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Cheapest Travel Insurance (April 2024)

Travel insurance typically costs between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. the cheapest travel insurer for total trip protection is nationwide..

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Stephanie is a DC-based freelance writer specializing in personal finance. Her work covers insurance, loans, real estate investing, retirement, and more.

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As Insurify’s home and pet insurance editor, Danny also specializes in auto insurance. His goal is to help consumers navigate the complex world of insurance buying.

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As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.

Updated December 11, 2023

Table of contents

• Cost of insurance
• Find cheap insurance
• What’s covered

Travel isn’t cheap; unexpected expenses or plan changes can be very costly. Travel insurance provides financial protection if you cancel your trip, experience a delay, or get sick or injured while on your trip. [1]

Nationwide, Travel Insured, and Berkshire Hathaway offer some of the cheapest total trip protection policies. Some plans are more expensive than others and may not be suited for you, so it’s crucial to compare plans from multiple companies to find the best coverage. Here’s a look at some of the best travel insurance prices and what these insurers offer.

Where to find the cheapest insurer

The right travel insurance plan for you is one that protects your travel investment at the most affordable price. Here’s a look at some of the cheapest travel insurance policies and what each offers. The quotes below are for a $4,000 trip to Mexico for two 30-year-olds.

Travel Insurance International

Policies with Travel Insurance International ranged from $144 to $176, with many possible add-ons and additional coverage options. And if you change your mind about the travel insurance policy, you can cancel within two weeks and get a full refund. [2]

Baggage delay coverage kicks in after only three hours

14-day cancel period (full premium refund)

Event ticket reimbursement only applies to non-refundable registration fees

Many coverages only offered as optional riders (for an additional cost)

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

Berkshire Hathaway offers multiple policy options ranging from flight-only insurance to full trip protection, with robust coverage and an affordable price tag. Quotes ranged from $88 for flight-only coverage to $188 for premier trip insurance. [3]

Provides options to insure your entire trip or just the travel portion

Trip interruption reimbursement of up to 150% of your trip's total cost

Must provide email address to get a quote

Baggage delay reimbursement coverage kicks in after 24 hours

Nationwide is a top-rated all-lines insurance company in the U.S., offering everything from auto and home insurance to travel coverage. Trip insurance through Nationwide comes in two tiers, and quotes we received were $97 and $163, respectively. It provides travelers with trip, baggage, and medical protection while away from home. [4]

Baggage delay only needs to be 12 hours

10-day premium refund policy

Strict medical requirements for trip protection benefits (policy includes 60-day pre-existing condition clause)

No rental car collision or loss coverage

Through IMG, you can choose coverage that’s based on either medical insurance or travel insurance. Costs can vary dramatically depending on the type of coverage you choose (our quotes ranged from $19 to $271), but this gives you the flexibility to build a policy based on your travel protection preferences. [5]

Medical coverage limits as high as $8 million

Up to 36 months of continuous coverage

Longer requirement for delayed baggage coverage

Low emergency dental coverage

Travelex offers five types of travel insurance coverage, depending on whether you want comprehensive, post-departure, or flight-only coverage. Quotes ranged anywhere from $38 for flight insurance to $200 for total trip protection, with the option to pay more for upgrades like the ability to cancel for any reason or doubling your medical coverage limits. [6]

Strong consumer ratings

15-day free preview period (full refund offered)

Not available in all states

Doesn't offer excess trip interruption coverage (limited to 100% of trip cost)

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

Finding the most affordable travel insurance is a great way to protect your trip and your budget at the same time. Here are some tips to consider if you’re looking for the cheapest travel insurance:

Shop around

As with any insurance product, you’ll find the most affordable travel insurance coverage by getting quotes from multiple insurers. Luckily, most travel insurers provide online quotes in minutes after just a few questions. Be sure to read the limits, privacy policy, and options that each offers so you’re comparing apples to apples.

Decide what’s most important

What are you worried about most when it comes to your trip? What would be the most financially devastating? If you have a refundable trip and are only worried about medical coverage, your coverage needs differ from those of someone who wants a cancel for any reason (CFAR) policy.

Adjust your policy details

Many companies will allow you to adjust coverage options, such as your deductible and medical limits. By taking on more risk, you’ll usually reduce your overall cost, and vice versa.

Capitalize on other coverage you might have

Many credit cards offer trip delay and cancellation coverage, medical emergency coverage, and even lost or delayed baggage reimbursement. If you book your trip with one of these travel credit cards, you might not need as much trip insurance as travelers without those protections.

How Much Is Travel Insurance?

What travel insurance covers.

Vacations can be expensive, especially if you’re planning a long-distance trip, going to an exotic location, or traveling with a group. No matter how well you plan, your trip can easily be derailed by illness, injury, travel delays, or even a simple change of plans.

Travel insurance provides financial protection if and when your travel plans change, either before you depart or while you’re away from home. This coverage can also offer you financial reimbursement if you experience flight delays, lost baggage, and more. And if you get sick or hurt while traveling, it can provide you with the care you need, regardless of where.

A few different travel insurance coverages are available to choose from, depending on which insurer you buy your policy through and how much you’re willing to spend. You can typically choose coverage that provides one or more of the following:

Medical and dental care (especially important since your medical insurance policy typically won’t apply outside the U.S.), including medical evacuation back to the U.S.

Trip or baggage delay and interruption coverage

Trip cancellation coverage

Pet travel and fees

Accidental death or dismemberment

These policies may also be issued for a single trip, such as a planned cruise or vacation, or can provide you with blanket coverage for multiple trips over an extended period of time. For example, frequent travelers may want to buy a policy that covers them for 12 to 36 months.

What travel insurance doesn’t cover

Your travel insurance coverage will depend on the policy you purchase. If you buy a medical-based policy, you may not have coverage for things like lost luggage or pet kennel charges. And depending on the company and plan you choose, you might not have options like canceling your trip for any reason.

In general, though, travel insurance typically doesn’t protect you against losses related to:

Named tropical cyclones

Pre-existing medical conditions or known illnesses

Acts of war and terrorism

Epidemics and pandemics

Dangerous or high-risk activities

Cheap travel insurance FAQs

Below, you’ll find answers to a few commonly asked questions about how to find the cheapest travel insurance for your next trip.

Which factors determine the cost of travel insurance?

The cost of your travel insurance depends on the type of coverage you buy (medical, cancel for any reason, trip interruption/delay), as well as the deductible, coverage limits, age of those covered, and optional features you choose. Your policy price will also be affected by your country of travel, travel dates, and the total cost of your trip.

What is the cheapest travel insurance?

The cheapest travel insurance plan is flight-only protection, which offers financial compensation if someone is killed or injured on a common airline. It may also offer protection against delays and lost bags, depending on which additional coverage options you choose.

What is the average cost of travel insurance?

On average, travel insurance costs between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. This price tag can be further affected by the coverage options you choose, the duration of your trip, and your destination.

Methodology

Quotes for this article were sourced directly from each insurance company’s website. The travel insurance plan costs are for two 30-year-olds traveling from the United States to Mexico with a trip cost of $4,000.

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• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . " Travel Insurance ."
• Travel Insured International . " Travel Insurance ."
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . " Travel Insurance ."
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Stephanie is a DC-based freelance writer. She primarily covers personal finance topics such as insurance, loans, real estate investing, and retirement. Her work can be found on CBS, FOX Business, MSN, Yahoo! Finance, Business Insider, and more. When she isn't helping people plan for their financial futures, she is traveling, hiking with her kids, or writing for her own website, TomorrowsDollar.com. She can be reached on Twitter @stephcolestock

Latest Articles

Travel insurance can be beneficial, especially for people traveling to risky areas and people with health concerns.

How to Find the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

Travel insurance can be beneficial for senior travelers, especially those with health concerns. Find out how you can secure your next trip.

Cruise insurance is a type of travel insurance that can include international medical insurance, trip delays, and complete cancellation of your trip.

Learn how to find visitor insurance for parents, why you need it, and the best companies offering medical coverage for visitors from abroad.

Is Flight Insurance Worth It?

Is flight insurance worth it? Weigh the pros, cons, typical costs, and coverage options to decide whether it’s worth purchasing.

Travel medical insurance can provide financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances while traveling, such as illness or medical emergencies.

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When you click "Continue" you will be taken to a site owned by , not GEICO. GEICO has no control over their privacy practices and assumes no responsibility in connection with your use of their website. Any information that you provide directly to them is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website.

Travel Insurance

Get a travel insurance quote and protect your next trip

For flight insurance protection:

Aircare Flight Quote

For all-in-one trip insurance protection:

ExactCare Travel Quote

Manage Your Travel And Flight Insurance

Manage your policy online

Need a travel insurance quote?

Existing policyholder?

Take the worry out of your travels with affordable flight or trip insurance.

Looking to plan the vacation of a lifetime or flying home for the holidays? Trip insurance and flight insurance can provide the peace of mind you need for your next journey. The GEICO Insurance Agency, with Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP), offers comprehensive travel insurance coverage, with prompt service and global assistance. Get an online travel insurance quote today and confidently protect your next adventure.

AirCare Flight Insurance

If you only need to protect your travel costs for a flight, AirCare may be what you need. With affordable coverage for both domestic and international flights, AirCare flight insurance helps you plan with peace of mind.

ExactCare Travel Insurance

If you want to cover your flight and other trip arrangement's ExtraCare can help. An ExactCare Travel Insurance policy can help with the unexpected like:

• Trip Cancellations/Interruptions/Delays
• Lost/Stolen travel documents
• Unexpected medical expenses

What's the difference between flight insurance and travel insurance?

The main difference is that a flight insurance policy only covers your airfare. On the other hand, a travel insurance policy helps protect your flight as well as other parts of your trip. While you're planning your next trip, think about where you're going and what you'll be doing. Once you have that, it'll be easier to choose which policy works best for your trip.

What does a flight insurance policy cover?

AirCare Flight Insurance has a variety of benefits including emergency travel assistance, 24/7/365. Some common flight coverages are:

• Airfare incase flights are cancelled or you miss a connection
• Personal items like lost or delayed luggage
• Flight delays in your departure (at the gate or on the tarmac)

AirCare Quote

What does a travel insurance policy cover?

ExactCare Travel Insurance provides all-in-one travel protection, with family friendly pricing and worldwide emergency travel assistance 24/7/365. Common things covered by travel insurance are:

• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Personal items like passports and luggage
• Medical costs like hospital and doctor expenses, medical evacuations, and more

ExactCare quote

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Your coverage is based on the plan you choose. However, in general some things that aren't normally covered by travel insurance are:

• Action and team sports, for example auto racing, pro sports travel, or other extreme sport activities
• Travel to get medical care
• Trip Cancellation because you changed your mind

For more information, please check your policy.

Is travel or trip insurance worth the cost?

Travel insurance can help protect your vacation or trips from unexpected things happening. You can travel without trip insurance but doing so brings greater risk if something goes wrong or you encounter unexpected delays. Flight insurance or trip insurance coverage can include things like flight cancellation, lost luggage, trip cancellation, emergency medical transportation, and more. Learn more about travel insurance and why you should get a travel insurance quote today!

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance typically costs 5 to 10 percent of your total trip cost, though that can be influenced by several things.

• The cost of the trip
• The length of your trip and destination
• The amount of coverage selected
• The number of travelers covered under the policy

Worldwide service and claims information.

It's easy to manage your travel insurance..

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) has made it easy to manage your travel insurance. You can:

• Visit Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection's website
• Email [email protected]

Is travel insurance worth it?

Yes. Things happen that are out of your control. Whether it's your flight being cancelled or delayed to a family emergency. Life happens and that's how travel insurance can help. Plan for the unexpected with a travel insurance policy so you can rest easy knowing you're covered.

Travel Insurance: Get the answers you're looking for.

• What travel insurance plans are available? BHTB offers AirCare (flight only) and 3 main plans: ExactCare Value, ExactCare, and ExactCare Extra. ExactCare Value provides great traveling insurance coverage for budget minded travelers. You can rest easy knowing you're covered for things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical expenses. The main difference is the maximum amount that will be covered. ExactCare and ExactCare Extra's insurance cover the same things as ExactCare Value and add coverage for missed connections and accidental death & dismemberment. The overall amount covered is also increased for each plan respectively.
• Can I get trip insurance for an extended overseas stay? Yes. We can help you with getting insurance for overseas. Please visit our overseas insurance page for information about all the options we have for you!
• Is there travel insurance that can cover my vehicle while traveling to Mexico? Your US auto insurance policy won't cover your vehicle when you drive into Mexico. We're here to help you find the Mexico car insurance you need to insure your car.
• Tips for saving money on your next vacation. No one wants to overpay things. We're here to help. Check out our 5 ways to save your money on your next family vacation.
• Where you're going
• Number of days you're traveling
• Cost of your overall trip
• Coverage you pick
• Number of people covered under your policy

If you choose to get a rate quote or service your policy online, you will be taken to the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection website which is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, not GEICO. Any information that you provide directly to Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company on its website is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website, which you should read before proceeding. GEICO assumes no responsibility for their privacy practices or your use of their website.

ExactCare is provided through Berkshire Hathaway Global Insurance Services, LLC. ExactCare and AirCare are underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company. Both coverages are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, LLC.

Benefits may vary by jurisdiction. Please contact a representative to confirm availability.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

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• Personal Finance

Best Travel Insurance Companies for April 2024

According to our research, Travelex is the best travel insurance company because its comprehensive coverage comes at a relatively low cost. We chose the best travel insurers in our list based on an analysis of 31 travel insurance companies across several areas that are most important to travelers, including options available for your coverage, claim and policy limits, what the policy does and doesn't cover, and typical policy costs. We took time to research insurance coverage limits and what the policies covered and rank companies accordingly.

Travel insurance is an important product to consider when booking a trip, especially if it's a pricy one or you believe there's a chance it could be canceled. If you're like the 40% of people who told Nationwide Travel Insurance they plan to travel more in 2024 than in 2023, then travel insurance could be key to making those plans a reality.

Our list of top travel insurance companies can help you choose the right provider, but you should also do your research to make sure the policy covers your particular trip. And if general travel insurance isn't enough, you may be able to add cancel for any reason (CFAR) travel insurance to your policy to ensure an unexpected situation comes up, like a last-minute work or family obligation, or safety concern.

• Best Overall: Travelex
• Runner-Up, Best Overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best Value: InsureMyTrip
• Most Comprehensive Coverage: World Nomads
• Best for Older Adults: HTH Travel Insurance
• Best for Cruises: Nationwide
• Best for Medical Coverage: GeoBlue
• Our Top Picks

Allianz Travel Insurance

InsureMyTrip

World Nomads

HTH Travel Insurance

• See More (4)

The Bottom Line

• Compare Providers
• What Is Travel Insurance?

How to Get Travel Insurance

What does travel insurance cover.

• How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
• What Happens When You Cancel a Trip?

Best Overall : Travelex

• Number of Policy Types: 3
• Coverage Limit: Up to 100% up to $50,000 for cancellations
• Starting Price: $24

Travelex offers coverage (up to 150% for interruptions) for you or your family members at a competitive price—and kids are included at no extra charge. A relatively low price for the high levels of coverage made it our top choice. Look for the Travel Select plan for the best coverage.

Competitive pricing for comprehensive coverage

Multiple plan options with customizable features

Children younger than 21 covered at no extra cost

Mixed pre-existing medical condition coverage depending on the policy purchase date

No annual plan available

Basic coverage plan features minimal coverage

Travelex Insurance Services is a well-known travel insurance provider based in Omaha, Nebraska. Founded in 1996, Travelex offers several insurance packages depending on the coverage you need for your trip. Policies are underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, which earns an A++ rating from AM Best and AA+ from Standard & Poor’s.  Coverage is available to customers worldwide.

The Travel Select plan starts at about $36 and includes trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption, and emergency medical and evacuation, but there also are several ways to customize and upgrade coverage.

Travel is covered up to 100% up to $50,000 for cancellations. You can receive up to 150% of the trip cost, up to $75,000, for trip interruptions. Emergency medical limits are $50,000, and emergency evacuation coverage is good for up to $500,000.

In addition, Travel Select has a 15-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver. If you purchase your policy within 15 days of paying for your trip and insure the full cost of the trip, your pre-existing injury or illness is likely covered.

Runner-Up , Best Overall : Allianz Travel Insurance

• Number of Policy Types: 10
• Coverage Limit: Up to $10,000 per insured, per year for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: $138

Allianz gets the runner-up spot because it offers coverage for frequent travelers with a low cost per trip. Get the best coverage from the AllTrips Executive Plan. Individual trip coverage is also available.

Annual- or single-trip plans are available

Many policy types fit varying needs

Cover yourself and your household all year even if you’re not traveling together

Does not cover extended travel periods

Some annual plans have per-trip limits while others have annual limits

Limit for emergency medical transportation coverage is only $250,000

Allianz Travel is a subsidiary of Allianz, which traces its history back to 1890 in Germany. Travel policies are underwritten by insurers with AM Best ratings of A to A+ and are available only to legal U.S. residents.

Travelers who want to hit the road many times per year should consider annual travel insurance rather than individual per-trip policies. Allianz Travel offers four different annual plans with varying benefit levels. We particularly like its AllTrips Executive Plan, which has the highest limits and coverage.

The AllTrips Executive Plan provides tiered limits starting at $5,000 for trip cancellation insurance or interruption coverage. It also offers $50,000 for emergency medical and $250,000 for emergency transportation per insured per trip. There is a lengthy list of exclusions, including extreme sports, so make sure to read the fine print before jumping into adventure activities.

Quotes for a single traveler, a couple, and a family of four had a price point of $500 per traveler per year. If you pay for comprehensive coverage at $120 per person per trip and are going to travel at least five times per year, you will break even with this plan. If you’re looking for lower costs, the AllTrips Basic, Premier, and Prime options are also available from Allianz.

Best Value : InsureMyTrip

• Number of Policy Types: Multiple options from over 20 providers
• Coverage Limit: Varies
• Starting Price: $25 to $100

Compare policies from more than 20 different travel insurance providers with one form so you know you’re getting a good deal for the coverage you need. You can find low-cost trip coverage or customize a plan to meet your needs so you don’t overpay for coverage you won’t use.

Search for quotes from multiple reputable insurers

Shop around with one application for multiple trip types

View multiple plans from eligible insurers for your planned trip

Many popular insurers are not included in listings

Initial listing pages don’t show policy limits

Includes some policies with low coverage limits

Founded in 2000, InsureMyTrip is a travel insurance comparison website that searches from more than 20 insurers using one intake form. It offers an easy-to-use sign-up tool to quickly compare multiple policies based on your specific needs. Filters are available to pick policies that cover adventure sports, higher limits, increased medical coverage, and more.

A quote for a family of four taking a 14-day trip that costs $4,000 and includes plane and hotel expenses resulted in three suggested plans with costs of around $100 to around $400 for varying levels of travel protection. Basic features included luggage coverage, travel delay, and medical care. Note that rates will differ based on where customers are originating from and where they are vacationing, as well as other variables.

The insurers you'll find while using InsureMyTrip have earned a variety of industry ratings and are generally considered reputable and financially stable. Still, as with policies bought directly from insurers, it’s a good idea to read the policy details before clicking the buy button. Each underlying insurer has different claims processes, exclusions, and limits. InsureMyTrip makes it easier, however, to be an informed travel insurance buyer.

Most Comprehensive Coverage : World Nomads

• Number of Policy Types: 2
• Coverage Limit: Up to $10,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: $100 to $200

Adventure travelers and digital nomads receive good trip protection from this plan, which offers coverage of up to $100,000 for accidents for some of the most extreme adventures.

Extensive coverage with high limits for medical and emergency evacuation

Protects your bags, computers, and sports equipment when traveling

Explorer plan covers adventure sports

Only single-trip plans are available

Most pre-existing medical conditions are not covered

Not all policies cover adventure sports

World Nomads is a good insurer for those looking for adventure. The Australia-based provider was founded in 2000 and is a solid choice for worldwide travel with few excluded activities. Policies are underwritten by various insurers including the financially strong and well-known Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, Generali Global, AIG, and Lloyd’s.

Coverage includes terrorist attacks, assault, medical repatriation, equipment and baggage, and overseas medical and dental. The high-end Explorer Plan covers activities including snow sports, water sports, aviation, motorsports, athletics, and high-adventure experiences. It names more than 200 activities, many of which other insurers specifically exclude.

For the Explorer Plan, a solo 35-year-old would pay around $200, depending on inputs like state of origin, for a month in Thailand, which is reasonable for such extensive coverage. The Standard Plan costs around $100 for the same trip, but it makes sense to choose higher coverage levels if you’re worried about something going wrong.

This U.S.-based policy is underwritten by Nationwide (rated A by AM Best) with a $100,000 limit for emergency accidents and illnesses, $500,000 for emergency evacuation, $10,000 for trip cancellation insurance (or interruption), and much more.

Though it doesn’t have the same insurance reputation as some other providers, it works with reputable companies to underwrite policies.

Best for Older Adults : HTH Travel Insurance

• Number of Policy Types: 5
• Coverage Limit: Up to $50,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: Varies

Medical coverage may be important to older adults who need excellent travel protection with flexible options while on a budget. This is where HTH Worldwide stands out. Older adults can get high levels of medical coverage.

High levels of medical coverage for adults up to 95 years old

Up to a $1,500 allowance for someone to visit you in the hospital

May be expensive depending on your needs

Best plan for older adults requires existing health insurance

Lowest policy has a $50,000 maximum benefit per person

Headquartered in Pennsylvania, HTH Worldwide was founded in 1997, and HTH Travel Insurance offers plans with high levels of medical coverage. That’s a big concern for older adults leaving the country , as they could end up in a doctor’s office or hospital with an expensive bill to follow. HTH Travel Insurance offers up to $1 million in total coverage for medical.

Policies for travelers with existing primary insurance enjoy 100% coverage for typical hospital charges, including surgery, tests, office visits, inpatient hospital stays, and prescription drugs outside of the U.S., among other coverage.

Medical evacuation is available up to $500,000, but trip interruption and baggage coverage are pretty light. Most people will choose this plan for medical rather than travel benefits. This policy is available to applicants who are 95 years old or younger.

Travel insurance is also available for people without existing health coverage. Most older adults in the U.S. are covered by some existing coverage, such as Medicare, but Medicare doesn’t work outside of the United States, leaving people uninsured when abroad. HTH Travel Insurance provides policies for those without existing medical coverage. The age limit is 95, but there is a 180-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion.

Best for Cruises : Nationwide

• Number of Policy Types: 8
• Coverage Limit: Up to $30,000 for trip cancellation
• Starting Price: $100

Multiple options protect your cruise vacation with tailored coverage for common cruise trip issues. This makes Nationwide a good pick for those who take to the high seas for their vacations. Make sure to review the benefit levels so you pick the right coverage for your needs.

Large insurer with a strong reputation

Three different cruise insurance plans to choose from

Coverage for common cruise issues like missed connections and itinerary changes

Some plans have low coverage levels for some incidents

Benefit limits are low for trip interruption for any reason

Pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered

Nationwide has been around since 1925. The Columbus, Ohio-based insurance company offers the most popular types of insurance including auto, home, and life. It also offers a few types of travel insurance coverage for individual trips, multi-trips, and cruises.

For single trip protection, Nationwide offers trip cancellation insurance of up to $10,000 with its Essentials plan and $30,000 with its Prime plan. Travelers may also get an annual travel insurance package for just $59 a year to cover delays, medical expenses, medical evacuation, lost luggage, and travel assistance.

Its custom-tailored plans for cruises, however, are what landed it in this category. The Universal Cruise plan, Choice Cruise plan, and Luxury Cruise plan make it easy to pick the right coverage for your individual needs. The cost for a couple on a 10-day cruise to Mexico, for example, was quoted at around $200 for both the Universal and Choice plans.

Cruise insurance from Nationwide covers what you worry about most with a cruise. Things like broken-down ships and itinerary changes can lead to missed excursions and flights or other costs. For the Universal Cruise plan, emergency medical expenses are covered up to $75,000 with medical evacuation benefits up to $250,000.

Additionally, all plans include coverage for the weather, an extension of school sessions, work emergencies, and terrorism. The luxury plan also covers the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warnings in effect at your destination.

Travelers in 2024 have concerns over trip cancelations due to unprecedented events. Nationwide's survey showed that 51% are still worried about a resurgence of COVID-19, while 54% worry about weather-related delays or cancellations. Other worries include technology issues (38%), unruly fellow travelers (37%), and employee strikes (25%). Travel insurance can help alleviate some stress about a trip being canceled.

Best for Medical Coverage : GeoBlue

GeoBlue offers multiple options to buy travel medical insurance coverage for a lower price than a full travel insurance package. It offers medical coverage on its own if you don’t want or need additional travel coverage.

Up to $1 million in medical coverage

Gives a la carte medical coverage when other trip costs are already covered

Different policies allow you to cover various needs and pre-existing medical conditions

Primarily covers medical costs

Additional primary medical coverage required

GeoBlue, headquartered in Pennsylvania, is part of Worldwide Insurance Services, and policies come with a license from Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Policies are issued by 4 Ever Life International Limited, a company with a history of more than 60 years and an A rating (Excellent) from AM Best.

If you just need coverage for medical needs, GeoBlue is a good choice. This insurer offers only travel medical coverage. Paying for medical coverage means you aren't paying for the rest of your travel insurance, which you already may have covered. If you already have a credit card with travel insurance included, your card's terms likely protect things like lost luggage and missed flights, for example. Instead, you get covered just for medical, and the costs for that are as low as a few dollars per day.

Because you’re mostly getting travel medical coverage, you will pay a lot less than most other insurers on this list. Just make sure you completely understand what it does and doesn't cover. You will receive only minimal luggage protection and travel interruption coverage with GeoBlue's plans.

GeoBlue has two general plans for single trips, multiple trips, and long-term travel. Additionally, there are five specialty policies for niche travel medical insurance needs, like study abroad. It doesn’t cover everything related to your trip, but it makes medical coverage much more affordable.

Travelex is the best travel insurance company because it offers competitive pricing for comprehensive travel insurance. Policies from Travelex cover everything from canceled or interrupted trips to medical emergencies and evacuations. It also features a 15-day pre-existing medical conditions waiver, which means that as long as you book your trip several weeks in advance, you and your family members will likely still be covered.

There are many options to choose from when it comes to travel insurance. It can provide you with peace of mind and save you thousands of dollars if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted at the last minute. With world events like pandemics, natural disasters, and wars that could easily throw an unexpected wrench in your travel plans, travel insurance helps you to stay prepared. Overall, our top choice for travel insurance is Travelex.

Why You Can Trust Our Expert Recommendations for the Best Travel Insurance

Investopedia collected several key data points from over 30 travel insurance companies to identify the most important factors for readers choosing a travel insurance company for their trips. We used this data to review each company for cost, coverage limits, exclusions, customer service, and other features to provide unbiased, comprehensive reviews to ensure our readers make the right decision for their needs. Investopedia launched in 1999, and has been helping readers find the best travel insurance companies since 2020.

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Travel insurance covers common problems when traveling. From trip interruptions to full cancellations, it can help protect the money you put down for your travel experience.

Common coverage includes more than just an unexpected trip stoppage. It can also cover lost or damaged luggage and changes to your itinerary for covered reasons, among other benefits.

Medical coverage is an important factor to consider because your current health insurance may not work away from home. The best travel insurance includes coverage for medical treatment, dental emergencies, and medical transportation. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are at risk, it’s important to make sure your policy covers these, too.

Tips for Picking the Best Travel Insurance for You

When picking the best travel insurance policy, there are a few things you should consider. Here are some tips and factors to think about:

• Look for low pricing and good coverage : Pricing is one of the most significant factors when comparing travel insurance policies. Look for a provider that offers low rates and doesn’t skimp on coverage.
• Don't settle for the first policy type : Depending on where you’re traveling and how long you’re staying there, different types of travel insurance policies may work best for your situation. For instance, you may need a different policy for a weeklong trip than you would if you plan to travel abroad for several months.
• Match your coverage limits to your travel costs : Travel insurance plans have coverage limits for trip cancellation, interruption, and medical expenses. Look for a plan whose coverage limit matches the amount you’ve spent on your travel plans.
• Don't forget to look at the exclusions : Some travel insurance plans come with exclusions. If you’re worried about a particular event or accident, make sure it’s covered before you pay for a plan.
• Look for high customer satisfaction ratings : Customer satisfaction is also an important factor when purchasing a travel insurance plan. Look for a provider with high customer satisfaction ratings and a history of good customer service.

"As someone who is always purchasing travel insurance, and has been for years, the thing that matters to me the most is mainly coverage and customer service. I want to know what my policy will cover, especially if I am taking a trip that involves a lot of activities, as well as how easy it will be to contact the company should I need to do so.I have found in the past that the price is always very reasonable and you can shop around, so it has never been the biggest concern for me." -Alice Morgan, Senior Digital Art Director, Dotdash Meredith

• Select a travel insurance company.
• Apply for the travel insurance plan of choice on the company's website or over the phone.
• Provide basic info about who is traveling and travel plans, like name, age, location of trip, and travel expenses and costs like hotels or airfare.
• Wait to be approved.
• Create an online account for easy access while you travel. Some companies may have an app, too.
• Enjoy your trip, and file a claim online or over the phone if needed.

When you’ve selected a travel insurance plan that meets your needs, the next step is to apply for travel insurance. You’ll need to provide the insurance company with some basic information about yourself and your travel plans, including your age, where you live, the date and location of your trip, and your total travel expenses, including things like flights and hotel stays.

Many insurance companies let you apply for a policy entirely online. When your application has been approved, you can typically manage your account online and add details about your trip. If you do need to file a claim, you can typically complete the process online.

Travel insurance may include many different benefits. Here’s a look at some common situations covered by many travel insurance plans:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Missed connection
• Baggage and possession loss, damage, and theft
• Delayed luggage
• Emergency medical treatment
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)

Emergency medical treatment may include things like ambulance services, x-rays, doctor bills, dental work, lab work, and more. It'll depend on the travel insurance company, so be sure to ask before paying for the insurance and/or additional benefits.

There are additional specialty coverages as well, such as customized policies for cruises. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare before making a final decision.

What Does Travel Insurance Not Cover?

Just as homeowners insurance often excludes damage from things like earthquakes and floods, travel insurance has common exclusions you need to know about. Here are some types of coverage you may not get with travel insurance:

• Weather-related cancellations and delays
• Trip cancellations or changes due to acts of terrorism
• Trip cancellations or changes due to a pandemic
• Injuries from extreme sports and high-adventure activities

Though most policies have limits and exclusions around these circumstances, not all do. Some insurers on this list have special coverage for these exact causes or include them in standard plan terms. Again, this is why it’s so important to read your policy documents before paying for and locking in your policy.

Best Cancel-for-Any-Reason Travel Insurance

The best cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) travel insurance company is USI Affinity because it offers seven different insurance plans at the lowest premiums of all CFAR insurance companies we researched.

Travel insurance costs vary widely by coverage and insurer. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars a day to more than $10 a day for short-term and single-trip coverage. The cost of your trip is another major factor in the insurance rate.

That means insurance for a single trip could cost anywhere from around $20 to hundreds of dollars. Annual policies cost around $500 per year for high levels of coverage.

There are many inexpensive travel insurance plans available, but most travelers are best protected with comprehensive coverage. It costs a bit more, but if you need to file a claim, you’ll be glad you have it.

Is Travel Insurance Worth the Cost?

If you pay a lot for a trip or vacation, then travel insurance should be worth the cost because you don't want to lose out on that investment. It won't always be necessary, but if travel insurance costs just a fraction of what you paid for the trip, then you'll be happy you had it if you have to cancel a trip worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. For example, if you book a European vacation worth $4,000 and your travel insurance costs just $400, it might be worth it so that if anything happens and you need to cancel, you still get $3,600 back in your pocket.

