long term pet travel insurance

Pet Travel Insurance: Everything You Need To Know

Traveling with pets by your side can be great, but it does make planning trips a bit more complicated. Between finding pet-friendly locations , choosing the best method of transportation, and packing all your essential pet supplies, there’s a lot to think about every step of the way — including your pet’s safety, first and foremost .

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So many things can go wrong when traveling, that you might find yourself in need of unexpected veterinary care. In these cases, insurance coverage can be a literal life-saver, but can you use pet insurance anywhere ? Or do you need pet travel insurance ? And what’s the difference, anyway?

Keep reading to learn how pet insurance works when traveling , or use the links below to jump to the answers you’re looking for:

What is pet travel insurance?

Can you use pet insurance anywhere, how does pet insurance work when traveling.

• Does pet insurance cover travel cancellations for sick pets?

How much is pet insurance for a flight?

Key takeaways.

Pet travel insurance covers the loss, injury, or death of your pet during a trip from Point A to Point B. Otherwise known as pet transport or pet taxi insurance, these policies provide liability coverage to companies that offer transportation, shipping, and delivery services for pet traveling without their owners.

If you are sending a pet by land, air, or sea, there are certain health risks that make pet travel insurance well worth your consideration. Ground transportation is more favorable for pet travel safety than traveling as air cargo, but the common issues that occur in either setting include:

• Motion sickness
• Increased stress levels
• Unexpected injuries
• Heat stroke
• Hypothermia

When making transportation arrangements for your pet, ensure that your carrier company is licensed and provides a minimum amount of pet travel insurance — typically from $100 to $500 per pet . Or, if you’re entrusting your pet directly to an airline, know that they all have different pet policies. The results of one legal case found that some may limit their liability to that of checked baggage , currently set at $3,330 for domestic flights.

Note that these hypothetical figures represent the maximum amount you’d receive for a pet injury or death mid-travel. Travel insurance doesn’t cover sick pets or natural illnesses that may occur in transit. Nor do they these policies cover ongoing health problems caused by an incident mid-transport that develop later on.

For coverage that’s comprehensive and long-lasting, you’d need a traditional pet insurance plan .

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

It depends on the provider. While all pet insurance companies allow you to use any licensed veterinarian, emergency hospital, or specialist in the United States, restrictions on where you can use pet insurance vary at the international level. Here are some examples from top providers:

• Trupanion , Figo , and Pets Best Insurance cover pets in the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada
• Fetch , Healthy Paws , and Pet Partners cover pets in the US and Canada
• Embrace Pet Insurance provides pet insurance for traveling pets if they reside in the US for at least 51% of the year
• Nationwide covers pets worldwide.
• Bivvy , Companion Protect, and MetLife Pet Insurance cover pets in the US only

For pets traveling abroad, covered vet fees may differ depending on the length of stay in the foreign country.

If your pet insurance covers travel, then you can get reimbursed for veterinary bills while you’re away from home, so long as the service does not relate to a pre-existing condition . Unless your provider offers Vet Direct Pay, the policy will work the same overseas or out-of-state:

• Pay for veterinary care out-of-pocket
• File a claim for covered services
• Get paid out at the policy’s reimbursement rate (pending you’ve met your deductible and haven’t hit your annual limit)

Some providers, like ASPCA Pet Insurance , offer additional travel benefits for pets that may include:

• Lost or stolen pet passport or health certificate coverage
• Quarantine kennel fee coverage
• Advertising and reward coverage in case your pet gets stolen or lost.
• Access to 24/7 pet help hotline

Many insurance companies offer supplementary pet wellness plans that could help reimburse expenses incurred to get a pet passport , including the cost of a vet exam , microchipping, and required vaccinations for dogs and cats.

Does pet insurance cover travel cancellations due to sick pets?

Some pet insurance companies, such as Pet Plan and Trupanion, reimburse travel cancellations due to sick pets . The cancellation coverage often pays for your travel expenses in case you have to abruptly cancel your trip or cut it short because you had to take your pet to the emergency room .

Only businesses can buy insurance for travelling pets, so if you want to get pet insurance for a flight , you’d have to enroll in a traditional pet insurance policy and pay the price of a monthly premium . The cost of pet insurance averages $49.51 for dogs and $28.48 for cats, but this number could go up or down depending on where you live and the coverage you choose.

Many people get pet travel insurance prior to their cat or dog flying unattended, then cancel the policy upon safe arrival. If you plan on only getting pet insurance for a flight, you’d need to research the cancellation policy to see whether you’d incur any fees or receive a prorated refund for the monthly premium.

However, if you travel with your four-legged companion often, you may want to keep your pet insurance for flights in the future . By canceling and re-enrolling for each flight, you risk the any pre-existing condition your pet may develop being excluded from your next policy. If anything related to that health issue were to happen while traveling — such as the stress of flying worsening a pet’s heart condition — it would be ineligible for insurance coverage.

Keep in mind that you’ll likely need a pet health certificate issued within 10 days of your trip for pets flying abroad, which will require a visit to your vet. If you want to be reimbursed for exam fees and services your pet may need for international travel, be sure to enroll well in advance, since the policy won’t go into effect until after the mandatory waiting period has passed.

If you’re looking for pet insurance coverage that will provide protection for your pet while you’re home or away, Pawlicy Advisor makes it easy to read the fine print, compare plans, and find the features that matter the most for your preferences. Click on the button below to get started today.

• Pet travel insurance covers expenses relating to issues or accidents when pets are traveling. The benefits of this type of insurance typically extend only from airport to airport. If you are looking for ongoing coverage, you should consider traditional pet health insurance.
• Some pet insurance providers also cover pets traveling both domestically and internationally. Most insurance companies allow pet parents to use any licensed veterinarian throughout the US, but some of them also provide coverage when your pet is traveling abroad.
• It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you are shopping for pet insurance, but Pawlicy Advisor can help keep you organized when comparing different options and make sure you choose the best plan for your pet and your budget.

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.css-3sl4ml{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-3sl4ml:hover{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;} Kari Steere .css-aqd080{font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;}@media screen and (min-width: 992px){.css-aqd080{font-size:21px;}} Licensed Insurance Producer - Pawlicy Advisor

Kari Steere is a licensed P&C insurance agent in all 50 states and has focused entirely on pet insurance since 2019. As an animal lover with a rescued Terrier named Barry, when she's not helping pet owners find the perfect plan on Pawlicy Advisor , she runs a ranch in Oregon and rehabilitates any animals that come across her path.

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Pet Travel Insurance vs. Pet Health Insurance: What’s the Difference?

Hi PetRelocation! I am curious if pet insurance is recommended/commonplace during the import/export process. Can you recommend good coverage? Are there any websites out there with more details? Thank you! -Laura

Pet Travel Insurance

On the other hand, pet travel insurance is specifically designed to cover risks associated with traveling with your pet. This can include coverage for costs incurred due to travel delays, cancellations, lost or delayed pets, and even some medical emergencies that occur while your pet is in transit. For example, pet travel insurance could cover if your pet is scheduled to fly from San Francisco to London on United Airlines Flight UA 733, departing at 13:00 on 11 June 2023 and arriving at 16:45 on the same day the costs if there are any unexpected delays or cancellations.

However, it's important to note that pet travel insurance typically only covers incidents related to the travel itself and not broader health issues your pet may experience. It's also usually a one-time or short-term coverage for the travel duration.

Pet Health Insurance

Pet health insurance typically covers veterinary costs associated with your pet's illness or injury. This can include everything from routine check-ups and vaccinations to surgery and other medical treatments. It's more of a long-term coverage that ensures your pet's health needs are cared for, no matter where you are.

Most pet health insurance plans offer various coverage levels, from basic plans that cover accidents and illness to comprehensive plans that include wellness care. However, pet health insurance does not cover the costs related to travel or potential issues that may arise during travel, such as lost or delayed pets.

Use these as starting points for further pet health insurance research, do a few Google searches, talk to your vet, and check out Pet Insurance Review , which offers ratings and client reviews for pet insurance programs.  

Choosing the Right Insurance for Your Pet

When choosing the right insurance for your pet, it's essential to consider your pet's specific needs, travel plans, and what each type of insurance covers. If you frequently travel with your pet or plan a significant relocation, pet travel insurance might be worth considering. However, pet health insurance is the go-to option for overall health coverage.

Remember, it's crucial to read the fine print of any insurance policy to understand what is and isn't covered. Always consult with your pet relocation consultant or insurance provider to ensure you make the best decision for your pet.  Here are a few of the frequently asked questions:

• How much does pet travel insurance cost?  The cost of pet travel insurance varies depending on the company, the type of coverage you choose, and the age and health of your pet. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 monthly for pet travel insurance.
• How much does pet health insurance cost?  The cost of pet health insurance also varies depending on the company, the type of coverage you choose, and the age and health of your pet. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 monthly for pet health insurance.
• What are some of the benefits of pet travel insurance?  Pet travel insurance can help you cover the costs of unexpected medical care, lost or stolen luggage, and other travel-related expenses. This can give you peace of mind when you're traveling with your pet.
• What are some of the benefits of pet health insurance?  Pet health insurance can help you cover the costs of routine and unexpected veterinary care. This can save you money in the long run, especially if your pet has a pre-existing condition.

Need help arranging your pet shipping logistics for an upcoming move? Contact us to speak to a pet travel consultant.

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Getting solid health insurance for your fuzzy companion doesn’t quite cover everything that might happen during its lifetime. There are situations that warrant a different kind of approach – a different insurance policy. Holidays and traveling are some of them.

Of course, this should come hardly as a surprise; after all, we humans get both health and travel insurance, so why shouldn’t our pets too?

Trupanion has a straightforward plan

Read full review

Fetch has a stellar reputation among pet insurance companies.

Different kinds of un-furr-tunate events may occur while we’re abroad with our beloved furry friends. Proper travel insurance should be put in place to help us deal with the financial baggage of such situations, which would only worsen our emotional turmoil.

But this is all rather easy to deduce. What’s more important than enrolling in pet travel insurance is to know how exactly this type of insurance works , what it covers, and which insurance companies out there are the best to go for.

No need to panic – we have an answer to all of these questions.

What does Pet Travel Insurance Cover?

Pet travel insurance covers the expenses for the most common types of mishaps that can take place while you and your companion are abroad. This includes a variety of scenarios. The number of these scenarios also depends on the particular insurance provider and the policy or plan you agreed on.

Still, there are some general types of costs that almost all travel insurance providers cover.

In case your pet gets ill or injured while abroad, the pet travel insurance will cover the veterinary fees exactly like the regular pet health insurance covers vet expenses in your home country.

One thing to note, though, is that the main prerequisite for the insurance cover is that any injury or illness should be sustained abroad. No older injuries, lingering or pre-existing conditions will be covered.

Advertising and Reward for Theft or Loss

In the event that your pet gets lost or stolen, the insurance provider would cover for the advertising and reward in order to help retrieve your pet. However, the reward can only be claimed by a third party, not by you or any other person traveling with you and your pet.

Holiday Cancellation

The pet insurance provider will fully cover the costs for the cancellation of your holiday if your pet is in urgent need of medical treatment, thus preventing you from traveling. The same applies if your pet dies before the scheduled trip, leading to its cancellation.

Emergency Repatriation

If your pet gets ill or injured abroad and has to be immediately brought back to your home country, travel expenses will be covered by the insurance provider.

Similarly, if a pet’s illness leads to a delay of your departure, the insurer will cover all expenses related to accommodation.

