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The Guide to Baggage Insurance

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Table of Contents

How does baggage insurance work?

What does baggage insurance cover, what is not covered by baggage insurance, how much does baggage insurance cost, how do i get baggage insurance, which baggage insurance coverage is best for me, is baggage insurance worth it.

Travel can be a lot of fun but if your bags are lost or stolen or your luggage is delayed for a significant amount of time, it can be a bad start to the trip. Before you travel, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with baggage insurance, which is offered on travel insurance policies and on premium travel credit cards.

How often does luggage get lost? According to LuggageHero, an airline's chances of losing your bag are slim – just 0.4% in 2021. And if that happens, the airline is responsible for compensating you for your lost bags and contents. But they may have different liability limits than separate insurance, and there are plenty of other ways luggage can disappear after you leave the airport.

"Baggage insurance" is a general term that encompasses two key benefits: baggage loss and baggage delay. Here’s what you need to know about baggage insurance and how to get it.

Baggage insurance can generally be divided into two broad categories: Baggage loss and baggage delay.

Suppose you arrive at baggage claim to get your two pieces of luggage, but they are nowhere to be found. You file a lost report with the airline and head to your Airbnb. However, when you arrive, you find that it doesn’t have many toiletries or even a spare toothbrush. On the third day, one of your pieces of luggage arrives but the other one is lost.

If you purchased a travel insurance policy (or have a premium travel card ) that offers baggage insurance benefits, the baggage delay coverage will reimburse you for the purchase of essential items such as a toothbrush, toiletries, change of clothes, etc. for each of the days that you didn’t have your belongings.

Because you only received one of your pieces of luggage, baggage loss coverage will reimburse you for the missing piece, along with the contents up to a specific dollar amount. If you have valuables in your lost luggage, it's likely that they are covered by your homeowners insurance policy, so you’d want to check with that company before seeking reimbursement from the travel insurance provider, which limits the amount you can claim for the high-end items.

If you don’t have baggage insurance benefits, you’re still in luck because the airline carrier has procedures in place to reimburse for lost luggage and baggage delay. Still though, having an extra layer of protection is helpful, especially if your luggage is expensive and/or the baggage insurance benefits on the travel insurance policy are higher than the airline's.

When booking your trip, check the airline’s baggage loss and delay policies to ensure you understand what level of coverage you’re comfortable with.

Certain premium travel credit cards offer baggage insurance benefits. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers baggage delay insurance of $100 per day for up to five days if your bags are delayed for more than six hours and lost luggage reimbursement of $3,000 per person and up to $500 for luxury items.

» Learn more: Your guide to Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel insurance benefits

Baggage loss

Baggage loss will reimburse you for luggage and personal belongings that are lost or stolen while you’re on your trip. This coverage usually includes three limits:

Per-person overall limit.

Per item limit.

A specific limit for high-end items.

In case your luggage is lost, you’ll need to notify the appropriate local authorities, which will happen when you file your claim with the airline. To get reimbursement for luxury items (such as watches, jewelry, furs, cameras), some insurers may require you to submit original receipts.

» Learn more: How lost luggage insurance works

Baggage delay

Baggage delay lets you purchase necessary items while you’re waiting for delayed bags. This benefit usually kicks in after a specified amount of time and has two limits:

A per-person dollar limit.

A daily limit.

You will need to wait until the minimum amount of time has passed before you can be eligible for reimbursement. Some policies also state that this benefit is available only on the outward leg of your trip, so you’ll want to read the fine print of the policy to know when the coverage applies. Also, make sure to keep your receipts for items you purchase while you wait for your bags, as you will need to submit them with your claim.

For baggage loss and baggage delay, the coverage is usually secondary, which means that the benefits only kick in after the common carrier (airline) provides reimbursement.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

Each insurer will have its own list of exclusions for baggage delay and baggage loss, however, some common exclusions are:

Auto equipment.

Household items.

Perishables.

In addition, losses related to a policy’s general exclusions (self-harm, war, illegal acts, etc.) also aren't covered. As always, check the fine print so you’re aware of what is covered.

Coverage included with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , for example, covers up to $500 for jewelry and watches. And plans from World Nomads cover sports equipment and documents like passports.

Before making assumptions, you should always check to ensure lost luggage is covered and for how much, as different plans offer different coverage types and amounts.

There are other exclusions. For example, you can't be reckless with your luggage or where you leave it, like in the back of an open pickup or on a curbside while you enter a cafe.

In addition, you typically must first file a report with the airline or local authorities in the case of theft or loss to file a claim with your travel insurance company. It's also best if you can provide receipts for high-value items to receive full reimbursements.

» Learn more: Blue Ribbon Bags reunites you and your bags in 4 days — or pays

Baggage insurance is usually included within comprehensive travel insurance plans. For a two-week trip to Australia that costs $5,000, a search of policies on travel insurance broker Squaremouth ranged from $198 to $447, representing 4.0% to 8.9% of the total trip cost.

One international week-long vacation may run from around $37 to $100 or more based on how much protection you want for the items you're traveling with.

A $63 plan, for example, may cover up to $750 of lost or stolen luggage, while a $103 plan might cover up to $2,500.

As you can see, prices range widely, which makes it easy to find a policy that applies to your individual situation.

If you hold a premium travel credit card that offers trip baggage insurance benefits, this coverage is offered free of charge as long as the trip is purchased with the applicable credit card.

The two main ways to get baggage insurance benefits are by purchasing a trip insurance policy or applying for a premium travel card that offers these benefits.

As mentioned previously, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® covers baggage delay and baggage loss. The Platinum Card® from American Express and many other American Express cards provide coverage for lost luggage only, with a $3,000 per person limit and a $1,000 per high-end item limit. There is no coverage for baggage delay. Terms apply.