How Does Travel Insurance Work When You Cancel Your Trip?

When canceling your trip, you'll want to contact the travel insurance company right away. The policy and travel insurance company you selected will cover certain parts of your trip. It's important to review this policy and details to understand exactly what you need to do to get your money back for your trip.

Don't cancel your trip until you read your policy and know what is required for your claim.

For example, if you are ill and a doctor tells you not to travel, you may need to get a written note from the doctor and submit it with your trip cancellation claim.

Before you submit a claim and cancel your trip, consider if you can delay it and reschedule it instead. If you can't, then make sure you have all the required documents (receipts, proof of hotel booking, airline ticket confirmation, etc.). Once you submit your claim, it could take days (Allianz says up to 10 business days, sometimes) for you to receive notice that the claim was processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

In which countries is travel insurance required.

Travel insurance is not mandatory or required by all countries, but some do. For example, Cuba requires people traveling from the U.S. to Cuba to have non-U.S. medical insurance, which may be covered through travel insurance or an airline. Other countries that may require or strongly encourage travel insurance include Antarctica, Egypt, Chile, Turkey, and more. Check a country's specific travel requirements before booking your trip to understand if travel insurance is required.

Does Travel Insurance Really Pay?

Travel insurance might not be worth the cost for lower-cost trips and low-risk vacations. However, expensive international trips or large family vacations can make additional travel insurance a reasonable investment.

If you spend thousands of dollars on a trip, it is probably worth spending a couple of hundred more to make sure you get your money back if the trip doesn’t go as planned. If something goes wrong, which can lead to expenses valued at tens of thousands of dollars, it’s good to have a financial backstop so you don’t have to pay for everything out of pocket.

That said, you should check to see what coverage is already available to you through other venues. For instance, many credit cards cover the cost of lost or delayed luggage if you purchase your airfare using that card. Your primary health insurance may cover your medical insurance needs, especially for domestic travel.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for a Cruise?

Just as with any kind of trip, whether you need cruise insurance largely depends on the cost of the trip, and where you're going. If you're paying more than $1,000 for a cruise, travel insurance is probably worth it. For instance, you may want international medical insurance if you're traveling to other countries because some health insurance policies do not cover international travel—Medicare and Medicaid in particular.

Just be aware that if you buy cruise insurance (as opposed to a general travel insurance policy), it may not cover travel before and after the cruise, such as your flight to the port and any hotel expenses you may have pre- or post-trip.

Does State Farm Offer Travel Insurance?

State Farm does not offer travel insurance. State Farm offers car insurance, motorcycle insurance, boat insurance, motorhome insurance, off-road vehicle insurance, homeowners insurance, renters insurance, condo insurance, life insurance, liability insurance, small business insurance, and more.

Can You Buy Travel Insurance After Booking a Flight?

Yes, you can book travel insurance after booking a flight. This may be a great time to book travel insurance because you'll know what coverage you need in case something happens and your trip is canceled. Signing up for travel insurance as soon as possible will always be your best bet.

Which Travel Insurance Is Best?

The best travel insurance company is Travelex because it offers comprehensive coverage at a relatively low price. Travelex has multiple plan options and family members younger than 21 are covered at no extra cost. Another perk is Travelex's Travel Select plan which has a 15-day pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver. If you purchase your policy within 15 days of paying for your trip and insure the full cost of your trip, your pre-existing injury or illness is likely covered.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Canceled Flights?

Most travel insurance covers canceled flights, as well as delayed flights. If your flight is delayed by a certain number of hours, your travel insurance may reimburse you for the additional money you spent as a result of that delay or cancelation.

What Is the Best Rate for Travel Insurance?

The best rate for travel insurance will be whatever it costs for comprehensive coverage for your trip. While you can get travel insurance that costs just $10 per day, it may not come with the coverage you need for your trip—especially if it's an expensive trip or if you're worried it could be canceled or interrupted.

How We Found the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with this list of the top travel insurance providers, we looked at more than 30 different travel insurance companies and plans. Major areas of focus included coverage options, claim and policy limits, what’s covered, and typical insurance policy costs.

The biggest focus was on insurance coverage limits and what each policy covers. Cost is important, but a difference of $20 for much better coverage is often negligible. The most important features examined in this review are the ones that make your policy valuable and easy to use if you ever need it.

Your Guide to Travel Insurance

• Do I Need Travel Insurance?
• How to Get the Cheapest Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance Options for Older Adults
• Best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Travel Insurance
• How Much Is Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance?
• How to Buy Cancel for Any Reason Travel Insurance

Nationwide. " Survey: U.S. Consumer Travel to Surge in 2024 ."

Travelex. " About Travelex ."

S&P Global Market Intelligence. " Insurance Ratings Actions: S&P Acts on Berkshire Hathaway’s Insurance Segment ."

AM Best. " AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Berkshire Hathaway Life Ins Co of Nebraska and First Berkshire Hathaway Life Ins Co ."

Travelex. " Travel Select ."

Allianz. " History of Allianz ."

AM Best " AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of BCS Financial Group Members ."

AM Best. " AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Allianz SE and Rated Subsidiaries ."

Allianz Travel. " AllTrips Executive ."

InsureMyTrip. " About ."

World Nomads. " About World Nomads ."

World Nomads. " What's Covered for Americans? "

World Nomads. " Summary of Plan Benefits: Explorer Plan ."

AM Best. " AM Best Downgrades Credit Ratings of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Its Property/Casualty Subsidiaries; Affirms Credit Ratings of Life Affiliates ."

HTH Travel Insurance. " About Us ."

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. " Travel Outside the U.S. "

HTH Travel Insurance. " Options for Travelers Without a Primary Plan ."

Nationwide. " About Nationwide ."

Nationwide. " Nationwide Single-Trip Insurance ."

Nationwide. " Nationwide Annual Travel Insurance ."

Nationwide. " Cruise Travel Insurance ."

4 Ever Life. " About Us ."

AM Best. " AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of BCS Financial Group Members ."

GeoBlue. " Travel Medical Insurance Plans ."

Squaremouth Travel Insurance. " Emergency Medical ."

Allianz. " Trip Cancellation Checklist ."

U.S. Embassy in Cuba. " Medical Assistance ."

InsureMyTrip. " Which Countries Require Travel Insurance? "

State Farm. " Types of Insurance Coverage ."

Travelers. " When to Get Travel Insurance ."

Travelex. " Trip Delay Coverage ."

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Best Cheap Travel Insurance

• Complete Guide to Insurance
• Complete Guide to Travel Insurance
• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
• Cheap Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance
• Travel Health Insurance

Think you don’t need travel insurance? What if the unthinkable happens and suddenly, you’re out thousands of dollars? Cheap travel insurance can protect you and members of your family.

Just like it’s now easier than ever to find affordable health insurance , there are also plenty of affordable travel insurance options that can enhance your trip without breaking the bank. Before you head out on your next adventure, consider contacting one of our top cheap travel insurance providers.

• Quick Look: Best Cheap USA Travel Insurance
• Best for International Travel: Faye Travel Insurance
• Best for Frequent Travelers : Arch RoamRight
• Best for Packages: Travelex Insurance Services
• Best Travel Insurance for Backpackers: World Nomads
• Best for Long Trips: Allianz Global Assistance

This provides a broad overview of your policy provisions and does not revise or amend the policy. Insurance coverages are underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, NAIC #11150, under policy series LTP 2013 and amendments thereto. Plans are offered and disseminated by registered travel retailers on behalf of Arch Insurance Solutions Inc., a licensed travel insurance producer* (CA License #0I18111, TX License #1787195). Both the travel insurance producer and the underwriter referenced above may be reached at 1-844-872-4163. Your policy is the contract that specifically and fully describes your coverage. Certain terms, conditions, restrictions and exclusions apply and coverages may vary in certain states. Please refer to your policy for detailed terms and conditions. Consumer Disclosures can be found at: https://www.roamright.com/disclosures/. Privacy policy can be found at: https://www.roamright.com/roamright-website-privacy-policy/ *Plans are solicited by licensed producers in NY and HI. 

World Nomads offers simple, flexible coverage options to travels in more than 130 countries. Choose from either the Standard Plan or the Explorer Plan. Protections include emergency accident and sickness medical expense (including dental) coverage, emergency evacuation coverage, repatriation of remains coverage, accidental death and dismemberment, lost or stolen goods coverage and trip cancellation or interruption reimbursement.

World Nomads also offers 24-hour travel assistance services.

5 Best Affordable Travel Insurance Companies

1. best for international travel: faye travel insurance, 2. best for frequent travelers: arch roamright, 3. best for cheap rates: travelex insurance services, 4. best travel insurance for backpackers: world nomads, 5. best for long trips: allianz global assistance, what does travel insurance cover, what to look for in a company, low deductible, high claim limits, 24/7 claims reporting, multilingual assistance, protect yourself when you travel, frequently asked questions.

Benzinga chose the best travel insurance companies based on the criteria above.

Faye Travel Insurance is a quality choice for travelers who need to work within a budget. The carrier offers competitive pricing for things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, missed connections, baggage delay, emergency accident and sickness medical expenses and medical and non-medical evacuation coverage.

For example, did you know that a young couple of 30 years old could spend a week in Mexico and only spend around $300 for travel insurance through Faye?

Faye’s online platform or app are easy to use and allow you to purchase a policy and/or file a claim in mere moments, along with 24/7 assistance and up-to-date travel alerts.

• Pre-existing medical conditions can be covered under your policy
• Includes coverage for lost or stolen luggage,irrespective of the mode of travel
• Offers add-on coverage for rental car damage and pet care so that you can cover all aspects of your trip
• Just 1 style of policy
• Claims documentation can be quite extensive

Arch RoamRight Travel Insurance provides extensive options for trip insurance, including medical travel coverage. RoamRight offers a comprehensive mobile app and online platform that makes purchasing and managing a policy super easy. Travelers can quickly purchase a policy online, and policy details can be monitored on the company’s app. Policies are available with coverage for trip cancellations, baggage delays, emergency evacuations and more.

RoamRight offers its users a comprehensive mobile app and online portal they can use to plan their trip. The app is equipped with everything from safety warnings to travel documents. Though the company’s plan options may be overwhelming for those who have never bought travel insurance before, RoamRight offers a policy choice for every traveler. 

Parents can purchase the Pro Plus plan, which includes 1 child per each adult.

• Comprehensive mobile app and online platform
• Multi-policy coverage options available for frequent travelers
• 1 child included on Pro Plus plan for every adult plan purchased
• Some (but very few) geo restrictions on product
• Comparing plans can be overwhelming

One of your cheapest insurance options for traveling with children is Travelex . The company’s Travel Select package includes coverage for children 17 and under for no additional cost. This protection isn’t included with the Travel Basic package, so it’s cheaper for families with even a single child to opt for more coverage.

Select plans are affordable from the outset but you can also customize your plan with add-ons for as little as $10 each. You can get upgrades for almost anything, including coverage for rental car collisions, an additional $50,000 worth of medical coverage and even coverage for extreme sports. Select plans from Travelex start at just $28 per family and include up to $50,000 worth of emergency medical coverage. You can get 100% of your trip reimbursed if you need to cancel thanks to an emergency and Select plans even include cancellation reimbursements if you need to skip your trip for business reasons.

Emergency medical evacuation coverage extends to $500,000 and 24/7 travel insurance is also included. Though Travelex’s Basic packages leave something to be desired, its Select plans are affordable and worth the upgrade — especially if you’re traveling with children.

• Instant quote online
• COVID-19 coverage (restrictions apply)
• 24/7 assistance
• Less plan options than some other providers

Plans from World Nomads are comprehensive and affordable. A 25-year-old who travels to Indonesia for a week will pay between $70 to $110 to ensure his trip. World Nomads’ plans come in two packages — Standard and Explorer — and both include coverage for extreme sports. Standard packages include coverage for injuries stemming from rock climbing to indoor river boarding and from gymnastics to deep-sea fishing. Explorer plans cover almost any physical activity you can think of, from running with the bulls in Spain to hang gliding over the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Both plans include up to $100,000 worth of coverage for emergency medical coverage, making World Nomads a great choice for active explorers. One of the most unique features of World Nomads’ plans is its compassionate and proactive multilingual travel assistance. When you call its 24/7 hotline, a team member will do more than help you file a claim. He or she will assist you in locating local physicians and dentists, arrange and pay for transportation to a hospital, including an escort if you’re seriously injured and even arrange for transportation home if you need it.

Policies from World Nomads are recommended for particularly active adventurers or those who are traveling to an area in which English isn’t commonly spoken.

• Flexible coverage for adventure activities
• Easy online claims process
• Coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions
• Emergency medical and evacuation coverage
• Ability to extend coverage while traveling
• Limited coverage for pre-existing medical conditions
• Some adventure activities may not be covered
• Limited coverage for electronics and valuables

Choosing a plan from Allianz Global Assistance can save you both time and money. Unlike most other competitors whose policies max out at 90 days abroad, Allianz has coverage options for trips up to 180 days long. If you’re planning a multi-leg backpacking trip or you’re studying abroad, Allianz might be your first choice for insurance coverage.

Like Travelex, Allianz Global Assistance OneTrip Premier plan includes free coverage for children age 17 and under, though it’s important to note that this coverage isn’t included in cheaper Allianz low-tier plans. Even Premier plans are exceptionally affordable — single traveler Basic plans begin at just $50 and a family of 4 can get a week-long Premier plan for just under $120. Allianz Global Assistance is also one of the only travel insurance providers that offer annual multi-trip plans under a single renewable policy, which makes it a convenient choice for travelers who visit international destinations more than once a year.

Allianz’s website and quote process are intuitive and quick, and you can protect your trip in as little as 10 minutes. Allianz’s Premier plan only covers up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage per insured, but travelers exploring with children or those who need protection for longer trips might opt for Allianz’s lower prices and convenience.

• Coverage provided by Allianz Global Assistance
• Covers trips up to 365 days
• Wide range of plans
• Low coverage limits

Travel insurance adds financial protection to your trip by helping you get some or all of your money back if you have to cancel your trip. Depending on the specifics of your policy, you can be reimbursed for missed flights, hotel stays, down payments on excursions and more. You may be protected from a few scenarios:

• Missing a connecting flight
• Having to cancel your entire vacation in light of an emergency
• Getting sick during your trip and returning home early
• Weather causing the delay or cancellation of your flight or cruise
• Lost baggage
• Losing a passport, visa or other important travel documents

Your insurance company could provide you with compensation to cover return flights or make up for lost bookings.

It’s important to do your research and make sure you’re choosing the best policy for you. Here are some of the things that you should look for when you compare travel insurance plans.

When you’re looking for an affordable travel insurance plan, one of the first things you should look at is your deductible . The deductible is the amount that you have to pay when you file a claim before your insurance kicks in and covers the rest of the cost. Make sure you can afford both the deductible and the premium before you choose a policy.

You’ll see that your policy includes a limit on how much you can get back maximum for a single claim when you buy travel insurance. Look for policies with at least $50,000 in coverage, especially for medical emergencies.

You might not be able to wait 12 hours for your insurance provider’s office to open when you’re traveling. Look for insurance providers who offer 24/7 claims reporting and assistance for emergencies.

Look for claims reporting line that offers assistance in both English and the native language of the country you’re visiting. This can help make it easier to communicate with the local emergency service and medical professionals.

No matter where you roam or which travel insurance plan you choose, read every policy thoroughly before you sign to be sure you're getting the best cheap travel insurance. Know what is and isn’t covered before you leave. For example, make sure you choose a policy that covers extreme sports If you know you want to go skydiving or hang gliding. Double-check to make sure that your plan includes coverage for business cancellations if you work in an industry that may need you at a moment’s notice.

Safety doesn’t end with getting a travel insurance policy. Consider enrolling your trip on the State Department’s Travel Registry website. Use the Department of State’s catalog of travel advisories to research your destination, noting any areas where travel is forbidden or regulated. Write down the address of the United States’ embassy in both English and the local language and keep copies on your person. With insurance and a little planning, you’ll be prepared for a safe and secure trip abroad.

Does travel insurance cover my medical expenses?

This depends on your plan, but some travel insurance offers coverage for medical expenses. Be sure to review the terms of your policy to know for sure.

Is travel insurance worth it?

Oftentimes, yes. Insuring your trip and related expenses can be extremely useful when plans get cancelled or changed last minute.

Can I purchase cheap travel insurance for a single trip or multiple trips?

Many cheap travel insurance providers offer options for both single trip and multiple trip coverage. Multiple trip coverage is often more cost-effective for frequent travelers, while single trip coverage may be more affordable for occasional travelers.

About Sarah Horvath

Sarah is an expert in the insurance, investing for retirement and cryptocurrency space.

June 1, 2020

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Confused about entry requirements for your destination? Our  interactive map shows current travel rules and restrictions for each destination, including info on COVID-19 testing, necessary travel documents and quarantine periods.

Find out how our  Epidemic Coverage Endorsement can protect your next trip from certain losses related to COVID-19.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Because sometimes..., you have to cancel a trip last-minute..

Travel insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs — including vacation rentals, car rentals, hotels and flights — if you have to cancel for a covered reason.

Travel delays leave you stranded.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for eligible meals, accommodation and transportation expenses during a covered delay.

You get sick or hurt when you're far from home.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling. We can even arrange and pay for a medical evacuation if needed.

Fender-benders are unavoidable.

Renting a car means taking on a big financial risk; even a tiny scrape can cost you hundreds. Low-priced rental car insurance lets you drive worry-free.

You need help in a hurry.

Whether you're planning a week-long road trip or a weekend getaway, you never know what might happen. Travel insurance gives you access to our 24-Hour Assistance hotline for expert, personalized support in a crisis.

Why go with Allianz Travel Insurance?

As a world leader in travel protection, we help more than 70 million people answer the call of adventure with confidence every year.

We're Protecting You

From protection for trip cancellation to medical bills abroad, our benefits are designed to help you explore reassured.

We're There For You

We've got your back with award-winning 24/7 assistance and a worldwide network of prescreened hospitals to help you get the right care.

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From our Allyz ® TravelSmart app to proactive SmartBenefits, we innovate for the way you travel today - and tomorrow.

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LATEST COVERAGE ALERTS

The events listed below are considered "known and foreseeable" for travel insurance purposes on the date listed next to the event. Please consult your policy for more information.

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

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

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• Travel Insurance

Best Travel Insurance Companies & Plans in 2024

On This Page

• Key takeaways

Compare best travel insurance companies

Our picks for the top travel insurance plans of 2024, how we selected the best travel insurance, what is travel insurance & how does it work, what type of travel insurance do i need, types of travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover, what isn’t covered by travel insurance, how much is travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, when should i buy travel insurance, travel insurance faq.

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Related topics

• Travel insurance is definitely worth the expense , especially when your trip is to a foreign country where US medical insurance may not cover you if there is an accident.
• By researching the top-selling travel insurance policies of the last year and studying the coverage levels, we concluded that the best travel insurance plans come from Seven Corners, Generali, Tin Leg, IMG, & Trawick. ( Skip ahead to view these plans )
• Over the last year, these plans were the most popular plans among visitors and stand out for their robust coverage and affordability .
• Each of them represents great value for the money and is rated A or better for its financial strength, meaning they are safe to book with.
• When opting for travel insurance, everyone wants the best plan possible. However, the definition of what’s best can change depending on the type of trip you are taking, the coverage offered, limits, and more. Therefore, we made sure that all of the plans listed below are great choices for travelers of any age, trips foreign & domestic, and cover diverse travel scenarios.
• We recommend using a comparison tool to save time and get quotes from multiple providers at once. This will allow you to review policies and prices side-by-side to make sure are getting the best plan for your needs at a fair price.

“Best” can mean many different things when it comes to travel insurance. However, opting for the most comprehensive plans is always a good bet.

All of the plans we chose for our best travel insurance list include solid coverage for each of the following scenarios:

• Emergency medical care
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Repatriation
• Accidental death & dismemberment
• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• COVID-19 coverage
• Travel delays (for you & your items)
• Damage or loss of baggage & belongings

Below you can see the top travel insurance policies and providers for this year as well as a detailed overview of why we chose them, what the plan includes, and who we think it best fits.

Apart from this, we will also cover

• How these plans work & what you need to know
• What to look for when you go to buy
• Where to compare plans to ensure you get the best deal

Without further ado, here is our list of top providers and why we like them.

Our top picks for the best travel insurance

• Seven Corners: Best Overall
• Faye Travel Insurance: Best for Customer Service
• Tin Leg: Best for "A Bit of Everything"
• IMG: Best for International Coverage on a Budget
• Trawick International: Best for Overall High Coverage Limits
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Trips Within North America

Best Overall

Seven corners, why we like it.

Editor's take

If you are looking for comprehensive travel insurance, the Trip Protection Choice plan from Seven Corners is an excellent choice. In fact, the Trip Protection Choice plan is our top-selling travel insurance policy thanks to its high coverage limits, customizable add-ons, excellent 24-hour customer service, and a 14-day money-back guarantee. This plan is neither the cheapest nor the most expensive, but it offers solid coverage for an affordable price.

Trip Protection Choice plan can easily cover and reimburse you for things like:

• Overall trip cost
• Travel delays & stipends
• Baggage & equipment loss/damage
• Emergency medical expenses
• Accidental death or dismemberment
• Repatriation of remains

It’s also worth noting that this is the only plan on our list of the best travel insurance plans for 2024 that offers **non-medical evacuation coverage**.

The Trip Protection Choice offers extensive coverage for trip cancellation and interruption including a wide range of valid reasons for claiming trip cancellation and interruption benefits. It covers you for 100% of the trip cost if you cancel and 150% of the trip cost in case of interruptions. This coverage alone offers you incredible flexibility in case of unexpected inconveniences.

Regarding medical coverage, Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Choice plan offers $500,000 for emergency medical coverage and $1m in medical evacuation and repatriation coverage per person. It also covers medical expenses related to Covid-19. The plan’s primary medical coverage also means there is no deductible, and you won’t have to pay out of pocket if any medical emergencies occur during your trip.

The Trip Protection Choice plan also provides coverage for other travel-related incidents such as:

• Travel Delays: up to $2,000
• Missed Connections: up to $1,500
• Baggage Delays: up to $500
• Baggage Loss: up to $2,500

You can tailor your plan with optional add-ons to include coverage for Cancel for Any Reason, Interruption for Any Reason, rental car damage, sports equipment rental, and event ticket protection.

Keep in mind, that you also get 24-hour assistance service, providing round-the-clock support should you encounter any issues during your trip. With a free look period of up to 14 days after purchase, you can review your policy and request a full refund should it not meet your needs.

Read our full review

• Offers coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Money-back guarantee
• Cancellation & Interruption coverage standard
• Covers action sports & equipment
• Cancel for any reason not included standard
• Must meet waiver for pre-existing conditions to be covered

Best for Customer Service

Faye Travel Insurance

Faye is a new travel insurance disruptor that offers an innovative solution to travel insurance with a digital-first approach. What sets them apart is their user-friendly solution to a traditionally bureaucratic system. With Faye, users can manage everything online or via the Faye app – including the entire booking and claims process. Although it’s a newer provider in the travel insurance industry, Faye is already rising as a fan favorite among young, tech-savvy travelers and digital nomads who want quick, convenient, and reliable travel insurance without having to go through an agent.

Apart from their online-first approach, Faye is easy to use and caters to all types of travelers including those who may want help via phone support.

Another feature that sets Faye apart from the competition is their plan offerings. Faye offers one base plan with an array of comprehensive coverage and optional add-ons to customize your plan.

Potential Add-ons include:

• Rental car care
• Cancel for any reason
• Vacation rental damage
• Adventure & extreme sports

If you are looking for a convenient and cost-effective way to insure your vacation, consider opting for Faye travel insurance. *Note: Coverage limits and availability may vary by state of residence.

• Friendly agents
• Easy-to-use mobile app
• Fast reimbursements for eligible claims
• Prompt replies to questions
• Long wait times for reimbursement
• Difficulty reaching Faye outside of email & virtual chat

Best for "A Bit of Everything"

The Tin Leg Gold plan is our 3rd most popular travel insurance policy of 2024. It continually ranks as one of the cheapest policies but offers high medical benefits and comprehensive cancellation coverage. This plan is specifically designed for travelers who want coverage for a bit of every scenario while traveling. However, it places high importance on your health while traveling.

The Gold plan’s impressive medical coverage includes a $500,000 limit for both primary emergency medical assistance and medical evacuation assistance – ensuring you can get the treatment you need and are returned home safely should anything happen while away. Best of all, the primary coverage means no deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses. Tin Leg will pay the bills for you.

Another major highlight of the Gold plan is its coverage of Pre-Existing Conditions. If you purchase Tin Leg Gold within 14 days of booking your trip and insuring the full trip cost, pre-existing conditions will be covered under the plan limits. This makes the plan great for older travelers or those who may have a flare-up.

At a glance, the following medical coverage comes standard:

• Emergency medical assistance
• Medical evacuation & repatriation
• Medical coverage for COVID-19 sickness
• Pre-existing conditions (when meeting waiver criteria)
• Sports & adventure (exclusions apply)

The great coverage doesn’t stop at solely medical care. Another strong suit of the Tin Leg Gold plan is the Cancellation coverage which can reimburse you for up to 100% of the trip cost if you cancel or 150% of the trip cost if your travel is interrupted – due to reasons included in the policy.

Examples of some covered reasons for cancellation include:

• Medical reasons
• COVID-19 sickness
• Inclement weather

Other notable travel benefits that manage to cover a bit of everything include coverage for:

• Travel Delays
• Missed Connections
• Baggage delay/damage/loss
• Sports gear/equipment delay/damage/loss
• Optional Cancel For Any Reason cover

However, if travel delay & baggage coverage are extra important to you , it’s good to note that this plan has lower limits for reimbursement than other plans on our list when it comes to these scenarios. That said, it also offers higher medical limits at a fraction of the price of other providers. So, it’s up to you and your needs.

With a 14-day money-back guarantee and 24-hour travel assistance service, Tin Leg Gold goes above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction and support. This policy truly stands out as a top choice for travelers who prioritize their well-being and want comprehensive coverage for their trips.

• Excellent primary coverage for medical expenses
• High limit for emergency evacuation coverage
• Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage available
• Comes with coverage for hurricanes and inclement weather
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available if purchased within 14 days of the trip deposit
• Baggage delay coverage requires a 24-hour waiting period
• Low coverage limits for baggage and personal effects

Best for International Coverage on a Budget

The IMG iTravelInsured Travel SE plan comes in as our 5th most-sold plan and is great for those looking for a budget policy with high enough coverage for international travel. It provides solid benefits for accidents & illnesses, baggage coverage, rental car damage cover, missed trip connections, and change fees.

In terms of medical coverage, this plan includes primary medical coverage with no deductibles. You’ll get limits of $250,000 per person for emergency medical coverage (that includes COVID-19 illness) and medical evacuation & repatriation coverage of $500,000 per person. It also covers Pre-Existing Conditions if purchased within 20 days of the trip deposit. Accidental Death coverage is provided with a higher-than-average limit of $25,000 per person.

The plan also provides comprehensive coverage for various scenarios relating to trip cancellation & trip interruption. You can be reimbursed for up to 100% of total trip costs for canceling or 150% of total trip costs for interruptions due to covered reasons.

Examples of covered reasons for canceling include:

• Medical Reasons
• Work Reasons
• Hurricane and weather conditions,
• Personal Financial Default
• Employment Layoff

For pet owners, this plan offers additional cancellation or Interruption benefits if your pet or service animal becomes sick, injured, or dies.

In case of travel delay, the plan allows you to extend the duration of your plan until you can return home. Other coverage for travel mishaps include:

• Baggage Delays
• Damage or loss of bags/personal items

Other benefits of the plan include rental car damage coverage of up to $40,000, a 10-day money-back guarantee, and a 24-hour assistance service. Several sports activities are covered under the plan as well as sports equipment.

Overall, the IMG iTravelInsured Travel SE plan offers extensive coverage at an affordable price, making it a top choice for international travelers.

• Purchase your plan up until one day before you depart
• Generous limits for trip delays, emergency evacuation, and more
• Pre-existing condition waiver available if purchased within 20 days of initial trip deposit
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
• Coronavirus-related medical expenses covered
• Plan gets notably more expensive with age

Best for Overall High Coverage Limits

Trawick international.

Several of the Trawick travel insurance plans rank among our top-selling plans for 2024. The Safe Travels Voyager plan is arguably the most popular among LA Times' readers thanks to its comprehensive coverage. With its higher-than-average coverage limits over many categories, Trawick Safe Travels Voyager is the ideal choice for travelers seeking comprehensive travel insurance with high levels of policy limits.

Starting with its medical benefits, it offers a good primary medical coverage limit of up to $250,000 per person for medical emergencies and covers up to a whopping $1,000,000 per person for medical evacuation and repatriation. The plan is not the cheapest on the list, but these levels make it ideal for global international travel and even travel to remote locations. The plan can also cover pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy the plan within 21 days of the initial trip deposit and before the final trip payment. This means it’s also a solid option for older travelers or those with existing health conditions.

Other key benefits include cancellation coverage, which can reimburse you for up to 100% of the trip cost, and interruption coverage which can reimburse you for up to 150% of the trip cost if your trip is cut short. Cancellation and interruption cancellation for COVID-19 sickness also come standard.

As with other plans, examples of covered reasons for canceling can include:

• Hurricane & Weather
• Financial Default

This plan also has the highest reimbursement limits for travel delays and baggage issues of any on our list of best travel plans for . You also be reimbursed for travel delays (up to $3,000 per person) and missed connections on cruises and tours (up to $1,000 per person).

Loss or delay of baggage is always a concern while traveling, but with this plan, you can rest easy. It offers coverage for:

• Baggage and personal items loss up to $2,500
• Baggage delay coverage up to $600 per person

Sports and activities are covered (with some limitations), and sports fees are included in the cancellation and interruption coverage.

Trawick Safe Travels Voyager plan also includes coverage for rental car damage up to $35,000 per person, a 10-day money-back guarantee after purchase, and 24-hour assistance service should you need help during your trip. Whether you’re looking for medical coverage, trip cancellation protection, or assistance services, this plan has you covered. Travel with confidence knowing you’re protected with Trawick Safe Travels Voyager.

• Excellent medical coverage limits
• Up to $2,500 baggage coverage included
• Covers quarantine accommodation expenses
• Baggage delay coverage only kicks in after 8 hours
• CFAR only covers 75% of the insured trip cost

Best for Trips Within North America

Generali global assistance.

The Standard plan from Generali Global Assistance is our 2nd most popular plan for 2024 and is a top choice if you're seeking a cost-effective way to protect your trip. What sets this plan apart is its budget-friendly nature, making it accessible to a variety of travelers. Despite the cheap price, this comprehensive plan still offers luxurious perks and benefits and you are protected throughout every step of your journey.

To start, the Standard plan comes with comprehensive secondary emergency medical coverage with limits of $50K per person and medevac & repatriation coverage of $250k per person. While these limits are a bit lower than other plans and offer secondary coverage, they are great for travel within the U.S. or to neighboring countries. Note: the secondary medical coverage means you will be asked to pay the bills first and wait for reimbursement, therefore this plan is ideal for domestic travel or as a supplementary plan to your existing U.S. health insurance while you travel.

Highlights of medical coverage include:

• Emergency medical and dental assistance
• Medical treatments relating to COVID-19
• Medical Evacuation
• Accidental death & dismemberment while flying (exceptionally high coverage)

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption coverage also come standard with this plan. If you need to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons, you can receive reimbursement for 100% of the trip cost, or up to 125% of the trip cost if your trip is interrupted.

