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Studying abroad? Here are the best international student travel insurance companies

Travel insurance can not only save students money when studying abroad, but many schools also require it..

Studying abroad is a valuable educational and cultural experience and could give you an advantage in the job market after graduation. Buying travel insurance is a way to protect yourself financially while studying abroad. 

Many international programs require travel insurance , and some offer it through a predetermined provider. But if you're on the hunt for a comprehensive travel insurance plan on your own, CNBC Select has made it a little easier. We compared dozens of top travel insurance companies for students and narrowed down the five best options that stood out for their strong coverage and affordability . (See our methodology for more information.)

Best student travel insurance

• Best overall: AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance
• Best for medical expenses: USI Affinity Travel Insurance
• Best for trip interruptions: Travel Guard Travel Insurance
• Best for customizable coverage: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for students on a budget: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Best overall

Axa assistance usa travel insurance.

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

24/7 assistance available

• Three tiers of plans available
• Highly rated for financial strength
• Cancel for any reason only available on highest-tier coverage

AXA Assistance USA 's most basic plan, the Silver Plan, includes all of the essentials a student will likely need while studying abroad: coverage for emergency medical expenses (up to $25,000 for accident or sickness and up to $100,000 for evacuation), baggage loss (up to $750) trip interruption and trip cancellation. 

It's budget-friendly as well and is one of the most affordable yet comprehensive travel insurance plans on the market. If you're interested in higher coverage limits, AXA offers two more premium plans, one of which includes a cancel for any reason (CFAR) option. 

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for medical expenses

Usi affinity travel insurance.

USI Affinity has travel medical policies in addition to trip cancellation policies. Travel medical plans include an option for frequent travelers to cover multiple trips. Trip cancellation options include coverage for road trips and group travel.

• Wide variety of plans for both trip cancellation coverage and travel medical insurance
• CFAR only covers up to 70% of non-refundable trip costs

USI Affinity is a good choice for students primarily concerned about potential medical expenses abroad. The company offers only one trip cancellation plan but offers a wide variety of travel medical plans tailored to specific situations.

Best for trip interruptions

Travel guard® travel insurance.

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Students who are concerned about trip interruptions should consider Travel Guard , which offers last-minute coverage. There are three base packages available online, with more options available through a representative. Its most basic plan includes typical coverage for travel medical expenses (up to $15,000 in medical expenses and $150,000 for evacuation), but robust coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage theft as well as per-day compensation for trip delays.

Best for customizable coverage

Allianz travel insurance.

10 travel insurance plans make it possible to customize your coverage. For families, Allianz's OneTrip Prime package covers children age 17 and younger when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

• Trip cancellation benefits can reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons stated in your plan documents. 
• Limited coverage for risky sports

Allianz offers a whopping 10 different travel insurance policies. While many premium insurers offer cancel for any reason coverage that can cover up to 75% of prepaid, non-refundable trip costs, Allianz's Cancel Anytime upgrade can reimburse up to 80% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons stated in your plan documents. If you're planning to be adventurous during your study abroad experience, Allianz has a variety of add-ons to cover rental cars, hazardous sports and more. 

Best for students on a budget

Berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has multiple plans to cover vacations from luxury travel to adventure travel. The brand's LuxuryCare offers the highest limits of travel insurance coverage offered by the company. Quotes and policies are available online.

• Wide variety of policies available
• Strong financial strength rating by AM Best
• Cancel for any reason only provides reimbursement for up to 50% of non-refundable trip payments

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is a strong choice for students on a tight budget looking for strong coverage. Its most basic plan (the ExactCare Value plan) earned one of the cheapest quotes reviewed by CNBC Select and includes moderate-limit coverage for everything a student might need while studying internationally. 

More on our top travel insurance for studying abroad

AXA's travel insurance offers medical coverage for emergencies and accidents while traveling for up to $250,000. It offers three different plans for travelers starting as low as $16 according to its website.

CFAR coverage available

24/7 assistance?  

[ Return to summary ]

USI Affinity offers a number of travel plans, including travel medical plans for those traveling outside of the U.S. Its InterMedical Insurance plan has three levels of medical coverage available ranging from $50,000 to $150,000, and starts at $1.35 per day, according to the company's website.

Travel Guard Travel Insurance

Travel Guard's travel insurance could be a fit for students studying abroad with three levels of coverage. Its travel medical expense coverage can go up to $100,000 with the brand's deluxe plan.

Allianz offers several types of travel insurance for students, including its OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan with up to $50,000 in emergency medical benefits and $250,000 in evacuation benefits. Its OneTrip Prime and Premier plans offer cancellation and trip interruption benefits on top of emergency medical benefits up to $50,000.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers several travel insurance plans that could be a fit for student travelers, including its ExactCare Value and ExactCare plans, offering both trip cancellation and interruption coverage in addition to medical coverage.

What does travel insurance cover for studying abroad? 

Medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Stan Sandberg, a co-founder of the online marketplace TravelInsurance.com , said medical coverage is the most important area of coverage for students studying abroad. 

Most travel insurance plans, regardless of whether they are designed for students, cover medical expenses incurred abroad. Medical expense coverage can help to cover injuries or illnesses you may incur while abroad. Emergency evacuation coverage generally includes transportation to the nearest adequate facility or transportation home.

Travel medical coverage can exclude some situations that are relevant for students studying abroad — namely, intoxication. "If the individual is either beyond a certain intoxication level or under the influence of illegal substances, those things are very often excluded from coverage," Sandberg said. "So, a student traveling to a country that doesn't have a drinking age, for instance, that would be something to keep in mind."

Because of cultural alienation and homesickness, studying abroad can be an emotionally difficult time for many students. If you are shopping for student travel insurance, you should consider searching for a plan that covers mental health services. Read your travel policy carefully to understand the coverage offered and any requirements for coverage.

If medical expenses are the only cost you wish to insure, then you might instead consider an international health plan, which Sandberg recommends for students on a budget . 

Trip cancellation and interruption 

If your circumstances change at the last minute, you'll be grateful to have a travel insurance plan with trip cancellation coverage, which will reimburse you for your non-refundable trip costs, like flights and hotels , for covered events. 

This coverage will not, however, cover any non-refundable costs of your study abroad program, such as tuition, room and board, which are likely to be much more expensive than the flights to and from. So to Sandberg, this coverage is slightly less important for students.

Travel assistance

It's possible that studying abroad will be a student's first time out of the country. Traveling internationally , especially in areas with a language barrier, can be confusing. Many travel insurance plans, and all five policies we chose as our top picks , offer a 24/7 helpline to assist you along your journey. 

Lost or stolen baggage

Along with travel assistance, baggage loss and baggage delay coverage are examples of post-departure benefits. Study abroad programs typically last an entire semester or a summer, so you'll likely pack a lot of luggage. 

If you're traveling with valuables, you should consider searching for a plan that includes baggage insurance. Sandberg recommends reading the fine print, though, as many plans exclude electronic items in luggage and items above a certain value. 

And of course, make sure any policy is worth your money and aligns with your coverage goals before purchasing it. Many travel insurance policies offer free look periods that include time to read over the policy and cancel coverage with a refund.

What is travel insurance for studying abroad? 

For students and adults alike, travel insurance is a flexible type of coverage designed to protect you when you're far from home. By purchasing a policy, you can prevent financial hardship related to international medical expenses or travel mishaps like interruptions, delays and lost luggage. Some premium travel insurance plans offer cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, which allows you to recoup some of your expenses should you cancel your trip for any reason.

Is travel insurance worth it for studying abroad?

Travel insurance is a wise investment for travelers who will be abroad for a while, including students studying abroad. Most domestic medical plans do not cover international hospital bills, so in case of an emergency, having travel insurance with medical expense coverage could be crucial.

How much does travel insurance cost for students studying abroad?  

Travel insurance costs vary depending on the length of the trip, the age of the travelers and the extent of the coverage. You can expect to pay around 4% to 10% of your trip's total cost, according to travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip . Keep in mind though that your trip's "total cost" does not include the cost of your study abroad program itself. Most travel insurance companies are only interested in the cost of flights and non-program lodging like hotels. The best way to estimate the cost of insuring your trip is to get quotes from multiple companies.

What is international health insurance?

International health insurance is a health coverage plan that covers your medical expenses anywhere in the world. An international health insurance plan provides very similar medical coverage to that provided by a travel insurance plan.

Do I need travel insurance if my credit card has it already?

Some of the best travel credit cards on the market provide some travel protection. For example, the  Chase Sapphire Reserve®  card offers trip cancellation and interruption insurance up to $10,000 per covered person up to $20,000 per trip, travel accident insurance, emergency evacuation insurance and coverage for baggage delays and loss. Ask your issuer if your card has any travel protection benefits. If not, or if the coverage is minimal, you should consider purchasing travel insurance from a third party.

Bottom line

Not only is it a smart idea to purchase travel insurance to study abroad, but it is also required by a lot of international programs. With travel insurance, students can worry less about the unexpected and make the most of their experience abroad. If your academic program does not have a pre-existing partnership with a certain provider, then consider using one of these top travel insurance companies for students. 

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Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every travel insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of travel insurance products. While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best cheap travel insurance.

Our methodology 

To determine the best travel insurance companies for students studying abroad, CNBC Select analyzed dozens of U.S. travel insurance companies that come with a wide variety of policies and offer coverage for a number of situations. 

When narrowing down the best travel insurance companies, we focused on the coverage available, including the number of plans available, 24/7 assistance availability and cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage availability. We also considered financial strength ratings from AM Best and Better Business Bureau ratings for customer satisfaction.

