cheap travel insurance for one week

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Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance of May 2024

Mandy Sleight

Heidi Gollub

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

Updated 5:50 a.m. UTC May 2, 2024

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WorldTrips is the best cheap travel insurance company of 2024 based on our in-depth analysis of the cheapest travel insurance plans. Its Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier plans offer affordable travel insurance with high limits for emergency medical and evacuation benefits bundled with good coverage for trip delays, travel inconvenience and missed connections.

Cheapest travel insurance of 2024

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of travel insurance experts analyzes hundreds of insurance products and thousands of data points to help you find the best travel insurance for your next trip. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content . You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best cheap travel insurance

Top-scoring plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, medical evacuation limit per person, why it’s the best.

WorldTrips tops our rating of the cheapest travel insurance with two plans:

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheaper travel insurance plan of the two, with $100,000 per person in emergency medical benefits as secondary coverage and an optional upgrade to primary coverage. It’s also our pick for the best travel insurance for cruises .
• Atlas Journey Premier costs a little more but gives you $150,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage . This is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority.

Pros and cons

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheapest of our 5-star travel insurance plans.
• Atlas Journey Premier offers $150,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Both plans have top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Each plan offers travel inconvenience coverage of $750 per person.
• 12 optional upgrades, including destination wedding and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Cheap travel insurance for cruises

Travel insured.

Top-scoring plan

Travel Insured offers cheap travel insurance for cruises and its Worldwide Trip Protector plan gets 4 stars in our rating of the best cruise travel insurance .

• Worldwide Trip Protector offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits, which means you won’t have to file medical claims with your health insurance first.
• Cheap trip insurance for cruises.
• Offers a rare $150,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person only available for cruises and tours.

Best cheap travel insurance for families

Travelex has the best cheap travel insurance for families because kids age 17 are covered by your policy for free when they’re traveling with you.

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• $2,000 travel delay coverage per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Only $50,000 per person emergency medical coverage.
• Baggage delay coverage is only $200 and requires a 12-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for seniors

Evacuation limit per person

Nationwide has the best cheap travel insurance for seniors — its Prime plan gets 4 stars in our best senior travel insurance rating. However, Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan ranks higher in our best cheap travel insurance rating.

• Cruise Choice has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion. It also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay, for cruises or tours. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.
• Coverage for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person is only for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for add-on options

AIG offers the best cheap travel insurance for add-on options because the Travel Guard Preferred plan allows you to customize your policy with a host of optional upgrades.

• Travel Guard Preferred upgrades include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings. There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million.
• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your affordable travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Best cheap travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe has the best cheap travel insurance for missed connections because coverage is not limited to cruises and tours, as it is with many policies.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of the best cheap travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

Cheapest travel insurance comparison

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

How much does the cheapest travel insurance cost?

The cheapest travel insurance in our rating is $334. This is for a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred travel insurance plan, based on the average of seven quotes for travelers of various ages to international destinations with a range of trip values.  

Factors that determine travel insurance cost

There are several factors that determine the cost of travel insurance, including:

• Age and number of travelers being insured.
• Trip length.
• Total trip cost.
• The travel insurance plan you choose.
• The travel insurance company.
• Any add-ons, features or upgraded benefits you include in the travel insurance plan.

Expert tip: “In general, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 10% of their total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs,” said Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip.

Is buying the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?

Choosing cheaper travel insurance without paying attention to what a plan covers and excludes could leave you underinsured for your trip. Comparing travel insurance plans side-by-side can help ensure you get enough coverage to protect yourself financially in an emergency for the best price. 

For example, compare these two Travelex travel insurance plans:

• Travel Basic is cheaper but it only provides up to $15,000 for emergency medical expense coverage. You’ll also have to pay extra for coverage for children.
• Travel Select will cost you a bit more but it covers up to $50,000 in medical expenses and includes coverage for kids aged 17 and younger traveling with you. It also offers upgrades such additional medical coverage, “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and an adventure sports rider that may be a good fit for your trip.

Reasons to consider paying more for travel insurance 

Make sure you understand what you’re giving up if you buy the cheapest travel insurance. Here are a few reasons you may consider paying a little extra for better coverage. 

• Emergency medical. The best travel medical insurance offers primary coverage for emergency medical benefits. Travel insurance with primary coverage can cost more than secondary coverage but will save you from having to file a claim with your health insurance company before filing a travel insurance claim.
• Emergency evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote location or planning a boat excursion on your trip, look at travel insurance with a high medical evacuation insurance limit. If you are injured while traveling, transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility could cost in the tens to hundreds of thousands. It may make sense to pay more for travel insurance with robust emergency evacuation coverage. 
• Flexibility. To maximize your trip flexibility, you might consider upgrading your travel insurance to “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage . This will increase the cost of your travel insurance but allow you to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy. The catch is that you’ll need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and will only be reimbursed 50% or 75% of your trip expenses, depending on the plan. 
• Upgrades. Many travel insurance plans have optional extras like car rental collision and adventure sports (which may otherwise be excluded from coverage). These will cost you extra but may give you the coverage you need. 

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

The best way to find the cheapest travel insurance is to determine what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy and compare plans that meet your needs.

 “Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs, wants and concerns. This is why comparison is key,” said Morrow.

Consider the following factors when comparing cheap travel insurance plans.

• How often you’re traveling. A single-trip policy may be the most cost-effective if you’re only going on a single trip this year. But a multi-trip travel insurance plan may be cheaper if you’re going on multiple international trips throughout the year. Annual travel insurance policies cover you for a whole year as long as each trip doesn’t exceed a certain number of days, usually 30 to 90 days. 
• Credit card has travel insurance benefits. The best credit cards offer perks and benefits, and many offer travel insurance-specific benefits. The coverage types and benefit limits can vary, and you must put the entire trip cost on the credit card to use the coverage. If your trip costs more than the coverage limit on your card, you can supplement the rest with a cheaper travel insurance plan.
• The coverage you need. When looking for the best travel insurance option at the most affordable price, only buy extras and upgrades you really need. A basic plan may only provide up to $500 in baggage insurance, but if you only plan to take $300 worth of clothes and accessories, you don’t need to pay more for higher coverage limits.

Is cheap travel insurance worth it?

Cheap travel insurance can be worth it, as long as you understand the plan limitations and exclusions. Taking the time to read your policy, especially the fine print, well before your trip can ensure there won’t be any surprises about what’s covered once your journey begins.

“If a traveler is looking for coverage for travel delays, cancellations, interruptions, medical and baggage — a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide the most bang for their buck,” said Morrow. But if you’re on a tight budget and are only worried about emergency medical care and evacuation coverage while traveling abroad, stand-alone options are cheaper.

Before buying travel insurance, you should also consider what your health insurance will cover. 

“Most domestic health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover medical bills abroad,” said Morrow. Even if you’re staying stateside, you may find value in an affordable travel insurance plan with medical coverage if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). 

A cheap travel insurance plan is better than none at all if you end up in a situation that would have covered some or all of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance . From those top-scoring travel insurance plans, we chose the most affordable for our rating of the cheapest travel insurance.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• Cost: 40 points. We scored the average cost of each travel insurance policy for a variety of trips and traveler profiles.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

Cheapest travel insurance FAQs

When buying travel insurance, cheapest is not always the best. The most affordable travel insurance plans typically offer fewer coverages with lower policy limits and few or no optional upgrades. Add up your total nonrefundable trip costs and compare travel insurance plans and available features that cover your travel expenses. This strategy can help you find the cheapest travel insurance policy that best protects you from financial loss if an unforeseen circumstance arises.

Get the coverage you need: Best travel insurance of 2024

According to our analysis, WorldTrips , Travel Insured International and Travelex offer the best cheap travel insurance. Policy coverage types and limits can vary by each travel insurance provider, so the best way to get the cheapest travel insurance plan is to compare several policies and companies to find the right fit for your budget.

A good rate for travel insurance depends on your budget and coverage needs. The most comprehensive travel insurance plan is usually not the cheapest. But cheap trip insurance may not have enough coverage or the types of coverage you want. Comparing different levels of coverage and how much they cost can help you find the best cheap insurance for travel. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% to 6% of your total travel expenses for one trip, according to our analysis of rates. However, you may find cheaper travel insurance if you opt for a plan with fewer benefits or lower coverage limits. How much you pay for travel insurance will also depend on the number of travelers covered, their ages, the length of the trip and any upgrades you add to your plan.

Travel insurance covers nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs — up to the policy coverage limits — when your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason outlined in your plan documents. Even the cheapest travel insurance policies usually provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies.
• Trip delays.
• Trip interruption.
• Trip cancellation.
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

However, if you’re looking to save on travel insurance, you can shop for a policy that only has travel medical insurance and does not include benefits for trip cancellation .

Even when you buy cheap travel insurance, you can often use upgrade options to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. 

Some common travel insurance add-ons you may want to consider include:

• Rental car damage coverage. 
• Medical bundle.
• Security bundle.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Adventure sports bundle.
• Pet bundle.
• Wedding bundle.
• “Cancel for work reasons” coverage.
• “Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage.
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

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

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

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

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

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8 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

Trawick International »

World Nomads Travel Insurance »

AXA Assistance USA »

Generali Global Assistance »

Seven Corners »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

IMG Travel Insurance »

WorldTrips »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies.

Table of Contents

• Trawick International
• World Nomads Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA

There are plenty of smart ways to save money on your travel plans, but refusing to buy travel insurance isn't necessarily one of them. Not having travel insurance can mean being on the hook for exorbitant medical bills or costs for emergency transportation if you become sick or injured during your trip. You could also face significant financial losses if your trip is delayed or your bags are lost or stolen, and without travel insurance you won't have a third party to rely on for assistance.

Buying affordable travel insurance makes more sense than skipping this coverage altogether, so read on to find out which companies offer the cheapest plans and all the protections you can get for a low cost.

How We Chose the Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

To determine the cheapest travel insurance companies, U.S. News created sample traveler profiles for three separate eight-day trips to different destinations (the Cayman Islands, Spain and California) at a range of price points ($6,500, $10,500 and $8,500, respectively). We used that information to get quotes for the cheapest option for 100% trip cancellation coverage for each trip. We then calculated the average cost of the trips.

The travel insurance companies that made our ranking have a high credit rating and offer the lowest average cost, outlined below. (Note: The sample average costs are not price quotes from U.S. News. To find a travel insurance price quote, use the "View plans" link to enter your trip details and find more information.)

