maximums and deductibles of the plan. Some travel insurance companies offer reduced maximums or higher deductibles, depending on your health condition. The higher the risk that you will claim coverage, the more expensive the insurance plan will be.

There are three basic types of travel insurance that you need to know: emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation insurance, and 24-hour telephone assistance. Know the difference between each one to identify which is the best fit for your needs. Focus on the fine print and check the exceptions, exclusions, and free-look period of the policy.

We recommend that you compare the best travel insurance for seniors listed here and review the plans. It is advisable to get a free quote from us using the links above.

Make sure you compare possible plans side-by-side to get the best deal suited to your needs. Buying senior travel insurance can be time-consuming, but it does not have to be stressful. If you have questions that need clarifications, you can contact us, and we will be happy to guide you.

Our Recommended Travel Insurance Plans for Older Travelers

Atlas Travel Medical : Great for International / Non-U.S. Citizens - Learn More | Free Quote / Apply

Globe Hopper Senior Plan: Affordable plan for U.S. Citizens on Medicare A&B - Learn More | Free Quote

Author: Joe Cronin , Founder and President of International Citizens Insurance . Mr. Cronin, a former expat, is an authority in the areas of international travel, and global health, life, and travel insurance, with expertise in advising individuals and groups on benefits for today's global workforce. Follow him on LinkedIn or Twitter .

Get a fast, free, international insurance quote.

Global medical plans, specialty coverage, company info, customer service.

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

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of April 2024

According to our analysis of more than 50 travel insurance companies and hundreds of different travel insurance plans, the best travel insurance company is Travelex Insurance Services. In our best travel insurance ratings, we take into account traveler reviews, credit ratings and industry awards. The best travel insurance companies offer robust coverage and excellent customer service, and many offer customizable add-ons.

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

HTH Travel Insurance »

Tin Leg »

AIG Travel Guard »

Nationwide Insurance »

Seven Corners »

Generali Global Assistance »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can help you protect the financial investment you made in your vacation when unexpected issues arise. Find the best travel insurance for the type of trip(s) you're taking and the coverages that matter most to you – from interruptions and misplaced belongings to illness and injury.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Overall
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Trip Interruptions
• HTH Travel Insurance: Best for Groups
• Tin Leg: Best Cost
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Families
• Nationwide Insurance: Best for Last-Minute Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners: Best for 24/7 Support When Traveling
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best for Specialized Coverage

Customizable upgrades are available, including car rental coverage, additional medical insurance and adventure sports coverage

Medical and trip cancellation maximum are not as high as some other companies

• 100% of the insured trip cost for trip cancellation; 150% for trip interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost, damaged or stolen bags and personal items; $200 for luggage delays
• $750 in missed connection coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Annual and multitrip policies are available

Distinguishing between the company's 10 travel insurance plans can be challenging

• Up to $200,000 in trip cancellation coverage; $300,000 in trip interruption coverage
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen luggage and personal effects; $600 for bag delays
• Up to $1,600 for travel delays
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $75,000
• Epidemic coverage

Generous coverage at the mid- and high-tier levels, and great group discounts

Preexisting conditions coverage is only available at mid- and high-tier plans

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to $50,000); 200% trip interruption coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $400 in baggage delay coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for trip delays; $1,000 for missed connections
• $500,000 in coverage per person for sickness and accidents

Variety of plans to choose from, including two budget-friendly policies and several more premium options

More limited coverage for baggage issues than other companies

• 100% trip cancellation protection; 150% trip interruption
• $500 per person for lost, stolen or damaged baggage and personal items
• Up to $2,000 per person in travel delay coverage ($150 per day); $100 per person for missed connections
• $100,000 per person in emergency medical coverage, including issues related to COVID-19

Travel insurance policy coverage is tailored to your specific trip

Information about policy coverage inclusions is not readily available without first obtaining a quote

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of your trip's cost; trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Up to $2,500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged baggage; $500 related to luggage delays
• Up to $1,000 in missed connection and trip delay coverage
• $100,000 in emergency medical coverage

Variety of plans to choose from and coverage available up to a day before you leave on your trip

Limited trip cancellation coverage even at the highest tier

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000; trip interruption coverage worth up to 200% of the trip cost (maximum of $60,000)
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage; $600 for baggage delays
• Up to $2,000 for trip delays; missed connection and itinerary change coverage of $500 each
• $150,000 for emergency medical and dental issues

Customer service available 24/7 via text, Whatsapp, email and phone

Cancel for any reason coverage costs extra

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to between $30,000 and $100,000 depending on your state of residence); interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost 
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $2,500; up to $600 for luggage delays
• Trip delay and missed connection coverage worth up to $1,500
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to between $250,000 and $500,000 (depending on where you live)

Generous emergency medical and emergency evacuation coverage

Coverage for those with preexisting conditions is only available on the Premium plan

• 100% reimbursement for trip cancellation; 175% reimbursement for trip interruption
• $2,000 in coverage for loss of baggage per person
• $1,000 per person in travel delay and missed connection coverage
• $250,000 in medical and dental coverage per person

In addition to single-trip plans, company offers specific road trip, adventure travel, flight and cruise insurance coverage

Coverage for missed connections or accidental death and dismemberment is not part of the most basic plan

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost; interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cost
• $500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged bags and personal items; bag delay coverage worth $200
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000; missed connection coverage worth up to $100
• Medical coverage worth up to $50,000

To help you better understand the costs associated with travel insurance, we requested quotes for a weeklong June 2024 trip to Spain for a solo traveler, a couple and a family. These rates should help you get a rough estimate for about how much you can expect to spend on travel insurance. For additional details on specific coverage from each travel insurance plan and to input your trip information for a quote, see our comparison table below.

