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Travel Insurance

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For flight insurance protection:

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For all-in-one trip insurance protection:

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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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Cost of Travel Insurance

• Factors Influencing Cost
• Top Companies
• How To Save
• How To Choose

The Bottom Line

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How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Average costs and how travel insurance premiums are set

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Travel insurance can protect your financial investment in a trip by offering reimbursement if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons, as well as providing emergency medical care and other benefits. Generally speaking, you can expect travel insurance to cost between 4% and 10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost. Younger travelers will usually pay less for comparable coverage than older travelers. Benefits also vary by plan, and you’ll pay more for comprehensive coverage with higher limits. 

We’ll cover the cost of travel insurance from six popular companies, the factors influencing the cost of travel insurance, and the best companies to consider. 

Key Takeaways

• Travel insurance can protect your financial investment in a trip by offering reimbursement if your travel plans are canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons, as well as providing emergency medical care and other benefits.
• Generally speaking, you can expect travel insurance to cost between 4% and 10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost.
• Younger travelers will usually pay less for comparable coverage than older travelers.
• Benefits also vary by plan, and you’ll pay more for comprehensive coverage with higher limits. 

Compare travel insurance quotes on TravelInsurance.com .

The cost of travel insurance varies based on your age, trip cost, and the company and plan you select. To give you an idea of what you might pay for a travel insurance plan, we collected quotes for two ages and trip costs for an eight-day trip to Costa Rica booked the day of the query and departing from Florida in three months. Quotes are per traveler and do not include optional upgrades. 

Emergency medical coverage in a travel insurance policy is often secondary to your primary health insurance. This means you must first file a claim with your primary insurance company to determine how much your travel insurance policy will cover.

Other Companies to Consider

• InsureMyTrip
• World Nomads
• GeoBlue (medical only)

Factors Influencing Travel Insurance Costs

When purchasing travel insurance, your trip length may impact which policies you can get, and the timing of your purchase might impact whether preexisting medical conditions are covered—but these factors don’t typically impact your premium. Your destination also doesn’t influence your premium. Costa Rica travel insurance will cost the same as travel insurance for a trip to Europe, provided all other factors are equal. Instead, the cost of travel insurance is based on the following factors. 

Travel insurance is more expensive for people who are older since they’re at a greater risk of having medical problems. Travel insurance companies charge a higher premium to account for that risk. However, even if you’re traveling in retirement, you probably can find low-cost travel insurance that meets your needs. 

Premiums are also calculated based on your total trip cost. Since it costs more to reimburse a $10,000 canceled trip than a $1,000 trip, insurance companies charge higher premiums for more expensive trips. 

The higher your coverage limits and the more benefits you add (e.g., cancel for any reason , adventure sports coverage, pet medical), the more expensive your premium will be. Companies often present a selection of plans at different tiers or benefit levels. 

Top Travel Insurance Companies

• Travelex : Travelex offers plans with trip interruption coverage of up to 150% and emergency evacuation coverage of up to $500,000. Optional upgrades include adventure sports coverage, cancel-for-any-reason coverage , pet medical, pet return, and additional medical coverage of $50,000 for medical expenses and $500,000 of medical evacuation coverage. Travelex policies are underwritten by two reliable companies, Berkshire Hathaway and Zurich Insurance Group, which earn an A++ (Superior) and A+ (Superior) AM Best financial-strength rating, respectively.
• Allianz Travel Insurance : Allianz offers a variety of single and multi-trip plans, and you can opt to buy medical coverage or travel cancellation coverage separately. The company offers high coverage limits, and most plans include epidemic coverage for COVID-19. For a single trip, Allianz offers up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and up to $250,000 for emergency medical transportation. Cancel anytime coverage and rental car coverage are available as optional upgrades. Also, the two underwriters for Allianz, Jefferson Insurance Company and BCS Insurance Company, earned financial strength ratings of A+ (Superior) and A- (Excellent) from AM Best.
• HTH Travel Insurance : HTH offers short and long-term medical plans along with full trip protection plans. Plans offer high medical coverage limits, with at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation. The company reimburses up to 200% of the trip cost due to interruption. All plans also include at least $500 in trip-delay coverage and $250 in missed-connection coverage. Plans are underwritten by Nationwide, which has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. Also, more than 90% of customers on travel insurance marketplace InsureMyTrip recommend the coverage.  
• Nationwide : Nationwide offers single- and multi-trip plans along with a package designed for cruises. Plans are comprehensive, covering at least $75,000 in emergency medical and $250,000 for medical evacuation coverage, as well as reimbursement for up to 125% of the trip cost due to interruption, depending on the plan. Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) and rental car coverage are available as add-ons, and COVID-19 diagnosis may be covered as part of your trip-cancellation coverage. Nationwide has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating with AM Best.
• Seven Corners : Seven Corners’ offerings include travel medical, trip insurance, and annual plans. Trip insurance plans offer at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $250,000 for emergency medical evacuation. However, the basic plan doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. Add-ons include rental car coverage and optional cancel-for-any-reason and interrupt-for-any-reason coverage. COVID-19 diagnoses are treated the same as other illnesses that trigger coverage. Trip interruption and cancellation policies are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance (USFI), which has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. Travel medical policies are underwritten by USFI if you live in Colorado, Maryland, New York, and South Dakota, and either Lloyd’s of London or Crum & Forster SPC if you live in other states.
• Travel Guard by AIG : Travel Guard offers some of the cheapest premiums we could find, especially for young people, but medical limits on the basic plan may not be sufficient. Trip insurance plans offer at least $15,000 in emergency medical coverage and $150,000 for emergency medical evacuation. However, you may need to purchase an exclusion waiver to get coverage for preexisting medical conditions. COVID-19 is treated like other illnesses under the plan. The company offers few upgrades, but rental car coverage is available. AIG has an A (Excellent) financial strength rating with AM Best.

How To Save Money on Travel Insurance Costs

• Don’t pay for coverage you don’t need : Check what’s covered by your credit card, health insurance, homeowners insurance, and, in some cases, car insurance, and try to get a policy that fills in the gaps.
• Compare premiums across companies : While the cheapest plan isn’t necessarily the best, some companies may offer better rates than others for the same coverage. For example, some companies are more affordable for older travelers. It’s a good idea to compare quotes for the coverage you need. 
• Consider an annual plan : If you travel frequently, you may save money by purchasing an annual plan. But you should compare a plan’s benefits and make sure you’re getting more bang for your buck vs. a trip-based plan. Also, keep in mind that annual plans may not be available in all states. 
• Avoid cancel-for-any-reason coverage if possible : You might think you can rest easier with cancel-for-any-reason coverage, but these policies typically cost significantly more and often provide inferior coverage. You should avoid this coverage type unless it’s necessary for your trip. 

How To Choose the Best Travel Insurance

Decide which coverage types are important to you.

Travel insurance is a package of coverages that may include some or all of the following:

• Travel cancellation and interruption : Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or interrupted for certain reasons, like an injury or unforeseen natural disaster
• Travel medical coverage : Provides temporary health insurance if you become sick or injured while traveling
• Emergency medical evacuation : Pays to evacuate you to the closest adequate medical facility if necessary
• Accidental death & dismemberment : Pays a sum to you if you lose a limb or to your beneficiaries if you die in an accident
• Baggage loss or damage : Reimburses you for lost or damaged baggage and personal items
• Cancel-for-any-reason coverage : Allows you to cancel in any circumstance and receive partial reimbursement, but it’s more costly. 

Some travel insurance packages may also include extras like car rental coverage, baggage delay, pet medical, and missed connection coverage. Most travel insurance plans also include some form of travel assistance. Decide which coverages you want, then check to see what’s already covered by your credit card and your existing insurance policies before purchasing a travel insurance plan. 

Evaluate Company Ratings

In the process of comparing companies, you’ll want to consider more than just the price of the policy and the coverage offered. You should also check that the insurer has an A- (Excellent) financial strength grade or better from AM Best , and evaluate customer reviews from third-party companies like TrustPilot, ConsumerAffairs, and the BBB. 

Compare Premiums

Depending on your age and trip cost, some travel insurance companies may offer a lower premium than others. That’s why it’s important to compare quotes. You can collect quotes directly from each insurance company’s website, or you can use an insurance aggregator site that allows you to view quotes from a handful of companies with just one application. 

Review Policy Limits and Exclusions

When comparing premiums, look at the policy details and compare limits and exclusions. For example, some insurance companies won’t reimburse you if your trip is delayed, and some may exclude coverage for preexisting conditions. Additionally, medical coverage may exclude injuries from certain activities, like scuba diving. 