» Learn more: Travel insurance benefits on American Express credit cards

These premium cards also offer other travel insurance benefits like trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, emergency assistance and more. If you often buy trip insurance, applying for one of these travel cards could be advantageous, since they offer a lot of useful perks and statement credits that will typically offset at least part of the annual fee.

However, if your luggage and belongings are more expensive than the limits provided by the credit card, purchasing a separate travel insurance policy could make a lot of sense.

If you’re traveling with expensive clothes or have high-end luggage, purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy that offers baggage insurance benefits is a good idea. If your belongings are relatively low-cost, you’re traveling with a carry-on or backpack or you’re already covered through your credit card, you may not need to purchase a travel insurance policy.

However, if you’d like additional coverage like Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) , travel medical insurance and/or your credit card doesn’t offer sufficient limits, consider a comprehensive travel insurance policy from providers such as AAA , Allianz , AIG or World Nomads .

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

If you're traveling with high-value personal belongings, baggage insurance can be worth it.

However, you might not need to pay out of pocket to get coverage. For example, if you used a travel credit card with robust trip protection and luggage insurance to book and pay for your vacation and don't require additional or specialized coverage, that may be sufficient.

Purchasing coverage separately is probably best if you don't have baggage insurance benefits through a credit card or want to customize your coverage. But, again, the right option will depend on your needs and will likely vary from trip to trip.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

June 1, 2020

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

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

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova, Republic of; North Korea, Democratic People's Rep; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

Baggage Insurance

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

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• Help and Support

Travel insurance and baggage cover

Article contents.

Tegan Oldfield

15 August 2023 | Updated 18 April 2024 | 5 minute read

It can be stressful if your luggage is either lost or is delayed  at the airport.

Your travel operator should compensate you if the loss is their fault, whether that’s at the airport or on alternative transportation. 

But having an appropriate travel insurance policy will cover you if your luggage is lost or stolen at any point during your trip, not just when you’re travelling. 

Below, we’ve explained what you should do if your bags are lost or delayed and how to choose the right insurance policy to cover you.

What to do when your luggage is lost or delayed 

If you’re at the airport and discover that your luggage is lost or delayed, you need to follow these steps.

Go to your airline’s help desk – report your baggage as missing.

Complete a property irregularity report (PIR) – include your personal details, information about the flight you were on, a detailed description of the lost luggage and a list of the items in it.

Check the airline's progress – some airlines have an online tracking service, saving you the hassle of calling them whenever you want an update on your bags.

Resolving your claim

Ideally, your bags will be found and returned to you as soon as possible. In the meantime, the airline  must pay reasonable compensation to cover essentials like clothes and toiletries.

Remember that the travel operator’s idea of ‘reasonable’ might differ from yours, so check before buying expensive replacements. Not all airlines compensate with upfront cash; you may be expected to reclaim costs once you’re home.

If your luggage is lost – not just delayed – and the airline can’t locate it within 21 days, you’re entitled to claim total compensation from them.

They’ll ask you for a list of your bag’s contents and receipts to prove that you owned the items you’re claiming for. You won’t get the cost you paid for your items when they were new. Your airline will probably deduct an amount for wear and tear. 

Travel insurance for your luggage 

If your airline loses your bags, contact them first  for compensation and follow the process above. However, your travel insurer may also reimburse you if you have the right cover.

Before buying your travel insurance , work out a rough value estimate for your luggage, then use this figure to decide what level of cover you need.

We offer personal belongings  cover of up to £1,000, £2,000 and £2,500, depending on the level of cover you choose. Personal belongings just means all the items you take on holiday with you. 

You may have also packed some valuables in your luggage. Some policies will have a separate valuables limit .

How to claim for lost or delayed luggage

If you’re making a luggage claim that’s been lost or delayed, you must have submitted a property irregularity report (PIR) . 

For any other lost luggage, you need to:

• Report the loss or theft to the police – within 24 hours of discovering your missing items. 
• Contact your insurer – so they can assist you with your claim.

When contacting your insurer, all the following documents can help support your claim:

• receipts 
• photographs 
• airline tickets
• luggage tags 

Your insurance provider will decide how best to compensate you – it might include paying for the cost of replacements or, in the case of damaged items, paying for their repair.

Note that you won’t receive the total cost of any more than a year-old items, as wear and tear will be considered.

Insuring valuables while travelling

Most policies include a single-item limit. This is the maximum amount you’ll be compensated for a single item. 

Some policies also include a separate valuables limit which is the total limit for all the valuables items you need to claim for.

For example, if you lost a £1,000 laptop and a £300 camera, but your valuables limit is £400, the latter figure is the maximum amount you’ll be able to claim, which could leave you £900 out of pocket.

It might be best to arrange cover separately from your general travel insurance policy for valuable items like this. You can receive extra cover by:

• Buying a gadget insurance add-on – this will cover tech items like cameras, mobile phones or tablets while travelling. 
• Arranging ‘away from home’ cover on your home insurance – since you need cover for these items all year round, it could be beneficial to insure them with the rest of your home contents. Some providers will need you to upgrade your insurance for your valuables to be covered away from home.  

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Air Travel and Damaged Baggage

What Should You Do When Your Bag Is Damaged During Your Flight?

If you fly frequently, the day will come when your suitcase slides down the baggage claim ramp in worse shape than it was at check-in. Your airline has developed policies and procedures for you to use when filing a claim for damaged luggage.

Before Your Trip

Know your rights and restrictions.

Every airline has a baggage policy that states which types of baggage damage the airline will pay for and which items are excluded from repair or reimbursement offers. The International Monetary Fund's Montreal Convention governs reimbursement amounts for baggage damaged on international flights.

Consider Travel Insurance

If you plan to check expensive luggage or must carry high-value items in your checked baggage, travel insurance that includes  baggage loss coverage  can help you minimize losses if your bags are damaged during your flight.