Examples of covered reasons for cancellation include:

• Medical Reasons / Covid-19 Sickness
• Weather conditions / Hurricanes

Other notable benefits include coverage for your pet travel companion, travel delays, missed connections (for cruises and tours), identity theft while traveling, baggage delay/damage/loss, and emergency assistance and transportation. With this plan, you have free access to worldwide 24-hour emergency phone support and concierge services that can help book events, tours, restaurants, rental cars, offer advice, organize pick-ups, etc.

Whether you need assistance with medical emergencies or require guidance during your travels, the Generali Global Assistance team is ready to help. For added peace of mind, Generali Global Assistance offers a 10-day Money Back Guarantee.

What you won’t get standard with this plan is an extension of coverage if you are delayed or fall ill while traveling, reimbursement for rental car damage, or coverage for sports or adventure activities. However, you can pay extra to customize your plan with optional coverage add-ons to include coverage for Cancel for Any Reason and Interruption for Any Reason.

• Lowest cost of all Generali Global Assistance plans
• Telemedicine included
• Lower coverage than other Generali plans
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered by the Standard plan
• No coverage for accidental death and dismemberment during on-land travel

Compare Plan Coverage

Medical emergencies, cancellation, interruptions & delays, accidental death, sports & adventure, other benefits.

• To answer the burning question of what is the best travel insurance? , we started by looking at the most sold plans over the last year – understanding that plans are popular for a reason.
• From there, we selected only travel insurance providers that have 4-stars and above for customer satisfaction and a financial strength rating of A or better.
• From there, we compared policy details, coverage options, and limits versus the average price of the plan to highlight plans offering the best value.
• We eliminated plans that offered low coverage limits that wouldn’t be suitable for international trips.
• We only chose plans that offered suitable coverage limits in all of the following areas: COVID , medical treatment, evacuations, accidental death, repatriation, delays, interruptions, cancellations, & damage to belongings.
• Each provider stands out for different reasons including price, medical coverage limits, etc. However, we made sure that all of the providers and plans offered robust coverage levels for travelers of all ages and conditions, travel locations, and various travel scenarios.
• In the end, the plans speak for themselves as they all are great options for travel coverage.

Travel insurance is a type of insurance product that can provide reimbursement when a trip is canceled, interrupted, or ruined for a reason that is stipulated in the insurance plan.

As an additional perk, travel insurance can also provide financial reimbursement for travel-related issues like lost luggage or missed connections, or even a missed cruise due to a travel delay.

Other benefits of travel insurance can include access to 24-hour travel assistance services and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Ultimately, travel insurance aims to make the traveler whole when they suffer financial losses due to a covered reason included in their plan.

Some travel insurance plans will pay out immediately, meaning you don’t have to pay any costs upfront and wait for reimbursement. Other travel insurance plans require you to eat the costs initially and then receive a reimbursement for your expenses after submitting a claim.

Travel insurance may seem like a sunk cost if you never have to use your plan, but it can absolutely save your finances if you wind up needing coverage.

This is especially true in instances where the stakes are high, such as having a medical emergency or needing pricey medical evacuation coverage when you’re overseas in France or Spain for example.

Spending a few hundred bucks or less to insure your trip can also help you gain peace of mind, as well as the chance to enjoy a worry-free vacation. This is especially true for older travelers, as seniors benefit most from travel insurance .

At the end of the day, there are many reasons travel insurance is worth it and very few reasons to go without it.

The type of travel insurance coverage you need will vary based on the trip you plan to take.

For example, you may not need to worry about travel health insurance if your trip is U.S.-based and you already have your own health coverage.

Likewise, you may not technically need baggage insurance if you are driving to your destination and you plan to handle your bags at all times. Another example is when you carry on your bags for a flight.

This said, most travelers need to have basic coverage in place for most types of trips.

At the bare minimum, this includes coverage with sufficient limits for:

• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Emergency medical and dental expenses
• Lost and delayed baggage
• Trip delays

Here is a look at the most common types of travel insurance available and what each type covers.

The main types of travel insurance coverage you can buy are:

• Travel Assistance Services
• Travel Health Insurance
• Emergency Medical Assistance
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Extreme Adventures & Sports
• Trip Cancellation, Interruption, or Delay
• Cancel for Any Reason
• Baggage & Belongings
• Rental Car Coverage

Below, we’ve broken down these types of travel insurance in greater detail with explanations of what they cover.

What travel insurance covers depends on the type of travel insurance you choose.

When buying travel insurance, you’ll typically find plans with multiple types of coverage. Here we explain the common types and what they cover.

Travel assistance services coverage

This is the most basic type of travel coverage. Travel assistance services are usually offered on a 24-hour basis, meaning you can call a hotline for help any time you need it, even if it’s late at night in the Dominican Republic This coverage can supply emergency translation services, help with setting up medical care and evacuation, or provide other travel assistance services needed at the last minute.

Travel health insurance coverage

Travel health insurance pays for medical bills when you become sick or injured during a trip. This coverage is crucial if you are planning a trip away from home where your own health insurance plan will not apply.

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation, and repatriation coverage

Emergency medical evacuation insurance can help pay for emergency transportation to the nearest hospital or clinic, even if that transportation requires a flight in a plane or a helicopter. Repatriation coverage can help pay to transport the body home for burial if you or an insured family member pass away during a covered trip.

Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage

Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance reimburses you or your family if you pass away or become dismembered during an accident. In addition to the death benefit, this coverage can apply if you lose a limb, as well as your sight or hearing during a trip.

Coverage for extreme adventure sports

This type of travel insurance covers high-risk sports you might do during a trip, whether that includes climbing, hang gliding, scuba diving, or other extreme activities. Sometimes even riding a motorcycle on a trip can fall under this category, which varies by plan.

Trip cancellation, interruption, and delay coverage

Trip cancellation insurance kicks in when a trip gets canceled for a reason covered in the plan. Trip interruption insurance comes into play when a trip must be interrupted after it begins. In either case, this trip protection reimburses you for eligible pre-paid and nonrefundable travel expenses.

Travel delay coverage helps reimburse you for incidental expenses you incur when a trip is delayed. This typically includes meals and hotel stays that are required while you wait to depart.

With these plans, there are certain limitations set out in the plan that denotes what type of circumstances you are covered for.

CFAR coverage

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage is an optional insurance policy that lets you cancel your trip for any reason you want. This coverage typically makes travel insurance cost 40% to 50% more, and it reimburses between 50% to 75% of pre-paid, nonrefundable travel expenses depending on the plan.

These plans are typically more expensive as they offer expansive coverage than traditional trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance.

Coverage for baggage and personal belongings

Baggage delay insurance and lost luggage reimbursement plans reimburse you when a common carrier loses your bags, or they are delayed for at least six to 12 hours (depending on the plan).

Where lost baggage gets reimbursed up to the coverage limits of the plan, baggage delay coverage pays a daily amount for incidental expenses that rack up while you wait for your luggage to show up.

Rental car coverage

Rental car coverage can be primary or secondary. Either way, this coverage can protect you against damage or theft that occurs when you rent a vehicle.

That said, rental car travel insurance may not apply to all types of vehicles, nor will it apply to every destination around the world. Also, note that rental car coverage does not include protection against liability. Therefore it’s always important to read the fine print when opting for rental car coverage as part of your travel insurance plan.

Annual or multi-trip coverage

While it’s more common to purchase single-trip travel insurance, it’s possible to purchase a multi-trip policy or an annual plan for long-term travel . Annual and multi-trip plans tend to cost more in general, but they help frequent travelers avoid having to buy coverage for each individual trip they take.

Now that we have gone over the different types of coverage, let’s discuss what things aren’t covered by travel insurance.

Each plan has different items that it won’t cover, so it’s important to read the fine print regarding what is not covered in the insurance plan you are looking to buy.

Here is a list of what is not covered by most travel insurance plans:

• Pre-existing conditions (unless listed as covered)
• Travel expenses associated with medical tourism
• Extreme, high-risk sports (unless listed as covered)
• Financial losses due to war
• Losses due to nuclear radiation or radioactive contamination
• Losses incurred while breaking the law
• Losses incurred while drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Losses incurred while causing bodily harm, including attempted self-harm

The average cost of travel insurance varies based on the age of the travelers, the total trip cost, the travel destination, and the level of coverage chosen.

To help you get an idea of the cost of different plans, we used Squaremouth to compare travel insurance costs for a trip to the island of Barbados for two 40-year-olds in September of 2024.

The travel insurance quotes we received were for a 7-night vacation with a total trip cost of $6,000.

From there, we got another international travel insurance quote for a trip to Italy for two 30-year-olds in September of 2024.

The quotes for travel insurance we received were for a 7-night vacation with a total trip cost of $4,000.

While these are just example costs for international trip insurance, it can help you see that there are many different factors that can affect how much travel insurance costs overall.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that there are many opportunities to get cheap travel insurance plans that still offer great protection. Feel free to have a look at that article for coverage options on a low budget.

Consider the tips below when deciding which travel insurance is best for you.

Decide what type of coverage you truly need.

You may have some types of coverage through other avenues, such as U.S. health insurance or a credit card. Check to see what type of additional coverage you may need. Research the types of travel coverage options available and decide which types are most important to you. This could vary depending on the type of trip you’re planning to take, as well as save you money by cutting out irrelevant coverage.

Review coverage levels, limits, & fine print.

Make sure coverage limits for plans you’re considering are sufficient, particularly when it comes to protection for emergency medical conditions and emergency evacuation. We recommend opting for at least a $250,000 limit for medical coverage.

Consider opting for CFAR coverage.

CFAR coverage that lets you cancel your trip for any reason at all . CFAR coverage is typically only available with premium travel insurance plans, or as an add-on to a traditional plan.

Opt for plans among the top travel insurance providers.

The most popular plans are chosen for a reason. You can quickly narrow your results using our list from above, or by doing your own research. However, it will be in your favor to choose from the most popular plans as these are typically the ones that have the best-proven track record among buyers.

Use a price comparison site.

We recommend using a price comparison site to research and compare travel insurance plans because they lay out the information in a like-for-like comparison. This can help highlight major differences in plans and coverage. They can also help you see pricing and coverage levels for plans that apply to your specific travel destination and dates.

Most travel insurance companies let you purchase a plan up until the day your trip departs .

However, you may get a better price on a plan if you shop around for travel insurance protection early on, or at least several weeks before your planned date of departure.

That said, time-sensitive restrictions can apply to certain types of coverage. For example, you typically need to purchase cancellation for any reason (CFAR) insurance within 24 hours to 20 days of making the initial deposit on your trip. This is because the chances of cancellation increase after purchase.

Where to buy travel insurance

You can buy travel insurance directly from a provider if you want to, but you can also rely on an easy-to-use comparison site to shop around and buy travel insurance online. This is our recommendation as a comparison site takes out the extra leg work.

Using a comparison site offers tons of benefits and helps you easily see which travel insurance policies are available to you. For example, using a comparison site lets you see how much several different plans cost side-by-side, and it can save you time and stress along the way.

Luckily for you, at LA Times Compare, we do just that so you don’t even need to leave the page to get a travel insurance comparison.

Our top picks for the best cheap travel insurance

• Tin Leg: Best Value Overall
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best for Basic Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best for Robust Coverage
• WorldTrips: Best for Travel Medical Insurance
• IMG: Best for Last-Minute Coverage
• Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company: Best Single-Trip Coverage

Our top picks for the best trip cancellation insurance

• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Add-Ons and Extras
• Seven Corners: Best for Premium Coverage
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Basic Coverage
• AXA Assistance USA: Best for High Coverage Limits

Our top picks for the best cancel for any reason travel insurance

• Battleface: Cheapest CFAR Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best for Premium CFAR Coverage
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Basic CFAR Coverage

Our top picks for the best travel insurance for seniors

• Seven Corners: Best Comprehensive Coverage for Seniors
• John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.: Best Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
• IMG: Best for Travelers Aged 80+
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for US Domestic Travel
• Cat 70: Best for Affordable Comprehensive Coverage
• AXA Assistance USA: Best for Active Seniors
• Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company: Best Cruise Insurance for Seniors

Our top picks for the best annual travel insurance

• GeoBlue: Best for Basic Coverage on Trips Abroad
• Trawick International: Best Value for the Money
• Trawick International: Best Overall for Comprehensive Coverage
• GeoBlue: Best for High Medical Coverage

Our top picks for the best cruise insurance

• Seven Corners: Best Overall Coverage
• Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company: Best Rated Travel Insurance for Seniors
• Tin Leg: Best Rated Travel Insurance Plan
• Travel Insured International: Best for Pre Existing Medical Conditions
• AEGIS: Best Budget Friendly Plan

Our top picks for the best covid-19 travel insurance

• Seven Corners: Best Comprehensive COVID Travel Insurance
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best COVID Coverage for Families & Adventure Travel
• Tin Leg: Best COVID Coverage for Domestic Travel
• Tin Leg: Best for High Customer Satisfaction Ratings
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Active Travelers with Equipment

Our top picks for the best travel health insurance

• Seven Corners: Best for Premium Travel Medical Coverage
• IMG: Best for International Travel Health Insurance
• Trawick International: Best for Comprehensive Coverage
• WorldTrips: Best for Flexibility

Our top picks for the best medical evacuation insurance

• Tin Leg: Best for Budget Friendly Travelers
• AXA Assistance USA: Best for Premium Comprehensive Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best Value

Our top picks for the best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

• Seven Corners: Best for Affordable Comprehensive Coverage
• Tin Leg: Best for Highest Customer Satisfaction
• Tin Leg: Best for “A Bit of Everything”

Can you buy travel insurance after already booking a trip?

Most people purchase travel insurance coverage after they have already booked a trip. More so, the majority of travel insurance plans let you buy a plan up till the day of departure. However, some types such as cancel for any reason insurance offer a restricted window of when you must purchase to be covered.

Is it worth it to get travel insurance?

Travel insurance is clearly worth it. After all, having a medical emergency overseas could easily cost tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. You could be stuck covering these bills out-of-pocket if you don’t have travel insurance, which could leave you in financial distress for decades to come. With that said, this answer can vary depending on your personal circumstances.

What happens if I don’t use my travel insurance?

If you don’t use your travel insurance, you won’t get a refund. However, you will have gained the peace of mind that comes with knowing you had travel protection for the duration of your trip.

Do credit cards cover travel insurance?

It’s possible to get travel insurance with a credit card , although coverage levels are limited in general. Also note that credit card coverage can be light or nonexistent when it comes to protection for medical expenses and dental coverage, as well as insurance for emergency evacuations.

Finally, note that you have to pay for each aspect of your trip with a specific credit card for its coverage to apply to your travel plans. In other words, having a credit card with travel insurance in your wallet isn’t enough.

Are cruises covered by travel insurance?

You can purchase specific travel insurance coverage that applies to cruises however most comprehensive travel insurance plans already cover this type of travel.

When can I purchase travel insurance?

You can typically purchase insurance for travel up to the day before your scheduled date of departure. However, some types may require you to purchase it within several days of your initial booking. Sometimes booking well in advance can reduce the cost of your plan.

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

Since the pandemic, most travel insurance plans now provide coverage for coronavirus. It’s still a good practice to read over the details of each travel policy you are considering to know for sure. Sometimes unexpected quarantine-related expenses are not covered, while medical treatment for COVID is.

Does travel insurance cover lost luggage?

Many travel insurance plans provide coverage for luggage that is lost while in the care of a common carrier (transportation company). Limits apply to this coverage, however, so make sure to read over your policy before you travel.

Does travel insurance cover missed or delayed flights?

Many travel insurance plans cover missed connections and delayed flights. This is especially true for travel interruption or travel cancellation insurance. It’s best to read over your policy details to find out whether you have this coverage and what the applicable limits are for each traveler and trip.

Is flight insurance the same as travel insurance?

No, flight insurance is not the same as travel insurance. Technically, flight insurance is a specific type of travel insurance that can be bought directly from an airline. While it might be convenient to purchase at the same time as your airline tickets, flight insurance may not be worth it . It generally comes with fewer coverages, and you will have far fewer options to tailor the plan to your specific needs than you would with a policy from a third party travel insurance provider.

Does travel insurance cover pregnancy and childbirth?

Most travel insurance policies will not cover many normal pregnancy scenarios such as childbirth, false labor, prenatal care, and several others. However, some plans will cover unforeseeable and unexpected medical complications related to pregnancy. This includes things like pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and hyperemesis gravidarum. If you’re pregnant, its important to check your policy to ensure these things are included. If you have more questions on coverages and risks, check out our guide to pregnancy travel insurance .

Holly D. Johnson is an award-winning personal finance writer who covers topics like insurance, investing, credit and family finance. As a leading voice in the travel and loyalty space, Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries over the last decade.

The author has also written extensively on the power of household budgeting, and she even co-authored a book on the topic. Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You’ll Love was originally published in 2017, and it teaches families how to use zero-sum budgeting to reach their financial goals. She is also the co-owner and founder of the family finance and travel website, ClubThrifty.com.

Johnson’s 10+ years of writing have focused on helping families make important financial decisions at each stage of their lives. The author also applies the financial principles she teaches to her own life, and she is currently on track to retire in her late 40’s with her partner. She currently lives in Central Indiana with her husband and children, and she is a regular contributor for Bankrate, CNN, Forbes, U.S. News and World Report Travel and many other notable publications.

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The Best Travel Insurance Plan in January 2024

I’m an insurance agent who reads the fine print so you don’t have to

This guide will show you the best travel insurance plans right now, and why they’re the best choice for your trip.

Sorting through up to 104 different policies from 22 providers is a lot of work. I have read the small print, compared plans, and chosen the best.

Trust a Licensed Insurance Agent

Travel insurance protects your money if you need to cancel your trip. It also covers emergency medical costs, travel delays, lost baggage, baggage delays, and more.

Criteria for my best travel insurance picks

I recommend the following minimum standards for your travel insurance plan, and will expand on each at the end of the guide. These criteria are mandatory for my picks:

• Cancellation covered for Covid sickness
• Medical emergency covered for Covid
• Emergency medical coverage is $100,000 min.
• Medical evacuation coverage is $250,000 min.
• ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ available (aka CFAR)

I recommend the above criteria, and my picks meet these standards. The following criteria are good to have if possible. I factor these into my picks for best travel insurance plans:

• Hurricane & weather cancellation coverage includes NOAA hurricane warnings
• Hurricane & weather coverage triggers at 12 hours or less
• Medical coverage is Primary (vs Secondary)
• Coverage available for Pre-existing Conditions

About the best travel insurance picks

On this page, I have selected a best overall plan for most travelers. Further down I have picks for specialty concerns like Covid, cruises, seniors, families, seniors, and budget-minded travelers. All recommended plans are from A.M. Best Rated reputable companies that specialize in travel insurance.

Other review sites just recommend a “top company”, but that doesn’t help you much. I recommend a specific plan so you get the right coverage, and to make it easier. You will see some of the same policies coming up in different categories because it’s just the best plan. I don’t accept payment to be listed on this page.

Best Travel Insurance Overall

This is my top travel insurance plan based on the criteria above, individual plan features and cost. It meets all the required criteria above, and all of the “good to have” criteria as well.

If I had to choose a single plan to recommend for most travelers, this is it. It combines right coverage, high coverage limits, specialty coverages, fair pricing, and they’re a reputable company that pays claims.

Worldwide Trip Protector- Travel Insured

• Covid covered for sickness cancellation and emergency medical
• $100,000 Emergency Medical (Primary)
• $1,000,000 Medical Evacuation
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available if purchased within 21 days of first trip payment
• Weather coverage includes NOAA hurricane warnings
• Travel Delay after 6 hour common carrier delay
• Unique family-friendly coverage for cancellation if your school year is extended unexpectedly.
• Good value, the sample quote below is about 8% of the trip cost– right in the average range
• Great for: Overall best plan. This plan has better coverage in almost areas, unique coverages, and is priced competitively.

Example quote $422 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes two travelers (both 70 years old) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

Best Travel Insurance for Covid-19

This is my top pick for Covid-19 coverage. This plan has coverage that specifically address Covid concerns like needing to cancel a trip, getting sick while traveling, needing to quarantine, and extra expenses to quarantine.

RoundTrip Choice- Seven Corners

• $500,000 Emergency Medical (Primary)
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available if purchased within 15 days of first trip payment
• Coverage can be extended 10 days if you need to quarantine at your destination
• High travel delay benefit of $2,000/person to cover quarantine hotel & meal expenses
• Great for: Covid coverage. This plan cover cancellation and medical for Covid, coverage can be extended, extra hotel costs covered, and more.

Example quote $430 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes two travelers (both 70 years old) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

Best Travel Insurance for Cancel For Any Reason Coverage

This is my top pick for a plan with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage upgrade. This is an optional coverage that extends your cancellation coverage beyond the standard list of covered reasons . This is the same pick as Overall Best above because even with the extra cost of CFAR it is still well-priced. Similar plans had less coverage, and even lacked some all-together.

• Includes “Cancel For Work Reasons” automatically
• Includes Non-Medical Evacuation of $150,000
• Good value, even with CFAR upgrade it’s still 12% of trip cost using example below
• Great for: Anyone looking for Cancel For Any Reason coverage. This is the same pick as Best Overall, and it’s a great plan for CFAR too

Example quote $608 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes two travelers (both 70 years old) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

Best Travel Insurance for Cruises

This is the best travel insurance plan for cruises. It has high medical and evacuation coverage, which is important while out at sea and in foreign ports. The Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available. It has excellent hurricane warning coverage, which many plans don’t have. Also has Itinerary Change coverage and coverage for Missed Connections.

Classic- TravelSafe

• Travel Delay after 12 hour common carrier delay
• Includes itinerary change coverage
• Very good Missed Connection coverage $2,500/person after 3 hour delay
• Great for: Best for cruises. This plan has cruise-specific coverage like Missed Connection, Itinerary Change, and hurricane warning coverage that makes it stand out.

Example quote $472 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes two travelers (both 70 years old) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

The best travel insurance plan is the same as for Covid-19 above. This plan is great for seniors because it has very high emergency medical coverage. The medical coverage is Primary, which means it pays first no matter what other coverage you may have. Cancel For Any Reason is available, which brings extra peace-of-mind. Pre-existing conditions can be covered if you purchase within 20 days of your first trip payment.

• $500,000 of Primary Emergency Medical, which is very high
• Pre-existing conditions can be covered
• Great for: Any seniors taking a trip because it has great medical coverage and extra features like pre-existing condition coverage.

Best Travel Insurance for Families

This is the best travel insurance for parents traveling with children. Families will have extra concerns to consider, and this plan covers families better at a good price. Again, all recommendations are from reputable companies that specialize in travel insurance.

• Missed Connection coverage $500/person after 3 hour delay
• Very good value, the sample quote below is under 4% of the trip cost– well below average
• Great for: Families concerned about delays, Travelex has a generous delay trigger and high coverage.

Example quote $192 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes four travelers (45, 45, 12, 10) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

Best Travel Insurance for Budget-Minded Travelers

Sometimes you want travel insurance but also need to keep your costs low. You can get good coverage for less money, but the coverage limits will be lower and some coverage might not be included. When I look for the best “cheap” travel insurance plan, I’m looking for most coverage & options at the lowest price. The tradeoff is lower coverage limits, and details like longer delay limits or Secondary medical coverage.

• $50,000 Emergency Medical (Secondary)
• $250,000 Medical Evacuation
• Hurricanes & weather covers delay of any length of time, which is better than other policies with 6-48 hour minimum
• Travel Delay coverage of $1,000/person is higher that comparable plans
• Looking at the example quote below, costs about 4% of trip cost which is below average
• Great for: Travelers on a budget that want the full coverage of comprehensive travel insurance.

Example quote $216 (includes all travelers): For the above plan, the example trip includes two travelers (70, 70) on a 15-day trip and a total trip cost of $5,000.

What does travel insurance cover?

Finding the best travel insurance means finding the right coverage at the right price. I’ve mentioned several coverages above, and will explain them more here:

Protection before you leave

Trip Cancellation Insurance This protects your trip cost if you need to cancel your trip. There is a long list of covered reasons for trip cancellation. The most common reason people cancel is someone getting sick right before the trip. It also covers death in the family, hurricane & weather, a house fire, quarantine, jury duty, terrorism, and more. The medical issues also apply to family members, so a parent getting sick and needing your care would be covered.

Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage Upgrade The list of covered reasons for cancellation includes most common situations. But, that list cannot include everything. Cancel For Any Reason insurance extends your cancellation coverage to “everything”.

You need to cancel at least 48 hours before departure and insure your full trip cost. You also buy in time (usually within 10 days of your first trip payment).

This upgrade has become very popular since the start of Covid, and I think it’s an important option to have. All the above best travel insurance plans have CFAR as an optional upgrade.

Protection while on your trip

Emergency Medical Coverage This covers expenses for emergency medical treatment while on your trip. This could be something like a slip and fall, a stroke, food poisoning, and more.

Your insurance from home may not cover you when outside your home country. Medicare never covers outside the USA. Healthcare in foreign countries varies in how they handle expenses. Some will not let you leave the hospital until you pay the bills.

Emergency medical coverage pays any expenses up to the policy limit.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage This coverage pays for medical transportation if you need it. It includes an ambulances to the hospital, an airlift from a remote location, or a medical flight back home. These expenses can easily be over $100,000. Even if your insurance from home covers medical expenses, it won’t cover evacuatuon.

Protection throughout your trip

Trip Interruption This covers your unused trip costs if your trip is cut short. The list of reasons is similar to Trip Cancellation coverage. For example: Three days into your trip, your mother has a stroke and needs your assistance. You skip the rest of your trip and catch a flight back home. Insurance would reimburse the portion of the trip you missed, and any extra expenses like the last-minute flight home

Travel Delays This covers extra expenses caused by travel delays . If severe weather or flight delays cause you to get stuck at your destination, it would pay for a few extra nights in a hotel, meals, or personal items.

This is the coverage that would pay extra expenses if you are required to quarantine for Covid-19.

Baggage Loss, Theft, or Damage This covers your baggage not only on your flight, but on your entire trip. It will reimburse you for personal items and luggage if your bags are lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip.

Baggage Delay If your baggage is delayed in reaching your destination, you might need extra cloths or personal items. This coverage reimburses you for these expenses.

24/7 Assistance This is the lifeline you call with any problems. The insurance company can help arrange medical care, transportation, overcome language barriers with a translator, arrange payment, and more.

Covid-19 Insurance: How is coronavirus covered?

The pandemic remains a concern for all travers, especially those traveling with children or elderly parents. The plans above cover cancellations if you get Covid-19 . A doctor will need to verify that you cannot take your trip. In this case, Covid is treated like any other sickness for trip cancellation coverage .

The best travel insurance plans also cover Covid for emergency medical treatment. This is important when you travel abroad where your insurance from home may not cover you.

Coverage details that make a big difference

Travel insurance policies have coverage and coverage limit– but there are more details to look for when finding the best travel insurance plans. Here are a few things I look for that makes some plans better than others:

Primary vs Secondary medical coverage

Having Primary coverage for medical emergencies is better than Secondary coverage. It means the plan will pay first, without needing to use any other insurance you may have. With a Secondary coverage plan you would need to use any other coverage you might have first. Then you would use the travel insurance coverage. You’re covered either way, but having Primary coverage makes it easier to file a claim.

Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage

Some policies have better coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. This one gets confusing, so I’ll walk through it step-by-step:

1- You can’t buy insurance to pay for something you already have, so insurance companies exclude pre-existing conditions.

2- Since many people have some sort pre-existing condition, insurance companies define a “look-back” period. For example: If a medical condition did not arise in your 180 day look-back period, you would be covered.

3- Some policies waive the look-back period if you purchase soon after your first trip payment

This is a “nice to have” coverage because it provides better protection.

Hurricane & Weather Coverage

Bad weather and hurricanes affect thousands of trips every year. Many trips and cruises go to hurricane-prone destinations, putting them more at risk. Your flight can be canceled or delayed, causing you to miss your boat.

What makes good hurricane & weather coverage ?

Low time trigger for delays – Trip cancellation coverage covers common carrier (airlines) delays of a certain length of time. Some companies set this amount at 6, 12, 24, or even 48 hours. That would mean your flight would need to be delayed for 48 hours before your cancellation coverage would apply. So, the shorter this time, the better for you. I selected 12 hours or less for the criteria.

Hurricane warnings covered – This is not a common feature in most plans, which is why 2/3 of the best plans include it. This extends your coverage because you don’t actually need to be affected by the hurricane, but you can cancel your trip with full reimbursement if the NOAA issues a hurricane warning. Note: you must purchase travel insurance before the storm is named.

What is the average cost of travel insurance

The average cost of travel insurance is between 4-10% of your insured trip cost. Based on the latest actual sales data, here is what travelers are spending on travel insurance, their overall trip, and the length of the trip:

• Average premium: $225.79
• Average trip cost: $5,010.37
• Average trip length: 17 Days

What is the cost of travel insurance based on?

The cost of travel insurance is based on the following factors:

• Cost of trip
• Ages & number of travelers
• Length of trip
• Coverage limits
• Optional upgrades
• Coverage details

The main factor in travel insurance cost is the trip cost. The more expensive the trip, the more risk the insurance company has if they need to reimburse you.

Older travelers will have higher premiums because of the additional risk of medical issues. Longer trips will cost more because there is more time for something to happen.

High policy limits for medical coverage will cost more than lower policy limits.

Upgrades like Cancel For Any Reason cost more. And finally, details like Primary medical and hurricane warning coverage tend to be part of more expensive plans.

Here is a summary of the cost of travel insurance from the examples above:

With the exception of the CFAR plan, everything is within the 4-10% range.

Why is the “family” plan such a low percentage of the trip cost? Because there are more travelers the cost of the trip is spread between all travelers, and therefore the risk per traveler is reduced. This reduces the insurance company’s risk exposure.

What expenses can I insure?

Travel insurance covers your pre-paid, non-refundable trip expenses . This includes can include:

• Cruise costs & shore excursions
• Organized tours
• Event tickets
• Airbnb rentals
• Car rentals

As long as your expense is pre-paid and non-refundable, it can be included in your insured trip cost.

It is important to spend a few minutes to gather all of your trip costs to make sure you don’t miss anything. If the expense is not included in your insured trip cost, you will not be covered.

When should I buy travel insurance?

My rule: Buy travel insurance within 10 days of your first trip payment.

Some travel insurance coverage is time-sensitive. This means you need to purchase your plan soon after your initial trip deposit . This period of time is different for each company. The lowest is 10 days, and some companies are as high as 30 days.

This is why 10 days is the safest goal for you. No matter which company, 10 days will put you within that time-sensitive window.

What coverage is time-sensitive?

Cancel For Any Reason coverage (also known as CFAR) is an optional coverage with some plans. Every company that sells CFAR requires you to purchase within their time frame. If you try to purchase after this time period, you will not be able to.

Pre-existing condition coverage is time-sensitive. This does not cost extra, but many companies will cover this if you purchase at the right time.

What is not covered by travel insurance?

The biggest misunderstanding with travel insurance coverage is what’s covered for trip cancellation. Many people think “I have insurance, so I can just cancel”– but it’s not that simple. There is also a list of exclusions in your travel insurance policy, and any claims related to these are not payable.

Trip cancellation coverage

The most important thing here is understanding the list of covered reasons for trip cancellation. It includes common events like sickness, injury, death, house fire, weather, hurricanes, terrorism, jury duty, called for military service, and more.

But it is not listed, it will not be covered (unless you have Cancel For Any Reason coverage).

Everything is spelled out in the policy certificate. It describes what is covered, who is covered, and all of the details.

Your policy certificate also has a list of exclusions. It explains situations where any claim is not payable. This list includes things like injuries sustained while on drugs, professional sports, hazardous activities like mountain climbing, suicide, acts of war, and more.

Is travel insurance worth it?

Many travelers ask, “Is travel insurance really necessary?”.