To consider costs, we gathered quotes from the top travel insurance companies for four sample trips, which included:

1. A semester-long (January 15 to June 15) study-abroad trip to the United Kingdom:

• $3,000 per person (flights to and from JFK and non-program hotels)
• New York residents
• Traveler aged 20

2. A summer (June 15-August 15) study-abroad trip to Italy:

• $2,000 per person (flights to and from JFK and non-program hotels)

Sample quotes assumed that payments were made on the date of quoting.

Note that the premiums and policy structures advertised for travel insurance companies are subject to fluctuate in accordance with the company's policies.

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Contact information

Toll-Free Phone: 1 (800) 781-4040

Emergency Helpline: (800) 781-4040

Customer Service Request: Submit a customer service request via a form on their website .

Visit STA in New York City: 722 Broadway, New York, NY, USA 10003

Hours of operation: Mon-Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed Sundays

Website: www.statravel.com

Overview of STA Travel

STA Travel is the world’s largest student travel organization helping students travel in over 90 countries. They offer real value and flexibility, as well as genuine advice and first-hand experience. They are dedicated to providing young people with products and services that make travel fun, affordable, and safe. Site features include flight booking, hotels, hostels, travel insurance, global rail as well land tour products. Information on activities and destinations. Special deals, both domestic and international. STA Travel has more than 200 stores around the world, helping more than 2 million students annually.

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‹ Traveler Types

Travel Insurance Plans for Students

Understand the importance of travel insurance plans for students who are traveling and make sure you’re covered with the right Travel Guard travel insurance plan.

There’s not much that’s more exciting for a student than getting out of the classroom and getting a chance to explore the world on a student trip. Whether your student is taking a week-long class trip to Washington D.C. or spending a semester abroad, a Travel Guard travel insurance plan can help provide peace of mind knowing your traveler has the coverages they need while away from home.

Ready to book your student travel?

Travel Guard’s award-winning travel insurance plans provide excellent coverage options and access to 24-hour emergency travel assistance. Compare our travel insurance plans to find the best option for your student travel. Get travel insurance the way you want it!

What is a travel insurance plan for students?

Travel insurance plans for students provide important coverages like medical expense coverage and trip interruption coverage, as well as 24/7 emergency travel assistance so you can have more peace of mind while traveling. Travel Guard’s travel insurance plans allow you to choose among benefit limits and optional add-on coverages to create just what you need in your travel insurance plan.

What does a travel insurance plan for students cover?

Travel Guard offers customizable travel insurance plans for your travels. Look for a plan that has the coverages and benefit limits you need. Popular plan features include:

• Medical expense coverage 
• Emergency dental coverage
• Trip interruption coverage
• Trip cancellation coverage
• Emergency evacuation coverage
• Security coverage (optional add-on coverage available with certain plans)
• Baggage coverage
• Car rental coverage (optional add-on coverage)
• Emergency travel assistance – specialized representatives are available 24/7 to help

Do I need a travel insurance plan as a traveling student?

Taking a trip as a student can be overwhelming – for both the student and their family who is at home. Student travelers (and their families) can feel confident knowing that every Travel Guard travel insurance plan includes 24/7 emergency travel assistance . It can be a relief to know someone is there to help your student traveler anytime of the day or night. With customizable plans you can create the student travel insurance plan that fits your needs best.

Which Travel Guard travel insurance plan is best for my travels as a student?

Travel Guard’s Deluxe , Preferred , and Essential plans all include our 24/7 emergency travel assistance. Take a look at the coverages and benefit limits on each plan to find the one that meets your needs best. If you’re traveling abroad for an extended period, we recommend our Deluxe Plan as it has the highest benefit limits and most coverages included for your travels.

Does a travel insurance plan with Travel Guard cover dental?

Yes, most Travel Guard travel insurance plans include coverage for emergency dental up to the benefit limits on the policy. It’s important to remember this is for emergency treatment and not routine dental care. Always be sure to read the specific coverage details of the plan you are considering to ensure you understand your policy.

How much does a travel insurance plan cost?

On average, a travel insurance plan costs between 5-7% of the total cost of your trip. However, several factors come into play when pricing your plan, such as the plan you select, add-ons you choose and the length of your trip. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs.

Why book your travel insurance plan through Travel Guard?

Travel Guard is one of the world’s leading travel insurance providers with a network of service centers located in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, ensuring the highest quality emergency travel services and medical assistance while you’re traveling. With early purchase benefits and optional add-on coverages, you can customize the plan and coverages you need for your student travel.

Get travel insurance the way you want it!

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Your staff was very supportive on the phone when my daughter broke her arm while we were traveling in Bogotá, Columbia. She’s just fine and we still got to see the Amazon!