Loss of Passport

In case you lose your pet’s passport or healthcare certificate while abroad, the travel insurance can cover the costs for a passport or certificate replacement.

Quarantine Expenses

Suppose your pet develops a condition that would warrant quarantining while abroad, and it’s unable to travel back to your home country. In that case, the travel insurance company will cover expenses related to the quarantine.

Still, as this can be pretty pricey, most companies set a limit of about $2,000. You will have to cover anything above that amount by yourself.

Tapeworm Treatments

If your pet requires repeated tapeworm treatments and your return to your home country is, for some reason, delayed, the insurance provider can cover the costs of these treatments until you get back.

These are the main types of costs covered by travel insurance companies. Yet, not all companies do an equally good job at covering them for a reasonable price. Some stand out.

Pet Travel Insurance Companies: Rating

Out of the numerous pet insurance companies that offer travel insurance for pets (and the less numerous exclusively dealing with travel insurance), we selected the three most popular ones:

An already renowned pet insurance provider, Trupanion does not offer a separate travel insurance plan. It already has one incorporated into the regular pet insurance policies it offers.

Admittedly, it only covers your pet for traveling around the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, but considering how you don’t actually have to pay separately, this is as good a deal as they come.

Pet Travel Insurance

A company specifically intended for travel insurance, approved by the IPATA , Pet Travel Insurance is simple and straightforward – you provide basic information on your pet and get a quote. It covers all that needs to be covered for a reasonable price.

Fetch by the Dodo

Fetch is another regular pet insurance provider which additionally offers travel insurance – both as part of its regular insurance packages and separately. Backed by the Pet Travel international company, it can be quite pricey with its quotes but truly allows you to cover all of your pet’s needs while abroad.

Comparing Pet Travel Insurance Plans

All of these insurance policy providers offer completely different coverage plans, so it makes sense that each would cater to a different kind of pet owner. Pet owners looking for a practical option that don’t typically travel outside the US should definitely go for Trupanion, as that’s an overall pet insurance company.

Those preparing for trips outside the US border should contact Pet Travel Insurance. In contrast, those who’re unsure or are looking at several consecutive trips should make up a good travel insurance plan at Fetch.

But what kind of policy options are there?

Pet Travel Insurance Policy

There are two types of insurance policies you could go for: single trip and multi-trip.

• Single trip policies are constructed in a way to cover your pet for the duration of a single trip with a previously set number of days.
• Multi-trip policies are made to cover your pet for several trips intended for the coming period.

Most insurers would cover for up to around 90 days per year, but this isn’t fixed. Some don’t limit the number of days, but the number of travels. Based on this, decide whether the single or multi-trip option is suitable for you.

How Pet Travel Insurance Works

It’s quite simple, really; first, you check if your basic pet health insurance covers travel expenses. If not, you find a potential provider, inform them about your pet’s breed, age, sex, and country of residence and ask for a quote.

Once you accept the quote and make an insurance plan, you set it in motion – you travel abroad, and if any undesired event takes place, the travel insurance covers the (majority of the) financial costs for it. That’s it!

Now that we’ve seen and reviewed all of the offered options, we believe that the best one to recommend would be Trupanion.

While not covering trips worldwide, it is, by and large, the most financially affordable option, as you don’t actually have to pay anything extra to get it – it’s already included in the normal pet health insurance.

As long as your pet travels around the US, Canada, or Puerto Rico – it gets the full treatment. You can rest assured that whatever happens, wherever you are, you will be as financially supported by Trupanion as when you’re at home .

Ralph Davidson

Related topics:, nom nom review, pawp pet insurance review, pet care online reviews.

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Travel Insurance For Pets: Peace Of Mind When Traveling With Pets

Heading abroad with your furry friend this summer? Discover the benefits of pet travel insurance.

Going on holiday or relocating overseas with your pet can make travel a true adventure. But there’s no need to worry about your pet’s health care while overseas if you have pet travel insurance. Your pet will continue to get expert care while you travel together without forcing you to drain your bank account to pay vet fees. 

Table of contents

What is pet travel insurance, what does pet travel insurance cover, pet insurance for longer trips abroad, is pet travel insurance a legal requirement, what affects the cost, what should i look for in a pet travel insurance policy, does pet travel insurance cover illness, should i get a single-trip or multi-trip pet travel insurance policy, pet travel insurance helps you have a relaxing trip with your furry friend, always know where your dog is.

Follow every step in real-time with unlimited range. Get alerts if they wander too far. Keep them happy & healthy with Wellness Monitoring. And let others – like walkers or sitters – keep an eye on your dog too.

Pet travel insurance provides financial protection if your pet is accidentally injured, goes missing, or is quarantined while they are traveling abroad with you.

You can’t buy stand-alone pet travel insurance. It’s usually included in your existing pet insurance policy, or purchased as an extra add-on to your policy. Check out our full guide on how pet insurance works .

It’s no fun leaving your dog or cat in the care of a pet-sitter or at a kennel when you go on holiday. But travelling can be full of surprises, especially if you are traveling abroad or relocating to a new home overseas with your four-legged friend.

Pet travel insurance can give you reassurance that your beloved pet will get the professional, urgent treatment they need if an accident or injury occurs when you are away from home.

Imagine you are relaxing by the pool at your seaside villa, while your dog is exploring the garden. Suddenly, your pup is yelping in pain. Is it a bee sting? Did they eat a toxic plant ? Should you rush to the local veterinarian?

With pet travel insurance, you won’t need to think twice about getting your pet the emergency care they need . You know that your pet travel insurance policy will help cover the vet fees, even during your extended overseas travel or holiday.

Most pet travel insurance policies cover for:

• Overseas vet fees: Cover may help with the cost of treatment for illness or injury to your pet while you are traveling abroad.
• Quarantine costs: If your pet becomes ill and must be quarantined before returning home, pet travel insurance may help cover this cost, which can be significant.
• Loss of travel documents: If you lose or misplace your pet’s travel documents, your policy may help cover the costs to replace them.
• Emergency expenses abroad: If your pet goes missing or is lost, your pet insurance policy may help cover these expenses and other fees, such as transportation to get your pet home after an illness or injury.
• Trip cancellation: Your pet insurance policy may reimburse some costs if you must cancel or shorten your holiday due to your pet’s illness or injury that occurs while you are away from home.

Every dog insurance or cat insurance policy is different. The type of cover offered by various insurance companies can vary. It is very important to read your policy documents carefully, including the fine print. So there will be no surprises when you need to use the policy’s benefits or make a claim while traveling.

Most pet travel insurance policies are in effect for set time periods , usually about 90 days per year. If you need extended coverage, talk to your insurance provider to learn which options are available.

Pet travel insurance is not a legal requirement when taking your pet abroad on holiday, or when relocating to a different country. However, most pet parents enjoy the tremendous peace of mind that comes with knowing that their pet can receive the care they need if an accident or illness happens during travel.

You can no longer use pet passports issued in Great Britain to travel to the European Union or Northern Ireland. However, you will need an Animal Health Certificate when traveling, which can be obtained from your veterinarian. 

Even though pet travel insurance and a pet passport are not a legal requirement for travel, you want to avoid having to put your pet in quarantine when traveling between two countries. Quarantines are enforced because your pet may be carrying a disease, and authorities want to keep animal diseases out of the country you are visiting. Quarantine periods may be many days or weeks long and you must pay to have your pet quarantined.

To avoid quarantine completely, you can show that your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations by participating in the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) . This allows pet dogs, cats, and ferrets who meet certain requirements to be taken in and out of participating countries, including the UK, without having to be quarantined.

To be eligible for the Pet Travel Scheme, your pet needs:

• a microchip
• an up-to-date rabies vaccination
• an Animal Health Certificate and
• to have undergone flea, tick, and tapeworm treatment with an official certificate as proof.

Talk to your veterinarian about meeting the requirements for the Pet Travel Scheme. In most cases vaccinations need to be given at least 21 days prior to the start of your trip, so plan accordingly.

Pet travel insurance may not cost you anything extra – it may already be included in your pet health insurance policy . Read your pet health insurance policy carefully to see if pet travel cover is included.

If you policy does not cover pet travel, you may be able to buy this as an extra add-on to your pet health insurance policy. 

Several factors can affect the cost of your pet travel insurance.

• Some dog breeds may cost more to insure, especially if they are prone to genetic medical conditions.
• Older pets may be more expensive to cover, or your insurer may not provide any type of cover for them due to their age. 
• Pets with pre-existing conditions may not be covered for their medical condition. 

You should always compare pet travel insurance policies carefully to make sure they fit with your cover requirements and your budget. 

It’s important to know exactly what’s in your pet travel insurance policy. You want it to cover your pet’s needs and fit with your travel plans. Here are some items to check within your policy:

• Which countries are included in the cover?
• What is the maximum amount of money that can be paid out for a claim?
• What type of situations are covered, such as accidents or illnesses?
• What age will the policy cover your pet up to? 
• Are pre-existing conditions excluded? Are there other exclusions?
• How many weeks or months will the cover last when you are abroad?

If you already have pet health insurance for your furball, you may already have cover for some of these situations. Read your policy carefully before you head off on your holiday.

Most pet travel insurance policies cover medical treatment for illnesses that your pet may contract while you are traveling. But some situations, such as if your pet becomes ill before you depart, may not be covered if you decide to cancel your trip. Each policy is different, so make sure you know exactly what is covered before you buy the policy.

If you and your furry friend are frequent travelers, you might investigate buying multi-trip pet cover. This may be a cost-effective alternative to buying a one-time policy for each trip, especially if they occur within a short time period. 

You want to enjoy your holiday with your pet, and spend money on enjoyment, not veterinary bills should an accident occur. Take away one source of worry by buying pet travel insurance before you leave on holiday. You’ll get to enjoy the company of your dog or cat without stressing about unexpected bills.

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PROTECTAPET PET TRAVEL COVER - EUROPEAN AND WORLDWIDE PROTECTION FOR YOUR PET WHEREVER YOU GO

Protectapet pet travel plan, pet travel anywhere .

PROTECTAPET, are the only Pet Healthcare Company that can offer you this unique pet travel cover.  This plan has been designed by the Protectapet team to provide pet lovers and owners with the facility to protect their valuable pets whilst on holiday, in transit, in quarantine or whilst travelling by land, sea or air.  It is the only one of it's kind in the world! (That we know of).

DOES MY PET NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

When our pets are taken away from us and put into the care of transport companies or individuals we do not know or have never used before, we place our trust in those companies.  We hope that they will keep our pets safe but we still worry about them.  When moving country or emigrating to another country, our pets can be out of contact for many days.  If anything were to happen, whether your pet became ill or had an injury or accident, we would all want immediate action taken to alleviate the problem without worrying about the costs involved.

SINGLE AND MULTI TRIP PET TRAVEL COVER

Cover your pets anywhere in Europe and only pay for what you need when you take your pets on holiday.

We at Protectapet offer 30, 60, 90 or 180 day pet travel packages that can be used at anytime over a 12 month period.

Protectapet  provide an option to include European Pet travel cover when you take out any of our Pet Healthcare Plans.  With this unique cover, your pet is protected wherever you travel within Europe.

THE BEST SELLING PET TRAVEL PLAN FOR PETS IN SPAIN

We may just get in the car and travel to our destination over a period of a few days, weeks or months.  With a Protectapet Travel Cover plan you will not need to worry about accidents, illnesses and emergencies during your holiday or during the journey there and back.  You may be a foot passenger on a ferry crossing or flying with your pet.  Don´t worry any more as we will protect your pet wherever you are.

