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Home » North America » USA » Guide To USA Travel Insurance – ALL You Need To Know

Guide To USA Travel Insurance – ALL You Need To Know

For many travellers, (myself included) a visit to the US is (and was) the dream trip of a lifetime and with damn good reason. The USA is afterall, more like an entire world packed in one sprawling country. From the glitzy sidewalks of Hollywood, the razzle-dazzle of Vegas all the way to the vast expanse of Arizona, the country offers an unmatched canvas of experiences.

The USA is often seen as the land of dreams and opportunities. But the fact remains that chasing those dreams comes with a financial cost and carries some risk.

While the USA isn’t generally considered a high-risk travel destination, it does come with its set of UNCERTAINTIES. From the notorious health care system (which drain your wallet faster than a New York minute) to unexpected natural calamities like hurricanes in Florida or earthquakes in California – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

With all of this in mind, let’s delve deeper into why you should be considering travel insurance for your American escapade ! I’ll set out exactly what I did to stay insured when I travelled the US to help you do the same.

Month to month payments, no lock-in contracts, and no itineraries required: that’s the exact kind of insurance digital nomads and long-term traveller types need. Cover yo’ pretty little self while you live the DREAM!

Do I Need Travel Insurance For USA?

What should travel insurance in usa cover, anything else to consider about usa travel insurance, what is the best usa travel insurance, how to choose the right usa travel insurance for you, final thoughts on usa travel insurance.

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Healthcare in the USA

Healthcare in the USA is synonymous with two things: world-class quality and sky-high costs. Unlike most nations, the U.S. doesn’t have any universal healthcare system. Instead, it operates on a mix of private and public facilities and while the quality of care is often top-tier, the costs can be shockingly high for the unprepared. 

A routine visit to a General Practitioner can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 without insurance, and that’s just for the consultation.

Any additional tests, medications, or procedures can raise this amount significantly. An emergency room visit without insurance? You’re looking at an average of $1,400, and this can soar depending on the treatment required.

I am sure you have all heard the shocking horror stories of diabetic patients paying $1k per month for insulin and of professionals being denied life-saving cancer care because they don’t have the bucks. In fact, an estimated 66% of American bankruptcies are driven by unpayable medical bills.

For European tourists used to subsidized healthcare or the benefits of the EHIC, the American system can be a shock. Even Canadians, neighbors to the USA, often ensure they are adequately covered before crossing the border due to the stark differences in healthcare costs.

Thus, when in the USA, having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is not just a recommendation – it’s an absolute necessity. 

Crime in the USA

With its diverse landscape and vast population, the USA experiences a range of crime rates varying by region and city.

While metropolitan areas like New York City or Los Angeles have seen significant drops in major crimes over the years, they’re not entirely free from incidents, especially opportunistic ones like pickpocketing in touristy spots.

Venturing into cities like Chicago, Miami, or New Orleans? Well, it’s no secret that these great but troubled cities boast some of the highest homicide rates on earth (rivalling active war zones and failed states). In some US cities, it’s essential to remain vigilant,  to always be aware of your surroundings, and even to totally avoid certain neighbourhoods known for higher crime rates.

However, this doesn’t mean you’ll face danger at every corner. The vast majority of tourists (this one included) enjoy a trouble-free visit. But like the unexpected rainstorm that hits during an outdoor concert, it’s always good to be prepared.

And this is where a comprehensive USA travel insurance policy comes into play. From lost belongings to theft, having insurance ensures you’re travelling safe and not left out of pocket even if your pocket is picked.

Issues Facing Travelers in the USA

The USA is a land of extremes. From blistering heat waves in the Southwest deserts to freezing blizzards in the Northeast (remember the news presenter who tossed a glass of water in the air and it froze?) , the country presents a variety of natural challenges.

Hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, wildfires in California, or tornadoes in the Midwest can and do disrupt travel plans in a heartbeat. Take this summer’s Maui wildfires for example…

Then there’s the more mundane but equally frustrating: airline delays, lost luggage, or even the bankruptcy of a booked tour operator. These inconveniences, while not life-threatening, can impact your travel budget and itinerary significantly.

So, whether it’s Mother Nature showing her fierce side or a logistical mishap throwing a wrench in your plans, having travel insurance can ease the stress and financial strain.

Common Activities in the USA

The USA is a playground for thrill-seekers and adventurers. Skiing in the Rockies, surfing in Hawaii, hiking the national parks , or even just renting a car for that epic road trip along Route 66 – the activities are endless.

However, while these adventures certainly make for unforgettable memories (unforgettable at least senility kicks in), they can also present unexpected risks.

Not all travel insurance policies cover activities deemed “extreme” or “high risk” (and you may be surprised what this includes) so if you’re planning to hit the ski slopes in Aspen or go rock climbing in Utah, it’s vital to ensure your insurance policy covers these specific activities. Nothing kills the adventure buzz like a hefty medical bill or replacement costs for damaged equipment.

Road Tripping : The classic American road trip , whether it’s along the iconic Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, or through the picturesque landscapes of the Rockies, is a must-do.

However driving in unfamiliar territories, unpredictable weather, wildlife on highways, and long hours behind the wheel can lead to accidents or vehicle breakdowns. At this stage we feel its important to point out that the costs of fixing a broken arm (a fairly common car crash injury) can easily run to $15k in the US whereas the average price of medical insurance policy is $5 per day.

Ensure your travel insurance covers rental car damage and has provisions for roadside assistance. If you plan on renting a Harley Davidson, make sure your policy covers motorcycles up to the relevant CC and that your licence is recognised by the insurer.  

Oh and also be sure to check VERY carefully about various driving and DUI state laws if you are taking a road trip as you do not want to fall foul of state troopers.

Hiking and Trekking : From the rugged Appalachian Trail to the scenic pathways of national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite, the USA is a hiker’s paradise.

But be careful, exposure to wildlife (some of those big old Bears are not as cuddly as they look), sudden weather changes, or simply getting lost can turn a day hike into a perilous adventure. Proper outdoor gear and preparation are essential, and having insurance that covers rescue or medical emergencies is advisable.

Skiing and Snowboarding : Destinations like Aspen, Lake Tahoe, and Vail draw winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

But alas skiing and snowboarding injuries are all too common (if you go to any given ski chalet, you will find at least one guest in bandages or using crutches) . Whether it’s collisions, falls, or altitude-related issues, it’s crucial to ensure your insurance covers winter sports and associated medical treatments.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

In our experience, most USA travel insurance policies will probably include the following:

Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses

• Luggage and Personal Property

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation

Non-medical emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, trip interruption.

We feel that these are the most common key terms to look out for when you are comparing different travel insurance policies . We will examine each one of these to see what they actually mean.

Emergency Medical costs are perhaps the single most important aspect of any travel insurance policy and this is incredibly and especially pertinent in the USA. If you have an accident or become seriously ill with a tropical illness, you may want to rest easy knowing that the medical costs and doctors’ bills will be taken care of.

Many of you may have never seen a medical bill. However, we have seen too many for our liking and believe us, they can get very expensive very quickly. A friend of mine was once charged $10,000 for a leg infection in Costa Rica. Even 2 days in a Thai hospital cost him nearly $2,000.00! Thankfully he was insured on both occasions.

Pre-existing medical and health conditions may not be covered under this or they may be covered for an additional premium.

Ideally, Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical insurance should offer at least $100,000.00 of coverage but some run into the millions. If you are visiting the US, then do have a serious think about this.

Baggage and Personal Property

Luggage and Personal property coverage covers the value of your bags and what’s in them. It is most commonly used for lost luggage and many policies also extend this to cover “on the ground” theft which comes in very useful if you are robbed once you reach your destination.

The limits on this do vary between policies. However, the maximum value rarely exceeds $1000 with a maximum item value between – $250–$500.

This is probably enough for many travellers. However, if you travel with a lot of electrical gear (laptop & camera), or are packing golf clubs or something, you may also wish to think about taking out a separate gadget cover.

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Emergency evacuation covers the cost of sending you back to your home country in a hospital. Let’s say that the above-mentioned tropical illness is a very nasty one, and the decision is taken to send you home for further treatment; this will take care of the high costs of flying you home on a drip.

Repatriation is the cost of sending your remains home in the rare event that you die on your trip. Repatriation costs are not a burden I would want to leave to my family. Whilst this is thankfully rare, I do come across Facebook or “Go Fund Me” campaigns for somebody’s body to be flown home.

Non-medical Emergency Evacuation is when you have to be evacuated because of some sudden crisis.  Examples are outbreaks of war/civil unrest and natural disasters that decimate infrastructure such as the South Asian Tsunami of 2006.

In more recent times, the Corona COVID-19 outbreak created the biggest international emergency evacuation situation ever. (FYI – it straddled both the medical and non-medical evacuation boundaries).

Emergency evacuation insurance covers the costs of having to book an emergency flight home ( which can be seriously expensive) and will also cover accommodation costs if you end up being flown to a random, “safe” country rather than going straight home.

Having to cancel an adventure that you were truly excited for is painful. However, being left out of pocket just makes it worse.

Trip Cancellation cover can help you to recover the ‘non-refundable costs’ of your trip such as flight and hotel costs. Visas are also in this category.

To clarify, you can’t claim this simply because you changed your mind about the trip or fell out with your travel buddy. Proper cancellation reasons are things like sickness, family emergencies, bereavement, natural disaster and war – you get the gist.

