trip protection worth it delta

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Whether it’s a canceled flight, lost baggage or an unexpected medical emergency, these events are not only disruptive, they can also be expensive. Purchasing a travel insurance plan can help mitigate some of the cost when your plans go awry.

According to Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site, travelers paid an average of $6,158 for a 16-day trip over the past year. That’s a lot of money on the table if an unexpected occurrence derails your plans.

One option to minimize this loss is purchasing travel insurance, such as coverage from Delta Air Lines’ plan. Here’s what to know about Delta’s trip protection policies.

Delta travel insurance plans

Delta offers international and domestic travel insurance that is administered by Allianz Global Assistance .

Its policies provide you reimbursement for some, or all, of your covered travel purchases and emergency medical expenses in the event of a disruption or delay.

Unlike dedicated travel insurance providers that offer annual or multi-trip plans , Delta’s plan is available for single-trip coverage only. However, you can purchase coverage for multiple individuals, as long as each person is named on the travel insurance plan.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

What does Delta travel insurance cover?

Delta’s travel insurance option can be a convenient way to secure travel insurance, and it provides coverage for quite a few common scenarios, such as delayed baggage, trip cancellation and medical expenses.

However, coverage levels for some benefits will vary depending on where you live.

Generally, Delta’s trip protection includes the following:

Trip cancellation and trip interruption. You’ll get the nonrefundable part of your prepaid reservation back if you need to cancel or cut your trip short unexpectedly due to a covered event. Delta’s coverage limits for trip cancellation and trip interruption are based on the limits set for the state you live in.

Emergency medical and dental protection. If you experience an emergency illness or injury while on your trip, Delta travel insurance covers up to $10,000 in medical and dental expenses you incur for a covered occurrence. 

Emergency medical transportation. You might not always be near a hospital or urgent care facility when you are injured. For example, hiking in a remote location may require an emergency helicopter ride to a hospital. In this scenario, Delta’s travel insurance offers an emergency medical transportation benefit of up to $50,000.

Travel delay. Travelers who experience a trip delay of six or more consecutive hours can receive meal and accommodation reimbursements. The maximum coverage limits depend on your state of residence. 

Lost or damaged baggage. If your baggage is lost, damaged or stolen, Delta travel insurance reimburses you up to $500 for your personal items.

Baggage delay. This protection covers you when you need to replace essential items in your baggage because your baggage was delayed for 24 hours or longer. You can submit a reimbursement claim for up to $100 per person.

Change fees. If you need to make changes to your trip itinerary for a covered reason and it results in change fees, Delta trip protection reimburses you for this fee.

Concierge. As a traveler with Delta travel insurance, you’ll receive concierge support to help make your trip less stressful. A concierge associate can help you book restaurant reservations, provide travel recommendations and more. 

24-hour hotline assistance. If you encounter an emergency and need medical, legal or travel assistance during your trip, Delta travel insurance provides around-the-clock access to an associate who can help.

What isn't covered by Delta travel insurance?

A Delta travel insurance plan includes many categories for single-trip coverage; however, certain things that impede your travel might not be covered. Below is a list of what isn't covered under Delta’s trip protection.

Losses due to known, foreseeable and expected events.

Losses due to government restrictions, travel advisories or warnings.

Losses due to personal fear of travel.

Trips canceled due to fear of COVID-19.

Although impacted trips due to COVID-19 generally aren't covered, travelers might receive temporary accommodation under Delta’s Epidemic Coverage Endorsement.

For example, if you or someone in your travel group tests positive or is diagnosed by a physician as having COVID-19, you might be eligible for some benefits, like trip cancellation reimbursement.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance: Which is right for you?

Delta international travel insurance cost

Plan rates for Delta trip protection vary based on the details of your trip — such as your destination and the total nonrefundable trip cost for all travelers — as well as your state of residence.

To get an accurate Delta travel insurance cost estimate for your upcoming flight with the carrier, use Delta’s trip protection quote tool online.

Delta also offers a window where you can cancel your trip protection plan and receive a full refund.

You must cancel your plan within 10 to 15 days of purchase (depending on your state). However, cancellations and refunds aren't available beyond this period or if you’ve already departed on your trip.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

Is Delta trip protection worth it?

Ultimately, deciding whether Delta’s trip protection plan makes sense starts by assessing your risk tolerance.

If you purchased a nonrefundable flight ticket, reflect on how your finances would be affected if you had to cancel your trip and were unable to recoup the cost.

Conversely, consider your immediate finances and whether you have the budget to pay for Delta’s travel protection upfront.

On top of factoring in risk tolerance and costs, it’s a good idea to compare Delta’s coverage and limits against other travel insurance companies.

Although two different policies might offer baggage loss coverage, for instance, one might offer a maximum coverage of $500 while another covers up to $3,000. Likewise, emergency medical coverage can run from $10,000 up to $500,000 or more, depending on the policy.

» Learn more: Best credit cards for travel insurance benefits

Delta’s travel protection plan is a type of travel insurance that reimburses you for a portion of your travel expenses if you need to cancel a trip or you experience covered interruptions. It also provides other protections, like reimbursement of emergency medical expenses or lost baggage while traveling.

It can be purchased in conjunction with a Delta flight, either at the time of booking or as an add-on for existing reservations.

Delta travel insurance plans are underwritten by BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company, depending on the state you live in. Allianz Global Assistance is the administrator of the plans.

Yes, if you cancel within an eligible timeframe, you can receive a refund for the Delta travel insurance plan. You have 10 to 15 days after purchasing your plan (depending on your state of residence) to cancel and receive a full refund.

However, if you’ve filed a claim or have already departed on your trip, Delta’s trip protection can’t be canceled and is nonrefundable.

Before purchasing Delta’s trip protection for your next vacation, consider the existing insurance coverage you have elsewhere.

For a domestic trip, your health insurance coverage may extend to other states. You may also receive travel insurance benefits through your credit card, which would be activated if you use that card to pay for your trip.

Although Delta’s travel insurance includes many coverage categories, you could find that its coverage maximum amounts might not be sufficient for your needs.

The peace of mind of having travel insurance can be worth it. However, it’s wise to compare travel insurance policies to find the most coverage possible at a cost that’s reasonable for your budget.

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Delta Trip Protection: A Guide to Coverage, Benefits & More

Last Updated on March 27, 2024 by Rick Spiegel

Your trips are more crucial to be spent in the best possible way so that you spend your time with your family and friends peacefully. Your trip must not go into any sort of nuisance as it might become an obstacle for you in your amazing journey. In addition to this, we want you to feel more secure and satisfactory mentally and have an appeasing trip without any worrisome thoughts.

To solve this problem here comes an option of Delta trip protection . In this guide, we will discover how it can help you with complications that can occur, the guiding principles for opting for this insurance, and what it covers.

Table of Contents

What is Delta Trip Protection?

It is a travel protection plan provided by Allianz Global Assistance to help in case you feel any sort of unsettling disturbances in your vacation or travel plan. 

 Know about the type of plan it offers to you:

• Travel Protection Plan PLUS 
• Travel Protection Plan. 

Here are the details for both of them:

What does Delta Trip Protection Cover?

Delta travel insurance is a suitable and befitting way to cover various potential issues that you might face on your travel occasions. Here are the following and how insurance plans can help you ou t.

Stolen Lost and Damaged Belongings

If your baggage items get lost due to any of the reasons Delta travel insurance compensates you up to $500 for your essential items.

Emergency Medical Conveyance

If you suffer from any medical emergency the insurance policy will help you cover the expenses of transportation.

Emergency Medical and Dental Help

Expenses will be reimbursed covering your medical and dental care.

Nonrefundable Travel Expense

You will get back the nonrefundable travel expense of your trip.

Compensation for meals and accommodation when travel is delayed for 6 or more consecutive hours.

Baggage Delay

If your luggage is late by 24 hours or more Delta Trip Protection will compensate you for the replacement of essential items.    

Budget Itinerary Fee Changes

In case you want a change in your fees and have a different budget the insurance will compensate you for that.

Cancellation of the Trip

Illness, injury, or a family emergency Delta travel insurance covers up to $10,000 for these issues.

Change in Fees

You will get back the fees if you need to change your Flight itinerary due to a covered reason. 

What Delta Trip Protection doesn’t include in its plan?

Travel plans affected due to covid 19 are not usually covered although if you test positive due to covid 19 you can avail some benefits like cancellation of trips and reimbursement. Loss incurred due to predictable circumstances and events, due to travel advisories or warnings and government restrictions, and due to fear of travel will not get compromised on delta travel insurance.

How to Purchase Delta Travel Insurance?