As travel plans are unique to each individual case, each quotation will be based on the information you submit relating to your pets journey, holiday or transportation method.  In the event of a claim, you will need to produce a certificate that is dated no more than 30 days prior to your date of travel, certifying that your pet is in good health and is fit to travel.

CAN I TRAVEL WITH MY PET TO EUROPE?

On 1 January 2021, the UK became an EU "part two listed" country.

This means pets from England, Scotland and Wales can travel within the EU's borders as long as owners obtain an animal health certificate (AHC) first.

The AHC confirms that your pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies .

You need to get a new certificate each time you travel with your pet, and you must obtain it within 10 days of your departure date.

The document is valid for four months but only covers a single trip into the EU, onward travel within the EU and re-entry to Great Britain.

PET TRAVEL AFTER BREXIT

United Kingdom Pet owners used to be able to freely travel with their pet dog or cat to European Union countries as long as they had a pet passport and the animal was microchipped.

Since the United Kingdom has left the European Union new rules have come in to force.

PET PASSPORTS

Protectapet healthcare plans will also cover the theft or loss of your pet documentation replacement costs up to a maximum of € 750.00 depending on the type of plan you contract with Protectapet.

TRANSPORTING MY PET

Pet travel by air.

Pet Air travel companies can also offer you kennel and boarding services at either end, so that if you are not going to be there when your pet arrives, it will be safe and secure in a recommended Kennel or cattery for as long as you need it to be.  Animals travelling by air require a suitable travel box. These are often supplied by the Pet Transport Company tailor made to suit the size of your pet and meet IATA guidelines.  Plastic travel boxes are available in a variety of sizes that are often suitable for air travel.

You can often carry your pet with you on the aircraft.  Be aware that the documentation can take time and it is best to plan well ahead of your expected departure date and allow time for the collection and delivery of documents, crates, insurance, veterinary certificates and to fulfill any obligations that might be required by the country you are flying to.

PET TRAVEL BY CAR

Make sure that the vehicle is suitable for your pet and that they have air-conditioning and/or an electric airflow system.

Make sure that your pet has a suitable travel compartment, is comfortable and that it is big enough for the journey.

If you are using a regular pet transport company, ask to see the vehicle and make sure that it is clean and disinfected after each trip.  Foul smells, lingering stains and rubbish will alert you to the type of cleanliness your pet will travel in.

Ask them for their routine stopping places and what periods they use for breaks, feeding and animal walks.  If they are completing a long journey, be sure to ask where they will be kept overnight.  Being left in a vehicle at night can be very stressful for your pet.

Ask if they provide Face time and or video updates.  Some Transport companies will post regular updates either to their Facebook pages or directly to you, to give you peace of mind.

Remember to ensure that all your pet passports, inoculations, vaccinations, vet checks and documentation are completed and up to date before you travel.  Make copies of these documents incase the originals are lost.

BEWARE OF PET TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT SCAMS!

There are a lot of PET transport Companies offering 'cheap' unaccompanied transportation of pets by road within Europe.  Some copy websites and details of approved, licenced and accredited companies.  Do check their documentation and if you can, visit them and have a look at their vehicles.  This will give you an immediate indication of the type and quality of service that they offer.

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How to insure your pet to travel abroad

If you want to take your pet with you on holiday you should make sure they are properly insured. Here is how to find pet insurance that covers your pet abroad.

You no longer have to put your beloved pet into kennels or a cattery when you go on holiday as many places will let you bring them along too. If it’s not a holiday, and you’re travelling or moving to another country, you can also bring your furry friend although there are strict rules to follow.

You’ll need to check if your pet needs their own passport, any extra vaccinations and if they will need to be quarantined for the trip. Insurance is also key and will save you a lot in vet fees if your pet becomes ill or injured. 

What is pet travel insurance?

It is an extension of pet insurance that can be added to cover trips abroad. Some pet insurance policies include overseas cover as standard, but with others, it's an optional extra you’ll need to pay for.

GOV.UK — Pet travel: entering and returning to the UK

What does it cover?

Every policy varies but you’ll usually get some of the same cover as you do in the UK:

Vet fees: You will have the same level of cover as you would at home, but you will only be covered if your pet was in good health before you went away.

Advertising and reward: You must report your pet lost in the country they go missing. Insurers will not pay a reward claimed by anyone travelling with you.

Holiday cancellation cover: This covers you if you cancel your trip or cut it short because your pet dies, or needs emergency treatment and can no longer travel.

You also get extra benefits specific to travelling abroad with your pet:

Quarantine costs: This covers the cost of quarantine kennelling if your pet is unable to travel due to illness, as long as you have complied with the regulations for the country you’re visiting. Most policies cover quarantine costs up to £1,500.

Repeat tapeworm treatment: You can claim the cost of your pet getting repeat tapeworm treatment while abroad if you have to stay longer because your departure back to the UK is delayed.

Emergency repatriation: This covers the extra cost of getting your pet home if they are ill or injured while you are away. You can also claim for the cost of accommodation if your departure is delayed because your pet is too ill to travel.

Loss of your pet's passport: Your insurer can pay the cost of replacing your pet's passport or healthcare certificate if you lose it while on your trip.

Here is what is covered under a pet insurance policy

How long is your pet covered for?

This varies between insurers, but most will cover your pet for a maximum of 90 days overseas per year.

Some only allow a certain number of trips each year, for example, a maximum of three trips which last no longer than 28 days each.

Pet passports

You can no longer use a pet passport issued in Great Britain for travel to an EU country.

To travel within the EU - or Northern Ireland - your pets (including guide dogs) must have an animal health certificate (AHC) to confirm that they are microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. The certificate should be issued by your pet's vet.

Your pet will need a new AHC each time they travel, and you will need to apply for one at least 10 days before you leave.

The certificate will be valid for four months, but only for one trip.

When you arrive in the EU you will need to enter through a travellers' point of entry , where your pet will undergo documentary and identity checks by the local authorities.

How to find the right pet travel cover

If you already have a pet insurance policy, check to see if overseas travel is covered as standard. If not, contact your insurer to see if you can add it as an extra benefit.

It’s well worth shopping around to make sure you find a policy that suits your pet but also one at an affordable price.

You should look at the following:

What each policy covers when you are travelling with your pet

The countries included

How much the policy limits are

Any exclusions that could prevent the insurer paying out

Which policy offers the right cover at the best price

Make sure the policy you choose also gives all the cover you need at home. Here is everything you need to know about pet insurance , including what it should cover.

You may also like

• How to get help with vet bills
• A buyer's guide to pet insurance
• Can you get cover for your pet with existing conditions?
• How to insure your pedigree pet
• Can you get insurance for older pets?

Cat insurance

Dog insurance

Pet insurance

Pet insurance guides

Who we compare

About Matt Fernell

4 Best Long-Term Travel Insurance in 2024 (w/ Prices)

Home | Travel | 4 Best Long-Term Travel Insurance in 2024 (w/ Prices)

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!

Planning on taking an extended trip soon? Long-term travel insurance is the perfect choice for travelers who are embarking on a long-term trip and need medical- and travel-related coverage.

Of course, insurance for long-term travel isn’t necessary for every traveler, particularly if you don’t take trips that are longer than three months. However, long-stay travel insurance is useful for anyone who is studying abroad, working abroad temporarily, taking a gap year, or simply traveling for a long period of time.

When I first moved to the US, I wasn’t sure if I would stay permanently, so I purchased a long-term travel insurance policy from Heymondo , knowing that it would save me money and give me coverage if I experienced any medical emergencies. It was exactly what I needed at the time.

5% OFF your travel insurance

As soon as I decided to live in the US permanently, I switched to insurance with more medical coverage beyond emergency situations since extended-trip travel insurance is not suitable for expats who want routine medical care.

If extended-stay travel insurance is what you need, keep reading, because we have compared the best long-term travel insurance plans (Heymondo, World Nomads, Travelex, and SafetyWing) and can help you choose which of these is best for your trip.

What is long-term travel insurance?

Long-stay travel insurance coverage comparison

• Long-stay travel insurance price comparison
• Best long-term travel insurance companies

Long-term travel insurance is insurance for anyone taking a long-term trip who needs medical expenses and trip-related coverage. Any trip that lasts a minimum of 90 days and a maximum of one or two years (depending on the long stay travel insurance company) is considered a long-term trip.

Like other travel insurance, insurance for long-term travel provides medical- and travel-related coverage for incidents like emergency medical care, trip delays, baggage loss, and repatriation. It is not suitable, however, for anyone who is permanently living abroad, especially because it only covers emergency medical expenses and not routine medical care.

Long-term travel insurance vs. annual, multi-trip travel insurance

So, is long-trip travel insurance the same thing as annual, multi-trip travel insurance ? They might sound similar, but actually, insurance for long-term travel and annual travel insurance is completely different.

Long-term travel insurance is insurance for long trips that last three months or more, while annual travel insurance covers multiple shorter trips that happen within one year. With annual travel insurance, trips are restricted to 30-90 days, so it’s not a useful option if your trip will last any longer than that. Annual travel insurance is also only helpful if you’ll be taking at least four or more trips a year.

If you are going on a single, long-term trip or are taking multiple trips within a year that will last longer than 90 days, long-stay travel insurance is the best choice for you.

Who is insurance for long-term travel for?

There are several reasons you might need insurance for long-term travel . You might be taking an extended trip, working abroad, embarking on a gap year, or more. Below are the most common and useful reasons for buying travel insurance for long-term travel :

Extended stay travel insurance for long trips

If you’re about to take a long trip that will last at least three months, you will definitely want to have travel insurance coverage, particularly for emergency medical expenses.

Long-term travel insurance will work out to be the most affordable option for your trip, especially if you don’t plan on returning to your home country before 90 days have elapsed. If you plan on going back home before 90 days have passed, then annual, multi-trip travel insurance might be more helpful for you.

Long stay travel insurance for working abroad

Are you about to be working from another country for an extended but temporary period? Having travel insurance for working overseas is a must, as it’s very possible that you’ll need emergency medical care at some point during your time abroad.

Remember to put your country of residence as your home country, not the country you will be working in temporarily. Otherwise, you will not be covered since long-term travel insurance usually does not provide coverage in your designated country of residence.

Travel insurance for expats

Although it may seem like a great idea to use long-term travel insurance as travel insurance when moving abroad , long-stay travel insurance is not intended for expats. Long-stay travel insurance only covers emergency medical expenses, so it’s not suitable for someone who lives abroad permanently and will need routine medical care and check-ups.

On top of that, whatever country you move to will now be your country of residence. Insurance for long-term travel does not generally provide coverage in your designated country of residence, so you may not be eligible for coverage anyway.

Long-stay travel insurance for students

It’s incredibly exciting to study abroad, but accidents and mishaps can and do happen, so avoid paying for emergency medical expenses and replacing stolen valuables with your own money by getting extended-stay travel insurance .

Having long-term travel insurance coverage will be especially useful if you plan on taking weekend trips to other countries that are close to the country where you are studying abroad; you can still receive the same coverage for those smaller trips (just make sure to select worldwide coverage or, if you’ll just be traveling in Europe, Europe/EU coverage).

Round-the-world trip insurance

Taking a long-term trip around the world is many people’s dream. If you are lucky enough to get to live out that dream, it’s easy to make sure your extended-stay travel insurance worldwide will cover you everywhere you want to visit.