Most travelers that buy insurance say it’s for “peace-of-mind” because they are spending a lot of money on their trip, and/or going abroad and want to be safe.

Consider the amount of money you have invested in your trip and ask if you’re willing to lose that if you cancel. Many things can happen, but the most common is someone getting sick right before your departure. A sick child, parent, traveling companion, or even business partner can make you cancel. If that happens without insurance, you could lose all of your trip expenses.

Also consider your destination. If you leave your home country, you should always have emergency medical and evacuation insurance. Your insurance from home probably won’t cover you, and even if it does the limit might be low and they won’t cover evacuation.

Are these insurance companies trustworthy?

Yes. All companies featured in our search engine are reputable, and are regulated by the Division of Insurance.

Zero Complaint Guarantee

Every policy purchased through CoverTrip comes with a unique Zero Complaint Guarantee .

If you are unhappy with how your travel insurance claim is handled, Squaremouth’s team of licensed claims adjusters will investigate your case and mediate with the provider on your behalf. If the complaint is not resolved to Squaremouth’s satisfaction, they will remove the provider from the website and stop selling their policies.

Travel Insurance FAQs

Yes. Every travel insurance plan we sell comes with a Free Look period. This means you have a certain number of days to examine your coverage, and still have the ability to cancel for a full refund. This period is different for each company, but 10 days is a safe standard to keep in mind.

Travel insurance covers sudden and unforeseen events such getting sick, a death in the family, a hurricane, theft, a house fire, and more. Therefore, if you already know you will need to file a claim you cannot purchase travel insurance to cover it. The list of exclusions also includes losses as a result of war, professional sports, some hazardous activities, drug/alcohol abuse, etc.

Yes, travel insurance covers cruises. Some companies market “cruise” plans, which is a collection of coverages that are important to cruise travelers.

Yes, sort of. In the past insuring cruises insurance was popular but not necessary. For example, up to 70% of cruisers buy insurance, vs just 40% of regular travelers. But Covid has made travel insurance a requirement in many ports-of-call so it is necessary.

Yes. I recommend you purchase within 10 days of your first trip payment. If you do this, you have the most options and access to coverages like Cancel For Any Reason and Pre-existing Conditions. You can purchase travel insurance right up until departure, but if something happens that causes a cancellation, you need to already have coverage purchased.

No. Many credit cards advertise “travel insurance”, but it is very limited coverage. It can be ok for smaller trip expenses, but it lacks in comprehensive coverages like medical and evacuation. It’s better than nothing, but if you want to insure your investment get a separate travel insurance policy.

DamianTysdal

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

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The Best Travel Insurance Plans

The 13 best travel insurance plans.

• Squaremouth
• Insure My Trip
• Travel Insurance
• Travelex Insurance Services
• Insured Nomads
• Allianz Travel
• Quote Wright
• Travel Guard
• Seven Corners
• World Nomads
• Travel Insurance Center
• Axa Travel Insurance

Who Offers the Best Travel Insurance?

With daily news stories of delayed and canceled flights, lost baggage, and travelers stranded overseas in the middle of a natural disaster, it's easy to see why travel insurance is so important. Like most types of insurance, travel insurance is bought in the hopes that you'll never need it. But, for most travelers, it's worth the price for the protection it provides.

Have you ever thought that this coverage was just an unnecessary, added expense? That's fairly common: most people assume that they've got protection through their credit card company, their regular health insurance, even their homeowners' policy. In some situations, that may be accurate - but unless you know the details of those types of coverage, you're more likely to be left paying out-of-pocket expenses you thought were taken care of... but aren't included.

Tuesday, April 23rd

2024 Travel Insurance Plan Reviews

• One-stop shopping for policies from more than 30 providers
• All insurers quoted through SquareMouth have to comply with "Zero Complaint Guarantee" and have a high A.M. Best rating
• Four policy types available: standard single trip, annual/multi-trip, cruise, adventure/sports

SquareMouth has helped more than two million customers to find the right travel insurance. This service brings you quotes from more than 30 top names in the industry and makes it easy to compare their coverage and benefits. Over the last year alone, SquareMouth sold nearly $100 million in travel insurance policies.

Best selection of insurers and policies here

To make a fair comparison across travel insurance websites, we used the profile of two 35-year old travelers taking a $3,000 trip to Mexico in six months, paid in full on the date we requested the quote. Naturally, because SquareMouth is a referral service, we got many more options than with platforms that only offer policies from a single insurer: 56 that best matched our search criteria, out of a total of 102. The top five policies ranged in price from $106 to $208 and included plans from Trawick International, Seven Corners, Tin Leg, Generali Global Assistance, and IMG.

Information at a glance

What we really like about using SquareMouth is how easy it is to see at a glance what each policy has to offer. On our list, we noticed right away that one insurer was a Forbes 5-Star Travel Insurance Provider in the previous calendar year, another was featured by Forbes for offering superior coverage during the pandemic, and a third got kudos from Forbes for its travel delay benefits. All policies had a preview of the coverage for COVID-related cancellations or medical, trip cancellation and interruption, medical evacuation and general medical benefits. It was also very easy to click the "Compare Policy" checkboxes and see any travel insurance that we wanted to see side-by-side.

Easy to compare

Another thing we liked about SquareMouth is how easy it is to compare all the policies they match you with. You can sort the results by least expensive to most expensive, and use their side-by-side comparison tool to evaluate the details of each policy.

Take advantage of thousands of customer ratings

Another big benefit of using a referral platform like SquareMouth is being able to see hundreds - or thousands - of reviews from other travelers. Every quote tells you how many policies that company has sold via SquareMouth and since what year, plus ratings from clients. You can click on the "Full Policy Detail" and read what clients have said, while getting the complete information about any travel insurance coverage you're considering.

No upselling here

We also appreciate that this travel insurance service aims to "downsell" you: in other words, they'll recommend the lowest-priced policy that still matches the coverage you need. SquareMouth doesn't base its sales on commissions, so there's no reason for them to push policies that are more costly.

Terrific variety of travel insurance types

A final reason to consider getting your travel insurance through SquareMouth is the variety of coverage types available here. Our quote was for a traditional single-trip policy, but what if you're an avid traveler who wants to cover multiple trips in a year? Or you're taking a cruise? Maybe you're an adventurer participating in skydiving, an athlete competing in amateur sports competitions, or bringing expensive gear for skiing or scuba? When you get an insurance quote from a single insurer, the answer may be "no" , but through SquareMouth you can find policies from companies that will say "absolutely!" .

Disappointing drop in the BBB rating

All of these positives are why we were shocked to see that since our last review, SquareMouth's listing with the Better Business Bureau had dropped to a "D-" for failing to respond to 13 customer complaints. That's not a huge number, but we were puzzled to see that most of those were in the most recent one-year period. We wonder what SquareMouth's excuse would be for not addressing such a small number of client concerns.

Digging deeper

However, this disappointment should not be a huge factor in whether you use SquareMouth. Why? If you look at the BBB complaints, you'll see that they're all related to failures on the end of the insurer - not SquareMouth. So, they logged their complaints with SquareMouth, when really their complaints were with an entirely different company. Of course, ultimately your satisfaction with your travel insurance will depend on that insurance company.

Outstanding choice

Overall, SquareMouth is an outstanding place to shop for travel insurance. We love being able to see thousands and thousands of customer ratings - and this site offers more client reviews than any other provider we evaluated. With their large insurance network, you'll get a competitive quote and be able to check out other customer reviews and comments. Once again they earn high marks in our review of travel insurance providers.

• Travel insurance quotes from more than 20 insurance companies

Best Plans Guarantee

• Anytime Advocates program to help with the claims process
• "A+" rated and accredited by the BBB
• In business for over 20 years

Insure My Trip was one of the world's first comparison sites for travel insurance, founded in 2000. There are more than 20 insurers offered through Insure My Trip, with thousands of plans that might match your needs. You'll have a hard time finding another site that makes it easier to get the right policy.

Easy to get started

We started out the quote process with a sample traveler profile: a $3,000 trip to Mexico for two 35-year-olds, about six months in the future. Along with our residence, citizenship, and initial trip payment date, that was all we needed to do to get a matching list of policies.

Get three top recommendations right away

Right away, we noticed that Insure My Trip offers three top-recommended plans:

• Superior (most covered reasons for cancellation and interruption, highest benefit limits for travel delay, baggage, and emergency medical)
• Strong Value (excellent coverage at a moderate price)
• Economy (good coverage to fit most travelers') needs

That's a fantastic way to save time trying to compare individual plans: our fictitious travelers had more than 40 policies in "their" results list. Those three recommended plans were priced from $106.96 to $144 and came from Nationwide, IMG, and Berkshire Hathaway.

Use the filters to set any preferences

Whether you look just at your three recommended plans, or opt to view all of the ones that fit your needs, you can always click the "Compare" checkbox to see any policies side by side. We noticed that none of those three recommended plans offered "Cancel For Any Reason" , but customers can get the results rearranged by going to the filter at the top of the page. It defaults to "Recommended" , but when we selected "Comprehensive" we were given checkboxes to select Cancel For Any Reason, Cancel For Work Reasons, Pre-Existing Condition Waiver, and so on. Be sure to use this feature if there are specific things you want to cover.

Read customer reviews - especially ones that filed claims

We really like being able to read through customer reviews on each of the insurers quoted by Insure My Trip. It's particularly helpful to use the "filed claim" checkbox to display only the ratings coming from clients who put each service to the test. After all, it's easy for an insurance company to score a high rating when their customers' only experience is with buying the policy in the first place; not as easy to do when it's time to pay out for a covered expense.

That's part of Insure My Trip's Best Plans Guarantee. New plans and providers get a six-month grace period to sell policies and get reviews. Any insurer that doesn't demonstrate a good track record of meeting customer expectations loses its place on the platform.

Anytime Advocates service

While some travel insurance referral sites offer little to no help in working with the insurers when there's a claim, Insure My Trip takes the opposite approach. Their Anytime Advocates program offers claims assistance and dispute resolution, with the help of 40 on-staff licensed travel insurance reps who will intervene with the insurance companies when needed. According to the company, travelers have saved (or been reimbursed) more than $1.25 million through this advocacy program.

More than 20,000 five-star ratings

Insure My Trip earned an "A+" and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, with only eight complaints filed in the last three years. Customer reviews and comments on Insure My Trip left in other places are overwhelmingly positive, with more than 20,000 five-star ratings. They praise everything you'd anticipate: lots of insurers and policies to choose from, great support from the advocate team, and an overall smooth experience from quote to claim (when needed).

Great site for travel insurance needs

Insure My Trip has a lot going for it. They offer a wide variety of top-notch insurers, an easy-to-navigate website, and excellent advocacy when customers need to make claims. Along with a strong reputation, they continue to rise in our rankings. Insure My Trip is a great place to shop for your travel insurance needs.

• Compare policies from 15 different providers
• Easy to compare options and see feedback from other clients
• In business for more than 10 years

Travel Insurance gives you the chance to compare policies from 15 different insurers, all with a simple quote form. You can also take advantage of their informative articles before you ever even look at a policy, covering topics like whether or not Medicare will cover you while abroad or the differences between primary and secondary travel insurance coverage.

Easy-peasy to get a quote

To make a fair comparison across travel insurance websites, we created a traveler profile: two individuals (age 35) going to Mexico for a week, about six months in the future, and paying a total of $3,000. How did Travel Insurance do? We liked that once we entered the basic profile information, we were offered a series of filters to narrow down the choices among the 22 matching plans in our initial results. Those included a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver, cancel for any reason, car rental collision coverage, and so on.

Simple process to browse and compare policies

Even without selecting any of those filters, our results were easy to understand. The lowest-priced policy in our Travel Insurance quote was Trawick's Safe Travels Explorer Plus: it was 99% recommended by previous clients on this site (purchased by nearly 50,000 people) and affordably priced at $65.72 for both of our fictitious travelers. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Travel Guard's Deluxe policy came in at $339.42, was purchased by more than 11,000 Travel Insurance clients, and was 98^% recommended. For any plans we liked, we could click the "add to compare" checkbox and see all of the benefits laid out side-by-side.

No multi-trip policies quoted here

What's missing? The only aspect that jumped out at us was that we didn't see any options for annual coverage: there was nothing in the quote form that allowed for entry of multiple trips within a 12-month period. You'll have to use a different travel insurance website if that's the kind of policy you need.

"A+" from the BBB

Travel Insurance gets an "A+" and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, with only 6 complaints filed (and resolved) in the three years leading up to our review. Client feedback elsewhere is really positive, with 90% recommending this platform as a good place to buy a policy. But, remember that your real experience will be with the insurer of the plan you choose, and not necessarily with Travel Insurance itself.

Helpful support team

That being said, we were glad to see comments from clients who needed to make a claim and were able to get help from Travel Insurance to get a resolution. In several instances, Travel Insurance reps escalated issues or provided alternate contact information for the insurance company that moved things along more quickly.

No concerns here

Travel Insurance could be a solid starting point for buying coverage for your next trip. It would be helpful if they added multi-trip/annual coverage to their policy options, to be more competitive with some of the services we evaluated. However, we can still give Travel Insurance a big thumbs-up as a site worth using to compare policies.

• 3 plans to choose from: Travel Basic, Travel Select, and Travel America
• Options for post-departure medical coverage and flight-only plans also
• In business for 25+ years

Travelex Insurance is on a mission to provide "the best travel protection in the world while remaining true to the company's Midwestern values" . Headquartered in Nebraska and in business for over 25 years, this company is part of the Cover-More Group, a subsidiary of Zurich Insurance Group.

Just 3 plans to consider - with available upgrades

There are three main travel insurance plans to choose from here:

• Travel Basic: this is described as "extensive protection at a budget-friendly price" . You'll get up to $15,000 in emergency medical expenses (as primary insurance and no deductibles), up to $10,000 for trip cancellation/interruption, and several other benefits. You can also customize your quote with protection for car rental collision and AD&D. For our Mexico-bound case-study travelers (two 35-year-olds going for a week, six months in the future, for a total cost of $3,000), our premium was $136.
• Travel Select: this higher-tier policy gives you much more for your money. All children 17 and under are automatically covered when traveling with a covered adult. Your medical coverage jumps to $50,000, AD&D is included, and you can upgrade to include coverage for adventure sports, cancel for any reason, or add even more medical benefits. In the case of our sample travelers going to Mexico, the premium on this plan was $190 with no add-ons.
• Travel America: if you're staying stateside, this plan is the one for you. You can share benefits with up to 8 travelers, including up to $50,000 in emergency medical expenses, a three-day pre-existing condition exclusion waiver, car rental collision insurance and roadside assistance. This is only valid for trips of up to 14 days, but it's a flat rate premium of just $60.

Extra plans for other situations

When you're getting your quote, you may also spot links under the Plan Options for Post-Departure and Flight. Those will take you to Travelex's insurance policies for medical coverage after you've already left home, as well as an option for just covering your flights and nothing else.

Smooth site navigation

The quote platform here runs very smoothly, with just a few required questions and an easy-to-understand display of the options that match your travel plans. It was also nice to enter our information once and get every possible insurance plan, instead of having to input it over and over (like we had to do with some of Travelex's rivals).

Good reputation with the BBB

Travelex Insurance has a perfect score with the Better Business Bureau: "A+" and accreditation. We were pleased to see that there were only 25 complaints filed there in the last three years, which is pretty impressive for a company with a history spanning 25+ years.

Ignore the money transfer reviews

Don't get confused when you look for customer comments about this travel insurance company - because it often gets mixed up with Travelex for money transfers. They both seem to be operated by Zurich, but they're operated separately from one another. When we finally found the reviews from travel insurance policyholders, they were mostly positive. A few people had some issues with getting claims paid, but by and large they were handled well and within a reasonable amount of time.

Solid overall choice for travel protection

Travelex Insurance offers a nice range of policies that can cover just about every trip you could dream up. We feel especially enthusiastic about their Travel America option; how can you beat a flat rate of $60? While you'd obviously have more options by starting your search with a referral platform instead of going directly to the insurer, rest assured that no matter how you wind up with Travelex, you'll be in great hands for your travel insurance.

• 6 plans to choose from, including single trip, annual/multi-trip, post-departure, auto rental, and travel medical
• In business for 50+ years

RoamRight is the brand name of Arch Insurance Company: though the RR name has only been around since 2012, its parent company has been underwriting travel insurance policies for more than 50 years. You'll often find RoamRight policies quoted on travel insurance referral sites - like most of the comparison platforms in our review.

6 plans to choose from

There are six different travel insurance plans offered by RoamRight:

• Pro: this is your essential protection on a budget. You'll get up to $25,000 in emergency accident/sickness coverage and up to $250,000 for emergency evacuation. Sports and Hazardous Sports are available as an add-on.
• Pro Plus: this doubles the benefits mentioned under the Pro plan, makes your medical coverage primary, and gives you Cancel For Work Reason benefits if you get your policy within 21 days of the initial deposit. Available upgrades include Platinum (which enhances the benefit limits), Sports and Hazardous Sports.
• On Trip Plus: if you're doing some last-minute travel and you only need post-departure coverage (no trip cancellation), you can get up to $75,000 in accident and sickness coverage (primary medical) and up to $600,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.
• Multi-Trip Annual/Trip Cancellation: ideal for those who take more than one trip in a year, you can cover an unlimited number of trips in a plan year, for up to 30 consecutive days in each trip. (Not available in all states.)
• Travel Medical: if all you need is medical insurance and no trip cancellation coverage, this is the right plan. You can choose benefits ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 in accident/sickness medical coverage, with up to $100,000 for emergency evacuation coverage.
• Auto Rental Insurance Plus: protect your rental car with up to $35,000 in coverage for collision, $500 towards baggage, and no deductible. This can be used anywhere in the world, with the exceptions of Afghanistan, Costa Rica, Ireland, Jamaica, Mexico, and Yemen.

Higher-than-average premiums - but more benefits included

Obviously, many of those travel insurance policies wouldn't apply to the made-up scenario we used to compare the companies in our review: two 35-year-olds visiting Mexico for a week, leaving in about six months, for a total trip cost of $3,000. How did RoamRight do on that quote? We weren't super impressed: we were offered the Pro plan for $160 or the Pro Plus for $182. Of course, when you go directly to an insurer instead of using a comparison service, you're going to get more limited choices. The lowest-priced policy was still quite a bit more expensive than many rival insurers' plans, and only offered a maximum of $25,000 for medical expenses. We felt like we could get better coverage from a different travel insurance company. However, both plans included the pre-existing medical conditions waiver, which is often an extra add-on cost with other insurers; the Pro Plus plan also came with the Cancel For Work Reason at no extra charge, and that typically comes with additional fees with other companies.

BBB gives it an "A+"

How about reputation? Under the name of its parent company, Arch Insurance, RoamRight gets an "A+" and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. There were 40 complaints filed there in the most recent three years, but the "A+" means you don't have to worry about issues getting handled in a timely, professional way.

Positive reputation overall

We found similar feedback from clients who left reviews for this insurance company (many of which you might see if you use one of the travel insurance referral platforms in our review). By and large, customers say that these plans are priced competitively, the claims process isn't too painful, and that they got the coverage they needed.

Only one minor included per paid adult

The one downside we noticed here is that their policies that offer complimentary coverage of travelers under age 18 don't include all of the minors in the traveling party. Instead, RoamRight covers one minor per paid adult - so if you've got a family of two parents and four children, only two of the kids get their travel insurance for free. That's not quite as generous as some insurers who cover any number of children in the travel party.

A trustworthy insurer

Generally speaking, RoamRight is a trustworthy option for travel insurance. You'll have to decide if their policies give you the coverage you need, and we still encourage you to try a referral platform first (to see if there's another insurer that could give you more protection at a better price). However, if your research leads you to RoamRight, you can buy your policy with confidence.

• 3 travel insurance plans: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, and World Explorer Guardian
• Add-ons available for adventure sports, pet insurance, AD&D, car rentals
• Options for global health insurance for long-term stays outside of the home country
• All plans include a 12-month INC membership (even if you never file a claim)
• "A" rated and accredited by the BBB
• In business since 2020

Insured Nomads is the newest travel insurance company in our review, getting its start in 2020. The founders, world travelers themselves, asked what they would do differently if they could do it all again, and what resources they would have liked to have? Insured Nomads came from their answers to those questions, helping anyone who wants to leave the familiar behind and take an adventure - for days, years, or forever - with extra peace of mind and protection in their corner.

Don't miss this if you're working or traveling abroad for a long time

If you're looking to work abroad or have an extended stay outside of your home country. Insured Nomads' Global Health Insurance will likely make more sense than a traditional travel plan. Sometimes known as "International Health Insurance" or "IPMI" , it gives you coverage for emergency care as well as routine, preventative, and chronic care in the country (or countries) you designate for your plan. This coverage typically lasts a year and is renewable. Insured Nomads offers Global Health Insurance for extended trips or relocation, and you can sign up as an individual, a couple, or a family. We won't go into more depth than that, since far more people use travel insurance for one-off trips, but we invite you to visit the Insured Nomads site if this sounds like a good fit for what you're planning in the future.

Extremely affordable coverage

Let's take a look at the quote experience at Insured Nomads, through the "eyes" of our case study travelers: two 35-year-olds going to Mexico for a week, about six months in the future, for a total cost of $3,000. We entered the destination and then also had to select a coverage area (whether the US should be included or excluded). We could choose deductibles ranging from $0 to $500, and a maximum medical benefit of $250,000, $1 million or $2 million. We were also asked to check a box if we wanted coverage of adventure sports or marine activities (increased medical limits for activities like kitesurfing or scuba diving, operating or riding personal watercraft, and coverage of scuba equipment). The baseline policy for $0 deductible and $250,000 of medical coverage was a shockingly affordable $32.96 per person.

Hard to get a quote for a non-family member

It got a little trickier when we went to add our fictitious second traveler. It was no problem if they were a parent, spouse, or child of the first person on the policy. However, there was no clear way to include a sibling, friend, or other partner outside of those designated relationships.

Read the details before starting the quote process

When we went ahead and added the second traveler as a spouse, we were only offered the World Explorer policy for $65.92. The next page asked for payment: there was never a detailed list of what our policy would include/exclude, so if you're considering an Insured Nomads plan, you'll want to read up on the site before you start the quote process. Generally speaking, the World Explorer plans cover one trip (anywhere from 1-364 days in length) away from your home country, and it can be extended up to six months longer than the initial purchase. World Explorer Multi is for those taking more than one short trip within a year and returning home in between. Finally, World Explorer Guardian gives you the benefits of the primary Explorer policy but also includes Trip Cancellation coverage. We encourage you to click on the Policy Summary for any Insured Nomads travel insurance you're interested in - because that's where we found important details like it not being available for purchase from New York or Arkansas.

Excellent benefits with free INC membership

One novel aspect of Insured Nomads' travel insurance plans is a free one-year membership to INC. This app-based feature gives you travel comforts (like airport lounge access and VPN for cyber security), travel information (such as health and safety alerts plus visa and vaccination requirements), health and wellbeing tools (like telemedicine in multiple languages), and much more. Travelers say that the INC app is a huge benefit that made a significant difference in their journeys.

Strong reputation so far

Despite being one of the newest travel insurance providers in our review, Insured Nomads has already established itself as a reliable company with an "A" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. There were no complaints filed with the BBB at the time of this evaluation. We found a small handful of reviews from Insured Nomads' clients: almost all of them gave the company a perfect five-star rating, but we didn't spot any that had actually needed to make a claim.

Best option for long-term travel and digital nomads

We still feel comfortable giving Insured Nomads our own four-star rating. With more and more people deciding to work remotely - and taking advantage of being able to work from Berlin or Bali instead of their basements - the kind of travel insurance that this company provides will undoubtedly become much more prevalent. We'd like to see more detailed policy information given upfront, making it easier for prospective customers to know what they're getting (and what they're not), but in all other aspects this appears to be a worthy addition to the travel insurance industry.

• 10 plans to choose from, including single-trip, annual/multi-trip, and rental car coverage
• In business for 100+ years

Allianz Travel is a huge name in the insurance industry. Last year alone, this company assisted more than 55 million people with protecting themselves and their belongings while roaming the globe.

Single-trip, multi-trip, and car rental insurance available here

There are ten different types of travel insurance coverage offered by Allianz, all designated according to whether you're covering a single trip (OneTrip), multiple trips within a year (AllTrips), or just rental car insurance. On the main quote page, you simply choose which of the three plan types fits your travels, enter your destination, travel dates, age of traveler, state of residence, and total trip cost, and you'll be shown all of the policies that match.

Not as much for the money

We used a sample traveler profile of two 35-year-olds going to Mexico for a week, about six months in the future, and with a total cost of $3,000. We were given the choice among all three of Allianz' OneTrip plans, ranging in price from $130 to $286 for both people. We weren't really impressed by the coverage: even at the highest level (Premier), the available medical coverage had a maximum of just $50,000 (while many rivals go up to $100,000 or even $1 million on their top-tier policies).

Some options are missing or hard to spot

It also wasn't until we were on the final payment page that we could click to see the full Plan and Pricing Details. We never found an option with Allianz that would cover Cancel For Any Reason. And, it was only in the very lengthy plan details that we spotted that our policy automatically included a pre-existing medical conditions waiver, as long as our policy was purchased within 14 days of the first payment (and several other eligibility criteria were met).

Some nice perks

However, there are some benefits with Allianz travel insurance plans that didn't necessarily apply to our case study travelers but could be a reason for you to choose their coverage. For example, OneTrip Prime adds no-cost coverage for children 17 and under when traveling with a parent or grandparent. The AllTrips Executive plan covers your business equipment in the event of loss, theft, or airline delay: you can be reimbursed for equipment rental, replacement, and/or repair - and this policy will cover your personal travel/vacations as well.

"A+" from the BBB - despite 1,100+ complaints

You'll find the BBB's listing for Allianz Travel under their Global Assistance division: an "A+" and accreditation. There were over 1100 complaints filed with the BBB in the most recent three-year period, but an "A+" means that they were all responded to and handled professionally.

Mixed results on handling claims

Considering what travelers have said in other places, Allianz gets its fair share of complaints about slow claims processing. On the other hand, we found plenty of people praising how fast they were reimbursed for covered losses - from hotel and restaurant costs when return flights got canceled and rescheduled for another day to airfare and more, often getting payments to the customer within two weeks.

Good enough

All of this adds up to Allianz receiving the same rating that we gave them in our last review. This travel insurance provider is reliable, and they've added one more coverage type since our previous evaluation. We're not concerned that travelers will have big problems here, but there are other services that provide a wider range of options than Allianz.

• Guaranteed lowest price on policies from 12 different insurers
• In business for 20+ years

QuoteWright is one of several travel insurance websites that provides policy quotes from a variety of insurers: 12 here, to be exact. Many of them can be found in a standalone review, such as RoamRight, Seven Corners, and Travelex. QuoteWright guarantees that you won't get a lower quote on any of the travel insurance plans they sell, even if you go directly to the insurers themselves. Of course, with insurance prices being regulated by the state, that's not exactly hard for them to guarantee.

Relatively easy quote process

You'll be asked the standard series of questions here to get a quote on your travel insurance coverage: state of residence, destination, trip type, departure and return date, number of travelers, whether or not any payments have already been made, and the prepaid trip cost (either per traveler or the total). When we entered the details for our case study travelers (going to Mexico in six months, total trip cost of $3,000 for two 35-year-olds), we were given seven different policies to choose from, ranging in price from $136 to $286.10. The included insurers were Generali Global Assistance, Travel Insured International, and Travelex.

Use filters to sort the way you want

The policies defaulted to a display from least to most expensive, and the short summary was set to show the Trip Cancellation benefits for each plan. If some other coverage is more important to you, such as Cancel For Any Reason or Travel Delay, you can select that instead. Finally, you can either click to view any plan's details or select two or more to compare (which is probably our favorite way to look at policies because it gives you at-a-glance info on all of the available benefits, add-ons, and coverage).

Don't be confused by low ratings

One part that may confuse you as you browse the travel insurance policies in your results list is the QuoteWright rating. A low rating doesn't mean that the insurer is bad: it's just an indication of how favorably that particular plan compares with the rest of them in your list, or how much value you'll get for your premium.

No complaints at the BBB

We were glad to see that QuoteWright has an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. Better yet, there were no complaints filed there: an impressive feat for a company that's been around for more than two decades.

Not much user feedback

Otherwise, there isn't a ton of feedback for this travel insurance referral service. Do people get policies they love? Maybe, especially given that no one complained to the BBB about their experience, but that's not a lot to go on.

Not the best comparison site

QuoteWright isn't a terrible place to start your search for travel insurance, but there are other referral platforms that are much more comprehensive: more insurers, a wider range of policies and coverage, and more input from customers about those policies and their overall impressions when using the service. We didn't spot any red flags here, but you'll probably get more from one of our higher-ranked travel insurance companies.

• 3 main travel insurance policies available, with add-ons like Name Your Family bundling and coverage for Adventure Sports and Destination Weddings

Travel Guard is one of the most widely-used, travel agent-recommended insurance companies in the industry. Millions of leisure and business travelers alike use this company for emergency travel services, medical assistance, and other travel-related problems.

Policy names and inclusions have changed

If you've used Travel Guard before, things may be different now from what you remember. No longer named as Platinum, Gold, or Silver plans, the travel insurance policies here are now called Deluxe, Preferred and Essential - with slightly different coverages and new add-ons for adventure sports, destination weddings, and more.

No surprises in the quote process

Let's take a look at how those plans were offered for our sample traveler profile: a one-week trip to Mexico about six months in the future, with two 35-year-olds spending a total of $3,000. We had to start by entering our destination (though we liked that Travel Guard had quick buttons for the US, Mexico, and Caribbean as top locations), then indicating if we were taking an airplane, cruise, or neither. As we went through the standard questions - travel dates, number of travelers - we noticed the same wrinkle as our last review: to get an online quote, all travelers have to live in the same state of residence. In other words, if you're planning a family trip and your sister lives in Oregon, your brother is from Maine, and you live in Georgia, each of you will need to get a separate Travel Guard policy. However, that's an exclusion frequently found with all travel insurance sites - because prices are regulated at the state level.

Glitchy website = wasted time

However, that wasn't the only issue As we tried to enter the birthdates of the travelers in our fictitious party (not just the ages, as required by most sites), we kept getting an error asking for the date in a different format. No matter how we tried it, even using the little calendar icon and scrolling through to click on the appropriate birthdate, it wouldn't accept it. It took us nearly five minutes just to get the dates to go through (and we still have no idea what the site finally accepted, because the date looked exactly the same every time).

Keep an eye out for add-ons

We eventually got a quote of $102.50 for Essential, $197.27 for Preferred, and $339.76 for Deluxe. The biggest differences among the three plans were the coverage amounts and not the included items themselves. For example, medical expenses are covered up to $100,000, $50,000, and $15,000, respectively. We were surprised that only Preferred and Deluxe have the possibility of including Cancel For Any Reason, and you still have to pay for it as an upgrade. That optional coverage and all other options - Pet Bundle, Wedding Bundle (if your trip is for a wedding that's canceled; doesn't apply if you're the bride or the groom), Adventure Sports inclusion, and so on - will be displayed and can be included once you've chosen your base Travel Guard plan.

BBB gives it an "A+" despite 1,200+ complaints

The Better Business Bureau gives Travel Guard an "A+" rating and accreditation. There were over 1200 complaints filed there, which isn't too surprising considering how much of a market share this travel insurance company has (with thousands upon thousands of policies issued every month). The BBB's rating means you can trust that if you have an issue, it will be addressed and resolved appropriately.

Claims are frequently denied

That being said, it's discouraging to read through complaint after complaint (on the BBB site and elsewhere) describing how often Travel Guard denies claims. It doesn't even seem to matter what the cause is - airline cancellations, lost baggage, you name it - there are too many times when either something that should be covered isn't, or the policyholder had been led to believe that they had coverage when they actually didn't.