Trip Interruption is when something goes wrong, even interrupts, and you have additional costs to pay because of it. One example, when your pre-paid hotel falls down and you are forced to book another one. Another example is when your flight home is cancelled and you need a few extra nights at your hotel.

The above are what we consider to be the basic, bare-bones of travel insurance policies. However, some policies do offer a few more aspects to them.

The very best USA travel insurance policies may also include the following:

Adventure Sports and Activities

Please note that adventure sports and activities are not covered by all travel insurance policies. The definition of adventure sports and activities really does vary between providers, but for example, can include:

• Trekking (altitude is usually a factor here)
• Canoeing and Kayaking
• Swimming with Whales
• Cheese Rolling…

If you are going to be doing anything remotely physical or outdoorsy on your trip, then it may be sensible to check that your insurance provider is covering it. Broken jaws hurt enough without having high medical bills attached to them.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Accidental Death & Dismemberment cover doesn’t cover any travel-related expenses as such but instead, it basically provides you (or your next of kin) with monetary compensation in the event that something happens to you.

If you die, your loved ones get a payout. Or, if you lose a digit, YOU get a payout. I mean, how much is a finger really worth to you anyway?

It’s kind of like having a bit of life cover attached to your travel insurance.

“Well dear, I’m afraid there is good news and bad news. The bad news is that your parents both died on their trip to the USA. The good news is that you get $10k!”

Gear and Electronics Cover

Some insurance policies do cover electronic gadgets but others do not. Those that do, sometimes charge an additional fee and they also usually limit the maximum item value.

If you only travel with a phone or a tablet then your travel insurer may well cover it entirely. However, if you’re traveling with a laptop , then you may wish to consider obtaining gadget cover.

Personally, I have had separate gadget cover on my MacBook Pro for years.

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Whilst they may all seem the same, not all insurers are the same. Some travel insurers offer lower prices than others but others offer higher coverage amounts. Some are kinda infamous for not paying claims whilst others are celebrated for being fair and helpful.

Travel insurers – always the same yet always different. It isn’t possible (or legal) for us to say that any single of them is the best, or is “better” than the others as insurance is a very complex product and any policy takes into account a whole lot of data and a wide set of variables.

Just bear in mind that the “best” travel insurance always depends on where you are going, when you are going there and ultimately upon you and your needs. The best travel insurer for one trip, may not be the best for a different trip.

Below, we will introduce a few of the many travel insurance USA providers on offer. These are all firms that we have used ourselves over the years.

SafetyWing is a relatively new player in the travel insurance space but is already making big waves. They specialise in cover for digital nomads and they offer open-ended cover on a monthly subscription basis. Because they primarily cover digital nomads, they don’t offer much in the way of trip cancellation or delay so do take that into consideration.

However, SafetyWing really excels on the health side of travel insurance, covering dental and some complimentary treatments. In fact, they even allow young children to be covered for free. 

If cancellation and delay are not a concern for you or if you will be spending some considerable time on your trip, then consider SafetyWing travel insurance .

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $250,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $3000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $100,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $10,000
• Trip Cancellation -$0
• Trip Interruption – $5000

If you need more information or want to get a quote, then you can visit the website for yourself.

Talk about efficient and effective, Heymondo are up-to-date when it comes to combining travel insurance with technology in the digital world of 2024.

What truly sets them apart is their assistance app offering a 24-hour medical chat, free emergency assistance calls and incident management. How reassuring is that?! They also have a convenient and complication-free way to make a claim straight from your phone.

Medical expenses are covered up to $10,000,000 USD so try not to damage yourself anything over that amount… If you’d like travel insurance that operates with that little extra swiftness and ease, give these guys a go.

They offer multiple options – single trip, annual multi-trip and long stay. We’ve focused on single trip, but do check out the others and find what fits your next adventure.

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical/Dental Expenses –$10,000,000 USD
• Baggage and Personal Property – $2,500 USD
• Repatriation and Early Return – $500,000 USD
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $10,000 USD
• Trip Cancellation – $7,000 USD
• Trip Disruption – $1,500 USD
• Covid 19 coverage included in all plans

If you need more convincing, click our link below to get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance plan!

Columbus Direct

Named after one of history’s greatest (and most divisive explorers), Columbus Direct also specialise in insuring adventure-hungry explorers like us. They have been providing award-winning insurance for 30 years. What we like about this plan is that it does cover small amounts of personal cash. However, Gadget Cover is not available.

Columbus Direct actually offers a number of different travel insurance plans. Below we have focused on 1 of these and have set out the coverage amounts for the Globetrotter plan.

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $1,000,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $750
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $1,000,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $0
• Trip Cancellation -$1,000
• Trip Interruption (“Catastophe”) – $750

World Nomads

World Nomads have been insuring backpackers for (x ) years now. World Nomads specialise in backpacker travel insurance and their policies cover long-way travel on one-way tickets, trips to multiple countries and a whole lot of adventure activities.

These guys are well used to dealing with backpackers like us, and they are regularly recommended by travel bloggers and industry insiders. We love them.

They offer 2 different policies depending on your needs. The Standard Plan is standard & the Explorer Plan covers a whole host of high-risk, high-fun activities. World Nomads are also one of the few travel insurers who will write you a policy after starting your trip. The one downside for us is that they don’t cover Pakistan.

Let’s look at the maximum coverage amounts with both the Standard & Explorer plan.

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses -$100,000/$100,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $1000/$3000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $300,000/$500,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $25,000/$25,000
• Trip Cancellation -$2500/$10,000
• Trip Interruption – $2500/$10,000

If you want more info or to get a quote then visit the World Nomads site for yourself and take a look.

Iati Seguros

Iati Seguros is a Spanish-based travel insurance company that we have personally used and loved. You will notice that they provide competitive cover amounts for the key travel insurance areas, and are competitively priced. So far we have heard nothing but good things about them.

They also offer multiple ones, but we have focused on the Standard Plan although we wholly encourage checking out all plans for yourself to identify the best one for your needs.

Standard Plan

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $200,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $1000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – 100% of cost
• Trip Cancellation -$1,500
• Trip Interruption – 100% of cost

Insure My Equipment

Insuremyequipment.com does precisely what the name suggests. They are an online insurer for expensive equipment (like camera gear & gold clubs). You can use them to get specific pieces of gear insured but please bear in mind this policy is only for your specified gear.

An Insure My Equipment policy works well in combination with other travel insurance. Insure My Equipment policies are an excellent choice for professionals and backpackers with more $0000’s worth of camera equipment, expensive laptops or fishing rods.

I also know a few travelling musicians and DJs who use these guys so you are in cool company.

Choosing the right travel insurance for your backpacking trip in the USA is like choosing a wife or husband: it is something only you can decide (unless you’re Indian in which case your parents may help out ) .

To identify the best insurance for the USA, work out how much your trip is worth, how much equipment you plan to take and what activities you intend to engage in. And of course, you need to ask yourself how much you can afford to pay for cover, and how much you can afford to be out of pocket in the unlikely event of a travel mishap.

Sometimes, the cheapest US travel insurance will be enough and sometimes it will be worth spending a bit more. Hopefully, this post will help you to decide (and if not, then I just wasted 5 hours of my life writing it.)

The USA, in all its sprawling glory, offers a truly unmatched travel experience. Its vast landscapes, cultural hubs, and iconic landmarks make it a bucket-list destination for many if not most travellers. But as with any grand adventure, it comes with its fair share of risks and uncertainties.

But listen up guys, travel insurance isn’t just about playing it safe; it’s about ensuring peace of mind as you embark on your Grand American Odyssey.

Whether it’s the bustling streets of New York or the serene trails of the Smoky Mountains, journey confidently knowing you’re protected every step of the way. And remember, we have lots more USA-related content to guide you on your travels. Safe journeys!

Aiden Freeborn

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9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 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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The best travel insurance policies and providers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel insurance providers

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

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

AIG Travel Guard

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

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

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

Preexisting conditions

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

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

Standout features

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

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

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

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

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

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

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

Is travel insurance worth getting?

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

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

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

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

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

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

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

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

What are the different types of travel insurance?

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

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

Should I buy travel health insurance?

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

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

How much does travel insurance cost?

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

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

When and how to get travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel medical insurance

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

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

International travel insurance

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

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

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

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

Your own illness.

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

Natural disasters.

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

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

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

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

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

Baggage and personal belongings

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

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

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

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

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

24-hour assistance

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

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

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

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

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

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

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

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

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

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

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

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

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

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

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

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

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

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

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

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

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

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

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

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

Travel insurance comparison sites

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

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

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

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

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

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

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

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

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

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

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

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

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

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

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

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

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

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

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

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

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

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

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

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

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

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

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

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

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

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

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

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

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

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

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

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

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

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

Keep reading

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

What is travel insurance?

How much is travel insurance?

Is travel insurance worth it?

What does travel insurance cover?

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

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

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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 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.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 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.

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The Definitive Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

The single trip travel insurance guide.

There are currently well over 500 different single trip travel insurance policies to choose from. Selecting the right policy can seem a little overwhelming, so you will be glad to know that we have reviewed every one for you, ranking them by cover, sums insured and premium.

This review guide will help you understand what to look out for when picking single trip travel insurance and how to choose the right policy for you and your family.

The Single Trip Travel Insurance Market

What is a single trip travel insurance, what does single trip travel insurance cover.

• When should I buy single trip travel insurance

Can you take out single trip travel insurance after leaving?