To find the perfect plan for yourself and get a quote about the estimated insurance cost for your trip you can get from here by answering the following:-

• Select your location 
• Select destination
• State of residence 
• Departure date
• Return date 
• Total trip cost
• Number of travelers 
• Trip purchase date

You can use Delta’s trip protection quote tool to get the correct estimate of the insurance cost of your flight. After filling out the information you will get a quote. After that click on the buy now button and you will have to fill in the Trip Details. You will then have to click on add to cart after which you can review the information and payment details if everything is correct then make the payment, and click on confirm.

If you wish to cancel your plan you can do it within 10 to 15 days of purchase (depending upon your state) . The delta travel insurance cost depends upon your travel plan information like your state of residence, travel plan information, and total nonrefundable trip cost.

How to Claim Delta Trip Protection?

If you need proof of the delay or cancellation of a flight you need to fill out a form that contains the following information and then shortly they will follow you up with the verification so that you can proceed with your trip insurance claim.

• First name 
• Last name 
• Country Region
• Street address 
• State 
• Postal code 
• Email address
• Airline Program 
• Frequent flyer number
• Country 
• Phone number
• Date of travel 
• flight number 
• Ticket number
• Origin 
• Destination

Is Delta Trip Protection Worth It?

Is Delta travel insurance worth it? In short, as we have discussed, Delta Travel insurance helps you to give certain benefits in case of problems and issues regarding things that can go wrong with your travel tour. However to conclude,  if it’s worth it or not it completely depends upon how much patience you have and how much you can strategize and take the risk according to your budget. You can always reflect upon and calculate that it doesn’t impact your budget and you can afford it as it is always good to have a trip insurance claim. 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

1. what is the meaning of delta trip protection.

Interruptions caused to you in your trip or any cancellation in your trip you will get a refund for a portion of your travel expenses through Delta trip protection.

2. What plans are included in Delta Travel Insurance? 

Delta travel insurance consists of the following plans

•  Travel Protection Plan. 

3. What does Delta Travel Insurance include in its plan?

• Stolen lost and damaged belongings
• Emergency medical conveyance
• Emergency medical and dental help
• Nonrefundable travel expense
• Baggage delay
• Budget itinerary fee changes
• Cancellation of trip
• Change in fees

4. What is not covered under the Delta Travel Insurance plan?

If you test positive for COVID-19, you can avail benefits like cancellation of trips and reimbursement for affected travel plans. However, such coverage is not usually offered for travel disruptions caused by COVID-19.

5. How to purchase Delta travel insurance?

To find the perfect plan for yourself and get a quote about the estimated delta trip protection cost for your destination trip you can get from their website by answering the travel questions.

After filling out the information you will get a quote. After that click on the buy now button and you will have to fill in the information of passengers who will be insured. You will then have to click on add to cart. You will review the information and payment details on a page, make the payment, and click on confirmation.

6. What is the process for claiming Delta Trip Protection during the cancellation of a flight?

In case of cancellation or delay in flight, you need to fill up a form and then you will be asked questions so that verification can be done and then you can proceed with Delta travel insurance claim.

7. Is Delta Travel Insurance worth having?

If you don’t have budget issues and can opt out of it then having insurance is always a good never a bad plan.

8. Which Insurance company does Delta Airlines use?

BCS Insurance Company and Jefferson Insurance Company are under use by Delta Insurance Company. Alliance Insurance Company is the administrator of Delta Airlines.

9. Does fear of travel come under Delta Travel Insurance? 

 Travel advisories or warnings and government restrictions due to fear of travel do not come under Delta travel insurance.

10. In how much time can we cancel Delta travel insurance?

If you wish to cancel your plan you can do it within 10 to 15 days of purchase (depending upon your state)

11. Is there any need for documentation in the Travel Protection Plan PLUS and Travel Protection Plan?

No, there is no need for documentation in the travel protection plan plus and travel protection plan.

Rick Spiegel

I'm Rick Spiegel, a dedicated traveler and writer with a passion for all things related to airline travel. My love for exploring new destinations and my commitment to helping fellow travelers navigate the skies have led me to create a space where you can find all the information you need to contact airlines and resolve air travel issues seamlessly. With years of experience in the aviation industry, I've made it my mission to provide you with expertly crafted airline travel guides, ensuring that your journeys are as smooth as possible.

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Is Delta Trip Protection Worth It? Exploring the Pros and Cons

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

When planning a trip, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important decisions is whether or not to purchase travel insurance. For those flying with Delta Airlines, this decision can be even more complicated due to Delta’s unique trip protection policies. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and costs of Delta Trip Protection, helping you decide if it’s right for you.

Delta Airline’s Trip Protection Policies

Delta Trip Protection is an optional add-on that provides travelers with additional coverage for their flights. The policy covers a variety of scenarios, including flight cancellations and delays, missed connections, baggage loss, and more. Customers have the option to purchase basic coverage or enhanced coverage, depending on their needs.

What Is Covered by Delta Trip Protection?

The exact coverage offered by Delta Trip Protection varies depending on the type of policy purchased. Basic coverage includes reimbursement for eligible expenses related to flight cancellations, delays, and missed connections, as well as baggage loss. Enhanced coverage also provides medical and dental coverage in the event of an accident or illness while traveling.

How Much Does Delta Trip Protection Cost?

The cost of Delta Trip Protection depends on the type of coverage purchased and the length of the trip. Basic coverage typically costs around $25 per person, per round-trip flight, while enhanced coverage can cost up to $50 per person, per round-trip flight. Prices may vary based on the destination and the terms of the policy.

Deciding Whether Delta Trip Protection Is Right for You

Before deciding whether or not to purchase Delta Trip Protection, it’s important to analyze your travel needs. Consider the type of trip you’re taking and the potential risks involved. Ask yourself if you would be able to afford any unexpected expenses that may arise without the additional coverage.

Considering Alternatives to Delta Trip Protection

In addition to Delta Trip Protection, there are several other options available for travelers seeking additional coverage. Many credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance, while other third-party providers may offer more comprehensive coverage at a lower cost. It’s important to compare different options and determine which one best fits your needs.

Comparing Delta’s Trip Protection to Other Airlines’ Offerings

When considering Delta Trip Protection, it’s also important to compare it to other airlines’ offerings. Different airlines have different levels of coverage, so it’s important to understand the differences between them. Additionally, prices can vary greatly from airline to airline, so it’s important to compare costs to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Examining Different Types of Coverage

It’s important to understand the various types of coverage offered by different airlines. For example, some policies may provide coverage for lost or damaged luggage, while others may not. Additionally, some policies may include medical and dental coverage, while others may not. Understanding the different types of coverage will help you make an informed decision about which policy is right for you.

Comparing Prices

When comparing different airlines’ travel insurance policies, it’s important to consider both the coverage offered and the price. While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest option, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the coverage you need. Use online comparison tools to evaluate different policies side-by-side and make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Examining Delta’s Trip Protection Coverage in Detail

Once you’ve decided to purchase Delta Trip Protection, it’s important to examine the coverage in detail. Read the policy carefully to ensure you understand the terms and conditions. Be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear. Additionally, take advantage of any additional benefits that may be included in the policy, such as rental car coverage or 24/7 customer service.

Reviewing Customer Experiences with Delta Trip Protection

Finally, it’s important to review customer experiences with Delta Trip Protection. Look for reviews online and read through them to identify common issues. Additionally, research customer satisfaction ratings to get a better idea of how the policy is performing. This can help you make an informed decision about whether or not Delta Trip Protection is right for you.

Deciding whether or not to purchase Delta Trip Protection can be a difficult decision. By understanding the types of coverage offered, comparing prices to other airlines, and examining customer experiences, you can make an informed decision about whether or not the policy is right for you. Ultimately, only you can decide if Delta Trip Protection is worth it.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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TRIP PROTECTION

Why Trip Protection?

• Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption protection
• Emergency Medical and Dental protection
• 24/7 emergency assistance and concierge services anywhere in the world

Our Promise to You

• MANAGE YOUR POLICY> opens in a new tab
• CUSTOMER SUPPORT> opens in a new tab
• FILE A CLAIM> opens in a new tab

What Are My Options?

International.

Stay safe while traveling abroad. The U.S. State Department recommends trip protection because most health insurance policies won't cover you outside the country. If you have a covered medical emergency outside the United States, travel insurance can help you find a hospital, pay for your treatment, and you get you home safely. It also comes with trip cancellation protection, emergency medical protection, 24-hour assistance and concierge services, and more.

Emergency Medical And Dental

Reimburses expenses related to covered emergency medical or dental care incurred on your trip.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Arranges and pays for medically necessary transportation following a covered injury or illness to an appropriate medical facility to receive care and get you home after treatment.

Trip Cancellation Protection

Reimburses your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason.