Claims process is a chore

Plus, communication from Travel Guard during the claims process is almost nonexistent - and that squares up with our own experience; making a claim for 8 non-refundable plane tickets canceled during the early days of the pandemic, we were only reimbursed in part for a few of them (with Travel Guard incorrectly claiming that the airline had refunded the taxes and fees), and it was rare for us to get any kind of update. It was a pleasant surprise when we received any money back at all - and even that trickled in sporadically, despite making claims on all eight tickets at the same time.

Not our top choice for travel insurance

We're disappointed to have to give Travel Guard such a low rating: many travel agents still recommend this company as their bread-and-butter insurance choice, after all. However, the overall customer experience - including our own - just isn't consistent enough to rank Travel Guard any higher than "barely average" .

• Many different travel insurance types: domestic and international trips, travel medical, student travel, group travel, annual coverage for multiple international trips, and health insurance for visitors to the USA
• In business for almost 30 years

Headquartered in Indiana, Seven Corners is a privately-held travel insurance and benefit management company serving the global market. You'll find a wide range of travel insurance types here, including domestic and international trips, travel medical, student travel, group travel, annual coverage for multiple international trips, and health insurance for visitors to the USA.

Not difficult to get an initial quote

It's relatively easy to use the Seven Corners site to find the right insurance for the travel you're planning. Indicate if you live in the US and if so, which state. In our case study of two 35-year-old travelers spending a week in Mexico six months out from the date of the quote, we then had to indicate that we were traveling internationally and we were given three options:

• RoundTrip: designated as the best option for most travelers, it protects nonrefundable trip costs for delay, interruption and cancellation; baggage delay or loss; medical expenses and medical evacuation. Our quote was $116 for Basic and $208 for Choice. Cancel For Any Reason could be added for an additional premium, and only the Choice plan included a waiver for pre-existing conditions. It's also important to note that the medical coverage on Basic was secondary (only pays after your regular health insurance has paid) while the Choice plan had up to $500,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Travel Medical: offers high levels of medical coverage for expenses and evacuation. COVID-19 coverage only included with the Plus plan add-on. This was priced at $22.40 for Medical Basic, $24 for Medical Choice, and $31 for Medical Plus. It was interesting that the highest tier, Plus, wasn't available to travelers older than 74 (but the other two covered any age). You'll definitely want to make sure this limited plan will meet your needs, especially if your trip involves flights or other non-refundable aspects.
• Wander Frequent Traveler Plus: cover multiple trips under a single annual travel medical insurance plan. This is a super-specialized type of insurance that only covers medical expenses over multiple trips within a year. You specify the effective date and the deductible you'd like to pay per trip ($0, $250, $500). Getting a quote here didn't really fit our sample travelers, and we noticed that on this plan, it assumes a second traveler is either your spouse or your child. A premium of $1170 for two people is an average price for this type of policy.

Time-consuming to re-enter information

It was a little clunky having to go back and re-enter our travel information for each policy type. We would have preferred to enter our details just once (such as traveler ages and destination country) and have it apply across all of Seven Corners' travel insurance offerings.

Top marks from the BBB

The Better Business Bureau gives Seven Corners its highest rating, an "A+" with accreditation. There were 84 complaints filed there in the three years leading up to this review, but the BBB's rating indicates that all of them were responded to appropriately and in a timely way.

Way too long to process claims

That's a little different from what we found elsewhere, and unfortunately not much has changed since the last time we evaluated Seven Corners: you'll get your policy quickly and the customer service team will be right on top of answering any questions you have. But if and when you actually need to make a claim, you'd better round up your patience - because the average time to process them was about 100 days at the time of this review. People are saying that filing the claim and seeing that it's been accepted for evaluation takes time, waiting for it to be accepted adds even more time, and then payouts may or may not happen.

Nice coverage options, but not quite enough service

We have to keep Seven Corners as one of our lower-ranking travel insurance companies: although we like that they offer coverage for both single trips and annual plans, that's no advantage if the claims process is a gigantic hassle. Keep Seven Corners as a last resort if you don't find the coverage you need with a more customer-friendly insurer.

• Geared towards backpackers, long-term travelers, and other adventurers
• Two policies to choose from: Standard and Explorer
• All policies underwritten by Nationwide Insurance
• Emergency assistance provided by Generali
• In business since 2002

World Nomads has been in operation since 2002. As you might guess from their name, this travel insurance company has a strong focus on exploring the globe - and protecting adventurers with simple and flexible policies. You may appreciate their commitment to giving back to the places travelers visit through micro-donation opportunities when you purchase coverage. And, given that World Nomads gets the endorsement of Eurail, Hostelworld, TourRadar, and Intrepid, it's obvious that this service is most used by backpackers, explorers, and other adventurous sorts - and maybe not the family of six taking their first trip to Disney World.

Fewer questions than most sites

To get a quote here, you'll start by entering your country of residence. You'll indicate your travel dates and destination(s), the number and ages of the travelers. For the sample profile we used - two 35-year-olds going to Mexico for a week, approximately six months out from the date of our quote - we were offered the choice of two policies. As a side note, it was surprising not to be asked for the total trip cost, the date we made the first payment, or if we had already paid in full.

Some important options aren't available here

World Nomads' policies are underwritten by Nationwide, and there wasn't much that impressed us between the Standard Plan at $122. 85 and the Explorer Plan for $197.88. Neither one included protection for pre-existing medical conditions or the ability to cancel for any reason - and there was no opportunity to upgrade or add on those coverages. Also note that if you need emergency assistance while traveling, that will be fulfilled by Generali; both Nationwide and Generali are often quoted by other travel insurance websites, and you can be assured that they're well-respected in the industry.

Lots of included adventure sports

If you're planning on participating in activities, sports or other adventures while traveling, make sure to click on the link for the "over 200 adventure sports and activities" to see if it'll be covered under the plan you're considering. For example, scuba diving to a depth of 165 feet is covered under both the Standard and Explorer plans, but deeper than that or cave/cavern diving requires the Explorer plan. The only activities we saw that are completely excluded here are Base Jumping, Mountaineering over 22,965 feet (7,000 meters), and working as a Mountain Guide.

Love/hate relationship with customers

How about reputation? World Nomads had received an "F" from the Better Business Bureau at the time of this review. The BBB said that rating was because the company had 23 complaints filed, and 15 of them received no response. That's never encouraging. In looking at the feedback for this travel insurance in other places, sentiment was fairly mixed. While 1,000+ clients gave World Nomads a perfect five-star rating, nearly 600 gave it the lowest possible one-star score.

Customer complaints

Some customers struggle to get covered claims paid (like trip delays due to stolen passports), while others seem to breeze right through the claims process and get reimbursed quickly. At least the complaints outside of the BBB seem to get a response from World Nomads' representatives - but there isn't often any follow-up to know if the policyholders wound up satisfied with the answers they got.

Doesn't deliver what they promise

If you want an insurance policy from Nationwide, you might as well just go directly to their site to buy it - or use one of the travel insurance comparison sites in our evaluation and see if that's really the best insurer for your travel situation. We're all for promoting world exploration and the peace of mind that comes with insurance coverage, but World Nomads just isn't doing a great job of providing that.

• Referral service offering policies from several different insurers
• Can get a personalized travel insurance policy recommendation from an expert, not just a computerized quote
• In business for more than 20 years

Travel Insurance Center is one of several services in our review that offer policy quotes from various insurers. In business for more than two decades, this company wants to help you find the travel insurance that's the best fit for your journey and your budget.

Get a quote online or speak with a rep

There are two ways to get a travel insurance quote here: use the Policy Picker to get a quick recommendation, or fill out the form under "Get an Expert Recommendation" to speak with a rep and get coverage tailored to your needs. We used the Policy Picker to get a quote for the travel scenario we applied across all insurance platforms: two 35-year-olds traveling to Mexico for a week, about six months out from the date we made the request.

Unusual questions and options in the quote process

The questions that Travel Insurance Center asked surprised us. Instead of specifying the exact destination, we only had to say if it was domestic, international, or both. We were also confused that we had to choose if we were interested in protecting our trip cost or something else, like travel medical coverage or emergency evacuation; what if we wanted "all of the above" ? There was also a somewhat strange dropdown under the "Search Plans" button that offered to let us browse their most frequently-searched plans - which included mysterious options like "Defense Base Act Insurance Plans" and "War Risk/High Risk Travel" .

Difficult to get quotes or prices

And that's where we ground to a halt. Every time we tried to search for plans, we got a message saying that our session had timed out and we should try a new request. Each time we did, we got the same result. Could that be connected to the fact that the main URL of the site wasn't secured (which was an internet-wide protocol several years prior to this review)? It took a lot of back-and-forth to finally get the site to render any quotes. We were finally given seven policies to choose from: three from Trawick International, two from IMG, one from Insuractive, and one from Travel Insured. Much to our aggravation, clicking on any of those policies took us to the insurer's main page, where we had to enter our information all over again. Also, only one of the plans had a price quote ($111.73), while all of the rest simply said "See Details" .

Hard to determine the company's background

Trying to research the background of Travel Insurance Center felt like a trip down the proverbial rabbit hole. Looking at the bottom of the page, we saw that the service belongs to a company called Senior Market Sales: an insurance marketing organization that helps agents and financial advisors make more money. Hmmm... Then we found an announcement that SMS was acquired in 2020 by Alliant Insurance Services, an insurance and employee benefits consulting firm. Alliant itself has an "A+" with the Better Business Bureau, but we're not sure that really reflects the performance of the travel insurance arm of the company.

No new ratings

Outside of the BBB, we found a surprising number of five-star reviews for Travel Insurance Center - but none of them were newer than 9 months old. Those high ratings definitely didn't reflect our experience during the quote process, and your experience will depend more on the insurer you wind up with than on TIC itself.

Don't waste your time here

While we can definitely appreciate the convenience of getting multiple travel insurance quotes with a single request, this service doesn't even come close to measuring up with similar referral platforms we evaluated. We can't think of one good reason why anyone would spend their time getting a policy quote from Travel Insurance Center instead of using a different comparison service - or just going to an insurer directly.

• Based in Ireland

Axa Travel Insurance has been in operation for more than 20 years. Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, the company handles more than 14 million assistance cases per year.

Not so impressive

Straight out of the gate, we feel we should tell you to expect a difficult experience all around if you try to use Axa for your travel insurance. We've got nothing against companies not headquartered in the US, but when you have to place an international call to get further information (or to make a claim), that's already a huge hurdle. Once you finally track down their "store" for US-based travelers, it's still hard to get impressed; at the time of this review, the site's copyright was over two years out of date.

Very few policy options

Still, we forged ahead with our sample profile (a trip six months in the future for two 35-year-old travelers visiting Mexico with a total trip cost of $3,000) and got a quote for one travel insurance policy: Silver, priced at $106. That plan included $25,000 in emergency accident and sickness medical expenses, but offered no pre-existing conditions waiver or the ability to cancel for any reason. This travel insurance policy seemed to cover the bare minimum, and we were frustrated by not getting any other options. Your search could be different, but our results here definitely didn't compete with other services we reviewed.

BBB gives it a "C" for not responding to complaints

We weren't really excited to see that Axa Travel Insurance had a "C" rating from the Better Business Bureau at the time of our review. That lower-than-average rating was from the insurer's failure to respond to two complaints and to resolve two others, out of the 21 in total that were filed over the last three years. That's not a huge red flag, but we can't think of a good reason why Axa would choose not to address those issues.

No one seems to have a good experience here

Sadly, client feedback in other places mirrors this negative impression. Out of nearly 500 ratings, a full 91% said that their experience with Axa wasn't just average or poor but full-on bad: a one-star rating. Here's a sampling of their complaints: "over 2,000 minutes on hold over the last few weeks" , "three months ago I made a claim... with no communication since" , "awful customer service" , and "no money paid into my account even after waiting seven months to get a settlement letter" . Money only seems to go one way when you buy an Axa travel insurance policy - and that direction isn't in your favor.

Don't buy this travel insurance

Are you surprised that this is our lowest-ranked travel insurance company? Not only are you limited to their own brand of coverage, but those plans give you much less for your money than other insurers. Add the abundance of 1-star ratings for Axa and it's absolutely no wonder that this is our least favorite choice among the travel insurance options in our review. Avoid Axa Travel Insurance and go with a different service.

Continued from above...

And, even if you do have that kind of protection, travel insurance policies can amplify your benefits. For example, if you choose a plan that offers $500,000 in primary medical coverage, you might not need to touch your regular health insurance: your bills will be reimbursed up to that amount, no matter what your everyday health plan includes. Car rental insurance can go above and beyond what's paid for by your credit card company or even your own vehicle's coverage - and that can be critical if you're driving in another country and have an accident.

What type of travel insurance do you need? Naturally, that depends on your trip, your travel party, and your budget. A single-trip policy will be more affordable than multi-trip coverage - but if you're traveling internationally more than once in a year, the annual policy becomes much more economical. Do you need to be able to cancel for any reason? Is it important to you to have a waiver of the pre-existing conditions exclusion? Are there any children under 18 in your party that might be included at no extra charge, depending on the insurer you select? These are all factors that will influence your decision when picking a travel insurance plan.

Confused yet? You do have a lot of options. Here are some criteria to help you sort through them and ultimately wind up with the travel insurance coverage you need:

• Quote process. How easy is it to get a quote that matches your insurance needs? Does the site explain the questions it asks, and does it display all of the possible plans in a way you can understand? Can you buy your policy right then and there, or do you have to click through to another site?
• Value. What's included for your premium? From one site to another, you will probably see the same price on any given plan because the states regulate travel insurance prices. However, it's worth your time to compare premium prices and benefits among different insurers, so that you get the most for your money.
• Reputation. It's easy for an insurance company to get high marks from customers if they never had to make a claim on the policy. What do clients who've filed claims say about the way they were treated? Were they reimbursed quickly? Did they get updates about the status of the claim? It's also good to check the Better Business Bureau's rating of any travel insurance service you're going to use.

To help you get the protection you need on your next adventure, TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked today's most popular sources of travel insurance. We're confident that this information will make it easy to protect yourself and what you've spent on your trip - and to have backup if something goes off track on your journey. Bon voyage!

Travel Insurance Plan FAQ

What is travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover, what does travel insurance not cover, can i get travel insurance if i have a pre-existing medical condition, is travel insurance expensive, my chocolate is going someplace warm. will it melt, where can i buy travel insurance, is it safe to get travel insurance online, when should you buy travel insurance.

If you're making plans for your vacation or your family's vacation, you need to determine whether you want to purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance may be another expense, but it can be well worth it so that you're covered in case of an emergency or problem.

Not many years ago, few people purchased travel insurance. However, that's changing fast. In fact, according to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, in the last 10 years the percentage of American travelers purchasing travel insurance increased from 10 to 30 percent. Travelers purchase insurance for a few reasons including protection against unexpected events, loss of the financial investment in the trip, and peace of mind.

Like many things, travel insurance can cover a wide variety of problems and will reimburse your costs for many situations. But you should know what type of insurance you need for your specific situation.

Here are a couple of tips on when you should buy travel insurance.

• You should consider buying travel insurance anytime the cost of the trip is more than the cost of the insurance. For example, if you're purchasing a $75 nonrefundable airline ticket, you probably don't want to invest in travel insurance that protects you from trip cancellation or interruption. However, if you've purchased a cruise vacation or all-inclusive resort stay for $3,000 - $10,000, you may want to protect that investment by purchasing travel insurance just in case you have to cancel due to illness, family emergencies, or other reasons. Travel insurance packages can also protect you in case the cruise line or resort experiences financial problems, such as going out of business between the time you pay for the trip and the time you get there. Be certain not to purchase this insurance from the cruise line or resort, as your coverage will be worthless if they go out of business.
• You should purchase travel insurance whenever you travel outside the U.S. Whether you're traveling by cruise ship or by airplane, your health insurance may or may not cover any medical expenses you incur outside of the United States. This includes travelling on "foreign-flagged" cruise ships. If you're travelling in U.S. waters on a foreign-flagged cruise ship, your medical insurance may not cover you if you become sick or injured. Travel insurance companies that offer medical coverage can also help facilitate any medical payments needed while in a foreign country, act as your advocate, and help cover costs associated with transporting you back home for medical reasons.

There are a variety of reasons to purchase travel insurance and a variety of options to cover you and your vacation. Be sure to look for a travel insurance policy from a dependable company so that your vacation investment is protected, and you can relax and enjoy your trip!

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For the Frequent Traveler: The 11 Best Annual Travel Insurance Policies

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GeoBlue Trekker Choice

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If you take multiple trips every year, insuring each one can be a hassle. There are forms to fill out, comparison shopping over and over again, and then remembering the policy documents for each specific trip. And then there’s the risk you might forget to take out travel insurance for one of your trips.

Plus, those costs add up. There must be a better way.

Enter annual travel insurance. Also known as multi-trip travel insurance, taking out an annual policy covers you for a whole year of travel. Not only is it simpler, it may be cheaper than taking out multiple single-trip policies. But is it right for you?

Annual travel insurance policies aren’t exactly the same as the trip insurance you’d buy for a weeklong holiday with your family. Here are the best annual travel insurance policies, what they do and don’t cover, and how to decide whether taking out a yearly policy might be right for you.

The 11 Best Annual Travel Insurance Policies

GeoBlue offers 2 Trekker plans for annual coverage, which are unique in several ways. These plans cover preexisting conditions, COVID-19, and all travel outside the U.S.

However, they don’t cover any trips inside the U.S. or provide any coverage for canceled, delayed, or interrupted trips. Instead, these are travel medical insurance plans . With the GeoBlue Trekker Choice plan , you’ll get higher maximum payouts in all categories and pay a lower deductible ($100). However, note that this is still secondary coverage .

You’ll get unlimited access to telemedicine and coverage for trips up to 70 days in length . Additionally, coverage is available up to age 95, which isn’t offered on most other policies.

The GeoBlue Trekker Essential plan offers the same pros and cons as the Choice plan. The main differences are the lower maximum payout values and the higher deductible ($200 instead of $100). You also won’t get the Choice plan’s lost baggage and personal effects coverage, which can provide up to $500 per trip. Again, this secondary medical insurance policy is only valid on trips outside the U.S.

Trawick International offers 2 annual plans, and the Safe Travels Annual Basic plan is more economical. You’ll have coverage for everything you expect in a trip insurance policy , such as 100% coverage for trip cancellation or interruption (up to a $2,500 annual maximum) and coverage for delays, lost luggage, delayed luggage, and even medical expenses. To make up for the lower cost of the plan, coverage limits are lower than what you’ll find elsewhere . However, if you want peace of mind while traveling, you can get it for a year and cover trips up to 30 days in length.

While Trawick International’s Safe Travels Annual Deluxe plan offers higher maximum coverage limits than the Basic plan, its maximum payouts for medical and evacuation benefits are lower than what you’ll find with competitors . Where this plan shines is in the coverage for change fees, lost deposits on tours, and coverage for lost items if an airline misplaces your luggage.

You’ll be covered for up to $300 per trip for prepaid excursions, up to 100% of your trip cost (with an annual maximum of $5,000) for trip cancellations or interruptions, and up to $150 per item and $750 per trip for personal effects. After signing up for a plan, you’ll also get a 10-day free look period.

If you want an annual plan with a low price tag , this could be what you’re looking for. The Allianz Travel AllTrips Basic plan covers you for unlimited trips up to 45 days each over the course of a year. Coverage includes emergency medical, emergency medical evacuation, baggage loss and delays, travel delays, rental car theft and damage, and travel accident coverage.

However, there’s a fair list of exclusions from this plan . That includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, missed connections, and change fees. As the name implies, you’ll get basic coverage at a basic price.

The Allianz Travel AllTrips Prime option covers 365 days of trips, though the maximum trip length is just 45 days. While you’ll get coverage for all the standard travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, delays, and baggage mishaps, there are limits you should know about with this plan.

The travel accident coverage, which applies to death or the loss of a limb, maxes out at $25,000 per trip, baggage delay maxes out at $200, and baggage loss or damage maxes out at $1,000. The maximum coverage for emergency medical is $20,000, and costs can exceed that quickly in a true emergency.

However, this is a decent option if you want a fair amount of coverage across numerous categories without a high price tag.

For those worried about expensive business equipment or losing points and miles, this plan has you covered. On top of higher maximum payouts in categories such as trip cancellation, emergency medical transportation, or travel delays, you’ll also get rental car damage and theft coverage, change fee coverage, and reimbursement for renting business equipment if yours is lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed during a trip.

Moreover, you can be reimbursed up to $500 to cover fees for reinstating your points and miles if a covered trip is canceled or interrupted. The Allianz Travel AllTrips Executive plan also provides coverage for preexisting medical conditions if you meet certain criteria and buy at least 14 days before the first trip.

Allianz also has a customizable AllTrips Premier plan , allowing you to choose between several payout tiers for trip cancellation and interruption. You’ll pay more when choosing higher maximums, but this allows you to choose exactly what you want in coverage and not pay for more than you need. Another positive is coverage for preexisting medical conditions if you meet certain criteria and buy your policy at least 14 days before your first trip.

You’ll also get rental car damage and theft coverage , $500,000 of emergency medical transportation coverage, $50,000 of emergency medical, and coverage for travel delay expenses after a delay of 6 hours or more. The baggage delay coverage is up to $2,000, but it requires a delay of 12 or more hours. The maximum trip length allowed is 90 days.

The AIG Travel Guard Annual Travel Insurance plan isn’t available to Washington state residents. Still, it provides coverage for trip interruption, trip delay, lost baggage, delayed baggage, and missed connections, as well as both medical and security evacuation, accidental death and dismemberment, and travel medical expenses. However, the coverage limit for dental is just $500, and the maximum coverage for travel medical expenses is just $50,000. Those are lower limits than other plans. Additionally, trip cancellation isn’t included.

However, Travel Guard has some strengths. Trip delay coverage applies for up to 10 days and requires a delay of just 5 hours, and the missed connection benefit applies after just 3 hours. You get a “free look” period of up to 15 days to cancel for a refund, so long as you haven’t started your trip or filed a claim. Maximum coverage for any particular trip is 90 days.

USI Affinity’s Voyager plan has a Silver and Gold option , and pricing is easy to determine from the chart. Simply find your age bracket and the associated cost. The key differences between the plans are in the higher maximum payouts for nearly every coverage type with the Gold plan, other than emergency dental and accidental death and dismemberment. However, the Gold plan also includes coverage types the Silver plan doesn’t: political and natural disaster evacuation, airline ticket change fees, and trip interruption. However, trip cancellation isn’t included with either plan .

The maximum trip length is 90 days, and coverage for Silver and Gold plans lasts for 364 days. An unlimited number of international and domestic trips are covered, and you’re covered for trips as little as 100 miles from home. That’s a lower requirement than most other plans (which tend to require 150 miles).

This plan is ideal for those who don’t live in the U.S., as other plans on this list are only available to U.S. residents and citizens. While the plan technically lasts for 364 days, Seven Corners’ Travel Medical Annual Multi-Trip plan is customizable. It lets you choose a maximum trip length of 30, 45, or 60 days and include or exclude coverage for the U.S. Note U.S. citizens and residents cannot add coverage for inside the U.S.

Seven Corners also provides coverage for travelers aged 14 to 75 years, though maximum payouts decrease in some categories for those aged 65 and older. If you receive medical care in the U.S., Seven Corners will pay 90% of the first $5,000 of covered expenses and 100% of the cost afterward. You’re covered 100% outside the U.S. Note that coverage doesn’t apply to your home country (which includes the U.S. if you’re a citizen, even if you live in another country) and isn’t available in Antarctica, Cuba, Iran, Israel, North Korea, Russia, Syria, or Ukraine.

We considered another plan. Here’s why this annual travel insurance policy didn’t make our “best of” list.

IMG Patriot Multi-Trip International : For trips inside the U.S., you may be on the hook for 20% of your medical expenses if you visit a provider outside IMG’s PPO network. Additionally, the maximum trip length is 30 days, and coverage limits are quite low in multiple categories. These include $50,000 for emergency medical evacuation and $10,000 for political evacuation, a maximum of $50 per item and $250 overall for lost luggage, a $100 maximum for dental treatment, and $25,000 for accidental death and dismemberment 24/7 coverage.

Annual travel policy plans vary considerably. Most provide secondary medical insurance, so you may need to submit to your other coverage (home healthcare plan, credit card insurance provider, etc.) first and then submit to your travel insurance provider for any remaining expenses or deductibles. If you won’t have other coverage, you may want to look for a plan that provides primary health coverage instead. Also, understand that most plans provide reimbursement, so you would pay out of pocket for overseas hospital visits and then submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement after the fact.

What Is Annual Travel Insurance?

Annual travel insurance covers you for many trips over the course of a year (or sometimes 364 days). Rather than needing to buy a travel insurance policy for each trip separately — which can add up — you can buy a single policy that covers all your trips for the next year. It’s important to understand the terms of these policies, though. Some may require buying coverage in advance, such as 14 days before your first trip, while that requirement normally doesn’t exist on single-trip travel insurance.

It’s also important to note which types of trips and destinations are covered by your policy — and which aren’t. Look for how far from home you must travel to be covered and whether domestic trips are included. Moreover, consider what benefits you’re looking for. These can vary from medical-only to all the bells and whistles, such as baggage delay and medical evacuation. Once you know the type of coverage you want, you can find a policy or policies that align with your needs, helping you narrow down your options to conduct a more effective comparison.

Annual travel insurance works as an umbrella policy, covering all your trips during the policy period. You don’t need to inform the policy provider about each trip’s start and stop dates or destinations. You simply buy a policy, and then you’re protected for every trip that meets the conditions while your policy is in effect. Some regions may be excluded from coverage, and you may be subject to a maximum trip length.

Trip length is an important element to pay attention to. Annual travel insurance doesn’t cover you for a year-long trip. It covers you for a year for many small trips within that time, typically up to 30 or 45 days per trip. If you’re looking for a plan to cover you during a year-long trip to another country, you should look for specialized plans for study abroad, mission work, or other situations that apply to you. Traveling full-time? You may need a policy geared toward digital nomads and backpackers.

You should buy your annual travel insurance policy as soon as you know you’ll have multiple trips in the next year and determine that the cost of insuring each alone would be higher than that of a single multi-trip plan. What’s the break-even point on that cost? It depends on the coverage you want.

Considering that single-trip plans can sometimes be found for $10, yet an annual trip is likely to cost $150 or more per adult, you’d need 15 trips to justify the annual policy. However, that’s not really an apples-to-apples comparison, as a $10 basic travel insurance policy won’t provide as much coverage as you’re likely to find on even the most basic of annual policies.

It’s also not just about the number of trips you take but the types of trips, the complexity of the trips, and money at risk in nonrefundable costs. The more of these you foresee in your next year of travels, the more likely an annual plan would be good for you.

We already highlighted that annual policies don’t cover traveling nonstop for a year due to their restrictions on the maximum trip length. Annual travel insurance policies also restrict how far you must travel for coverage to kick in. Driving to the next town over may be a trip in your kids’ eyes, but it’s probably not far enough for your travel insurance to kick in.

While coverage varies by policy, you’ll typically have coverage for sickness, accidental death and dismemberment, lost or delayed luggage, trip cancellation, and possibly injuries during skiing or snowboarding. However, it’s important to read the terms of each policy because coverage maximums and inclusions vary widely. Some policies only provide medical coverage, while others offer robust coverage across the board.

Each policy specifies a maximum trip length. How trips longer than that are treated can vary. Most policies won’t cover any expenses related to a trip longer than the maximum trip length. Suppose you take a trip of 41 days on a policy with a maximum of 40 days. In that case, claims for delayed luggage or medical expenses may be rejected when the claim evaluator asks for your trip confirmation details.

However, GeoBlue covers the first 70 days of any particular trip. If something goes wrong during that time, you’re covered. You’re on your own for anything that happens on days 71 or beyond. Still, you’re covered on those first 70 days, despite taking a longer trip.

If you foresee long trips in the future, make sure you understand these rules.

For some travelers, yes, annual travel insurance is worth it. For others, it’s not.

Annual travel insurance is worth it when it costs less than what you’d pay to insure each trip individually. It’s also worth it if you think you might forget to purchase some of those individual policies throughout the year and would prefer to be done with them for another 365 days.

However, annual travel insurance isn’t worth it if you only take a few trips a year, they’re mostly domestic, and you don’t have major nonrefundable expenses. If you’re traveling within the U.S. with your standard health insurance policy in effect and you have credit cards that provide trip insurance for delays or cancellations, that coverage may be sufficient.

Costs will vary by your home state, age, and number of people included in the policy. Here are the “starting at” costs for our best annual travel insurance policies, sorted from lowest to highest:

Yes and no. Using a credit card to pay for your trip can provide some built-in protections. However, you should be mindful of annual maximums on any policy. You may run into limitations such as a maximum of 2 claims per 12-month period or similar exclusions. If you take many trips, that could be an issue.

To better understand what is and isn’t covered, check out our complete guide to credit card insurance .

To choose the right policy, look beyond the cost alone. Rather than immediately choosing the cheapest policy, find the policy or policies that provide the coverage types you want with payout maximums that cover your travel plans for the next year — both confirmed bookings and likely plans.

Consider your coverage needs. Will you be carrying expensive items such as scuba equipment for a trip to the Galapagos or top-notch camera lenses for a bird-watching tour in Papua New Guinea? How many extreme sports will you participate in?

Conversely, how many “never heard of this airline before” flights will you take to get off the beaten path? These are flights where you may be worried about cancelations that lead to extra costs or a misplaced suitcase.

Consider the types of trips you’ll take and the up-front money at risk if something goes wrong or you get delayed, then look at which plans align with your travels. From there, choose the best plan that aligns best with your needs, which may or may not be the cheapest one.

As an annual travel policy holder myself, I promise you that having the right plan is important when you wind up in a remote hospital in Tanzania with malaria.

Annual travel insurance isn’t right for everyone. However, it makes sense for those who travel often and could save money by taking out a single policy instead of many separate policies. It also makes sense if you’d prefer to avoid filling out paperwork numerous times throughout the year for each trip.

Annual travel insurance policies aren’t great for those who tend to travel closer to home, don’t have major nonrefundable travel expenses, or need to customize coverage for each trip because their travels tend to vary. For example, you might need different coverage for a backcountry ski trip with friends versus a 2-hour drive with your family.

Look at what annual policies do and don’t cover and see if these align with your travel goals and needs. Then, consider the prices for the plans that align well with your situation. After taking an informed look, you should have a good idea of whether an annual policy is right for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is yearly travel insurance worth it.

For some, yes. For others, no. Annual travel insurance is worth it when the cost is less than what you’d pay to insure each trip separately or you would prefer to just sign up once then be done for a year. However, annual travel insurance isn’t worth it if you only take a few, mostly domestic, trips a year where your healthcare coverage works, and you don’t have major nonrefundable expenses.

How much does annual trip insurance cost?

Costs vary greatly depending on the type of coverage you want. Annual travel insurance plan costs range from $140 to $500 for a single person. If you take a lot of trips, the cost can be worth it over the course of a year, but each person’s situation is different.

When should I take out annual travel insurance?

You should buy your annual travel insurance policy as soon as you know you’ll have multiple trips in the next year and that the cost of insuring each alone would be higher than the cost of a single multi-trip plan. What’s the break-even point on that cost? It depends on the coverage you want. Look at the different types of coverage and your expected costs for insuring each trip separately, then see if it makes sense for you.

Does annual travel insurance automatically renew?

It varies by policy provider, but some companies have an auto-renew feature to ensure you don’t have gaps in coverage.

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About Ryan Smith

Ryan completed his goal of visiting every country in the world in December of 2023 and now plans to let his wife choose their destinations. Over the years, he’s written about award travel for publications including AwardWallet, The Points Guy, USA Today Blueprint, CNBC Select, Tripadvisor, and Forbes Advisor.