Why get single trip insurance, who is a single trip travel insurance policy for, how much does single trip travel insurance cost, what affects the price of single trip travel insurance, what are the benefits of single trip travel insurance, what are the drawbacks of single trip travel cover, what are the exclusions under single trip holiday insurance, what extras can i include under a single trip travel.

• Tips when comparing single trip travel insurance.

Despite the current economic climate and the looming results of Brexit, there has been a steady increase in the number of visits abroad, which have risen by 31% since 2010, a trend which has been forecast to continue.

78% of all trips abroad were to Europe, with Spain being the most popular European destination (26% of all trips). North America (including Canada) was the second most visited destination with 6.5% of all UK overseas visits being made to the region. The number of flights leaving UK airspace has also increased from 46 million in 2013 to 61.7 million in 2017.

Short breaks and city trips, particularly to European destinations is a rising trend aided by budget airlines and an avalanche of online providers offering cheaper last minute deals. Trips typically last no more than four nights. This has led to a change in holiday habits, indicating that consumers are taking a greater number of shorter overseas breaks rather than one long annual holiday.

The benefit of a single trip policy is that you are only paying for the specific time you are away.

As mentioned above single trip travel insurance covers a wide range of unknown situations, such as:-

• Cancellation/Curtailment/Abandonment - The need to cancel, curtail or abandon your trip, as a result of death, bodily injury, illness, redundancy, foreign office directive, natural disaster or catastrophe.
• Emergency Medical Expenses – The cost of medical treatment and associated expenses (such as repatriation) required as a result of an illness or injury caused whilst you are abroad.
• Baggage Cover – The loss, theft, or accidental damage to your luggage, personal possessions or money.
• Missed Departure – additional expenses to assist you in reaching your destination if you have missed your original departure.
• Delayed Departure – Compensation if your flight is delayed for 12 hours or more.
• Delayed Baggage – The cost of essential items if your baggage has been lost or delayed.
• Personal Accident – Financial compensation disability or death as a result of an accident.
• Personal Liability – Protection if you injure a third part or damage their property.
• Legal Expenses – Should you need to sue for compensation.
• Hijack/Mugging – Compensation should you be hijacked or mugged whilst abroad.

When should I buy single trip travel insurance?

Your single trip policy should be purchased the moment you book your holiday or trip. Even if you are not planning to travel for several months, the moment that you take out a policy, you will be covered for cancellation of your trip.

For example: -

You or a relative become sick or have an accident and are unable to go on the trip.

You might have been made redundant and can't afford to go on the trip and you didn't know about the redundancy when you booked.

You could be forced to cancel your holiday due to bereavement.

Despite the need to book insurance immediately after you have reserved your trip, it is estimated that 35% of consumers actually take out travel insurance 0-1 days before they leave. Whilst no-one wants to cancel their trip abroad, at least insuring early will mean the Insurer will refund some or all of the travel costs.

Yes . If you have already left and forgotten travel insurance, there are several companies who will still provide cover. This is on the understanding that nothing has occurred at the time of taking out the cover which has led to a claim or may lead to a potential claim.

Obviously, the Insurer would not pay for your belongings if you’ve already lost them, medical bills if you’ve already incurred them, or any other events known to exist at the time of arranging cover which might give rise to a subsequent claim.

We have listed a few examples of companies who offer this service.

• True Traveller
• Globelink Travel Insurance
• Alpha Travel Insurance

To prevent fraud, there is normally no cover in the first 48 hours after you’ve taken out a policy, except where you suffer an injury as a result of an accident.

Whilst the last twelve months has seen an increase in the sale of single trip travel insurance, it is estimated that anywhere between 1 million to 3 million travellers didn't bother to take out a policy before they left for their trip abroad. Those customers who didn't take out cover cited the cost, poor past experience, or ignorance as the main reasons for not insuring themselves.

Travel Insurance has never been more competitive. A single trip policy covering a few days away can be purchased for just a few pounds. There is no good reason for you to travel abroad without Insurance. It doesn't make any financial sense NOT to take out travel insurance.

If you are planning a trip, even if it is only to Europe for a few days, you shouldn't just rely on the European Health Insurance Card . A serious injury may still leave you with a large medical and repatriation bill, having your luggage stolen or having to cancel the trip altogether, can leave you thousands of pounds out of pocket. For the cost of a round of drinks, you can travel knowing you are fully protected, should the unthinkable happen.

Most single trip policies can be taken out by an individual. Many policies offer a discount for couples (who live together) and families consisting of a single or two parents and up to eight children. In many cases children can travel free of charge

Asda Travel Insurance will include children at no extra cost under their family policy

Insurewithease.com will cover children for free under all their single trip policies

Some single trip policies will allow groups of individuals (who are not necessarily related) to cover themselves under the same policy (as long as they are travelling together and to the same destination). The majority of these will cover up to ten individuals and offer a discount.

A few companies will cover more than ten individuals such as TopdogTravelInsurance.com

Most policies require you to insure for a minimum of three days with a maximum period of 12 months (some companies will cover you up to 24 months), useful if you are planning to travel around the world for a year, or need to spend a few months with relatives. (There are specialist backpacker policies for longer term travel, but the cover isn't usually as comprehensive).

What you’ll pay for travel insurance is affected by a number of individual factors, such as:

Your age - In general the younger you are the cheaper your insurance is going to be. However some Insurers charge more for the under 25's, so it's important to compare costs. Price increase steadily until you hit your 60's when there is a huge step up in cost, in some cases by as much as 100%.

For travellers over the age of 75 the choice becomes less and the premium even higher. There are several companies who have no age limit on single trip travel insurance such as Holidaysafe.com , and Allclear Travel Insurance , who also specialise in travel insurance with Medical Conditions.

The level of cover - Like other companies, we rate travel insurance policies on a scale of 1 - 5, (with 5 being the highest rating) but unlike other companies, we take a much stricter approach to our award structure. We believe a 5 star policy should be just that, a policy that has the most comprehensive and highest levels of cover, combined with the lowest excess.

Of course these policies come with a higher price tag, but you can still find five star rated policies that are extremely competitive. For Example Holidaysafe's five star rated Premier Plus policy costs only £39.23 for a two week vacation anywhere in the world.

Four star policies are still worth considering but may not have the absolute highest levels of cover. The cheapest four star rated policy based on the same duration and destination as the example above is through Explorer Travel Insurance and their four star rated Platinum policy costing £28.37 .

If you don't need the highest levels of cover, three star policies are an option. Cover tends to meet the industry averages, but may be missing features like gadget cover, or end supplier failure and the excess may be higher.

You need to pay more attention and compare policies carefully if you are choosing a three star policy, to make sure your requirements are still met, but there are some great bargains to be had. Using the same criteria as above, Alpha Travel Insurance provides the cheapest option in respect of their three star rated Alpha 50 ST policy costing £22.61 .

One and two star policies are for those who only require the bare minimum cover for example just medical expenses and aren't worried about cancellation, baggage cover, missed or delayed departure. The advantage is that premiums are extremely cheap. If you are one of those people that hasn't in the past bothered with travel insurance, you should at the very least opt for a one or two star rated policy that covers emergency medical expenses, like CheaperTravelInsurance's bronze policy .

The type of holiday - two weeks sunbathing by the pool is going to cost less than two weeks skiing. Any holiday which includes adventurous activities such as skiing, scuba diving, mountain climbing, or trekking will cost you more and in most cases will be a paid option in addition to the standard premium.

Your Destination - Trips are normally split into three or four (sometimes five) regions. Trips to Europe France Germany etc. will be the cheapest. Taking advantage of the European Health Insurance card means that medical bills are lower for the Insurer.

Some Insurers charge a higher premium to include Balearic countries (Mallorca for example), as they tend to operate a higher level of private healthcare which costs more.

Some Insurers use a different rating structure if you are visiting either Australia or New Zealand. Whilst medical costs tend to be higher than European countries, there are reciprocal healthcare arrangements in place between the UK and these countries, known as MEDICARE and the medical cost to the Insurer is reduced.

The last two regions are the rest of the world excluding the USA and Canada and worldwide including the USA and Canada. In general terms, the further you travel the more expensive the policy will be. The cost of medical treatment in the USA and Canada, whilst excellent, is notoriously expensive and naturally premiums charged reflect this.

The duration of your holiday - Simply put, the longer you are abroad, the higher the cost of travel insurance.

Medical Conditions – if you have a pre-existing medical condition, chances are your premium will be higher. However there are some good travel insurers, who specialise in travel insurance with Medical conditions such as All Clear Travel Insurance . Don’t be tempted not to disclose any conditions, as failure to declare a pre-existing medical condition could invalidate your insurance. Read our guide on the rules of taking medicine abroad .