Travel Insurance Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are several types of travel insurance you'll want to evaluate before choosing the policy that's right for you. A few of the most popular types of travel insurance include:

COVID travel insurance Select insurance plans offer some or a combination of the following COVID-19-related protections: coverage for rapid or PCR testing; accommodations if you're required to quarantine during your trip if you test positive for coronavirus; health care; and trip cancellations due to you or a family member testing positive for COVID-19. Read more about the best COVID-19 travel insurance options .

Cancel for any reason insurance Cancel for any reason travel insurance works exactly how it sounds. This type of travel insurance lets you cancel your trip for any reason you want – even if your reason is that you simply decide you no longer want to go. Cancel for any reason travel insurance is typically an add-on you can purchase to go along with other types of travel insurance. For that reason, you will pay more to have this kind of coverage added to your policy.

Also note that this type of coverage typically only reimburses 50% to 80% of your nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses. You'll want to make sure you know exactly how much reimbursement you could qualify for before you invest in this type of policy. Compare the best cancel for any reason travel insurance options here .

International travel insurance Travel insurance is especially useful when traveling internationally, as it can provide medical coverage for emergencies (in some cases for COVID-19) when you're far from home. Depending which international travel insurance plan you choose, this type of travel insurance can also cover lost or delayed luggage, rental cars, travel interruptions or cancellations, and more.

Cheap travel insurance If you want travel insurance but don't want to spend a lot of money, there are plenty of cheap travel insurance options that will offer at least some protections (and peace of mind). These are typically called a company's basic or standard plan; many travel insurance companies even allow you to customize your coverage, spending as little or as much as you want. Explore your options for the cheapest travel insurance here .

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance Trip cancellation coverage can help you get reimbursement for prepaid travel expenses, such as your airfare and cruise fare, if your trip is ultimately canceled for a covered reason. Trip interruption insurance, on the other hand, kicks in to reimburse you if your trip is derailed after it starts. For instance, if you arrived at your destination and became gravely ill, it would cover the cost if you had to cut your trip short.

Trip delay insurance can help you qualify for reimbursement of any unexpected expenses you incur (think: lodging, transportation and food) in the event your trip is delayed for reasons beyond your control, such as your flight being canceled and rebooked for the next day. You will want to save your receipts to substantiate your claim if you have this coverage.

Lost, damaged, delayed or stolen bags or personal belongings Coverage for lost or stolen bags can come in handy if your checked luggage is lost by your airline or your luggage is delayed so long that you have to buy clothing and toiletries for your trip. This type of coverage can kick in to cover the cost to replace lost or stolen items you brought on your trip. It can also provide coverage for the baggage itself. It's even possible that your travel insurance policy will pay for your flight home if damages are caused to your residence and your belongings while you're away, forcing you to return home immediately.

Travel medical insurance If you find yourself sick or injured while you are on vacation, emergency medical coverage can pay for your medical expenses. With that in mind, however, you will need to find out whether the travel medical insurance you buy is primary or secondary. Where a primary policy can be used right away to cover medical bills incurred while you travel, secondary coverage only provides reimbursement after you have exhausted other medical policies you have.

You will also need to know how the travel medical coverage you purchase deals with any preexisting conditions you have, including whether you will have any coverage for preexisting conditions at all. Read more about the best travel medical insurance plans .

Evacuation insurance Imagine you break your leg while on the side of a mountain in some far-flung land without quality health care. Not only would you need travel medical insurance coverage in that case, but you would also need coverage for the exorbitant expense involved in getting you off the side of a mountain and flying you home where you can receive appropriate medical care.

Evacuation coverage can come in handy if you need it, but you will want to make sure any coverage you buy comes with incredibly high limits. According to Squaremouth, an emergency evacuation can easily cost $25,000 in North America and up to $50,000 in Europe, so the site typically suggests customers buy policies with $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.

Cruise insurance Travel delays; missed connections, tours or excursions; and cruise ship disablement (when a ship encounters a mechanical issue and is unable to continue on in the journey) are just a few examples why cruise insurance can be a useful protection if you've booked a cruise vacation. Learn more about the top cruise insurance plans here .

Credit card travel insurance It is not uncommon to find credit cards that include trip cancellation and interruption coverage , trip delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage, travel accident insurance, and more. Cards that offer this coverage include popular options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card , the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card and The Platinum Card from American Express . 

Note that owning a credit card with travel insurance protection is not enough for your coverage to count: To take advantage of credit card travel insurance, you must pay for prepaid travel expenses like your airfare, hotel stay or cruise with that specific credit card. Also, note that credit cards with travel insurance have their own list of exclusions to watch out for. Many also require cardholders to pay an annual fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to buy travel insurance is normally within a few weeks of booking your trip since you may qualify for lower pricing if you book early. Keep in mind, some travel insurance providers allow you to purchase plans until the day before you depart.