Just make sure you select “worldwide” or “around the world” coverage when you purchase your extended-trip travel insurance . That way, you won’t have to buy individual long-term travel insurance policies for each country you visit. Best of all, you’ll be covered for any spontaneous stops you make while traveling the world.

One-way travel insurance, the best gap year travel insurance

If you’re planning on spending a full year traveling the world, travel insurance for long trips abroad is exactly what you need. You’ll benefit from worldwide emergency medical coverage, so you can receive treatment if you get injured or fall ill, as well as travel-related coverage for baggage loss and trip delays.

I recommend purchasing a one-way travel insurance plan from Heymondo or SafetyWing since both companies allow you to renew your plan from month to month. That way, if you end up coming home unexpectedly early, you won’t lose out on any money.

Insurance for digital nomads

ith so many jobs transitioning to working from home right now, it’s easier than ever to work remotely from anywhere in the world. If you have the opportunity to travel the world while working, take it, but make sure you purchase digital nomad travel insurance before you leave.

You’ll want your insurance coverage to include electronics (laptop, tablet, etc.) so that you can easily replace these crucial pieces of technology for working remotely if they get lost or stolen. Additionally, if you’ll be trying to check a lot of places off your travel bucket list, choose worldwide coverage so that you’ll have the freedom and insurance coverage to go wherever you want.

There can be many considerations to keep in mind when purchasing long-term travel insurance , but coverage is certainly the most important aspect to consider when selecting the long-stay travel insurance you want to buy.

Below, you’ll find a long-stay travel insurance comparison that shows you the differences in coverage among the Heymondo, World Nomads, Travelex, and SafetyWing plans.

Long-term travel insurance price comparison

If you want a better idea of how much long-term travel insurance costs based on the length of your trip and/or the specific coverage you choose, below is a chart comparing the prices of 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, 8-month, and 1-year long-term travel insurance as well as the prices of long-stay travel insurance, annual multi-trip travel insurance, and cancellation insurance.

The price of long-term travel insurance will be impacted by several different factors, including your age, nationality, and state of residence (if you live in the US).

To give you an idea of how much insurance for long-term travel costs, I’ve used the example of a 30-year-old American citizen who lives in Pennsylvania and needs worldwide coverage to generate quotes for this long-stay travel insurance price comparison .

Best long-term travel insurance

As you can see from the charts above, each of the four long-term travel insurance plans I compared has its merits.

Heymondo offers the highest emergency medical expense coverage, plus it’s the only insurance for long-term travel that pays your medical expenses upfront, so you don’t need to file a claim after your trip to get reimbursed. I will say, however, that it’s not the cheapest long-haul travel insurance and it does have a deductible of $100 for emergency medical expenses. Still, I do think it is the best long-term travel medical insurance if you want ease and convenience.

SafetyWing ’s Nomad Insurance also provides very good coverage, but their deductible for emergency medical expenses is $250. In spite of this slight drawback, SafetyWing stands out as the best insurance for digital nomads since you can sign up for a plan and it will automatically be renewed every four weeks.

Travelex , on the other hand, has the cheapest travel insurance for long-term travel (for trips of six months or more). For shorter trips, there are other, cheaper options. Travelex’s plan has no deductible, but its emergency medical coverage is also very limited, so I would think twice before going on a long-term trip with such a small amount of coverage.

Last but not least, World Nomads offers the best gap year travel insurance. The emergency medical expense coverage is perhaps a little low, but it is at least higher than Travelex’s medical coverage. There is no deductible for medical expenses, but you will need to pay out of pocket and then file a claim to get reimbursed if you receive emergency medical treatment.

As you can see, the best long-stay travel insurance for you will depend on your needs and type of trip, so keep reading to learn more about each plan.

1. Heymondo , the best long-term travel medical insurance

Personally, I consider Heymondo the best long-term travel medical insurance since its Top plan provides the highest amount of emergency medical expenses and evacuation and repatriation coverage. It’s also one of the only types of travel insurance with COVID coverage that covers COVID testing required by a doctor. Moreover, you can easily extend your plan by anything from two weeks to eight months whenever you want to.

Best of all, you won’t have to worry about waiting to get reimbursed for medical expenses since Heymondo pays your medical expenses directly and upfront for you, removing the hassle of the claim-filing process. Heymondo also makes it easy to tailor your insurance for long-term travel to fit your needs since you can add optional electronic and/or adventure sports coverage to your plan.

Heymondo’s Top plan does have its limitations, though. There is a $100 deductible for medical expenses, which means you’ll have to pay $100 towards any medical bills before Heymondo pays the rest for you. This long-stay travel insurance also lacks trip cancellation coverage; you will need to buy that coverage independently here.

If you want cheap long-term travel insurance , Heymondo is ideal; its plans already provide very good value for the money, plus you can save an extra 5% on their insurance with the discount link below.

Heymondo is also the best travel insurance company for single trips. We currently have their travel insurance and have used their assistance app more than once. Heymondo has always been there to help us when things go wrong during our trips.

2. World Nomads , the best gap year travel insurance

If you’re taking a gap year, you’re probably interested in breaking out of your comfort zone and having a real adventure. In that case, World Nomads is the perfect travel insurance for living abroad for a year and trying new things.

Its Standard plan includes adventure sports and activities coverage, so you can try everything from trekking and ice fishing to hockey and horseback riding and still be covered for accidents and injuries. Moreover, you’ll benefit from solid overall coverage for emergency medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation, trip cancellation, trip delay, and baggage loss.

Even better, there’s a $0 deductible for medical expenses, so you won’t have to pay a cent out of pocket toward your medical bills. However, World Nomads’ long-term travel insurance is the most expensive out of all the ones I compared, so if you want to save a lot of money and get similar or better coverage, Heymondo may work better for you.

3. Travelex , the best travel insurance for long-term travel

Travelex ’s Travel Select long-trip travel insurance has a lower amount of emergency medical coverage than the other insurance plans I have compared, and I personally wouldn’t feel protected traveling with such a low amount of medical coverage on a long-stay trip. However, Travelex is a viable option if you’re traveling on a budget for more than six months because it’s really cheap (and has a $0 deductible for medical expenses)!

Travel-related coverage is another story since Travelex has the highest amount of trip cancellation and trip delay coverage of all the plans I compared. It’s the best plan to choose if you anticipate experiencing any travel mishaps. You’ll also enjoy great baggage loss and evacuation and repatriation coverage.

If you would rather benefit from more medical coverage for a similar price, Heymondo is the best choice for you.

4. SafetyWing , the best insurance for digital nomads

SafetyWing ’s Nomad Insurance lives up to its name by being the best insurance for digital nomads . Not only is Nomad Insurance a cheap long-stay travel insurance , but it also provides a high amount of medical-related and baggage loss coverage.

On top of that, you can choose to have your insurance renew itself automatically every 28 days. Automatic renewal will save you time and money; ensure you don’t forget to renew so you’re always covered; and provide you with more flexibility if you haven’t decided when to end your trip yet. Just select a start date (but not an end date) when you buy Nomad Insurance and keep renewing until you want to go home, at which time you can select an end date.

Nothing’s perfect, however, and unfortunately, SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance is no exception. There’s a $250 deductible for medical expenses, which means you’ll have to pay $250 out of pocket for medical treatment before SafetyWing will cover medical expenses for you.

SafetyWing also lacks trip cancellation coverage, which can be very useful if you have to cancel a trip due to weather, illness, injury, or many other reasons. If you want a lower deductible, go with Heymondo instead, and if trip cancellation coverage is important to you, choose World Nomads or Travelex .

What does long-term travel insurance cover?

The best travel insurance for long-term travel will usually include the following types of coverage:

• Emergency medical expenses : This is probably the most important type of coverage as well as the coverage you are most likely to need while traveling. Accidents, injuries, and illnesses can happen at any time, so having emergency medical expense coverage will ensure that you don’t have to pay out of pocket for hospitalization or medical transportation.
• Evacuation and repatriation : Hopefully, you’ll never have to use evacuation and repatriation coverage, but it is useful to have. Insurance for long-term travel with evacuation and repatriation coverage will pay for the transportation costs of taking you from a remote area to the nearest hospital or sending you back to your home country if you fall seriously ill or have an accident.
• Trip delay : Unfortunately, travel does not always go smoothly; your flight could be delayed due to inclement weather or an airline issue. If that does happen, long-stay travel insurance ’s trip delay coverage will cover expenses, such as meals and accommodation, that are incurred because of a several-hour delay.
• Baggage loss : Even when you take precautions to keep your belongings safe, there’s still a chance an airline could lose or damage your bags, or a pickpocket could take your purse. In any case, long-term travel insurance with baggage loss coverage will reimburse you for any valuables that are lost or damaged, so you won’t have to replace them with your own money.

Is long-term travel insurance worth it?

Ultimately, yes, long-term travel insurance is worth it for extended trips, working abroad temporarily, and taking a gap year. It’s also a great alternative for international student insurance . In all of these situations, insurance for long-term travel will ensure that you get the medical- and travel-related coverage you need without having to break the bank.

As you’ve seen in the long-term travel insurance comparison chart above, Heymondo is the best long-stay travel insurance in terms of medical coverage. It offers the highest amount of emergency medical expense and evacuation and repatriation coverage.

Heymondo’s extended-stay travel insurance also provides the convenient flexibility of being able to renew your policy for periods from two weeks to eight months, which is perfect if you haven’t yet decided when you’ll end your trip. To top it all off, you can even get 5% off their insurance just for being a Capture the Atlas reader.

If you’ll be traveling for more than six months and you’re looking for the cheapest long-stay travel insurance, then Travelex may be better for you. Just be aware of their plan’s lower amount of medical coverage.

If you have any questions about long-term travel insurance, feel free to comment below and I will happily help you out!

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

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

Ascen Aynat

22 replies on “ 4 Best Long-Term Travel Insurance in 2024 (w/ Prices) ”

Hi Ascen, we are US citizens and plan to spend about 6 months of the year in California and 6 months abroad. We have lived in California and in the past had insurance with our jobs which will now be no more. So the question is when we are are in California what is our insurance option so we can visit doctors, dentists etc. Thank you

Hi Sonu, you need standard health insurance for California and travel insurance for traveling out of the States. Travel insurance won’t cover routinary medical appointments.

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

Good day. Could I get overlapping coverages to address different issues? Does any of these cover rental car collision insurance during any portion of the stay? If not, what do you recommend for that?

Yes, you can hire different travel insurance to get different coverages. That is no problem.

Hi my husband was diagnosed with mestatic melonma in 2021, Weve been traveling back and forth to Moffitt overvs year now. Weve paid out over $7000 just in lodging. Do you have a plan for this??

I’m sorry about that but there is no insurance that can cover that. That is not an unforeseen issue that occurred during a trip that is mostly what travel insurance cover.

Hi There is an age limit on Heymondo 49+ not included. I am 60. Can you recommend any long stay travel insurance for this age group? Thanks Karan

Hi Karan, I recommend checking our article on senior travel insurance for the best options for you.

Hi! Do you know if you need basic medical coverage from your home country before purchasing any of these insurance plans presented above? My situation is a bit complex. I am a Canadian citizen currently living abroad (non-resident of Canada), therefore I have no basic Canadian health coverage. I am currently covered by the country I reside in (Qatar), however, once I leave, I will no longer have a residency permit and therefore no coverage here either. So when I leave, I won’t have coverage anywhere. I am planning on leaving to travel for a year, so I need long-term travel and medical coverage.