• You only pay for the exact time you will be away.
• The cover you choose will be tailored to that specific trip. For example if you have recently purchased an expensive laptop, you can make sure it’s specified. You can also make sure specific activities are covered which may not be the case with annual travel insurance .
• Most annual policies have a single trip limit of 31 days. If you are travelling abroad for a longer period, a single trip policy would be the only option.
• If you are only planning to go abroad once per year, a single trip policy should be cheaper than an annual one.
• It may be more expensive to purchase single trip policies if you are planning more than one trip per year.
• Every time you take a trip abroad, you would have to spend additional time re-comparing quotes and cover.
• You must remember to take out a single trip policy every time you book a trip abroad.
• Prices for travel insurance could increase over the course of a year, whereas with an annual policy you have already paid the premium for twelve months cover.
• Loss or theft of, or damage to baggage, including valuables, gadgets and money if they are left unattended at any time (including a vehicle, or whilst in the care of a carrier), unless they were locked in a safe or left in your locked accommodation.
• Loss or damage caused by your baggage being delayed confiscated or detained by customers or any other authority.
• Losing or not having the correct documents (passport, visa, inoculation certificate, travel tickets) that you need to travel.
• Travelling to a country or specific area, which has been advised against by the Foreign and Commonwealth office, or World Health Organization.
• Travelling, to take part in a professional sport, or professional entertaining.
• Changing your plans, returning home or cancelling a trip, because you no longer want to travel, didn’t enjoy the holiday or simply changed your mind.
• Placing yourself in unnecessary danger, for example jumping or diving from a pier, wall, bridge or rock, including tomb stoning, or shore diving.
• Climbing on top of or jumping from a vehicle. Climbing or jumping from a building or balcony.
• Drinking too much alcohol, or taking drugs.
• Claiming for costs that were paid for using any airline mileage reward scheme.
• Claiming for illness caused as a result of a pre-existing medical condition, which you didn’t declare when taking out the insurance.
• Planning an adventure holiday which includes an activity such as skiing , scuba diving, white water rafting or mountaineering and you haven’t told the Insurer.

In addition to the standard cover, you are in many cases, able to extend a policy to include further activities such as Golf or Cruise holidays , and the additional costs associated with a wedding abroad.

Travel Insurance may also be extended to cover business trips , including business equipment and car hire excess. For those who plan to trek or mountaineer, cover can be extended to include the cost of search and rescue.

Tips when comparing single trip travel insurance

You should think about the type of trip you are taking (business, relaxing holiday, weekend break, adventure holiday), the overall cost, how much luggage you are taking with you.

Emergency Medical Treatment - The vast majority of policies cover £10 Million and upwards, but you should go for at least £5 Million.

Cancellation – Make sure that the maximum exceeds the total cost of your holiday, including hotel or villa, flights, or cost of travel and pre-paid excursions.

Baggage – Add up the total cost of personal possessions that you will take with you on your trip and make sure this is under the policy limit. Also pay attention to the single article limit, the valuables limit, and the limit for gadgets like laptops, mobile phones etc. Make sure you are not carrying more than you are insured for.

Money and Cash – Check the policies inner cash limit. Don’t carry more cash than the limit allows, because if it is stolen or you are mugged, you won’t be insured.

Legal Expenses – It is always good to know that you have any legal costs covered, so go for a policy that includes it as standard.

Personal Liability – Accidents happen and sometimes caused by you, so choose a policy that includes at least £1 Million, preferably £2 Million of Personal Liability cover.

Activities – Think about the activities you plan to do whilst on your trip and check the policy to ensure they are either automatically included (even common activities like swimming or snorkelling) or that you have paid the correct additional premium to include them.

Excess – Some policies don’t charge any excess, but if you can stand to take a small hit in the event of a claim, then premiums can be reduced if you elect a large voluntary excess.

Finally if you are using a comparison website, don’t just settle for the cheapest, because the protection offered may not be enough to cover your holiday. Carry out your research carefully. If you want an unbiased opinion use our free travel insurance comparison and rating tool to help you narrow down your search.

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What is A Single-Trip Travel Insurance Policy?

Get single-trip travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations and medical expenses for as little as $85.

in under 2 minutes

with our partner, Faye

Josh Lew is a travel journalist and writer based in the midwestern U.S. He has been active for the past decade, covering airlines, international destinations and ecotourism for sites like TravelPulse and TreeHugger. He currently contributes to content writing agency World Words.

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.

Single-trip travel insurance plans can help you manage the risks associated with travel, including trip delays , cancellations and medical emergencies. Even if these unwanted events don’t occur on your vacation, single-trip travel insurance provides peace of mind knowing you have financial support if needed.

The best travel insurance providers offer comprehensive coverage to help you avoid sunken cancellation costs and get back on track after a trip interruption. Read on to learn more about single-trip travel insurance and when to purchase a policy.

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What Is Single-Trip Travel Insurance?

Single-trip travel insurance covers one trip, with coverage extending from the time of purchase to the date you return home. Single-trip plans are best for casual travelers or those who do not travel internationally often. Frequent travelers may find more value in a multi-destination or annual travel insurance plan.

Single-trip travel insurance protects you from certain risks while traveling. Policies typically reimburse costs related to:

• Trip cancellation (including your flight and hotel)
• Emergency medical treatment or evacuation
• Travel delays and interruptions
• Lost or damaged baggage
• Stolen valuables, like a camera or laptop

Trip interruption and cancellation coverage are limited to unforeseen and uncontrollable events such as natural disasters, unexpected illnesses, a death in the family or an accident. You won’t get reimbursement if you change your mind or break up with your traveling companion before the trip — unless you purchase additional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage .

Insurers list coverage exclusions so you are aware of limitations when buying a policy. The fine print will also include coverage limits or the maximum amounts the policy pays for a covered event.

Single Trip Travel Insurance vs. Annual Travel Insurance

Most insurance providers offer multi-trip or annual policies that provide coverage for more than one journey. This option provides more value than single-trip plans in certain situations.

Here are situations in which a single-trip policy may be the better option:

• If you travel frequently but rarely go abroad and want coverage for international travel.
• If you are planning a once-a-year family trip and want cancellation coverage to protect your investment.
• If you are traveling for a special occasion and want protection so you can travel elsewhere if the trip gets canceled.
• If you might require medical coverage while traveling abroad and want to avoid paying for treatment out-of-pocket.

Annual policies are better in some circumstances, including:

• Frequent international travelers may be able to get a better rate with annual coverage.
• Digital nomads and expatriates living abroad for work often need health coverage provided by an annual plan.
• Anyone with more than two trips planned during a calendar year may get better value from multi-trip policies.

In most cases, the decision comes down to how much time you spend abroad and the number of trips you take during a given year.

Who Should Get Single-Trip Travel Insurance?

Single-trip travel insurance can benefit individuals, families or groups who don’t travel frequently and want to cover a specific trip. A travel insurance policy can offer financial protection for trips that require a significant investment.

Many travelers purchase single-trip policies to cover medical expenses. According to the U.S. Department of State , American health insurance does not usually work overseas. If you need emergency care abroad, you will have to pay out of pocket unless you have a travel medical plan.

Here is a closer look at the advantages and drawbacks of single-trip travel coverage:

Benefits of Single-Trip Travel Insurance

Single-trip travel protection provides certain benefits to travelers.

• Flexibility: You can purchase a policy with specific coverage and limits based on what you need for your trip without paying for extras you won’t use.
• Protection from unexpected events: Cancellation and interruption coverage can help you avoid losing your travel investment or spending extra because of an accident, disaster or another event beyond your control.
• Peace of mind: Even if you do not make a claim, travel insurance provides peace of mind knowing you have financial support if you encounter an emergency abroad.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association , travelers use their coverage more than other insurance services — 17.3% of people who purchase trip coverage file a claim. In contrast, only 7.3% of homeowners utilize their house insurance.

Downsides of Single-Trip Travel Insurance

There are a few negatives to be aware of when purchasing travel insurance.

• Redundancies: You may already have some travel coverage through a credit card or health insurance. Check what coverage you have to avoid paying for double protection if you purchase comprehensive insurance.
• Age limits and pre-existing conditions: Insurers may deny coverage based on your age or pre-existing medical conditions . Check your policy for coverage exclusions if you have an existing health condition. Your provider may require you to purchase a waiver before your trip to qualify for coverage.
• Coverage limits: Policy maximums can limit payout amounts. In general, cheaper single-trip policies have lower maximums. Make sure your policy covers the amount you expect to spend for your trip.

Reading the fine print of your insurance policy can help you avoid these downsides and get the most out of your single-trip insurance benefits

Choosing the Right Single-Trip Travel Insurance

One of the advantages of single-trip insurance is the ability to select the best policy for each journey. You can choose the best travel insurance provider based on how well a policy meets your needs for your specific trip plans.

Here are factors to consider when shopping for single-trip insurance:

• Trip duration: The cost of a single-trip policy often depends on how long you will be outside the U.S. For example, a two- or three-week trip is likely to cost more than a week-long vacation.
• Total trip cost: Calculating the cost of pre-booked portions of your trip can help you determine how much coverage you need. Your insurer will require you to specify a trip amount to obtain a quote.
• Your location and destination: Insurance costs can vary based on where you live. For example, coverage for a traveler from New York may cost more than the same policy for someone in Virginia.
• Deductibles: A policy deductible is what you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles mean lower premiums but force you to pay more out of pocket if you file a claim.

Single-trip plan costs vary depending on the above details. We recommend you get quotes from different providers, compare conditions, research exclusions and verify coverage limits before purchasing a policy. Look for a policy that meets your coverage and budgetary needs without too many extras.

Which providers should you choose? Here are five major travel insurance providers that offer single-trip plans:

• International Medical Group (IMG) offers comprehensive and travel medical care plans.
• Seven Corners has a range of insurance products, including single and multi-trip plans.
• AIG has various travel insurance plans, including coverage for last-minute travel.
• Trawick International offers comprehensive plans, including specialized coverage for students and adventure travelers.
• Travelex sells both domestic and international travel insurance policies.