Many times, you are given the option to purchase travel insurance when you book your airfare, accommodations or vacation package. Travel insurance and travel protection are frequently offered as add-ons for your trip, meaning you can pay for your vacation and some level of travel insurance at the same time.

However, many people choose to wait to buy travel insurance until after their entire vacation is booked and paid for. This helps travelers tally up all the underlying costs associated with a trip, and then choose their travel insurance provider and the level of coverage they want.

Figuring out where to buy travel insurance may be confusing but you can easily research and purchase travel insurance online these days. Some consumers prefer to shop around with a specific provider, such as Allianz or Travelex, but you can also shop and compare policies with a travel insurance platform. Popular options include:

• TravelInsurance.com: TravelInsurance.com offers travel insurance options from more than a dozen vetted insurance providers. Users can read reviews on the various travel insurance providers to find out more about previous travelers' experiences with them. Squaremouth: With Squaremouth, you can enter your trip details and compare more than 90 travel insurance plans from 20-plus providers.
• InsureMyTrip: InsureMyTrip works similarly, letting you shop around and compare plans from more than 20 travel insurance providers in one place. InsureMyTrip also offers several guarantees, including a Best Price Guarantee, a Best Plan Guarantee and a Money-Back Guarantee that promises a full refund if you decide you no longer need the plan you purchased.

Protect your trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance plans for the lowest price. Get a quote .

When you need to file a travel insurance claim, you should plan on explaining to your provider what happened to your trip and why you think your policy applies. If you planned to go on a Caribbean cruise, but your husband fell gravely ill the night before you were set to depart, you would need to explain that situation to your travel insurance company. Information you should share with your provider includes the details of why you're making a claim, who was involved and the exact circumstances of your loss.

Documentation is important, and your travel insurance provider will ask for proof of what happened. Required documentation for travel insurance typically includes any proof of a delay, receipts, copies of medical bills and more.

Most travel insurance companies let you file a claim using an online form, but some also allow you to file a claim by phone or via fax. Some travel insurance providers, such as Allianz and Travel Insured International, offer their own mobile apps you can use to buy policies and upload information or documents that substantiate your claim. In any case, you will need to provide the company with proof of your claim and the circumstances that caused it.

If your claim is initially denied, you may also need to answer some questions or submit some additional information that can highlight why you do, in fact, qualify.

Whatever you do, be honest and forthcoming with all the information in your claim. Also, be willing to provide more information or answer any questions when asked.

Travel insurance claims typically take four to six weeks to process once you file with your insurance company. However, with various flight delays and cancellations due to things like extreme weather and pilot shortages, more travelers have begun purchasing travel insurance, encountering trip issues and having to submit claims. The higher volume of claims submitted has resulted in slower turnaround times at some insurance companies.

The longer you take to file your travel insurance claim after a loss, the longer you will be waiting for reimbursement. Also note that, with many travel insurance providers, there is a time limit on how long you can submit claims after a trip. For example, with Allianz Travel Insurance and Travelex Insurance Services, you have 90 days from the date of your loss to file a claim.

You may be able to expedite the claim if you provide all the required information upfront, whereas the process could drag on longer than it needs to if you delay filing a claim or the company has to follow up with you to get more information.

Travel insurance is never required, and only you can decide whether or not it's right for you. Check out Is Travel Insurance Worth It? to see some common situations where it does (and doesn't) make sense.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance of April 2024

Mandy Sleight

Heidi Gollub

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

Updated 9:52 a.m. UTC April 11, 2024

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WorldTrips is the best cheap travel insurance company of 2024 based on our in-depth analysis of the cheapest travel insurance plans. Its Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier plans offer affordable travel insurance with high limits for emergency medical and evacuation benefits bundled with good coverage for trip delays, travel inconvenience and missed connections.

Cheapest travel insurance of 2024

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of travel insurance experts analyzes hundreds of insurance products and thousands of data points to help you find the best travel insurance for your next trip. 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.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best cheap travel insurance

Top-scoring plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, medical evacuation limit per person, why it’s the best.

WorldTrips tops our rating of the cheapest travel insurance with two plans:

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheaper travel insurance plan of the two, with $100,000 per person in emergency medical benefits as secondary coverage and an optional upgrade to primary coverage. It’s also our pick for the best travel insurance for cruises .
• Atlas Journey Premier costs a little more but gives you $150,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage . This is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority.

Pros and cons

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheapest of our 5-star travel insurance plans.
• Atlas Journey Premier offers $150,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Both plans have top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Each plan offers travel inconvenience coverage of $750 per person.
• 12 optional upgrades, including destination wedding and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Cheap travel insurance for cruises

Travel insured.

Top-scoring plan

Travel Insured offers cheap travel insurance for cruises and its Worldwide Trip Protector plan gets 4 stars in our rating of the best cruise travel insurance .

• Worldwide Trip Protector offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits, which means you won’t have to file medical claims with your health insurance first.
• Cheap trip insurance for cruises.
• Offers a rare $150,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person only available for cruises and tours.

Best cheap travel insurance for families

Travelex has the best cheap travel insurance for families because kids age 17 are covered by your policy for free when they’re traveling with you.

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• $2,000 travel delay coverage per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Only $50,000 per person emergency medical coverage.
• Baggage delay coverage is only $200 and requires a 12-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for seniors

Evacuation limit per person

Nationwide has the best cheap travel insurance for seniors — its Prime plan gets 4 stars in our best senior travel insurance rating. However, Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan ranks higher in our best cheap travel insurance rating.