Consider Endorsements

Some insurers offer commonly excluded coverages as endorsements to your travel insurance plan for an additional premium or as an included feature in certain packages. Pay attention to what’s available if you’re looking for an extra layer of protection. For example, while travel insurance plans commonly exclude pandemics and epidemics, most plans from Allianz include an epidemic coverage endorsement that will cover cancellation, interruption, medical care, and more in the event of a COVID-19 diagnosis. 

Buy As Soon As Possible

To get coverage for preexisting conditions, you typically need to buy travel insurance soon after purchasing your trip or making a deposit on the trip. Furthermore, travel insurance typically only provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances, so if you wait until a weather event has been announced to buy coverage, that weather event may not be covered. The sooner you buy travel insurance after purchasing your trip, the fewer exclusions you’ll have to worry about. 

What Is Travel Insurance?

The term “travel insurance” typically refers to a package of coverages that helps protect against a variety of things that can go wrong before and during your trip. The best travel insurance will reimburse you for the total cost of your trip if it gets canceled or interrupted for certain reasons, like an injury or the death of a family member. It also provides temporary major medical coverage and emergency evacuation coverage should you become injured or ill while traveling. Many plans also offer additional benefits or optional endorsements, such as cancel-for-any-reason coverage.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

It’s up to you. You’ll need to weigh the risks of forgoing travel insurance against the cost of a policy. You may have sufficient coverage from a travel credit card or other insurance policies that make travel insurance coverage unnecessary. However, if you’ve purchased an expensive vacation that’s nonrefundable, or if your health insurance plan won’t cover you where you’re traveling, then travel insurance is likely worth it.

How to Get Travel Insurance

If you’re looking to buy travel insurance , a good place to start is with company reviews. Then, get travel insurance quotes to compare costs and coverage. Almost all travel insurance companies allow you to buy coverage instantly online, and it’s best to pay for the coverage as soon as possible after you book your trip.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

While coverages vary from one plan to the next, most travel insurance policies cover trip cancellation and interruption, short-term major medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and lost or damaged baggage. Most also offer additional benefits, such as cancel-for-any-reason coverage , pet medical, and adventure sports coverage.

Travel insurance can be helpful since it covers medical expenses and trip protection for cancellations and delays. Travel insurance also provides emergency medical evacuation. However, not all plans cover preexisting conditions and younger travelers tend to pay less than older travelers. Be sure to read the fine print within the plan to fully understand the coverage.

InsureMyTrip. “ How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? ”

Travelex. “ Compare Travel Insurance Plans .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Zurich Insurance Group Ltd and Its Main Rated Subsidiaries .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Insurance Company and Its Affiliates .”

Allianz Travel. “ Trip Cancellation & Travel Insurance .”

Allianz Travel. " Travel Insurance and COVID-19: The Epidemic Coverage Endorsement Explained ."

Allianz Travel. " OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan ."

AM Best. “ BCS Insurance Company .”

AM Best. “ AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Allianz SE and Its Rated Subsidiaries .”

HTH Travel Insurance. " Benefits Schedule ."

HTH Travel Insurance. " TripProtector Economy Benefits ."

AM Best. “ AM Best Downgrades Credit Ratings of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co & Its P/C Subs; Affirms Credit Ratings of Life Affiliates .”

Insuremytrip. “ Travel Insurance Reviews HTH Worldwide .”

Nationwide. " Single-Trip Essential Plan ."

AM Best. “ United States Fire Insurance .

Seven Corners. " Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic ."

Travel Guard. " Essential Travel Insurance Plan ."

AM Best. “ United States Fire Insurance .”

Washington, D.C. Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking. “ Taking a Trip? Information About Travel Insurance You Should Know before You Hit the Road .”

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The best travel insurance policies and providers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best travel insurance providers

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

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

AIG Travel Guard

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

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

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

Preexisting conditions

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

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

Standout features

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

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

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

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

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

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

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

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

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

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

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

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

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

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

Is travel insurance worth getting?

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

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

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

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

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

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

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

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

What are the different types of travel insurance?

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

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

Should I buy travel health insurance?

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

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

How much does travel insurance cost?

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

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

When and how to get travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

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

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

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Travel Insurance

Average cost of travel insurance in 2024

Heidi Gollub

Megan Horner

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

Updated 2:48 p.m. UTC April 24, 2024

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• Travel insurance costs an average of 5% to 6% of the cost of your trip. 
• Your travel destination and your age impact the cost of travel insurance. 
• Senior travelers need to budget extra for travel insurance as they pay a higher percentage of their trip cost — an average of 18% for 80-year-olds.

There are several factors that influence how much you’ll pay for travel insurance, from your age and travel destination to the cost of your trip and the coverages you choose. Our insurance experts analyzed rates from the best travel insurance companies, and we’ve used that data to break down the average cost of travel insurance for you.   

Compare travel insurance costs personalized for your trip

Travel insured.

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Top-scoring plan

Worldwide Trip Protector

Covers COVID?

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$100,000/$1 million

Atlas Journey Preferred

Seven Corners

RoundTrip Basic

$500,000/$1 million

How much is travel insurance?

The average cost of travel insurance is 5% to 6% of your nonrefundable trip expenses. To insure a $1,000 trip, for instance, costs an average of $61 (6%). 

Average cost of travel insurance by trip cost 

Average cost of travel insurance is based on quotes for a 30-year-old female traveling from California to Mexico for a 14-day trip. Source: Squaremouth.

Traveling on a budget? Check out these cheap travel insurance plans .

Average cost of travel insurance by age

While the cost of your trip is a key factor in how much you’ll pay for travel insurance, your age can also impact your rate. This is particularly true for travelers over 60. The average cost of travel insurance for a 70-year-old increases to 11% of total trip cost, and 80-year-old travelers pay an average of 18% for a senior travel insurance policy. 

Average cost of travel insurance by number of travelers in your group

If you’re traveling with others, it’s typically cheaper to insure everyone in your group with a single travel insurance policy. Some plans even cover kids younger than 17 for free, as long as they’re traveling with their parents on the same itinerary. 

In our analysis of travel insurance rates, we found that a family of four taking a 14-day trip from California to Mexico valued at $5,000 only pays about $29 more than a solo traveler buying travel insurance for the same trip. A couple, both age 40, will pay an average of $17 more than a single traveler of the same age. 

What determines travel insurance costs?

One of the biggest factors to influence the cost of travel insurance is the travel insurance plan you select. The best travel insurance plans bundle several types of insurance, including coverage for trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption, travel medical, emergency medical evacuation and baggage loss and delay. The more comprehensive the plan, the more you’ll pay for travel insurance. 

The coverage limits of your policy will also affect its cost. The limits dictate how much you’ll be reimbursed if you use your insurance. All of the 5-star plans in our best travel insurance rating offer medical reimbursement limits of $1 million. The higher the reimbursement limit, the more expensive your coverage will be. 

Sample rates for different travel insurance plans

Average cost of travel insurance is based on quotes for a 30-year-old female traveling from California to Mexico for a 14-day trip. Different levels of benefits can account for price differences. These rates do not include a “cancel for any reason” upgrade. Source: Squaremouth.

Average travel insurance cost for “cancel for any reason”coverage

Based on our analysis of 16 travel insurance policies, adding CFAR coverage to a travel insurance policy will increase your cost by about 50%. 

If you want to be able to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy — consider buying a travel insurance plan that offers “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

“In 2023, the travel industry has faced a number of challenges including a rise in inclement weather, staffing shortages and strikes,” said Rajeev Shrivastava, CEO of VisitorsCoverage. “Consequently, we’re seeing an increase of canceled trips, disrupted flights and stranded travelers.” 

“To prepare for these uncertainties,” said Shrivastava, “travelers should consider choosing flexible insurance coverage options like ‘cancel for any reason’ and ‘interruption for any reason,’ which protect trip investments in case of cancellations or disruptions.”

“Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage isn’t as readily available as an upgrade, but it typically adds only 3% to 10% to the cost of your travel insurance.

Travel insurance costs for your vacation

What travel insurance covers.

“Travel insurance provides coverage for prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses — up to the limits of the policy — should a trip be canceled or interrupted for a covered reason,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. 

The trip cancellation insurance part of your travel insurance can reimburse up to 100% for lost trip deposits, such as airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, tours and cruises, if you cancel your trip for a reason listed in your policy.

“Examples of acceptable reasons to cancel a trip include illness or injury for the traveler, a close family member or a traveling companion,” said Durazo. “Other reasons may include your travel supplier stops offering services for 24 hours due to a natural disaster, severe weather or a strike, your home or destination becomes uninhabitable, or you or a travel companion are laid off after you purchase your policy.”