Check your renter's or homeowner's insurance policy to see whether it includes coverage for damage to luggage and its contents.

Airlines sometimes offer excess valuation coverage to passengers who must pack high-value items in their checked baggage. See your airline's website for details.

Read Your Contract of Carriage

Your airline's contract of carriage states which types of baggage damage are eligible for compensation. Read this document. Your airline will not pay for damage to extendable suitcase handles, suitcase wheels, suitcase feet, or zippers, nor will it repair scuffs or tears. Airlines consider these problems to be normal wear and tear, and you will not be compensated for them except on a case-by-case basis.

Before your trip begins, be sure you understand the claims process, especially the time limit for filing a damage claim. If you fail to comply with this time limit, you will not be compensated for damage to your bag or its contents .

Your contract of carriage also identifies which packed items are ineligible for reimbursement, whether they are lost, stolen or damaged during your trip. Depending on the airline, this list could include jewelry, cameras, prescription medications, sports equipment, computers, artwork and other items. Consider hand-carrying or shipping some of these items via an insured carrier.

Understand the Montreal Convention

Liability for baggage damaged on international flights is regulated through the International Monetary Fund's Montreal Convention, which sets airlines' per-passenger liability limit at 1,131 Special Drawing Rights units, or SDRs. The value of SDRs fluctuates each day; as of this writing, 1,131 SDRs equals $1,572. You can check the current SDR value at the International Monetary Fund's website. Some countries have not ratified the Montreal Convention, but the United States, Canada, European Union member nations and many other countries have done so.

Take Photographs and Make a Packing List

Filing a claim will be difficult if you do not know what you packed. Packing lists help you stay organized and serve as documentation. If you have receipts for the items you packed, particularly for high-value items, bring copies with you to substantiate a potential damage claim. Airlines typically depreciate the value of items claimed, based on purchase date. Any documentation you can provide that establishes an item's original cost and purchase date will be useful.

Even better, take photographs of all the items you plan to pack. Photograph your suitcases, too.

Pack Wisely

No airline will compensate you for baggage damage if you jam too many items into one suitcase. Contracts of carriage generally exclude damage to overstuffed luggage or to items packed in unsuitable bags, such as flimsy shopping bags. Airlines seldom compensate passengers for zipper damage, so there is no reason to shove too many articles into your suitcase.

If Your Baggage Is Damaged

File your claim before leaving the airport.

In nearly all cases, you should file your claim before you leave the airport. This will give the airline's representative a chance to inspect the damage and look at your boarding pass and baggage claim ticket. Include your flight information and a detailed description of the damage to your bag and its contents on your airline's claim form.

Some air carriers, such as Southwest Airlines, require that you file your damage claim within four hours of landing at the airport, but all require you to file your claim within 24 hours of landing for domestic flights and within seven days for international flights .

File With a Smile

Do your best to stay calm and speak politely when you file your claim. You will get much better service from your airline's representative and you will be more persuasive when asking for repairs or compensation.

Get Copies of Forms

Do not leave the airport without a copy of your claim form, the name of the airline representative who helped you with the form and a telephone number for follow-up inquiries. Documentation is critical. This form is the only record you have of your claim.

Follow-Up Procedures

If you do not hear back from your airline in two or three days, call the airline's claims office. Ask about repairs to your luggage and compensation for your damaged belongings. If you do not receive a satisfactory response, speak with a supervisor. Should the supervisor dismiss your concerns, speak with managers and try to contact claim representatives via Facebook, Twitter and other social media outlets. If extensive follow-up is needed, use email so you can save it as documentation.

As long as your claim is valid, you have every right to expect that your airline will pay for damage to your bag and its contents. Be polite and persistent, document your claim and keep records of every conversation and email exchange you have with your airline. Escalate your claim if necessary, and continue to insist on repairs to your damaged bag.

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Travel nightmares: What to do if an airline damages your checked luggage

The bright orange Kenneth Cole suitcase circled the baggage claim carousel at Dallas Love Field with what looked like an antenna.

A piece of wire was all that remained of the retractable handle on the hardside bag.

I pushed it into the Southwest Airlines baggage claim office to file a claim, short on time and unsure of what came next.  It was the first time an airline damaged my bag. Delayed bags, I knew the drill. Lost bags, too, as an airline permanently lost a bag of mine several years ago.

Here's what I learned: Travelers have options when it comes to damaged bags, and knowing your rights will put you in a better position to resolve the claim.

If y ou have a claim, that is. An airline's definition of damage, backed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, may differ significantly from a passenger's definition. Normal wear and tear, including scratches, scuff marks, stains, dents and dirt, are not covered.

Every airline damaged bag policy has a disclaimer about normal wear and tear. And it applies even if you bought the suitcase the night before your flight or are checking a designer bag.

"If you have a Louis Vuitton (bag) and it goes through the (conveyor) belt system, it is not white glove service,'' said Lisa Ouimette, an analyst in American Airlines' central baggage services office. "These are belt loaders. If you have a brand new bag, expect it to have normal wear and tear.''

Airlines also reserve the right to deny claims to passengers with damage caused by overstuffed bags, such as broken zippers, as well as poor quality bags and bags that were damaged when checked in.

So what is covered? 

Damage to luggage components including wheels, handles, straps and other glaring problems, such as holes or a cracked hardside bag, are covered. The latter is a big problem in cold weather, Ouimette said. (So are removable straps, which regularly get stuck in the bag loading systems, so take them off, she said.) 

"We anticipate damage and when it does happen, we have a plan in place to take care of our customers,'' she said.

Passenger rights if an airline damages your bag

More than 87 percent of U.S. travelers don't file claims against airlines following an issue with lost, damaged or delayed luggage, according to a survey earlier this year by AirHelp, a service that helps passengers get compensation for claims against airlines. The three main reasons: They didn't think they would be entitled to compensation, they were not aware of their rights and they did not know how to file a claim.