• Cruise Choice has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion. It also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay, for cruises or tours. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.
• Coverage for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person is only for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for add-on options

AIG offers the best cheap travel insurance for add-on options because the Travel Guard Preferred plan allows you to customize your policy with a host of optional upgrades.

• Travel Guard Preferred upgrades include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings. There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million.
• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your affordable travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Best cheap travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe has the best cheap travel insurance for missed connections because coverage is not limited to cruises and tours, as it is with many policies.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of the best cheap travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

Cheapest travel insurance comparison

How much does the cheapest travel insurance cost?

The cheapest travel insurance in our rating is $334. This is for a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred travel insurance plan, based on the average of seven quotes for travelers of various ages to international destinations with a range of trip values.  

Factors that determine travel insurance cost

There are several factors that determine the cost of travel insurance, including:

• Age and number of travelers being insured.
• Trip length.
• Total trip cost.
• The travel insurance plan you choose.
• The travel insurance company.
• Any add-ons, features or upgraded benefits you include in the travel insurance plan.

Expert tip: “In general, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 10% of their total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs,” said Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip.

Is buying the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?

Choosing cheaper travel insurance without paying attention to what a plan covers and excludes could leave you underinsured for your trip. Comparing travel insurance plans side-by-side can help ensure you get enough coverage to protect yourself financially in an emergency for the best price. 

For example, compare these two Travelex travel insurance plans:

• Travel Basic is cheaper but it only provides up to $15,000 for emergency medical expense coverage. You’ll also have to pay extra for coverage for children.
• Travel Select will cost you a bit more but it covers up to $50,000 in medical expenses and includes coverage for kids aged 17 and younger traveling with you. It also offers upgrades such additional medical coverage, “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and an adventure sports rider that may be a good fit for your trip.

Reasons to consider paying more for travel insurance 

Make sure you understand what you’re giving up if you buy the cheapest travel insurance. Here are a few reasons you may consider paying a little extra for better coverage. 

• Emergency medical. The best travel medical insurance offers primary coverage for emergency medical benefits. Travel insurance with primary coverage can cost more than secondary coverage but will save you from having to file a claim with your health insurance company before filing a travel insurance claim.
• Emergency evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote location or planning a boat excursion on your trip, look at travel insurance with a high medical evacuation insurance limit. If you are injured while traveling, transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility could cost in the tens to hundreds of thousands. It may make sense to pay more for travel insurance with robust emergency evacuation coverage. 
• Flexibility. To maximize your trip flexibility, you might consider upgrading your travel insurance to “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage . This will increase the cost of your travel insurance but allow you to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy. The catch is that you’ll need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and will only be reimbursed 50% or 75% of your trip expenses, depending on the plan. 
• Upgrades. Many travel insurance plans have optional extras like car rental collision and adventure sports (which may otherwise be excluded from coverage). These will cost you extra but may give you the coverage you need. 

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

The best way to find the cheapest travel insurance is to determine what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy and compare plans that meet your needs.

 “Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs, wants and concerns. This is why comparison is key,” said Morrow.

Consider the following factors when comparing cheap travel insurance plans.

• How often you’re traveling. A single-trip policy may be the most cost-effective if you’re only going on a single trip this year. But a multi-trip travel insurance plan may be cheaper if you’re going on multiple international trips throughout the year. Annual travel insurance policies cover you for a whole year as long as each trip doesn’t exceed a certain number of days, usually 30 to 90 days. 
• Credit card has travel insurance benefits. The best credit cards offer perks and benefits, and many offer travel insurance-specific benefits. The coverage types and benefit limits can vary, and you must put the entire trip cost on the credit card to use the coverage. If your trip costs more than the coverage limit on your card, you can supplement the rest with a cheaper travel insurance plan.
• The coverage you need. When looking for the best travel insurance option at the most affordable price, only buy extras and upgrades you really need. A basic plan may only provide up to $500 in baggage insurance, but if you only plan to take $300 worth of clothes and accessories, you don’t need to pay more for higher coverage limits.

Is cheap travel insurance worth it?

Cheap travel insurance can be worth it, as long as you understand the plan limitations and exclusions. Taking the time to read your policy, especially the fine print, well before your trip can ensure there won’t be any surprises about what’s covered once your journey begins.

“If a traveler is looking for coverage for travel delays, cancellations, interruptions, medical and baggage — a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide the most bang for their buck,” said Morrow. But if you’re on a tight budget and are only worried about emergency medical care and evacuation coverage while traveling abroad, stand-alone options are cheaper.

Before buying travel insurance, you should also consider what your health insurance will cover. 

“Most domestic health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover medical bills abroad,” said Morrow. Even if you’re staying stateside, you may find value in an affordable travel insurance plan with medical coverage if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). 

A cheap travel insurance plan is better than none at all if you end up in a situation that would have covered some or all of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance . From those top-scoring travel insurance plans, we chose the most affordable for our rating of the cheapest travel insurance.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• Cost: 40 points. We scored the average cost of each travel insurance policy for a variety of trips and traveler profiles.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

Cheapest travel insurance FAQs

When buying travel insurance, cheapest is not always the best. The most affordable travel insurance plans typically offer fewer coverages with lower policy limits and few or no optional upgrades. Add up your total nonrefundable trip costs and compare travel insurance plans and available features that cover your travel expenses. This strategy can help you find the cheapest travel insurance policy that best protects you from financial loss if an unforeseen circumstance arises.