Once you start your trip, travel insurance continues to offer financial protection, said Durazo. “Post-departure benefits can help cover expenses like lost bags and travel delays and most importantly, can include emergency medical coverage and emergency medical transportation.” 

If you do become ill or injured while traveling, travel insurance can cover your medical costs including doctors’ fees and hospital costs that may not be covered by your health insurance. “Domestic health care plans are usually not accepted outside the U.S.,” Durazo said. “So it’s especially important to get travel insurance with medical coverage and emergency medical transportation when traveling internationally.” 

Even if you’re not traveling out of the country, travel insurance with medical coverage can be a good idea, Durazo said. “As many Americans now have high deductible health insurance plans, trips to urgent care or the ER can be expensive but could be covered by travel insurance while traveling.” 

Methodology

Using data from Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison website, our insurance experts analyzed rates for 23 travel insurance plans. The average rates were determined by comparing quotes for trips with a variety of costs, traveler ages, traveler groups and travel plan benefits.

Travel insurance costs FAQs

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% and 6% of the cost of the trip. How much you pay for travel insurance will depend on the travel insurance company and plan you select, the total cost and destination of your trip, the age of travelers and the number of travelers you’re insuring. 

You may wonder: Is travel insurance worth it?  

A comprehensive travel insurance plan will include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, medical expense, emergency medical evacuation and baggage delay and loss. 

Read your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is excluded. You can sometimes purchase add ons such as “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. 

Do you need trip insurance? What travel insurance covers

Yes, travel insurance is typically more expensive for older travelers. While the average cost of travel insurance for a 20-year-old traveler is $224, the average cost increases at age 60 to $420 and to $907 for an 80-year-old. 

Find the best coverage: Best senior travel insurance companies

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

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

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

Megan Horner is editorial director at USA TODAY Blueprint. She has over 10 years of experience in online publishing, mostly focused on credit cards and banking. Previously, she was the head of publishing at Finder.com where she led the team to publish personal finance content on credit cards, banking, loans, mortgages and more. Prior to that, she was an editor at Credit Karma. Megan has been featured in CreditCards.com, American Banker, Lifehacker and news broadcasts across the country. She has a bachelor’s degree in English and editing.

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Find The Best Travel Insurance Policy For Your Needs & Avoid Costly Surprises!

Compare 2024's Best Travel Insurance Companies. Get Yourself Peace Of Mind.

Compare and Buy Travel Insurance

Standard single trip policies.

• The most popular and comprehensive travel insurance plan
• Covers cancellations, medical emergencies, delays, and luggage
• Protection from the time you purchase to the date you return

Annual / Multi Trip Policies

• Cost-effective option for travelers taking multiple trips a year
• Includes common medical, delay, and luggage benefits
• May require add-ons from trip cancellation or interruption

Cruise Insurance Policies

• Offers comprehensive trip protection on land and at sea
• Includes high travel medical insurance coverage limits
• Protects against hurricanes, inclement weather, and more

Adventure & Sports Policies

• Essential for travelers partaking in high-risk activities
• Provides protection for lost or delayed sports equipment
• Strong coverage for cancellations and medical emergencies

Compare and Save in Minutes

Whether you’re heading abroad or staying local, we make it easy to find the best travel insurance plan for your next adventure. No bias. No hidden fees. Just the best trip protection quotes from the country’s leading providers.

Tell us some basic information about your next trip. We’ll use these details to help narrow your search and show the plans that best fit your needs.

Easily see how plans from the best travel insurance providers compete on cost and coverage. Use filters and sort results to uncover the right plan for you.

Get peace of mind at the lowest possible price. We partner with leading providers to offer you the best policies at the best value, guaranteed.

Why Trust Squaremouth?

When selecting a travel insurance provider, it's crucial to compare options. Obtain quotes from three to five insurers to ensure the best coverage and value. While it may seem time-consuming, this process can result in significant savings.

That's why we're here – over the past two decades, our industry-leading comparison engine has helped millions of travelers find highly-rated insurance plans and protect their trip expenses.

Our industry-leading comparison platform , enriched by customer reviews, displays unbiased results based on your specific trip details. If you run into any trouble, our multi-award-winning customer service team is just a phone call away.

• Helped more than 3 million travelers
• 20+ years serving the travel community
• Intuitive & user-friendly comparison engine
• More plans and top-rated providers than the competition
• Prices are regulated by law; you won't find a lower price anywhere else
• Multi award-winning customer service team
• 140,000+ customer reviews

Save With Squaremouth

Squaremouth has helped more than 3 million travelers find the best policy for their trip.

Key Travel Insurance Benefits

Most trip insurance policies are comprehensive, including coverage for cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, and lost luggage, among other benefits.

What Coverage is the Most Important?

Squaremouth customer reviews.

More than 99% of customers would recommend Squaremouth to others. Read what a few of them had to say about their recent experience buying travel insurance.

Great Experience!

"The Squaremouth website is fantastic! It was very easy to select coverage and find and compare policies. Will recommend it to others."

Savannah from NC 03/26/2024

Great Coverage and Price

"Getting a travel insurance quote online was easy. We have used Squaremouth before and have been pleased each time. It's peace of mind for our travel needs."

Rhonda from IN 03/20/2024

Easy to Use!

"I always use Squaremouth simply because it is so easy to use and offers plans that are affordable to me."

Emily from AZ 03/08/2024

Very pleased!

"They give great service, and the website is so easy to navigate to find just the right insurance plan. I always appreciate working with them."

Don from UT 03/07/2024

The Squaremouth website is fantastic! It was very easy to select coverage and find and compare policies. Will recommend it to others.

Featured Articles

Our topic experts keep a constant pulse on the travel industry so we can provide the most current information and recommendations based on today's traveler needs.

What Type of Insurance Do I Need?

Plans can range in terms of cost and coverage, so it’s important to identify your specific needs before comparing options. Discover the different types of travel insurance policies you should consider for your upcoming trip.

How to Buy Travel Insurance on Squaremouth

If you’re new to Squaremouth, this quick guide can help you identify your needs, start your first quote, and compare your results. If you need additional help, our customer service team is just a phone call away.

Travel Insurance FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from travelers like you.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for International Travel?

While rare, some countries or organized tours may require proof of travel insurance that lasts for the duration of your trip. Our Destination Center is a good starting point to learn about entry requirements and travel insurance recommendations.

While it is typically not mandatory, travelers should consider buying insurance if they want to protect themselves financially from unforeseen events that may impact their travel plans. Many Americans and U.S. residents purchase travel insurance when planning international or high cost trips. View our list of the top international travel insurance providers .

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive travel insurance is designed to cover common disruptions that may impact a trip. Most policies will provide coverage for trip cancellations , medical emergencies , travel delays , missed connections , accidental death and dismemberment , and lost luggage . Travelers that experience financial loss as a result of a covered disruption may be eligible for reimbursement through their insurance policy.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

In general, a comprehensive policy with Trip Cancellation typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total trip cost. The cost of a policy depends on four primary factors: trip cost, traveler age, trip length, and coverage amounts. A policy without an insured trip cost will be significantly less expensive. We recommend comparing plans from multiple providers to find the best priced plan for your trip.

What Should I Look for When Comparing Travel Insurance?

There’s no one-size-fits-all policy when it comes to travel insurance. When comparing plans, you should consider the following:

• Benefits: Travel insurance benefits outline what situations are covered under each plan. Make sure each plan you’re considering includes coverage for what’s important to you.
• Coverage Limits: Plans will set limits to how much reimbursement you’re eligible for, and can vary significantly. Higher coverage limits can result in less out of pocket expenses in the event of a claim.
• Exclusions: Travel insurance companies will list specific activities, equipment, and scenarios that are not covered by their plans in the event of a claim.
• Premium: Higher priced insurance products do not always equate to better coverage. We recommend choosing the most affordable plan that offers the travel protection you need.
• Provider Reputation: All providers on Squaremouth have been carefully vetted and offer 24-Hour Assistance services. Customers are also encouraged to share honest reviews about their experience before, during, and after their trips.

Does Travel Medical Insurance Cover International Trips?

In many cases, primary health care plans, such as Medicare or a policy you have through your employer, are not accepted overseas. If you’re not covered, you may be responsible for unforeseen medical expenses if you get sick or injured while traveling.

To avoid out-of-pocket expenses if you need medical care in the event of an emergency, many travelers opt for travel medical insurance. These plans can cover the cost of treating unexpected medical conditions incurred during your international trip.