Trip Interruption

Reimburses the unused, nonrefundable portion of your trip and increased transportation costs it takes for you to return home or to continue your trip due to a covered reason.

Travel/Trip Delay

Reimburses meals and accommodations when your travel is delayed for 6 or more consecutive hours.

Baggage Loss/Damage

Reimburses the replacement of lost, damaged, or stolen luggage and personal effects.

Baggage Delay

Reimburses the replacement of essential items if your luggage is delayed for 24 hours or more.

Reimburses airline fees if you need to make a change to your flight itinerary due to a covered reason.

Turn your trip into a VIP experience. Our travel experts can give you destination information, make restaurant reservations, find tickets to shows, and more.

24-Hour Hotline Assistance

Help is just a phone call away. Our staff of multilingual problem solvers is available to help you with medical, legal, and travel-related emergencies.

Worry less about the unexpected. Trip protection can prepare you for unforeseen circumstances that can disrupt your travel plans. Wherever you're flying, travel insurance can provide the peace of mind you need to get the most out of your trip. It comes with trip cancellation protection, emergency medical protection, 24-hour assistance and concierge services, and more.

Find a plan for you

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Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, including for pre-existing conditions.

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

Important changes to Delta Comfort+™

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions.This means now it's even easier to secure a seat in Delta Comfort+™. For award travel reservations, please make sure to select Delta Comfort+™ directly from Flight Results as you will be unable to select it in the seat map.

See what else is changing and learn how it affects you opens in a new window

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions. To enjoy extra legroom, Sky Priority® boarding access and complimentary beer, wine, & spirits, select the upgrade banner below and continue with your purchase.

Important Changes to Delta Comfort+™

Because Delta Comfort+™ is now a separate fare, the upgrade policy has changed. Similar to First Class, Medallion members are eligible for complimentary upgrades if they opt in. Upgrade preferences can be managed in My Trips.

Based on availability, Diamond and Platinum members are eligible to receive a complimentary upgrade at any point after they have opted in. Gold Medallion members may receive an upgrade within 72 hours of departure, and within 24 hours for Silver Medallion members. Upgrades are automatic, and customers will be notified via email.

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions.Complimentary upgrades to Delta Comfort+™ are still available for eligible customers. To ensure that you are placed in the queue for a complimentary Delta Comfort+™ or First Class upgrade, please check the box(es) in the Request Upgrade section below.

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions. To book a seat in Delta Comfort+™ please return to the Flight Results page. You may also complete your purchase and upgrade your itinerary in My Trips at a later date.

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions.To enjoy extra legroom, Sky Priority® boarding access and complimentary beer, wine, & spirits, select the upgrade banner below to upgrade your itinerary.

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions. The option to purchase Delta Comfort+™ may not be available on all flights.

Delta Comfort+ is an option for booking along with Main Cabin and First Class for travel within the U.S. 50 and Canada. Effective May 21,2016 for travel departing on or after September 19, 2016, Delta Comfort+ will also be available in booking for select flights to and from the Asia Pacific and Latin America/Caribbean regions. This means it's now even easier to secure a seat in Delta Comfort+™. For award travel reservations, please select Delta Comfort+™ directly from Flight Results.

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Is Flight Insurance Worth It? Protect Your Trip and Your Wallet

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Best Flight Insurance for Cancel for Any Reason: battleface

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Air travel can present unexpected circumstances, including cancellations, delays, missed connections, and lost or delayed baggage. At the same time, flights may be the most costly part of your trip budget. This can present a high-stakes scenario where you’ve spent a lot on airline tickets but risk situations that can interfere with your travel plans. 

Flight insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances that could cost you, whether it’s cancellation or lost bags, generally offering reimbursement for your nonrefundable costs when air travel goes awry. You can get flight insurance when you book with an airline or online travel booking site or you can select a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes air travel from a travel insurance company.

This guide explores options for the best flight insurance, how it works, when to buy it, and what to look for in a flight insurance policy. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or only occasionally take to the skies, read on to understand how flight insurance can offer financial protection and peace of mind.

The 5 Best Flight Insurance Plans

Comprehensive travel insurance policies generally include flights, so you have extensive options for flight insurance. Consider these flight insurance plans that offer a good value for coverage, as quoted for a 40-year-old visiting Japan on a $2,500 trip:

With the battleface Discovery Plan , you can get covered for trip cancellation, including Cancel for Any Reason coverage, which offers reimbursement of up to 75% of your trip cost if you need to cancel your travel plans (50% in Florida). Cancellation is all our quote included, but there are optional add-ons for trip interruption, medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation, travel and baggage delays, and more. Our quote for this policy came to $61.82.

A Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection ExactCare Value flight insurance policy covers up to 100% of your trip cost for trip cancellation and interruption, including COVID-19 coverage. That includes cancellations for getting laid off or medical reasons. You also get up to $15,000 for emergency medical treatment and $150,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation benefits. Travel delay benefits are up to $500 for delays after a 12-hour delay with a $100 daily limit, and baggage delays are for up to $200 per person after a 24-hour delay. If your baggage or personal items are lost, you can get reimbursed up to $750. We received a quote for $54 on this policy.

The Travelex Travel Basic flight insurance policy covers up to $500 for missed connections after a 3-hour delay and offers up to $500 for travel delays and $100 for baggage delays. Trip cancellation and interruption cover up to 100% of your trip cost, including employment layoff or medical reasons. You’ll get up to $15,000 in primary emergency medical coverage and up to $100,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. This policy was quoted at $87.

The AXA Assistance USA Silver plan can offer good coverage if baggage protection is a priority. It has up to $750 in baggage and personal item loss coverage and a $200 baggage delay benefit after a 24-hour delay. The policy also offers trip cancellation and interruption coverage, emergency medical, and medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. Travel delays are covered up to $500 after a 12-hour delay, as are missed connections for cruises and tours after a 3-hour delay. Our quote for this policy came to $78.

If you’re concerned about a serious accident on your flight, a policy with an accidental death and dismemberment benefit could give you some peace of mind. The Generali Global Assistance policy offers $50,000 in accidental death and dismemberment benefits if you’re killed or seriously injured on your flight. Additional benefits include trip cancellation for up to 100% of your trip cost and trip interruption for up to 125% of your trip cost. There’s up to $50,000 in emergency medical benefits and up to $250,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. Additional benefits include travel and baggage delay, missed connections, and baggage and personal item loss. We were quoted $86.25 for this policy.

What Is Flight Insurance?

Flight insurance, also known as flight protection or flight cancellation insurance, provides coverage for the cost of your flight, offering reimbursement for nonrefundable flight costs if your flight plans are disrupted. Generally, flight insurance policies cover flight cancellations and delays, missed connections, diversions, and unexpected illness or injury before your departure.

You can purchase flight insurance as a standalone policy, usually from an airline’s travel insurance provider or third-party travel booking sites, or get a comprehensive travel insurance plan directly from a travel insurance company.

Flight insurance offers coverage for flight-related disruptions and emergencies . Generally, the insurer will send you quotes and policy terms, after which you can purchase coverage and proceed with travel. If you don’t experience any issues, you won’t need to file a claim. But if you do need your flight insurance for an illness, flight delay, or cancellation, you can contact the insurance provider to file a claim. 

Though a canceled or delayed flight could cost you more than just the flight in nonrefundable hotel nights or missed tours, standalone flight insurance generally only reimburses you for up to the cost of your flight.

You can generally buy flight insurance up to the day before departure, but it’s best to get your flight insurance as soon as you book your flight. The earlier you have flight insurance coverage, the better because unforeseen circumstances could interfere with your trip at any point.

You probably don’t need flight insurance if you’ve purchased a flight ticket that offers free changes or cancellations . And you won’t get much out of flight insurance if you’ve booked award flights using points or miles as currency. Also, consider your credit card benefits: You might not need to purchase flight insurance if your credit card offers adequate travel protection benefits.

Any of these are good reasons not to get flight insurance. But if you don’t have ticket flexibility or helpful credit card travel protections, getting flight insurance can offer major savings if you run into unexpected situations with your flight. 

Flight insurance can be particularly valuable if you have travel with multiple connections, expensive tickets, or you’re taking an international trip.

For example, if you get sick and need to cancel your trip, flight insurance can reimburse you for what’s probably a major cost of your travel: nonrefundable flight bookings. Or if flight delays cause you to miss a connection, you can get reimbursed if you have to pay to rebook a different flight.

While worth it, flight insurance is limited compared to comprehensive travel insurance plans that cover not just flights but nonrefundable payments on lodging, tours, and more, along with medical emergency coverage. Compare the costs, and you may find more value in getting comprehensive travel insurance to cover all of your nonrefundable travel expenses.