Get the coverage you need: Best travel insurance of 2024

According to our analysis, WorldTrips , Travel Insured International and Travelex offer the best cheap travel insurance. Policy coverage types and limits can vary by each travel insurance provider, so the best way to get the cheapest travel insurance plan is to compare several policies and companies to find the right fit for your budget.

A good rate for travel insurance depends on your budget and coverage needs. The most comprehensive travel insurance plan is usually not the cheapest. But cheap trip insurance may not have enough coverage or the types of coverage you want. Comparing different levels of coverage and how much they cost can help you find the best cheap insurance for travel. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% to 6% of your total travel expenses for one trip, according to our analysis of rates. However, you may find cheaper travel insurance if you opt for a plan with fewer benefits or lower coverage limits. How much you pay for travel insurance will also depend on the number of travelers covered, their ages, the length of the trip and any upgrades you add to your plan.

Travel insurance covers nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs — up to the policy coverage limits — when your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason outlined in your plan documents. Even the cheapest travel insurance policies usually provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies.
• Trip delays.
• Trip interruption.
• Trip cancellation.
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

However, if you’re looking to save on travel insurance, you can shop for a policy that only has travel medical insurance and does not include benefits for trip cancellation .

Even when you buy cheap travel insurance, you can often use upgrade options to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. 

Some common travel insurance add-ons you may want to consider include:

• Rental car damage coverage. 
• Medical bundle.
• Security bundle.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Adventure sports bundle.
• Pet bundle.
• Wedding bundle.
• “Cancel for work reasons” coverage.
• “Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage.
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

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

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

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

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

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Long-term care insurance: Why those in their 70s should act now

By Joshua Rodriguez

Edited By Matt Richardson

April 17, 2024 / 1:44 PM EDT / CBS News

Long-term care insurance isn't a product that most younger adults are racing to get their hands on. However, the need for this type of insurance grows exponentially as you age . Once you reach 65 years old, you have a  significantly elevated need for long-term care  assistance. So, if you're in your 70s and don't already have coverage, now is the time to act. 

After all, being able to afford long-term care services can be challenging. Even the lowest cost long-term care support can set you back tens of thousands of dollars per year. And if you need the type of assistance that nursing homes provide, you could end up paying over $100,000 per year for that care. This is why seniors in their 70s should consider acting now.

Lock in your long-term care insurance coverage now before it's too late . 

While the optimal time to purchase long-term care insurance is typically when you're in your 50s , it's an even more important consideration when you're in your 70s. In fact, if you're in your 70s, and don't already have a plan to cover your long-term care costs, you should purchase a policy now . Here's why:

Long-term care costs will likely only rise

Long-term care services are costly. Current costs for this type of support range from tens of thousands of dollars to over a hundred thousand dollars annually. And unfortunately, that cost isn't likely to fall.

Healthcare services - like long-term care - are not immune to the impact of inflation. And lately, inflation rates have been higher than expected . According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , medical care services were 2.1% more expensive in March than they were one year earlier. As prices continue to grow, adequate long-term care services will likely become even more difficult to afford in the years ahead.   

And at 70 years old, you may be on a fixed income. As such, it may be impossible for you to keep up with the growing cost of long-term care without the help an insurance policy can provide.

Purchase long-term care insurance now to make sure you can cover the growing cost of care . 

Long-term care insurance will only become more expensive

Long-term care insurance companies have to consider the financial risk involved in writing policies. In turn, those policies tend to come with higher premiums as you age . So, acting now, even while you're in your 70s, will likely yield better premiums than you could access in the years ahead. 

"A person applying for a LTC insurance policy at an older age will have a shorter time period before filing a claim to access their policy benefits," says Lori Martin, CLTC, and instructor for Certification for Long-Term Care, a firm that provides certifications for long-term care insurance agents. As a result, she says, the "LTC insurance carrier is not collecting as much premium dollars and premiums are not invested for a longer period of time." That leads to higher premium prices for older applicants.

And, insurers have to account for health issues that may come later in life. "Older individuals may have health issues later in life that aren't discovered during the application underwriting process," says Martin. So, further risk is involved for the insurer, typically leading to a higher cost for older applicants. 

Coverage options may become more limited

As you age, your long-term care insurance coverage options will likely begin to dwindle. And if you wait too long after you're 70 years old, you may not qualify for coverage at all. 

"A barrier for this age group is acceptance since the rejection rate by 70 years old is about 50%," explains Afik Gal, co-founder and president of Assured Allies, a financial planning and insurance firm that serves seniors. But, you may still have adequate coverage options if you act quickly. So, you shouldn't wait to shop for coverage. 

The bottom line

Long-term care insurance is an effective way to plan for the cost of your care in the future. However, as you age, the cost of that insurance could climb and the availability of adequate policies may dwindle. The good news is that you still may have quality coverage options available to you, even in your 70s. But, it's important to act now to make sure you don't miss your opportunity to purchase a policy, and that, when you do, you get the lowest premiums possible. 

Joshua Rodriguez is a personal finance and investing writer with a passion for his craft. When he's not working, he enjoys time with his wife, two kids, two dogs and two ducks.