It pays to get as much information as possible about each insurer so you can make an informed decision about your travel coverage purchase. You can use our quote tool to get started:

What Does Single-Trip Travel Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive single-trip insurance covers the following:

• Medical emergencies and evacuations: Single-trip travel health insurance reimburses you for medical treatments if you fall ill or have an accident. It also pays for medical evacuation or transport home if you need long-term or specialized care.
• Trip interruptions: This insurance pays for accommodations and transportation if you experience extended delays due to a disaster, conflict or other uncontrollable events.
• Delayed or lost luggage: This coverage allows you to replace lost or delayed luggage due to mishandling by your airline or other transportation provider.
• Trip cancellations: This part of the policy reimburses you for nonrefundable, prepaid portions of your trip that get canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Repatriation: If you pass away on your trip, this insurance pays to have your remains returned home.
• Other coverage: Some policies protect against device or equipment theft or offer additional coverage for certain activities, like rental car usage or travel excursions. While comprehensive policies may include this coverage, other providers may allow you to purchase protection as a policy add-on.

Additional Considerations and Optional Coverages

Keep in mind that policies may have age restrictions or limit coverage for customers with pre-existing conditions. Restrictions vary by provider, so it is best to research insurers individually to understand specific limitations and requirements. However, some insurance companies allow customers to purchase pre-existing medical condition waivers.

Insurers use a similar approach for other risks, such as adventure sports like scuba diving or rock climbing. Some providers allow you to purchase add-ons to increase medical insurance coverage limits or add protection for sporting equipment and other gear.

Finally, CFAR coverage is an add-on that reimburses a portion of trip cost without requiring you to provide the rationale for your cancellation. CFAR coverage offers an alternative to standard trip cancellation insurance, which outlines specific reasons that qualify you for reimbursement.

How Much Does a Single-Trip Travel Insurance Plan Cost?

Travel insurance costs can vary based on your trip details and coverage needs. We gathered quotes from multiple providers to give you an idea of what single-trip coverage might cost for different travelers.

• Two 40-year-old travelers from New York going to Jamaica for two weeks in November with a $2,500 itinerary can expect to pay $134 with IMG Global . The policy covers trip cancellation, $250,000 in medical expenses and $500,000 in evacuation insurance.
• A 30-year-old traveling from Florida to Germany for a week in October with a trip worth $2,500 would pay $86.44 for a plan from Trawick International . Coverage includes $150,000 in emergency medical expenses, $1 million in evacuation insurance and full cancellation coverage.
• A family of four going to Mexico for two weeks in December would pay $124 per person for Travelex Insurance . The policy includes cancellation and interruption coverage , $50,000 per person in medical insurance and $500,000 in evacuation coverage.

The above examples include prices from midrange plans that offer comprehensive coverage.

Is Travel Insurance For One Trip Worth The Cost?

Single-trip insurance is worthwhile because it protects you from common travel risks, including cancellations, delays and medical emergencies. These plans can also provide peace of mind knowing you will have financial support if the unexpected happens during your trip. While single-trip policies are best for travelers looking to cover one excursion, frequent travelers may benefit more from multi-trip coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Single-Trip Travel Insurance

Does single-trip insurance cover travel cancellation.

Most single-trip plans include trip cancellation coverage . With this insurance, your provider agrees to cover a portion of nonrefundable costs if your trip gets canceled for a covered reason. Check your policy for coverage details.

Can I buy a single-trip travel insurance policy if I’ve already left for my trip?

Policies for purchasing coverage vary based on the company. Many companies require you to purchase insurance before departure to receive the full benefits. But some companies, especially those specializing in travel health insurance, allow you to buy a policy at any time. However, travel medical insurance often has a waiting period of up to 72 hours before coverage starts. This wait ensures you don’t buy coverage after you are already sick.

Does single-trip travel insurance coverage include baggage loss?

Most travel insurance policies include coverage if you experience a baggage delay or an airline loses your luggage . You may also have coverage for luggage theft or damage up to a certain amount.

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

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Travel Insurance

Medical travel insurance, seniors travel insurance, europe travel insurance, worldwide travel insurance, coronavirus travel insurance, travel insurance for the usa.

• Unlimited medical emergency expenses¹
• Up to £10K cancellation cover
• 24/7 emergency medical helpline

Covered 27 million+ travellers

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Looking for travel insurance for a USA trip? Whether you’re planning to shop in New York, gaze at the Grand Canyon, or take in some history in D.C. we’ve got the right USA travel insurance policy for you.

What is USA travel insurance and why do you need it?

The USA has long been one of the most popular holiday destinations for UK travellers. However, the States has some of the most expensive emergency medical care in the world . Meaning things can get costly if something unexpected happens.

Don’t worry, our USA travel insurance has got you covered:

• Buy it, then get on with enjoying your adventure: With cover for hospital expenses, personal belongings and legal costs, you can relax. What’s more, our 24-hour emergency assistance team will be available to call, day or night, if you need them  
• Cover for your pre-existing medical conditions: We will consider all pre-existing medical conditions. Let us know some details and we will send you a quote. Find out more about medical travel insurance or contact our helpful team   
• Tailor your policy to you and your trip: Our policies already have over 100 sports and activities covered. Plus we have extra cover available for things like extreme sports , winter sports , cruises and golf . Or if you’re looking to take the whole family away, we’ve got family US travel insurance policies  
• Go for a single trip or annual policy: If you’re planning on going away more than once this year, an annual travel policy might save you time and money. If this is your one getaway of the next 12 months, our single trip policies may be best for you.

Cover varies based on the policy you buy. Our policy wording includes details of what is and isn’t covered and other terms and conditions.

Get a quote for travel insurance to the USA today:

What does InsureandGo’s USA travel insurance cover?

Our policies come with over 100 sports and activities included and our 24-hour emergency medical assistance team at the end of the phone. Find out what else is covered with our USA travel insurance:

What’s covered?

All our travel insurance to USA policies include:

• Medical and hospital expenses cover
• Cover for cancellation of your trip
• Over 100 sports and activities covered (see your policy wording for a full list of activities)
• Personal belongings and baggage cover
• Personal money, passports and travel documents cover
• Accommodation cover
• Legal expenses cover
• Delayed departure cover
• Personal accident cover
• Our 24-hour emergency assistance team , available to call, day or night

Find out about our optional add ons for activities like extreme sports , winter sports , cruises and golf . 

We will consider all pre-existing medical conditions, find out more about medical travel insurance . The excess and amount of cover available varies depending on the level of USA travel insurance you buy. Make sure you have a look at our policy wording to see the full terms and conditions, including what is and isn’t covered.

What’s not covered?

We aim to provide as much cover as we can on our policies. However, there are some situations no travel insurance will cover. For example:

• You cannot cover events or reasons to claim which took place before you booked the trip or purchased insurance. Insurance exists to cover unexpected events outside of the insured’s control
• Claims which are less than the excess for that section of cover. For example, you cannot claim a £40 lost item if your baggage excess is £60
• All of our travel insurance America policies include cover for cancellation of your trip, but there may be some exclusions. For example, you won’t be covered to cancel if you simply decide not to go 

To check the policy exclusions and what is and isn’t included, take a look at our policy wording .

The best travel insurance for your USA trip

Looking for the best travel insurance for USA visitors? We have a wide range of policies to choose from:

• Single trip USA travel insurance : Perfect if you’re only planning one trip this year. You tell us where you’re going and for how long and we give you a tailored quote
• Annual travel insurance : If you’re going away more than once in the next 12 months, you could save time and money with multi-trip travel insurance. Pick our worldwide option, covering the USA, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, and you can cover your trip to America plus any other trips for the year
• Family travel insurance for the USA : Holiday cover for every member of the family, all under the same policy – simple! Cover every generation, from kids to grandparents (and even great grandparents) 
• Optional sports and activity cover: Our travel insurance for the USA includes cover for over 100 sports and activities at no extra cost. Meaning you can get up to more on your holiday. If you’re looking to do something a little different, we offer extra cover for extreme sports , winter sports , cruises and golf

Take a look at the specific policy wording for more information on what is and isn’t included.

How to book our travel insurance for the USA

When looking for the best travel insurance for the USA, we know the options can be overwhelming. That’s why we like to keep things simple:

1. Tell us about you and your trip

Tell us when you’re off, who you’re looking to cover and a little info about any pre-existing medical conditions. We will use these details to ensure we provide you with the right level of cover for your trip.  

Start your quote today online or call our team:

2. We’ll send you your quote

Get your quote and you can either go ahead and book or save the details for whenever you’re ready to buy your policy.

“Whether it’s a return visit to your favourite place or a one-off trip of a lifetime, the USA is a bucket list destination! With high healthcare costs in the US if something goes wrong, it’s important to make sure you’re covered before setting off on your holiday. We can help make sure you get the right cover for you, get in touch with our team now .” Letitia Smith – Travel Insurance expert

USA travel insurance with pre-existing medical condition cover

At InsureandGo, we’ll consider covering all medical conditions. Our online medical screening process is simple and we’ll quickly be able to give you a quote.

A pre-existing medical condition is any illness or condition that has occurred before you take out an insurance policy. Your policy won’t always cover you for existing medical conditions as standard and you’ll need to declare them before you buy it. 

Medical costs in the USA are famously expensive and foreign visitors don’t get free healthcare, even if you come from a country with a system like the NHS. Also bear in mind that A&E (or ER, as they call it in the USA) isn’t free either. So in an emergency situation the costs can quickly add up. If you’re considering travel medical insurance for the USA, it’s sensible to check your cancellation, repatriation and medical evacuation cover. For more information, read our travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions page and refer to policy wording .