Booking with points or miles? Travel insurance policies typically only reimburse nonrefundable cash costs, so don’t count on using flight insurance to get your rewards reinstated.

What Flight Insurance Covers

Flight insurance generally covers financial risks related to air travel, particularly cancellations, delays, missed connections, and baggage loss or delay. Comprehensive plans usually cover medical emergencies and accidents. Let’s look more at these coverage areas:

• Accidents: Flight insurance can offer a benefit payment if there’s an accident that results in death or serious injuries to the insured on your flight.
• Baggage Delay or Loss: You can get reimbursed for expenses related to lost, damaged, or delayed baggage with flight insurance.
• Medical Coverage: Flight insurance can cover medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation if you become sick or injured on a flight.
• Missed Connection: Flight insurance can reimburse you for the cost of rebooking a flight after you miss a connection due to circumstances beyond your control.
• Trip Cancellation: Flight insurance can reimburse you if you need to cancel a nonrefundable flight for covered reasons such as illness, injury, or a death in the family.
• Trip Delay: If you experience a significant flight delay or cancellation, flight insurance can cover expenses for transportation, accommodations, and meals.
• Trip Interruption: If you unexpectedly need to fly home early, flight insurance can cover additional return trip costs and refund the unused portion of your nonrefundable flights.

You can purchase standalone flight insurance , which usually just covers your flight. This type of flight insurance is often available from airlines or third-party travel booking sites. Another option is comprehensive travel insurance , which covers flights and other nonrefundable travel expenses, generally available directly from travel insurance companies.

Purchasing an annual travel insurance policy may be cost-effective if you fly frequently. With annual travel insurance, you can pay once to get covered for all the flights and other travel you do within the coverage period.

As you compare flight insurance policies, consider key factors that can help you determine which insurance policy offers the most value for your needs:

• Costs: Compare how much each policy is and weigh coverage and benefits against costs.
• Coverage: Compare coverage areas, including trip cancellation and interruption, medical, baggage, and flight accident coverage.
• Coverage Limits: Understand the maximum benefit for coverage, particularly medical and trip cancellation expenses.
• Customer Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews to learn about a provider and how the insurance company handles claims, customer service, and support.
• Deductibles: Find out whether there are deductibles for any coverage areas where you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
• Exclusions: Be clear about what is and isn’t covered, checking the policy’s exclusions, such as preexisting medical conditions or certain trip cancellation reasons.

What Flight Insurance Costs

Plan to pay between 5% to 10% of your insured costs for flight insurance. For example, if your flight costs $1,000, you’ll pay between $50 and $100 for flight insurance. 

The cost of flight insurance can vary depending on several factors, including your age, how much your flight costs, how much coverage you want, how long your trip is, the insurance provider, and add-ons such as being able to cancel for any reason.

Flight protection could be free depending on which credit cards you have. Many credit cards offer trip protection benefits for no additional cost. Credit card travel protection benefits often include coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions , trip delays , lost or delayed baggage , and travel accidents . That could cover you if you need to cancel or adjust your flight, experience delays, or have lost or delayed baggage issues.

Whether you book directly with the airline or a third-party travel booking site, you may be offered flight insurance when you book your flight. You’ll generally see flight protection as an add-on at checkout . It depends on the airline and insurance provider whether the flight insurance you’re offered at booking is standalone flight insurance or comprehensive travel insurance.

You can also shop for flight insurance or comprehensive travel insurance directly from travel insurance companies or get quotes from travel insurance aggregator sites such as Squaremouth . Using an insurance comparison site, you can more easily compare policies and find the best coverage for your needs.

An insurance broker or agent can also help you compare and select travel insurance policies.

Remember that you may have flight protection coverage available through your credit card benefits . If your credit card offers travel protection, you must book your flight with that credit card for the coverage to be valid. Be sure you understand the coverage and limitations of your credit card travel protection.

These are some of your options if you purchase flight insurance from the airline or an online travel booking site:

Curious how flight insurance from airlines compares to buying directly from travel insurance companies? You can easily get quotes from multiple insurance companies at once using comparison sites such as Squaremouth .

If you’ve laid out a lot of cash for upcoming air travel, flight insurance can provide you with a financial safety net if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip or run into snags along the way. Whether you get standalone flight insurance or a comprehensive travel insurance policy, including flights, flight insurance can protect you from the significant costs of travel disruptions. Consider whether you need flight insurance, and if you decide you do, do your research to find the best policy for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does flight insurance cover cancellation.

Flight insurance generally covers flight cancellations for specific reasons that the policy will list. For example, you can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable flight costs if you experience an illness, injury, or death in the family.

Does travel insurance cover missed flights?

Travel insurance covers missed flights only for reasons such as severe weather, transportation breakdowns, accidents, or missed connections. Be sure to read the terms of the policy to see what’s covered.

Can I add insurance to my flight after booking?

Yes, you can add insurance to your flight when you book it or after you complete your booking. Airlines and online travel booking sites may offer flight insurance when you book your flight, or you can get quotes from travel insurance companies after you’ve booked.

How much money will I lose if I cancel my flight?

How much you’ll lose if you cancel your flight depends on whether you have a refundable ticket and flexibility in rebooking. You could lose the entire booking cost if you’re traveling on a nonrefundable fare that doesn’t allow you to rebook using credit from your canceled flight.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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4 times you can skip travel insurance—and 3 times you should buy it

If you're going on vacation this summer, you've probably already booked some of the key elements, like your flight or cruise. But have you purchased travel insurance? Travel sites make it pretty easy these days to add trip protection to your purchase, but what does that fee get you, and when is the extra cost actually worth it?

There are generally two kinds of trip insurance:

• Basic trip cancellation protection , which usually covers lost bags, reimbursements if you miss a connection and a refund if you can't travel because you're sick or hurt.
• Comprehensive travel insurance , which typically covers all that, plus any expenses related to medical or dental emergencies, disaster evacuations and even costs associated with accidental deaths. Basically this is a combo of travel and medical costs.

If you're going to get trip or travel insurance (the two terms are pretty much interchangeable), experts usually recommend the comprehensive kind. You can even purchase a policy that comes with a "cancel for any reason" safeguard, which is ideal if you're traveling to places that might experience political unrest.

If you haven't paid extra for the "cancel for any reason" policy, you'll likely encounter strict guidelines for when you're eligible for reimbursement. For example, if you get sick before a trip, you'll need to get a doctor's note before cancelling if you want to be reimbursed.

"Do a little bit of homework as to how much risk you're even taking on so you can make an informed decision," Maria Teresa Hart, executive editor of the hotel review site Oyster.com, tells CNBC Make It .

All-in-one policies cost about 56 percent more than basic trip insurance, according to an analysis by finance research site ValuePenguin of the top 50 offerings on the market. You can expect to spend, on average, $164 for each. For those on a tight budget, that extra money can be the difference between being able to afford a fancy dinner or a nice hotel and not being able to splurge. So it pays to know when you really need to spend on extra protection.

When You Don't Need It 

Consider your vacation an investment. Would you be OK losing that money? On a whole, if you're spending a relatively small sum on your trip, insuring that investment is probably not worth it.

• Skip It: For U.S. travel

Traveling to Florida? Road-tripping around the American Southwest? You can probably skip any extra insurance. Travel within the U.S. is typically a less expensive investment — and most people tend to plan only a few weeks in advance. ValuePenguin estimates the average domestic trip spans about four days and costs $576 per person.

Plus, if you have medical insurance, you're typically covered for any emergencies that occur. As always, double check the fine print, but experts generally recommend opting out of trip insurance for short trips within the U.S.

• Skip It: If your card offers it

Check your wallet before buying any travel insurance, since some credit cards actually offer it as a perk. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card offers built-in trip interruption insurance that reimburses up to $10,000 per person if your trip is cancelled or cut short because of situations such as an illness or severe weather. The Citi Prestige and Citi ThankYou Premier cards also offer baggage and trip cancellation protection.

So even if you are traveling outside the U.S., if your credit card's coverage is thorough, you won't need to purchase anything extra.

• Skip It: For flights

It can tempting to purchase trip cancellation insurance when a flight costs hundreds or thousands of dollars. But the basic policies are usually not worth your money to insure just your flight if you know your rights as a passenger .

For example, if your flight is cancelled, you're generally entitled to have the next available seat on the next available flight going to your destination. Having insurance is not going to make much difference in getting you re-booked faster, Hart says.

Depending on your destination, if you do experience significant delays or the flight is cancelled, you could be entitled to compensation — no insurance needed. When you return from vacation, check with AirHelp . If you're eligible, the service will work to secure you a pay out (the company takes 25 percent of any compensation won).