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Should You Buy Travel Insurance Before Taking a Cruise?

W hen you book most forms of travel these days, you're often asked if you'd like to purchase travel insurance. Different airlines, cruise ships, and hotel brands might have different names for this, such as "vacation protection," but these are optional products that are designed to make sure that if something goes wrong, you aren't on the hook financially.

To be fair, I typically decline travel insurance for flying. Since all of the major airlines allow you to change your flight for free, if I get sick and can't travel, I simply use the value of my ticket toward a future flight.

However, cruises are a different situation. Not only could you potentially get sick and miss the cruise altogether, but there are other things that could go wrong. What if you get so sick on board that you need to be medically evacuated back to the U.S.? What if severe weather in your hometown prevents you from getting to the cruise port?

With these and other potential scenarios in mind, here's what you need to know about buying travel insurance for a cruise and whether it's a good idea.

What does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance policy underwritten by an insurance company (not by the cruise line or airline itself). While the exact coverage can vary, here are some of the things it will typically cover on a cruise:

Read more: check out our picks for the best car insurance companies

• Trip cancellation protection
• Trip interruption coverage in case you need to come home early
• Baggage insurance to cover loss, damage, or theft
• Baggage delay protection, which reimburses for essential items while you wait for delayed luggage
• Medical coverage (Note: U.S. health insurance typically doesn't apply when on a cruise ship or when traveling internationally.)
• Evacuation protection, in case you need to be medically evacuated back to the U.S. while traveling

In addition, the protection plans offered directly through the cruise lines might have additional benefits. For example, Carnival's Vacation Protection provides travel insurance underwritten by Nationwide, but also makes it easier to get a refund if you need to cancel.

Not only does it refund 100% of your trip's cost if you need to cancel for a covered reason like weather or illness, but you can cancel for any reason whatsoever and get 75% of your money back (you usually can't get a refund at all once the final payment date has passed).

Different options to consider

For travel insurance, there are two main options: You can buy single trip coverage (this is what the cruise lines and airlines offer) that will protect you on one specific vacation. Or you can buy an annual travel insurance policy directly from an insurance company. For example, Allianz is a major travel insurance provider, and in full disclosure, I have a policy for myself and my family through them.

If you travel more than once or twice per year, especially on cruises, it's worth comparing the costs, as an annual travel insurance policy can often be more budget-friendly (and often provides better coverage). On the other hand, if you're taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip, simply buying protection through the cruise line can be a better way to go.

It's also worth noting that some travel credit cards have their own travel protections. They can provide their own trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption and delay coverage, baggage insurance, and a few other benefits if you use your card to pay for the trip. They may not, however, provide the medical and evacuation coverages that are highly important while cruising, so be sure to research all the details ahead of time.

Make sure you're protected one way or another

The bottom line is that when taking a cruise, it's highly advisable to make sure you have some sort of travel protection, especially for medical emergencies. The best choice for you depends on how often you plan to cruise, as frequent cruisers can typically save money by purchasing an annual travel insurance policy. But if you aren't sure, it can be a smart idea to compare the costs before deciding.

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Ready to shop for car insurance? Whether you’re focused on price, claims handling, or customer service, we've researched insurers nationwide to provide our best-in-class picks for car insurance coverage. Read our free expert review  today to get started.

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.American Express is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Matt Frankel has positions in American Express. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy .

Globe Life Insurance Review

Globe life controversy, globe life insurance plans available, how much does globe life insurance cost, how to file a claims with globe life insurance, globe life insurance faqs.

• Why You Should Trust Us

Globe Life Insurance Review 2024

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

Planning for the future is the foundation that continues to draw customers to life insurance companies like Globe Life. Since 1900, Globe Life has helped individuals to face the unexpected and ensure a secure financial future for loved ones.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing on whole and term life insurance products
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all states except Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Whole life insurance death benefits are limited
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No options for investment or accelerated death benefits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No claims filing options online

Life insurance is more diverse than ever before. Its foundation remains supporting families after the passing of a loved one. Globe Life issues 16.8 million policies, more than any of the nation's leading life insurance companies. But volume is only part of the picture.

Globe Life's zero-risk, money-back guarantee makes its policies an excellent fit for middle-income individuals looking to purchase directly from the company with no medical exam and short wait times. In addition, with benefits topping out at just $100,000, life insurance coverage from Globe Life is a good choice for individuals looking to supplement existing or employer-provided life insurance and those seeking coverage for additional family members.

However, even the best no medical exam life insurance doesn't always mean guaranteed acceptance. Buyers should expect medical questions, and the company may request medical records. Its underwriting decisions, especially for more comprehensive policies, will factor in this medical data.

Globe Life's forte is low-cost funeral plans, and customer reviews indicate it delivers on its promises. Kathy of Londonderry, OH, left a review on ConsumerAffairs after losing her 19-year-old grandson, saying, "I am so thankful to Globe Life. We could not have taken care of him without the policy. The funeral cost were paid very quickly with no stress of me handling anything and I could stay focused on what needed done."