• Generali Global Assistance
• Seven Corners
• Allianz Travel Insurance
• IMG Travel Insurance
• Trip cancellation coverage (up to $30,000) for 100% of the insured vacation
• Trip interruption coverage (up to $30,000) for 100% of the insured vacation
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000 ($150 per day for delays of 12 hours or more)
• $750 in coverage for lost and damaged luggage; $200 for baggage delays
• Up to $500 in coverage for missed connections of three hours or more
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage ($750 sublimit for emergency dental)
• Up to $200,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $2,500 of trip protection for cancellation or interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage of lost, stolen or damaged baggage; up to $750 for baggage delays on your outward journey
• Up to $100,000 in emergency medical insurance; $750 dental sublimit
• Up to $300,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• 24-hour travel assistance services
• Up to 100% coverage for trip cancellation and interruption
• Up to $500 in coverage for trip delays ($100 per day)
• Up to $500 in coverage for missed connections
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $750 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $200 for baggage delays
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for common carrier AD&D
• Coverage up to 100% of the insured vacation for trip cancellation
• Up to 125% of the insured vacation cost for trip interruption
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $1,000 per person ($150 per person daily limit)
• Up to $1,000 per person for lost, damaged or stolen bags; $200 per person for baggage delays
• Up to $500 per person for missed connections
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency assistance and transportation
• AD&D coverage for air travel worth up to $50,000 per person ($100,000 per plan)
• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to 100% of the cost of the trip
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $600 (for six-hour delays; $200 limit per person per day)
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $500
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $500 (for six-hour delays; $100 per day)
• Missed cruise or tour coverage worth up to $500 ($250 per day)
• Emergency accident and sickness medical coverage worth up to $100,000 (secondary coverage)
• Up to $750 in emergency dental coverage
• Up to $250,000 in protection for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to $10,000 per traveler
• Trip interruption coverage worth up to $10,000 per traveler
• Travel delay coverage worth up to $300 ($150 per day)
• Luggage loss and damage protection up to $500 per traveler
• Baggage delay coverage worth up to $200 per day
• Emergency medical and dental coverage up to $10,000 ($500 for dental expenses)
• Emergency medical transportation coverage worth up to $50,000
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Up to 100% in coverage for trip cancellation
• Trip interruption benefit worth up to 125% of the trip cost
• Up to $500 for travel delays per person ($125 daily maximum per person)
• Up to $750 for lost, damaged or stolen bags ($250 maximum per item)
• Up to $150 in luggage delay coverage
• Up to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of trip cost (up to $10,000)
• Trip interruption coverage up to 100% of trip cost
• Up to $500 in coverage for travel delays (five-hour delay required; $100 daily limit)
• Coverage worth up to $1,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage ($250 per item)
• Coverage worth up to $200 for baggage delays of 12 hours or more
• Up to $250 in coverage for airline reissue or cancellation fees
• Up to $250 in coverage for reinstatement of frequent traveler awards
• Emergency medical and illness coverage worth up to $10,000
• Up to $500 in coverage for emergency dental expenses
• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• AD&D coverage worth up to $10,000
• Travel assistance services

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

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Here are the cheapest travel insurance companies of May 2024

These travel insurance companies offer affordable interruption and medical coverage..

Travel insurance can be a valuable protection if your domestic or international trip doesn't quite go to plan. But, after booking flights, hotels, rental cars and experiences, you probably don't want to spend much more on your trip.  

Luckily, travel insurance isn't a huge expense, and some companies offer surprisingly affordable rates to insure your trip. CNBC Select gathered data on dozens of the top travel insurance companies and found several that stand out for their strong coverage at low prices.

Here are the best cheap travel insurance companies if you're looking to cover your upcoming adventures. (See our methodology for more information on how we made this list.)

Best cheap travel insurance  

• Best for road trips: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection  
• Best for adventure travel : World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Best for families : C&F Travel Insured International Travel Insurance  
• Best for cruises : Nationwide Travel Insurance

Best for road trips   

Berkshire hathaway travel protection.

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

Policy highlights

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

24/7 assistance available

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

Who's this for? Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is ideal for those looking for strong coverage backed by a major insurer at a relatively affordable price point.

Standout benefits: This company offers travel insurance that's tailored to a variety of different modes of transportation and travel styles. It offers additional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage and rental car collision coverage 

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for adventure travel

World nomads travel insurance.

World Nomads offers travel insurance for all sorts of travelers, from families to solo adventure travelers. Policies are underwritten by Nationwide and offer strong coverage of emergency accident and illness situations, as well as emergency evacuation scenarios.

• Affordable coverage for many travelers
• Coverage for adventure activities like scuba diving, bungee jumping and more
• Lower trip cancellation limits than other travel insurance we reviewed

Who's this for? World Nomads Travel Insurance is a good choice for travelers looking for affordable coverage. It's an especially strong option for those planning on adventure activities like scuba diving which can be excluded from some other travel insurance plans.  

Standout benefits: This travel insurance offers coverage for stolen gear or belongings, and high coverage limits for emergency medical insurance compared to some of the other plans we reviewed.  

Best for families 

C&f travel insured international travel insurance.

Travel Insurance from this company can include annual travel insurance plans as well as single-trip travel insurance. Optional coverages include cancel for any reason coverage and travel inconvenience coverage. Cruise insurance is available.

• Cruise coverage available
• Option to enhance your coverage with additional, optional coverages
• CFAR not available to New York residents

Who's this for? For families wanting to cover an upcoming trip or vacation, C&F Travel Insured International has two plans (in most states) that can help with everything from trip interruptions to missed tour or cruise connections.  

Standout benefits: C&F's policies are particularly family-friendly since children aged 17 and younger can be included for no extra cost when on the same plan as a paid adult. It also offers robust evacuation benefits.

Best for cruises  

Nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide's wide coverage for travel insurance allows many different types of travelers to find coverage that fits their needs. Three levels of cruise insurance coverage gives extra options to cruise passengers.

• 10-day review period on cruise insurance policies to make sure the plan meets your needs (not available in NY or WA)
• Most basic cruise plan doesn't offer CFAR coverage

Who's this for?  Those embarking on a cruise will find enhanced, cruise-specific coverage from Nationwide . It offers three unique levels of cruise-specific coverage that can help with things like mechanical breakdowns, itinerary changes, and other on-ship disruptions.  

Standout benefits: Nationwide also offers single trip insurance and annual trip insurance plans for those planning other types of vacations.  

More on our top cheap travel insurance companies 

Berkshire hathaway travel protection .

Berkshire Hathaway offers specialized coverage for many different types of travelers, from adventure-focused travelers planning on sky diving or scuba diving to luxury travel coverage. This company also offers tailored coverage for road, air and cruise travel. Claims can be paid as quickly as the same day.  

CFAR coverage available?   

24/7 assistance?  

[ Return to summary ]

World Nomads Travel Insurance 

World Nomads offers travel insurance coverage backed by Nationwide . It offers a 10-day review (provided that no claims have been filed) to help you make sure your coverage is what you want. The company also offers the opportunity to buy coverage when already abroad.  

C&F Travel Insured International 

C&F Travel Insured International has been offering travel insurance for 25 years. The company has a convenient mobile app for travelers for quick access to travel alerts and in-app claims. This travel insurance can be a good option for anyone booking with points or miles since plans offer up to $250 for penalty costs associated with returning points or miles to an account when a trip is canceled for a covered reason.  

Nationwide Travel Insurance 

Nationwide's travel insurance offers a variety of options for all types of travelers, including cruise travelers. It offers strong coverage for both interruption scenarios and medical situations. Customer service is available around the clock and around the world.  

What is travel insurance? 

Travel insurance is coverage designed to protect you while you're miles away from home. It can cover everything from travel inconveniences like lost luggage to serious medical emergencies while abroad.  

What does travel insurance cover? 

Travel insurance can cover injuries and illnesses while abroad where your typical medical insurance won't apply. It can also cover travel interruptions and delays , including lost luggage. While some credit cards offer travel insurance perks, a specific travel insurance policy could bolster that coverage.  

How much does travel insurance cost?  

Travel insurance generally costs about 4% to 10% of your trip's total cost, according to travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip . Costs vary based on the age of the travelers, how long you're traveling, and the types and limits of coverage.  

Is travel insurance worth it?  

While no one expects their trips to go awry, travel insurance can be a good backup for anything that does happen. Travel insurance is worth it because it can keep you from having to pick up the costs of medical bills or lost travel expenses if something goes wrong. Keep in mind though that several  top travel credit cards offer certain travel insurance benefits  so you may already have some coverage.

What's the best company for travel insurance?  

CNBC Select reviewed dozens of travel insurance companies and found that AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance and Travel Guard Travel Insurance stand out for their strong coverage, variety of choices and financial strength.  

Bottom line

Travel insurance can cover a variety of situations, from medical emergencies while abroad to lost luggage or delays. It generally costs between 5% and 10% of your trip's total non-refundable expenses and can save you significant money if something doesn't go to plan. However, it's important to shop around as some companies offer cheaper rates than others. Also, remember that you may already have some form of coverage if you hold certain premium credit cards .

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

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

Our methodology 

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

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

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

1. A two-person trip to Mexico:

• $2,000 per person, $4,000 total
• New York residents
• Travelers aged 35

2. A two-person trip to the United Kingdom:

• $3,000 per person, $6,000 total
• Travelers aged 65

3. A family of four's trip to the United Kingdom:

• $3,000 per person, $12,000 total
• Two travelers aged 35 with two children, ages 8 and 10

4. A cruise to Alaska for a family of four (including flights):

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

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

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money . And follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

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The Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies of 2021

Best for Families

John Hancock

Best for Solo Travelers

Best for Frequent Travelers

Allianz Global Assistance

Best for Minimum Coverage

AXA Travel Insurance

Best for Adventure Sports

World Nomads

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If you’ve ever planned a big trip, you know how expensive it can be. For your next vacation, we recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you from financial risks you might face while traveling, like losing your luggage or needing medical care.

Travel insurance is a must-have if you are planning an international trip or going to pre-pay for transportation and activities during your vacation. If you’re unable to attend a particular activity or you miss a flight, travel insurance will reimburse you for the cost. We evaluated the cheapest travel insurance companies to consider based on coverage, medical limits, AM best ratings, and more.