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Coverage available to U.S. residents of the U.S. states and District of Columbia only. This plan provides insurance coverage that only applies during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer or insurance agent or broker. Coverage is offered by Travel Guard Group, Inc. (Travel Guard). California lic. no.0B93606, 3300 Business Park Drive, Stevens Point, WI 54482, travelguard.com . CA DOI toll free number: 800-927-HELP . This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Insurance underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa., a Pennsylvania insurance company, with its principal place of business at 1271 Avenue of the Americas, 37th FL, New York, NY 10020-1304. It is currently authorized to transact business in all states and the District of Columbia. NAIC No. 19445. Coverage may not be available in all states. Your travel retailer may not be licensed to sell insurance, and cannot answer technical questions about the benefits, exclusions, and conditions of this insurance and cannot evaluate the adequacy of your existing insurance. The purchase of travel insurance is not required in order to purchase any other product or service from the Travel Retailer.

June 1, 2020

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

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

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• STA Travel is the “World’s Largest” Student and Youth travel company
• Exclusive STA Travel Blue Ticket™: Gives students flexible and affordable worldwide air travel
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Our Editor’s Review

STA Travel’s International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is awesome! Are you a parent?  Even if you are not under 26 & a full-time student or teacher, it is worth the money to buy one for your kids.  Kids can get one after they turn 12.  That way they you can save cash every time you shop for them or go to restaurants with them.  Kids are expensive, and we think this is a great way to save with discounts at Macy’s, the Apple Store and more.  ISIC cards are only $22* for a full year!   Go, get one here .   We also love STA Travel’s student deals for spring break. Their prices are hard to beat.

STA Travel Fees

The STA Travel Guarantee: If you find a cheaper student flight, they will match it PLUS give you an ISIC Discount card good for 1 year. You must be a full-time student and under the age of 26 to qualify for student discounts and the ISIC discount card. $50+ Fee to Change or Re-issue airline tickets.  $100+ Cancellation fee for airline tickets.

* Based solely on research done by TravelSiteCritic.com, these figures may be inaccurate and are subject to change.Verify policies with the website before you book. Please  be aware of airfare taxes & fees , applicable to any booking that includes airfare.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Read our  review disclosure  for more information.

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STA Travel Reviews

The ISIC cards that STA Travel issues can get you good deals, but they literally could not do a single thing for me without making a mistake. It ended up taking me MONTHS to get my ISIC student ID card and I ended up having to pay twice as much money to get it because they kept messing up. STA Travel was very slow at responding to me when I tried to contact them with my concerns, and when I brought it up with them, they offered a refund but then never gave it to me even after I emailed them twice and they said they would! I would agree with the comment above mine that said that STA Travel seems to take advantage of inexperienced students, which is not a very smart move considering students account for nearly their entire customer base. Like I said, the ISIC student ID card can get you some great deals abroad, but be prepared to get ripped off by STA in the process!

I wrote a lengthy report of what my boyfriend and I experienced when he purchased a ticket to Poland through STA Travel: http://bit.ly/statravelfail

In a nutshell, we contacted STA Travel to find out what we could do once the ticket was canceled and we were given a different answer every single time we called. We were also promised a full refund TWICE. They made numerous customer service mistakes in handling our situation and we ended up losing $1200. I would absolutely recommend booking flights directly through the airlines. STA Travel does nothing to help you out as a customer.

I felt that STA travel went out of their way to help me get a ticket for the right price. I found them friendly and symathetic to my situation and genuinly concerned if I had a problem.

STA is misleading and takes advantage of inexperienced student travelers. Initially, I had a good experience booking my Fulbright ticket to Tirana through STA. They understood Fly America requirements for US-sponsored aid programs and found me a flight that departed from Washington, D.C., as I had requested.

I realized when I was booking my flight that my travel plans might change. Makayla, the agent who booked my flight, informed me that changes to my ticket, if made prior to 30 days before the flight date, would be $50 plus the difference in fare. Sounds great, right? Flexibility for the student life style.

What Makayla did not mention is that the phrase “changes to your ticket” only applies to changes in date- not to changes in city of departure. Today, I tried to change the city of departure on my ticket from Washington, D.C. To Chicago. This was not permitted by United, the US carrier that STA had booked the ticket under; I was later told by customer service rep Ken and manager Megan that “It’s actually not really allowed to do rerouting at all anymore.”

In order to make the change that I had requested, my ticket would need to be refunded and then rebooked with a charge of $400. I asked if STA would consider waiving the $400 refunding fee, since I felt that I had been misled when I booked the ticket. Megan refused.

In conclusion, your STA ticket is not as flexible as your STA agent may make it seem. You ought to be cautious about the terms and conditions when booking through an agent, online or on the phone, if the flexibility of the ticket is what’s holding the appeal for you.

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Travel Insurance for Studying Abroad: 2024 Student Guide

See how much it would cost to cover your study-abroad trip below.

in under 2 minutes

Molly Corry is an English literature graduate, travel writer and PR professional specializing in travel advice. Based in Leeds, England, when she is not writing, she enjoys attending dance classes and exploring new travel destinations to get inspired for her next piece of content.

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

Securing a place on a study abroad program is a wonderful achievement. But amid the excitement of becoming an international student, remember to develop an insurance plan to protect yourself from any unexpected circumstances while you’re away from home.