If you do need to get to your destination at a specific time, say, for a cruise departure, simply taking the next flight out may not work. Especially if you're on a budget airline that only offers a limited number of flights and routes. In that case, consider using a service like FreeBird . The service allows passengers to re-book cancelled or significantly delayed domestic flights on any airline starting at $19 per leg.

• Skip It: Just for flexibility

Trip insurance should not be used to just so you can keep your options open. "Some people make that mistake; they think of it as kind of a cancellation policy," Hart says. That can be a waste of money, especially when it comes to your hotel. Instead of purchasing a whole comprehensive policy, opt for a hotel reservation with free cancellation right up until your stay.

When You Do Need It

The general rule is that you'll need to buy emergency medical or evacuation insurance when going out of the U.S., Rick Garlick, a hospitality and travel expert with Magid Associates, tells CNBC Make It . "Insurance is much more necessary on international versus domestic trips, particularly ones you have to plan far in advance," he says.

• Buy It: For international trips

For the most part, international vacations are more expensive than domestic trips, typically because Americans stay longer. International trips last about 12 days on average and cost $3,242 per person, according to ValuePenguin.

Travellers also tend to book trips outside the U.S. much further in advance — and for good reason. To get a good deal on an international flight, you'll need to book almost five months beforehand on average, according to CheapAir.com .

Because of the advanced planning and the cost, you should definitely consider spending for comprehensive coverage that will cover you in a wide range of situations. "Personally, if I were paying for 70 percent to 80 percent of my trip upfront, I'd consider trip insurance," Hart says.

• Buy It: For medical reasons

Sunbathing on the white sand beaches of Phuket, Thailand, or hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu could be once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But if something goes wrong in a faraway place, medical help may be difficult to come by, and it could be expensive, too. That's when a comprehensive travel insurance policy can come in handy: It can help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

Keep in mind that most people's medical insurance — with the exception of Medicare — will pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, especially if you're in major city like London. But if you run into a serious issue, the bills can add up quick. For example, medical evacuation can cost more than $50,000, depending on your location and medical condition, according to the U.S. State Department .

• Buy It: For cruises

Cruises hit all the major areas where comprehensive travel insurance is recommended: a big, upfront payment, international travel and higher risk of problems. So experts like Colleen McDaniels of Cruise Critic say it's best to insure this type of vacation with a comprehensive plan.

It's OK to go through the cruise company, too. There isn't much of a difference between the insurance options offered by the cruise lines directly when you're booking — often referred to as vacation protection packages — and the options available through outside insurance companies like AIG and Allianz or Travel Insured.

While you should always check the fine print, most of these policies are comprehensive and cover a wide range of situations, including hurricanes. The 2017 season was pretty active, leaving over 450,000 cruisers affected by storms. Cruising during hurricane season can net you some good deals, but that's definitely when you need insurance. And buy it ahead of time. Once the storm is spotted and named, you can't get insurance.

"It's a good way of protecting your investment and making sure that if things go wrong, you have options to help you out so you're not on the hook for exorbitant fees," McDaniels says.

Don't miss: Here's the best credit card for international travel

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Travel Insurance

What is flight insurance?

Jennifer Simonson

Heidi Gollub

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

Jennifer Lobb

Updated 4:03 a.m. UTC Jan. 24, 2024

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• Flight insurance is coverage that protects the cost of your nonrefundable flight.
• You can buy flight insurance through an airline or from a third-party travel insurance company.
• You may not need flight insurance if you purchase a ticket that allows for free changes and cancellation, or if you already have coverage through your credit card.  

You’re finally ready to pull the trigger to buy airline tickets for the big vacation you’ve been planning. Before you can complete the purchase, you’re prompted to consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind. 

The website copy likely says that flight insurance is “highly recommended” to protect your trip against unexpected circumstances. But what exactly is flight insurance, what does it cover and how necessary is it? 

Compare the best travel insurance offers

Travel insured.

Via TravelInsurance.com’s website

Top-scoring plan

Worldwide Trip Protector

Covers COVID?

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$100,000/$1 million

Atlas Journey Preferred

Seven Corners

RoundTrip Basic

$500,000/$1 million

What is flight insurance? 

Basic flight insurance protects the cost of your flight should the unexpected occur . When purchasing an airline ticket, flight insurance is typically offered as an add-on directly from the airline or from third-party sites such as Expedia or Travelocity. You can also buy flight insurance directly from some travel insurance companies. 

Having flight insurance does not mean you can cancel your trip for any reason and expect a refund. Depending on the details of your policy, you may be able to recoup 100% of your pre-paid, non-refundable flight cost in the following situations:

• Severe weather or a natural disaster. 
• Equipment failure that causes a long tarmac delay.
• Unexpected flight delays that result in a missed connection.
• A mid-flight emergency that forces you to land at a different airport than originally planned. 
• Death of a family member or traveling companion. 
• Unexpected job loss before your trip.
• Unexpected illness or injury prior to departure.
• You are called for jury duty before your flight. 

Read the change and cancellation policies of the airline when considering if you need to buy flight insurance. Southwest Airlines’ consumer-friendly policies already include the ability to change or cancel a flight for any reason up until 10 minutes before the departure time. However, depending on the type of ticket you buy, you may get a flight credit when you cancel, rather than a refund. 

Know more about airfares: Airfares

What does flight insurance cover? 

Flight insurance typically covers you for unexpected events related to air travel. Policies range from offering straightforward refunds for airline tickets to coverage for lost or damaged luggage. 

Depending on your policy, flight insurance benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation coverage . If you need to cancel your trip for a reason listed in your policy, you can get reimbursed for all prepaid, nonrefundable flight expenses. 
• Trip delay. If you are stranded in transit due to a reason in your policy, you can be reimbursed for extra expenses you incur. This coverage usually begins after you have been delayed for a certain period of time, such as six hours, and has a daily maximum, such as $150. 
• Trip interruption. If you need to cut your trip short for a covered reason, your non-refundable trip costs and any additional transportation expenses — such as a last-minute one-way economy ticket home — could be covered. 
• Lost or damaged luggage. Some flight insurance plans include reimbursement for lost, stolen or damaged luggage. This is generally secondary insurance, so you would have to file a claim with the airline or your homeowners insurance first. 

If you want more comprehensive coverage, it can pay to shop around before buying the flight insurance offered through the airline’s website. Determine which benefits are important to you and compare policies and prices before buying. 

Related: Flight cancellations

How much is flight insurance? 

The cost of flight insurance varies depending on the plan you select, your total trip cost, your age and the length of your trip. But the cost will be low compared to the cost of the flight. For instance, flight insurance from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s Aircare plan might be $26 for a $1,000 trip. 

It’s worth noting, however, that the average cost of travel insurance is $61 for a $1,000 trip. Spending the extra money on a more comprehensive travel insurance plan could get you a great deal more in coverage while you’re traveling, including emergency medical, dental and medical evacuation. 

How does flight insurance work? 

When you’re buying an airline ticket you will often see an option to add trip insurance on the checkout page. Each airline uses a different flight insurance provider. For example, United offers a Travel Guard travel insurance plan through AIG Travel while Delta uses Allianz Global Assistance. 

Airlines and third-party travel companies can offer drastically different policies, so it is important to read the fine print before selecting a policy to purchase. 

Like Delta, American Airlines offers comprehensive trip insurance through Allianz Global Assistance. Allianz trip insurance pays if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip due to a reason listed in your policy, such as illness, injury or jury duty. 

Travel insurance from Allianz also includes emergency medical benefits, trip interruption coverage, reimbursement of necessary meals and accommodations if your flight is delayed for more than six hours for a covered reason and reimbursement for lost, damaged or stolen luggage during your trip.

Allegiant on the other hand offers basic flight insurance called Trip Flex. Trip Flex allows you to change your flight or postpone your trip without paying the $75 change fee. You can only make one itinerary modification. The modification can be made up to one hour prior to departure for airline ticket purchases and up to 72 hours prior to departure for air/hotel package purchases. Additional restrictions include holiday travel periods and flight promos or sales.

Know more about flight statistics: Flight statistics

Is flight insurance worth it?  

Flight insurance is not always worth the investment. If your trip includes other nonrefundable bookings, such as hotel stays, car rentals and excursions, you would be better off purchasing a standalone travel insurance policy to cover the entire trip. 

You may also be able to rely on your credit card for coverage. Some credit cards include trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, lost luggage insurance and trip delay reimbursement, if you pay for the trip using your card. This makes it possible to safeguard your flight without purchasing a separate flight insurance policy. Check your credit card benefits to determine if this coverage is available to you. 

If your flight is the only nonrefundable expense for your upcoming trip and you do not have a credit card that includes trip cancellation insurance, flight insurance may be worth it.