Frequently asked questions on travel insurance for the USA

Do you need travel insurance for usa.

Although travel insurance isn’t mandatory for the USA, it is highly recommended that you take out a policy. If something goes wrong on your trip and you don’t have a policy to cover you, you could rack up high costs that leave you out of pocket. America is known for having some of the world’s most expensive emergency medical care. Buying a single trip or annual multi-trip policy is important to make sure you’re covered.

Do I need a visa for the USA?

The UK is part of the visa waiver programme with the USA, meaning UK citizens with a valid passport don’t need a visa to travel to the USA. You need to get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) , which allows travellers up to 90 days in the USA.

Do you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and travel insurance to visit the USA?

Although it’s called a ‘Global’ Health Insurance Card, a GHIC doesn’t cover the USA.  It is mainly for use in EU countries. The best way to ensure you’re covered if something unexpected happens on a holiday to America, is by purchasing a travel insurance policy.  

Remember, even if you are travelling to a country covered by the GHIC scheme, it is recommended that you also buy travel insurance. This will protect you from any costs that aren’t covered by the card. Find out more information about EHIC and GHIC cards on the NHS website .

How much is travel insurance for USA?

The price of your travel insurance to the USA will depend on various things. These include: 

• Where you’re travelling to and if you’re visiting any other countries
• How long you will be staying 
• If you want a single trip or annual multi-trip travel insurance policy  
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Level of policy cover
• Any policy add-ons

Get your quote today and get ready for your trip to the USA!

What travel insurance do I need for the USA?

Make sure you choose travel insurance that covers the USA, as some policies do not. You should also keep these pointers in mind:

• It’s important to check the level of medical cover. The government advises at least £2 million of medical cover when travelling to the USA. Our policies start at £5 million
• When choosing US travel insurance, think about the cost of your holiday and what you’ll be taking with you. You need to know you’re covered if anything happens
• Travelling as a family? Cover everyone under one policy with our family holiday insurance
• Consider whether you want a single trip or annual multi-trip policy  

Why is travel insurance to the USA so expensive?

Travel insurance to the USA can be more expensive than for Europe. This is because of higher claims costs if anything unexpected happens. Medical treatment can be very expensive in the USA and it can also cost a lot if someone needs emergency transport back to the UK. This means policies that cover the US can be a bit more costly.

Can I buy USA travel insurance after booking my trip?

Have you left buying your USA travel insurance until the last minute? Don’t worry! We make getting covered quick and simple, so you can focus on looking forward to your holiday. Get your quote now.  

You’re able to purchase a last minute US travel insurance policy on the same day as you head off. As long as you haven’t been through customs or left the UK yet. Just remember, we can’t cover you for any potential claims that you’re aware of before you buy the policy (e.g. a cancelled flight). For more information, read our policy wording .

Does Mexico come under the USA in travel insurance?

If you’re visiting Mexico or another country on your US trip, there are two easy ways to ensure you’re covered:

• If you’re buying a single trip policy , just tell us the countries you’ll be visiting and we’ll give you a quote to cover your whole trip
• If you’re after an annual multi-trip policy , make sure you pick our Worldwide cover including USA, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

What if I have to go to the hospital in the USA?

It’s important that you have travel insurance for the USA to cover unexpected issues while you’re away. 

Medical costs in the USA are famously expensive. Most hospitals are large and privately run. If your medical emergency isn’t serious enough to warrant a visit to the hospital, you may be able to contact them and ask for a local physician. They may be able to offer cheaper treatment.

If a hospital discovers you have no insurance, they may transfer you to a welfare hospital if one is nearby. However, there aren’t many available, especially in more rural areas, and they may have very long waiting times. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, visit our page on travel medical insurance for more information. Or you can contact us online .

Can InsureandGo help if I need medical treatment while in the United States?

Our US travel insurance comes with access to our 24-hour emergency assistance team. Meaning there will always be someone here to help you if you become ill or are injured while abroad.

You can give our team a call any time, day or night, as part of your USA travel insurance policy.

Who can buy USA travel insurance?

All our USA travel insurance policies are available to UK residents. This means:

• Someone who has been living in the UK or the Channel Islands for at least six of the last 12 months
• They must be in the UK at the time of purchase
• All trips must start and end in the UK

Unfortunately, we can’t provide cover to anyone who doesn’t fit this description.  Get a quote online or browse our policy documents for more information.

Frequently asked questions

If you’ve got more questions about how our USA travel insurance works, or more general travel insurance queries, have a read through our FAQs .

Travel advice

Our travel advice section offers handy tips and guides to specific countries, from what documents you need to what you might visit while you’re there.

Travel insurance reviews

If you want to know what our customers think of us, and why they rate us so highly, have a read through some of the reviews they’ve left us.

• Unlimited emergency medical expenses available on Black level policies.
• Based on 2,050 responses, correct as of 22/01/2024

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip
• Safety & Insurance

What Is A Single Trip Travel Insurance

Published: December 18, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Melitta Lindeman

Introduction

Understanding the Essence of Single Trip Travel Insurance

Traveling is an exhilarating experience that opens doors to new cultures, cuisines, and adventures. Whether you're embarking on a solo journey, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, the thrill of exploration is often accompanied by the need for security and peace of mind. This is where travel insurance steps in to offer a safety net, ensuring that unforeseen circumstances do not derail your plans or jeopardize your financial well-being.

Travel insurance comes in various forms, tailored to meet the diverse needs of globetrotters. One such option is single trip travel insurance, a popular choice for individuals or families planning a one-time excursion. This type of insurance is designed to provide coverage for a specific trip, offering protection against a range of potential mishaps that could occur before or during your travels.

Single trip travel insurance is a valuable asset for those seeking comprehensive protection during their journey. From trip cancellations and medical emergencies to lost luggage and flight delays, this insurance serves as a reliable companion, ensuring that travelers can navigate through unexpected challenges with confidence. Let's delve deeper into the nuances of single trip travel insurance, exploring its coverage, benefits, and the process of acquiring this essential safeguard for your upcoming adventure.

Defining Single Trip Travel Insurance

Single trip travel insurance is a specialized form of travel insurance that provides coverage for a specific journey, typically from the departure to the return home. It is tailored for individuals, couples, or families embarking on a one-time trip, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a business excursion, or an extended vacation. This type of insurance offers financial protection and assistance in the event of unforeseen circumstances that could disrupt or impact the travel plans.

Essentially, single trip travel insurance is designed to mitigate the risks associated with traveling, offering a safety net that extends beyond the conventional travel bookings. It encompasses a wide range of potential mishaps, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, lost or delayed baggage, and travel delays. By securing single trip travel insurance, travelers can navigate through unexpected challenges with confidence, knowing that they have a reliable support system in place.

One of the key features of single trip travel insurance is its flexibility and customization. Travelers have the option to tailor their insurance coverage based on their specific needs and the nature of their journey. This could include adding extra coverage for adventurous activities, pre-existing medical conditions, or valuable belongings, ensuring that the policy aligns with the unique aspects of the trip.

Moreover, single trip travel insurance offers peace of mind by providing 24/7 assistance and support services, such as emergency medical referrals, legal assistance, and travel guidance. This proactive approach aims to alleviate the stress and uncertainties that may arise during travel, allowing individuals to focus on creating lasting memories and experiences.

As the travel landscape continues to evolve, single trip travel insurance remains a fundamental component of a well-planned and protected journey. Its comprehensive coverage and personalized approach make it an indispensable asset for travelers seeking assurance and security during their adventures.

Coverage Provided

Single trip travel insurance offers a comprehensive range of coverage to safeguard travelers against various unforeseen events and emergencies. The specific coverage provided may vary depending on the insurance provider and the chosen policy, but it typically includes the following key elements:

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: This coverage reimburses the non-refundable expenses if a trip is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons, such as illness, injury, or unforeseen circumstances.
• Emergency Medical Expenses: Single trip travel insurance includes coverage for emergency medical treatment and hospitalization while traveling abroad, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care without incurring exorbitant costs.
• Travel Delay or Missed Connection: In the event of a delayed or missed connecting flight, train, or cruise due to reasons beyond the traveler’s control, this coverage provides reimbursement for additional expenses incurred, such as accommodation and meals.
• Baggage and Personal Belongings: Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal belongings during the trip, offering financial compensation to replace essential items and mitigate the inconvenience caused by such incidents.
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: In the case of a medical emergency or a natural disaster, this coverage ensures that travelers receive assistance in arranging emergency evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility or repatriation to their home country.
• Personal Liability: Protection against legal expenses and compensation for accidental injury or damage to third parties or their property, offering financial security and legal support while traveling.

Furthermore, single trip travel insurance may include additional optional coverage, such as adventure sports coverage for activities like skiing, scuba diving, or bungee jumping, as well as coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, trip curtailment, and rental car damage.