Hi Marisas, please take into account that these long-term travel insurance are travel insurance. That means that they don’t cover routine health checks or chronic diseases. They only cover you under unforeseen problems. For example, if you hire one of these long-term travel insurance and have a car accident during a trip and need surgery, the travel insurance will cover but it won’t cover cancer treatment, for example.

Hi can you recommend a travel insurance for a 7 month European trip for wife and self age 59 CA residents- many thanks

Please check the coverage for the insurance recommended in this article and choose the one that is best for you.

Hi Were planning to travel continuously for one year to Europe, Asia & med cruise. Is there a travel insurance that can cover this? Most insurances will require you to go back to your home country (US) after 60 to 90 days. Thanks

Hi Nate, I don’t believe you need to get back to the US with the Heymondo Long-Term Travel Insurance. Have you checked it out?

Hi Ascen We are a male 57years and female 58 years and we are travelling to south Africa to include Botswana Namibia Mozambique,Angola Zambia and Lesotho, we are shipping our car from Australia into south africa and will be travelling for two years we both hold Australian and UK passports Could you please recommend a medical insurance for this trip , we are not to bothered about trip cancellation baggage etc any help would be appreciated We have used world nomads previously but would consider others as well Thank you ag and rg

Hi Antony, that trip sounds amazing! If you’re doing a long-term trip like that one, I recommend Heymondo since they pay all medical expenses in advance. Just be aware of the 100$ deductible per claim.

Said that their price is very competitive and they have very high coverage.

Looking for long term insurance for cancel for any reason plus Covid coverage.

I recommend purchasing separately a long term travel insurance with Covid Coverage (I recommend this one ), and a cancel for any reason policy.

Interesting that this features Travelex and then notes: “Can get similar or better coverage for a more affordable price” From whom?

As you can see in the different comparison charts (coverage comparison chart and price comparison chart), Travelex is the one with the lower coverage, by far, and it’s only worth checking for 6-month insurance or more.

Let me know if you have any questions,

Hi! Do you know if you need basic medical coverage from your home country before purchasing any of these insurance plans presented above? My situation is a bit complex. I am a Canadian citizen currently living abroad (non-resident of Canada), therefore I have no basic Canadian health coverage. I am currently covered by the country I reside in (Qatar), however, once I leave, I will no longer have a residency permit and therefore no coverage here either. So when I leave, I won’t have coverage anywhere. I am planning on leaving to travel for a year, so I need long-term travel and medical coverage. Thanks!

Hi Melanie, no you don’t need it. You will need just long-term travel insurance and you will be covered wherever you go. Also in your home country as long that you’re traveling there and use the insurance just for emergencies (not regular checks, ongoing problems, chronic diseases, and things like that). In your situation, I think the long-term travel insurance of MONDO is your best bet.

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Overseas travel

Thinking about taking your pet abroad, overseas travel cover for cats and dogs, what's included in our overseas travel cover.

Our Overseas Travel cover can provide you and your pets with the insurance you need to help make sure that your holiday goes swimmingly. With our extended Overseas Travel cover, the same great benefits that you already receive in the UK will automatically join you over in Europe, the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. Please note that if you have chosen our Dog Liability Insurance option, then this cover only applies in the UK.

We know that you want to sit back and relax while you're on holiday, but sometimes this can be hard if you're worrying about your dog being bitten by ticks or missing your flight home. So that's why we also offer additional benefits as part of our overseas cover that can help, including:

Loss of pet travel documents

We can replace your pet’s pet travel document should it become damage or lost. If your pet can’t travel or you lose the travel documents while you’re away, then we can cover the cost of a replacement. Loss must be reported to your vet within 24 hours.

Quarantine costs

If your pet’s microchip fails, we will cover the kennelling and costs incurred in getting new pet travel documents for your pet. If your pet has to go into quarantine due to illness, where you have complied with all the required regulations of the Pet Travel Scheme, we will cover the kennelling.

What is not covered:

• Any amount exceeding £2,000 during the period of insurance.
• Any costs incurred if the microchip was not checked and found to be functioning properly within 14 days of your departure on a journey.
• Any costs arising in respect of any condition of which you were aware before the start of the journey.
• Any costs resulting from a pre-existing medical condition.

Emergency expenses

We can offer up to £1,500 to cover travel and accommodation fees should you miss your departure because your pet requires emergency treatment. Pre-existing conditions or treatments that your pet doesn’t need aren't covered. 

How much can I be covered for, when I'm abroad?

While you and your pet are abroad, our Overseas Travel cover can provide you with the protection you need to safeguard against things that may go wrong while you're on holiday. Our cover includes:

• Emergency expenses: Up to £1,500 per period of insurance to cover the loss of pet travel documents while you're away and up to five days of travel and accommodation costs should your pet either go missing, require emergency vet treatment, or you miss your return flight to the UK because of the loss of pet travel documents.
• Quarantine costs: Up to £2,000 per period of insurance to cover the cost of kennelling and boarding fees if you need to stay on to get new pet travel documents due to a failed microchip or if your pet has contracted an illness despite you complying to Pet Travel Scheme rules.

Overseas Travel cover can be added to your pet's insurance at any time during your period of insurance. So, if you started your policy at the beginning of the year and are planning a holiday now, you can extend your cover to bring along your pet.

If you have multiple pets insured with us however, all of those pets will need to be on the same policy, which will need to be extended to include Overseas Travel insurance. If you have also included our Public Liability cover for dogs , be aware that Public Liability cover only applies in the UK.

How long will my pet be covered for?

Got a long break in the sun but are worried about when the cover for your pets is going to expire? With our insurance, you shouldn't have to worry! You can travel within Europe with your pet as many times as you like a year, as long as your trip away lasts no longer than 60 days each time. We aren't ones to tell you that you shouldn't have a holiday, so you can take as many trips as you like within the year and we can keep your pet covered. 

How will Brexit affect travelling with my pet?

With effect from 1st January 2021 there are new procedures that you will need to follow when travelling overseas with your pet under the European Union’s Pet Travel Scheme.

Living in England, Scotland or Wales

If you and your pet live in England, Scotland or Wales (Great Britain), the following changes apply for each trip to a country within the Pet Travel Scheme or Northern Ireland:

• You must have your dog or cat microchipped
• Vaccinate your dog or cat against rabies, and your pet must be at least 12 weeks old before it can be vaccinated
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
• Visit your vet to get an AHC for your pet, no more than 10 days before travel to the EU
• As long as you keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up to date, you will not need to get repeat vaccinations for repeat trips to the EU or Northern Ireland.

Getting an animal health certificate (AHC)

You must take your pet to your vet no more than 10 days before travel to get an AHC. The AHC needs to be signed by an official vet. Check with your vet that they can issue AHCs for pets.

You must take proof of:

• your pet’s microchipping date
• your pet’s vaccination history

Your pet’s AHC will be valid for:

• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU or Northern Ireland
• onward travel within the EU or Northern Ireland for four months after the date of issue
• re-entry to Great Britain four months after the date of issue

Travelling to Finland, Island of Ireland, Norway or Malta

If you’re travelling with your dog directly to Finland, Island of Ireland, Norway or Malta, it must have treatment against tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis). Your dog will need to receive treatment one to five days before arriving in any of these countries. Your vet must enter full details on the AHC following treatment. You will not be able to travel with your pet if you have not completed these steps. 

Arriving in the European Union

When arriving in the EU you must use a designated traveller’s point of entry to check compliance with all regulations. Details can be found  here . 

Living in Northern Ireland

If you live in Northern Ireland the EU pet travel documents are no longer valid, however as an interim measure you can contact your vet to update the pet travel documents to allow travel. DARERA are in the process of obtaining a new style UK (NI) pet travel documents. Further details for pet owners living in Northern Ireland can be found  here .  

Additional questions

Please do contact your vet if you have any queries relating to any future travel you have planned. You can also view the guidance from the Government  here .

Frequently asked questions about our overseas travel insurance

Want to find out more about our overseas travel insurance.

Got a question about our travel cover? Or want to know more about cats and dogs in general? We’ve answered a few questions for you here!

• Pet insurance

If you’ve got more than one dog, then why not look at multi-pet insurance?

Instead of having each of your dogs on different pet policies, with our multi-pet insurance, you can save any hassle and take advantage of our multi-pet discount. You can cover up to five dogs on one policy. We are unable to insure dogs that are used for breeding purposes and pre-existing illnesses and conditions are not covered.

If you own more than one cat, then you could look into including all of your cats on one insurance policy.

Multi-pet insurance means that you don’t need to have all of your cats on different policies. Instead, you can cover up to five cats on one policy, saving you plenty of hassle and money at the same time!

We are unable to insure cats that are used for breeding purposes and pre-existing illnesses and conditions are not covered.

If you’ve got dogs and cats at home, then why not look at multi-pet insurance?

Instead of having each of your dogs and cats on different pet policies, with our multi-pet insurance you can save any hassle and take advantage of our multi-pet discount. You can cover up to five pets on one policy. We are unable to insure dogs and cats that are used for breeding purposes and pre-existing illnesses and conditions are not covered.

Insurance for your cat or dog can start as soon as possible! Our cover starts for cats and dogs aged eight weeks and over. We cannot cover claims arising within the first 14 days of your insurance starting and pre-existing illnesses and conditions are not covered.

Yes! Our pet insurance includes older dogs. If you're looking to get insurance for your long-time companion, or whether you've recently taken in an older dog, then we can provide you and your dog with cover.

What about dogs over eight years of age?

Much like us, as dogs get older their health and behaviour may have changed since they were a young pup. This might mean that they need more frequent trips to the vet. Their treatment can even be complicated by their old age and therefore potentially more expensive.

If you've got a dog over eight years of age and you're making a claim for their vet fees, then the excess that you must pay is:

• The first £150
• Plus 20% of the remaining cost of treatment

The excess applies to each condition claimed for annually.

Yes! With our pet insurance we can cover older cats. If you're looking to get insurance for your feline friend, or whether you've recently adopted an older cat, then we can provide you with cover.

What about cats over eight years of age?

If you've got a cat over eight years of age and you're making a claim for their vet fees, then the excess that you must pay for each condition annually is:

Having insurance for your dog means that you can be covered against the cost of potentially very expensive trips to the vet.

You get to choose either Accident Only cover or cover for Accident and Illness for your dog. We offer three levels of vet fee cover, which means that you can be covered for up to £3,000, £6,000 or £12,000 per year.

If your claim has been successful, then we can pay the agreed amount, less any excess, either:

• Straight into your bank account so you aren't left out of pocket, or;
• To your vet if this is more convenient for you and your vet.

All vet fee claims are handled in the UK by Covea Insurance. While your claim is being dealt with, you can receive regular updates on its progress via email or text message.

Public Liability insurance for your dog, sometimes referred to as Third Party Liability insurance, can provide up to £2million per event if your dog injures someone or damages property and you are held liable.

If you're out for a walk with your dog and they were to knock somebody over, then we can keep you covered if you’ve chosen our Public Liability option. Heading out for a dog walk shouldn’t end in hefty compensation costs, which is why we offer dog owners Public Liability protection for claims of property damage or injury from a third party.

Cover only applies in the UK.

Some dog breeds cannot be covered by our Third Party Liability option, see " Are there any breeds of dog that you are unable to insure? " For assistance dogs to qualify for Third Party Liability cover, they must have been trained by a member of, and within the guidance of, the organisation of Assistance Dogs UK .