Are Pre-Existing Conditions Covered by Travel Insurance?

Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies among travel insurance policies. While many plans won’t offer coverage for existing injuries or illnesses, some plans may offer Pre-Existing Condition waivers if certain conditions are met, such as purchasing the policy within a specified time frame from booking the trip.

Will My Policy Cover Trip Cancellations?

Yes, many comprehensive travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations under specified circumstances, such as sudden illness, injury, or death of the insured or a family member, natural disasters, or unexpected work obligations. Most policies that include the Trip Cancellation benefit offer 100% reimbursement for all prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

What’s the Difference Between Single-Trip and Annual Travel Insurance?

Single-trip travel insurance covers a specific journey for a set duration, offering protection for that trip only. This is the most popular type of travel insurance among Squaremouth users. In contrast, Annual Travel Insurance provides coverage for multiple trips within a year. Annual plans can be cost-effective for frequent travelers and less of a hassle than purchasing multiple single-trip plans.

What's the Process for Filing a Travel Insurance Claim?

To file a trip insurance claim, follow these steps:

• Contact your insurer: Notify them as soon as possible about the incident.
• Gather documentation: Collect relevant documents, such as police reports, medical records, or receipts for expenses incurred.
• Complete the claim form: Fill out the insurer's claim form with accurate details.
• Submit supporting documents: Attach all required documents to substantiate your claim.
• Keep records: Maintain copies of all submissions and correspondence for your records.
• Follow up: Stay in touch with the insurer for updates on your claim status.
• Be honest and thorough: Provide clear and truthful information to expedite the process.

Remember, the process may vary by insurer, so review your policy or contact your insurance provider for specific instructions. Learn more about what can be covered and how to file a travel insurance claim .

Where Can I Buy Travel Insurance?

Travelers can purchase travel insurance directly from providers, through a comparison site like Squaremouth, or directly through a travel supplier when booking. Credit cards and travel agents are other sources to consider. Travel insurance prices are regulated by law, meaning the price of one specific policy must be the same regardless of where it is sold, whether it’s purchased from Squaremouth or directly from the provider.

June 1, 2020

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Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

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Last-minute cancellations. Travel delays. Rental car accidents. When the unexpected happens, you can rely on Allianz Travel Insurance to help make things right.

Whether you're planning a road trip, camping getaway or vacation rental, a OneTrip plan can help you journey there  — and back  — with confidence.

Get affordable protection for all your trips — family vacations and weekend getaways alike — for a full 365 days.

Enjoy peace of mind on your next road trip. Get robust rental car coverage for a fraction of what you'll typically pay at the rental counter.

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Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Because your trip is too important to leave to chance. For a small fraction of your trip costs, you can count on travel insurance to save the day when things go awry.

• If you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, travel insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs. Without insurance, you could lose the money you paid for your vacation rental, car rental, hotel, flights and more.
• If you experience a covered medical emergency , travel insurance can help ensure you get high-quality care and reimburse you for covered medical costs. Without insurance, you may have to pay out of pocket.
• If your rental car gets damaged, lost or stolen , travel insurance can pay for the loss. Without insurance, you could get hit with a huge bill.
• If you face an unexpected crisis, travel insurance connects you to 24-Hour Hotline Assistance for expert help and advice. Without insurance, you’re on your own.
• If your travel plans are affected by COVID-19,  many of our travel protection plans now include the Epidemic Coverage Endorsement, which adds covered reasons to select benefits for certain losses related to COVID-19 and any future epidemic. Benefits vary by plan and by state of residence, and are not available in all jurisdictions. Learn more in our COVID-19 FAQ .

WHICH PLAN IS RIGHT FOR ME?

OneTrip Travel Insurance Plans

If you're the type who plans one big getaway a year, a OneTrip plan can offer benefits to help you breathe easier -- like trip cancellation, luggage protection, emergency medical benefits, and more. And all plans come with 24-Hour Assistance in case you need expert travel help along the way.

Annual Travel Insurance Plans

Frequent traveler? An AllTrips annual travel insurance plan may be a great fit. You can get the protection you need for all the trips you take in a full year -- domestic or international, leisure or business -- all under one convenient plan.

Rental Car Insurance Plans

If you're hitting the road in a rental car, OneTrip Rental Car Protector can provide primary protection for covered collision, loss, and damage, along with 24- hour emergency assistance. It's an affordable alternative to using your personal insurance, or overpriced options at the rental counter.

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.

We're Built For You

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

What our customers say

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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Average cost of travel insurance

N ext time you’re booking travel, it may be tempting to skip purchasing a travel insurance policy to cut corners and save some money. But saving a little now could actually end up costing you more later — if you lose your baggage, need to cancel your trip, or encounter unexpected medical costs while traveling.

According to Bankrate’s 2022 Travel Woes survey , “79% of travelers who have taken an overnight trip outside their local area this year experienced at least one travel-related issue.” Having travel insurance in place can keep these minor issues from turning into major, trip-ruining disasters.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance policy that protects any money spent on domestic or international travel. Many travel agencies and airlines offer travel insurance as an add-on to your booking, although you can also seek out your own policy on any travel you book yourself.

Types of travel insurance

A few of the different types of travel insurance you may want to consider include:

• Damage to personal property or rental cars
• Trip cancellation
• Lost baggage
• Coverage for medical expenses abroad
• Accidental death or flight accident coverage

The cost of these policies varies based on the type of travel insurance you purchase, as well as the value of your trip and your personal risk factors. The amount of coverage you elect can also affect your rates. Where policies have different tier plans available, you’ll generally pay more for higher levels of coverage.

You may be able to get your next trip covered through your credit card perks. Some credit cards, particularly the best travel cards , offer travel insurance and discounts, with higher-fee cards typically offering higher levels of coverage. If you’re a frequent traveler, it could be in your best interest to read the fine print on your credit card to see if you can take advantage of any of these benefits.

How much is travel insurance?

The amount you’ll pay for travel insurance will depend on a few different factors such as your age (travel insurance prices tend to increase the older you get), the number of travelers you’ll need to insure and the length of your overall trip. Still, experts say you can expect to shell out anywhere from 4 to 11 percent of the total cost of your trip on your travel insurance policy.

Travel insurance policies generally fall into one of three tiers: basic, middle-tier, and comprehensive coverage.

Insurance policy tiers

Average cost of travel insurance by age.

Travel insurance providers evaluate risk in the same way traditional insurers do when it comes to their premiums. The older a traveler is, the more they can expect to pay for coverage, as older travelers are more likely to become ill or injured on a trip. For example, a 2021 analysis conducted by AdvisorSmith found that average prices differed from a low of $92 for a young child to a high of $805 for a centenarian.

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of travel insurance by age.

While higher costs are more common among older travelers, affordable policies can still be found. Shopping around and comparing quotes from different providers is key to finding the right level of coverage at the right price point.

Average cost of travel insurance by trip cost

The total length of your trip can also directly impact the amount you can expect to pay for travel insurance. A two-week trip will likely cost you more than a weekend getaway, and the higher the overall trip cost, the higher the premium will be in most cases.

According to data from AdvisorSmith, average premiums range from $50 for a trip that costs $1,000 to $447 for a $10,000 trip.

Average cost of travel insurance by number of travelers

One factor you should take into consideration when planning your trip and selecting a travel insurance policy is the number of travelers in your group. The more people you’ll be traveling with, the higher your premium will likely be, because there’s a greater risk of your insurer having to cover unexpected costs. This is especially true for older groups who also have an increased likelihood of incurring medical expenses during a trip.

Per AdvisorSmith, a single adult traveling alone can expect to pay an average of $111, while a party traveling with two adults and two children will pay closer to an average of $167.

2023 travel insurance outlook

With the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions largely behind us, travel has surged since the second half of 2022. And with that surge has come higher prices for nearly all kinds of travel reservations, on top of the high inflation being experienced in the rest of the economy.

While inflation is beginning to cool , consumers are likely to continue feeling its sting for the foreseeable future. In fact, Bankrate’s 2023 survey on summer travel found that nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of those who say they can’t afford a vacation this year cite inflation or rising prices as a primary concern.

These higher travel costs are yet another reason the purchase of travel insurance remains popular, as travelers increasingly see the value of insuring their larger investments into more expensive trips.

• Travel insurance plans

Tin Leg Travel Insurance Cost

Compare tin leg travel insurance.

• Why You Should Trust Us

Tin Leg Travel Insurance: An In-Depth Review

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.