Airlines are responsible for repairing or reimbursing a passenger for damaged baggage and/or its contents when the damage occurs while the bag is under the airline’s control, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Aviation Consumer Protection division .

The cheapest option for airlines is a bag repair. Many use Dallas-based  Rynn's Luggage , which bills itself as the largest airline luggage repair and replacement service in the country.

If a bag cannot be repaired, it will be replaced with a like bag or passengers will be reimbursed. The reimbursement is based on the value of the bag and its depreciation, the DOT says, subject to liability limits.

For flights within the United States, the maximum liability for a lost, delayed or damaged bag is $3,500. The limit on international flights, per the Montreal Convention, is about $1,600, the agency says.

Airlines are free to pay more but there is no requirement to do so, according to the DOT.

That doesn't mean you're going to get $3,500 or anything close to it if a wheel fell off your bag or your handle was destroyed. (The higher limits generally apply to a lost suitcase full of pricey personal belongings.)

My suitcase wasn't new and had plenty of scuffs, but the broken retractable handle was clearly a big problem. I worried that Delta Air Lines, which I was flying the next day out of Dallas, wouldn't accept it, or would have me sign a waiver absolving them of any liability should it get further damaged.

Southwest baggage representatives in Dallas were friendly and apologetic and didn't doubt I needed a new bag. But they were clearly trying to limit their liability. (I never  identify myself as a travel reporter for fear of getting special treatment, a violation of our ethics policy.)

They asked how old my bag was, where I purchased it and how much I paid for it. They took photos and went to a back room computer to search for a similar bag online. They couldn't find one, or only found heavily discounted bags. I didn't recall how much my bag was or where I purchased it but estimated it at between $150 and $200.  A repair never came up.

Then, in a move that surprised me, they wheeled out a couple new bags about the same size as my bag. One was a hardside bag, the other a traditional suitcase, and both had spinner wheels and a retractable handle, like mine. The hardside bag wouldn't fit all of my stuff and both bags looked relatively cheap, so I initially passed.

American's Ouimette said airlines keep so-called stock bags on hand for cases where passengers immediately need a new bag. She ordered a bunch for American for the busy holiday season. Many passengers love them because their damaged bag is older and they are thrilled to get a new one. 

I was pickier and wanted something decent for the hassle.

Southwest said they would reimburse me if I bought a new bag and brought a receipt for a similar bag on my way out of Dallas the next morning. I didn't have time to shop during my 24-hour visit and needed a suitcase, so eventually decided to take them up on the stock bag.

In the middle of the baggage claim office, I unpacked my broken bag and transferred everything to the new softside bag. 

I wheeled it out of the office and into the corridor heading to the airport's Uber pick-up area. I didn't make it. The wheels kept circling, sending me a couple steps back for every step forward. 

I fumbled my way back to the baggage claim office and told them the bag didn't work. They were apologetic, again. I repacked everything into the broken bag and pushed it through the corridor and headed out.

Southwest said they would reimburse me for whatever bag I bought, never setting a price limit. I didn't buy one in Dallas; a generous friend I was staying with gave me a big suitcase they were no longer using.

Just before Christmas, enticed by the offer of free expedited shipping, I bought a bag I'd had my eye on, a $245  Away carry-on bag . It was nowhere near as big as the Kenneth Cole one Southwest broke, but my friend's bag took care of my big-bag needs and I was in desperate need of a sturdy new carry-on bag.

My claim was finally resolved the day after Christmas in Phoenix. I landed at Sky Harbor International Airport after midnight and headed to the baggage claim office while waiting for bags to arrive after my flight from Providence.

I submitted my receipt for $260, which included taxes. It took the agents time to find my claim because I didn't have my "damage incident report'' and they were having computer issues. 

A supervisor offered $200, a figure noted in my report by the Dallas agents. I told her they said to buy any bag and bring the receipt, no money figure mentioned, due to my hassles with the stock bag. 

"We'll split the difference, how's that?'' she asked.

At 1 a.m., I walked out of the office with a check for $225.

5 things to do if an airline damages your bag

1. Head to the baggage claim office immediately if possible . You have up to 24 hours to report a claim for domestic flights and seven days for international flights on most carriers, though policies vary by airline. Southwest and JetBlue require claims within four hours; Frontier, 12 hours.  It's easiest to do in person, having everything documented on-site instead of spending time on the phone and uploading claim documents online. Plus, you might be offered a replacement bag on the spot if you're not picky about a new bag. 

2. Don't rip off your baggage tags . The airline will need them. 

3. Be calm and courteous . A banged-up bag is a bad way to begin or end a trip, but blasting the baggage claim representative for a missing wheel or hole in your bag isn't going to help your claim or get it resolved more quickly.

4.  Know the approximate value of your bag and where you purchased it to give you some negotiating leverage in case of reimbursement.

5. Jot down names of airline representatives and details discussed and stay on top of the claims process if it's not resolved immediately. Airlines issue a claim number and updates can be found online. Not getting the answers you want? Ask to talk to someone in the airport office where you submitted the claim or a representative in the airline's central baggage services office.

Major airline policies on damaged bags:

Alaska Airlines

Allegiant Air 

American Airlines  

Delta Air Lines 

Frontier Airlines

JetBlue Airways  

Southwest Airlines

Spirit Airlines

United Airlines

More: Travel nightmares: What to do if you miss your flight

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Your Guide to Baggage Cover When Travelling Abroad

You may be off on a city break with just light hand luggage or you may be lucky enough to be going on a 3 month round the world cruise, whatever type of trip you are going on you need to ensure you have the right amount of Baggage cover.Travel Insurance policies normally offer a set amount that they will cover you for loss of or stolen baggage and personal effects. The amount of cover varies but on average it is in the region of £1,000 to £3,000 of cover per person. Please remember to check single item limits within your baggage cover as if you have an expensive item of jewellery you may find you are out of pocket so do check the limit before you travel.