The 5 Best Cheap Travel Insurance Companies of 2021

• John Hancock : Best for Solo Travelers
• IMG : Best for Thrillseekers
• Allianz Global :  Best for Frequent Travelers
• AXA: Best for Minimum Coverage
• World Nomads: Best for Adventure Sports

Best for Solo Travelrs

Why we chose it

• 4.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• A+ AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• $50K-$200K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 90 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• High medical coverage limits
• Multiple plans to choose from
• Excellent customer service
• Kids not included
• No adventure sports coverage

Add-ons & Coverage

• Trip cancellation: 100% of cost
• Cancel for any reason: 75% of cost
• Lost baggage: $750–$2,500
• Medical evacuation: $250K–$1M
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance

Best for Thrillseekers

• 4.75 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• A AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• $500K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 180 days Trip Length This is the maximum number of days the travel insurance company will cover your trip.
• Most variety of plans
• Tailored to adventure spots
• Cancel for any reason
• Few optional coverage options
• Higher cost than competitors
• Lost baggage: $150–$2,500
• Medical evacuation: Up to $1M
• Sports equipment rental: $2,000
• Patriot Travel Medical Insurance
• Patriot America Plus
• Patriot Platinum Travel Medical Insurance
• iTravelInsured Travel Insurance Lite, SE, LX
• GlobeHopper Senior
• Patriot Multi-Trip Travel Medical Insurance

Best for Frequent Travelerts

• 3.4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• $10K-$50K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• Multi-trip plans
• Lengthy single-trip plans
• Kids’ coverage included
• Lower medical limits than competitors
• Limited coverage upgrades
• Lower cancellation and interruption
• Trip cancellation: $5K–$100K
• Trip interruption:$5K–$150K
• Lost baggage: $500–$2K
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• AllTrips Basic, Executive, Premier, and Prime
• OneTrip Prime, Basic, Premier, Emergency Medical, and Cancellation Plus
• 4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• NR AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• $25K-$50K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• 60 days AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• Three plans to choose from
• Highest coverage for lost baggage
• Travel protection plan
• Third-party underwriter: Nationwide
• Not available in NH or MA
• Only two add-ons available
• Trip cancellation: 100% of costs
• Trip interruption: 100%–150% of costs
• Lost baggage: $750–$3,000
• Medical evacuation: $100K–$1M
• 2.75 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• $100K Medical Coverage Medical coverage is what the company will pay out to you if you were injured or ill on your trip and needed medical care abroad.
• High-risk coverage
• Over 200 sports activities covered
• Can change coverage anytime
• Lower trip cancellation coverage than competitors
• No pre-existing condition coverage
• Trip cancellation: $2,500–$20K
• Lost baggage: $1,000–$3,000
• Medical evacuation: $300K–$500K

Cheap Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know

Quality before cost.

First things first: You should never pick a travel insurance company based on price alone. The bargain policies often cut cost by skimping on coverage — and it makes no sense to pay less for a policy that won’t cover you if your bags get stolen, a hurricane cancels your tour, or you’re injured on a hike.

Before looking at prices, we evaluated travel insurance companies on their quality of coverage and service. We’re confident that all of our top picks will be affordable and have your back, no matter what.

Reliability

We started with 22 of the nation’s top, third-party travel insurance providers, then narrowed in on the most reputable companies guaranteed to be there for you in a pinch. We made sure that each company on our list earned top financial strength scores from AM Best , an independent rating agency that focuses on the insurance industry.

A rating of “A-” or higher means that your insurer can pay out on any claim you might make, no matter how large. We also looked for outstanding customer service, calling each company to test the knowledge and helpfulness of their representatives. Great support is essential, as these representatives will be your first point of contact in an emergency.

Essential coverage options

Along with strong financial backing and excellent customer service, we made sure our top picks offer well-rounded coverage. It’s up to you to choose the type and amount of coverage that’s right for your trip — but your travel insurance company needs to make the most important options available. Here’s what we looked for:

Emergency medical care

Medical coverage is the most important part of travel insurance, as U.S. health plans generally won’t cover you while you’re abroad. The travel industry experts we spoke with recommend a minimum of $50,000 in medical coverage (enough to cover at least a week in the hospital).

Medical evaluation and repatriation

Medical evacuation is separate from medical care, but the two go hand in hand. Evacuation coverage kicks in if you need to be airlifted out of a remote location or flown back to the U.S. in a medical transport helicopter — costs that can easily reach $50,000 to $100,000. We required companies to offer at least $100,000 evacuation coverage, covering even worst-case scenarios.

Trip cancellation or interruption

Trip interruption or cancellation coverage is likely what comes to mind when you think of travel insurance. It can reimburse up to 150% of the total travel expenses should your trip be cut short or cancelled for a covered reason. “Covered reasons” vary by policy, but usually include things like injury, illness, natural disaster, or cancellation by an airline or travel company.

Baggage or personal item loss/delay

With baggage loss and delay coverage, your insurer will pay out a certain pre-set amount should your belongings get lost in transit. This will allow you to purchase clothing and supplies to hold you over until delayed items arrive, or reimburse you if luggage is lost entirely.

24/7 worldwide assistance

24/7 worldwide assistance is just what it sounds like: a guarantee that your travel insurance company will be there to help, no matter where you are or what you need. Whether it’s a hospital referral, emergency transportation, help finding lost luggage, or anything else, you shouldn’t have to wonder whether your provider will be there for you in an emergency.

How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance Company

• Insure prepaid, non-refundable costs: If you’re opting for cancellation coverage, make sure to only include prepaid, non-refundable deposits in your overall trip cost. The higher your trip’s value, the more your insurance will cost — so there’s no sense including charges that you’ll be able to recoup without insurance, like refundable rentals or hotel reservations with a lenient cancellation policy.
• Don’t pay for double coverage: Before purchasing travel insurance, make sure the policy doesn’t duplicate something you’re already covered for. For example, many homeowners insurance policies insure your belongings even when you’re away from home, meaning they duplicate the lost/stolen baggage coverage in comprehensive travel insurance. Likewise, your auto insurance or credit card might cover you for rental car damage in another country.
• Choose a higher medical deductible: Like health insurance, medical travel insurance includes a deductible that you must pay out of pocket before your provider will chip in. The higher your deductible, the less you’ll pay for coverage — so bumping that number up can help you save. Keep in mind, though, that the difference might only be a few bucks. In that case, paying a little extra on your policy is worth it for the added peace of mind.
• Skip spendy upgrades: Two travel insurance options — “cancel for any reason “ and “cancel for work reasons” — greatly expand the scope of your insurance. They guarantee an insurance payout no matter what the circumstance was for cancellation instead of restricting coverage to a handful of pre-approved scenarios. However, these options mean a significant price hike; “cancel for any reason” in particular can add up to 40% to your overall cost. If you’re looking to insure your trip on the cheap, it’s best to skip these catch-all clauses.

Cheap Travel Insurance Quotes Comparison

To compare the best cheap travel insurance companies , we compared the quotes for a single, 26-year-old person, traveling from the U.S. to the most popular destination for Americans outside of North America: the United Kingdom. Average trip length of six nights with one travel day on each end as well as an average trip cost of $2,300 were included in our quote analysis.

Cheap Travel Insurance FAQ

What is the cheapest travel insurance.

Put simply, there is no single “cheapest” travel insurance company. True, AXA and World Nomads returned the lowest quotes in our price comparison — but that won’t hold true for everyone. Prices are totally dependent on your trip, your age, and the policy you choose.

We recommend checking prices with each of our top picks before you buy; they all offer online quote tools, so it will only take a few minutes to find the best deal for your trip.

When should I buy travel insurance?

You should purchase travel insurance for your trip immediately after you’ve booked. This allows travel coverage to start sooner rather than later and protects you for a longer time (in cases of cancellation). Also, be mindful of buying travel insurance too close to your departure date. You could risk your eligibility for certain coverage, such as pre-existing medical conditions.

What does travel insurance cover?

It depends! Based on the policy you choose, you can expect the bare minimum of covered expenses by your travel insurance:

• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss or delay
• Accidental death and dismemberment
• Emergency medical/dental
• Emergency medical transportation

What is typically not covered?

This also varies greatly based on the plan and insurer, but generally, you can expect to still be responsible for these out-of-the-ordinary expenses:

• Dental treatments (not caused by an accident or injury)
• Cosmetic surgery and all non-medically necessary treatments
• Traveling against advice of a physician
• Exposure to hazardous (biological, chemical, nuclear) material
• Accidents due to intoxication above the legal limit or intoxication from illegal drugs or narcotics
• Accidents or injury due to professional athletic/sports competitions or events
• Participation in a crime, war, riot or civil disorder
• Baggage loss or damage to animals (important if you’re traveling with your pet!)

What is a good price for travel insurance?

A good price for travel insurance depends on where you’re going, how many people are traveling and the total cost of the trip. For a single adult traveler, a good starting price is around $70. If you’re planning to add extra coverage, the rates will increase.

How do I get cheap travel insurance?

To get cheap travel insurance, shop around and get quotes from multiple providers for the amount of coverage you need. Make sure you’re not purchasing coverage you already have, like rental car insurance from your credit card company. Before you buy insurance, consider which coverages you really need, and which ones you can skip.

Methodology

We evaluated travel insurance providers based on coverage, number of plans, optional coverage, medical coverage limits, and AM Best ratings to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best travel insurance provider reviews. To compare travel insurance providers with other brands across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:

• Essential Coverage: When comparing travel insurance providers, we considered essential coverage to be 24/7 assistance, trip cancellation/interruption, medical evacuation and more. Providers with more points of essential coverage scored higher. 
• Number of Plans: Flexibility and having options is important which is why Reviews.com awarded travel insurance providers with higher scores if they presented more plans. 
• Add-on Coverage: Travel insurance providers with more optional coverage add-ons scored higher in this metric — higher flexibility and customization in travel insurance is an indicator of the best travel insurance companies.
• Medical Coverage Limit: We compared the medical coverage limits of the best travel insurance companies and awarded providers with higher scores if they had higher medical coverage limits. 
• AM Best: Reviews.com utilized AM Best ratings to assign a score based on each home insurance company’s financial stability.

About the Authors

Elizabeth Rivelli Contributing Writer

Elizabeth Rivelli is an insurance writer for Reviews.com. Over the last year, she has covered insurance providers, best policies, industry trends and more. Elizabeth has been featured in The Simple Dollar, Bankrate and Coverage.com, among others. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. The Best Term Life Insurance Companies is Elizabeth’s favorite review on Reviews.com.

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Table Of Contents

Cheapest Travel Insurance (May 2024)

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

Founder of personal finance site TomorrowsDollar.com

Candidate for CFP® certification

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

Read Editorial Guidelines

Featured in

Licensed auto and home insurance agent

4+ years in content creation and marketing

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

Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute

20+ years in insurance and communications

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

Updated December 11, 2023

Table of contents

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

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

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

Where to find the cheapest insurer

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

Travel Insurance International

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

Baggage delay coverage kicks in after only three hours

14-day cancel period (full premium refund)

Event ticket reimbursement only applies to non-refundable registration fees

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

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance

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

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

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

Must provide email address to get a quote

Baggage delay reimbursement coverage kicks in after 24 hours

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

Baggage delay only needs to be 12 hours

10-day premium refund policy

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

No rental car collision or loss coverage

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

Medical coverage limits as high as $8 million

Up to 36 months of continuous coverage

Longer requirement for delayed baggage coverage

Low emergency dental coverage

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

Strong consumer ratings

15-day free preview period (full refund offered)

Not available in all states

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

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

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

Shop around

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

Decide what’s most important

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

Adjust your policy details

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

Capitalize on other coverage you might have

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

How Much Is Travel Insurance?