Before finalizing your travel plans, look into various insurance policies to safeguard yourself against potential risks. Travel insurance is an invaluable resource that can protect you from many unforeseen issues, but not all companies provide the same level of coverage. And some companies' policies may cost more than others.

That's where Tin Leg Travel Insurance comes in. Created by travel agency Squaremouth, Tin Leg Travel Insurance offers eight different plans with varying coverage levels and benefits, with the option to add Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage to select plans. Keep reading to see if Tin Leg Travel Insurance is the right travel insurance for you.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Overview of Tin Leg Travel Insurance

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a travel insurance provider founded in 2014 by travel insurance aggregator SquareMouth. With eight different plans, Tin Leg Travel Insurance is one of the providers listed in our guide on the best travel insurance companies , specifically for travelers with pre-existing conditions. We chose Tin Leg Travel Insurance because seven of its eight plans offer pre-existing condition waivers, with a 15-day purchase window and no extra cost.

That said, Tin Leg Travel Insurance has other coverages that are noteworthy. Its coverage limits for emergency evacuation go up to $1 million, which is great particularly if you have nautical travel plans as water-to-land rescues can be costly.

Additionally, sports equipment loss is included with seven of Tin Leg Travel Insurance's eight plans. However, you will need to call for more information on adventure sports, as Tin Leg Travel Insurance doesn't guarantee coverage.

Tin Leg's Travel Insurance Plans

Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans: Economy, Basic, Standard, Luxury, Adventure, Silver, Platinum, and Gold. Each plan offers varying levels of protection that correspond to the premium costs.

Here's a look at what you'll get with each plan. We've split the eight plans into two tables to make things easier to follow.

Here's how the Adventure, Silver, Platinu, and Gold plans compare:

Additional Coverage Options

Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance offers additional coverage options, but they're only available on specific plans.

You can add rental car damage coverage to the Luxury plan for an additional fee. And both the Gold and Silver plans allow you to add on CFAR (cancel for any reason) coverage . With CFAR coverage travel insurance, you can cancel for any reason not listed in the base policy and be reimbursed — in the case of Tin Leg Travel Insurance, for 75% of your trip costs.

How to Purchase and Manage Your Tin Leg Policy

Travel insurance coverage varies greatly, and  the amount you pay reflects the range of protection . However, since travel insurance protects your financial investment, it's typically worth spending a few extra dollars for higher coverage maximums, especially for medical insurance and evacuation expenses.

Getting a quote from Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance is an easy process. You can do so from their website or an insurance aggregator like SquareMouth. You should be prepared to provide the following information:

• Number of travelers
• Age of traveler(s)
• Duration of trip
• Whether you want trip cancellation coverage
• Date of booking
• If you have any trip payments left to make
• One country you're traveling to
• Country of residence/citizenship

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

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

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

Premiums for Tin Leg Travel Insurance plans are between 1.8% and 3.9% of the trip's cost, well below the average cost of travel insurance . It's also relatively cheap compared to many of its competitors

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

Once again, premiums for Tin Leg Travel Insurance plans are between 3.4% and 5.2%, below the average cost for travel insurance.

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

Premiums for Tin Leg Travel Insurance plans are between 6.9% and 9.4%, which is roughly in line with the average cost for travel insurance. This is to be expected, as travel insurance is often more expensive for older travelers.

How to File a Claim with Tin Leg Travel Insurance

One exceptionally nice aspect of Tin Leg Travel Insurance is that you can report a claim online or over the phone. You can contact Tin Leg Travel Insurance's claims department at 844-240-1233 or by email at [email protected] . It's available on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. ET.

You'll be asked to fill out a claims form that asks about your trip details and the issue you faced. Tin Leg Travel Insurance will then ask you to file supporting documents related to your claim. If you're filing a claim because you canceled a flight due to an illness, they'll likely require medical documentation that supports this claim. 

Tin Leg Customer Service and Support Experience

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is well reviewed, receiving an average of 4.6 stars out of five on SquareMouth across nearly 3,800 reviews. Reviews on its Better Business Bureau are consistent with its SquareMouth score, also averaging 4.6 stars across over 110 reviews, admittedly a limited sample size. Additionally, Tin Leg Travel Insurance is not certified with the BBB.

While most customers reported a smooth and speedy claims service, some noted that communication from Tin Leg Travel Insurance during the process can be spotty. Additionally, customers complained about their claims being denied due to requirements they were unaware of when purchasing coverage. One customer wrote about how they had to cancel a trip because of work, but hadn't been working at their company long enough to qualify for trip cancellation coverage.

See how Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance stacks up against the competition. 

Tin Leg Travel Insurance vs. AIG Travel Guard

To compare Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance to Travel Guard , we'll consider the coverage limits from their highest-rated, Gold and Travel Guard Deluxe plans, respectively.

With AIG Travel Guard's Deluxe plan, you'll get:

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $150,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $225,000
• Emergency medical coverage of $100,000
• Coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage up to $2,500
• Travel delay coverage of up to $1,000

Comparing those coverages with Tin Leg Travel Insurance's Gold plan, you'll see that AIG's coverages are better than Tin Leg Travel Insurance's in all areas except one – emergency medical. While AIG offers emergency medical coverage of $100,000, Tin Leg Travel Insurance's coverage limit is $500,000 (in primary coverage).

If the medical coverage piece is what's most important to you, Tin Leg Travel Insurance would be the right choice in this scenario. That said, having $100,000 in emergency medical coverage is nothing to scoff at, so it may come down to comparing premium costs.

Remember that the premium costs will depend on the traveler's age, trip destination, and trip cost. So you'll need to compare these two insurers using your trip-specific information to get a solid idea of the costs associated with each plan.

Read our AIG Travel Guard insurance review here.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

Both Allianz Travel Insurance and Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance offer a variety of travel insurance plans designed for different types of travelers with varying types and degrees of coverage.

In this comparison, we'll look at Allianz Travel Insurance's most popular single-trip plan, the OneTrip Prime plan, compared to Tin Leg Travel Insurance's Basic plan.

With Allianz Travel Insurance's most popular single-trip OneTrip Prime plan, you'll get:

• Up to $100,000 in trip cancellation coverage
• Up to $150,000 in trip interruption coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage
• Up to $800 in travel delay coverage

In looking at Tin Leg Travel Insurance's basic plan, you'll find that these two policies offer the same $50,000 coverage limit for emergency medical. Still, Allianz Travel Insurance's plan exceeds Tin Leg Travel Insurance's in the other coverage limits. That said, you'll have to quote both of these policies using your personal trip information to make an informed decision, especially if cost is the most important factor to you.

Read our  Allianz travel insurance review here.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

Do you have a travel credit card? If so, consider the type of insurance coverage it may (or may not) offer. Some basic coverages, like primary rental car insurance, are provided through your credit card's travel protection . And if you don't need medical coverage or don't have a lot of non-refundable trip expenses, the coverage offered by your credit card could suffice.

That said, don't forget that credit card coverage is sometimes considered secondary coverage. That means you'll have to file a claim with any other applicable insurer before filing a claim with your credit card company.

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

Tin Leg Travel Insurance FAQs

All policies except Economy cover pre-existing medical conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of trip deposit.

You have 14 days after you purchase your policy to refund your Tin Leg Travel Insurance policy, as long as you haven't left for your trip. 

All Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance policies include 24/7 emergency assistance services.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance claims can be submitted online or over the phone at 844-240-1233 during business hours. You'll need to provide details about your trip and the problem that arose during your trip. The claims process is quick, according to customer reviews, but be sure to review your policy for guideline related to claims. 

Yes, all tiers of Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance offer cancellation coverage if you or a non-traveling loved one contracts COVID-19, though you will need to provide a positive test to receive reimbursement. 

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Tin Leg

To review Tin Leg Travel Insurance travel insurance, we looked at several different factors. These included premium costs, coverage categories, and claim limits. In addition, we compared the policies and premiums available through Tin Leg Travel Insurance to those from the best travel insurance providers to see how they stack up — and also considered any additional add-on coverages available and the ease of getting a quote and filing a claim.

In the end, the best policy for you will be the one that provides the coverage you need and limits you're comfortable with while also staying within budget.

Read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

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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RV insurance for the open road

Members save 5% on coverage for most RVs through our alliance with Progressive.‍ ‍ See note 1

What's RV insurance?

RV insurance is a lot like car insurance. Most states require a minimum amount of liability protection for motorhomes. For campers and travel trailers that you're pulling behind a car, liability extends from the auto policy of the towing vehicle.

If you're financing the RV, some lenders may require you to have comprehensive and collision coverage.

Whether your RV is your primary residence or just for recreational use, you can customize a policy to fit your needs.