What is not covered?

There are a number of common exclusions that you should be aware of when purchasing travel insurance with baggage cover. The most common of these are such things as contact lenses, spectacles and dentures along with Mobile phones. Your policy wording should clearly state what is and is not covered. Also check your household insurance cover as sometimes the policy offers cover for your personal belongings outside of the UK.

Am I covered if my cash is lost or stolen?

Most policies offer a small amount of cover under the Personal Money section of the policy this varies from policy to policy but on average covers you between £100 to £500 per person.

Making a claim

Claims under a Travel Insurance policy are normally dealt with on an indemnity basis, meaning deductions will be made for wear and tear. Proof of purchase is normally always required if this is not available, any photographs of you wearing the item or items or bank statements showing the purchase was made will all help to support your claim.

Safety Tips to keep your Baggage safe

Always remember to carry your high value items within your hand luggage or better still on your person. Never leave your bags unattended at any time.

Lock your suitcase with a small padlock this will reduce the chance of someone trying to open your case in transit or worse still putting something inside your case.

If you are travelling with a partner or companion it is sensible to split your clothes and personal effects between the two cases then if one case does go missing at least you will both have some clothes to wear when you arrive at your destination.

When collecting your luggage at the other end ensure it stands out using a colourful luggage strap or luggage label will help easily identify your case. It is also sensible to clearly label your luggage and at the very least include a contact name and telephone number this will help reunite your suitcase with you if it does get lost or not arrive at your destination.

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Policy documents

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We collect and use your personal information according to our Privacy Policy. Please refer to your Policy Wording for full Terms and Conditions of the insurance purchased. If you have any questions please visit the FAQ page or Contact Us .

Direct Travel Insurance is a trading name of Brokersure Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA No. 501719

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Tin Leg Travel Insurance Review and Cost (2024)

Decide whether Tin Leg is the best provider to cover your next trip. Click below to start comparing quotes.

in under 2 minutes

Charlotte Armitage is a copywriter and content manager writing for brands primarily in the travel and recruitment industries. Writing is a major hobby as well as an occupation, but she also spends her time reading, dancing and bouldering.

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

While most vacations happen without problems, events like delays, last-minute cancellations and unexpected illnesses can all affect your travel plans. Travel insurance supplies a financial safety net when unpredictable issues crop up, ensuring you won’t lose money on medical bills or emergency transportation.

Tin Leg is a top-rated travel insurance provider in the U.S., often praised for its plans’ affordability and comprehensive coverage. In this review, we’ll explore the range of travel insurance policies Tin Leg offers and help you decide whether it is a provider worth insuring your next trip.

• Average Cost: $196
• BBB Rating: A-
• AM Best Score: A++
• Medical Expense Max: $100,000
• Emergency Evacuation Max: $250,000

Our Take on Tin Leg Travel Insurance

Tin Leg is a U.S.-based travel insurance provider founded in 2014. Its niche in the market is providing specialized policies for many types of travelers. We recommend Tin Leg as one of the best travel insurance companies because it has many different policies and a competitive selection of add-on protections.

Tin Leg has nine travel insurance plans, ranging from basic, cost-effective coverage to specific policies for adventure travel and U.S.-only trips. With its multiple ways to file a claim, high coverage limits and top-rated customer service, Tin Leg is one of the best options for travel insurance no matter what kind of plan you’re looking for.

Pros and Cons

Compare tin leg to the competition.

Use the table below to compare Tin Leg to other top travel insurance companies:

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

What Does Tin Leg Cover?

Tin Leg’s commitment to supplying insurance that meets the needs of most travelers translates to a strong economy coverage plan. Although it has a Basic policy, the Economy plan is less expensive with few compromises on coverage.

Tin Leg’s Economy plan includes:

• 100% of the trip cost for trip cancellation and trip interruption
• $20,000 per person for emergency medical care
• $100,000 per person for medical evacuation or repatriation
• $500 per person for travel delays , with a $150 daily limit
• $200 per person for baggage delay
• $500 per person for baggage or personal item loss, with a $100 first-item limit
• Up to seven days’ extension of coverage
• 24-hour customer assistance
• Access to concierge service

Tin Leg’s Basic plan has protection for the same scenarios but will pay more in benefits, such as $20,000 per person for emergency medical care. The Economy Plan is also the only policy that doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, so it won’t work for some travelers, particularly older ones.

Optional Riders

An insurance rider is an add-on, or optional protection to include in your travel insurance policy. These extras can be meaningful as a hedge for a pre-existing medical condition , participation in a specific activity or increased benefits for a particular scenario.

Tin Leg has many riders, and each policy comes with a specific list of available options. For instance, only the following add-on is available to customers that buy the Economy plan:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage

When you choose more comprehensive policies from Tin Leg, you could also have insurance coverage for:

• Financial defaults
• Cancel for work reasons
• Terrorism disruption
• Employment layoff
• Missed connections
• Sports and activities coverage
• Identity theft
• Rental car damage
• Accidental death and dismemberment

Policies Offered

Tin Leg has nine travel insurance plans. Here is a breakdown of the main features of each type of travel insurance.

How Much Does Tin Leg Travel Insurance Cost?

The average cost of a Tin Leg travel insurance policy is $196 , which is cheaper than many of the other travel insurance companies we collected quotes for.

Companies calculate the cost of travel insurance based on a variety of factors. They include the ages of the people traveling, the health of the people traveling, the length of the trip and the safety of the destination that they’re visiting.

Tin Leg is known for its affordability, so quotes for its basic plan compare favorably to those of other providers. To give you an idea of the cost of Tin Leg Travel Insurance policies, we obtained the following quotes for seven different international trips.