What travel insurance covers.

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

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

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

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

Trip or baggage delay and interruption coverage

Trip cancellation coverage

Pet travel and fees

Accidental death or dismemberment

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

What travel insurance doesn’t cover

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

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

Named tropical cyclones

Pre-existing medical conditions or known illnesses

Acts of war and terrorism

Epidemics and pandemics

Dangerous or high-risk activities

Cheap travel insurance FAQs

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

Which factors determine the cost of travel insurance?

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

What is the cheapest travel insurance?

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

What is the average cost of travel insurance?

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

Methodology

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

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

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5 Best Cheap Travel Insurance in 2024 (plus DISCOUNTS)

Home | Travel | 5 Best Cheap Travel Insurance in 2024 (plus DISCOUNTS)

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

If you’re taking a trip and looking for the best cheap travel insurance , you’ve come to the right place. Travel insurance may not be the most exciting topic, but it’s an essential part of planning a trip , so make sure you don’t leave home without it!

Besides, you can find affordable travel insurance for all types of budgets, so rest assured that you can get great coverage without spending a lot of money. In this guide, I’ll share the 5 cheapest international travel insurance companies to help you find the perfect fit for your trip needs.

5 Best cheap travel insurance in 2024

I will say upfront that we use Heymondo for all our trips. It’s one of the best travel insurance companies out there, offering tons of coverage and competitive prices. Plus, Heymondo is the only provider that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a claim for reimbursement. Plus, you can get a 5% Heymondo discount just for being a Capture the Atlas reader.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Of course, there are other great options, such as SafetyWing , a cheap travel medical insurance that’s perfect for those on a tight budget who don’t mind having a deductible. Keep reading to see all the best options, compare prices, and see what inexpensive travel insurance should include.

Top 5 cheap travel insurance companies in 2024

In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best cheap travel insurance companies of 2024, so I’m sure you’ll find an option that’s perfect for you. To sum up, these are my top 5 recommendations:

• Heymondo , the best cheap travel insurance company
• SafetyWing , the best medical-only cheap travel insurance
• IMG , the best budget travel insurance for seniors
• Trawick International , a cheap travel insurance for pre-existing conditions
• Travelex , a cheap travel insurance for families

Keep reading to learn more about each company, including its prices, coverage limits, and other benefits, as well as a chart comparing the cheapest travel insurance policies.

Best cheap travel insurance price comparison

Before I get into details about each of these cheap travel insurance companies , I want to give you an overview of their prices and benefits. This chart will let you see each provider’s price per person, deductible, and coverage limits at a glance.

For this cheap travel insurance comparison , I used the example of a 30-year-old traveler from Canada who was going to Costa Rica for one week with a trip cost of $2,500. I also chose the most affordable plan for each company:

As you can see, Heymondo and SafetyWing are the two cheapest international travel insurance options. While Heymondo costs more, it also offers much higher coverage limits than SafetyWing, which is why it’s our favorite. It’s also the only provider that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.

IMG Global, Trawick International, and Travelex offer similar coverage in some categories, but they also cost more. I recommend reading about each company below so you can determine which one best suits your needs .

1. Heymondo , the best cheap travel insurance company

Heymondo is one of the best cheap travel insurance companies overall, offering a high amount of coverage at a great price. With Heymondo, you’ll have comprehensive travel and medical-related benefits, including emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation insurance , and baggage loss.

There is also a $0 deductible for single-trip and annual multi-trip insurance, and the deductible for long-stay travel insurance is just $250 per claim. Best of all, they’re the only company that pays your medical bills upfront , so you don’t have to pay any medical bills and file a claim later to get a reimbursement.

Heymondo was also one of the first providers to include COVID coverage in its policies, which set the bar for other insurers. Moreover, the 24/7 traveler assistance app is another testament to Heymondo’s dedication and customer service. You can use it to get in touch with a team of doctors for advice and recommendations for the nearest clinic or hospital.

For all these reasons, we’ve been traveling with this insurer for 5 years, and we have a detailed Heymondo insurance review that you can read for more information. Overall, it’s the best value for money, and for just a bit more, you can upgrade your coverage to include adventure sports, cruises, and electronics.

Right now, we have the annual multi-trip policy from Heymondo, which is the cheapest international travel insurance for frequent travelers. If you decide to purchase from Heymondo, don’t forget to take advantage of our 5% Heymondo discount code by using our link .

2. SafetyWing , the best medical-only cheap travel insurance

Another affordable travel insurance to look into is SafetyWing . Their Nomad Insurance plan offers excellent, budget-friendly medical coverage with some travel-related benefits like baggage loss.

One of the most unique things about SafetyWing is that you can get coverage in your home country for 30 days after you’ve been abroad for 90 days, so it’s a good deal if you want supplementary protection for any medical issues. Moreover, this is a good, cheap travel insurance for families since it offers free coverage for up to two kids under the age of 10.

Keep in mind that while SafetyWing has cheap travel medical insurance , it focuses mostly on health-related benefits like emergency medical expenses and COVID coverage. That said, if you’re fine with having medical-only insurance for travel , it’s one of the best deals.

Another drawback of SafetyWing is that it has a $250 deductible per claim, so you’ll have to pay $250 toward your medical bills before the company will cover the rest. If you don’t want a deductible, Heymondo is a good alternative.

3. IMG Global , the best budget travel insurance for seniors

If you’re looking for travel insurance for seniors , then IMG Global is one of the best options. Finding budget-friendly travel insurance for seniors can be super tricky, but IMG Global has a plan specifically designed for travelers 65 and older.

The GlobeHopper Senior Single Trip plan offers travel and medical-related benefits and the option to choose a maximum coverage limit of $50,000, $100,000, $500,000, or $1,000,000. It’s also one of the few cheap travel insurances for pre-existing medical conditions , so it’s ideal for older travelers. While there aren’t as many travel-related benefits with this plan, it does offer lots of flexibility, as customers can choose a deductible of $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, or $2,500.

And for other travelers, IMG Global’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite plan is a good deal, with a $0 deductible and a good amount of coverage in all travel and medical-related categories. This includes emergency medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption benefits. In fact, its trip cancellation covers a wide range of reasons, including work transfers, job loss, passport/visa theft, natural disasters, and injury/illness.

However, this plan is among the most expensive options we found, so if you’re looking for cheaper single-trip travel insurance , I recommend Heymondo .

4. Trawick International , an affordable travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

Trawick International is another cheap travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions , so if that’s something you’re looking for, I suggest getting a quote.

The company’s Safe Travels Explorer Plus plan is just a few dollars more than the Safe Travels Explorer plan, so it’s worth shelling out a bit more for its comprehensive coverage. This includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more, plus a $0 deductible. You can even add cancel for any reason travel insurance to your policy.

While Trawick International offers travel insurance for pre-existing conditions , you must purchase your plan within 7 days of the initial trip deposit date to enjoy this benefit. Also, it’s worth noting that the medical expenses coverage is on the lower end, at $250,000. If you don’t have a pre-existing medical condition and want higher medical coverage, you can get about five times more protection by going with Heymondo .

5. Travelex , a cheap travel insurance for families

Finally, Travelex is another cheap travel insurance company and a great option if you’re looking for domestic travel insurance for the USA . Travelex’s plans are affordably priced and offer comprehensive protection, including coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

You can choose from the Travel Basic or Travel Select plan, although we recommend the latter, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or want a higher amount of coverage. That said, make sure to purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment so you receive a Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusive Waiver.

Additionally, Travelex is a good option to consider if you want cheap family travel insurance since kids under 17 are included for free. Plus, you can upgrade your coverage to include things like rental cars, Cancel for Any Reason, and extra medical coverage.

Travelex’s benefits include coverage for baggage loss, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and evacuation and repatriation. While it also offers emergency medical expenses coverage, the limits are quite low, especially considering the price.

Also, for Canadian residents, there is a medical-only plan, which could be a good option if you’re looking for cheap medical-only travel insurance .

What does cheap international travel insurance cover?

When looking for the best deals on travel insurance , remember to check the policies carefully so you understand what’s included. Some cheap travel medical insurance plans include higher amounts of coverage compared to others with similar prices, so it gets a bit tricky.

Below, you’ll find the most important things to consider when browsing affordable travel insurance .

Emergency medical coverage

First, emergency medical expense coverage is one of the most crucial aspects of any cheap travel health insurance . You want to be covered for any unexpected costs that arise from an injury or illness while abroad. Emergency medical coverage includes things like hospitalizations, doctor-prescribed tests, treatments, and even dental procedures.

Emergency medical coverage with cheap travel insurance

Again, this is one of the most important benefits to look for, even if you want inexpensive travel insurance . It’s worth paying a bit more for a high amount of coverage, especially if you’re shopping around for travel insurance for the USA , where healthcare costs are through the roof.

Medical evacuation & repatriation

Another thing to look for when browsing the cheapest holiday insurance is medical evacuation and repatriation. The costs for these services are super expensive, so having this type of coverage is essential.

With medical evacuation and repatriation protection, you’ll be covered if you need to be transported from a remote area to a hospital or from your travel destination to your home country due to a serious injury or illness. It’s easy to overlook this benefit but should something happen and you don’t have this coverage, it could result in a huge financial loss.

Medical evacuation & repatriation coverage

Should an emergency arise, you don’t want to delay getting proper medical care, so having this type of coverage is very important!

Covid-related coverage

As I mentioned, Heymondo was one of the first providers to cover COVID-19 the same as any other illness, and many other insurance companies soon followed suit. While the height of the pandemic is over, it’s still worth having COVID coverage.

Besides, most cheap international travel insurance includes this type of coverage, so it won’t increase the price of your policy. If you do happen to contract COVID during your trip, you’ll be covered for the medical and travel-related expenses.

The exact terms and conditions depend on the company, but most insurers cover travelers for COVID testing, treatment, and quarantine.

Trip cancellation (and trip interruption)

Another thing you’ll want your plan to include is some type of trip cancellation coverage. This usually covers reasons like illness, inclement weather, strikes, and jury duty. However, you should always double-check your policy since providers vary on what they will and won’t cover.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits

Also, be aware that cheap travel insurance typically doesn’t include Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) but may offer it as an add-on. You can check our guide on the best cancel for any reason travel insurance for more information.

Along the same lines, trip interruption coverage will reimburse you if you need to cut your trip short due to a serious illness, injury, or the death of a family member. When buying cheap travel insurance , check to see if this benefit is included and what exactly falls under this category.

Lost or stolen baggage & delays

Lastly, baggage loss is something that even the most affordable travel insurance plans should cover. Anyone who has traveled knows that there is always the risk of your luggage getting lost, damaged, or delayed, so having this type of coverage is a good idea.