Flight insurance FAQs

It is best to buy flight insurance the same day you purchase your airline ticket, whether you buy it through the airline or directly from a travel insurance company. This ensures the cost of your ticket is covered and provides a longer coverage window for trip cancellation benefits.

Many travel insurance companies offer a free look period of 14 or 15 days, which allows you to review your policy and request a refund if you are not satisfied. This time period begins when you purchase the insurance policy and ends at a time determined by your travel insurance provider. 

For example, Allianz Global Assistance offers a 15-day review period in most states.

Most airlines allow you to cancel an airline ticket within the first 24 hours after purchase and get a full refund. After the first 24 hours, many airlines charge fees to cancel or change pre-existing airline reservations, depending on the type of ticket you purchase. 

Southwest Airlines is one of the only airlines to allow customers to cancel or change airline reservations without penalty, although refunds are only available for certain types of tickets. You may receive a flight credit rather than a refund, depending on the ticket type you purchase. 

Editor’s Note: This article contains updated information from previously published stories:

• Five-hour wait times, flight shopping and a rental car rush: Southwest cancellations send travelers scrambling
• Southwest Airlines flight woes continue: 1,000 Sunday cancellations … and counting

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

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

Jennifer Simonson covers everything from business to the wine industry to international travel. Outdoor adventure, water parks and all things Texas are by far her favorite beats. Her work has appeared in Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Texas Monthly, Smithsonian Magazine, Fodor's, Lonely Planet, Slate and more. You can follow her on Instagram at @storiestoldwell.

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

Jennifer Lobb is deputy editor at USA TODAY Blueprint and is an experienced insurance and personal finance writer. Jennifer served as an insurance staff writer and editor at U.S. News and World Report and deputy editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor. She also spent several years covering finance and insurance for various financial media sites, including LendingTree and Investopedia. For nearly a decade, she’s helped consumers make educated decisions about the products that protect their finances, families and homes.

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The Pros and Cons of the Delta Reserve Card From American Express

By Kim Hawk

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Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Compensation does not impact how or where cards appear on the site. We don't review or include all companies, or all available products. Moreover, the editorial content on this page was not provided by any of the companies mentioned and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of Condé Nast Traveler's editorial team.

My introduction to travel credit cards began with Delta co-branded American Express cards. In 2008, I signed up for the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card during a flight to Puerto Rico . Fast forward to 2023, and I upgraded from the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card to the Delta Reserve® Credit Card from American Express to maintain Medallion status and access to Delta Sky Clubs. This upgrade made perfect sense as I fly Delta often—my home airport happens to be the airline's main hub. Signing up for this card even rewarded me with enough points for a round-trip flight from Atlanta to Paris .

This card is a no-brainer if you’re a Delta loyalist like me, but it can be a good option for other frequent travelers, too. Keep reading to learn about the card's benefits and determine whether it's worth adding to your wallet.

Is the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card worth the $650 annual fee?

Shortly after I signed up for the card, Delta announced an increase in the annual fee from $550 to $650. Initially, I was disappointed, but the more I understood the increase in benefits that come with the price tag, the more I realized this card is worth the hefty fee. Before upgrading from the Delta SkyMiles Platinum to the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card, I considered a few factors. At the time, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex had an annual fee of $250 (it’s now $350). While I had the card, I paid for entry into the SkyClub a few times. At $50 per visit, that added up.

With access to SkyClubs included with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex card and the enhanced companion pass, frequent use of the perks easily offset the $650 annual fee.

Additionally, while this card does not offer a high mileage earning rate per dollar spent (more on that below), it does help me reduce flight costs. I usually pair the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card or the IHG® Rewards Club Premier Credit Card to maximize my travel savings.

Another important factor is that this card accelerates the attainment of Silver Medallion status by providing $2,500 toward the $5,000 MQD requirement (I’ll explain this further below too). Because it's the lower tier, people often overlook the perks of Silver Medallion status, but they're worthwhile for frequent fliers: Cardholders get priority boarding and a discount on CLEAR Plus membership , which renews each year you have the card.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card benefits and perks

• Luxury lounge access: Cardholders get complimentary unlimited access to Delta Sky Clubs and American Express Centurion Lounges, and will receive four one-time-use guest passes each year. Starting on February 1, 2025, the unlimited access benefit will be reduced to 15 visits per year unless you spend $75,000 or more in eligible purchases on the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. After the 15 visits have been exhausted, you can purchase additional visits at $50 per person.
• Medallion Status fast track: Recently, Delta revamped its system for earning medallion status in 2025 and beyond. Previously, to earn Medallion status, SkyMiles members had to meet specific threshold qualifications in two categories: MQMs (Medallion Qualification Miles) and MQDs (Medallion Qualifying Dollars). The process has been simplified to only measure MQDs. For 2025 status, the MQD thresholds range from $5,000 MQDs for Silver Medallion status to $28,000 for Diamond Medallion status. With the Reserve’s MQD Headstart & Boost benefit, cardholders will receive a $2,500 head start toward the threshold for earning Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) each year and will earn one additional MQD for every $10 spent on the card.
• Companion certificate : Cardholders receive an annual companion certificate for a free domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flight in First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin for a friend booked on the same flight.
• $240 Resy credit : Receive up to $20 in monthly statement credits at participating US Resy restaurants. Plus, unlock exclusive reservations with Global Dining Access by Resy.
• $200 Delta Stays credit: Book a hotel stay and get up to $200 back on prepaid hotels or vacation rentals booked through Delta Stays.
• $120 rideshare credit: Streamline your commutes and earn up to $10 in statement credits each month on rideshare purchases in the US with select providers.
• TakeOff 15: Save on travel booked with points with a 15% discount when using miles to book Delta flights through the airline’s website or app.
• Complimentary upgrade list : Even without Medallion Status, cardholders can be added to the upgrade list after Delta’s elite members to potentially be bumped up into Comfort Plus or First Class.
• Fee credit for TSA PreCheck/Global Entry: Breeze through security with a statement credit to cover the application fee for either program. You’ll receive a $100 statement credit for Global Entry and up to $85 for TSA PreCheck.
• Hertz President’s Circle Status: Elevate your car rentals with complimentary Hertz President’s Circle Status, offering exclusive benefits like priority service and vehicle upgrades.
• No foreign transaction fees: There are no extra fees on international purchases.

Current welcome offer

New applicants can currently earn 60,000 bonus miles after making $5,000 in purchases during the first six months of card membership.

Book a Delta flight with your Reserve card and earn three points per dollar.

How to earn miles

Cardholders earn three miles for every dollar spent (3X) with Delta and one mile (1X) for all other purchases. While there aren’t many options for earning extra miles through card spending alone, you can maximize your miles accumulation by “double dipping” on certain buys within the Delta SkyMiles Shopping portal. When using the Delta Reserve card for purchases in said portal, you'll earn at least one mile per dollar spent; depending on the retailer, though, earnings can be anywhere from 1X to 9X per dollar. I’ve double-dipped using the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card to purchase electronics and appliances from Samsung in the portal, earning around 5,700 SkyMiles this way.

How to redeem miles

Cardholders have options when it comes to redeeming SkyMiles for flights. You can redeem the total miles needed for the flight or opt for the cash and miles method. As a cardholder, when you redeem miles in increments of 5,000, you'll receive a $50 discount for each increment applied to the cost while booking a flight. I usually book a domestic flight using 10,000 miles to get a $100 discount. This allows me to space out mile redemptions for future trips.

Additionally, I watch for Delta Flight deals , where trips paid for with miles often come with a 15% discount. By strategically combining these methods, I can maximize the value of my SkyMiles and stretch out the benefits of the signup bonus. Recently, I took advantage of a sale and booked a roundtrip ticket from Atlanta to Paris for just 75,000 SkyMiles. The cash value of the flight was $707.

What I wish I knew before signing up

Most perks are unavailable if you buy the cheapest Delta fare, Basic Economy (fare class E); in these seats, you are not eligible for the complimentary upgrade list, nor can you access the Delta SkyClub or use the companion certificate.

I am excited about the new Hertz Club President’s Circle status benefit. I frequently use Hertz for rental cars. This benefit helps me skip the counter at the airport and makes me eligible for complimentary upgrades when available.

Over the years, I’ve witnessed the gradual removal of perks from other Delta SkyMiles American Express cards. At one point, I could access Delta Sky Clubs with a Delta SkyMiles Gold card. However, with all the credits and benefits the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card provides, this card is here to stay in my wallet for now.

See rates and fees for the American Express cards listed: Delta SkyMiles Gold , Delta SkyMiles Platinum , Delta SkyMiles Reserve , Hilton Honors Surpass

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

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I've tried to research and am seeing different info. Some say foot rests are available in both main and comfort plus. Some say you can't lift the armrests comfortably and lay down across seats (not that I think laying down will even be a remote possibility the way flights are booked solid these days).