Use the chart below to compare Tin Leg's average cost to competitors:

Read More: Travel Insurance For United States Tourists

Does Tin Leg Offer 24/7 Travel Assistance?

Tin Leg makes 24/7 assistance available to anyone who buys one of its travel policies. The company contracts with multiple providers to offer services for different situations, including medical aid, help with rebooking flights or accommodations, interpretation assistance, help in cases of identity theft and roadside assistance. The all-encompassing service also includes concierge help for booking excursions, getting tickets to local events or securing restaurant reservations.

Tin Leg Customer Reviews

Most of the customer reviews for Tin Leg travel insurance are positive, with many people reporting that its policies were easy to buy and gave value for the money spent. However, some negative reviews report that trying to get compensation for a claim is time-consuming and difficult. Some customers report feeling unsatisfied with the service they received.

Here are a few examples:

“This is my most trusted, go-to travel insurance company that I have used many times. They are very easy to communicate with, are very professional and always take time to answer my questions. I only had to file a claim once, and it was truly painless and I was compensated quickly.” — Elaine via Sqauremouth “I purchased this insurance for a cruise and extended stay in Greece. We wanted to customize the coverage, as we did not need the full coverage provided by the cruise company. [Tin Leg was] able to offer exactly what we needed at a price we felt was reasonable. Fortunately, we did not need to file a claim, as everything went according to plan, but we felt confident that we could have contacted you for assistance if needed.” — Jean via Squaremouth “I had spent quite a bit of time trying to check on the status of a claim submitted for a Tin Leg insurance policy. The claims were being handled by Broadspire. It shouldn't have taken nearly so long to reject the claim. They eventually sent a letter with the specific policies that they would pay out under and why my claim didn't qualify. It seems like that could have been handled in less than the 13 weeks that it took from submitting my claim to getting the rejection letter.” — Brian via Squaremouth “It took 13 months to finally get paid from Tin Leg. Our experience was similar to those described previously. They never review requested documents; they just ask for the same information over and over… Finally was reimbursed. It almost wasn't worth the aggravation and time it took to call or email.” — Rachel via Squaremouth

How to File a Claim with Tin Leg

There are three stages to the claims process for Tin Leg policies.

Travelers can report their claim online or call 1-844-240-1233 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST Monday through Friday. Once you submit your claim, you’ll receive follow-up instructions. You can expect to fill out a more detailed claim form to describe what happened.

After you submit the form, be prepared to send supporting documents if requested. Documents may include receipts for travel, hotel or other accommodations, evidence of delays or medical records if you’re asking for medical coverage reimbursement.

The claims process with Tin Leg is straightforward, especially if you use the company’s online system. However, Tin Leg reports an increase in claims, which will likely cause longer wait times for claims to get processed.

Is Tin Leg a Good Choice For Travel Insurance?

Tin Leg Travel Insurance offers a robust range of policies that include cancellation coverage, missed connection coverage, medical expenses , medical evacuation coverage and trip interruption coverage. The company’s standard plan offers value for the money with solid coverage options and limits. Meanwhile, specific options like the Adventure plan, USA Only plan and Luxury plan are ideal for travelers with a specific trip in mind.

Keep in mind that many customers say they experienced major delays in receiving compensation after finding it difficult to provide the requested documentation for claims.

We recommend Tin Leg for travelers who seek a provider for comprehensive insurance for a range of coverage scenarios and the option to customize their travel insurance plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tin Leg Travel Insurance

Is tin leg good travel insurance.

We rate Tin Leg as one of the top travel insurance providers in the U.S. thanks to its comprehensive range of policies and the ability to customize your travel insurance based on this collection of different options. It offers good value for money with its basic options and the reimbursement process is relatively straightforward when you have the right documents.

How does Tin Leg travel insurance rate?

We have given Tin Leg travel insurance a rating of 4.45 stars, based on its performance against competitors. What stood out for us was the range of policies available to travelers and the options provided to choose a plan tailored to your trip.

How much does the Tin Leg standard travel policy cost?

Based on the quotes we gathered for this article, the Standard Policy from Tin Leg cost was $146 for two adults traveling internationally. Prices will vary depending on the travelers that need insurance coverage, your destination and the length of your vacation.

How do you extend Tin Leg travel insurance coverage?

All of Tin Leg’s travel insurance policies can be extended up to seven days if their return home is delayed by a specific unforeseen covered by their policy. You can get the extension by contacting the provider if your return is delayed and may require medical records as proof if a medical emergency causes the delay.

Other Insurance Resources From MarketWatch Guides 

Read our comprehensive guides on the following insurance categories to find top providers and peace of mind that you have all aspects of life covered.

• Leading Pet Insurance Companies
• Top Travel Insurance Companies
• Best Homeowners Insurance Providers
• Leading Renters Insurance Companies
• Affordable Renters Insurance Providers
• Top Term Life Insurance Providers
• Budget-friendly Homeowners Insurance Companies

Methodology: Our System for Ranking the Best Travel Insurance Companies

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

More Travel Insurance Reviews

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Beware of travel insurance policy wording that can leave you out of pocket for lost valuables - as nine out of 10 deals have limits on 'new for old'

• EXCLUSIVE: Over half of travel insurance deals checked will not pay an item's full replacement price if it is more than one year old
• This common practice can trip up unwary holidaymakers making a claim 
• Finding this out often means checking the small print of your insurance deal

By Sam Barker For This Is Money

Updated: 05:36 EDT, 15 February 2023

View comments

Holidaymakers booking trips should be aware that they may be left out of pocket for lost valuables and luggage if they do not have the right travel insurance deal.

Nine out of 10 of the best value travel insurance deals analysed in This is Money's research have restrictions on paying the full cost of replacing lost items with brand new equivalents, which insurers call 'new for old'. 