Under this benefit, you’ll receive a reimbursement so you can buy new toiletries, clothes, and other essentials if something happens to your luggage. The amount depends on the particular plan you choose.

What’s not covered by cheap travel insurance?

Now that you know the most important things to look for when shopping for travel insurance on a budget , let’s talk about what’s not covered. While cheap travel insurance can definitely offer comprehensive coverage, some policies only cover medical-related expenses, so you won’t be covered for travel-related issues.

Others exclude certain things like coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, natural disasters, and fear of travel. Again, it’s crucial that you look over your policy carefully so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Tips for buying travel insurance on a budget

Getting cheap international travel insurance isn’t just a matter of purchasing the least expensive policy you see. To get the best bang for your buck, keep these tips in mind:

• Pay attention to the policy limits to make sure you’re getting the best deal on travel insurance . While you might find lots of plans with low prices, that doesn’t mean they all offer the same amount of coverage.
• Buy at the right time . It’s better to purchase a policy as soon as you book your vacation so you know the exact price of your trip (this makes the claims process easier). Also, if you buy your policy just after booking your trip, you will have more benefits regarding the cancellation coverage.
• Shop around and compare cheap travel insurance policies from different providers.
• Only buy what you need and decline any unnecessary extras. For example, if you just need medical coverage, you don’t need to bother with things like trip cancellation and baggage loss coverage.
• If you travel more than three times a year, consider getting annual multi-trip insurance , which will save you money in the long run.
• Check to see if your credit card has travel insurance benefits . Some cards offer protection for trip cancellation or delayed/lost baggage (I’ll touch on this later).

By keeping these tips in mind, you can find cheap travel insurance for any type of trip.

Medical-only vs. cheap travel insurance

As you’re shopping for low-cost travel insurance , you’ll probably come across medical-only travel insurance . While they’re both affordable options, they aren’t the same, so it’s important to know the difference.

Cheap international travel insurance includes both medical and travel-related coverage. This means that you’ll be covered for health emergencies like sicknesses and injuries, as well as trip cancellation and baggage loss.

On the other hand, medical-only travel insurance will only apply to medical-related scenarios, and the coverage limits tend to be a lot higher. Of course, this really comes in handy when you’re traveling to countries where healthcare is exceedingly high, like the United States or Japan.

For our trips, we like to have insurance that covers medical and travel-related situations, which is why we always go with Heymondo travel insurance plans. This way, we’re covered for medical emergencies, trip delays, lost baggage, evacuation, repatriation, and more.

Is getting affordable travel insurance worth it?

Without a doubt, travel insurance is worth it , always! When you travel as much as us, you realize that anything can happen while you’re abroad, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared. We’ve had several scary experiences and mishaps, and if it weren’t for our annual travel insurance from Heymondo , we would’ve been stuck with huge headaches and financial losses.

Here are just a few examples of times when we’ve had to rely on our insurance:

• We had our most traumatic experience in the Peruvian Amazon when our boat capsized and tossed all of the passengers and their bags into the river . We were carried away by the water for about 15 minutes before we were able to get rescued and climb back on land. While Dan and I didn’t need medical attention, we lost a lot of equipment, including a couple of laptops and cameras, several lenses, two hard drives, and our passports. Fortunately, we were able to contact Heymondo via their 24/7 app, and they helped us connect with the Spanish embassy to return to Spain for new passports. Plus, our policy included $750 dollars each for Dan and me to cover our lost equipment.
• A less dramatic but still terrifying incident occurred in Alaska when Dan’s drone hit a tree and fell on me, cutting up my hand . I got freaked out by all the blood, and, in a rush, we drove to the nearest hospital for medical care. If we had contacted Heymondo first, they would’ve arranged the medical payments in advance, but since we forgot to, we had to pay the $3,000 bill upfront. Heymondo quickly reimbursed us, of course, but imagine if we hadn’t had trip insurance!
• In Ecuador, Dan got a stomach sickness that led to a hospital visit. Luckily, with our cheap holiday insurance , we were covered for this emergency medical expense.

So yes, getting insurance is totally worth it! Best of all, there are affordable travel insurance plans out there, as you’ve seen in this guide, so there’s no reason not to get it.

Credit cards with cheap travel insurance benefits

The last thing I want to touch on involves getting cheap travel insurance with one of the best credit cards for travel . While not all cards have this benefit, some offer trip cancellation protection or reimbursement for lost or delayed baggage.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is one option that offers cardholders coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, as well as baggage loss/delay coverage. So, if you’re thinking about buying cheap travel insurance that mostly covers medical-related expenses, you might want to look into a credit card with travel-related benefits.

That said, I still recommend investing in a good travel insurance policy, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. You can find the best deals on travel insurance by looking into any of the providers I mentioned in this guide.

FAQs – Cheap travel insurance

To end this guide, I’m sharing the answers to the most common questions about affordable travel insurance :

What is the best affordable travel insurance?

In my opinion, Heymondo has the best cheap travel insurance on the market, although it’s also worth looking at SafetyWing , IMG Global , Trawick International , and Travelex .

How much does travel insurance cost?

You can buy cheap travel insurance for under $10 per week, although the amount of coverage varies.

What are the different types of budget travel insurance?

You can find cheap medical-only travel insurance or affordable insurance with travel and medical-related coverage.

The best cheap travel insurance covers emergency medical expenses, repatriation, baggage loss/delay, and trip cancellation.

What’s not covered by cheap travel medical insurance?

Some budget travel insurance policies won’t cover pre-existing conditions or travelers over a certain age.

When should I get travel insurance if I’m on a budget?

You should purchase your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday.

Is buying cheap travel insurance worth it?

Yes, even if it’s a cheaper travel medical insurance , it’s still worth getting. This way, you’re covered in case anything goes wrong during your trip, so you can focus on enjoying yourself.

I hope this guide helps you find the best affordable trip insurance for your needs. Don’t forget that you can save money on a Heymondo policy by using our link .

If you have any other questions about budget travel insurance , feel free to leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to help you out.

Until then, have a great trip, and don’t leave home without travel insurance!

Don't miss a 5% discount on your HeyMondo travel insurance  

and the only one that pays all your medical bills upfront for you!

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How to Find the Best Travel Insurance

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 .

Table of Contents

What travel insurance covers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel insurance costs vary depending on:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel medical insurance

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

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

International travel insurance

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

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

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay

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

Your own illness.

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

Natural disasters.

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

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

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

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

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

Baggage and personal belongings

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

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

» Learn more: Baggage insurance explained

Emergency medical assistance, evacuation and repatriation

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

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

24-hour assistance

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

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

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

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance

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

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

» Learn more: NerdWallet's guide to life insurance

Rental car coverage

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

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

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

» Learn more: Best credit cards for rental car coverage

A note about single vs. long-term policies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: 10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

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

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

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

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

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

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $500,000.

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

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

• Travel accident: Up to $1 million.

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

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

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

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

Terms apply.

Pros: Coverage is free.

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

Travel agents and travel reservation sites

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

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

Cons: You can’t customize the coverage.

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

Travel insurance comparison sites

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

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

Cons: Comparing multiple policies takes time.

Travel insurance companies

You can purchase travel insurance directly from an insurance provider.

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

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

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

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

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

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

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

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

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

Squaremouth

Compare plans from more than 30 providers.

Over 86,000 customer reviews of insurers.

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

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

TravelInsurance.com

Compare plans from 13 providers.

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

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

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

InsureMyTrip

Compare plans from more than two dozen providers.

More than 70,000 customer reviews.

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

Includes a link to plans that offer COVID coverage.

Compare plans from 11 providers.

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

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

Compare different insurance plans from 35 providers.

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

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

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

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

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

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

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

You booked flexible airline tickets.

Your hotel room has a good cancellation policy.

It's already included in your credit card.

You haven't booked any nonrefundable activities.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

trip cancellation benefits

to get your nonrefundable deposit back.

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

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Platinum Card® from American Express

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

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

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

Keep reading

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

What is travel insurance?

How much is travel insurance?

Is travel insurance worth it?

What does travel insurance cover?

Does travel insurance cover COVID?

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

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

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

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

Best overall

• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Best Travel Insurance of 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Best Travel Insurance

• Best Overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance
• Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

How we rate travel insurance »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance runner-up

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for cruises

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. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review here.

Best travel insurance for reputation

Covers up to 100% of trip cancellation costs, a minimum of up to $750 in luggage losses, and 24/7 worldwide travel insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers up to 100% trip cancellation refund for eligible travel
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Plans are customizable with relevant add-ons
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good customer service and easy sign up according to traveler reviews
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. More affordable plans offer low caps on medical and emergency coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums are on the expensive side relative to comparable competitor plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims may take longer during peak travel seasons

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is one of the leading insurance brands on the market. It offers several plans with key add-ons for travelers.

• This provider underwrites travel insurance policies for a number of other companies in addition to offering its own plans
• Travelers can file claims directly from a smartphone by using the BHTP app

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection  helps travelers make the best of bad situations by simplifying the process of filing a claim down to a simple photo snap and some basic paperwork submitted directly through a dedicated app.

Approved claims are also paid out very rapidly, making it easier to carry through with a trip when luggage has been lost or alternative travel plans need to be made on the fly.

Read our Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

• 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.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for digital nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for affordability

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance  that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for road trips

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the US, but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the US for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about the financial aspect of receiving medical care while traveling , even in the most remote corners of the globe.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away.

Choosing Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the US Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

While coverage varies by policy, common exclusions often include pre-existing medical conditions (unless you have purchased a waiver), accidents caused by high-risk activities if not specifically covered (e.g., skydiving, scuba diving), travel for medical procedures, and events known before purchasing the policy (e.g., traveling during a pandemic). Always read your policy carefully to understand the exclusions.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

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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How to Get the Cheapest Travel Insurance

Learn how to make travel insurance affordable.

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Traveling is often expensive and comes with risks you don’t face at home. If you end up getting hurt, losing your luggage, or getting stuck overnight in the airport, the costs can add up quickly. 

Travel insurance offers a way to protect yourself from unexpected travel costs. It covers or reimburses a wide range of expenses so you don’t have to worry too much about the financial fallout of traveling mishaps. And, the good news is, it can be cheap!

Here’s a closer look at how to get the cheapest travel insurance and what else to consider when picking a policy.

As you shop around for travel insurance, you’ll find some of the best travel insurers have a range of policies and price points that include different levels of coverage types and amounts. Here’s a closer look at the common coverage types and how they work. 

Medical Coverage

A prominent feature of travel insurance is medical coverage that kicks in if you get hurt or sick while traveling. It can cover you up to a max limit that often ranges from $50,000 up to $5 million or more. 

Typically, the emergency accident and sickness coverage comes with a deductible and may also have a copay amount and coinsurance percentage . Insurers cover eligible costs after you pay your deductible and they subtract any copay or coinsurance you pay. 