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Best Travel Insurance for Visiting the U.S.

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Table of Contents

Travel insurance basics

Best visitors insurance policies, for the lowest price: trawick international, for customizing options: worldtrips, for pre-existing conditions: worldtrips, for highest medical coverage limit: img, other options to consider, the bottom line.

Since health care can be expensive in the U.S., it’s important that visitors have insurance coverage, aka visitors insurance or travel medical insurance, in case something happens that requires medical attention mid-trip.

Whether you have coverage for travel in the U.S. depends on your health care plan in your home country. But if you don't, you'll need to buy a policy from a third-party insurance provider. Several companies sell this kind of visitor insurance, and each company and policy is a bit different. Let’s look at which is best for you.

First, a few basics about visitor insurance. Two kinds are available: travel medical insurance and trip insurance.

Travel medical insurance covers medical expenses that you may incur while traveling internationally, like a visit to the doctor, a trip to the hospital and medical evacuation and repatriation.

Trip insurance usually covers limited medical expenses like emergency care and can compensate you if your trip is delayed, you need to leave the trip early or you have to cancel the trip. It is designed to help you protect the investment you’re making as you prepare to travel.

Standard trip insurance might not cover a visit to the doctor unless it is an emergency.

It’s important to make sure any pre-existing conditions are covered if the visitor has any. Some policies exclude them.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

With so many kinds of visitors insurance policies, which is the best?

To make comparisons, we got quotes from several companies using Squaremouth , a website to search for different types of travel insurance in one place.

The parameters we set are for a 49-year-old citizen and resident of Spain traveling to the U.S. on May 1-31, 2024.

The quotes don't include cancellation coverage; these examples are for medical coverage only. To get a quote, the hypothetical deposit for the trip was paid on Feb. 15.

Since we’re looking for a policy that will cover medical care for visitors, there are several medical filters to select: emergency medical ($100,000 or more), medical evacuation ($100,000 or more) and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

The search came up with nine results ranging in price from $74.40 to $179.18.

The policy with the lowest cost was the Trawick International 's Safe Travels USA Cost Saver at $74.40.

Trawick policies use the FirstHealth PPO network.

The policy as quoted has a $250 deductible and includes $100,000 in emergency medical, $2 million in medical evacuation and $5,000 in interruption coverage. It has limited coverage for pre-existing conditions.

It is possible to change the deductible to as little as $0 or raise it to $5,000.

The same company has another policy, the Trawick International Safe Travels USA Comprehensive policy, that is better at covering pre-existing conditions and costs a little more — $89.59.

The general coverage is the same as the less expensive policy, and the Safe Travels USA Comprehensive option adds coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition. it is possible to change the deductible amount to $0 or go up to $5,000.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Some policies are sold as is, while others allow some flexibility depending on what is important to you.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy for $179.18 allows a lot of customization.

It was also the most expensive of the nine policies Squaremouth suggested.

It’s possible to customize the emergency medical coverage and pre-existing condition coverage and medical deductible. The policy also includes $15,000 in trip interruption coverage, the highest of any of the nine policies available.

If the traveler has a pre-existing condition, policies from WorldTrips Atlas America are your best bet. The WorldTrips Atlas America policy in our comparison costs $101.06.

The policy as quoted covers $100,000 in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition.

The deductible is also available for customization from $0 to $5,000.

The PPO network for Atlas America Insurance is United Healthcare.

The WorldTrips Atlas Premium America policy mentioned above is also good for pre-existing condition coverage.

While eight of the nine policies had $100,000 in secondary medical coverage, one had a limit of $2 million.

The IMG Patriot America Platinum policy has a premium of $172.36 along with a high medical evacuation limit of $2 million and interruption coverage of $10,000.

If $2 million in medical coverage is not enough, it’s possible to increase that amount to an $8 million policy limit.

It’s not possible to change the level of coverage for preexisting conditions from the high $1 million limit in emergency medical care and $25,000 in medical evacuation for an unexpected recurrence.

It is possible to change the deductible from $0 all the way up to $25,000.

Our comparison also included policies from two additional companies, Seven Corners and Global Underwriters .

Seven Corners had two policies come up in the results, the Seven Corners Travel Medical Basic for $98.27 and the Seven Corners Travel Medical Choice policy for $136.71. Both of the Seven Corners policies include coverage for hurricane and weather, and the less expensive policy covers acts of terrorism.

Having insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses for anyone visiting the U.S. can be a smart money move.

An illness or accident could cause financial problems for visitors because of potentially having to pay for full health care costs. When planning your travel, be sure to check your current health insurance to find out if it will cover you in the U.S.

For a monthlong stay in the U.S., the lowest-priced visitors insurance policy was around $75 (Trawick International Safe Travels USA Cost Saver) and the highest was about $180 (WorldTrips Atlas Premium America). That’s about $2.42 or $5.81 a day, depending on the policy.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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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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Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Companies (2024)

We round up the best travel insurance options that offer pandemic and medical protections.

Sarah Horvath is one of the home service industry’s most accomplished writers. Her specialties include writing about home warranties, insurance, home improvement and household finances. You can find her writing published through distributors like HouseMethod, Architectural Digest, Good Housekeeping and more. When not writing, she enjoys spending time in her home in Orlando with her fiance and parrot.

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.

As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, hotels, airlines and other hospitality-related businesses have seen a surge in travelers . However, the concern of a new variant is consistent —  experts have identified new strains of COVID-19 as recently as Dec. 2023, which could cause some travelers to consider purchasing travel insurance.

While some travel insurance policies now classify COVID-19 as a standard inclusion under medical expense and evacuation coverage, others include varying terms. According to our research, the best travel insurance companies offering COVID-19 coverage are Faye and Travelex. 

Compare Top Travel Insurance Companies with COVID-19 Coverage

Use the table below to compare COVID-19 coverage inclusions and details of top travel insurance companies:

10 Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Companies

• Faye: Our top pick
• Travelex: Our pick for families
• Seven Corners: Our pick for international travelers
• Tin Leg: Our pick for customizable coverage
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Our pick for concierge services
• TravelSafe: Our pick for equipment coverage
• Generali: Our pick for emergency assistance
• John Hancock Travel Insurance: Our pick for delay coverage
• Trawick: Our pick for well-rounded coverage
• HTH Travel Insurance: Our pick for group travel

We pulled price quotes for four vacations outlined in our methodology at the bottom of this page. The costs in this article reflect the premium for each of those four trips for each provider averaged together.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Pros and Cons

Why we picked it.

Faye is our top choice for COVID-19 travel insurance because it includes a robust set of protection to support policyholders both before and after diagnosis. The company classifies COVID-19 as a standard illness under its medical insurance policies, which means you can use any medical and evacuation coverages deemed necessary by local health professionals.

Since Faye classifies its travel medical insurance as primary coverage, it goes into effect before your domestic health coverage. This is especially beneficial for COVID-19, which could lead to hospitalization in some cases and include higher diagnosis, evacuation and treatment costs.

Coverage and Cost

Add-On Options

Faye currently offers the following add-ons for international excursions:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage
• Adventure and extreme sports protections
• Rental car coverage
• Vacation rental damage protection
• Pet care protection

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Faye’s average trip cost is $298.

Travelex is one of the most generous travel insurance providers we reviewed in terms of COVID-related situations and when you’re covered. Travelex travel insurance policies include specific language that ensures COVID-related hospitalizations and diagnoses are eligible for trip interruption coverage. Travelex’s policies also specify that if a loved one back home is hospitalized or determined in critical condition due to COVID-19, the policyholder is covered for an early return. These features, combined with lower overall premiums, makes Travelex a top choice for COVID-concious travelers.

Below are customizable add-ons to consider for your Travelex policy:

• Accidental death and dismemberment (air travel only)
• Additional medical coverage
• Adventure sports coverage
• Cancel for any reason coverage
• Car rental collision coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Travelex’s average trip cost is $242.

Another top option for COVID-related travel concerns, Seven Corners offers a wide range of medical policies, all of which include coverage for coronavirus as a standard illness. Seven Corners policies indicate that both trip interruption and cancellation coverage extends to COVID-19-related reasons, including quarantines. Missed connection coverage may even extend to your travel plans if COVID causes you to miss a portion of your trip, specifically while on a cruise . Overall, Seven Corners offers COVID-friendly policies and includes generous cancellation and interruption benefits to give you peace of mind while traveling.

Below are add-on options you may be able to include in your Seven Corners policy:

• Trip interruption for any reason coverage
• Rental car damage coverage
• Sports and gold equipment coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Seven Corners’s average trip cost is $206.25.

Tin Leg’s Silver and Gold policies include COVID-19 hospitalization and diagnosis as a standard inclusion under trip cancellation and interruption benefits. Like competitors, Tin Leg’s policies include stipulations that allow you to use travel delay benefits for ordered quarantine periods, offering between $500 and $2,000 depending on your chosen coverage level. However, you will need to receive a documented diagnosis from a licensed medical professional to use your trip benefits — a home rapid test is not sufficient proof.

Below are add-on options for Tin Leg travel insurance:

• Rental car damage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Tin Leg’s average trip cost is $166.50.

Both of TravelSafe’s insurance policies for international travel include comprehensive coverages and protections for COVID-19 , with identical medical coverage and evacuation limits no matter the condition. Trip delay benefits — available up to $2,000 on the TravelSafe Classic policy — include coverage for mandatory quarantines if required by a licensed medical professional. Policyholders can also apply mandatory quarantine benefits to missed connections coverage, which adds another layer of protection if you have multi-leg trips planned.

Below are add-on options you may include to your TravelSafe policy:

• Accidental death and dismemberment (air only)
• Extended personal property coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, TravelSafe’s average trip cost is $241.

Allianz Global Assistance

Allianz Global Assistance offers a policy endorsement to cover concerns related to COVID-19. Referred to as the “ Epidemic Coverage Endorsement ,” this benefit extends medical expense, emergency evacuation and trip delay coverage to include COVID-related situations. Like most other competitors, you will need a documented diagnosis of COVID-19 and a written order from a local government figure or medical authority requiring you to quarantine before you can use benefits.

When we requested a quote, all three available policies included the Epidemic Coverage Endorsement free-of-charge with standard pricing. However, it’s important to note that coverage for COVID-19 is not specifically written into the terms of Allianz’s policies in the same way as other illnesses, which is the standard verbiage in the industry. Be sure your policy includes this endorsement to maintain COVID-related coverage.

Below are add-ons to consider for your Allianz Travel Insurance policy:

• Rental car protection
• Required to work coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Allianz’s average trip cost is $265

In addition to including COVID as a standard coverage under medical, cancellation and interruption benefits, Generali Global Assistance includes the added peace of mind that comes with around-the-clock assistance. All policies include 24/7 emergency travel assistance with a multi-lingual support team, which can help policyholders communicate with medical staff. This is especially useful if you’re visiting an area where you do not speak the primary language.

However, as of Jan. 2020, newly issued policies include an exclusion that prevents you from using trip delay benefits to cover a quarantine period unless officially diagnosed with COVID-19. This exclusion does not apply if you are sick and quarantined with the virus, in which you can access your benefits to cover the cost of related expenses. This exclusion remains in effect even if a local government mandates your quarantine due to exposure — so we recommend researching the quarantine procedures for the country you’re visiting beforehand if you choose Generali.

Below are coverages you may be able to add to your Generali policy:

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Generali’s average trip cost is $255. 

Under most travel insurance verbiage, COVID-19 is now considered a known threat, and the announcement of a new variant is considered a risk you accept when booking. This means that travel insurance may not allow reimbursement for trip cancellation due to concerns about the emergence of a new variant.

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage extends your cancellation benefits to include fear of traveling due to COVID-19 or a new variant. In addition to classifying COVID-19 as a standard medical condition, John Hancock allows you to add CFAR coverage to a wider selection of policy choices, including its lower-cost Bronze package. Comparatively, most travel insurance providers limit your ability to add CFAR coverage to the most expensive plan.

Add-on options for John Hancock travel insurance:

• Rental car collision coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, John Hancock’s average trip cost is $225.

Trawick International offers one policy with coverage for COVID-19: Safe Travels International . This plan includes up to $1 million in medical coverage, up to $2,000 in trip delay benefits for potential quarantines and up to $2 million in medical evacuation coverage. This general range of coverage combined with CFAR add-on availability can make Trawick a customizable choice for travelers looking to add protections that cover COVID-19 without reviewing multiple plans.

Below are Trawick International add-on options:

• 24-hour accidental death and dismemberment
• Additional accident and sickness medical coverage
• Interruption for any reason coverage
• Upgradable trip delay coverage

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, Trawick’s average trip cost is $212.

While HTH’s policy details do not outline special benefits specifically for COVID-19 , its plans include standard medical interruption language allowing the use of benefits if you’re hospitalized. HTH’s policies include generous medical coverage and evacuation limits of $500,000 and $1 million respectively. The company also offers higher-than-average trip interruption benefits with a maximum benefit of 200% in reimbursements.

Below are additional options that may be available through HTH Travel Insurance:

Based on quotes we obtained using the seven trip profiles outlined in our methodology, HTH’s average trip cost is $221.

HTH also offers discounted pricing for group travel insurance policies.

What To Look for in Pandemic Travel Insurance

Once you understand how travel insurance can benefit you in the event of a COVID-19 diagnosis or emergency, you can get into the details of each coverage option. We’ve compiled a few essential features to consider when shopping for travel insurance with a focus on COVID-19 coverage.

Medical Expense Coverage

If you’re traveling to an area where you think you might be at risk of catching COVID-19, consider choosing a travel insurance policy with higher medical coverage limits. Travel medical insurance can help cover the cost of medical treatments you receive outside the U.S. if you become sick or injured. Most travel insurance policy providers now classify COVID-19 as a standard illness, meaning you can qualify for reimbursement if hospitalized with coronavirus abroad. 

Trip Delay Coverage

If you contract COVID abroad, depending on the country’s requirements, you may have to undergo a mandatory quarantine period before you can leave or enter another country. In these circumstances, your trip delay benefits could help cover the cost of expenses like meals, additional hotel stays and any toiletries you might need. To qualify to use trip delay benefits, most policies state a licensed medical professional must order a quarantine for 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until expiration. 

Trip Interruption Coverage

If you’re leaving dependents or older loved ones at home and concerned about the effect COVID-19 could have on their care, consider a policy with higher trip interruption coverages. Trip interruption insurance compensates you for things like the cost of an early return flight home and unused trip expenses if you must leave your trip ahead of schedule due to a covered reason. Some travel insurance providers like Seven Corners and Travelex include the illness of a family member and hospitalization with COVID-19 as a valid reason to use interruption benefits. Other providers only consider the health status of the insured traveler.  

CFAR Coverage

CFAR coverage is an optional add-on that allows you to receive a partial trip reimbursement if you cancel your trip for a reason not covered by insurance. For all providers on our list, this includes fear of a new variant of COVID-19 emerging at home or your destination. If this is a concern for you, consider a provider like John Hancock, which offers more options for policyholders to buy CFAR-level benefits. 

Does Travel Insurance Cover COVID-19 Directly?

Most travel insurance policies now classify COVID-19 as a standard inclusion under medical expense and evacuation coverage. This means coronavirus is usually treated the same way as any other illness or injury you might sustain abroad or before your trip. While this offers protection for your travel plans if you’re hospitalized due to COVID-19, fear of new variants and minor illnesses will usually not qualify you for a reimbursement . 

Let’s take a look at sample situations when you might need to use COVID-19 coverage as a part of your travel insurance. First, say you fall sick before traveling and are diagnosed with a serious case of COVID-19. Your physician determines you require hospitalization a day before you’re supposed to travel. If you purchased travel insurance, you could file a claim to reimburse nonrefundable trip costs, such as airfare and lodging, because you’re medically unable to travel. 

Now, let’s imagine you have a trip planned to Germany. A few days before your travel, information on a new Covid variant becomes available and officials advise the public to avoid travel if possible. While you may be hesitant to travel due to the new strain, you would not be entitled to reimbursement with travel insurance unless specifically outlined in your policy. However, if you opted for CFAR coverage during enrollment, you could cancel your trip and get a refund for nonrefundable expenses regardless. 

Does Travel Insurance Cover Quarantine?

Your travel insurance policy might cover the COVID-19 quarantines if ordered by a medical professional, which includes expenses related to additional lodging. If you’re diagnosed with a new variant of the virus before your trip and forced to quarantine at home, you will usually qualify for trip cancellation benefits under your policy’s illness cancellation clause. However, travel insurance will not compensate you for additional domestic quarantine-related expenses like food and rent. 

If you’re advised to quarantine abroad after being diagnosed with COVID-19, you could also qualify for coverage under your insurance’s travel delay benefits. While travel delay benefits are designed to help cover hotel rooms and alternate airfare if you’re forced to miss a connection, you can also use coverage for mandatory quarantine orders. To qualify, you will usually need to provide documentation of both your illness and a quarantine recommendation from a local medical professional. 

If you’re concerned about the cost and possibility of an international quarantine, it’s important to look at the travel delay benefits included with your insurance coverage. Policies with higher total travel delay benefits will cover more quarantine-related expenses, which can make these policies more valuable. Be sure to note both overall and daily limits on trip delay benefits, which can also influence policy value.

How Much Does COVID-19 Travel Insurance Cost?

In our comprehensive review of travel insurance policies, we found the average cost of a plan with COVID-19 coverage is about $220 per trip. However, the price of your premium will vary depending on the level of benefits included with your policy. Browse the table below to compare how some of our top travel insurance providers compare in terms of average price and included benefits. 

Factors That Impact Cost

Factors that affect the cost of your travel insurance include your age, where you’re traveling to, the cost of your trip and the length of your trip. Adding various custom riders, like protection for a rental car or cancellation for any reason coverage, will also increase the cost.

Is Pandemic Travel Insurance Worth It?

While almost all COVID-19 restrictions are lifted in the U.S., the virus is still a global health threat. Even if travel insurance isn’t required for a trip, purchasing insurance that includes COVID-19 protections can help you avoid a financial burden if you contract the virus before or during the trip.

You might not need the pandemic travel coverage if you’re taking a low-cost trip and not crossing international borders. Your health insurance may cover medical costs within the country, and the money you lose from canceling an affordable trip could be too low to justify shopping for and buying coverage. It’s different if you pay a lot of money up front for a long, expensive vacation.

Another option is looking at the travel protections that your credit card company provides. Some cards offer trip protection for emergencies that could include coverage if you call off a trip or end a trip early after contracting COVID-19. But travel costs usually have to be paid for with the card for them to qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance

What are the cheapest ways to get travel insurance for a pandemic.

The best way to find cheap travel insurance with pandemic coverage is by shopping around with different providers. Many offer free quotes online, and it takes minutes to check rates.

What are the advantages of purchasing pandemic travel insurance?

The advantage of pandemic travel insurance is that it reimburses prepaid travel costs if you cancel or cut short a trip because of getting COVID-19 before or during the trip. And if a family member contracts COVID-19 while you’re away, pandemic travel insurance may reimburse you for expenses related to returning home early to care for a loved one.

Can you cancel your flight if you have COVID?

Many travel insurance policies now include coverage for trip cancellations due to COVID-19. However, coverage is usually included under standard medical inclusions, which means you must be medically unable to travel at the time of your scheduled departure to claim a reimbursement. Review your specific travel insurance coverage to learn more about flight cancellation benefits.

What does travel insurance not cover?

Travel insurance usually does not cover cancellations due to fear of travel, government restrictions or pre-existing medical conditions. You generally cannot cancel your trip and claim any reimbursements unless it’s for a covered reason such as the illness or death of a family member or natural disasters. Carefully read your policy to understand the exclusions and limitations unique to your coverage.

Methodology: Our System for Rating the Best Travel Insurance Companies

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

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

More Travel Insurance Guides

• Best cruise insurance plans
• Best travel insurance companies
• Cheapest travel insurance
• Best group travel insurance companies
• Health insurance for visitors to USA
• Best senior travel insurance
• Best travel insurance for families
• Best student travel insurance plans
• Travel insurance for parents visiting USA
• Best travel medical insurance plans
• How much does travel insurance cost?

More Travel Insurance Resources

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Travel Insurance for Europe: 4 Best Options for 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Travelex Insurance Services »

Generali Global Assistance »

WorldTrips »

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 for Europe.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Travelex Insurance Services

You almost certainly will want travel insurance for Europe, mostly because the high cost for international trips is worth protecting against travel delays and trip cancellations. Since your U.S. medical coverage will not apply overseas, you also need international health insurance that covers surprise medical expenses and medical evacuation.

If you're searching for the best Europe travel insurance that money can buy, consider the following plans and all they have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most people need travel health insurance at a bare minimum when traveling to European destinations like France, Italy or Switzerland, as well as additional countries inside and outside of the Schengen area. After all, U.S. health insurance plans do not provide coverage for medical emergencies overseas, and the same is true for government health plans like Medicare. Check out our article on whether your health insurance covers international travel .

Other benefits built into Europe travel insurance plans can also protect the money that's been spent on airfare, hotel stays, Europe cruises and tours. For example, travelers can benefit from having coverage for trip cancellation, trip delays, lost or delayed baggage, and more.

Every travel insurance policy is unique, so you'll want to read over individual travel insurance plans to see what they protect against. That said, the bulk of travel insurance plans for trips to Europe provide the following coverages:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Travel delays
• Lost luggage reimbursement
• Baggage delay coverage
• Medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Rental car damage

Some travel insurance plans also offer additional or optional coverage for sports equipment or sports equipment delays, missed connections, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), adventure sports and more.

Some visitors to countries in the Schengen area are required to have a visa for short stays that can last for up to 90 days within a timeline of up to 180 days. However, this is not the case for American citizens, who can stay in Europe for up to 90 days at a time without meeting specific visa requirements.

The U.S. Department of State also notes that American citizens who want to stay in Europe for more than 90 days should reach out to the country they plan on visiting to inquire about their visa process.

If you live in a country that requires a Schengen visa, you are required to purchase Schengen visa insurance that pays for overseas medical expenses. This coverage must provide at least 30,000 euros in protection against medical expenses that result from hospitalization, emergency treatment and repatriation of remains in the case of accident or death.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Cost
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• WorldTrips: Best for Groups

Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) and preexisting medical conditions coverage available

Kids 17 and younger covered for free

Lower coverage amount for medical expenses than some providers

• $100,000 per traveler in coverage for trip cancellation
• $150,000 per traveler in coverage for trip interruptions
• $500 in coverage for eligible trip changes
• $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• $500,000 for emergency medical transportation
• $1,000 toward baggage loss or damage
• $300 in coverage for baggage delays of 12 hours or more
• $800 in protection for travel delays (daily limit of $200 applies)
• $100 per insured person per day in SmartBenefits coverage for eligible delays
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Optional CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverages available

Kids 17 and younger are covered for free

Many coverages cost extra

• 100% of trip cost for trip cancellation (up to $50,000)
• 150% of trip cost for trip interruption (up to $75,000)
• $2,000 in coverage for trip delays of five hours or longer
• $750 in coverage for missed connections
• $50,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses ($500 dental sublimit included)
• $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
• $1,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• $200 for baggage delays of 12 hours or longer
• $200 for sporting equipment delays of 24 hours or longer
• $25,000 for accidental death and dismemberment coverage
• 24/7 travel assistance
• 100% of the insured trip cost for financial default of a travel provider (maximum of $50,000)
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage for preexisting medical conditions (maximum of $50,000)
• Cancel for work reasons coverage
• CFAR insurance
• Car rental coverage worth up to $35,000
• $50,000 in additional emergency medical coverage
• $500,000 in additional coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
• Adventure sports exclusions waiver
• $200,000 in coverage for flight accidental death and dismemberment

CFAR and preexisting medical conditions coverages available

High coverage limits for medical expenses and evacuation

CFAR coverage only reimburses at 60%

• $1,000,000 coverage limit for emergency medical evacuation and transportation
• $250,000 coverage limit for medical expenses ($500 limit for dental emergencies)
• 100% of trip cost for trip cancellation
• 175% of trip cost for trip interruption
• $1,000 per person for travel delays ($300 per person daily limit applies)
• $2,000 per person in coverage for baggage and $500 for baggage delays
• $2,000 per person in coverage for sporting equipment and $500 for sporting equipment delays
• $1,000 per person in coverage for missed connections
• Air flight accident AD&D coverage worth $100,000 per person and $200,000 per plan
• Travel accident AD&D coverage worth $50,000 per person and $100,000 per plan
• $25,000 in coverage for rental cars
• 24-hour travel support

Discounts for groups of five or more

Potential for high coverage limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellation

Available coverage limits vary by age

• $5,000 for local burial or cremation
• Up to $25,000 in AD&D coverage
• $100,000 in coverage for emergency reunions
• $10,000 in coverage for trip interruption
• $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• $100 in coverage for lost or stolen passports or visas
• $100 in coverage per day for travel delays of at least 12 hours (two days of coverage maximum)
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel writer who has created content about travel insurance, family travel, cruises, all-inclusive resorts and more for over a decade. She has visited more than 50 countries around the world and has an annual travel insurance plan of her own. Johnson also has experience navigating the claims process for travel insurance plans and has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson works with her husband, Greg, who is licensed to sell travel insurance and owns the travel agency Travel Blue Book .

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If you're going overseas, travel insurance is just as essential as your passport. Use our free comparison tool to narrow down international single trip and annual multi-trip policies from 27 insurers, offering cover for COVID-19, existing medical conditions, car rental and more.

Travel insurance is a portable version of health, home, contents, life, public liability, and car rental excess insurance all packaged in one to take on holidays with you. But with all those insurances piled into one product, navigating your way through the terms and conditions to find the loopholes can be very challenging.

Use our travel insurance comparison to narrow down your options and make sure you're getting the best cover for your needs when on holiday.

List of brands we tested in this review.

• Battleface 2
• Cover-More 5
• FastCover 4
• Flight Centre 4
• Go Insurance 4
• InsureandGo 3
• Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) 3
• Tick Travel Insurance 4
• Travel Insurance Direct 3
• Virgin Australia 5
• WAS Insurance 2
• World Nomads 2
• World2Cover 4

The average cost of the policy compared to other policies of the same type (single trip or annual multi-trip). One $ sign is the cheapest through to five $$$$$ the most expensive. NA means the policy wasn't included in the price rating.

enter value/s in increments of 1 between 0 and 0

Policy type

• One trip 65
• Policy age limit

In years (up to and including the number stated). For policies listed as '100+', there is no age limit.

Does the policy cover international cruises?

• Optional 71

Medical expenses for COVID-19

Whether the policy covers you for medical and emergency evacuation and repatriation expenses for claims arising directly or indirectly from COVID-19. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

Cancellation expenses for mental health

Whether the policy covers you for cancellation expenses for claims arising directly from recognised mental health disorders experienced for the first time such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or PTSD. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

• Cancellation for insolvency of a travel services provider

Whether the policy covers you for losses arising out of insolvency of a travel services provider (e.g. airline, accomodation provider, bus line, shipping line, railway company, motor vehicle rental agency). Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

Cancellation expenses for a natural disaster

Whether the policy covers you for cancellation expenses for claims arising directly or indirectly from a natural disaster. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

Cancellation expenses for civil unrest

Whether the policy covers you for cancellation expenses for claims arising directly or indirectly from civil unrest such as political protests, riots and strikes. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

• Baggage cover

Are stolen or damaged personal belongings covered

• Limit for baggage expenses

The overall limit for stolen or damaged personal belongings.

• Limit for a smartphone

Limit for a smartphone. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

• Limit for a laptop or tablet

Limit for a laptop or tablet. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

• Limit for rental car excess

Limit for collision damage excess for a hire car. Cover is assessed on individual circumstances.

• Scuba diving

Does the policy cover scuba diving if you are appropriately certified or diving with a qualified instructor?

Skiing and snowboarding on-piste

Does the policy cover skiing and snowboarding on-piste?

• Optional 82

Skiing and snowboarding off-piste

Does the policy cover skiing and snowboarding off-piste withing the resort boundaries?

• Optional 72

Tobogganing

Does the policy cover tobogganing on snow?

• Optional 50

Does the policy cover riding a moped with an engine capacity 50cc or below, with a helmet and driving license valid in the country the policy holder is in, but without an Australian motorcycle license

• Optional 32

Moped 125cc

Does the policy cover riding a moped with an engine capacity 125cc or below, with a helmet and driving license valid in the country the policy holder is in, but without an Australian motorcycle license

• Optional 28

Does the policy cover riding a motorcycle with an engine capacity above 125cc with an Australian motorcycle license and a helmet?

• Optional 34

Included in this comparison

• Price rating
• Dependant age limit
• Cancellation
• Pregnancy stage covered
• Childbirth costs
• Pre-existing conditions covered without application
• Pre-existing conditions covered on application
• Time period for existing conditions
• Medical expenses
• Expenses for a person to accompany a sick policyholder
• Daily hospital cash allowance
• Hours of hospitalisation before receiving allowance
• Dental expenses for accident or injury
• Dental expenses for acute pain
• Overseas funeral costs
• Additional travel expenses for injury or sickness
• Additional expenses for interrupted travel
• Travel insurance extension for a delayed trip
• Additional expenses for a lost passport
• Additional expenses for a sick relative
• Additional expenses for resumption of journey interrupted for a relative
• Cancellation covered
• Cancellation expenses
• Cancellation for frequent flyer points
• Cancellation expenses for travel agent fees
• Cancellation for insolvency of a travel agent
• Cancellation expenses for redundancy
• Cancellation expenses for defence and emergency workers
• Cancellation expenses for cancellation of work leave
• Cover for transport incidents
• Cover for strikes
• Cover for mental health
• Cover for COVID-19
• Cover for pandemics
• Cover for natural disasters
• Cover for civil unrest
• Cover for terrorism
• Cover for war
• Additional expenses for a special event
• Additional expenses for pre-paid travel arrangements
• Limit for travel delay expenses
• Hours before travel delay covered
• Limit per 24 hours for travel delay
• Limit for a single unspecified item
• Limit for a video or photo camera
• Limit for prescribed medications
• Overall limit for specified items
• Cover for baggage in a car during the day
• Cover for baggage in a car overnight
• Cover for valuables in a car
• Cover for lost or stolen cash
• Limit for baggage lost temporarily
• Hours before cover applies for baggage lost temporarily
• Rental car excess
• Snow sports
• Mopeds and motorcycles
• Bungee jumping
• Horse riding
• High altitude hiking
• White water rafting
• Paragliding
• Hot air ballooning
• Hang gliding

Displaying all 91 products

• Brand (A-Z)

Limit for additional meal and accommodation expenses if scheduled transport is delayed.

Your filters

This overall score is based on our expert assessment of what the policy covers, price and how easy it is to understand and buy. A higher score is better.