Instead, many deals pay out for what the insurer sees as the current value of the lost item, which can be far less than the cost of replacing it. Others only pay out the full value of something if it is less than one year old.

New for old cover means you will be paid the equivalent value of a lost or stolen item by your insurer, or get a brand new one, regardless of how old the missing item is. In other words, wear and tear and depreciation are not factored into the insurance payout.

Check your travel insurance policy wording carefully to see what is - and isn't - covered

So for example, if a traveller buys a bag for £200 then has it stolen on holiday two years later, if they have new for old cover they will get an equivalent quality new bag when they make a claim.

This reflects the fact that although used items will have lost value it can be all but impossible to replace items with second-hand versions.

The cover is vitally important for expensive items of clothing, jewellery and sporting equipment, which if a bag is lost and not paid out at replacement value could cost hundreds or even thousands to adequately replace. 

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• How to get the best travel insurance: The guide to finding the right policy at the cheapest price

Without new for old cover the traveller's insurer may pay out a fraction of that amount, as they would argue the two-year-old bag is now used and worth less than £200.

Charity Citizens Advice said: 'An insurer may refuse to pay out some or all of your claim because your cover does not replace new for old. Insurers may pay out less than you're claiming for, to allow for wear and tear of your belongings.'

Insurers do have to state if a particular travel insurance deal includes new for old cover - but often that information is tricky to find, and requires digging through your policy document small print.

Other travel insurance policies put a time or cash limit on new for old cover.

As an example, Ergo Element travel cover will pay out new for old, but only if the lost or stolen item is less than one year old.

This Is Money looked at an example list of the 10 cheapest travel insurance deals for a solo traveller spending a week in France. 

Travel insurers paid out £250 million in claims in 2020, according to the latest figures from the Association of British Insurers. 

Of that, £148 million was compensation for cancelled trips and £63 million was for emergency overseas medical treatment.

How to compare travel insurance

The quickest and easiest way to save money on travel insurance and compare the best policies is to use a comparison site.

While results will broadly be the same across most comparison sites, they may slightly differ, so it is worth checking a couple. 

However, those with pre-existing medical conditions may struggle to get appropriate travel insurance at a reasonable price using price comparison websites.

People in this situation can find travel cover using the 'find a broker' tool from the British Insurance Brokers' Association or call 03709501790.

For comparison websites, we suggest: 

MoneySupermarket

Compare deals from 35 leading providers

Confused.com

See how much you can save from a few days to an annual policy  

Also check insurers such as Direct Line that does not appear on comparison sites and if you have previous serious medical issues consider a specialist insurer or broker.

Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. This does not affect our editorial independence. 

Share or comment on this article: Six in 10 travel insurance policies don't have 'new for old' cover if you lose valuables

Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence.

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How to get the best travel insurance deal

With a few key exceptions like buying a house or welcoming a new addition to the family, there’s not much more exciting than planning and booking an amazing holiday. What’s perhaps less exciting is planning  what kind of travel insurance you’ll need, but that doesn’t mean it’s not important!

Of course, most people will be able to tell you why it’s so vital to have good travel insurance before you go abroad, but knowing exactly what type of travel insurance to get is another matter entirely.

Here’s a list of some of our favourite tips and tricks for getting the best travel insurance deal possible plus other important things to consider before you jet off abroad. 

Medical expenses, how much is too much?

One of the most common issues people can run into when looking for travel insurance is not knowing how much to insure themselves for, particularly when it comes to medical expenses. It’s not uncommon for travel insurance providers to say they can cover you for up to £20 million in medical treatment, however figures like these can be a little meaningless in practice.

The average medical expenses claim is estimated to be around £1,200. The most expensive travel insurance claim of all time currently sits at approximately £650,000 and was incurred by a Canadian woman who prematurely gave birth while travelling in the US. In other words, while it’s always wise having a little extra protection and not needing it than needing it and not having it, buying cover for sums like £20 million is a bit unnecessary and means you could be paying over the odds for insurance cover you just don’t need.

According to independent financial information firm Defaqto, the vast majority of people will rarely need more than £1 million worth of medical expenses cover if they’re travelling in Europe or more than £2 million if they’re travelling further afield. 

Look carefully at your dental cove r

Dental claims while on holiday are more common than you might think, often for things like fillings that have come loose while eating out abroad. Particularly for people who might be more at risk of dental issues, adding dental cover onto your travel insurance policy can be an attractive option.

However, it’s worth going over the finer details of the policy with an advisor given that some insurance providers can levy large up-front excesses onto the cost of their policies which could in some cases be as much as the amount it would cost to have your teeth repaired in the first place!

Always, always, always have cancellation cover

Some policies allow you to exclude cancellation cover in order to reduce the overall cost of your travel insurance. However, most insurance experts agree that this is simply not worth the risk, particularly given that cancellation cover is the number one most common travel insurance claim.

Regardless of your circumstances there’s always the risk that a holiday might need to be cancelled, and so it’s worth paying a few pounds extra for better peace of mind and to avoid being left potentially thousands of pounds out of pocket.

How good is your home insurance?

Thinking about home insurance when you’re planning a trip abroad might seem a little counter-intuitive, but in some cases having a robust home insurance policy might save you the need to make a claim on your travel insurance.

Case in point: baggage cover often comes with limits on how much you’ll receive if you make a claim for valuable single items like jewellery or watches. However, you can instead add these items on to your home insurance policy which will ensure that they’re adequately and accurately covered.

Know what baggage insurance covers and what it doesn’t

Whether you’re travelling with an overnight bag for a quick city break or enough supplies for a six-month cross-continental adventure, baggage cover is immensely important. However, it’s also the most commonly rejected travel insurance claim.

This is usually as a result of travellers being unclear on the purpose of baggage cover and how it works. Baggage insurance exists to reimburse you for the cost of any items lost, damaged or stolen – it’s not designed to cover you for the inconvenience of having your things lost, damaged or stolen.