After you pay your deductible, some travel insurance plans cover 100% of approved medical expenses up to your maximum limit.

Emergency Dental

Emergency dental can help to cover the costs of dental care while traveling. Providers will often outline maximum limits, the type of care that’s covered, and specific situations in which it’s covered. 

For example, Seven Corners’ basic plan includes $750 of coverage for emergency treatment if sound natural teeth are causing pain.  

Trip Cancellation, Delay, or Interruption

Some insurers offer trip cancellation, travel delay, and trip interruption coverage. Each of these coverage types typically stands alone and comes with its own respective maximum limit. 

• Trip cancellation: If you need to cancel a trip because of a covered event and can’t get a refund, this coverage can help you recoup your costs. Covered events may include situations such as you or a family member getting sick, injured, or dying before the trip. 
• Travel delay coverage: If you happen to encounter travel delays that result in the need to pay for reasonable expenses like accommodations and extra meals, travel delay coverage can help to reimburse you for the costs. Restrictions may apply, such as requiring you to be abroad or requiring a minimum delay length of 10 hours.  
• Trip interruption coverage: If you need to end a trip early due to extenuating circumstances (death of a family member, serious damage to your home, etc.), this coverage reimburses you for certain costs you’ll incur. For example, it may provide reimbursement if you have to book an earlier return flight.

Loss of Checked Baggage

Baggage and personal effects coverage reimburses you for lost baggage and personal items that you check with a common carrier. Insurers may provide limits per item and per occurrence. 

Baggage Delay

If your baggage ends up getting delayed, this coverage reimburses reasonable amounts you spend on additional clothing and other necessary personal items. It may also cover the cost of locating and retrieving your luggage. 

Insurers often set a maximum limit on the amount they’ll reimburse and may require your baggage to be lost for a minimum amount of time before you qualify (e.g. 24 hours).

Natural Disaster or Emergency Medical Evacuation 

Many insurers include coverage for emergency evacuations with maximums that are separate from your medical limits. However, companies vary in the amount that’s covered, the situations which warrant a covered evacuation (e.g. medical, non-medical, natural disaster), and who can be evacuated (e.g. policyholder, spouse, children). 

Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D)

Accidental death and dismemberment coverage pays a benefit if you’re involved in an accident while on your trip that results in your death or the loss of one or more limbs. In the event of death, the insurer pays the plan’s benefit to your chosen beneficiary. Insurers will vary in the benefit amount they include for this coverage and their criteria for when a situation qualifies. 

Personal Liability 

If you are sued and found personally liable for injuries to another person or damage to another person’s property—due to an event that happened while on your trip—this coverage could help to cover the costs up to your plan’s limits. Insurers may or may not provide this coverage and will vary in their coverage limits. 

Adventure Activities

Many people participate in adventure activities while they’re on vacation. Adventure activities coverage is often an optional add-on that will ensure your medical coverage will still apply, even if you’re injured due to an adventurous activity like bungee jumping, riding a motor scooter, or parasailing. 

Which travel insurance is cheapest? Here’s a look at quotes from five reputable providers.

The above quotes are based on seven-day trips to Mexico and Canada. We chose the entry-level travel insurance plan for each provider and we requested $50,000 in medical coverage. Where a deductible option was present, we chose $250. Further, we requested quotes for 35- and 60-year-old travelers.

Beyond the medical maximum coverage limit, the insurers offered a variety of coverage types and amounts. For example, accidental death and dismemberment coverage varied from $10,000 up to $50,000 between the providers. Baggage delay, trip delay, trip interruption, and evacuation coverage varied. Some offered the above coverage types while others didn’t, and coverage amounts varied for those that did. So, when comparing travel insurance quotes, it’s essential to review what you get for the price. 

Compare the cheapest travel insurance quotes on SquareMouth .

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, the best thing you can do is shop around. Most providers have a variety of plan tiers. So, figure out the minimum amount of coverage you need, and then browse the plan options to find the best overall value. Be sure to read the fine print. 

It may also be helpful to know that you can adjust your medical coverage and deductible amounts to impact your premium price. Lower coverage limits and higher deductibles will mean a lower premium. However, if you end up filing a claim, high deductibles and low coverage limits could put you in financial trouble.

In the end, if something happens, you might be able to save a significant amount by paying a few more dollars each month on your premium. 

If you’re going to live abroad, you’ll want to research best health insurance for expats instead of travel insurance because travel insurance isn’t designed for long-term coverage that extends beyond emergencies. 

What Is the Cheapest Travel Insurance and Who Offers It?

Of the insurers we compared, International Medical Group Inc. (IMG) offered the cheapest travel insurance plan for 35-year-olds while Trawick International offered the cheapest plan for 60-year-olds. However, most of the quotes were within a few dollars of each other, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare more than just pricing. If you’re older than 60, check out the best travel insurance options for seniors .

Does Travel Insurance Cover 100% of the Trip?

Some travel insurance plans cover 100% (or more) of your trip costs in certain scenarios while others don’t. For example, Generali Global Assistance’s Standard plan covers up to 100% of a trip’s cost if you need to cancel and 125% if it’s interrupted. Seven Corners, on the other hand, lists a $2,500 max limit on trip interruption coverage for its basic plan. You’ll have to carefully review the benefits of the policies you’re considering to see if your trip costs are covered, how much is covered, and under what circumstances the coverage applies. 

How Much Does Travel Insurance Usually Cost?

The cost of travel insurance can vary greatly depending on your age, the company you choose, the coverage types you want, and the coverage amounts you need. Rates can start as low as $7 to $10 for 35-year-olds and around $27 for 60-year-olds, depending on the destination. Find out exactly how much it’ll cost you by getting quotes from a few of the best travel insurance companies of 2023 . 

Traveling is expensive and brings risks you might not anticipate. If you get injured, lose luggage or other property, or have to change your plans on short notice, the costs can start to spike. Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected costs.

The price of insurance varies based on how extensive your coverage is, where you're going and for how long, your age, and how much of a deductible you're willing to pay. Some of the companies with the cheapest rates include IMG Global, Seven Corners, and Trawick International.

Squaremouth. " Co-Insurance Coverage ."

Seven Corners. “ RoundTrip Travel Protection .”

Generali Global Assistance. “ View Travel Insurance Plan Documents ,” Enter date "3/16/2023" and "California." View Page 8.

Seven Corners. “ Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance for Trips Excluding the USA ," Page 9.

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Money blog: Tourist taxes being imposed across Europe (and in UK) - here's how much they all are

An increasing number of cities are either imposing or increasing the cost of tourist taxes on visitors. Read this and our other Weekend Money content below, and let us know your thoughts. We'll be back with live updates on Monday.

Saturday 18 May 2024 17:03, UK

Weekend Money

• How to sell your home without an estate agent
• Tourist taxes to watch out for in popular holiday destinations
• Childcare vouchers, hard work and new skyscrapers: What readers have said this week
• Three things you need to know from Money this week

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• The rise of Michelin starred 'fast food'
• How much do buskers make?
• Basically... What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• Money Problem : My workplace wants to pay us by the minute - what can I do?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

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As we've been reporting in the Money blog over the last few months, an increasing number of cities are either imposing or increasing the cost of tourist taxes on visitors. 

Many say they are preventing damages from overtourism, as well as funding local infrastructure and businesses. 

Here are the latest tourist fees for the most popular spots in Europe...

Tourists visiting Venice for the day will have to pay a €5 entry fee to enter the city between the hours of 8.30am and 4pm.

Meanwhile, those staying overnight in Venice are charged a fee between €1 to €5 within the accommodation price for the first five consecutive nights.

People visiting the Spanish city now have to pay €3.25 if they're staying in official accommodation, up from €2.75.

Manchester 

Visitors must pay £1 per room, per night across 73 hotels. 

The scheme, which has raised more than £2m within a year, is for improvements to attract more tourists.

Tourists must pay €2 per person for every night they stay, although this is only applied for a maximum of seven nights.

The Greek government has introduced a Climate Crisis Resilience Fee to charge tourists anywhere from €0.50 to €10 per room, per night.

The amount depends on the hotel category and the time of year.

Visitors to the Croatian city must pay €2.65 per person, per night throughout April to September. 

However, the fee has been temporarily reduced to €1.86 for the rest of this year.

Different amounts are charged depending on the type of accommodation.

The most expensive charge is €14.95 for a stay in palaces, and €0.65 at one or two-star campsites, per person, per night. 

Those staying in a typical four-star hotel are charged around €8.

Those staying in the Hungarian capital are charged an additional 4% each night, which is calculated based on the price of the room.

Tourists in Berlin must pay 5% of the room price, excluding VAT and service fees.

The tourist tax here has increased from €0.82 to €1.97 per day. 

Prices researched by travel insurance site Quotezone.co.uk

By Ollie Cooper , Money team

Estate agent fees are one of the big expenses in selling a house - but rule changes and the rise of private sale websites have made it more common for people to go it alone.

But how easy is it - and what do you need to know? We spoke to industry experts to find out.

Firstly, what do estate agents do for their money?

An estate agent will typically charge in the range of 1%-3.5% of the sale price. 

That means for the average house price (£284,691 from December) you could pay anywhere from £2,846 to £9,964 in commission fees.

"When you use an estate agent, their fee includes taking professional photographs, advertising your home, conducting property viewings, and negotiating a price on your behalf," says Jack Smithson  from the home ownership site  Better.co.uk .

In addition, an estate agent will compile comprehensive details of your house, including room sizes and descriptions of fixtures and fittings. 

"They will also provide a concise write-up about the local area, highlighting amenities, schools, and transportation links," Jack adds. 

And they'll conduct checks on buyers for you (more on this later).

It sounds like a lot, but...

"Selling your home yourself can be a manageable process with a few key steps," Jack says.

Preparation 

You should begin by thoroughly researching house prices in your area, using websites like Rightmove and Zoopla - but seek free valuations from local estate agents to ensure you have a realistic asking price in mind.

Next, you want to take high-quality photos of your house.

Jack advises using tutorials on YouTube to learn new shooting and editing techniques that can take you to the next level.

You then want to write down what makes your home unique.

"While browsing other listings for inspiration, take it a step further by emphasising what you love about living in your home and the surrounding area," Jack suggests.

"Whether it's the refreshing scent of the coastline or the tranquil sounds of village life, incorporating these details can help potential buyers visualise living there," he advises. 

Like using YouTube for photography tips, you can use free tools such as ChatGPT and Grammarly if you need help with your writing, Jack says. 

Advertising

This is probably the biggest perk of going through an established estate agent - your home is much more likely to be viewed because they will have an established audience and a market. But it's very possible to do it alone. 

"When it comes to advertising your home, explore a variety of avenues including local newspapers and social media," Jack says.