Buying travel insurance for your extended stay overseas is a helpful way to give yourself and your family members peace of mind while you’re gone. In this article, we cover all you need to know to find the best travel insurance policy while studying abroad.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

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Should I Get Travel Insurance to Study Abroad?

Study abroad travel insurance serves as a safety net for international students during their time out of the U.S. Being in a foreign country, navigating unfamiliar healthcare systems and support networks can leave anyone feeling vulnerable. And it’s rare that anyone takes such a life-changing adventure in a foreign country with the thought of mapping out where the local health providers are and whether their medical coverage supplies financial reimbursement for doctor bills. That’s what makes a short-term study abroad health insurance policy so valuable.

Study abroad travel insurance primarily safeguards students against unforeseen situations like lost luggage, accidents or medical emergencies, providing them (and their parents) with a source of comfort through the duration of the journey.

With this coverage in place, international students are financially shielded against potential circumstances that could have a huge impact on their experience, allowing them to focus on their studies and enjoy their time abroad.

Benefits of Study Abroad Travel Insurance

Study abroad travel insurance delivers a range of valuable benefits for international students. Here are some key advantages to consider.

Medical Coverage

With study abroad health insurance, your medical expenses will be covered if you suddenly fall ill or get injured during your time away from home. This includes the cost of treatment, prescription medications, doctor’s appointments, overnight stays and emergency medical services.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

Your insurance will cover the cost of evacuation to the nearest appropriate hospital or medical facility if you have a serious medical emergency . You will receive the necessary care at no expense.

Repatriation

Study abroad insurance coverage also extends to repatriation, especially for an emergency evacuation. If you experience a severe illness, the insurance coverage will arrange and cover the expenses for a return home. This is also true if you suffered a fatal accident while overseas.

Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

Some international health insurance policies also cover pre-existing conditions . This means that medical expenses related to health issues you had prior to your trip will be included in your policy’s coverage. You will want to declare any pre-existing medical condition you have to your insurer before buying the policy.

24/7 Support

Study abroad international travel insurance gives students access to round-the-clock services like helplines. Whether your issue is a health-related concern or a travel query, you can rely on the 24/7 support offered by your insurance provider to help you.

Coverage Considerations for Students

As you explore different coverage options and the most suitable insurance policy for your study abroad experience, pay special attention to the following areas within the policy. You want to make the plan makes sense for an international student in several areas.

Healthcare Costs

Research the cost of healthcare services in the destination you plan to visit. Look at how much emergency services and hospitalization are. Then assess if the medical coverage limit of your insurance plan is sufficient.

Duration of Coverage

Your insurance plan should span the full duration of your study abroad program. Make sure the start and end dates match your full trip. If there’s a chance you could extend your trip, ensure your policy follows suit.

Pre-Existing Health Conditions Personal Liability Coverage:

Be mindful of any specific requirements or circumstances you may have, such as pre-existing health conditions or the need for mental health services. Ensure that your international student needs are covered by your policy.

Personal Liability Coverage

Check if the insurance policy includes personal liability coverage, which protects you if you accidentally cause harm to someone else or damage another person’s property. Personal liability coverage also often includes the cost of legal help.

Travel Document Protection

Look for insurance coverage that protects your travel documents. This ensures you’re covered if your passport , visa or identity cards get lost or stolen during your study abroad time.

Study Abroad Insurance vs. Regular Travel Insurance

Several key distinctions exist between travel insurance and study abroad coverage. The latter protects you for an extended period of time, but regular policies are designed for short business trips or vacations.

The medical care insurance included in the study abroad insurance policies covers events like repatriation and emergency medical evacuations . It often also covers pre-existing conditions, but you must tell your carrier about them before you buy the policy.

Study abroad insurance policies typically include specialized coverage tailored to educational travel. It can encompass tuition and fees, study interruption, academic materials and liability in academic-related situations such as internships , research and extracurricular activities.

You’ll also find that student travel insurance often offers added services specifically beneficial for students. It can include 24/7 access to an emergency assistance helpline, legal aid and support with issues specifically related to studying in a foreign country.

Finding the Right Study Abroad Travel Insurance

Navigating the process of finding the right study abroad travel insurance policy may initially seem like an impossible task, but with careful consideration and research, you can make an informed choice. One crucial aspect to focus on is understanding the exclusions outlined in travel insurance policies.

By doing so, you can ensure that your key needs and requirements are within the coverage scope of your travel insurance plans. It’s also important to have a clear understanding of the deductibles associated with the policy.

An insurance deductible refers to the amount of money you must pay before your insurance coverage comes into effect. Picking a higher deductible can lower your premium costs, but it also means you’ll be accountable for a larger part of expenses before your coverage begins.

Lastly, take time to research and evaluate the reputation of insurance providers. Read third-party reviews, check ratings and look for online feedback from previous customers. Learning from the experiences of past and current policyholders will allow you to gain valuable insights into the quality of service and make an informed decision on whether a particular international student insurance policy is a fit for you.