Insurance for travel trailers

If you get comprehensive or collision coverage, you also get vacation liability coverage with travel trailer insurance. This helps protect you if your property’s damaged or if someone gets hurt in or around your trailer.

If your trailer is less than one year old, consider adding total loss protection. You can also add personal effects coverage to help protect the stuff you keep inside your travel trailer.

Ways to cover your motorhome

RV insurance may cover damages and injuries if you cause an accident. You may also be able to add coverage to pay medical, hotel, transportation and windshield repair costs.

Plus, get up to $99,000 in coverage for personal property in your motorhome. We cover luxurious Class A models, Class B campervans and Class C mini-motorhomes.

Insuring a pop-up camper

On top of comprehensive, collision and vacation liability coverage, you can also insure personal property inside your camper.

Add total loss replacement to campers less than one year old to replace your pop-up with the same model or later if it’s totaled.

Coverage for slide-on campers

We offer standard coverage options like comprehensive, collision and vacation liability. You can also get total loss replacement coverage and personal property insurance.

Because you load these types of RVs onto the bed of a truck, we also provide roadside assistance for your slide-on camper and the vehicle towing it.

Insurance for fifth-wheel trailers

You can get comprehensive, collision, roadside assistance and vacation liability coverage.

If your fifth wheel is less than six-years old, consider adding Roof Protection Plus®. This helps repair or replace your roof if it malfunctions from wear and tear, or it damages other parts of your fifth-wheel trailer.

Why get a policy through the USAA Insurance Agency?

Our agency has long-standing relationships with many insurance providers. We monitor those alliances to make sure they meet our standards of customer service and financial stability.

We've worked closely with Progressive for more than 30 years. You can get help from specially trained representatives who'll serve you at the level you expect by calling 800-809-1925 .

How much is RV insurance?

You could pay less than $125 a year to insure a pop-up camper. Or choose a higher yearly payment to cover more expensive motorhomes.‍ ‍ See note 2

How to save on your premium

USAA members get a 5% discount on coverage for most RVs.‍ ‍ See note 1 Here are some other ways to lower your cost.‍ ‍ See note 3

Responsible Driver Discount

If none of the drivers on your policy have accidents or tickets for three years, you could save on your policy.

Paid In Full Discount

In some states, you can get a discount when you pay your 12-month premium all at once.

EFT Discount

Save when you set up automatic payments from your bank account, also known as electronic funds transfers, or EFT.

RV insurance FAQ

Comprehensive coverage can help pay for water damage repairs resulting from weather-related incidents.

Recreational coverage can help protect your RV inside and out while on the road or at a campsite. You may want to consider it if you use your RV part time.

Full-timer's offers broader coverage to help protect those who live in their RV most of the year. It includes personal liability, medical payments and storage shed coverage. It also has loss assessment coverage, which can cover RV association fees to help pay for damages to shared areas.

Both options let you add vacation liability protection. This helps cover bodily injury and property damage costs while you're on vacation in your RV.

It may provide liability coverage for travel trailers and campers, as long as your vehicle is towing them.

Your auto insurance usually won't pay to repair or replace your RV.

It depends. If you're renting an RV, your cost and coverage will depend on the rental location and the type of RV.

It usually won't cover:

• RVs with more than four wheels.
• Drivers not listed on your policy.
• Rentals longer than 30 days.
• The full value of the RV.
• Certain damage to the RV while it's parked.

Explore new places with RV insurance.

Have more questions.

Use our alliance with Progressive to help you get the coverage that fits your needs.

Call Progressive.

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We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Best Annual Travel Insurance in 2024

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

If you’re a frequent traveler, annual travel insurance may be something you’ve been considering. Unlike single-trip insurance, annual travel insurance plans can cover you for an entire year, no matter how often you’re on the road.

Let’s look at the best yearly travel insurance companies, why we choose them and the coverage you can expect.

Factors we considered when picking travel insurance companies

We used the following criteria when choosing which companies we thought were best:

Cost . Annual plans can be expensive — depending on the type of coverage you choose — so we wanted ensure that they stayed affordable. 

Types of coverage . Travel insurance for annual travelers can be limited in its coverage. We picked the ones with the broadest range of coverage for possible travel disruptions.

Coverage amounts . Annual trip insurance isn’t worth much if your limits are too low. Instead, we wanted plans with reasonable coverage amounts. 

Customizability . If your travels take you to different places, you’ll want the ability to customize your plan. The best annual travel insurance plans can provide this. 

» Learn more: What does travel insurance cover?

An overview of the best annual travel insurance

We gathered quotes from various travel insurance companies to determine the best annual travel insurance policies. In these examples, we used a year-long trip by a 22-year-old from Alabama. We indicated the main countries of travel as France and Malaysia, and when asked, put the total trip costs at $6,000.

The average cost for an annual travel insurance plan came out to $220. The plans ranged from $138-$386.

Let’s take a closer look at our top recommendations for annual travel insurance.

1. Allianz Travel

What makes Allianz travel insurance great:

Lower than average cost.

Provides health care and travel insurance benefits.

Includes rental car insurance up to $45,000. 

Here’s a snippet from our Allianz Travel insurance review :

“AllTrips Basic (annual plan) is suitable for those who would like emergency medical coverage while abroad but don't need trip cancellation and interruption benefits. The AllTrips Prime, Executive and Premier plans provide an entire year of comprehensive travel insurance benefits.

The Executive and Premier plans offer various levels of trip cancellation and interruption benefits. The Executive plan is specifically designed for business travelers since it offers protection for business equipment.”

2. Seven Corners

What makes Seven Corners great:

Offers up to $20,000 for acute coverage of pre-existing conditions. 

Includes up to $1 million for emergency medical evacuation. 

Optional add-on for adventure sport activities.

$0 deductible available. 

Here’s a snippet from our Seven Corners review :

“Seven Corners offers one annual policy called Travel Medical Annual Multi-Trip. The policy can be customized depending on how long you plan to be away from home for any one trip. You can travel as much as you like during the 364 days, so long as any one trip doesn’t exceed the option selected — 30, 45 or 60 days.”

What makes IMG great:

Good customizability with medical evacuations and sports coverage. 

Low $250 deductible.

Includes coverage for semi-private hospital rooms. 

Here’s a snippet from our IMG review:

“Some policies provide emergency medical evacuation coverage, while others skip this benefit entirely. This benefit may be more important to you if you travel to a remote location or engage in physical activity such as trekking.

More comprehensive plans may include other benefits such as assistance with acquiring a new passport, reimbursing reward mile redeposit fees or coverage for pre-existing conditions. If these are something you’re interested in, be sure to check that your policy includes these options.”

4. Trawick International

What makes Trawick International great:

100% coverage for trip cancellation and trip interruption. 

Emergency medical evacuation included. 

Trip delay reimbursement coverage. 

Here’s a snippet from our Trawick International review :

“Trawick International is a comprehensive travel insurance provider that offers trip delay and cancellation insurance, baggage delay coverage, medical coverage and medical evacuation, rental car damage protection, and even COVID-19 coverage among its various policies.

Trawick covers trips for worldwide destinations, including for foreign nationals coming to the U.S.”

What does travel insurance cover?

You’ll find a wide variety of coverage types offered by travel insurance policies. This is true whether you're purchasing a single-trip or annual travel insurance plan. Here are some common types you can expect to find:

Accidental death insurance .

Baggage delay and lost luggage insurance .

Cancel for Any Reason insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance .

Medical insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

How to choose the best annual travel insurance policy

While we’ve highlighted some of the best annual travel insurance companies, the truth is that the best plan for you isn’t going to be the best plan for someone else. If you’re interested in buying annual travel insurance, you’ll want to collect a variety of quotes to see which policy best fits your needs.

This may mean opting for a plan that covers pre-existing conditions or one that specifically includes high-risk activities. Or, if you’re in a country where health care is notoriously expensive, you may want to choose a policy with higher maximums.

Many credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance .

Whatever the case, do your research first and review all the plan details before making your purchase.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

If you want to buy annual travel insurance

Annual travel insurance can be a great option if you’re often out of town. With such a wide range of policies available, selecting a plan that fits your needs is easy. We’ve done some of the work for you by choosing the best annual travel insurance companies, all of which made the top of the list for their cost, customizability, types of coverage and plan maximums.

Like any travel insurance policy, the cost of your plan is going to vary. Factors that may affect the cost of your annual travel insurance include your age, where you’re going, how long you’ll be traveling, your policy maximums and whether preexisting conditions are included.