"Consider using websites like Strike, which allow individuals to list their properties for free on platforms like Rightmove," he suggests.

Viewings 

Once you've secured some viewings, you've got the opportunity to make it a bit more personal than estate agents ever could - a real advantage. 

"Explain the reasons behind your decision to purchase the property, highlight its unique features, and share the aspects of your neighbourhood that make it a desirable place to live," Jack says. 

The small things matter when showing people round - so try to take an objective look around before you bring anyone in.

Do the things you'd do normally - make sure it smells nice and it's clean and tidy.

"Lastly, it's worth knowing that you must legally provide potential buyers with a free Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)."

The sale itself

Perhaps the most daunting aspect is the physical exchange of contracts and money. 

An estate agent would typically oversee the process of the initial offer acceptance to the transfer of keys to the new owner.

However, if you go it alone, you'll need to become the central point of contact - bridging the gap between your solicitor or conveyancer and the buyer and their legal representative.

"Once you've accepted an offer on your property, your first task is to draft what's called a memorandum of sale," Jack says.  

This document is a written confirmation of your acceptance of the offer and details the agreed price along with any specific conditions you've both agreed to.

"It's then recommended to engage the services of a solicitor or conveyancer to ensure all legal obligations are met," Jack says (of course, you'll need to do this even if you have an estate agent).

The cost of hiring one typically ranges from a few hundred to over £1,000, depending on factors such as fixed fees, hourly rates, the complexity of the sale and additional costs like property searches or land registry fees.

"In the absence of an estate agent, you'll be responsible for keeping your buyer informed about the progress of the sale. This involves regular updates on the status of legal procedures and any relevant developments," Jack says, before adding that this can actually be a good thing.

"By taking on these responsibilities independently, you'll have greater control over the sale process. However, it will require you to be exceptionally organised, and you'll need to be very good at communicating too."  

Any risks to be aware of?

Rita Patel, legal director at law firm  Browne Jacobson , tells us the biggest risk for people selling their properties without an estate agent is the lack of a vetting and verification process of the potential buyer.

Estate agents will verify the buyer's identity and check the buyer's proof and source of funds - without this, there's no way to assess the buyer is legitimate and can afford to buy.

"Whilst this process is something lawyers can help with, this is often at an additional cost, and you'll need to start from square one if there is an issue with a potential buyer's identification and/or financial eligibility," Rita says. 

More generally, selling without an agent can extend the time it takes to sell. 

"Zoopla suggests this timeframe is normally around 17-34 weeks, but with no one on hand to consistently promote and drive the property sale at all stages, going solo drags this process out," Rita says. 

"Agents can also help mediate any potential breakdowns in communication between the buyer and seller - reducing the likelihood of having to go back to market and start again."

The advantages

Laura Owen-Brown, a PR manager from Gloucestershire, tells us she is set to sell her house without an estate agent in the near future.

"My disappointment with estate agents stems from their lack of familiarity with the properties they attempted to sell me when I was buying my current house," she says. 

"They couldn't tell me about the details that truly matter, like the optimal times for sunlight in the garden, how much council tax I'd pay, what the roof was made of, the places I could walk my dog off lead or the impact of post-football match traffic on Sundays.

"These types of details can shape the experience of living in a house for years and are just as important as the square footage, EPC rating or how many bedrooms a property has," she adds. 

She says the current "transactional" approach to selling houses feels "impersonal and outdated" to her. 

"Yes, I'll have to handle more admin, but the savings in both money and time will make it worthwhile. Liaising with buyers and solicitors directly without a third party slowing everything down will mean I can be in control and have transparency throughout the process, especially during negotiations," she says.

All in all...

As Laura says, it's very much a case of whether you can stomach the admin and are happy to take the risks on background financial checks. 

If you are aware of all the above and willing to take on the organisational burden, you could save yourself a serious chunk of cash. 

The main topics from the Money blog that got you commenting this week were...

Government-funded childcare

• Michel Roux Jr's comments about the future of the restaurant industry 

Nearly 600 new skyscrapers for London

From last Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England have been able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

Those hours can be claimed from September. 

Some readers pointed out the T&Cs... 

This 15 hrs a week is for term time ONLY. So full-time working parents will have to either tell their employer they can't work in school holidays or pro-rata it across the year which is 10 hours a week. Yvonne grandma

Others said it spoke to issues in the wider childcare sector...

Is the government going to give pay rises to nursery staff? They are very low paid staff, and can't get enough staff as it is!! Nurseries may have to close if they don't get staff, so parents won't be able to take up the offer!! What is the government going to do about it? Carol

Chefs or delivery drivers?

Celebrity chef Michel Roux Jr has suggested that restaurants may only open three days per week because young people prefer other jobs - like delivering parcels. 

"Just because I worked 80 hours a week or more doesn't mean the next generation should," he said. 

"Quite the contrary. That is something that we have to address in our industry."

Readers said...

That's because one [job] is on the verge of slave labour and one definitely is slave labour. And the latter I'm referring to is working in a kitchen for a chef.  Realist2024

Spent 35 years working as a chef. Young people nowadays are not willing to do the extra hours (usually unpaid) and work every weekend. Godsends like my generation of chefs did and do.  Bucks

There's been considerable backlash in our comments section after a thinktank said a total of 583 skyscrapers are "queuing up in the pipeline" to be built across central London.

That is more than double the 270 built in the past decade...

"600 new skyscrapers on way for London" while the majority are struggling. When will something serious be done about growing wealth inequality in the UK? A growing economy is useless while the gap between the ultra rich and everyone else increases. Qwerty1

How many unnecessary skyscrapers for London? It's fine, as long as they are not made using steel, glass, concrete or bricks - don't people know there's a climate emergency? Shanghaiwan

Who's paying for it? What about the North? treelectrical

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a respected energy markets researcher has said.

Ahead of next Friday's announcement by Ofgem for the July-September period, Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap will rise again slightly in October, before falling in January next year. 

"A predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years," a spokesperson for Uswitch said. 

Around 100 more prosecutions of sub-postmasters unrelated to the Horizon scandal could be "tainted" , a Sky News investigation has found, as officials worked with now discredited Post Office investigators to secure convictions.

The prosecutions of Post Office staff were led by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between 2001 and 2006.

It is understood these usually involved the cashing in of stolen order books.

The Post Office itself wrongly prosecuted hundreds of sub-postmasters between 1999 and 2015 - based on evidence from the faulty Horizon accounting system.

Read more from our business correspondent Adele Robinson  by clicking  here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end" , according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

The list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

While the combined wealth of the list's 350 wealthiest individuals amounts to more than £795bn - larger than the GDP of Poland - the guide's compiler says time will tell what impact a drop in billionaires could have.

"This year's Sunday Times Rich List suggests Britain's billionaire boom has come to an end," Robert Watts said.

Read on here ...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

The Body Shop’s administrators are to launch an auction of the chain after concluding that an alternative restructuring of one of Britain’s best-known high street retailers was not viable.

Sky News has learnt that FRP Advisory, which has been overseeing the collapsed business since January, is to begin formally sounding out potential buyers in the coming weeks.

The move raises the prospect of new owners taking control of The Body Shop, which was founded nearly half a century ago.

Read more here ...

The UK's mega rich are dwindling - in a sign Britain's "billionaire boom has come to an end", according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.

Published today, the list reveals the largest fall in billionaires in the guide's history - from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year.

"Many of our home-grown entrepreneurs have seen their fortunes fall and some of the global super rich who came here are moving away."

Top of the list is British-Indian businessman Gopi Hinduja and his family, whose wealth of £37.2bn is the largest fortune in the ranking's history.

But other familiar names in the list saw their riches fall, with Sir Richard Branson's total dropping by £2.4bn, which is back to his 2000 level.

Last year's top climber Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who bought a stake in Manchester United this year, fell two positions with a decline of £6.1bn.

Euan Blair, Tony Blair's eldest son, made the list for the first time, as did Sir Lewis Hamilton.

It comes as the UK continues to deal with a cost-of-living crisis, with new figures this week revealing a record 3.1 million food bank parcels were distributed over the course of a year.

The top 10:

• Gopi Hinduja - £37.2bn
• Sir Leonard Blavtanik - £29.2bn
• David and Simon Reuben and family - £24.9bn
• Sir Jim Ratcliffe - £23.5bn
• Sir James Dyson and family - £20.8bn
• Barnaby and Merlin Swire and family - £17.2bn
• Idan Ofer - £14.9bn
• Lakshmi Mittal and family - £14.9bn
• Guy, George, Alannah and Galen Weston and family - £14.4bn
• John Fredriksen and family - £12.8bn

A group of social media influencers have been charged in relation to promoting an unauthorised investment scheme.

The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) original cast member Lauren Goodger, 37, former Love Island star Biggs Chris, 32, and Celebrity Big Brother winner Scott Timlin, 36, also known as Scotty T, are among seven TV personalities alleged to have been paid to promote the scheme to their combined 4.5 million Instagram followers.

The others charged by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) include former Love Islanders Rebecca Gormley, 26, Jamie Clayton, 32, and Eva Zapico, 25 and TOWIE member Yazmin Oukhellou, 30.

The UK's financial watchdog brought the charges in a crackdown on "finfluencers" who use their online platforms to offer advice and information on various financial topics.

It alleges that between 19 May 2018 and 13 April 2021 Emmanuel Nwanze, 30, and Holly Thompson, 33, used an Instagram account to provide advice on buying and selling investments known as contracts for difference (CFDs) when they were not authorised to do so.

The watchdog said CFDs were high-risk investments used to bet on the price of an asset, in this case the price of foreign currencies.

It previously warned that 80% of customers lost money when investing in CDFs.

Mr Nwanze has been charged with running the scheme. He faces one count of breaching the general prohibition of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, and one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

Ms Thompson, Mr Chris, Mr Clayton, Ms Goodger, Ms Gormley, Ms Oukhellou, Mr Timlin and Ms Zapico each face one count of unauthorised communications of financial promotions.

All nine will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June.

The FCA asked anyone who believed they had sustained a loss due to the scheme to contact its consumer contact centre.

A hotel part-owned by Gary Neville and other ex-Manchester United legends has been named one of the best places to work in hospitality. 

Each year, The Caterer releases its top 30 best places for employees in the sector, with the top six featuring some familiar names.

The list is compiled via anonymous employee survey - with no input from managers or owners. 

Hotel Football, the only hotel with a rooftop five-a-side pitch, was among the top six venues selected by employees across the UK. 

The hotel's benefits package was particularly well-praised by those who work there - given that it "prioritises the financial wellbeing of employees during the cost of living challenge".

Management at the hotel, which is situated next to Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium, was also praised for enhanced maternity, paternity, parental and adoption leave policies and a strong belief in diversity and inclusion. 