Yes! Our Accident Only cover still offers you the same great choice of annual vet fee cover options for £3,000, £6,000 or £12,000.

Dogs can suffer injuries when you least expect it. Whether they've hurt themselves while out for a walk, or if playtime has ended in a trip to the vets.

Our Accident Only policy provides you with an uncomplicated level of cover for your dog which aims to protect you against potentially expensive trips to the vet to treat your dog for an injury.

Vet fees arising from illnesses that your dog may be suffering from are not covered and the excess you will be required to pay for treatment for injury depends on the age of your pet. Unfortunately, we can't cover any pre-existing conditions; nor claims for injury within the first 48 hours of your cover starting.

Yes, we are able to cover working dogs. This would include a dog that is being used for shooting, hunting, or working with livestock. Also a dog that performs tasks to assist a human companion, including therapy dogs.

Unfortunately, for all of our policies, we cannot provide any vet fees or liability cover for any animal registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and/or the Dogs (Muzzling) regulations (Northern Ireland) 1991 or any amendments; or (whether pedigree, cross breed, mixed breed or known or classed as the names listed) an Abruzzese Mastiff, African Crested Dog, African Wild Dog, Alangu Mastiff, American Bulldog, American Bully, American Bully XL, American Indian Dog, American Mancon, American Mastiff, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Argentine Dogo, Argentinian Mastiff, Australian Dingo, Bandogge, Bandogge Mastiff, Blue Bull Terrier, Boerboel, Bole, Brazilian Mastiff, Bully, Bully Kutta, Canadian Inuit Dog, Canary Dog, Canary Mastiff, Cane Corso, Cão de Fila de São Miguel, Cão Fila, Chinese Shar Pei, Czechoslovakian Wolfdog, Dingo, Dogo Argentino, Dogue Brasileiro, East Siberian Laika, Fila Brasileiro, Gull Dong, Husky Wolf Hybrid, Inuit Dog American, Irish Staffordshire, Irish Staffordshire Blue Bull Terrier, Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Irish Wolfhound, Italian Mastiff, Japanese Mastiff, Japanese Tosa, Johnson American Bulldog, Korean Jindo, Korean Mastiff, Laika, Libyan Desert Dog, Neapolitan Mastiff, Northern Inuit Dog, Pakistani Bull Dog, Perro de Presa Canario, Pit Bull Mastiff, Pit Bull Terrier, Pocket Bully, Presa Canario, Racing Greyhound, Sarloos Wolfhound, Shar Pei, South African Boerboel, South African Mastiff, Tamaskan Dog, Tibetan Mastiff, Tosa, Tosa Inu, Utonagan Dog, Wolf Hybrid and Wolfdog.

No, we cannot cover pets that are used for guarding.

Yes, we are able to cover a crossbreed dog.

Yes. You must be a UK resident and domiciled in the UK.

You can choose to pay in full by credit or debit card. Alternatively, you can take advantage of our interest free monthly payment option and simply spread the payments out, without any additional cost.

Your pet must be eight weeks old at the start date of cover. There is no maximum pet age to apply for this insurance, but there are age limits on cover sections.

Death due to illness is limited to pets under five years of age at the time of the incident. Full details are found in the policy wording.

Provided that you have chosen our Accident and Illness cover we will refresh your veterinary fees benefit each year allowing you to claim for ongoing conditions on your pet insurance for as long as we are able to offer a renewal and you renew without a gap in cover.

Yes. Depending on the type of cover you select we are able to cover treatment provided that it is related to an injury or illness.

Yes there is an excess you will need to pay in respect of each illness or injury for which you wish to claim each year. These are as follows:

Veterinary Fees

For each illness or injury arising during each period of insurance your excess will be:

• For pets under eight years of age at time of treatment: The first £150.
• For pets older than eight years of age at time of treatment: The first £150 plus 20% of the remaining cost of treatment.

Holiday Cancellation - The first £75 of the claim

Accidental Damage to Third Party Property - The first £75 of the claim

Accidental Damage to Pet Accessories - The first £50 of the claim

Emergency Expenses - The first £50 of the claim

Third Party Liability - The first £250 of property damage claim

No, sorry - we cannot provide cover for pets that are used for breeding. There are special policies for their specific risks, and we suggest you speak to your vet or local insurance broker for help finding suitable cover.

We offer a choice of three annual benefit levels. You can insure up to the chosen limit each year and provided that we are able to offer renewal and you renew without a gap in cover the benefit will be reinstated for the next period of insurance. This means that you can claim for chronic or ongoing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart or skin conditions whilst the policy remains in force.

We need some details about you and the pet you wish to insure together with either bank account or debit/credit card details for payment of the premium.

This is something we are able to do provided that your vet is happy with this arrangement.

We look at a number of factors including the age and breed of the pet, the risk of chronic or recurring conditions associated with certain breeds, the area the pet lives in and any claims history.

If you need to make a claim then feel free to contact our UK-based claims team. Once you've made a claim, we can keep you updated regularly by text or email.

Make your claim by either calling Covea Insurance on: 0333 130 4534 or email: [email protected]  

As the insurance policy is a legal agreement between us and the policyholder, we can only set up a policy with the person who will be named as the policyholder.

Travelling with your pet within the European Union is due to be affected by developments regarding Brexit. His Majesty’s Government has clarified that until an agreement has been reached between the United Kingdom and the European Union you will need to follow the guidance set out below for any pet that travels overseas from 1st January 2021. More details on the current guidance and requirements for travelling abroad with your pet can be found in our section on How will Brexit affect travelling with my pet?

• Ensure your pet is microchipped
• Have your pet vaccinated against rabies. It is advised that your pet has a blood test at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination or booster to ensure the rabies antibodies are present
• Wait three months from the date the successful blood sample was taken before you choose to travel. You will need to ensure your vet gives you a copy of the test results and records the date the blood sample was taken on your Animal Health Certificate (AHC).

Please be advised that you will not be allowed to travel with your pet if you have not completed the steps above.

If your pet's blood test result is unfortunately unsuccessful, you’ll need to repeat the vaccination and the process above until it is successful before your pet is able to travel.

If you have any queries relating to any future travel you may have planned, please contact your vet. You can also view the Government guidance on pet travel here . It is important that you follow all up to date Government guidance when traveling abroad with your pet.

With our optional Overseas Travel cover, you can get travel insurance for your pet so that you don't have to leave them behind when you head away. We can help with the cost of vet fees abroad, as well as providing up to £1,500 to cover emergency expenses (maximum 60 days of cover per trip). Overseas Travel can be a useful option if you are planning to take your pet on holiday with you, providing your pet complies with the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). This allows you to travel with your pet to anywhere in Europe (including Channel Islands consisting of the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey Isle of Man and the Republic of Ireland).

You can read more about our optional Overseas Travel cover and how Brexit is affecting travelling with your pets from January 1st here .

To help reduce the stress levels in your cat or dog, traveling by car or train is usually the better option. If you have no choice but to travel by plane, flying is still a safe option for your pet. However, traveling by car does allow pet owners to keep a much closer eye on their pets, with the added bonus of being able to pull-over for breaks as often as you want. When traveling by train or plane, there will be tighter restrictions on where your pet can sit, how often (if they can in fact) move around, and with more people traveling alongside you, your pet could become increasingly stressed.

Before traveling on any long journey, carefully consider what the best form of transport for your cat or dog would be, and how you feel they would cope on the journey.

Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or dog on the plane, either in the cabin or down below in cargo. Before booking your flight, check with the airline that they can in fact, fly your pet. You may have to book in advance, with some airlines charging additional fees for traveling pets.

Your pet will need pet travel documents before they can fly, as this will need to be presented to the airline when checking in your pet. Depending on where your pet is flying from and where they are flying to, they will need to have certain vaccinations and treatments for illnesses such as rabies or tapeworm. You will most likely need to proof of the vaccinations and treatment from your vet.

If you're traveling abroad, or simply going away for a few days in the UK, it’s still a good idea to prep your pet for the journey. Such preparation measures could help reduce the stress levels in your pet, help you understand how best your pet travels, and help make the journey that little bit easier for both you and your pet.

• Before taking your pet on any long car journey, take them on short drives close to home, while slowly increasing the amount of time spent in the car. This will not only help them get used to being confined in a car, but it could help them overcome travel sickness if they suffer from it.
• Avoid feeding your cat or dog right before traveling, as the motion of the car, train or plane could upset their stomach. Make sure they have plenty of water, so they are well hydrated.
• Before any long journey, consider the health of your pet. Are they fit and healthy enough to travel? Make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations and treatments and be sure to check if they need any additional ones, as this could be a requirement of certain countries or airlines.
• To help ensure your pet is comfortable while traveling, make sure they have plenty of water, (food but depending how well they travel on a full stomach), toys to keep them occupied, and a comfortable place to sleep and rest. Most importantly, they need to be secured while traveling, whether it be in a crate that is large enough for them to sit in, stand and move around in, or strapped in using a proper pet seat belt for the car.

If you don't want to take your cat or dog on holiday with you, then why not consider the following instead:

• Leave your pet with a friend or family member
• Have a qualified pet-sitter come around to your home, to feed, walk and check-up on your pet
• Take your pet to a reputable kennel or cattery

Your policy document explorer

Documents apply to all pet insurance policies purchased from 27/09/2020 onwards.

Existing customers: If you purchased your policy before the date shown above, you can log into your account where you can view, amend, and renew your documents here . If you have not already signed up for an account, then you can register here .

If you purchased your policy before 23rd September 2019, please contact us on: 0345 450 7042

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in April 2024

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

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers, top credit cards with travel insurance, methodology, best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at no extra cost.

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Special medical insurance for ship captains and crew members, international students and missionaries.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

Here is the list of travel cards offered by Chase that include various forms of travel insurance.

Having one of these in your wallet is a good start to protecting your travel investments and preventing expensive accidents; however, savvy travelers check card terms closely and sometimes supplement with a third-party policy, like from one of the companies above, to better protect themselves.

on Chase's 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.

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

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

• Car rentals: Theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Trip interruption: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

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

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

How To Know If Long-Term Travel Insurance Is Right For Your Trip

Y ou've packed your suitcase, got your passport, and selected a book to read in-flight, but there is one more thing you can't really start your trip without:  travel insurance . If you are going on a weekend getaway to the Florida Keys or a five-day honeymoon to Tulum, travel insurance may not be completely necessary. However, if you are planning a longer trip, you will certainly need comprehensive long-term travel insurance before jumping on that plane.

Typically, you can (and should) purchase long-term travel insurance for trips that last anywhere between a few months and a year or two, depending on the insurance provider and policy. Perhaps you are taking a gap year in Australia, or planning to study in Italy or work abroad in Japan -- serious life events can happen in this extended time period that could require practical, medical, and financial aid only offered by long-term travel insurance.

Taking multiple, shorter trips in the same window puts you in a similar boat. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a rough spot if something unpleasantly mundane or gravely unfortunate happens abroad. The world of insurance policies can often be difficult and overwhelming to navigate, so here is a comprehensive map to ensure you are insured for your upcoming long-term trip.

A Longer Trip Is A More Unpredictable One

While abroad for an extended period, peace of mind is essential. Start researching and comparing policies ahead of time, because plans vary in coverages, conditions, and prices. Check with the providers you rely on at home as well -- for example, health insurance -- to see what they cover and what gaps you may have to fill during your extended time away; this is another important factor in determining if travel insurance is right for your trip and what type to purchase.

Most long-term travel insurance policies cover medical expenses, trip cancellations or interruptions, personal liability, and personal effects, among other things. An insurance policy that checks all those boxes would be most recommended, because "anything that can go wrong will go wrong," per the infamous Murphy's Law. Longer trips require greater financial investment -- plus, the longer you're away, the higher the chances of something happening.

If you need to go to a hospital because you got stomach poisoning or to return back home due to an unexpected emergency; if your baggage gets stolen in a busy airport; or if you do something unintentional for which you can be held liable, you can rest assured you'll be covered. Something as simple and frustrating as mishandled or  delayed baggage  can easily ruin a trip, and it statistically averages about 5.69 bags per 1000 passengers as recorded in 2019 by SITA , a specialist in air transport. If you think it's not going to happen to you, think again -- especially if your long-term travel plans involve multiple flights.

Key Considerations When Choosing Long-Term Travel Insurance

Although obvious, yet also easily overlooked, it is crucial to make sure that your policy covers the entire duration of your trip and maybe even longer -- or that extending your trip is within your coverage limits. What if you feel like spending an extra week in Vietnam to explore the Northern Highlands -- or if unforeseen delays simply prevent you from returning home on time? You can entertain the spontaneous while legally covered.

Most importantly, purchase a travel policy from a reputable insurance company with a stellar track record for customer service and claims processing. Some highly rated providers offering long-term travel insurance policies include HTH Travel Insurance, Nationwide, and Seven Corners, among others. Pick a provider known for dealing specifically with issues likely to come up on your trip -- for example, look for evacuation provisions if you're traveling to unsafe areas, coverage for "adventurous" activities if you're planning on bungee jumping, or prescription coverage if you'll need to fill them while you're away.

In the case of an emergency abroad, caring and timely service from your insurance provider can truly be life-changing. Now, with a suitcase, passport, a book for the flight, and insurance information in hand, you are ready to go. Be smart, be safe, be explorative, and if you're gone for a few months or more, for Murphy's sake, be covered with long-term travel insurance.

Read this next: Most Dangerous Islands In The World

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Best Pet Wellness Plans for Routine Care (2024)

Mike Miller is a writer with a decade of experience producing product and service content to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. Mike has a bachelor’s degree in creative advertising. In his spare time, Mike enjoys riding and fixing motorcycles, reading a good book and spending time with his wife and two cats.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

I am a small-animal veterinarian with a passion for improving patient outcomes through client and veterinary professional education. I particularly enjoy soft tissue surgery, emergency medicine, feline medicine and internal medicine.

One of my core values is building relationships — with pet owners, veterinary professionals and students. Engaging in educational opportunities around cost of care, spectrum of care, communication and mentorship has allowed me to build relationships across the profession. In mentoring early career veterinarians, veterinary students and pre-veterinary students, I hope to have a positive influence on the future of our profession.

As the owner of two cats, I have found pet insurance to be a valuable tool to limit financial stress while allowing me to provide the care that is the right fit for our family.

According to our research, Lemonade’s Preventative Package and Spot’s Gold Preventative Plan are the top two options for pet wellness plans. Pet insurance providers typically offer wellness plans as add-ons to enhance your core insurance coverage. However, you can purchase other wellness options directly from a vet, such as Banfield.

Though much less expensive and stressful than emergency vet visits, routine care for your pet can still add up financially. A pet wellness plan can help you manage the cost of preventative vet services like your cat’s or dog’s annual visit, vaccinations and parasite prevention.

5,534 pet owners requested and received a free no-obligation quote from one of the above companies in the last 30 days.

Top 7 Pet Wellness Plans from Insurance Providers

We at the MarketWatch Guides team have reviewed dozens of pet insurance providers offering wellness plans to help you determine the right coverage for your pet. Based on our in-depth review, we picked the following providers as the best pet insurance companies offering wellness coverage. 

• Lemonade: Our Top Pick
• Spot : Most Customizable Coverage
• ASPCA Pet Health Insurance : Our Pick for Older Pets
• Embrace Pet insurance : Our Pick for Savings
• ManyPets: Cheapest Plans for Cats
• AKC: Our Pick for Breeders
• Wagmo: Most Wellness Plan Options

Compare The Best Pet Insurance Wellness Plans

According to our analysis of how much it costs to own a pet , the average base price for wellness care is $448 annually. Use the table below to compare our top picks based on available wellness coverage, cost and expected savings.

*We estimated annual costs based on average pricing to insure dogs and cats. Your price will vary depending on your pet, location and chosen plan.

Why Trust Us?

What is a pet wellness plan.

A pet wellness plan covers routine veterinary visits and other routine health care such as annual vet checkups, lab work, blood work , vaccines, dental care , physical exams and more. These routine treatments and checkups are essential to maintaining your pet’s health. A pet wellness plan often only covers preventive care and does not include accident and illness coverage.

In most cases, wellness plans are add-ons for pet insurance and not available as stand-alone coverage. Wellness plans usually include a monthly fee, or premium, in exchange for reimbursement for preventative vet visits up to a specific annual allowance. However, some providers may use a similar copay method to pet insurance.

Dog Wellness Plans

Puppy wellness plans typically cover exams, microchipping, spaying/neutering, vaccines such as DHLPP and various other preventative care treatments. According to Dr. Angela Beal, DVM, the annual cost of routine care for a puppy could reach as high as $1,890. Dog wellness plans help cover these costs, alleviating the need for out-of-pocket payments.

Cat Wellness Plans

Cat wellness plans cover similar preventative care measures as dog wellness plans, with the difference that companies typically include coverage for cat-specific vaccines. These may encompass vaccines for the feline panleukopenia virus, feline viral rhinotracheitis and feline leukemia virus (FeLV).

Our Top Recommended Pet Wellness Plans

Pros & Cons

Why we recommend lemonade.

Lemonade offers pet insurance with two wellness plan add-ons for preventative and routine care. We like that it offers additional wellness services for puppies and kitties. One downside is that pets over 14 years old are not eligible for coverage.

Lemonade also offers an impressive mobile app to manage your pet’s health, file claims and track your policy coverage and billing.

Lemonade Plan Coverage

Of Lemonade’s two preventative care plans, the Preventative+ Package offers an additional $225 in annual benefits for a few extra dollars per month.

The Lemonade Preventative Package is the company’s cheapest wellness add-on. It costs $15 to $20 for dogs and $10 to $15 for cats. Coverage includes the following treatments with certain per-item limits, depending on your policy’s reimbursement rate.

The Lemonade Preventative+ Package has higher monthly payments of $20 to $27 for dogs and $15 to $22 for cats. It includes everything in the table above plus the following treatments, with certain per-item limits based on your policy’s reimbursement rate.

Spot Pet Insurance

Why We Recommend Spot

Spot offers two very comprehensive options for preventative care with up to $450 in annual benefits. Additionally, it includes some items in its insurance coverage that other providers don’t, such as exam fees and microchipping .

Spot Plan Coverage

You can purchase one of Spot’s preventive care plans for your pet’s routine care. The Gold plan costs an additional $10 monthly and comes with a $250 limit per year. Below is a list of each covered item in the Gold plan and its annual benefit.

Spot’s Platinum plan is more expensive at an additional $25 per month for $450 of total per-item limits per year. It includes the following treatments:

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

Pros & Cons

Why we recommend aspca pet healthy insurance.

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers two comprehensive wellness plans, including coverage for core vaccines and the option. Coupling strong preventative care with an option for an unlimited pet insurance annual limit, ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers potent coverage for your pet.

ASPCA Pet Healthy Insurance Plan Coverage

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance offers two wellness add-ons. The Preventative Basic add-on is the cheaper plan at $10 per month with $250 in annual routine care coverage. Below is a breakdown of what the Preventative Basic add-on covers.

The Preventative Prime add-on is more comprehensive. It costs $25 per month and includes the following procedures and annual limits for a total annual coverage of $450.

Why We Recommend Embrace

Embrace offers three tiers of its wellness plan, allowing pet owners to choose the one that most closely matches their annual pet wellness expenses.

Embrace Plan Coverage

Embrace’s Wellness Rewards add-on covers preventive care for an extra $18 to $53 per month. You can choose between $250, $450 or $650 of annual coverage limits . This plan pays 100% of costs up to the annual limit rather than only paying specified per-treatment limits like most competitors. Below are the items covered in Embrace’s Wellness Rewards add-on:

• Cremation or burial
• Fecal and routine blood tests
• Flea, tick and heartworm preventives
• Hip dysplasia exams, radiographs or other OFA testing
• Medicated shampoos
• Microchipping
• Nutritional supplements
• Prescription diet food
• Preventive teeth cleaning
• Reiki, massage therapy, acupuncture
• Routine anal gland expression
• Routine chiropractic care
• Spay/neuter surgery
• Toenail trimming
• Wearable pet activity monitors
• Wellness exam fees
• Vaccinations and titers

Note: The Wellness Rewards plan is not available in Rhode Island.

Why We Recommend ManyPets

Rather than assigning a specific annual limit to each covered wellness service, ManyPets splits its $600 annual benefit into four categories with a $150 limit each:

• Exams and vaccines
• Flea, tick and heartworm prevention
• Dental cleaning
• Holistic care

This gives pet parents more leeway to get the services they actually need, whether it’s additional vaccinations one year or a higher number of vitamins and supplements the next.

ManyPets Plan Coverage

ManyPets offers one wellness plan as an add-on to its affordable pet health insurance for $35 per month. It offers four broad categories of preventative treatments and allows you to choose how you want to use your coverage. For example, while Spot offers an annual reimbursement of $25 for the DHLPP vaccine and $25 for the FIP vaccine, ManyPets provides $150 for vaccines in general.

The plan costs $35 monthly for dogs and $25 monthly for cats with up to $300 in annual benefits.

Why We Recommend Wagmo

We picked Wagmo for its maximum annual limit. Although we recommend the lower tier for most pet parents, Wagmo offers a comprehensive plan for those seeking thorough coverage. Its Deluxe tier offers up to $1,580 in claims reimbursement for a $780 annual premium. That’s an annual benefit of up to $800.

Wagmo Plan Coverage

Wagmo offers three tiers of wellness plan coverage to provide options for every pet and situation. The Value plan costs an additional $25 per month.

Based on our analysis, the Classic plan is a significant improvement over the Value plan in terms of benefits — and it costs $45 per month.

The most comprehensive plan, called the Deluxe plan, expands coverage for several services and adds teeth cleaning to the list. It costs $65 per month.

American Kennel Club

Why We Recommend AKC

American Kennel Club (AKC) offers two affordable wellness plans that can help you absorb about one-third of your preventative care costs. We like the clear and transparent information on its website, with upfront cost and savings information on display.

AKC Plan Coverage

Two add-on wellness plans are available: Defender and DefenderPlus. Both plans cover many basic preventive care treatments, but DefenderPlus provides additional coverage for dental cleanings and spay or neuter surgery.

The Defender plan is more economical but offers less coverage. It covers the following treatments:

The DefenderPlus plan includes the same treatments with higher annual limits for most services. However, it includes limited coverage for a spay or neuter operation or teeth cleaning.