Can anyone give first hand advice on Comfort Plus amenities/comfort vs. Main cabin on Delta's A350?

8 replies to this topic

Stay where you are those seats aren’t much better than what you have .for the price they are ridiculous.

Don't know that aircraft on that airline but SeatGuru will have good info that includes user comments/reviews: https://www.seatguru.com/airlines/Delta_Airlines/Delta_Airlines_Airbus_A350_900.php

And I see there is a SeatGuru forum here on TA: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g1-i12084-SeatGuru.html

Delta long haul Comfort + are the same seats as regular economy just a bit closer to the front and with an additional 3 inches of legroom.

There are a few other minor benefits which wouldn’t mean much to me.

IMO, $600 would be more than I’d want to pay for such a meager upgrade.

With regards to SeatGuru…

That site is woefully out of date and doesn’t get updated anymore.

You should pay extra for Bulkhead or Exit Rows, but not for Comfort Plus. Also, if you want a good seat then choose Premium Select Class, which offers a bigger seat and foot rests, and upgraded meals.

#3 - What a shame about SeatGuru.

Found this: https://simpleflying.com/best-seatguru-alternative-options-list/

On ours to Venice we got several inches extra. They made a huge difference in comfort. The seats were same size but you got free alcohol &

More choices for meals & snacks. We're not tall, I'm 5.4 & husband is 5.9. You also board sooner & a dedicated bin space. The seats were regular recline but that extra leg space helped. I actually slept about 3 hours, as opposed to when I did economy a few years ago overnight to Italy & did not get any sleep.

Only you can say if it's worth it. This fall we're flying Charlotte to Rome on AA. I am platinum on AA so got upgraded free to economy plus. That extra leg room has spoiled me. I had wanted to use points to upgrade to premium, but with 4 tickets there was not available upgrade. Friends going with us paid for the plus because they also got spoiled on the Delta comfort plus.

I will say if I have over a 3 hour flight , I get the plus for that extra legroom & dedicated bin space.

OP, this YT video might be a good look at that experience: https://youtu.be/QgtQdMVeJo8?si=hqBuCwavnmWcfPM2

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Best Airline Credit Cards of March 2024

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The offers and details on this page may have updated or changed since the time of publication. See our article on Business Insider for current information.

Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess credit cards ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®, American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

If you want to use travel rewards to save money on flights, an airline credit card is a must. The best credit cards for this purpose are either those that earn airline miles, or cards that earn more flexible rewards points that you can transfer to various frequent flyer programs.

You can find the best airline credit card for you by zeroing in on the benefits you want. Here are our top picks.

Compare the Top Airline Credit Cards

Best airline credit cards of 2024.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best card for flights overall
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card : Best card for Delta flyers
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® : Best card for American Airlines flyers
• United℠ Explorer Card : Best card for United flyers
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card : Best card for Southwest flyers
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card : Best premium airline card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for luxury travel benefits and bonus rewards on flights

Airline Credit Card Reviews

Best card for flights overall: chase sapphire preferred® card.

If you aren't loyal to a single airline, you need the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card in your wallet. This card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points that you can use to book travel directly through the Chase Travel Portal , which gives you access to virtually every airline. You can also transfer Chase points to various airline and hotel partners , including United , British Airways, JetBlue, and Hyatt . 

This card offers a very strong lineup of perks and rewards in exchange for a relatively moderate annual fee. You'll earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 2x points on all other travel purchases. The card also offers 3x points on dining.

Travel includes everything from airfare to parking to hotels, while dining includes restaurants, delivery services, and even some bars. The card also offers one of the best welcome bonuses among consumer credit cards, and you get some valuable travel insurance as well, including trip delay insurance, primary car rental insurance, and purchase protection.

If you apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and find that you're a fan of earning and redeeming travel points, remember that you can always upgrade to its higher-end sibling, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, after your first year.

The Reserve has a hefty $550 annual fee, but it also offers up to $300 in annual travel credits that apply to virtually any travel purchase and earns 5x total points on air travel and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards (after earning the $300 travel credit). You'll earn 3x points on other travel and dining purchases with the Reserve.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is currently offering a welcome bonus of 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. 

Read our full Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

If you're torn between getting the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Chase Sapphire Reserve, check out our comparison of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® to determine the best fit for your spending and travel habits.

Best Card for American Airlines Flyers: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® gets you a free checked bag on American Airlines domestic itineraries, along with preferred boarding and discounts on inflight purchases. It's currently offering a welcome bonus of 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $3,500 in purchases within the first four months of account opening. That's worth around 105000 in flights, based on our valuation of American Airlines miles . 

It also earns 2x miles on eligible American Airlines purchases and on restaurant and gas station spending (and 1 mile per dollar on everything else). We also like that the annual fee is $99, waived for first 12 months. If you spend $20,000 on the card in an account year and then renew your card, you'll get a $125 American Airlines flight discount. 

Other American Airlines credit cards to consider are the no-annual-fee American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® card and the premium Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®. However, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is your all-around best bet for a moderate annual fee.

Qualifying for elite status with American Airlines AAdvantage is now based on earning Loyalty Points. Along with earning Loyalty Points from flying and partner spending, you can earn 1 Loyalty Point per dollar spent on co-branded American Airlines cards, including the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®.

Read our full Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® review .

Best Card for Delta Flyers: Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Out of Delta's lineup of credit cards, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card offers the best balance between a moderate $0 intro for the first year, then $150 annual fee and elite-like perks that can save you cash and improve your travel experience.

This Delta credit card is offering a welcome bonus of 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months from account opening. Business Insider pegs Delta miles value at 1.1 cents apiece, on average, making this bonus worth about 77000 in flights. 

The card earns 2x miles on eligible Delta purchases, 2x miles at U.S. supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, and 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases. This makes the card a valuable option for everyday spending, not just for earning bonus miles on your Delta purchases. 

Other Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card benefits that make it a standout pick for Delta loyalists are a first checked bag for free and priority boarding on Delta flights, a $200 flight credit when you spend $10,000 or more in a calendar year, 15% off Delta award flights, and 20% off inflight purchases as a statement credit.

Read our full Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card review .

Best Card for United Flyers: United℠ Explorer Card

The United℠ Explorer Card offers the perks you'd expect from an airline credit card — a free checked bag (you need to pay for the United flight with your Explorer card to get this perk), priority boarding, discounts on inflight purchases, and bonus miles for purchases with the airline — but also some very valuable extras. 

If you have this card (or any other United credit card ), you get expanded access to United's lowest-priced "saver" awards, which could help you save miles on an upcoming flight booking. The United℠ Explorer Card also offers two one-time United Club passes each year, and an application fee credit of up to $100 for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS. 

New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open. United miles are worth  1.3 cents each, on average, so you can expect to get around 78000 in flights with this bonus.

Read our full United Explorer card review .

Chase issues a whopping six United credit cards ranging from the no-annual-fee United Gateway℠ Card to the luxe United Club℠ Infinite Card , which comes with United Club airport lounge access .

Best Card for Southwest Flyers: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is another example where a higher annual fee is warranted due to the value you get. Thanks to annual benefits like $75 in statement credits for travel on Southwest and four upgraded boardings where available, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card could be well worth it if you're a regular Southwest flyer.

The statement credit for $75 toward Southwest purchases each year effectively lowers the $149 annual fee to lower than the annual fee for the next-cheapest Southwest consumer card, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee). 

The Priority card offers a bonus of 7,500 Southwest Rapid Rewards points each year after your account anniversary (you can use these points to book award flights). That's worth about $105 in airfare, based on our valuation of Southwest points. Additionally, you'll get 25% off inflight purchases. If you fly Southwest more than once or twice a year, this card can easily be worth the annual fee.

The points you earn from any of the Southwest credit cards can help you qualify for the coveted Southwest Companion Pass , which allows a designated companion to fly with you for next to free (just pay taxes and fees) on paid and award flights.

Southwest is a Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partner, so you can move points from cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card to Southwest instantly at a 1:1 ratio if you need to boost your balance. However, you cannot transfer points directly between your Southwest credit cards and your Ultimate Rewards-earning credit cards.

Read our full Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card review .

Best Premium Airline Credit Card: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the most rewarding premium credit card from any of the three major legacy US airlines: American Airlines, Delta, and United. And if you're a Delta loyalist, it could end up saving you a lot of money.

Although most other premium airline cards come with airport lounge membership, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is unique in that when you fly Delta, it not only offers Delta Sky Club access , but also entry to Centurion Lounges when you've used your Amex card to pay for your ticket. 