Globe Life has been under pressure due to a series of investigations and lawsuits alleging a toxic work environment, deceptive consumer practices, and fraud. Its stock plunged about 50% in mid-April 2024 after a short-seller issued a scathing report describing, among other things, a work culture, "permissive of sexual assault, rape, racism, and widespread illicit drug activity" within American Income Life, a subsidiary of Globe Life. Globe Life denied the allegations, saying in a statement  that the short-seller "mischaracterizes facts and uses unsubstantiated claims and conjecture to present an overall picture of Globe Life that is deliberately false, misleading, and defamatory."

In March 2024, the Department of Justice subpoenaed AIL and Globe Life for documents related to Arias Organization, an affiliate insurance agency. The DOJ investigation, as well as two open investigations conducted by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, appear to be ongoing. 

Globe Term Life Insurance

Globe Life offers term life insurance coverage ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Policies are purchased directly from the company with no medical exam and quick underwriting. Once your application is approved, Globe Life benefits and monthly premiums remain fixed when policyholders make payments on time.

Like any other term policy, Globe Life's policies expire after the set term. Globe Life mentions converting term policies to whole life insurance policies to make coverage permanent. But the website is light on details, focusing on extremely low premiums for specific customers. Globe Life's term life policies are available for adults and children. All applications are subject to underwriting approval. So the pricing listed online (and your acceptance) may vary when you secure the policy.

Globe Whole Life Insurance

Globe Life offers whole life policies with benefits from $5,000 to $50,000. You can purchase policies directly from the company with no medical exam and no long wait times. Rates remain constant for life, as does coverage (when premiums are paid on time), which means you can rest assured in your chosen coverage.

Remember, Globe Life's underwriting will not approve every application, especially with higher limits. No medical exam does not translate into no medical information required. Buyers will need to answer some medical questions, and the company can pull electronic medical records to make its decision. No medical policies are typically sold to select groups like seniors looking for funeral policies or young, healthy buyers willing to pay higher premiums for lower coverage to avoid a medical exam.

Globe Children's Life Insurance

Whole life insurance for kids (or grandkids) is available from Globe Life in numbers ranging from $5,000-$30,000. Full coverage and benefits begin on day one. Available with no medical exam and zero waiting, a hassle-free policy from Globe Life might be the easiest part of welcoming a new member to your family. Benefits remain constant for life, despite age, health status, or occupation when premiums are paid on time.

As with its adult policies, Globe Life offers children whole and term life insurance options. Applicants who get approval for children's policies can also buy more comprehensive policies as adults. However, these smaller policies offer a gateway into life insurance and its financial benefits early in life. Children's life insurance can be a wealth-building tool, particularly with its whole life policies. It's never too early for financial planning.

It's easy to find comparable adult policies through other companies. However, Globe Life's life insurance for children faces less competition overall.

Globe Final Expense Life Insurance

Many of Globe Life's policies could be considered "final expense" policies. By this, we mean the limits are low and only meant to cover funeral costs and a small amount of debt. However, it provides a specific product for seniors comfortable with lower coverage amounts. As a result, approval is often more straightforward.

This policy type comes with obvious limits (the death benefit). However, buyers should also be aware of other limitations, like the inability to build cash value over time. So no matter how long you live, the value will remain the same.

Additional Coverage Options Offered by Globe Life

Accidental Benefits Insurance

You can prepare for the unexpected and the financial strain that can accompany it with an extra layer of protection. Accidental death insurance from Globe Life provides up to $250,000 worth of coverage in the case of accidental death for just $1 to start. In addition, acceptance is guaranteed regardless of health for individuals aged 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage for myriad issues from inflation and education to dismemberment and paralysis.

Accidental death coverage only pays out if you're killed in an accident. Causes could include travel-related accidents, trips and falls, poisonings, etc. It would not cover terminal illnesses, extended injuries after an accident, or dying from old age. Globe life also has a supplemental accidental insurance product. Accidental death coverage helps buyers with ambulance riders, ICU stays, and other medical costs of accidents that don't result in death.

Mortgage Protection Insurance

You can protect your family's biggest asset and a potential source of stress in the event of your accidental death. For just a fraction of your monthly mortgage payment, this type of accidental death and dismemberment policy provides between $50,000-$350,000 to pay off your home mortgage. If the payout doesn't pay off your mortgage, loved ones could then look into options to refinance the smaller debt to lower monthly payments.

Rates start at just $5.50 per month, and acceptance is guaranteed for individuals ages 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage in the case of a common disaster or commercially scheduled airline accident, among others.

One important thing to note is this is an accidental death and dismemberment policy. In short, it's not a comprehensive plan for every cause of death. Benefits would only apply after a covered accident. The limits are part of what makes this policy so cheap. It's excellent for a policyholder's prime working years but may not be as beneficial for retirees.

Globe Life's advertised rates are affordable, with types of life insurance  for adults and children starting at $1 for the first month, after which the rate is based on the individual's current age and guaranteed for the policy terms. Unlike some competitors, Globe Life also offers a limited money-back guarantee. If unsatisfied, return your policy within 30 days for a full refund.

Globe Life offers many cheap plans with low payouts. These are great for buyers on a tight budget or those seeking easy approval for a funeral cost plan. However, buyers looking for large plans for retirement or other financial planning would find better products with other companies.

Anyone can file a claim with Globe Life, including a spouse, child, another beneficiary, or a family spokesperson (including a representative from a funeral home). Providing the following information will expedite the claims process:

• Life insurance policy number
• Contact info for the beneficiary
• Official death certificate
• Copy of obituary
• Coroner's and/or police report (in the case of accident, homicide, or suicide)

Once gathered, mail all documents to the following:

Globe Life Inc.