How We Ranked The Best Pet Wellness Plans

Many pet insurance providers offer comprehensive insurance options for pet owners, but few companies offer quality wellness plans that will guarantee savings. At MarketWatch Guides, we pride ourselves in providing the most accurate and up-to-date pet insurance cost information by manually gathering over 2,000 sample insurance premiums and comparing pet ownership costs. We used the following factors to help rank our top pet wellness plans:

• Cost of wellness add-on: We analyzed the average cost to add a wellness plan to base insurance coverage for each provider. Companies with lower wellness care add-on rates ranked higher than those offering expensive preventative care plans.
• Base plan monthly cost: Since cost is an important factor, pet insurance companies with cheaper monthly premiums ranked higher on our list. Our team analyzed four different types of pets across all 50 U.S. states to determine the average cost of each company. Cost figures are up-to-date as of November 2023.
• Two or more plan options: Providers that offer more than one wellness plan ranked higher than those with only one option. This allows pet owners who are only looking for pet wellness care coverage to select a plan more suited to their needs.
• Preventative care coverage: Providers with more comprehensive wellness care coverage, such as covering two versus one vet exam, three or more vaccines, and spay and neutering procedures, ranked higher than those with more limited coverage.
• Special perks: We ranked companies that offer more perks to pet owners, such as teeth cleaning and microchipping, higher than those with basic routine care coverage.
• Money-back guarantee: Given that the industry average money-back guarantee is 30 days, any company offering a longer guarantee earned a higher score in this category. 
• Our rating: Our team reviewed over 35 pet insurance companies using our objective rating methodology . Pet insurance providers that earned higher overall scores ranked higher on this list.

For more information on how we review pet insurance companies, review our editorial guidelines .

What's The Difference between Pet Insurance and Pet Wellness Plans?

Pet insurance plans typically cover costs associated with accidents and illnesses. They often don’t include wellness coverage unless you have it as an add-on. Pet insurance that covers routine care is associated with any routine expenses, such as your pet's annual check-up. 

The table below compares coverage for a pet insurance policy versus a pet wellness plan.

Watch the video below to learn more in-depth differences between pet insurance plans and preventative care plans by Heart and Paw .

What Does a Wellness Pet Insurance Plan Cover?

In contrast to pet health insurance, pet wellness plans provide an annual allowance for preventative care. This includes items like pest prevention, vaccination , fixing procedures and exam fees. Pet wellness plans typically cover the following:

• Annual check-ups
• Vaccinations
• Spaying and neutering
• Teeth cleaning
• Diagnostic testing
• Flea and tick prevention
• Heartworm prevention
• Other preventative medication
• 24/7 customer care
• Fecal testing and urinalysis

We asked Angela Beal, DVM, for the average cost of common wellness treatments based on her 20 years as a licensed veterinarian. Here’s what she said:

*Average cost is based on our conversation with Dr. Beal and may vary depending on your location, veterinary technician and pet.

What’s Not Covered by Pet Insurance Wellness Plans?

Wellness plans do not cover emergency vet care, which includes treatments related to the following:

• Other conditions are not considered preventative care

However, you can obtain coverage for accidents and illnesses, or just accidents, by purchasing a standard pet insurance policy.

How Much Do Pet Wellness Plans Cost?

The cost of pet wellness care will depend heavily on the provider and the amount of coverage included. Pet owners cannot buy just a pet wellness plan; they must also buy an accident-and-illness or accident-only insurance plan.

The cost for just a pet wellness plan add-on is typically under $20, ranging from $10-$19 for our top recommended companies. The cost ranges from around $41 to $67 for a basic pet insurance policy and a preventative care package.

Most pet insurance companies offer the same pet wellness plan option for all breeds. The table below has a breakdown of pet wellness plan costs and the overall cost of pet insurance and preventative care.

Many pet insurance companies offer two tiers of wellness coverage: A basic tier that typically ranges from $10-$22 per month and a more comprehensive package that averages $20-$35 per month. Which plan option you choose will depend on your exact preventative care needs.

Do Pet Wellness Plans Have Waiting Periods?

Every pet insurance company has waiting periods before coverage begins, which also applies to wellness plans. Pet insurance that covers routine care also has an average waiting period of one to two weeks. Be sure to enroll in a pet insurance plan with an additional wellness plan before starting routine care to receive coverage.

Do Pet Wellness Plans Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?

No, pet wellness plans don’t cover preexisting or chronic conditions. Unfortunately, no pet insurer currently covers pre-existing conditions . Insurance companies see pets with these medical conditions as costly and high-risk investments, especially since they’re guaranteed to need veterinary care in the foreseeable future.

However, some companies will distinguish between curable and incurable conditions, opting to cover curable conditions with specific stipulations. In addition, some routine treatments covered in wellness plans may help cure these conditions.

Is a Pet Wellness Plan Worth It?

A pet wellness plan can be worth it , especially if you have a young puppy or kitten, because oftentimes, you will get more use of your preventative pet insurance if you start your pet young. Though routine pet care costs less than surgeries or cancer treatments , you’ll ultimately spend more on preventive care throughout your pet’s lifetime if you don’t have a wellness plan.

According to health care financing company Care Credit , vet exams, core vaccinations , and procedures such as spaying or neutering and microchip implantations can total $2,800 in a puppy’s first year. The first-year cost for a cat is nearly $2,500.

If you paid $55 per month for a pet insurance plan with wellness care, you'd pay $660 over the course of a year for coverage rather than $2,800. That's $2,140 in savings!

Without a wellness plan, pet owners should plan to spend $7,600 to $19,000 in veterinary care over their cat or dog’s lifetime. An add-on wellness plan can help to offset the cost of annual preventive healthcare for your dog or cat through a low monthly fee added to your pet insurance premium. While it will not cover all expenses, it will help spread the cost out over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Wellness Plans

Do all pet insurance companies offer wellness plans.

No, not all pet insurance companies offer wellness plans. However, it is a quite common offering that most companies allow.

How do I enroll in a preventative care plan?

Most pet insurers allow you to enroll in a wellness plan by applying online or over the phone. The best time to obtain wellness coverage is when you sign up for pet insurance or renew your policy.

Do wellness plans cover neutering?

Yes, many pet wellness plans cover neutering. However, the neuter/spay package is often included in a higher tier preventative care plan or one made specifically for kittens or puppies. Be sure to check the coverages of your wellness plan before purchasing.

Does a wellness plan cover vet office visits for accidents?

No, treatments for accidents are not considered preventative care and are not covered under wellness plans. However, you can purchase accident-only pet insurance for this type of coverage.

What is a wellness package for dogs?

A wellness package for dogs is an add-on for dog insurance that expands coverage to include preventative care treatments like blood and urine tests, vaccinations and exam fees.

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

More Pet Insurance Resources

I have an 11-year-old dog — my pet insurance isn't cheap, but it's worth every penny

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• We pay $80 every other week for pet insurance that comes with a 70% reimbursement.
• Our dog is 11 years old, which makes pet insurance more expensive, but more essential.
• When he was hospitalized, it was such a relief to not have to think about the cost of his care.

Recently, my 11-year-old French bulldog was diagnosed with an enlarged liver. One x-ray, three prescriptions, and $500 later, I was never more relieved that we had pet insurance.

Here's why we've always opted for pet insurance for our furry friend, why we changed carriers a few times during his life, some unexpected perks of pet insurance, plus how much it's saved us each year.

We get 70% reimbursement after a $250 deductible

We pay around $80 every other week for our dog's pet insurance policy. It's deducted automatically from my husband's paycheck, since he gets a discount through work. (Worth noting, the premium is much higher than it was when he was a pup. Just like humans, the cost of insurance goes up as you age.)

His policy is through Nationwide Pet Insurance (yep, they have pet insurance, too!) and offers 70% reimbursement after we reach our $250 deductible.

It covers accidents such as broken bones, sprains, and ingested items; illnesses such as ear infections, vomiting, cancer, and diabetes; and wellness checkups and vaccinations, bloodwork, and heartworm and flea control. The annual maximum benefit is $7,500, so that's worth keeping in mind when faced with a major health event.

For an older dog, medical conditions could cost thousands

I always tell everyone my first baby wasn't a human. Rather, he came in the form of one very needy, adorable French bulldog. These days, he's considered a dog senior citizen. And while we've contemplated canceling his policy more than once, I'm so glad we didn't.

While my dog has been relatively healthy throughout his life, he's had a few medical conditions that we've had to deal with, such as some periodontal disease to recurring tail infections. These issues would have cost thousands of dollars in care, respectively, had we not had pet insurance.

We try to see a vet twice a year; French bulldogs are more likely than other breeds to deal with heatstroke, sensitive skin, ear infractions, and breathing issues, just to name a few. So it makes sense, both financially and from a health perspective, to stay on top of their veterinary care.

Like pugs, English bulldogs, and Boston terriers, French bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs. This means their snouts are shorter than other dogs', and they can have smaller nostrils and windpipes, which can translate into breathing issues or brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

These breeds are also more likely to deal with heat intolerance, skin issues, dental disease, and pneumonia. That's another reason we've always had pet insurance for our dog.

How much we've saved

Our little guy has been hospitalized once in his life for pancreatitis after eating one too many rogue meatballs our two-year-old dropped. He's also had recurring tail infections, many gastrointestinal issues, and now his liver issue. Each instance would have cost us thousands; instead, we've paid the $250 deductible and the remaining 30% of the vet bill, which cut our costs dramatically.

But we've shopped around over the course of his life, too. His first policy was through PetPlan, now called Fetch Pet Insurance . Fetch covers sick visits for your pet, plus dental disease and even breed-specific issues, though the premiums vary based on your dog's age and breed.

For older dogs, we found that Nationwide was much more cost-effective.  I also liked that the premium was deducted automatically from my husband's paycheck, so we didn't ever really miss that money.

I know pet insurance may seem like overkill to some. Plus, with an 11-year-old, high-maintenance breed, it certainly isn't cheap.

But to us, it's worth every penny, both financially and for peace of mind. The last time my dog was hospitalized, the emergency vet called me many times with updates and stressed to us how high the bill had gotten.

Being able to say to them, "No worries, we have pet insurance so most of it will be covered"? Priceless. 

Watch: This mystery canine illness spreading in dogs across the US

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

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

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

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

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

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

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

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

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

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

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Godzillas Hostel

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

• Towels Included

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

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

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

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

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

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

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

The Alexander Garden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ostankino Television Tower

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

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

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

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

Izmaylovo District

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

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

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

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

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

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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

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

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

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

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

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

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

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

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

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

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

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

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

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

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

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

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

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

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

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

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

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

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

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

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

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

How many days you need in Moscow?

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

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

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

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

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

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

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

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

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

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

Alya and Campbell

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Rent a Car in Moscow and other Russian Cities

Driving in Russia is very cheap: the petrol costs only about 60 ¢ per liter (€2 per gallon), the infrastructure is relatively good, and there's almost no road toll charges, so it's a great way to explore the country, especially if you're two or more.

In order to rent a car in Russia you just need your driving license (the plastic card one), a credit card, and your passport — no extra paperwork is needed (you don't even need a translation).

The insurance excess and security deposits are usually limited to about €200, and the daily rent is about €20 for a standard car and €30 for an SUV. We've partnered with the two biggest car rental aggregators, so you can use the form below to find the best car rental deals for Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities from major local and international providers, such as Hertz, Europcar, Avis and others.

Option #1: RentalCars.Com

Option #2: cartrawler.

Use this aggregator if you're renting a car for a longer period — two weeks and more — or if you're renting a car in Siberia.

Option #3: Car Sharing

Russia car rental faq.

• Moscow Airport Transfers
• Arrival and Departure: St. Petersburg Airport, Train Stations, and Bus Stations
• Arrival and Departure: Moscow Airports, Train Stations, Buses

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