Right now, Delta Reserve cardholders enjoy unlimited access to Delta Sky Clubs on qualifying same-day travel. Beginning February 2025, Reserve cardholders will receive 15 Sky Club visits a year unless they spent $75,000 or more on the Delta Reserve in the previous calendar year. 

There's a welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in the first six months from account opening (worth around 110000 in flights based on Business Insider's valuations). You'll receive a free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights, an annual Delta companion certificate, and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit after you apply through any authorized enrollment provider.

This card charges a $650 annual fee, but it can be more than worthwhile if you fly Delta often and travel through airports with eligible airport lounges.

Read our Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card review .

Best for Luxury Travel Benefits and Bonus Rewards on Flights: The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express likely won't make sense if you only travel once or twice a year, as it has a $695 annual fee. However, if you're on the road frequently, the card's many premium benefits — from airport lounge access to up to $200 in airline fee credits each year** — make it a useful pick.

The Platinum Card® from American Express earns a spot on our list of the top airline rewards cards because it earns 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 in this category of spend per calendar year). That's one of the highest earning rates available on flight purchases. The Amex points you earn let you book flights directly through Amex Travel, or you can transfer them to more than a dozen airline partners to book flight awards.

Even if you're not traveling right now, the The Platinum Card® from American Express is still worth considering, as it's offering a lucrative welcome bonus offer and comes with Uber (including Uber Eats) Cash credits**, Saks credits**, digital subscription credits**, Equinox credits**, Walmart+ membership credits**, and SoulCycle At-Home Bike credit you can still use if you're staying close to home.

Read our full The Platinum Card® from American Express review

The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a slew of valuable benefits, including up to $300 annually in Equinox credits**, $189 per year in credits for CLEAR® Plus membership**, up to $200 per year in credits toward eligible prepaid hotel bookings, and up to $240 annually in credits toward eligible digital subscriptions**.

Which Credit Card Offers the Best Airline Miles?

There isn't one "best" airline credit card or one type of airline mile that's categorically better than the others, because it depends on which airline is most convenient for you.

For example, if your home airport is small, you could have limited options when it comes to which airline you fly, so you'll likely want to earn whatever miles you need to fly from your hometown.

If you live near a large airport where your airline choices are plentiful and you have more options for loyalty, you may want to investigate how much different airline miles are worth. We recommend checking out Business Insider's updated guide to points and miles valuations , which attach a value (in cents) to the major airline currencies based on the types of award flights you can book through each.

You'll see that Delta miles are generally worth less than Alaska miles, but keep in mind all points and miles are only valuable if you can use them — so if you don't travel to destinations served by Alaska or its airline partners, earning its miles probably isn't your best bet.

Read More About Airline Rewards Programs

Using points and miles to book flights is one of the most valuable ways to redeem your rewards, but it requires some familiarity with the ins and outs of each loyalty program. Luckily, we have you covered with in-depth guides — click through to learn more.

• How to earn, redeem, and maximize American Airlines AAdvantage miles
• How to earn, redeem, and maximize Delta SkyMiles
• How to earn, redeem, and maximize Southwest Airlines points
• How to earn, redeem, and maximize United miles

If you're not loyal to a specific airline but want to use credit card points to book award flights, check out our guides to the major credit card points programs, which let you redeem rewards by transferring to select airline partners or by booking directly through the credit card issuer's travel portal.

• How to earn and use American Express Membership Rewards points
• How to earn and use Capital One miles
• How to earn and use Chase Ultimate Rewards points
• How to earn and use Citi ThankYou points

Airline Credit Card Frequently Asked Questions

Is an airline credit card worth it.

If you're loyal to a particular airline, it could be worth it to get one of its co-branded cards. For instance, United offers the United℠ Explorer Card, which gets you benefits like a free checked bag and priority boarding on United. 

If you aren't loyal to a particular airline and you simply book with whichever carrier is offering the cheapest airfare, an airline co-branded card may not be the best option. You could consider a travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or The Platinum Card® from American Express instead. This way, you'll earn points that can be used to book airfare through Chase and Amex, respectively, as well as through specific airline transfer partners affiliated with the two programs.

How do airline credit cards work?

Airline credit cards work by earning miles in a particular frequent flyer program and require you to add your frequent flyer number to your card account. You're usually asked to do this during the credit card application process. Then, you'll earn miles on all your eligible credit card spending, and those earnings will be reflected in your frequent flyer account. You'll be able to access the miles you earned from your credit card directly through your frequent flyer account and use them to book award flights.

What's the difference between airline credit cards and travel rewards credit cards?

Airline credit cards earn you miles in a specific frequent flyer program, such as Southwest Rapid Rewards or United MileagePlus. Travel rewards cards, on the other hand, earn transferable points — rewards that you can transfer to a variety of airline and/or hotel partners. With travel rewards cards, you aren't locked into using your points with only one airline, but you also won't get airline-specific benefits like a free checked bag or priority boarding.

Do airline miles expire?

Airline miles usually expire, but there are some notable exceptions. Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United miles never expire, but with other programs like American Airlines AAdvantage, miles do expire if you don't have any qualifying activity within a certain period (24 months, in the AAdvantage program). Keep in mind that earning miles from using a co-branded airline credit card counts as a qualifying activity and can prevent your miles from expiring.

Should I get an airline credit card?

You should consider getting an airline credit card if you're loyal to a particular airline and fly often enough to get value from perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and airport lounge access. Even folks who travel the same airline a couple of times a year can save money and get benefits from having an airline credit card. 

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Airline Credit Cards

Business Insider chose the top airline cards based on the value each card offers in relation to its annual fee. To make sure we were considering the best airline credit cards from every perspective, we also researched the recommendations and methodology of top airline card lists from other websites.

In many cases, each publication had a different pick for the best credit card for a given airline — and in that situation, we arrived at our selection by returning to the question of which card offers the most value in return for its annual fee, excluding benefits that require spending extra money to unlock.

Note that we focused on credit card options for flying with major US airlines — including the "big three" of American, Delta, and United, as well as smaller popular carriers like Alaska, JetBlue, and Southwest. If you frequently fly with another airline like Frontier or Hawaiian, you may want to look into its co-branded credit card options.

With an airline credit card, not only will you earn miles on every purchase you make, but you can also earn a welcome bonus offer that will jump-start your frequent flyer account balance. Depending on the card you choose, you can also get benefits like a free checked bag, priority boarding, or an airline companion ticket.

Read Business Insider's guide to points and miles valuations to find out what your airline miles and credit card points are worth.

There isn't simply one best airline credit card; the right option for you depends on what airline you fly, whether you're a loyalist or want flexibility, how you want to use your miles, how much of an annual fee you're comfortable paying, and several other factors.

You'll also want to consider airline partnerships — for example, it could make sense to get an American Airlines credit card if you want to redeem miles for award flights on Oneworld partners like Japan Airlines and Cathay Pacific. Alternately, a card like the Aeroplan® Credit Card can make sense even if you don't fly Air Canada, because you can redeem Aeroplan points for flights on Star Alliance airlines including United and Lufthansa.

Here's more about how we rate credit cards at Business Insider.

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Score 1,000 Delta SkyMiles When You Book a Hilton Stay For a Limited Time

The promotion is running until May 6.

Courtesy of Delta

Delta has teamed up with Hilton Honors to offer 1,000 miles on stays at thousands of hotels worldwide.

“Delta SkyMiles members, enjoy a limited-time offer on Hilton stays,” the airline shared about the new promotion on its website . 

First, travelers must join both Hilton and Delta ’s programs if they haven’t already and register for the latest promotion by Monday, May 6. Then, Hilton Honors members will need to link their Delta SkyMiles number under the “Preferred Travel Partners” section of their profile.

Delta will award 1,000 SkyMiles for an eligible Hilton reservation booked directly with cash through Hilton’s website or the Hilton Honors app and completed by July 7, 2024. A maximum of three hotel reservations can be booked during the travel window, which gives the potential to earn a total of 3,000 SkyMiles through this promotion.

It could take up to six to eight weeks after the stay is over before the miles are deposited, but they won’t count toward earning elite status with Delta, according to the promotion. 

This isn’t the first time Delta has partnered with other travel and lifestyle loyalty programs, giving members plenty of opportunities to earn miles even if they’re not flying. Travelers can also register to earn 1 mile per dollar spent at Starbucks and Airbnb thanks to these exclusive partnerships. Finally, members can earn SkyMiles from spending on Delta co-branded credit cards or flying SkyTeam partner airlines such as Aeromexico or Virgin Atlantic. 

Delta SkyMiles can then be redeemed for free flights roughly at 1.2 cents apiece, and the airline will often run flash sales where members can redeem miles for flight deals. It’s also possible to redeem SkyMiles for Delta Vacations packages for at least 15 percent more value, which bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals at a discounted rate.

Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Breaking News Reporter

Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital