I learned about travel insurance the hard way - food poisoning in Thailand led to a $4,200 hospital bill. Thankfully, I had insurance. After comparing 12 providers for this guide, here's what you need to know to choose the right coverage.
Do You Really Need Travel Insurance?
Short answer: Yes, especially for international trips. Medical emergencies abroad can cost tens of thousands. Trip cancellations happen. Luggage gets lost. Insurance is the safety net you hope to never use but are grateful to have.
What Travel Insurance Covers
- Medical emergencies: Hospital visits, ambulances, emergency dental
- Medical evacuation: Transport to adequate medical facility (can cost $100,000+)
- Trip cancellation: Refund if you can't go due to covered reasons
- Trip interruption: Costs if you need to return home early
- Baggage loss/delay: Reimbursement for lost or delayed luggage
- Travel delays: Accommodation and meals if significantly delayed
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: World Nomads
Price: $80-150 for 2-week trip
Best for: Adventure travelers,
long-term travel
Covers adventure activities (hiking, scuba diving, skiing) that most insurers exclude. Can buy and extend coverage while already traveling. Excellent for digital nomads and backpackers.
Best Value: Allianz Travel Insurance
Price: $50-100 for 2-week trip
Best for: Budget travelers,
families
Affordable with solid coverage. 24/7 hotline, easy claims process. Good balance of price and protection for standard trips.
Best for Seniors: Seven Corners
Price: $100-200 for 2-week trip
Best for: Travelers 65+
No age limits, covers pre-existing conditions (with waiver), higher medical coverage limits. More expensive but necessary for older travelers.
Best for Frequent Travelers: Annual Multi-Trip Plans
Price: $400-600/year
Best for: 3+ trips per year
Covers unlimited trips up to 30-45 days each. Cheaper than buying individual policies if you travel often.
Key Factors to Compare
Medical Coverage Limits
Minimum $100,000 for international travel. $250,000+ for destinations with expensive healthcare (US, Japan, Switzerland). Unlimited is ideal.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions unless you buy within 14-21 days of your first trip payment AND meet other requirements. Read the fine print carefully.
Adventure Activities
Standard policies exclude "risky" activities. If you're skiing, scuba diving, or hiking, you need specialized coverage (World Nomads, IMG).
Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)
Optional upgrade (adds 40-60% to premium) that lets you cancel for any reason and get 50-75% refund. Worth it for expensive, non-refundable trips.
What's NOT Covered
- Pre-existing conditions (unless waived)
- Routine medical care
- Pregnancy-related issues after 24-28 weeks
- Injuries from illegal activities
- Losses due to war or terrorism (usually)
- Mental health issues (often excluded)
- Valuables over certain limits (jewelry, electronics)
How Much Does It Cost?
For a $3,000, 2-week international trip:
- Basic coverage: $50-80 (2-3% of trip cost)
- Comprehensive: $100-150 (3-5% of trip cost)
- With CFAR: $150-250 (5-8% of trip cost)
Tips for Choosing
- Buy early - within 14-21 days of first trip payment for best benefits
- Read the policy document, not just the summary
- Check if your credit card offers travel insurance (often limited)
- Consider annual plans if you travel 3+ times per year
- Verify coverage for your specific activities and destinations
Before your trip, also check our Visa Requirements and Power Adapter needs to ensure you're fully prepared.