Although not all travel insurance providers offer annual travel insurance, many of them do. We’ve gathered together the five best, including Allianz Travel, World Nomads, Seven Corners, IMG and Trawick International.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel Insurance

The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Vietnam: Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Apr 26, 2024, 11:14am

Table of Contents

Do australians need travel insurance for vietnam, what does travel insurance for vietnam cover, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination for Australians, with the country even hoping to encourage more Aussies to visit by potentially waiving visa requirements in due time.

The Southeast Asian country is set to be high on the list for Aussies going overseas in 2024. The number of Australian tourists in Vietnam now exceeds pre-pandemic levels: more than 317,000 Australians visited Vietnam in 2019 , while there were 390,000 Aussie visitors in 2023.

Plus, as more and more flights become available, such as low-cost carrier Vietjet Air launching a direct service between Hanoi and Melbourne earlier this year, getting to Vietnam is becoming easier for Australians.

If the direct flights, fascinating history, vast scenery and delicious food aren’t enough to convince Australian travellers, the cost may be. Vietnam is considered one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world for Australian tourists due to our strong conversion rate against the Vietnamese Dong and the nation’s low cost of living in comparison to our own.

And while cheap thrills may be what you’re after on your vacation, it’s important not to skimp on the necessities that may cost that little bit extra—such as travel insurance. This guide outlines what you need to know regarding travel insurance in Vietnam.

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Investing in travel insurance is a good idea for any overseas trip. Travel insurance policies can help protect you from having to dive deep into your pockets, with many offering unlimited medical treatment while abroad and cancellation cover for your trip should the unexpected occur.

Travel insurance is not just handy for medical purposes or travel changes, either. Your personal items can be covered, should any baggage go missing or an important item be stolen—which, unfortunately, often occurs in Vietnam.

Smarttraveller warns Australians to be alert at all times in Vietnam, considering petty theft–including bag slashing–is common in tourist areas and crowded places, especially during holiday times. Snatch-and-grab theft by thieves on motorcycles is also common, the website states.

Like most international travel insurance policies, you will be able to find basic coverage for your trip to Vietnam, or choose to opt for a more comprehensive, albeit more expensive, policy.

While a basic policy will often cover medical expenses and lost luggage,a comprehensive policy includes a lot more. Most basic policies also likely won’t offer compensation for travel delays, stolen cash, accidental death and more.

Additionally, if you are going on a trip to multiple countries within the year, it may be worth opting for an ‘annual multi trip’ insurance instead—making sure that there are no exclusions to the regions you are wishing to visit.

Visa Requirements For Australians Travelling to Vietnam

You’ll still be allowed to travel to Vietnam if you don’t invest in travel insurance, but you do so at your own risk—and, as stated, it is highly advised to have a travel insurance policy for any overseas trip.

However, what you cannot do is enter Vietnam as an Australian tourist without a tourist visa. While Vietnam will grant Australian citizens visas on arrival, applying for one online is much easier.

A tourist visa costs under $100 AUD; however the exact price depends on your length of stay.

The Vietnamese government may consider waiving visas for Australian citizens, especially since many other SEA countries have done so such as Indonesia and Thailand .

However, at the time of writing, Forbes Advisor Australia has confirmed that Australian citizens must still obtain a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes.

The exact inclusions of your travel insurance will be dependent on your personal policy and the provider.

However, generally speaking, you can expect a travel insurance policy for Vietnam to offer some level of cover for:

• Medical expenses;
• Lost, damaged or stolen luggage;
• Travel cancellations or delays ;
• Personal liability;
• Credit card fraud;
• Covid-19 expenses;

If you are partaking in certain sports and activities, you will need to make sure that you choose a policy that covers them. You’ll also need to make sure that your policy covers any pre-existing medical conditions as well.

Plus, if you are travelling with valuables, you may wish to opt for a policy that lets you increase the protection cover on your items.

Ultimately, you need to consider what your trip consists of, what you will be taking with you, and your physical health to establish what policies would be appropriate for you.

From there, you can compare quotes of different policies and providers to ensure you have the optimal—yet affordable—cover for your trip to Vietnam.

Does Travel Insurance Cover The Ha-Giang Loop?

Considered one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the world, the Ha-Giang Loop is a popular tourist activity in Vietnam for adventurous travellers. If the Ha-Giang Loop is one of your goals, you’ll need to make sure you have travel insurance that covers motorcycling.

Occasionally a policy may include this as one of their included ‘sports and activities’, but it is more often the case that you will need to purchase an additional ‘adventure pack’ that is either specific to, or includes, motorsports.

Even so, when purchasing an additional pack to cover motorbikes, you need to be cautious of the conditions. For example, some policies will only cover motorcycle riding if the bike you are riding has an engine under a certain size.

Often, coverage will cease and claims won’t be accepted if you haven’t been wearing the correct safety equipment such as boots and a helmet, or have been under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

What Does Travel Insurance Exclude?

Your travel insurance policy may exclude some activities that you wish to partake in, unless you can opt-in to purchase an additional adventure pack as explained above in regards to motorbike riding.

Just like with the inclusions of a policy, the exclusions depend on what type of policy you choose, and what provider you go with.

Commonly, however, you won’t be covered for instances where you:

• Break the law;
• Are under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• Partake in an excluded activity;
• Receive medical treatment for a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed;
• Travel to a ‘Do Not Travel’ destination as outlined by Smarttraveller.

As always, it is essential to read the product disclosure statement (PDS) of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you will and won’t be covered for while overseas.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes, as of April 2024, Australian tourists still need a visa to travel to Vietnam. This visa can be obtained on arrival, or purchased online prior to travel. The visa takes approximately three days to process online, and the cost depends on how long you intend to stay in the country.

Does international travel insurance cover Covid-19?

Many comprehensive travel insurance policies now cover Covid-19, including medical conditions related to Covid-19 or trip cancellations due to a Covid-19 diagnosis. However, it is not guaranteed that all policies will. It’s important to check your policy’s PDS carefully to understand what it will and will not cover in regards to Covid-19 for both you and your travelling companions.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

How much does travel insurance cost for Vietnam?

The cost of your travel insurance for a trip to Vietnam will depend on your age, your health, the activities you wish to partake in, and the length of your stay.

For example, for a 34 year old with no pre-existing medical conditions travelling to Vietnam for two weeks, a policy from some of our top choices for comprehensive travel insurance would cost around $130 (based on quotes from Cover-More , 1Cover , and Fast Cover ).

The prices of these quotes would change depending on a chosen excess, cancellation cover, and any additional coverage options you may choose to purchase such as adventure packs or cruise cover.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

Pressure on Murphy, NJSEA to share details on FIFA World Cup costs, transportation grows

4-minute read.

As FIFA walks back the requirement for free public transportation for the World Cup, calls are growing for Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration to share details about the agreements and investments New Jersey agreed to in order to host World Cup soccer matches in 2026.

Among the outstanding questions is what Garden State taxpayers are projected to pay to host eight matches, including the final.

State Sen. Michael Testa, a Republican on the state Senate budget committee, said it “never hurt to be more transparent.”

Sen. Paul Sarlo, a Democrat who chairs the budget committee and represents the Meadowlands region, echoed Testa and said these issues will be among the topics discussed during budget hearings with the state Treasury Department in May.

Although the tournament is still more than two years away, New Jersey and New York City began the bidding process with FIFA in 2017. The New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority partnered with city officials to sign a contract to pursue the bid with FIFA in 2018. An addendum was signed in 2022, but the particulars of those documents were only recently made public.

Free public transportation to World Cup matches?

The NJSEA and New York City both signed on the dotted line to require free public transportation to matches and fan events in that 2018 contract, a provision that came as a shock when it was publicly disclosed last week given a recent budget decision that will increase NJ Transit fares 21% before the World Cup final.

FIFA, the multibillion-dollar international soccer organization that oversees the tournament, appears to be walking back the free public transport requirement, officials said.

"FIFA can confirm that the hosting requirements across all host cities for the FIFA World Cup 26 have been updated as follows: All Match Ticket holders and accredited individuals shall be able to access transport (public or additionally planned transport) at cost on matchdays to allow travel to Stadiums on match days. This change has been communicated to all host cities," a spokesperson for the organization said in an emailed statement Thursday.

Statements from the host committee, Murphy spokesperson Natalie Hamilton and NJSEA spokesperson Brian Aberback were identical, and they said, "Since the original contract was drafted in 2017, FIFA has advised the host committee that providing free public transit is no longer a requirement of the host cities" and that there are "no plans to provide free public transportation."