1Cover Comprehensive

1Cover Frequent Traveller

1Cover Medical Only

AANT Annual Multi-Trip

AANT Basics

AANT Essentials

AANT Premium

AHM Comprehensive

AHM Comprehensive Multi-Trip

AHM Medical Only

Battleface Covid Essentials

Battleface Discovery

Cover-More Basic

Cover-More Comprehensive

Cover-More Comprehensive Multi-Trip

Cover-More Comprehensive Plus

Cover-More Comprehensive Plus Multi-Trip

FastCover Basics

FastCover Comprehensive

FastCover Frequent Traveller Saver

FastCover Standard Saver

Flight Centre Multi-Trip YourCover Essentials

Flight Centre Multi-Trip YourCover Plus

Flight Centre YourCover Essentials

Flight Centre YourCover Plus

Go Insurance Go Basic

Go Insurance Go Basic Annual Multi-Trip

Go Insurance Go Plus

Go Insurance Go Plus Annual Multi-Trip

InsureandGo Bare Essentials

InsureandGo Gold

InsureandGo Silver

Jetstar Comprehensive

Medibank Comprehensive

Medibank Medical Only

Medibank Multi-Trip Comprehensive

NIB Annual Multi-Trip

NIB Comprehensive

NIB Essentials

NRMA Comprehensive

NRMA Comprehensive Multi-Trip

NRMA Essentials

Qantas Annual Multi-Trip

Qantas International Comprehensive

RAA Essentials

RAA Multi-Trip

RAA Premium

RAC Annual Multi-Trip

RAC Comprehensive

RAC Essentials

RAC Medical Only

RACQ Annual Multi-Trip

RACQ Premium

RACQ Standard

RACT Annual Multi-Trip

RACT Comprehensive

RACT Essentials

RACV Annual Multi-Trip

RACV Basics

RACV Comprehensive

RACV Essentials

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) Annual Multi-Trip

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) Comprehensive

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) Medical Only

Tick Travel Insurance Basic

Tick Travel Insurance Budget

Tick Travel Insurance Standard

Tick Travel Insurance Top

Travel Insurance Direct Annual Multi-Trip

Travel Insurance Direct Basics

Travel Insurance Direct The Works

Virgin Australia International Plan (bought with flight purchase)

Virgin Australia Travel Safe International

Virgin Australia Travel Safe International Multi-Trip

Virgin Australia Travel Safe Plus International

Virgin Australia Travel Safe Plus International Multi-Trip

WAS Insurance Covid Essentials

WAS Insurance Discovery

Webjet Travel Safe International

Webjet Travel Safe International Multi-Trip

Webjet Travel Safe Plus International

Webjet Travel Safe Plus International Multi-Trip

World Nomads Explorer

World Nomads Standard

World2Cover Annual Multi-Trip

World2Cover Basics

World2Cover Essentials

World2Cover Top

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Best travel insurance UK 2024 guide

We all deserve a break now and then. And the last thing you want to think of when booking your holiday is something going wrong. But it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. That’s why you should always consider travel insurance when going on a trip.

But how can you find the best travel insurance policy for your needs? Read our guide below to find out more.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance protects you financially if your trip away doesn’t go as planned and you incur unexpected expenses for delays, losses or medical treatment.

All travellers can benefit from travel insurance. But travel insurance is particularly important if you are going on an independent trip without a tour operator, because if something goes wrong, you will have no other help.

There are three main types of travel insurance:

• Single-trip cover: this is the most typical form of travel insurance, covering you for a one-off trip or holiday. There will be a time limit on the cover that can range anywhere between one month and 365 days
• Annual multi-trip cover: this allows you to make multiple trips, or have multiple holidays, in a 12-month period, all under the same travel insurance policy. There may be a cap on how long each individual trip can be
• Long stay, or backpacker, cover: this is normally used for around the world trips, gap years, and longer cruises, and can last for up to 18 months

To find the best UK travel insurance, compare policies before you go to ensure you get the right coverage for you and the specific trip you’re planning.

How to find the best travel insurance policy

When comparing policies to find the best travel insurance for your trip, you should consider: 

• Type of cover you need
• Excess (how much you’ll be expected to pay out yourself before the policy will cover you)
• Amount of medical coverage, and why pre-existing conditions aren’t included
• Limit on baggage claims
• Coverage for specific sports and activities
• Any potential rewards and discounts
• Add-ons, such as gadget insurance

Best travel insurance deals and discounts

Looking for the best travel insurance deals from the best travel insurance companies? In most cases, the easiest way to find the best travel insurance deals is to use a comparison website. Travel insurance comparison websites let you compare costs and coverage side by side to find the best UK travel insurance.

The four main comparison websites – Moneysupermarket, Comparethemarket, Confused.com and GoCompare – also often have certain deals and discounts when you buy travel insurance from them, offering some of the best travel insurance deals on the market.

Moneysupermarket : Find the same deal for less, and it will price match and give you a choice of a £20 gift card. Only on annual travel insurance.

Comparethemarket : Two for one cinema tickets with Meerkat Movies and savings at restaurants when you dine out or order pizza in with Meerkat Meals, as well as 25 per cent off coffee and pastries at Caffè Nero every day of the week through the Meerkat app.

(In November 2023, Confused.com and GoCompare had no deals or discounts for travel insurance).

Price is obviously a big consideration when you are looking for the best travel insurance – you’ve probably already spent a lot on your holiday. But you may be able to get much better coverage for just a few pounds extra, so it’s worth scrolling down the comparison site’s list of providers before buying.

Medical costs abroad will undoubtedly be the biggest expense you face if you fall ill abroad, so don’t scrimp on those.

Then think about your next biggest expense (probably cancellation/interruption of your trip) and make sure that you have high-value coverage for that.

If you find you can get much higher coverage (the maximum amount you can claim per type of claim, such as medical or baggage) for not very much more money, go for the slightly more expensive option.

Going direct

Comparison sites won’t always find you the cheapest deals, however. For example, Direct Line offers some of the best travel insurance with Covid cover and is not on comparison websites.

Some of the best travel insurance companies also offer discounts for buying directly from them, as follows:

Bundled coverage options

When looking for the best travel insurance for your holiday, it can make sense to buy a bundle of coverage under one policy.

Comparison websites will often offer add-on gadget cover, winter sports cover or cruise cover all under the one policy. If you need that extra cover, it is typically cheaper to buy your travel insurance this way rather than as separate policies.

What is covered by travel insurance?

The best travel insurance companies will offer you comprehensive coverage across all types of claims. It’s easy to compare the best travel insurance deals using a comparison website.

Medical coverage

This covers you for medical expenses you incur if you become ill or have an accident while away. The best UK travel insurance will have a high level of medical coverage.

For example, medical coverage will pay for any necessary treatment if you come down with severe food poisoning or you fall through a window and have to be taken to hospital in an ambulance.

• Avoid hefty bills or debt for medical assistance outside the UK
• Access better treatment – for example, at private vs public hospitals
• Often, as long as you declare existing conditions or pending treatment or tests, you are covered if you fall ill during your trip (check policy exclusions)
• Even the best travel insurance companies will likely charge you more if you have a pre-existing medical condition
• You might have to pay part or all your medical expenses first, then claim on the policy afterwards
• Even the best travel insurance companies do not cover events that happen after you have consumed alcohol excessively or taken recreational drugs or other substances

Trip cancellation/interruption

This insurance pays out the cost of your missed trip if you have to cancel or cut your holiday short due to unforeseen circumstances.

For example, cancellation insurance would normally pay out if you broke your leg just before you were due to travel and had to cancel your trip.

Interruption insurance would cover you if you had to come home early for certain reasons beyond your control – for example, if the area you were staying in was engulfed in wildfires.

• Money you would have lost on pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses is paid to you under the policy
• It can be especially valuable if the trip you are planning is very expensive, as this is money you would lose if you couldn’t go
• You’ll usually only be covered if your trip is cancelled or cut short for specific reasons listed in your policy
• You usually won’t be covered if you miss your flight because you are held by customs or cancel because of a work issue or a pre-existing medical condition that is not covered

Baggage cover

This insurance covers the cost of replacing your luggage if it is lost or stolen.

For example, if an airline loses your luggage in transit or your suitcase is stolen from your hostel while you’re away, you can make a claim for the cost of replacing its contents.

You may also be able to claim for costs related to baggage delay if the airline temporarily misplaced your baggage.

• You can claim for the actual cash value of your belongings or the cost of replacing them (whichever is less)
• High-value items, such as jewellery or sports equipment, can be very expensive to replace without travel insurance
• Standard policies usually place per item and total limits on claims.
• If you are taking very expensive items away, check your policy carefully to ensure that you’re covered (and potentially get a separate policy)
• Some items could be covered by your home insurance policy, so check your policy carefully to see what is any isn’t. It’s also important to note that, should a lost item be covered by both policies, you can only claim once; an attempt to claim twice would be considered fraud

Personal liability

This insurance covers you if you are held responsible for harming another person or damaging their property.

For example, it covers you in situations where you cause serious damage to your holiday accommodation or accidentally stumble into someone else, causing them to need medical treatment.

• The cost of defending yourself in a legal case or repairing/replacing damage could be extremely costly without travel insurance
• Your travel insurance company will take over dealing with a foreign legal system
• You’re covered for the cost of any compensation (up to certain limits)

Limits: 

• Not all travel insurance provides personal liability as standard
• Policies may exclude personal liability while you partake in adventure activities
• Claims related to you committing a crime or damage by wilful negligence won’t be covered
• You likely will not be covered if you admit liability or make an offer to pay before talking to your insurer

Finding the best travel insurance with Covid cover

Looking for the best travel insurance with Covid cover? Many travel insurance policies now include cancellation cover for reasons related to Covid. This often applies within two weeks of being due to travel, according to the Association of British Insurers, but individual policies can vary.

To make a claim, insurers often require proof in the form of a medically approved positive Covid test. A lateral flow test or self-diagnosis is usually not accepted.

What Covid-related cover to look for

The best travel insurance with Covid cover should include the following:

• Cover if you can’t start your trip because you tested positive for Covid before travelling
• Cover if you or family members cannot return home because you/they test positive for Covid during the holiday
• Cover for additional costs, such as alternative flights, accommodation and Covid tests
• Cover if you cannot reach your final destination during transit due to Covid-19

Travel insurance providers with comprehensive Covid cover

Looking for the best travel insurance providers with Covid cover? Most travel insurance policies now offer some kind of Covid cover, but Churchill, Direct Line, M&S and Aviva have some of the most comprehensive offerings, with cover for cancellations and expenses related to Covid.

• Covid covered as standard on travel insurance policies
• Cover for trip cancellations if you, a close relative or a travelling companion is diagnosed with Covid-19 or another pandemic disease
• Cover if you or a person you’re planning to stay with must quarantine (abroad or in the UK)
• Cover if you can’t use pre-booked and pre-paid accommodation affected by Covid-19
• Cover for quarantine or where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against travel within 28 days of departure
• Cover for emergency medical expenses abroad due to Covid-19

Direct Line

• Cover for travel to a destination where the FCDO is advising against all but essential travel 
• Cover for medical expenses if you catch Covid-19 while you’re away 
• Cover for additional accommodation and transport if you have to quarantine due to Covid
• Cover for cancellation costs if you or a close relative get Covid-19 before you go
• Cover for quarantine or if the FCDO changes its advice after you book your trip
• Cover if you have to cut your trip short if the FCDO changes its country advice unexpectedly

• Cover for emergency medical expenses if you catch Covid-19 during your trip
• Cover for unrecoverable costs up to £6,000 if you must cancel your trip or return early, including if you have to self-isolate or quarantine before you travel due to Covid-19
• Cover for if you need to cancel your trip due to a positive Covid-19 test or if the FCDO advise against travel to your destination in the 31 days leading up to your trip
• Providing you haven’t travelled against FCDO advice, you’ll also be covered if you catch Covid-19 while abroad

• Coverage of up to £5,000 per person if you must cancel your trip due to getting Covid (you’ll need to provide confirmation and evidence of a positive test result)
• Cover for Covid-related emergency medical treatment and expenses while away
• Cover if you unexpectedly need to quarantine, including extra travel and accommodation costs to get home (provided a return trip was booked) 
• Cover for costs for any accommodation and excursions unused due to getting Covid where the costs can’t be recovered elsewhere
• No cover you if you travel against FCDO advice*
• No cover if you can’t travel because you don’t meet the entry requirements of a country (such as having had Covid vaccinations)*

* It’s worth noting that these clauses are not unusual and the majority of providers will have something similar

Tips for selecting the best UK travel insurance packages

Need some help picking the best UK travel insurance packages to make sure that you get the best travel insurance deals? Here are some tips for picking the best policy features for you.

Coverage limits

When looking for the best travel insurance companies to go with, check coverage limits. These are the maximum amounts your travel insurer will pay if you need to claim. You’ll see when you compare travel insurance policies that coverage limits vary for each type of claim and between policies.

The government-backed MoneyHelper website recommends that the best UK travel insurance should have the following minimum coverage for each type of claim:

• Medical: £1m or more for travel to Europe and £2m or more for the US
• Cancellation/interruption: £2,000 or more
• Missed departure: £500 or more
• Delay: £200 or more
• Baggage cover: £1,500 or more
• Personal liability cover: £2 million or more

Deductibles/excess

Deductibles, also known as the excess, is the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket before your travel insurance will start paying for your claim.

You have to make a trade-off when it comes to choosing the excess and the best travel insurance policy for you.

The lower the excess on a travel insurance policy, the better for you if you have to claim because you will have less to pay from your own pocket (or, more often, deducted from your claim).

But lower excess travel insurance policies are more expensive because the insurer knows it has more to pay out if you claim. Higher excess policies are cheaper, but you’ll have more deducted from your claim.

An exclusion on a travel insurance policy is an event the policy will not cover you for.

Common exclusions on a standard travel insurance policy may not be obvious. According to the ABTA – The Travel Association, these include:

• Incidents that occur after drinking too much alcohol or taking drugs
• Theft of unattended possessions
• Sports, extreme sports and activities such as skiing, white water rafting and bungee jumping
• Medical treatment resulting from existing medical conditions you have not declared or conditions preventable by vaccine or advisable medication, such as antimalarials
• Medical costs if you stay abroad after your doctor says you are fit to return to the UK
• Strikes and industrial action if it was known when you booked your trip
• Rescheduled flights where the airline has cancelled and then rescheduled your flight
• Travel to destinations where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel

To get the best travel insurance deals, one way around some of these exclusions is to buy add-ons for adventure activities. In addition, make sure to declare all pre-existing conditions and keep an eye out for any travel disruptions before you book.

Pre-existing conditions

Pre-existing conditions are illnesses or medical conditions you have and are aware of before you travel.

Travel insurance companies will ask you to disclose any pre-existing conditions. If you use a comparison website, it will be among the first questions you’re asked before it shows you quotes. It’s important to be honest.

Some travel insurance companies, but not all, will offer cover for pre-existing medical conditions, while others will offer cover but exclude any claims arising from that medical condition. This will depend on the person being covered and the medical condition.

Most price comparison websites include an option to show insurers who do offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, so that would be a good place to start.

The following are likely to be considered pre-existing conditions you should disclose, according to the government-backed MoneyHelper website:

• A condition where you are on a list for an operation
• A condition where you are waiting for test results
• Anything you have been to the doctor about in the last year, including minor things
• Any serious conditions you’ve ever had – for example, cancer, heart trouble, respiratory problems or a mental health breakdown

A good tip for everyone, but especially if you have a pre-existing condition, is to buy your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday. If your condition gets worse and forces you to cancel your plans, you’ll be covered from the day the policy starts.

On family group policies, the cost will be determined based on the riskiest traveller (according to insurers), which could be someone with a pre-existing condition or an older individual. In this case, it is often cheaper for the group for that person to get a separate policy.

Add-on options

Add-ons are extras you can purchase in addition to a standard travel insurance policy. They cost a bit more, but you may find you’re not covered without them. 

Gadget insurance

This covers things that a standard policy may not, such as your mobile phone or laptop. If these items are covered, you may find the claim limits are far less than the cost of replacing them.

Before you add this option to your travel insurance, check your home insurance policy, because you may already be covered.

Winter sports/adventure activities

Riskier activities, such as skiing or white water rafting, often require extra holiday insurance because insurers think that you are more likely to need to make a claim doing these things.

Winter sports/adventure activities cover is worth getting, or you may find you are not covered for medical expenses if something goes wrong.

Standard travel insurance is generally meant for land-based holidays so you’ll need to opt for a specialist cruise policy if your holiday is a cruise.

European FCDO travel advice extension

Most standard travel insurance policies are invalid if you travel when the FCDO advises against “all but essential travel”.

This add-on allows you to travel to Europe with a valid travel insurance policy, even if the FCDO has advised against it.

This can be an expensive add-on, but if you really must travel to a risky area, you will need this extension in order to make sure you have cover.

Best holiday insurance summary

Choosing the right travel insurance is an essential part of enjoying peace of mind while you are on holiday.

When looking for the best travel insurance deals, don’t just pick the cheapest policy. Instead, look for the cover limits that match your requirements. For example, baggage cover of £5,000 isn’t worth having if your baggage is worth £1,000; cancellation cover up to £10,000 isn’t worth having if your holiday cost you £2,000.

The easiest way to compare the best travel insurance is usually by using a travel insurance comparison website.

Think about the sort of activities you’ll be doing while you’re away. You may need extra holiday insurance for things such as winter sports or scuba diving or if you are going on a cruise.

Be honest about any pre-existing conditions when buying your travel insurance, or you won’t be covered if you have to claim.

The best travel insurance is a safety net for you and your family to enjoy your trip away stress-free, knowing that you’re covered for everything from medical expenses to cancellations if things go wrong.

Frequently asked questions about the best travel insurance UK packages

Is travel insurance necessary for domestic travel within the uk.

Even where medical costs in the UK are covered by the NHS, a sudden illness could lead to other expenses, forcing you to cancel your trip, the costs of which travel insurance would cover.

Lost or stolen luggage and broken gadgets or other claims for damage can just as easily occur in the UK as abroad.

What is annual travel insurance, and is it a good option for frequent travellers?

Annual travel insurance is a policy that covers you for multiple trips away within any 12-month period. It is often cheaper than buying a separate policy for each trip if you are planning to go away multiple times in one year.

Annual travel insurance is also useful if you are planning a long trip visiting several countries, as often insurers require you to buy travel insurance before you leave the UK rather than abroad mid-trip.

Are there any travel insurance companies that specialise in certain types of trips or travellers?

Specialist travel insurers cater to specific groups of people. It can make sense to seek out travel insurers that cover your needs.

Adventures Insurance, Sports Cover Direct and Snowcard tailor their travel insurance to those who enjoy activity holidays and extreme sports, for example.

Senior travellers are the focus of policies from All Clear, Avanti, Co-op Insurance Services, Free Spirit Flex, Good 2 Go Extra, Goodtogo Insurance, Saga, Staysure and Total Travel Protection.

Insurers offering business trip cover include Allianz, Direct Line, Coverwise and Insure & Go.

How do I make a claim with my travel insurance company?

To claim on your travel insurance while you are away, make sure that you take your policy number with you and the emergency number for your insurer. If you are travelling abroad, take any international numbers too.

Call your insurer as soon as you realise you need to make a claim. Keep all receipts and medical expense forms. If you are travelling with other people, make them aware of your policy details and the insurer’s phone number in case they need to call on your behalf.

To make a claim when you return home, check the following:

• You haven’t left it too late to make a claim
• What you’re claiming for is covered
• The excess is not more than the value of your claim (if so, it’s not worth claiming)

Notify your insurer as soon as possible for a claim form, send it back fast and keep a copy of it. You should also include copies of paperwork to support your claim, such as receipts or medical certificates (keep copies of the originals in case your claim is queried or refused).

Laura Miller

Laura Miller is a freelance journalist, editor, and producer. She has a wealth of consumer finance experience, having written about money matters and business for over 15 years.

During her tenure as a freelance writer, she has worked for ITN, Wired, and The Sunday Times, as well as financial institutions such as Aegon, the Chartered Insurance Institute, and Pension Bee, where she’s presenter of the Pension Confident Podcast.

Laura has previously held roles at The Times, where she was the Acting Editor of Times Money Mentor, The Telegraph as a senior finance reporter and was the co-host of the It’s Your Money Podcast, which was renowned for making complex finance issues accessible, and The Financial Times, where she worked as a News Editor. Laura has also worked at CNN, Politics.co.uk, and as a producer at Radio 5 Live.

Connor Campbell

Connor Campbell is an experienced personal and business finance writer who has been producing online content for almost a decade. 

Connor is the personal finance expert for Independent Advisor, guiding readers through everything they need to know about car insurance and home insurance. From how much it costs to the best insurance providers in the UK, he’s here to help you find the right policy for your needs. 

In his capacity as writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet , Connor explored a number of topics close to his heart, such as the impact of our increasingly cashless society, and the hardships and heroics of British entrepreneurs. His commentary was featured in sites such as The Mirror , the Daily Express and Business Insider . 

At financial trading firm Spreadex, meanwhile, his market commentary was featured in outlets such as The Guardian , BBC , Reuters and the Evening Standard . 

Connor is a voracious reader with an MA in English, and is dedicated to making life’s financial decisions a little bit easier by doing away with jargon and needless complexity.

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6 Best Travel Insurance with COVID-19 Coverage in Singapore (Apr 2024)

COVID-19 might be the last thing on your mind…but it could be the first thing to ruin your next trip. Whether you end up quarantined overseas or have to cancel the holiday entirely, there are plenty of ways COVID-19 could make a vacation go awry. And that’s before you consider things like lost luggage, flight delays , getting pickpocketed, and more.

Good news—there’s an easy way out. Before you jet off to your  dream travel destination , don’t forget to buy travel insurance . Covering you for your potential travel disruptions, travel insurance is the next most important thing besides your flight ticket!

Most insurance providers have added COVID-19 coverage to their travel insurance plans, but to varying extents. Some have COVID-19 as an optional add-0n that you have to purchase. Coverage wise, some providers offer far better COVID-19 protection than others.

Find out how to choose, what to look out for, and the cheapest travel insurance you can buy with our comparison of the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage  in Singapore and their ongoing promotions. Promotions are generous this Apr 2024— you could even win a Rolex Oyster Perpetual , 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000), all-expenses paid trip, or a 2D1N staycation!

Best Travel Insurance in Singapore with COVID-19 Coverage (2024)

• Best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage

Bubblegum Travel Insurance

• FWD travel insurance
• Starr travel insurance
• MSIG travel insurance
• Singlife travel insurance
• Etiqa travel insurance
• Cheapest travel insurance in Singapore
• Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?
• How do I choose the best travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage?
• What do I do if I test positive for COVID-19 during or after travelling?

1. Best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage

With the sheer number of travel insurance providers out there, it can be overwhelming to compare everything against everything else. We know that pain, because that’s exactly what we’ve just done.  Wipe away those tears of exasperation— we’ve done the legwork for you and picked out the top 6 travel insurance plans in Singapore:

Why are these the top 6? We’ve compared them based on affordability, COVID-19 cover inclusion, emergency medical coverage, and trip cancellation coverage. (If you’re an adventure seeker, that’s more niche—refer to this article for all the best travel insurance for extreme sports and outdoor adventure instead.)

Ready to dive into the deets? We compared the coverage and prices of most popular  travel insurance plans with COVID-19 coverage in Singapore. So if you’re looking for a specific type of coverage for your travel needs, e.g. high trip cancellation coverage, this is a better summary table for you to work with:

Note: All travel insurance options above are before promotional discounts are applied. Unless otherwise stated, all include COVID-19 coverage.

Back to top

2. Bubblegum Travel Insurance

Bubblegum Travel Insurance  is a great option if you’re looking for fuss-free, essential coverage at affordable rates. Bubblegum’s travel insurance model is simple, offering just 1 travel insurance plan. Here are its pricing and coverage benefits:

If fuss-free, essential travel insurance is your top priority, we think Bubblegum is a good option for you. Their travel insurance is all-inclusive with coverage for travel inconveniences like cancellations and delays, and also gives you coverage for COVID-19 related expenses at no additional cost.

If you’re a thrill-seeker looking at adventurous activities, Bubblegum Travel Insurance will also cover you for hot air ballooning, scuba diving and skiing, with no restriction on height or depth.

Bubblegum travel insurance promotion

Total Premium

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]   •  Enjoy 10% off  your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. •  Additionally, receive up to S$25 via PayNow with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.

Key Features

Bubblegum offers just 1 affordable plan to suit all your travel needs to maximise your savings

Overseas medical expenses up to $150,000 SGD (Covid-19 sub-limit of $65,000 included)

24-Hour global Emergency Assistance services including Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Covid-19 trip related cancellation/curtailment up to $600 SGD included

Adventurous activities like scuba diving and hot air ballooning are covered with no limit on depth or height.

Bubblegum is currently offering a 10% discount on all their travel insurance plans. That means you can cover a 7-day trip to ASEAN with just $38—about $5+ a day !

Truth is, the discount is even greater when you consider the fact that Bubblegum will also give you My Millennium Points and cashback when you purchase Bubblegum travel insurance:

• Get  2,400 My Millennium Points (worth $16) with every policy purchased.
• Plus, get  $15 Cash via PayNow when you buy a Bubblegum Travel Insurance plan with a premium of $80 to $119.99 OR  $25 Cash via PayNow with a premium of $120 and above.

Promotion valid till 30 Apr 2024.

3. FWD Travel Insurance 

FWD travel insurance offers some of the cheapest travel insurance plans in Singapore, so this is a budget-friendly option which still offers you great value for every dollar. I like that coverage for emergency medical evacuation is unlimited for all tiers, and overseas medical expenses go up to a generous $1,000,000 (which is about as high as it gets).

Here’s a quick run-through of the price and benefits offered by FWD travel insurance plans:

When you’re purchasing FWD travel insurance, the COVID-19 benefits are an add-on. The price of the COVID-19 add-on costs between $11 to $22  depending on the part of the world you’re travelling to. If you choose to add it on, it’ll give you comprehensive coverage of the following:

• Trip disruption
• Trip cancellation
• Overseas hospital cash
• Hospital cash while in Singapore
• Medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

The plan reimburses your travel-related expenses if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 no more than 30 days before your scheduled departure date, or if you have to change your itinerary because of a COVID-19 diagnosis while overseas. You also get to claim medical expenses and a hospital cash benefit if you get hospitalised overseas or for up to 14 days in Singapore upon your return.

On top of that, there’s also an automatic policy extension of up to 21 days should you be prevented from travel as per foreign government regulations due to:

• You contracting COVID-19; or
• You or your travel companion needing to be self-isolated due to being in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19

Read the full T&Cs of FWD’s COVID-19 coverage .

FWD travel insurance promotion

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]     • Enjoy 25% off your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased.  T&Cs apply.     BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)     Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

Enjoy cashless medical outpatient treatment in Singapore, access to emergency assistance and your travel policy documents through the FWD SG app!

Add on coverage for COVID-19 available for both Single & Annual Trips for travel period of 90 days or less.

Optional add on coverage available when your trip is cancelled for any reason for Single Trips. (To be purchased within 7 days of your initial trip deposit for your trip).

Plan Highlights

Covid-19 protection, leisure activities.

Currently, you can take 25% off the prices for all FWD travel insurance tiers. That brings the rate for a 7-day ASEAN trip down to $25 to $42, or just $3+ to $6 a day !

We haven’t gotten to the really good part yet. Purchase FWD Premium , FWD Business , or FWD First travel insurance and stand a chance to win over $10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw ! Prizes include:

• Rolex Oyster Perpetual – 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000)
• All Expenses Paid Trip
• 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)

Promotions valid till 7 Apr 2024 (Prizes 2 and 3) / 30 Apr 2024 (Prize 1).

4. Starr Travel Insurance

Starr’s travel insurance   Starr TraveLead Comprehensive is a leader in terms of how customisable their insurance is. When signing up, medical coverage (including COVID-19 coverage) is automatically included in all plans, but you can choose whether or not you want to add trip coverage (e.g. document loss, travel delay) and baggage coverage (e.g. baggage delay). Then, you can also easily add riders for Golf Protection, Cruise Vacation, Scuba Diving, and Snow Sports.

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive comes in 3 tiers: Gold , Silver and Bronze . While all are pretty comprehensive (as the name suggests), we advise you go for at least Silver . This affords you $500,000 overseas medical coverage, as well as $30,000 medical coverage for COVID-19 and $250 coverage for COVID-19 related trip curtailments and cancellations. You won’t get the COVID-19 trip curtailment/cancellation coverage in the Bronze plan, which only offers $15,000 for COVID-19 medical coverage. Better be safe and  go for Silver or Gold.

Here are the prices and coverage amounts for each tier. Prices are given with trip coverage included in the plan.

Note: Starr also has a travel insurance called Starr TraveLead Essential, which also comes in Bronze , Silver and Gold tiers. They look very attractive because of their low prices—for example, Starr TraveLead Essential Bronze costs just $20 for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination.

However, unless you’re on a really tight budget, I wouldn’t recommend these plans because of their more limited coverage. For example, while the Starr TraveLead Essential Bronze plan does cover you for $200,000 worth of overseas medical expenses (which is already the bare minimum), it doesn’t cover you at all for trip cancellation and loss/damage of baggage. Neither do the Silver or Gold tier plans.

Starr Travel Insurance promotion

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Silver

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy 50% off your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$50 via PayNow with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.   BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)   Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

For Cruise to nowhere insurance: Find out more here

Flexible coverage allows you to create a travel insurance plan with different types of coverage and add-ons that can adapt to your needs

Overseas Covid-19 related medical expenses of up to $30,000 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covid 19 Trip related cancellation/curtailment up to $250 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covers Travel Expenses for return of Child(ren) during the hospitalisation of the insured person.

No sublimit or restriction on outpatient expenses and number of visits

24 hours Global Emergency Assistance Services help you when you need it most, connecting you with medical treatment and transportation

Seamless and Cashless claims via PayNow

Please note that travelling to Russia and Ukraine is not covered in Starr’s insurance with immediate effect.

With the ongoing 42% discount promotion on Starr travel insurance, prices are very affordable. Coverage for a week-long ASEAN trip is just $24+ ($3+ a day), while a trip of the same duration to countries like USA costs $30+ ($4+ a day).

The best part? Purchase Starr TraveLead travel insurance of any tier and stand a chance to win over $10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw ! Prizes include:

5. MSIG Travel Insurance

MSIG travel insurance is categorised into 3 plans— Standard , Elite , and Premier . The cheapest, basic plan still offers pretty adequate coverage in medical emergencies and trip cancellations or delays.

Here’s a quick run-down of the plan’s key benefits:

One more unusual area of coverage that MSIG includes is emergency dental expenses. You get $5,000 to $15,000 in coverage, depending on the travel insurance tier you select.

MSIG’s Areas A and B refer, roughly speaking, to ASEAN and Asia respectively. Here’s a more comprehensive list of the countries in each category:

• Area A : Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam
• Area B : Australia, China (excluding Inner Mongolia and Tibet), Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Macau, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and including countries in Area A
• Area C : Worldwide

MSIG Travel Insurance’s COVID-19 coverage is an automatic inclusion to its travel insurance plans and offers the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation, postponement, shortening, disruption
• Replacement of traveller
• Overseas medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Overseas quarantine daily cash allowance

This is quite a decent list of benefits, but do note that daily hospital cash allowance is missing from the list.

MSIG travel insurance promotion

MSIG TravelEasy Standard

[ Win a Rolex, Dream Vacation & More!   | MoneySmart Exclusive]   • Enjoy up to   40% off your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. • Additionally, receive up to S$45 via PayNow OR 1 x Apple AirTag (worth S$45.40) with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.   BONUS:  For a limited time only, stand a chance to score over S$10,000 worth of prizes in our Grand Draw . • Rolex Oyster Perpetual - 124200 34mm Silver (worth S$9,000) • All Expenses Paid Trip • 2D1N Staycation at any Millennium Hotels and Resorts and 15,000 My Millennium Points (worth up to S$550)   Increase your chances of winning when you refer friends  today. T&Cs apply.

COVID-19 coverage of up to $150,000 medical cover and up to $1,500 travel inconvenience benefit for your trip protection.

Packaged tour coverage for insolvency of licensed travel agencies registered with the Singapore Tourism Board (includes NATAS registered travel agencies).

Get covered across all TravelEasy Plan types with a high limit of S$1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation & repatriation

MSIG provides cover for insolvency of licensed travel agencies registered with the Singapore Tourism Board (includes NATAS registered travel agencies)

Currently, you can take 40% off all MSIG travel insurance plans with their ongoing promotion. That means your 7-day ASEAN trip now costs just $37 to $70 to cover compared to $62 to $116.