The Bottom Line

After successful enrollment as an international student, explore the health coverage and insurance options for your upcoming journey. Setting off to study in a foreign country can seem intimidating, but with the right student health insurance by your side, you can embark on your academic journey with confidence. You’ll be prepared for unforeseen circumstances and equipped to make the most of your valuable time as an international student.

Frequently Asked Questions About Study Abroad Travel Insurance

What is the cost of travel insurance.

The cost of travel insurance varies greatly depending on a range of factors such as the destination you’re heading to, how long you’ll be away, the coverage limits in place and the age of the traveler. The price can sit everywhere from ten to several hundred dollars per day.

Do you need health insurance to study abroad?

For those heading overseas for educational purposes, the need for medical insurance depends on the destination and the specific educational institution or program they will be joining.

While it may not be a mandatory requirement in all cases, having adequate medical coverage is strongly recommended as a precautionary measure.

How much is health insurance in the USA for international students?

The cost of health insurance in the U.S. for international travel depends on the duration of your stay and the kind of coverage you want. On average, the price sits somewhere between $500 to $1,000 per year.

How do I plan a semester abroad?

Organizing a semester abroad can be a lengthy process. You will want to begin your search early to give yourself enough time. Different academic programs have varying levels of flexibility regarding the courses you can take and the sequencing of those courses.

It is crucial to evaluate whether the courses offered in your desired study abroad program align with the curriculum of your major.

If you have questions about this page, please reach out to our editors at [email protected] .

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Sta travel falls into administration.

The travel company specialised in student travel, trips for young people, gap years and volunteer projects.

STA Travel Ltd had more than 50 shops in the UK and 500 jobs are at risk. It also traded as Bridge the World Travel.

The firm’s parent company, based in Switzerland, said the pandemic had “brought the travel industry to a standstill”.

Rory Boland, Which? travel editor, said: “Most STA Travel UK customers have found it impossible to get refunds in recent months for cancelled package holidays, often for very significant sums of money. Anyone with a booking, still waiting for a refund, or those holding a refund credit note, will be able to get their money back through the CAA’s ATOL scheme. Flight-only tickets booked with STA should still be valid. Passengers should contact their airline to check.

“The travel industry has endured a disastrous year, and many other companies will be on the brink of collapse. The government must urgently step in to provide much-needed support if this industry is to survive the next few months.”

What should STA Travel customers do?

ABTA has specific advice set out on its website for STA Travel customers. What customers should do next will depend on what holiday and travel arrangements they have booked and how they paid for them.

The majority of holidays sold by STA Travel were flight-inclusive packages and these are protected by the CAA’s ATOL scheme.

STA Travel also sold some packages which did not include flights and were protected by ABTA as well as holidays as an agent for other tour operators.

If you booked a package holiday through STA Travel and the holiday is provided by another tour operator, you’ll need to contact the tour operator named on your paperwork or ATOL Certificate. Your tour operator should be able to confirm that your booking will proceed as normal.

Your ATOL Certificate will say ’Package Sale’ in the bottom right hand corner, where an ATOL protected package has been booked through STA Travel with another tour operator.

If your booking included flights and was not with another tour operator, you will need to contact the CAA as your booking is protected by the CAA’s ATOL scheme. Your ATOL Certificate will say ’Package Sale’ in the bottom right hand corner.

If you booked a flight only with STA Travel with a scheduled airline, you will need to contact the airline about your booking. The airline is responsible for your booking and this should proceed as normal. Customers due a refund due to Covid-19 will need to make a claim with the airline concerned.

If you booked a non-flight package through a travel agent and not directly with STA Travel you should speak to your travel agent for advice.

If you booked a non-flight package holiday (for example, a cruise without flights) through STA Travel, it is protected by ABTA or by your credit or debit card issuer.

If you paid STA Travel directly using a debit or credit card you will need to submit your claim for a refund to your card issuer.

Customers that paid STA Travel by any other method or booked through a travel agent will need to submit a claim via ABTA . You will need to have all of your booking information and documents to hand when submitting your claim.

STA also operated as separate companies in a number of countries worldwide. Customers that booked with STA Travel businesses outside the UK will need to establish what protection may be available in the relevant jurisdiction.

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Get an ISIC Card

Getting Your International Student Identity Card is Quick and Easy

Full-time students 12 years and older* will find the ISIC (International Student Identity Card) card the ticket to discounts on transportation (like Amtrak), accommodation (like hostels and hotels), tours (all over the world), activities, shopping, and entertainment. Not only that, but as a traveler, ISIC cards will also give you access to basic sickness and travel insurance abroad, which is a pretty amazing deal.

The ISIC card costs $25, or slightly more if you want to upgrade your travel insurance policy with them, and is valid for one year from the date of issue. I think it's great value for money for students, and highly recommend getting one. There are so many discounts available to you through this card that you should make your money back within just a couple of months. 