The other five to make up the top six are The Biltmore in Mayfair, Cycas Hospitality (which has 18 locations across the UK), Dalata (which boasts some 1,000 employees), Gleneagles Hotel in Edinburgh and Nobu Hotel in Shoreditch, London. 

The energy price cap is set to fall by about 7% in July, a leading thinktank has said. 

Cornwall Insights said: "For a typical dual fuel household, we predict the July price cap to be £1,574 per annum" - a drop from £1,690.

Looking further ahead, it forecasted the cap to rise again slightly in October, before falling again in January next year. 

Reacting to the news, Uswitch said the predicted drop was "clearly good news". 

"The future still remains uncertain, and with the price cap changing every three months – currently expected to rise in October before falling slightly in January –  it's crucial not to be complacent," Richard Neudegg, director of regulation, said. 

However, "a predicted 7% drop in energy prices in July is clearly good news, with the price cap looking likely to hit its lowest level in over two years", he said. 

He also urged  households who want to lock in rates for price certainty to run a comparison to see what energy tariffs are available to them.

"There are many 12-month fixed tariffs available at rates cheaper than the current price cap, and even some that are 2% below these new predicted July rates," he said. 

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Best travel insurance plans for 2024: a unique and comprehensive list for travelers from international citizens insurance.

Including the Best Plans for Seniors, Global Nomads, Visitors to the USA, Pets, Adventure Sports Addicts and More

BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 2, 2024 / International Citizens Insurance, a leading international insurance broker, has announced the best travel insurance plans for 2024 summer travel. As the cost of airfare and hotels continues to rise along with the increase in flight delays and cruise cancellations, this list could not have come at a better time for travelers looking to protect their travel plans and their finances.

"This summer's travel season promises a high level of demand, increasing costs, and a strong potential for travel disruptions due to political unrest, weather, and other factors," said Joe Cronin, President of International Citizens Insurance. "Our clients want travel insurance they can trust to help them if they suffer a cancellation, a medical emergency, lost luggage, a natural disaster, or have to change plans due to unforeseen events. With this list, they will be able to find the best overall travel insurers as well as the right plans for their individual needs."

International Citizens Insurance judged each company and plan on six key criteria: the user-friendliness of their site, the ease of policy purchase, the number of countries plans are offered in, how extensive the benefits are, the ease of making a claim and the quality of the company's customer service. The most trusted insurers include WorldTrips , who made history as one of the first insurers to offer plans for purchase over the internet; GeoBlue Travel Insurance , which supports seniors with coverage for people up to 84 years old; and Trawick International, which offers coverage for over 500 adventure sports activities.

To help customers find the best insurance for their specific needs, International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best insurance for several use cases, including Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, travel medical plans, and insurance with coverage for pets. International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best plans for clients with special needs, including seniors, missionaries and volunteers, U.S. citizens abroad, and digital nomads.

In today's unpredictable world, travel insurance has become the most essential accessory for any international traveler. Travelers want trip cancellation insurance to protect their trip and travel medical insurance plans to protect their health. But with so many companies out there, which ones can you trust?

Learn more about the best travel insurance companies at https://www.internationalinsurance.com/travel-insurance/best-companies.php .

About International Citizens Insurance

International Citizens Insurance is the insurance division of International Citizens Group. We provide educational content, reviews, and unique comparison engines that enable travelers and expatriates to research, quote, compare, and purchase global life, travel, and international health insurance from various carriers.

Contact Information

Joe Cronin President [email protected] 617-500-6738

Andrew Blomberg Vice President, Global Group Benefits [email protected] (339) 221-5190

SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance

View the original press release on newswire.com.

FinanceBuzz

8 Reasons It’s Worth It To Buy Travel Insurance (And 6 Times To Skip It)

Posted: July 12, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Life is full of unexpected events and complications, and that doesn’t stop just because you’re traveling. If anything, travel may have even more surprises than your day-to-day life at home.

Travel insurance can help you avoid wasting money if you have to cancel a trip due to illness, need medical coverage while you’re traveling, or send you home for medical reasons.

However, it may not always be necessary and can sometimes be a waste of money. Keep reading to learn when you should and shouldn’t opt for travel insurance.

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Safety net for international travel

The number one reason people buy travel insurance is to cover an expensive trip. And if you’re traveling overseas, chances are your travels will cost a lot of money.

In addition, there are potential complications when it comes to international travel, from losing luggage during connecting flights, missed or canceled flights, sickness, and more.

And if something catastrophic happens in a foreign country, travel insurance provides evacuation so you can get home safely.

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Medical coverage

Getting sick or injured is unpleasant enough when you’re in the comfort of your home, but it’s a new beast entirely when you’re abroad.

Generally, you can expect basic medical expenses to be covered through your travel plan, often including dental. Medicare will not cover medical expenses in a foreign country. If you’re traveling overseas, travel insurance for potential medical costs is worthwhile.

Cover rental car mishaps

Renting a car is a great way to get around when traveling because you can explore a place on your own. Using taxis or ride-share services may cost more money. However, even the best drivers make mistakes, and no one can protect themselves from reckless drivers.

Your U.S. car insurance won’t cover you when driving in a foreign country. So choosing the car-rental insurance option when you buy travel insurance may be a good move.

Be aware that most travel insurance rental-car plans cover collisions and may not cover medical expenses, damages to other cars or property, or personal property damage or loss.

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Pre-existing conditions often aren’t covered

Unfortunately, as with many health insurance plans, travel insurance often won’t cover pre-existing conditions. Travel health insurance is usually meant for unforeseen illnesses or injuries instead of complications due to an existing medical issue.

Even travel insurance companies that cover pre-existing issues often only cover physical maladies and exclude mental conditions and typical pregnancy-related symptoms and complications.

Protect lost luggage

A big fear for travelers is losing their luggage, either having it not arrive at the destination or stolen during their trip. Most airlines will offer reimbursement for luggage they lose, but it can take quite a while for this to process.

Travel insurance will cover the cost of replacing your clothing and other items while you wait for your luggage to be located and can also cover theft and damage.

Cover valuable items and gear

You should consider buying travel insurance if you’re traveling with valuables, including expensive jewelry, art, or even pricey sporting or adventure gear.

You’ll need to talk to the insurance agency specifically about covering your valuables, as they may need to be insured separately. Depending on your homeowners insurance policy, your jewelry may be covered even when you travel.

Sporting goods, including golf clubs, will not be covered by your homeowners insurance if you’re traveling, so you will need travel insurance to replace them if they’re lost, damaged, or stolen.

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Emergencies happen

While we do our best to prepare for the worst-case scenario, we can’t stop life from happening. Things like medical emergencies, a death in the family, or other catastrophes can halt your travel plans.

If you have travel insurance, rescheduling or cancellation fees will be covered, allowing you to deal with the emergency at your own pace. You won’t have to worry about losing the money spent on the trip and subsequent fees.

Natural disaster coverage

Are you planning a fall trip to the Gulf Coast or Florida? Consider your travel destination and the time of year you're going.

If you’re visiting someplace prone to natural disasters, especially seasonal occurrences like tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and such, travel insurance can help you recoup your money should these events interrupt your travel plans.

Similarly, if a natural disaster occurs during your trip, often, insurance will pay to move you to a more secure location.

Extreme adventures may not be covered

Your insurance will most likely cover typical travel-related injuries but don't expect your medical bills to be covered if your itinerary involves extreme adventures or dangerous exploits.

Surfing, sailing, kayaking, bungee jumping, scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, and other extreme sports do not fall into everyday illnesses or injuries. For these activities, consider getting a specific plan for adventure activities.

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Shaky travel companies

If you booked your trip through a travel company and it goes bankrupt, travel insurance may provide a safety net to ensure you get your money back.

Airlines, cruise ships, travel companies, and other travel-related businesses suffered during the pandemic, and many may not be on solid financial ground yet.

This may not be covered in a basic insurance plan, so make sure your agent adds financial default coverage if you are concerned about the health of your travel provider. 

In the situation any company or organization closes or is otherwise inoperable during your trip, you’ll be covered.

Now let’s look at times you may not need travel insurance.

Your credit card offers travel protections

Before purchasing travel insurance, consider which credit card you have. Many of the top credit cards  offer travel protections.

Some protections you may already have include lost luggage, rental car insurance, trip delay, and trip interruption or cancellation.

Credit card programs often don’t cover medical or other interruptions, so consider your priorities before choosing this option.

You have a domestic trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S. and its territories, travel insurance may not be necessary. For example, you won’t need medical coverage as your health insurance should be honored nationwide.

Domestic travel is also usually much less expensive. If you’re taking a cheap, last-minute, or nonstop flight and staying at an inexpensive hotel or rental, the cost of travel insurance may not be worth it.

One exception might be a family trip to Disney World. The estimate for a trip for a family of four in 2023 is more than $6,000, so travel insurance might be money well spent in this case.

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Don’t add expense to cheap trips

Not all travel is planned. Whether traveling for work, a family emergency, or just a last-minute vacation, you likely don’t need insurance in these circumstances. Odds are, you’re packing light, and both your flight and hotel are relatively inexpensive.

In these scenarios, the things insurance covers won’t be relevant, including baggage loss, flight cancellations, hotel issues, and so on. 

Not only will these costs likely be minimal, but they can be disputed with your airline or hotel, although it may take a little while to get your money back.

The airline has a flexible rebooking policy

If you’re buying travel insurance to cover the cost of rescheduling a flight, you’re better off purchasing a refundable ticket at a higher price. And some airlines have more flexible policies now.

Many airlines allow last-minute ticket changes and will even help you reschedule your flight within a specific timeframe. The timeframe and policy vary by airline, and you may be subject to a nominal cancellation or rebooking fee, but it will be significantly less than insurance.

Insurance will not cover political unrest

One emergency situation insurance probably won’t cover is war or political unrest. If you’re visiting a location with political tensions and your trip is canceled as a result, don’t expect your insurance to cover the costs.

Insurance companies generally follow the travel advisories the U.S. State Department issued for medical and political situations.

Similarly, insurance won't cover these costs if you have to leave your trip early for safety concerns. Consider your destination's political environment before booking your travel or buying insurance.

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Your hotel may cover cancellations

Many hotel cancellation policies have tiers depending on the booking you make. For example, some may have free cancellation within a specific period, while others charge different rates for rooms booked as non-refundable or partially refundable.

If your sole reason for purchasing insurance is hotel flexibility, consult with the hotel before you book. They may have a policy as flexible as your insurance or can work with you should something unexpected arise.

Penalty-free cancellations for major hotels tend to be around 24-48 hours prior to arrival.

Bottom line

Travel insurance may be pricey, but it’s a lifesaver in many situations. However, in others, it’s overkill and a waste of money.

Every travel situation is different, so consider your specific needs when purchasing. And, if you want more money to cover your insurance, consider these ways to make extra cash for travel funds.

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