Beyond the emailed statement from FIFA, nothing has been produced in writing to show if there is a change to the language in the legally binding agreements.

Alex Ambrose of New Jersey Policy Perspective noted the provision shows the state and FIFA recognize that “one of the best ways to get people out of cars and onto safer, cleaner modes of transportation like transit is to get more affordable and more accessible.”

“We do need as many people as possible using transit, but we need that 100% of the time, not just for big events like this,” Ambrose said.

Earlier: Free transit? No tax collection? We got NJ contract to host World Cup. Here's what it says

Testa hasn’t looked at the contract yet, but the idea of free public transportation was something that concerned him.

“Public transportation is so severely lacking in South Jersey. I have a real problem with public transportation being free for a sporting event when we should be focusing on … utilizing public transportation to move people in more rural counties,” he said.

He noted NJ Transit is “operating at about a billion-dollar deficit ” and thinks the focus should be expanding its operations into South Jersey where transportation is needed to “move bodies to where the jobs are.”

Questions remain on state's agreements with NYC, FIFA

Murphy has been a staunch advocate for hosting the global spectacle in East Rutherford. The eight matches set to take place at MetLife Stadium will span a weekslong period in June and July of 2026, after he leaves office.

June 2026 will be the end of Murphy's final budget, and July 2026 will mark the start of his successor’s first. Ambrose pointed out the change in leadership is among the reasons transparency is so important.

“We keep hearing about all these huge economic benefits, that this will be great for New Jersey, but if that's true, then it shouldn't hurt the state at all to be more transparent about these costs,” she said.

Ambrose also noted FIFA and the administration are touting the job creation the tournament will bring but the “reality is that those jobs are also short-term jobs.” And while the state is dedicating time, resources and money to the improvements necessary for FIFA, she said, “we still don't know if we, as New Jersey residents, are going to see any of those benefits."

The Murphy administration has said there are currently no tax breaks for the international organization , but ultimately the decision to provide such relief would be in the hands of the Legislature anyway.

Testa expressed concerns about the economic boon that the tournament is supposed to bring.

“I've looked into how cities that host the Olympics have turned out and fared after they hosted the Olympics, and it seems to me that it's not the economic boom that it's supposed to be for those municipalities,” he said. Testa did say other cities have had to build whole stadiums to support hosting bids, which is not the case here.

Ambrose said FIFA and other big corporations stand to benefit from this event as opposed to “New Jersey residents, most of whom won't even be able to afford a ticket to the game,” and that if the state is going to invest more in public safety, transportation and infrastructure, “we should be able to make those improvements 100% of the time, not just because we have one big event that's coming.”

There is still no projected or estimated cost for the tournament, either. The host committee, Hamilton and Aberback all said the "vast majority of costs associated with the FIFA World Cup will be paid for through private and corporate sources through fundraising managed by the host committee" and the state "will pay for specific public services during the FIFA World Cup." Examples of what could be funded by public dollars, according to the host committee, Hamilton and Aberback, include security, waste management, city beautification and stadium renovations.

The state will also be on the hook for the work done by NJ Transit to improve accessibility via public transportation to the stadium. The design stage alone for those projects is projected to cost more than $35 million. And while New Jersey is sharing hosting duties with New York City for the matches to be played at MetLife, there is still no contract with the city to split the costs — though New Jersey officials have said such an agreement is a work in progress.

Healthcare in Moscow

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.

Healthcare in Moscow is organised by the Moscow Health Department. While public healthcare facilities are available, most expats seek out private healthcare at international medical centres. Expats are advised to take out private medical insurance if it is not provided to them by their company.

Subsidised healthcare is provided to everyone living in the country, paid for by the state and the mandatory health insurance system. That said, professionals in the state system are likely to speak little to no English. 

There are several private medical centres in Moscow where English is spoken and where the healthcare is on par with expat standards. These clinics are generally very expensive, so it is highly recommended that expats take out private medical insurance to cover medical costs in Moscow. Most insurance coverage plans will also include evacuation cover for emergencies or life-threatening situations. 

Recommended hospitals in Moscow

Alliance medicale.

www.alliancemedicale.ru Address: Kutuzovsky Ave, 1/7

Intermed Center American Clinic

www.en.intac.ru Address:  4 Monetchikovsky Lane, 1/6, Building 3

International Clinic MEDSI

www.medsi.ru Address:  26 Prospekt Mira, Building 6

European Medical Center

www.emcmos.ru Address:   5 Spiridon'yevskiy Pereulok, Building 1

Further reading

►For more on the Russian healthcare system see our Healthcare in Russia page.

Expat Interviews " The standard is high, but health insurance is essential − both international and local cover tend to be adequate and similar for routine things." Read more about Stephen, a British expat, and his  experience living in Moscow . 

Are you an expat living in Moscow?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Moscow. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Global Health Insurance. Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider. Get a quote from Cigna Global - 20% off

Aetna Aetna International, offering comprehensive global medical coverage, has a network of 1.3 million medical providers worldwide. You will have the flexibility to choose from six areas of coverage, including worldwide, multiple levels of benefits to choose from, plus various optional benefits to meet your needs. Get your free no-obligation quotes now!

Moving Internationally?

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices. Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget. Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Moscow Visit Moscow on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Moscow Costs

• Is Moscow Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Moscow cost?
• Russia Costs
• Saint Petersburg
• Nizhny Novgorod
• Vladivostok
• How much does it cost to travel to Moscow? (Average Daily Cost)
• Moscow trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Moscow expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Moscow?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Moscow?

You should plan to spend around $62 (₽5,802) per day on your vacation in Moscow. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $14 (₽1,315) on meals
• $6.06 (₽566) on local transportation
• $79 (₽7,330) on hotels

A one week trip to Moscow for two people costs, on average, $870 (₽81,233) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 62 ₽ 5,802
• One Week Per person $ 435 ₽ 40,617
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 870 ₽ 81,233
• One Month Per person $ 1,865 ₽ 174,071
• One Week For a couple $ 870 ₽ 81,233
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 1,741 ₽ 162,467
• One Month For a couple $ 3,730 ₽ 348,143

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Moscow cost?

A one week trip to Moscow usually costs around $435 (₽40,617) for one person and $870 (₽81,233) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Moscow on average costs around $870 (₽81,233) for one person and $1,741 (₽162,467) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Moscow will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Moscow on average costs around $1,865 (₽174,071) for one person and $3,730 (₽348,143) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Moscow has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Moscow is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Russia, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It is in the top 10% of cities in the country for its overall travel expenses. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Moscow is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Novi Sad, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Avignon.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Moscow Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Moscow?

The average Moscow trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Moscow travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Moscow

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Moscow is $39 (₽3,665). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Moscow is $79 (₽7,330). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 39 ₽ 3,665
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 79 ₽ 7,330

Hotel Prices in Moscow

Looking for a hotel in Moscow? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Transportation Budget in Moscow

The cost of a taxi ride in Moscow is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $6.06 (₽566) per person, per day, on local transportation in Moscow.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 6.06 ₽ 566

Recommended Services

• Private Transfer from Tangkerang Labuai to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) Viator $ 40
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Kedungsari Viator $ 40

Flights to Moscow

Rental cars in moscow, what did other people spend on transportation in moscow.

Typical prices for Transportation in Moscow are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Moscow, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Two Metro Passes ₽ 135

Food Budget in Moscow

While meal prices in Moscow can vary, the average cost of food in Moscow is $14 (₽1,315) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Moscow should cost around $5.64 (₽526) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Moscow is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 14 ₽ 1,315

What did other people spend on Food in Moscow?

Typical prices for Food in Moscow are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Moscow, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Lunch for Two ₽ 550
• Lunch in the Center Market ₽ 300
• Breakfast for 2 ₽ 1,000

Entertainment Budget in Moscow

Entertainment and activities in Moscow typically cost an average of $16 (₽1,471) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 16 ₽ 1,471

Recommended Activities

• Custom Private Tour in Palembang with English Speaking Driver Viator $ 85

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Moscow?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Moscow are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Moscow, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Theater Tickets ₽ 1,150
• Kremlin Entry (2) ₽ 1,000

Tips and Handouts Budget in Moscow

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Moscow is $0.24 (₽23) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Moscow is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 0.24 ₽ 23

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Moscow

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Moscow is $1.23 (₽115), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 1.23 ₽ 115

Alcohol Budget in Moscow

The average person spends about $7.79 (₽727) on alcoholic beverages in Moscow per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 7.79 ₽ 727

Water Budget in Moscow

On average, people spend $0.69 (₽64) on bottled water in Moscow per day. The public water in Moscow is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.69 ₽ 64

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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