PO Box 8076

Attn: Life Claims Department

McKinney, TX 75070

On average, it takes Globe Life 10-15 days to receive, log and process the information included in the above documents. Please bear in mind processing times can vary. Globe Life representatives will notify you should additional information be needed.

It only takes a few minutes to complete its easy online application. Once approved, Globe Life will send a copy of your policy via mail.

Obtaining additional life insurance coverage for family members is easy with Globe Life's e-ServiceCenter. New applications for adults and children are accessible with your current login information if you have an existing plan. New customers can also apply online or over the phone.

Once you've begun the claims process, Globe Life offers phone and online-based customer service. Call Customer Service at 1-888-650-4081 or visit the company's eServiceCenter to check the status of a claim you've filed.

Globe Life Insurance Competitors

Learn more about Globe Life Insurance and whether it is the right life insurance company for you.

Globe Life vs. State Farm Life Insurance

Globe Life prides itself on simple, standard coverage delivering death benefits topping out at $100,000 compared to more robust options from State Farm . Globe Life focuses mainly on small funeral policies or accident coverage. State Farm offers larger payouts and options like its Survivorship Universal Life Insurance, which covers two individuals. So, for example, a husband and wife could buy a policy, and the value would be based on the couple's combined lifespan and qualifications.

Globe Life scored 798 on the latest JD Power US Individual Life Insurance Study. In short, the company earns consistently high marks from customers. Still, State Farm outranks Globe Life with a score of 843. With State Farm, applicants may have to submit to a medical exam. But the company offers more comprehensive policies to pay out in more flexible circumstances. It also has more permanent life insurance options to meet diverse needs. Most importantly, buyers can bundle State Farm life insurance with homeowners, auto, and other State Farm plans.

As you might expect from its JD Power rankings, State Farm customers have a lot to say about the package it provides. Mb of Palm Springs, CA, left a review on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "State Farm may or may not be the cheapest. However, their customer service is outstanding. They proactively contact me to review my insurance once a year. They always answer my questions quickly and clearly. If they don't know immediately, they are willing to admit they don't know and always follow-up ASAP."

State Farm Life Insurance Review

Globe Life vs. Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life has become known for its quick and flexible whole and term life policies. Especially with its accidental death policies, Globe Life offers no medical exam options with fast approvals. Mutual of Omaha is not quite as cheap. Term Life Express is the company's only option for life insurance with no medical exam. But it comes with significantly higher limits than any of Globe Life's policies for all causes of death (not just approved accidents) up to $300,000. The company's strong financial backing means building cash value is easy, as evidenced by options including Universal Life Insurance (boasting coverage over $1 million) and Indexed Universal Life Insurance (a flexible albeit risky way to build cash value).

Both companies have whole life policies. Again, Mutual of Omaha offers a diverse range of policies with higher benefits. Mutual of Omaha customers can enjoy accelerated death benefits in the event of a terminal disease and other riders. Its underwriting may take longer than Globe Life's, but the higher benefits will pay off in the long run for approved customers. At this time, both companies enjoy high customer satisfaction rankings with JD Power.

Most importantly, Mutual of Omaha will likely never offer the bargain policies Globe Life does. But customers still find pricing reasonable. Wendy of Enola, PA, reviewed Mutual of Omaha on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "I have a practical and effective insurance policy with great and affordable rates. Company has an excellent and easy to use website."

Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life vs. SBLI 

SBLI offers Cherish Life final expense insurance up to $35,000 in coverage with two significant benefits. SBLI customers can apply until age 80, and beneficiaries can use benefits to pay for any of the insured's expenses. Globe Life has a cut-off age of 75 to apply. Both companies offer whole and term life insurance policies. Both companies also have no medical exam life insurance options.

At this time, Globe Life's listed policy limits are low. Most policies cover funeral costs. Plans with higher benefits are mostly accident policies (it only pays out if you die due to a covered accident). SBLI doesn't list its limits on its site. However, it focuses on whole and term life insurance for any cause of death.

The customer reviews tell a great story about SBLI. Trustpilot reviewer Matthew says, "SBLI has always been a notch above all others in the insurance industry. We have had policies with them for about 8 years, and have never experienced anything but great service, honest and candid feedback, and they deliver exactly what they communicate!"

SBLI Review

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Globe Life Insurance

Life insurance companies are compared based on product quality, insurance riders, net performance scores, pricing, and customer service. A diverse array of life insurance products is used to compare death benefit plans with life insurance designed for long-term financial planning. Opinions expressed here are wholly based on facts gathered.

Ratings are not decided based solely on marketing or single online reviews. Instead, we gather a broad mix of information to rank all insurance products consistently and fairly. Therefore, the best way to ensure you find the right policy is to utilize a qualified agent when shopping for life insurance.

You can read more about our rating system here .

What Does "No Medical Exam" Mean With Globe Life?

None of the life insurance products at Globe Life require a medical or physical exam. Instead, the insurer uses a series of health-related questions (part of the company's online application) to determine eligibility. Full transparency, especially with preexisting conditions, is essential. Dishonesty of any kind puts the insured at risk of policy cancellation or unpaid death benefits. You may be eligible for a small funeral costs policy even if you're denied a more comprehensive life insurance policy.

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

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

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