On top of the 40% discount, you’ll receive lots of goodies with your MSIG travel insurance purchase:

• Receive  2,400 My Millennium Points (worth $16) with every policy purchased.
• $15 cash via PayNow with a premium of $65 to $119.99
• $25 cash via PayNow with a premium of $120 to $239.99
• $45 cash via PayNow or an Apple AirTag (worth $45.40) with a premium of $240 and above .

Promotion valid till 12 Apr 2024.

6. Singlife Travel Insurance

Singlife travel insurance comes in 3 tiers— Lite , Plus , and Prestige . The price you pay and the coverage you’ll get increase with each plan.

Here are Singlife travel insurance’s key prices and benefits:

On top of the coverage above, Singlife also covers you for chiropractor and/or chinese physician treatment : $250 ($50 per visit) for Lite, $500 ($75 per visit) for Plus, and $1000 ($100 per visit) for Prestige.

As far as COVID-19 coverage goes, here’s a quick run-down:

• Emergency medical evacuation, repatriation
• Overseas quarantine allowance
• Trip cancellation, postponement, interruption

While Singlife travel insurance’s coverage for non-COVID medical expenses, travel delay and trip cancellation is comprehensive, we have to dock some points for the lack of overseas hospital cash allowance and pretty low COVID-19 trip cancellation coverage.

Also, do note that the lowest tier, Lite, doesn’t come with certain coverage, such as trip cancellation or postponement for any reason and COVID-19 overseas quarantine allowance.

Singlife travel insurance promotion

Singlife Travel Plus

[Receive your cash as fast as 30 days*]       •  Enjoy 25% off  your policy premium and 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. •  Additionally, receive up to S$30  via PayNow with eligible premiums spent.  T&Cs apply.

Covers trip cancellation for any reason, T&Cs apply.

Covers trip interruptions or cancellations due to COVID-19 and cover your medical treatment should you contract COVID-19 whilst overseas.

Payout of up to S$150** should your trip be affected by excessive rainfall.

**For single trips (minimum 3 days) where more than 50% of trip duration is affected by rainfall levels of >6.4mm in a 24-hour period.

Seamless claims experience with PayNow

It’s a win-win situation—get 28% off your Singlife travel insurance premiums these goodies thrown in:

• $10 cash via PayNow with a premium of $65 to $129.99
• $20 cash via PayNow with a premium of $130 to $329.99
• $30 cash via PayNow or an Apple AirTag (worth $45.40) with a premium of $330 and above .

Promotion valid till 29 Feb 2024.

7. Etiqa Travel Insurance

Do you hate making travel insurance claims? I do. That’s why when a friend of mine told me that you don’t need to make any claim on Etiqa to receive compensation for your flight delay, I was very intrigued.

I’ve been fortunate—all my recent flights have left on time. But from what I’ve heard from friends who weren’t as lucky on their recent travels, it’s true that Etiqa has the most seamless claim process for flight delays . All you need to do is enter your flight details when purchasing your insurance. Etiqa will monitor your flight and know if your flight is delayed (to count as a delay, it needs to be pushed back at least 3 consecutive hours). If that happens, they’ll transfer money into your Etiqa TiqConnect eWallet—even if you don’t submit a claim! You can then encash that sum via PayNow.

On top of this travel delay claim benefit, Etiqa also provides flight check-in reminders and baggage belt collection details via SMS when you land. I’ve experienced this myself when I bought Etiqa’s travel insurance for my trip to the UK this year. Now that’s what I call service.

Etiqa’s travel insurance is called Tiq Travel Insurance  and comes in 3 tiers: Tiq Entry , Tiq Savvy , and Tiq Luxury . Here are their costs and coverage components:

Tiq Entry is sufficient to give you essential coverage for travel disruptions. But if you’ve just a little more to spend, go for Tiq Savvy . This will more than double your coverage limit for overseas medical expenses from $200,000 to $500,000 for just an additional $5 a week—that’s less than $1 a day.

[MoneySmart Exclusive]    • Enjoy 40% off your Single Trip policy premium and 60% off Covid-19 add-on for Annual Plans. T&Cs apply • Additionally, receive 2,400 My Millennium Points (worth S$16) with every policy purchased. T&Cs apply.    [Etiqa's 10th Year 2024 Grand Draw] Stand a chance to win S$10,000 cash or a Singapore Mint Lunar Dragon 1 gram 999.9 fine gold medallion (worth S$173) with eligible Etiqa/Tiq by Etiqa plans purchased. T&Cs apply.

Comprehensive COVID-19 add-on, protecting you before, during and after your trip

Covers Cruise to Nowhere

Get paid upon a 3-hour flight delay, even without submitting a claim

Instant claims encashment via PayNow

24-hour worldwide emergency travel support

The only disadvantage to Tiq travel insurance is that COVID-19 coverage is not included in the base price and you’ll have to pay for their optional  COVID-19 Add-On to be covered. Some people might say this is an advantage—it gives you a greater degree of flexibility to decide if you want to have COVID-19 coverage or not, especially as COVID-19 becomes less and less prevalent. However, the fact remains that you need to pay extra for it compared to travel insurance plans where COVID-19 coverage is already included.

Here’s how much the COVID-19 Add-On will cost for a 7-day trip:

To be covered for travel disruptions and medical expenses related to COVID-19, you’ll need to add the costs above to the base Tiq travel insurance prices.

Etiqa travel insurance promotion

Comprehensive Covid-19 add-on, protecting you before, during and after your trip

Enjoy  40% off Tiq Single Trip Travel Insurance plans —that means your week-long ASEAN trip now costs just $23 instead of $39 under Tiq Entry.

Getting annual travel insurance instead? Get  60% off COVID-19 add-on for Annual Plans!

From now till 15 Aug 2024, purchase Tiq travel insurance to enter  Etiqa’s 10th Year 2024 Grand Draw . 5 lucky winners will walk away with  $10,000 cash , and 150 will receive a S ingapore Mint Lunar Dragon 1 gram 999.9 fine gold medallion (worth $173)!

8. Cheapest travel insurance in Singapore

When I buy travel insurance, I don’t really care whether the insurer has 900 years of experience or if the plan comes with extra coverage for Chanel bags. Just give me the cheapest travel insurance plan can  l iao !

If that sounds like you too, you’ll be glad to know we’ve done the legwork for you. After assessing the most popular travel insurers in Singapore, the honour of cheapest travel insurance in Singapore goes to… FWD travel insurance .

FWD Premium

But as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Will you regret being a cheapskate and lose out on important coverage if the only number you look at is the price?

In a way, yes. Because FWD travel insurance is only the cheapest option with 2 caveats.

Firstly, travel insurers have limited-time discounts all the time. This is no secret. It does, however, make it difficult to compare prices when an expensive plan is on 40% off but a cheaper one is on 10% off. That’s why for the table above, we compared base prices without discounts .

But when you take into account promotional prices, which plan is the cheapest? There’s no need to open a million tabs to compare every travel insurance plan out there. Just use our travel insurance comparison tool with the “Lowest Price” filter  on. You’re welcome!

The second caveat is this: FWD came out the cheapest when we looked at its price  without its COVID-19 add-on. If you’re looking for a travel insurance plan that includes coverage for disruptions due to COVID-19 (which you should!), the real winners are  Amex travel insurance and  Starr travel insurance .

Starr TraveLead Comprehensive Bronze

Personalise your travel insurance-Flexible coverage allows you to create a travel insurance plan with different types of coverage and addon that can adapt to your needs

Overseas Covid-19 related medical expenses of up to $15,000 SGD included (Excluding China).

Covers travel expenses for sending back an unattended child during the hospitalisation of the insured person

At the end of the day, ask yourself what specific travel insurance coverage you want to have, and assess the travel insurance options to find one that suits your needs.

Need some help? Read our travel insurance guide to understand all you need to know about choosing the best travel insurance. Don’t forget to use our travel insurance comparison tool to seamlessly compare plans across different providers in Singapore.

9. Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, most insurers did not extend their coverage to COVID-19-related mishaps. (Read more here .) The pandemic was quickly considered a “known event”, which insurers usually do not offer compensation for. So, if your flight got cancelled because of COVID-19, you’d be out of luck trying to get your insurance claims approved.

Now that practically all travel restrictions are lifted, insurance companies are rushing for a slice of the pie. Since the virus looks like it’s here to stay, most insurers are offering coverage that includes specific benefits for COVID-19. Where COVID-19 benefits aren’t already included in the policy, insurers offer an optional COVID-19 rider you can pay for to add on to the existing regular coverage.

Read your policy documents carefully to see if COVID-19 is covered, and add it on if you need to.

10. How do I choose the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage?

COVID-19 coverage  can vary quite a bit from insurer to insurer . When you’re shopping for the best insurance policy,  there are 4 things you want to look out for when it comes to choosing the best travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage:

• Medical expenses coverage

Do note that the plans still exclude travelling against a travel advisory put in place by the Singapore government or by the local authority at your trip destination. Meaning, if your destination country goes on red alert for COVID-19, visitors are highly likely to come into contact with the virus and your insurance is highly likely to reject any COVID-19 claims. So be sure to check announcements on both ends before you depart.

Another common exclusion is failing to take precautions against COVID-19. This is worded kinda vaguely in those lengthy insurance policies, but could include not following any COVID-19 regulations at your destination or on the plane. So make sure you wear your mask whenever it’s required (or even when it’s not, if you want to play extra safe) and don’t attend any illegal raves.

11. What do I do if I get COVID-19 during or after my travels?

First of all, when booking your trip, you should retain all receipts, tickets and itineraries in case your trip has to be cancelled or altered.

At the first sign of a COVID-19 infection or related travel disruption, you should call your insurer and ask for guidance. Many insurers maintain a 24-hour hotline for travel claims. Save that number before you depart Singapore so that you aren’t stuck somewhere without wi-fi or 4G to Google the hotline.

To make a claim , you will usually have to submit your insurer’s form with supporting documents by the deadline mentioned in your contract (usually 30 days). Don’t wait until you’re back in Singapore to check which documents you need.

If you catch COVID-19 while you’re in Singapore , you will likely have to submit the results of a PCR Swab Test or Antigen Rapid Test conducted at a clinic or hospital.

It gets a bit more complicated if you’re overseas . The insurer will likely require documentation from the hospital as well as a doctor’s letter stating that you are unfit to travel and/or recommending treatment.

If you need to be quarantined overseas , you should make sure you have a quarantine order from the government, otherwise you may not be able to claim for quarantine allowance. Remember to ask for this as not all countries automatically issue such documentation.

ALSO READ: COVID-19 Travel Insurance Claim Guide

Planning to get travel insurance for your next trip? Learn how to claim for COVID-19 here!

About the author

Vanessa Nah  is a personal finance content writer who pens articles on the ins and outs of travel insurance, the T&Cs of credit cards, and the ups and downs of alternative investments. She’s a researcher at heart and leaves no stone unturned when it comes to breaking down complex finance concepts and making them easy to understand for the everyday Singaporean. When Vanessa’s not debunking finance myths, you’ll find her attending dance classes, fingerpicking a guitar, or (most im paw tently) fulfilling her life mission to make her one-eyed cat the most spoiled and loved kitty in the world.

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How Much Does It Cost To Travel With Pets?

• Best for Senior Pets
• Best for Customization
• Best for Bundling
• Best for Preexisting Conditions
• Best for Alternative Therapy
• Best for Exotic Pets
• Best for Unlimited Coverage

How We Rate Pet Insurance

Best cheap pet insurance companies of april 2024.

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

Many pet owners may be reluctant add the cost of pet insurance to their monthly budget. However, most pet owners will experience at least one pet emergency and spend between $2,000 to $4,000, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA). While the most comprehensive pet insurance may be out of your budget, there are cheap pet insurance options available that will give you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Best Price: Pets Best Pet Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers pet insurance with unlimited coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers deductibles of as low as $50 and as high as $1,000 annually
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Company partners with large insurance companies like GEICO
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Rates can be extremely affordable for pets of all breeds
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage is available in all 50 states and Washington, DC
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Alternative and holistic treatments may not be included
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Customer reviews indicate claims processing may take longer

If you're looking for pet insurance at a cheap rate, Pets Best Pet Insurance has some of the lowest prices in the industry. You can go to any licensed veterinarian. However, it should be noted that in Insider's staff experiences with Pets Best policies, the reimbursement rate is also applied to your deductible.

So if you had a $500 deductible with 90% reimbursement, a $500 claim would leave you with another $50 left on your deductible, with charges applied based on the 90% reimbursement rate. This is not unusual, but it should factor into your budget and policy choices.

Pets Best offers three types of plans: accident-only, accident and illness, and a wellness plan. With highly customizable options, you can further lower your rate. Plus, the insurer doesn't have an age gap on pet insurance.

Unfortunately, if you're looking for alternative treatments like herbal and holistic treatments, consider searching elsewhere.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%
• Deductible options: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $20; Cats - $12

Read our Pets Best Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Senior Pets: Figo Pet Insurance

Offers coinsurance of up to 100% of each eligible bill with no annual limit

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 3 popular pet insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Riders available for preventative care and routine vet services
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Excludes certain genetic issues and preexisting conditions
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Insurer recommends submitting 12 months of vet records with your application
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Any claim filed in the first 6 months may be registered as a preexisting condition

Figo pet insurance offers aggressive pet insurance coverage options to ensure your pet gets the veterinary care they need in an emergency. Figo offers easy online quotes, and Costco members qualify for discounts on its pet insurance plans.

Many pet insurance providers will only insure pets younger than 14. Insurers may put an age cap on eligibility because pets, like humans, tend to develop health conditions as they age. However, Figo Pet Insurance will insure your furry friend, regardless of age. Whatever plan you consider, understand pet insurance companies will not cover preexisting conditions . For dogs or cats with a history of allergies, cancer, diabetes, or other conditions, this would still leave pet parents on the hook for related bills if diagnosed before buying your plan.

Figo offers three plans: the Essential plan, the Preferred plan, and the Unlimited plan. This insurer provides ample coverage choices to customize your policy based on your pet's needs and your budget.

Unfortunately, Figo doesn't sell a basic, accident-only plan, which is generally cheaper than an accident-illness or wellness program. Additionally, while it reimburses you, you must pay your vet bills upfront. Many pet parents resolve this issue using services like CareCredit, which can be paid off after completing the claim. If you're interested in Figo, we recommend Costco members go through the retail giant's partnership with Figo as you get 15% off standard premiums.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, $10,000, unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500, $750
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $26; Cats - $14

Read our Figo Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Customization: Spot Pet Insurance

Offers coinsurance of up to 90% of each eligible bill with no annual limit

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wellness plans and accident and illness plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states with comprehensive coverage options
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage available for senior dogs and cats
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pets have to be at least 8 weeks for coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not offer coverage for exotic pets

Spot pet insurance provides comprehensive pet insurance, including an allowance for end-of-life memorials. Some plan upgrades cover dental cleanings and other costly services.

With Spot Pet Insurance , you have nine annual coverage limits, three reimbursement, and five deductible options. This insurer offers an excellent range of policy coverages to mix and match as you choose. Of course, your monthly premiums will vary accordingly.

Spot pet insurance also offers an accident-only and accident-illness plan. The company as a wider range of pet coverage that many competitors lack, like prescription food and behavioral modification. Based on our research at the time of this guide, Spot doesn't sell wellness plans. However, you can add the gold and platinum preventative care plan to supplement your policy.

• Annual coverage options: $2,500, $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, $15,000, $20,000, unlimited
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $28; Cats - $14

Read our Spot Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Bundling: Lemonade Pet Insurance

10% off your policy for bundling insurance products; 5% off your policy for insuring multiple pets; and 5% off your policy for enrolling in the annual payment plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. $12 premiums for basic care
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Add-ons available for other preventative care
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comprehensive mobile experience for claims and support
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available in 37 states and Washington DC
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No 24/7 telehealth line for veterinary advice

Lemonade offers auto, homeowners, renters, pet, and life insurance. It's been around since 2015 and is known for offering some of the lowest rates. Lemonade ranks on J.D. Power's customer satisfaction surveys for renters insurance, however, it doesn't rank for life and homeowners insurance.

• Discounts for bundling policies and having multiple pets
• Starts at $10 a month
• Offers a discount for enrolling in an annual payment plan

Lemonade Pet Insurance is a relatively new pet insurance company. Aside from pet insurance, it also offers home, car, and renters insurance (which received high marks for customer satisfaction). So you can bundle your pet insurance with other products for 10% additional savings.

If you're a tech-savvy shopper, you may appreciate Lemonade's highly-rated mobile app and user-friendly digital platform. You could purchase a policy, manage your claims, and access your insurance ID at the touch of your fingertip. Unfortunately, Lemonade is not available in all states yet. So be sure to check and see if Lemonade is available to you. But with up to $100,000 in annual coverage, Lemonade covers most significant health events for pets.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $28; Cats- $14

Read our Lemonade Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Preexisting Conditions: ASPCA Pet Insurance

Offers coinsurance of up to 90% of each eligible bill with a maximum of up to $10,000 per year

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage available for dogs, cats, and horses
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No age limits for coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to 90% reimbursement after deductible
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Royalties go back to the ASPCA to care for homeless pets
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claim processing may be long
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Available coverage tapers off with age

ASPCA pet insurance is not sold or underwritten by the ASPCA. However, the ASPCA collects royalties on sales made to support its operations and aid homeless pets.

Unfortunately, all pet insurance providers exclude preexisting conditions from coverage. This is because pet insurance companies have to mediate risk to keep premiums low for everyone. However, several companies will cover preexisting conditions if your pet has been symptom- and treatment-free for some time. ASPCA Pet Insurance is one of those providers.

ASPCA pet insurance will cover curable preexisting conditions if your cat, dog, and even horses if your pet has been symptom-free for over 180 days (excluding ligament and knee conditions).

With ASPCA pet insurance, you choose an accident-only, accident and illness, and preventative care plan. ASPCA pet insurance's comprehensive programs cover alternative therapies, behavioral issues, and congenital and hereditary conditions. The provider even covers pet microchipping. When going through the quoting process online, we were told we must speak to a live representative to obtain a quote for unlimited annual coverage.

• Annual coverage options: $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $33; Cats - $17

Read our ASPCA Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Alternative Therapy: Healthy Paws Pet Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unlimited coverage options available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Average claims processing time of 2 days
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Low deductible options
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Healthy Paws may cover curable preexisting conditions after a waiting period
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage may decrease with age
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Rates may be higher than some competitors

Healthy Paws offers comprehensive and affordable pet insurance plans with unlimited coverage, high reimbursement options, and more. These features earned it a spot on our guide to the best pet insurance. However, Healthy Paws does not cover preventative care, encouraging pet parents to budget for known annual costs.

Only a few providers offer alternative medicine if you prefer to take the holistic and herbal route when seeking treatment for your pet. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance offers a comprehensive list of non-invasive forms of therapy, including acupuncture, hydrotherapy, physical therapy, laser therapy, and massage care, as long as a licensed veterinarian provides the treatment.

The trade-off, however, is Healthy Paws won't cover preventative and wellness care. Its site specifies Healthy Paws believes wellness costs can be planned for. For example, you expect to do a yearly exam and get updated vaccines, and even if you save a little bit each month, you can plan accordingly. However, accidents and severe chronic illnesses are difficult to plan for, and costs are frequently unreasonable. So Healthy Paws focuses on the most significant area of need it sees.

• Annual coverage options: Unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
• Deductible options: $50, $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $37; Cats - $18

Read our Healthy Paws Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Exotic Pets: Nationwide Pet Insurance

Finding cheap pet insurance may be challenging if you have an exotic pet like a bird, rabbit, or reptile. Nationwide Pet Insurance is currently the only pet insurance company to offer wide-reaching coverage for many exotic pets. Other companies offer "discount plans," much like human prescription discount plans. However, you'd have to work with specific vets, and coverage would be specific to the treatment provided.

Nationwide pet insurance offers three pet insurance plans:

• Major Medical (accident and illness plan)
• Whole Pet (more comprehensive accident and illness plan)
• A wellness plan

Nationwide offers various conditions in its plans. However, the coverage is set. Nationwide's sample accident and illness policy broke down many potential diagnoses with primary and secondary diagnoses allowances. Ultimately, each buyer will receive a policy breakdown. However, Nationwide is a more expensive pet insurance provider with limited flexibility.

• Annual coverage options: Per condition
• Reimbursement options: 50%, 70%, 90%
• Deductible options: $250
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $35; Cats - $14

Read our Nationwide Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Unlimited Coverage: Trupanion Pet Insurance

Trupanion Pet Insurance is one of the pricier insurers on this list. Also, it offers a limited selection of policy options. However, if you're looking for a plan with unlimited coverage, Trupanion may be your winner. Unfortunately, we've all heard of the unexpected accident or illness in an otherwise healthy pet calling for emergency care.

Some emergency surgeries can easily surpass $20,000, and you might be on the hook for follow-up care, rehab, and even further surgeries. These are the times when unlimited care could be the saving grace to save your furry friend.

Trupanion offers deductibles ranging from $0 to $1,000. What's unique about this insurer is you'll only have to pay the deductible once per condition. For example, say your pet develops an illness requiring ongoing treatment. While most insurers will need you to pay a deductible yearly, you'll only have to pay your deductible once when the condition appears, potentially saving you money. This is handy for chronic conditions like allergies, diabetes, and cancer.

• Reimbursement options: 90%
• Deductible options: $0 to $1000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $50; Cats - $22

Read our Trupanion Pet Insurance review here.

We review a company based on several benchmarks and compare it against the industry standard.

• Affordability: We consider an insurer cheap if it meets or is below the industry average premiums. We also compare the prices against its competitors.
• Policy customization: We look at the breadth of an insurer's policy options. Policy options include the number of annual coverages, deductibles, and reimbursement options. The price is not the only determining factor if you compare a $50 for unlimited coverage with 80% reimbursement with a $10 policy with a $5,000 annual cap.
• Waiting period: A waiting period is the time between purchasing a policy and when coverage kicks in. The average waiting period for accident coverage is three days, and fourteen days for illness coverage. However, waiting periods for genetic conditions and serious illnesses could last a year.
• Types of policies available: The best pet insurance companies typically offer three types of plans: accident-only, accident-illness, and wellness plans. We look through an insurer's website to determine if it sells some variation of those three plans.
• Exclusions: Pets come in all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, insurance companies will exclude some pets from coverage, like older pets or even those with curable preexisting conditions.
• Company offerings: We look at the extensiveness of a company's policies. Some insurers offer coverage for microchipping, alternative medicine, and other unique conditions.

We go into further detail in our insurance rating methodology .

Which dog breed qualifies for the cheapest pet insurance?

Small, spayed, female mixed-breed dogs are the cheapest to insure, according to North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).

How much is a reasonable deductible for pet insurance?

Consider your needs before choosing a deductible. Choosing a high deductible may lower your monthly premiums. However, to start your coverage as soon as possible, consider choosing a low deductible, like $100 to $500.

When should you use pet insurance?

You'll decide what coverage you're willing to pay for upfront. However, whenever you have a qualifying claim, you should file a claim with your pet insurance provider. Insurance providers may have a time limit on claims, and you have to fulfill your annual deductible before full coverage will kick in.

What is the cheapest pet insurance?

Pets Best pet insurance costs an average of $20 for dogs and $12 for cats, the lowest prices among its competitors. Prices will vary based on your pet's age and breed. 

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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Best term life insurance for 2024

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Best term life insurance companies

How to find the best term life insurance company for you, frequently asked questions.

Not everyone needs life insurance that covers you for your entire life. For anyone looking for more temporary coverage — like those with young children or a mortgage to pay off — there is term life insurance. Term life insurance provides coverage for a pre-set period of time, which is usually between 10 and 30 years. In exchange for your regularly paid premium, your beneficiaries receive a payout if you die while the policy is active. However, the payout tends to be lower compared to other types of life insurance policies. Bankrate’s guide to the best term life insurance can help you find an insurer that meets your policy needs and budget.

Compare life insurance providers quickly and easily

See which provider is right for you.

Whole life insurance combines life insurance with an investment component.

• Coverage for life
• Tax-deferred savings benefit if premiums are paid
• 3 variations of permanent insurance: whole life, universal life and variable life include investment component

Term life insurance is precisely what the name implies: an insurance policy that is good for a specific term of time.

• Fixed premium over term
• No savings benefits
• Outliving policy or policy cancellation results in no money back

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The best term life insurance companies depend on an individual’s needs and preferences. While your quoted premium will typically not vary as much as for life quotes as home or auto insurance, different companies do offer different coverage types and levels. We chose the following companies based on their third-party financial strength and J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores , as well as the policy options and available coverage capacities (the maximum dollar amount a policy can be). It may be helpful to start your research with the following providers:

Why we chose it: State Farm has the highest J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction on our list.

State Farm is our 2024 Bankrate Awards winner for Best Term Life Insurer for the third year in a row thanks to its superior AM Best score and near-nationwide availability. State Farm offers several term insurance products, but its return-of-premium policy option may be particularly helpful for certain term life insurance policyholders. This add-on coverage (also known as a life insurance rider ) lets policyholders choose between a 20- or 30-year payment term and receive a portion of their premiums back if they outlive the term. The return-of-premium policy can be renewed annually until age 95. While the return-of-premium option comes at an additional cost, it also builds cash value , which is rare in a term life insurance policy.

Why we chose it: Mutual of Omaha offers easy online quoting for its term life insurance policies and a wide array of riders for potential policy customization.

If you want to get an idea of how much term life insurance might cost, Mutual of Omaha offers a term life insurance quote tool online. Enter your gender, date of birth, tobacco usage and coverage amount to get a rate. Mutual of Omaha offers a plethora of additional riders that can be added to its term life policies. It should be noted that not every rider can be used with every type of policy. To verify how much coverage you need and which riders can be added to your policy, you may want to consult with an agent. This company also offers a locator service to help you find a financial advisor near you.

Why we chose it: Pacific Life has term life insurance policy options with high coverage levels.

Anyone wanting to tailor their term life insurance with riders or purchase higher coverage limits might consider Pacific Life for term life insurance. The carrier offers two policy options, Promise Term and Elite Term, both of which are convertible to cash value life insurance. Its Promise Term policy offers a minimum amount of $50,000 in coverage, while the Elite Term starts at $750,000 and goes to $3 million or more. Available options include a waiver of premium for disability, as well as a terminal illness and child term rider.

Why we chose it: Northwestern Mutual offers a wide array of informational resources and policy management tools online.

Northwestern Mutual is the largest life insurer in the U.S. by direct premiums written, with just over 7 percent of the total market share. The company has been insuring consumers for more than 150 years. Its term policies allow you to select your coverage period based on either a set amount of years or until a specific age, depending on which option is most suitable for you. Northwestern Mutual plans are also convertible to whole life insurance , meaning you may be able to adjust your policy as your needs evolve. The company’s A++ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best is the highest level available. However, the company only offers one term life insurance rider, so if you want greater policy customization, it may not be the carrier for you.

Why we chose it: Guardian life insurance offers four different term lengths and a long list of potential riders.

Guardian's term life insurance policies are available in four term lengths. The carrier also has a long list of riders for potential policy customization, including a guaranteed renewability clause in the event that you are diagnosed with a serious illness. However, be aware that the company does not offer a network of local agents, so if you prefer to handle your insurance needs face-to-face, you may not be satisfied with the level of service.

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a quality term life insurance policy. Since your life insurance will ultimately be responsible for providing the coverage you want for your family, these considerations may be beneficial to keep in mind when determining which provider is right for you. In addition to policy types, you could consider the following.

Consider customer satisfaction scores and financial strength ratings

Customer satisfaction scores may provide insight for consumers looking to purchase insurance products. These scores reflect how satisfied existing customers may be with the customer service and claims process. You might use these scores to get an idea of how your customer experience could be and which carrier might best fit your expectations.

A life insurance company’s financial strength score reflects its past ability to pay out claims and could help you decide if a company is financially sound. Third-party agencies such as AM Best and S&P publish financial strength ratings for each major provider.

Consider your personal situation

Term life insurance remains active for only a set number of years. To decide whether term life insurance is right for you, it may be helpful to consider what you want coverage for. Do you simply want coverage while your children are young, or would you prefer lifelong coverage?

While term life insurance may be sufficient for temporary needs, like ensuring you could pay off debt and finance college for your kids if you were to pass away, it may not be the right choice if you want coverage for longer. If you need coverage for final expenses or to take care of a lifelong dependent, permanent life insurance may be a better choice. There are several options to choose from, including:

• Whole life insurance : Whole life offers level premiums and a guaranteed death benefit for life. It also builds cash value over time, which you may be able to access through withdrawals or loans. 
• Universal life insurance : Similar to whole life, universal life offers permanent coverage with more flexibility. You can increase or decrease premium payments or the death benefit if life circumstances change. 
• Final expense life insurance : If you only need a small amount of coverage or have serious health issues, final expense life insurance may be your best option. It works like whole life, but doesn’t require a medical exam. Some policies are guaranteed issue, meaning there is no medical exam or health questions on the application. 

Compare multiple quotes

Getting quotes for different types and levels of coverage may help you get an idea of how much you’ll pay for your life insurance. However, keep in mind that term life insurance quotes for the same person and policy type likely won’t vary as much from company to company as auto insurance or home insurance quotes do.

How does term life insurance work?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance that offers coverage for a set period of time, or term. Term life is usually the most affordable type of life insurance because it only lasts for a specific number of years, usually 10 to 30 years. Unless you buy return-of-premium life insurance, you receive nothing back if you outlive the term. However, many term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a permanent life insurance policy at the end of the term. Many carriers also provide the option to renew a term life policy annually if you still need coverage past the expiration date.

What is the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Term insurance is designed to provide a death benefit if the insured passes away within the policy term. As the name suggests, term life insurance remains active for a predetermined “term,” which is the window of time that the policyholder chooses — typically between 10 and 30 years. When the term expires, the policyholder stops paying the premiums and the death benefit will no longer be paid out. Whole life insurance , on the other hand, is a type of permanent policy that pays out when the insured dies as long as premiums are paid. It typically contains two parts: a death benefit and a cash value component. Because whole life insurance policies usually have larger payouts, premiums can be two to three times more expensive than a term policy.

What factors impact my life insurance premium?

Life insurance premiums are largely based on mortality risk. In general, the higher the likelihood someone has of passing away while the policy is active, the higher the premium will be. Each insurer has its own underwriting algorithm for calculating your rate. Although each underwriting process is different, your age, gender, weight, health conditions, smoking history and occupation are typically used to help calculate your premium. The amount of coverage that you want to purchase is another key factor in determining the cost of life insurance . For those looking for cheap life insurance , it may be wiser to start shopping at a younger age.

Does having a preexisting condition impact my ability to purchase term life insurance?

Yes, having a preexisting condition may impact your ability to purchase term life insurance. Different conditions may be considered more or less serious by different insurers. If a life insurance provider does approve you for a term life policy with a preexisting condition, your premium may be high to reflect the health risks. Insurance providers may be more likely to approve you if you have conditions that can be managed. For instance, if you have Type 2 diabetes and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you may be more likely to be approved for term life insurance. If you have a preexisting condition, speaking with a licensed insurance agent may help you navigate your life insurance options.

Is term life insurance cheaper than whole life insurance?

The cost of life insurance will vary based on your policy details and personal rating factors, but term life insurance coverage is typically cheaper than whole life insurance, a type of permanent coverage. This is because whole life insurance is designed to offer coverage for your entire life and guarantee a payout to your beneficiaries, as long as premiums are paid and terms of the policy are met. Term coverage, on the other hand, may not pay out a death benefit if you outlive the policy term and do not renew your coverage. That being said, the cost of life insurance coverage varies based on coverage amount and individual risk rating factors, so a term policy with a high coverage amount for an older individual may cost more than a permanent policy for a younger applicant with a low coverage amount.