Here's how to get your hands on an ISIC card: 

* You must be seeking a degree at an accredited institution.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: A few hours

What You'll Need Before Applying:

• One passport-sized photo (2x2 inches, with name printed in ink on the back)
• Payment of $25, whether you're applying online, by post, or in person
• Proof of student status
• Proof of age
• $3 or $20 for shipping, depending on whether you get your card expedited or not. 

A Step by Step Process for Getting Your ISIC Card

• You can either call 1-800-223-7986 (toll-free) to apply by phone through an STA travel agency, apply for an ISIC card online , or find your nearest brick and mortar ISIC issuing office. Many campus registrar or international education (study abroad) offices are ISIC issuers, so ask around on campus first, as that'll be fastest. If you don't have an ISIC card issuer on campus, I recommend applying online, as it's a much simpler process. 
• Gather one passport-sized photo (2x2 inches head and shoulders shot, with your name printed in ink on the back). You won't need to do this if you'll be applying online.
• Prepare payment of $25 if applying by mail, and add $3.00 if for shipping. If you are paying online, make sure you have your credit or debit card ready, or access to your Paypal account.
• Next, gather proof of student status: this could either be a photocopy of school ID that is valid this year, or a photocopy of your transcript/report card for this academic year. You can then either take this in to the office, send a photocopy if applying by mail, or scan it in to your laptop if you're buying your card online.
• Gather proof of your age: this could be a copy of your driver's license, your  passport , your state issued identification card or student identification card if it shows your age. A birth certificate won't work here, because your proof must show a current photo and your age.
• If you'll be applying by phone or online, be prepared to upload your documents to your laptop so you can either upload them to the online form or email them to the person you're speaking to on the phone. If applying by mail, send the $25 you have prepared and the above documents to STA Travel, INC. National Call Center, ID card Department; 585 N Juniper Drive, Suite 250; Chandler, AZ 85226.
• You're all done! Now you just have to wait for your ISIC card to arrive, and then you can start reaping the benefits. Standard shipping will take 15 business days and will cost you $3. If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the shipping to two days by paying $15. The ISIC card is great for scoring  student travel discounts , like the student travel discount on Amtrak, and you can also use it as international ID as you travel around the world.

This article has been edited and updated by Lauren Juliff . 

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in April 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

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

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

How we found the best travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers, top credit cards with travel insurance, methodology, best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

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

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

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

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

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at no extra cost.

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

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

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

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

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

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

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

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

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

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

Travel Guard by AIG

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

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

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

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

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

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

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

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

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

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

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

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

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

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

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

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

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

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

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

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

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

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

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

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

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

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

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

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

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

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

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

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

What else makes Seven Corners great:

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

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

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Special medical insurance for ship captains and crew members, international students and missionaries.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

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

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

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

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

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

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

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

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

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

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

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

What else makes TravelSafe great:

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

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

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

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

Trip cancellation

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

Trip interruption

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

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

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

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

Cancel For Any Reason

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

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

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

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

Lost baggage

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

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

Travel medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

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

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

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

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

Here is the list of travel cards offered by Chase that include various forms of travel insurance.

Having one of these in your wallet is a good start to protecting your travel investments and preventing expensive accidents; however, savvy travelers check card terms closely and sometimes supplement with a third-party policy, like from one of the companies above, to better protect themselves.

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Car rentals: Theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Trip interruption: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a few key questions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

In general, buying travel insurance

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

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

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 a similar note...

How STA can benefit your EPs, you, and @US

 STA Travel

AIESEC US is proud to be partnering with STA Travel once again! STA Travel is a flight booking platform that offers the lowest prices on flights (price-match guarantee) while allowing students to pay for their tickets later after booking them! AIESEC US officially recommends this platform to be used for booking all conference and exchange flights. So, please recommend this to your members and EPs whenever they need a flight! How to book through STA Travel:

Step 1: Go to http://www.statravel.com/solutions/aiesecus.htm (you MUST use this link)

Step 2: Use the search tool to find flights

Step 3: You MUST call 800-781-4040 or 800-777-0112 and say you are with AIESEC to get the cheapest ticket deal and take advantage of the Book Now, Pay Later

Step 4: If all is good, go ahead and book! If you saw a lower price elsewhere, call the number above or email [email protected] to take advantage of the price match guarantee.

Step 5: Get excited for your trip!

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STA Travel: Student Travel Agency

STA Travel are a company who focus on offering students in the UK great deals on travel. We have teamed up with the University of London's STA branch to offer students studying in London some brilliant exclusive deals with the very best student travel agency.

Claim any of the deals below.

Simply go in to the STA Travel ULU   branch and quote the promo code  FSULU to a member of staff

Exclusive deals:

- £20 off worldwide flights - 10% off travel insurance - Free cashcard - £2 off International Student Identity Cards (ISIC)  - £5 off UK day trips (Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor, Oxford, Wales, Isle of Wight, etc - £10 off overnight trips (Paris, Amsterdam, Edinburgh)  - 20% off Scotland and Ireland trips  - Extra discount on Hop-On, Hop-Off bus passes in Europe 

If you are worried about your English skills when booking a holiday, it is also worth noting that the ULU branch has a native Spanish speaker working full time (he is their dedicated International Language Schools consultant).