You can be reimbursed for the cost of any clothing or essential items you’re forced to purchase if your bags are delayed, however it’s vital that you keep all of your receipts. No receipts mean no proof, which means you can’t be reimbursed.

It’s also important to note that most travel insurance policies cover your baggage on a ‘wear and tear’ basis, which means that you won’t receive the full amount that you originally paid for any baggage, clothing or shoes that are lost, stolen or damaged.

If this is something that you think you might want or need, you can instead opt for ‘new for old’ baggage policies, which are typically more expensive than the standard ones but which will ensure you’re covered for the full amount you paid for your belongings. 

Sports Travel Insurance isn’t just for sports

Holidays used to be all about rest and relaxation, however it’s becoming increasingly popular for travellers to skip the sunbathing in search of an adrenaline rush, whether it’s winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, mountain biking or white water rafting.

But where it’s possible to go wrong is if you sustain an injury or break a bone doing any of these things and you haven’t told your insurance provider about it. In this case, an insurer could count this as ‘non-disclosure’ and refuse your claim. Needless to say, the costs are pretty large: research shows that the average cost of breaking a bone in France is £2,000 while in the US it’s a staggering £25,000!

Most travel insurance policies will include cover for more modest activities like hiking, but anything more intense than that will often not be covered. This doesn’t just apply to extreme sports, but also common holiday activities like jet skiing, scuba diving or even riding zip-lines between trees.

As a result it’s vital that if you’re planning on any sports activities while abroad that you inform your insurer; in many cases you’ll be able to purchase specific sports insurance to add to your travel cover to ensure you’re properly protected for every eventuality.

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AIG Travel Guard insurance review: What you need to know

Whether you need an annual plan or a policy for a last-minute trip, travel guard can deliver..

Travel Guard is one of CNBC Select 's picks for best travel insurance , thanks to its wide range of customizable policies. But are any of them right for you? Below, we review the provider and its offers and how they compare to the competition to help you choose the right travel insurance for your next trip.

Travel Guard review

Other insurance offered, how it compares, bottom line, travel guard® travel insurance.

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

Policy highlights

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

24/7 assistance available

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Travel Guard® is a global travel insurance provider specializing in plans for leisure and business travelers. Its online travel insurance packages include five options, from basic and last-minute trip coverage to more comprehensive plans. This allows travelers to pick a plan that best matches their situation.

For example, budget-minded travelers might go for the Essential Plan which offers basic protections, such as trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance, coverage for lost, damaged and delayed baggage, and medical, evacuation and death coverage.

On the other hand, the Deluxe Plan — the most comprehensive option — adds such extras as missed connection coverage, security evacuation, travel inconvenience benefits and more. It also boosts high limits for essential coverages.

Last-minute travelers can opt for the Pack N' Go Plan which only includes certain post-departure coverages. Or, if you travel often, the Annual Plan can cover your trips throughout the year.

Finally, Travel Guard offers "offline" travel insurance packages, meaning you'll have to call if you're looking for a specialty plan.

Coverage types

Depending on the plan, here are the types of protection Travel Guard can include in your package:

• Trip cancellations
• Trip interruption
• Baggage coverage
• Baggage delay
• Travel medical expenses
• Travel inconvenience benefits (reimbursement for such situations as runway delays, cruise diversion and other unforeseen situations)
• Medical evacuation
• Trip Saver (reimbursement for meals, hotels and transportation if you need to begin your trip sooner due to weather or airline changes)
• Trip exchange (reimbursement in case you have to cancel your trip and book a new one due to covered unforeseen circumstances)
• Security evacuation (due to a riot or civil disorder)
• Flight guard (coverage for accidental death or dismemberment that occurs when traveling by plane)
• Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver

You can also customize your plan with add-ons, such as car rental insurance and "cancel for any reason" coverage .

Travel Guard landed on our list of the best travel insurance companies thanks to its variety of coverage. With plenty of options to choose from, both online and offline, it's easy to build a policy that meets your needs.

Travel Guard also features 24-hour concierge services that you can use to book a new flight in case of an emergency or delay.

The provider's website also offers informational resources — here, you can check travel news, read safety tips and find general travel advice. Additionally, the website lets you modify your plan, file a claim and check its status, or apply for a voucher or refund.

As of writing, Travel Guard doesn't offer any discounts. That's common for travel insurance — you're more likely to find deals when shopping for other types of insurance, such as home and auto insurance .

Travel Guard is a portfolio of travel insurance and travel-related services offered by AIG Travel, a member of American International Group (AIG). AIG also offers life insurance and a variety of business insurance products.

Travel Guard makes it easy to get a travel insurance policy customized to your needs. But before you purchase coverage, it's always a good idea to shop around.

For example, if you're going on a cruise, you might want to look at Nationwide Travel Insurance . The provider advertises cruise-specific insurance with three plan options available. This type of coverage is designed with issues unique to cruises in mind — from ship-based breakdowns to missed pre-pard excursions.

If you're planning a more active trip filled with rock climbing or sky diving, Berkshire Hathaway offers the AdrenalineCare® plan which features coverage for unforeseen costs that result from participating in extreme sports on your trip, as well as reimbursement for sporting equipment delay. Pre-existing conditions are covered under this plan (if you meet qualifying conditions).

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

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

As you can see, offerings vary by provider. It can be helpful to compare multiple companies and the plans they offer to find what works best for you. It's even better if you gather several quotes to ensure you're getting a good price for your policy.

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

Travel Guard offers plenty of ways to customize your policy, making it a solid choice for travel insurance. You can also access additional options by giving Travel Guard a call. However, make sure to check out other travel insurance companies too — comparison shopping is essential when picking any type of financial product.

Why trust CNBC Select?

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

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

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