By encompassing a diverse array of coverage options, single trip travel insurance provides travelers with the assurance that they are protected against unforeseen events and emergencies, allowing them to embark on their journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Benefits of Single Trip Travel Insurance

Single trip travel insurance offers a multitude of benefits that contribute to a seamless and secure travel experience. Understanding these advantages can help travelers appreciate the value of this essential safeguard and make informed decisions when planning their next adventure. Some of the key benefits of single trip travel insurance include:

• Financial Protection: By providing coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unforeseen mishaps, single trip travel insurance safeguards travelers from incurring significant financial losses, ensuring that their investment in the trip is protected.
• Peace of Mind: The assurance of having comprehensive coverage and 24/7 support services alleviates stress and uncertainties, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their journey without worrying about potential mishaps.
• Emergency Assistance: Single trip travel insurance offers access to emergency medical referrals, travel guidance, and support services, ensuring that travelers receive timely assistance and expert advice in challenging situations.
• Customizable Coverage: Travelers have the flexibility to tailor their insurance policy to suit their specific needs, whether it involves adding coverage for adventurous activities, pre-existing medical conditions, or valuable belongings, thereby ensuring that the policy aligns with the unique aspects of the trip.
• Convenience and Accessibility: The process of purchasing single trip travel insurance is straightforward and easily accessible, often available online or through travel agencies, providing a convenient means of securing essential protection for the journey.
• Risk Mitigation: By mitigating the risks associated with travel, including medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and unforeseen events, single trip travel insurance enables travelers to navigate through challenges with confidence, knowing that they have a reliable safety net in place.

Moreover, the benefits of single trip travel insurance extend beyond financial and logistical aspects, encompassing the invaluable peace of mind and security that come with knowing that one is prepared for the unexpected.

Ultimately, single trip travel insurance serves as a vital tool for travelers to safeguard their well-being, investments, and experiences, ensuring that they can embark on their journey with confidence and tranquility, regardless of the destination or the nature of their travel plans.

How to Purchase Single Trip Travel Insurance

Securing single trip travel insurance is a straightforward process that offers travelers the flexibility to choose a policy that aligns with their specific needs and preferences. The following steps outline the typical process of purchasing single trip travel insurance:

• Evaluate Your Needs: Before purchasing travel insurance, assess the specific requirements of your trip, including the destination, duration, activities planned, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Understanding these factors will help you determine the level of coverage needed for your journey.
• Research Insurance Providers: Conduct thorough research to identify reputable insurance providers that offer single trip travel insurance. Compare the coverage options, policy features, and customer reviews to select a provider that meets your criteria for reliability and comprehensive protection.
• Choose the Coverage: Select the coverage options that best align with your travel plans. Consider factors such as trip cancellation, medical expenses, baggage protection, and any additional coverage required for specific activities or belongings.
• Obtain Quotes: Request quotes from multiple insurance providers to compare premiums, deductibles, and coverage limits. This step allows you to make an informed decision based on the cost-effectiveness and value offered by each policy.
• Review the Policy Details: Carefully review the policy documents, including the terms and conditions, coverage exclusions, and limitations. Ensure that you understand the scope of coverage and any requirements or restrictions associated with the policy.
• Purchase the Policy: Once you have selected a suitable single trip travel insurance policy, complete the purchase process through the insurance provider’s website, a licensed agent, or a travel agency. Provide the necessary information and payment details to finalize the policy acquisition.
• Receive Confirmation and Documents: Upon purchasing the insurance policy, you will receive a confirmation of coverage along with the policy documents. It is essential to keep these documents easily accessible during your travels for reference in case of emergencies or claims.

It is important to note that the process of purchasing single trip travel insurance can vary based on the insurance provider and the channels through which the policy is obtained. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking platforms offer the option to purchase travel insurance as part of the reservation process, providing added convenience for travelers.

By following these steps and exercising due diligence in selecting the right policy, travelers can acquire single trip travel insurance that offers comprehensive protection and peace of mind throughout their journey.

Single trip travel insurance stands as a vital asset for individuals, couples, and families embarking on a one-time journey, offering a safety net that extends beyond the conventional aspects of travel planning. The comprehensive coverage, flexibility, and peace of mind provided by this form of insurance make it an indispensable component of a well-protected and secure travel experience.

By understanding the essence of single trip travel insurance, including its coverage, benefits, and the process of acquisition, travelers can make informed decisions to ensure that their journeys are safeguarded against unforeseen events and emergencies. The financial protection, emergency assistance, and customizable coverage options offered by single trip travel insurance contribute to a seamless and secure travel experience, allowing individuals to explore new destinations with confidence and tranquility.

As the travel landscape continues to evolve, single trip travel insurance remains a fundamental tool for mitigating the risks associated with travel, ensuring that individuals can navigate through unexpected challenges without compromising their well-being or financial stability. The convenience of purchasing single trip travel insurance, coupled with its accessibility and tailored coverage options, empowers travelers to embark on their journeys with the assurance that they are prepared for the unexpected.

Ultimately, single trip travel insurance serves as a reliable companion, offering peace of mind and security throughout the duration of a specific journey. Whether it’s a leisurely vacation, a business trip, or an adventure-filled escapade, this form of insurance provides travelers with the confidence to embrace new experiences and create lasting memories, knowing that they are protected by a robust safety net.

By recognizing the value of single trip travel insurance and taking proactive steps to acquire comprehensive coverage, travelers can embark on their adventures with the freedom to immerse themselves in the wonders of travel, knowing that they have a reliable support system in place, ready to assist them in navigating through the unexpected twists and turns of their journey.

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Introduction to Aegis Travel Insurance

• Coverage Options
• How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy
• Customer Service and Claims Process

Compare Aegis Travel Insurance

• Why You Should Trust Us

Aegis Travel Insurance Review 2024 (Formerly GoReady)

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.

No one likes thinking about the ways things can go wrong, but the truth is that anything can happen. Travel insurance can protect you from financial loss if something goes wrong while you're away and even cover pre-paid trip costs if you must cancel your trip for a qualified reason.

There are many different types of travel insurance, so it's important to choose the right policy for your needs. And Aegis General Travel Insurance offers a variety of policies to suit different travelers. Keep reading to find out how Aegis Travel Insurance performs and whether its coverage makes sense.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a CFAR upgrade add-on on certain plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comprehensive insurance plans include generous coverage for baggage loss, plus protection from hurricane and other intense weather-related issues
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive pricing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Online complaints about claims not being paid and non-responsiveness
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not all more expensive plans include CFAR coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Dropping rating with AM Best
• Annual and multi-trip plans available
• All plans include pandemic coverage for COVID-19
• Coverage for weather-related delays, cancellations and other incidents

Aegis General Insurance Agency provides several types of insurance such as homeowners, life, and pest insurance. Aegis Travel Insurance added travel insurance to its list of offerings, when it acquired April Travel Protection in early 2021, operating as GoReady.

Now Aegis General, the Pennsylvania-based company offers five single-trip insurance plans and two multi-trip plans that have a wide range customization options including CFAR and sports coverage. The plans also offer a diverse range of coverage from its more comprehensive VIP and Pandemic Plus options to its Trip Cancellation, which offers low-cost coverage for cancellations and trip interruption. The Aegis Travel Insurance Trip Cancellation plan is even included in our guide on the best affordable travel insurance .

That said, Aegis Travel Insurance has a relatively complicated claims process that has received mixed reviews from customers. You're required to get in contact with a claims agent to start the process, which can be difficult.

Coverage Options with Aegis

Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance offers a variety of plans from which to choose. Picking the right one will depend on your trip and whether you want single-trip coverage or something like an annual plan. The answer to the question of what does travel insurance cover varies.

If you're looking for a single-trip plan, you'll have a few different choices:

Aegis Annual Multi-Trip Plans Available

Annual/Multi-Trip Preferred plan – This annual travel insurance plan is ideal for those who take multiple trips per year that are less than 31 days. It provides comprehensive coverage for an unlimited number of trips, including important types of protection like travel delay ($750), trip inconvenience ($200), baggage coverage ($1,000), and baggage delay ($200). In addition, the plan includes $100,000 per person for medical emergency assistance and transportation. The Preferred plan is not available for New York residents.

Annual/Multi-Trip Primary plan – This policy is ideal for you if you're a frequent flyer who goes on three or more trips each year or travels for up to 90 days at a time. It includes baggage coverage ($1,000), baggage delay ($100 per person, $300 policy limit), and $30,000 in initial coverage for emergency accident and sickness medical expenditures.

Aegis Additional Coverage Options

Some Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance plans offer the option to upgrade for improved coverage. For instance, Aegis Travel Insurance's Choice plan includes $250,000 in emergency medical assistance and transportation — but with an upgrade, you can buy up to double that amount ($500,000).

There are add-ons, too, like CFAR (cancel for any reason) coverage , which reimburses you 75% of your prepaid trip expenses, or "cancel for work reasons." which covers 100%. CFAR coverage is only available for the Choice, Pandemic Plus, and Cruise plans.

Depending on the play you choose, other upgrades include coverage for rental car damage, missed port of call, sporting equipment coverage, and more.

Aegis Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for the plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate Aegis Travel Insurance's coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance quotes:

• Trip Cancellation: $43
• Choice: $53
• Pandemic Plus: $105
• Cruise: $112

Premiums for Aegis Travel Insurance plans are between 2.7% and 4.2% of the trip's cost, well below the average cost of travel insurance. It's also relatively cheap compared to many of its competitors

Aegis Travel Insurance provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• Trip Cancellation: $59
• Choice: $70
• Pandemic Plus: $140
• Cruise: $142

Once again, premiums for Aegis Travel Insurance plans are between 3.6% and 3.8%, below the average cost for travel insurance.

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New York for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following Aegis Travel Insurance quotes:

• Trip Cancellation: $438
• Choice: $404
• Pandemic Plus: $372
• Cruise: $620

Premiums for Aegis Travel Insurance plans are between 6.5% and 9.2%, which is roughly in line with the average cost for travel insurance. This is to be expected, as travel insurance is often more expensive for older travelers.

Aegis Annual Travel Insurance Cost

Quotes for Aegis Travel Insurance' annual plans are as follows for a 35-year-old from Iowa:

• Preferred Plan: $145
• Primary Plan: $198

How to Purchase and Manage Your Aegis Policy

To purchase an Aegis Travel Insurance policy, you'll have to obtain a quote on its website. You'll need to be able to provide information about yourself and your trip including: 

• Destination(s)
• Total trip cost
• Age of traveler(s)
• Primary email
• Travel dates
• Date of deposit
• State of residence

Aegis Travel Insurance gives you quotes on all five of its policies on one page. Once you make a decision, you can also add any available upgrades to your policy, such as pre-existing condition waivers, CFAR coverage, rental car damage, and higher coverage limits. 

How to File a Claim with Aegis

To start a claim, you need to first contact a claims agent over the phone at 866-753-0945 (option 3), sending an email on Aegis' website , or through its live chat service. They'll help you determine which benefits you should file for and supplementary documents you should provide. Your files may even be pre-screened to ensure you have the correct information.

You'll receive an email that gives you access to Aegis Travel Insurance's claims portal, where you can file claims and monitor their statuses. Aegis Travel Insurance says that claims will be processed within seven to 10 business days. 

Aegis Customer Service and Claims Process

Customer reviews of Aegis Travel Insurance are almost solely concentrated on SquareMouth, where it has 4.06 stars out of five across over 1,100 reviews. Reviews that focused on the process of buying a policy were almost unanimously positive. Customer service was helpful in adjusting any policies pre-departure.

However, reviews on Aegis Travel Insurance's claims process were more mixed. According to customers, the claims team was hard to get a hold of and the process often took over a month, well over the promised processing window.

Learn more about how Aegis Travel Insurance Travel Insurance stacks up against the competition. 

Aegis Travel Insurance vs. HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

HTH Worldwide's most popular TripProtector Preferred plan comes with $500,000 in emergency medical coverage, $50,000 in trip cancellation, $2,000 in baggage loss/damage, and $2,000 in trip delay insurance.

With Aegis Travel Insurance's Choice plan, you'll get $250,000 in emergency medical assistance, 150% of trip cost in trip cancellation, $500 in baggage loss/damage coverage, and $200 for baggage delays, and you can get upgraded protection.

In comparing the two plans, you'll see that Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance offers better coverage when it comes to medical protections, but falls short, compared to HTH Worldwide, when it comes to travel coverages.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Aegis Travel Insurance vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

Like Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance, Allianz offers single-trip policies as well as policies for those who plan to travel for a longer period of time. And, like with all insurance, the different plans provide varying degrees of coverage.

Allianz's most popular single-trip option is the OneTrip Prime plan, which offers trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000, trip interruption coverage up to $150,000, emergency medical coverage for $50,000, coverage for baggage loss, theft or damage up to $1,000, and travel delay coverage up to $800.

In comparison, Aegis Travel Insurance's Choice plan offers $250,000 in emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation insurance. And it comes with up to $500 in baggage loss or damage coverage and $200 if your bags are delayed. Upgraded protection is also an option.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Aegis Travel Insurance vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

Be sure to take a look at your travel credit card's insurance coverage before buying a separate policy. Some coverages, like rental car coverage, might already be included.

Let's say, for example, you're taking a road trip and have very minimal (if any) pre-paid or non-refundable trip expenses. In that case, the coverage from your credit card will likely suffice. Or maybe your main concern is trip and baggage delay and cancellation coverage because your current health coverage covers you overseas. That's another instance where credit card insurance coverage might do the trick!

Worth noting, though, is that sometimes credit card coverage is secondary. This means you'll have to make a claim with your other applicable insurance before making a claim with your credit card company.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance here.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Aegis Travel Insurance

When reviewing Aegis Travel Insurance travel insurance travel insurance, we considered various factors such as types of coverage, claim limits, available policy add-ons, and costs. We then compared these findings to similar plans from other top travel insurance companies.

In the end, the best policy is the one that offers an adequate amount and type of coverage depending on your needs and budget. It should also be user-friendly in case you have to make a claim sometime in the future.

Read more about how Business Insider reviews insurance products here.

Aegis Travel Insurance FAQs

Aegis Travel Insurance covers COVID-19 like any other illness under its medical and cancellation coverage. It also offers coverage for travel delay due to COVID quarantine.

No, you cannot purchase an Aegis Travel Insurance plan for a trip in progress.

To file a claim with Aegis Travel Insurance, you must first contact a claims agent, who will email you access to the Aegis claims portal, where you can file your claim and keep track of any updates.

Aegis Travel Insurance will cover pre-existing medical conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 24 hours or 14 days of your initial trip deposit, depending on your policy. Aegis Travel Insurance's Choice plan offers pre-existing condition coverage as an upgrade instead of an inclusion, though the 14-day window still applies.

Aegis Travel Insurance' Pandemic Plus, Choice, and Trip Cancellation coverage can be extended by up to seven days.

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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Pet Insurance

Trupanion pet insurance review 2024

Mandy Sleight

Scott Nyerges

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

Heidi Gollub

Published 6:00 a.m. UTC May 6, 2024

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What you should know

Trupanion did not make our rating of the best pet insurance companies , but it does have some benefits that may appeal to you. With Trupanion, there is no minimum age limit for enrollment, so you can insure your pets from the time they are born until they are 14 years old. All insured pets get unlimited annual coverage with a 90% reimbursement percentage. You choose the deductible, from $0 to $1,000.

Pet insurance plans

Accident and illness plan

• Deductible: $0 to $1,000.
• Annual coverage limit: Unlimited.
• Reimbursement percentage: 90%.

Optional riders

• Recovery and complementary care: Pays for additional treatments like behavioral therapy, acupuncture and hydrotherapy.
• Pet owner assistance: Reimburses you for expenses like advertisements and rewards for lost pets and burial or cremation expenses.
• Breeding: Covers the cost of treatments related to conditions that develop from whelping (for dogs) or queening (for cats) if you breed your pet.

Customer reviews

Trupanion has more than 6,800 reviews on Trustpilot, with a score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. In Trupanion reviews, customers said how helpful Trupanion was in an emergency, covering thousands of dollars of vet bills, but some customers did criticize the cost of Trupanion pet insurance.

• Can pay your vet directly if the vet has Trupanion software.
• Option for a $0 deductible.
• Stable rates as your pet ages.
• No minimum age for enrollment.
• Expensive compared to competitors.
• Pets must be enrolled before 14 years of age.
• No discounts.
• No coverage for exam fees.
• No wellness plan.

Our Partner

Paw protect, maximum annual coverage, average monthly cost for dogs, average monthly cost for cats.

About Trupanion pet insurance

Offering pet insurance since 2000, Seattle-based Trupanion can pay your vet directly if the vet has Trupanion software. You can also contact Trupanion 24/7 to get pre-approval before your pet receives care. This can help you make the best decision for your pet and your budget. 

Although Trupanion doesn’t offer a wellness plan, it offers three optional coverage riders: complementary and recovery care, pet owner assistance and a breeding pet rider. Trupanion is one of the most expensive carriers we reviewed and it did not make our rating of the best pet insurance companies . 

What Trupanion covers

Pet insurance from Trupanion covers:

• Congenital conditions.
• Diagnostic testing.
• Herbal therapy.
• Hereditary conditions.
• Hospitalization.
• Prescription medications and supplements.
• Prosthetic devices, carts, wheelchairs.Surgery.
• Unidentified issues like weight fluctuations, cough, vomiting and diarrhea.

What Trupanion doesn’t cover

There are several items Trupanion pet insurance doesn’t cover:

• Accidents or illnesses that develop during the waiting period.
• Anal gland expression.
• Bedding, housing, crates, nonprescription foods and other non-veterinary pet expenses.
• Cremation or burial expenses.
• Elective or cosmetic procedures.
• Losses due to war, invasion, riots, nuclear reaction and other hostilities.
• Pre-existing conditions.
• Racing or intentional injuries.
• Routine and preventive care.
• Spaying or neutering.
• Transportation expenses.

Best pet insurance companies comparison

Via Petted’s website

Average monthly pet insurance cost assumes unlimited reimbursement (or the highest level offered by that company), a $500 deductible and a 90% reimbursement percentage for a dog insurance accident and illness plan. These average pet insurance company rates are based on dogs and cats of various ages, breeds and ZIP codes. Source: PetInsurer.com.

Trupanion pet insurance review FAQs

No, Trupanion pet insurance provides unlimited annual coverage. Once you have met your deductible, you will only be responsible for 10% of the remaining balance for covered expenses, with no cap on coverage.

Trupanion pet insurance does not offer a wellness plan. The company is there to help with emergency veterinary care for your pet’s accidents and illnesses, but not routine and preventive care. 

Trupanion pet insurance is expensive compared to other companies in our rating of the best pet insurance . 

Shopping for coverage? How to compare pet insurance quotes

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.

Scott Nyerges is a veteran journalist with experience in insurance and consumer reviews. Before contributing to USA TODAY Blueprint, Scott was the senior insurance editor and content strategist for U.S. News and World Report. He's also written and edited for Consumer Reports, MSN, Cheapism and Consumer Search. He loves helping people make smart money decisions. Scott's expertise lies in car insurance, home insurance, life insurance, pet insurance and small business insurance. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism from The University of Missouri-Columbia.

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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