Small print: Offers valid only at STA Travel ULU. £20 off flights does not include online fares. Minimum flight value £250. Cash card must be purchased with a flight or tour product. Cash card value £10 to be paid at time of purchase and loaded with £10 at the time of register. Offers are subject to availability. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

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How to Get a Good Student Car Insurance Discount

Quick Answer

Full-time high school and college students may qualify for a good student discount on car insurance by maintaining at least a “B” average in school.

In this article:

What is a good student discount on car insurance, who qualifies for a good student discount on car insurance, other ways to save on car insurance.

Whether you're planning to get behind the wheel with your learner's permit or new license, you must first obtain auto insurance. While the cost of coverage for young drivers can cause sticker shock, a good student discount can help you save—if you're eligible. Here's what you need to know about qualifying for a good student discount and how much it can reduce your auto insurance rate.

Teens and young adults generally pay more for car insurance, on average, than any other age group. Their lack of experience and tendency to engage in risky behaviors like speeding or texting while driving translates into a higher rate of accidents when they get behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teens 16 to 19 years of age are the most likely age group to be involved in a car accident. Insurers charge more for the added risk.

There's good news and bad news when it comes to how your age impacts premium costs, however.

• The good news: High premiums don't last forever—as long as you maintain a clean driving record.
• The bad news: It'll take a few years to see a significant decrease in your premium based on your age.

In the meantime, there are other ways to save. One way young drivers can reduce the cost of car insurance is by qualifying for a good student discount. Some insurance companies view students who earn good grades as more responsible and reward them with reduced auto insurance premiums.

How Much Is a Good Student Discount?

The extent of the discount you may receive varies by insurer but generally ranges from 10% to 25% of the premium. Because insurance companies offer different rates and discounts, it's best to shop around to see where you can get the best deal.

The criteria insurers use to determine who qualifies for a good student discount varies by company, but you generally need to:

• Meet the age requirements. Different insurers have different age cut-offs, but you typically need to be between 16 and 24 to qualify for a good student discount.
• Be a full-time student. Full-time high school and college students are usually eligible.
• Maintain a minimum grade-point average (GPA). Insurance companies typically require students to maintain at least a "B" average, or 3.0 GPA, to earn the discount.

How to Get a Good Student Discount on Car Insurance

If you qualify, you can get a good student discount by following these steps.

• Contact your insurer or insurance agent. You can usually do this by phone or email.
• Show proof. You typically need to give the insurance company a copy of your report card or transcript verifying your GPA.
• Purchase coverage. Choose the types of car insurance coverage you want to purchase and select your policy limits.
• Get the discount. Your insurer will apply the good student discount to your policy.

A good student discount isn't the only way to save on coverage. Here are some other things you can do to lower your car insurance costs .

• Stay on your parent's policy. Remaining on your parent's policy for as long as you're eligible is almost always cheaper than purchasing a separate policy.
• Ask about other discounts. Insurance companies typically offer many discounts. Some, like the distant student discount, are meant specifically for students. Others, such as multi-policy, autopay, paperless billing and more, apply to everyone. Check with your insurer to make sure they apply all relevant discounts to your premium.
• Improve your credit. Paying your bills on time isn't only important if you need a loan. It may also affect your auto insurance rates. Most states allow insurers to consider credit-based insurance scores in their rate calculations, and people with higher scores generally qualify for lower rates.
• Take a class. Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who take a driver's education course.
• Increase your deductible. Policies with higher deductibles typically cost less than policies with lower deductibles. However, when you opt for a higher deductible, you have to pay more upfront if you need to file a claim. It's important to consider the potential out-of-pocket costs with the savings on your policy.
• Stay safe. Drivers with clean records pay less for coverage than drivers with a history of moving violations. Maintaining a clean record can help you save. Some insurers also offer discounts to drivers with vehicles that have certain safety features and higher vehicle safety ratings.
• Drive less. One of the factors insurance companies consider when deciding rates is how much you drive. Drivers who spend less time on the road typically get lower rates than road warriors. You may also want to consider pay-per-mile car insurance to help you save.
• Shop around. Because every provider has its own proprietary method for calculating premiums, rates can vary significantly between insurers. Comparing car insurance rates can help you get the lowest premium you qualify for.

The Bottom Line

Making the honor roll won't just get you a sticker to put on your bumper. It can also help you snag a lower rate on your auto insurance. You won't get rock-bottom rates as a young driver, but combining a good student discount with other saving strategies can help you get more affordable coverage. Experian's car insurance comparison tool can help you find a policy that meets your needs at a price that fits your budget.

Don’t overpay for auto insurance

If you’re looking for ways to cut back on monthly costs, it could be a good idea to see if you can save on your auto insurance.

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Looking for ways to save?

Check your auto insurance rate—you could be overpaying.