fast cover travel insurance quote

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Fast Cover Travel Insurance

Our verdict: a wide range of add-on options gives flexibility to travellers, but cover isn't great for pre-existing medical conditions or pregnancy..

In this guide

Get a quote with Fast Cover Travel Insurance

Summary of fast cover's comprehensive policy, how does fast cover travel insurance cover covid-19, what policies do fast cover offer, here's a breakdown of fast cover travel insurance features, standard features, optional add-on, how to make a fast cover travel insurance claim, here's the bottom line about fast cover travel insurance, frequently asked questions.

Destinations

• Fast Cover's Comprehensive policy won the 2023 Finder Award for the Value category.
• With a specific Bicycle add-on, travellers heading on a cycling holiday can opt for extra protection - up to $5,000 per bike.
• Fast Cover Travel Insurance offers a wide range of customisations, including specific packs for bicycles, motorcycling, adventure activities, snow sports and cruising.
• Pregnancy is only covered up until the 24th week. But we found 11 brands that extend cover beyond this point.
• Although cruise travel can be covered, there's no specific policy for cruising which means some cruise-specific risks may be overlooked.

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Table updated March 2024

Congratulations, Fast Cover!

Fast Cover won the award for 'Travel Insurance - Value' in the 2023 Product Awards.

Fast Cover is one of the few insurers that offer some cover for COVID-related claims . The three key benefits covered are:

• Unlimited Covid-19 overseas emergency medical expenses, including medical evacuation and repatriation
• Up to $5,000 for trip cancellation and disruption due to Covid-19
• Additional expenses you might incur, including travel, accommodation and childcare costs

There are still some pandemic-related costs that are not covered at all by Fast Cover, including expenses related to lockdowns, border closures and quarantine.

Fast Cover has six levels of cover available: Domestic Plus, Snow Sports Plus, Basics, Standard Saver, Comprehensive and Frequent Traveller Saver. Here are some of the main insured events a policy can cover you for:

Domestic Plus

Snow Sports Plus

Standard Saver

Comprehensive

Frequent Traveller Saver

The insurance is issued by Lloyd's. It comes with a 25-day money back guarantee and a $200 standard excess . The excess is the amount you're required to pay when you make a claim and you can reduce this to $100 or $0 if you pay an additional premium.

A Fast Cover Travel Insurance policy has a stack of benefits that can cover you leading up to and during your trip. We've highlighted some of the main benefits included in the Comprehensive policy to help you decide if Fast Cover is the best option for you:

• 24/7 overseas emergency medical assistance
• Accidental death
• Loss of income
• Luggage and personal effects
• Overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses
• Overseas emergency dental
• Permanent disability
• Special event transport expenses
• Trip disruption expenses
• Trip cancellation expenses

When purchasing any of the insurance plans from Fast Cover, you have the chance of choosing a Single Policy, Duo Policy or Family Policy at purchase. Other optional add-ons include:

• Adventure pack for additional cover on top of the standard sports and activities
• Motorcycle pack covers you as a rider or passenger on a motorcycle, scooter or moped
• Bicycle pack can cover any bicycles that you take on your trip

As with any travel insurance provider, there are certain situations when your claim may not be paid. Some of Fast Cover Travel Insurance's general exclusions include if:

• If your claim arises from a medical
• Your claim arises from you being aware at the time you bought your policy of something that would impact your ability to travel. For example, if you knew a family member may pass away during your trip, and you had the intention of using your policy to cover last minute changes to your travels, you might not be covered for those expenses.
• You won’t be covered if you travel and ignore government warnings and known events in the media for reasons set out in the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). For example, you may not be covered if you take out a policy after a volcano eruption warning is issued on the news.
• Your claim arises from being denied boarding from a travel provider due to COVID-19 vaccination requirements, or from errors in any booking arrangements, failure to obtain relevant visa, passport or travel documents , or being rejected access to a country on arrival for any reason.
• You won’t be covered if you travel against the advice of a doctor or medical practioner.
• You won’t be coverd if your claim arises from the consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs.

Make sure you review Fast Cover's Product Disclosure Statement for a detailed breakdown of what is and isn't covered.

For emergencies, you can contact Fast Cover's emergency assistance team on +61 2 8320 7999 or [email protected].

All other claims can be completed online by following these steps:

• Head to https://fastcover.com.au/claims
• Enter your email address and policy number
• Complete the required details
• Attach any documentation to support your claim
• Submit, and wait for Fast Cover to contact you

Fast Cover's comprehensive policy offers an impressive range of add-on options, including specific packs for bicycles, motorbikes, adventure sports, snow sports, and hire cars. This means policies can be customised to suit a wide range of holidays and travellers.

However, there are areas where Fast Cover's Comprehensive Travel Insurance isn't as strong. Like how pregnancy cover is on the lower end of what is typically offered by insurance brands and is only covered up until the end of the 23rd week. (We found 11 brands that extend beyond this point).

Finally, there is no specific cruise policy. While cover can be extended so you're protected on cruises, cover for some cruise-specific risks may be lacking, such as cabin confinement or seasickness cover.

Still on the fence about Fast Cover? You can compare other travel insurance companies here .

Is Fast Cover travel insurance for seniors?

Yes, Fast Cover offers travel insurance for seniors up to and including 65 years of age.

Is Fast Cover travel insurance good?

Fast Cover insurance can be suitable for a variety of travellers, including backpackers, families and seniors. As with any insurance, it's important to review the product disclosure statement to make sure the policy suits your particular needs.

Cristal Dyer

Cristal Dyer is a travel writer at Finder. She has been writing about travel for over five years and has visited over 40 countries around the world. Cristal currently travels full-time, writing about her favourite cities and food finds, and she is always on the lookout for amazing flight deals to share.

More guides on Finder

Looking to save on travel insurance? Use Fast Cover promo codes, deals and discounts to find savings ahead of your next holiday.

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29 Responses

My son is going to domestic snow fields with school camp – would his equipment and any accident be covered?

It’s important to review Fast Cover’s PDS (which is available on its website) to be clear on exactly what is and isn’t covered under a policy.

I can see Fast Cover has a Domestic Plus option. At the time of writing, it covered up to $1,500 in snow sport equipment. Its medical benefits look quite restricted though, so you may benefit from speaking with the insurer directly about your needs.

Best wishes,

Does Fast Cover allow for cancellation due to Covid illness or other unforeseen medical issue prior to departure on a Pacific Cruise. Does it cover isolation costs if contract Covid while on cruise. Thanks

Fast Cover Travel Insurance provides cover for trip cancellation or disruption due to COVID-19 for domestic trips, domestic cruises and selected international destinations.

COVID-19 cover is not available for all countries or for all travellers. The country you’re traveling to, your age and pre-existing medical conditions are all considered, and used to determine if your trip is eligible for cover.

To find out if you can get travel insurance for COVID-19, it’s worth getting a quote to check your eligibility.

Hope this helps!

I want to know we are travelling to Canada next week. I want to know if your insurance would cover covid related medical expenses if we happened to get sick?

Fast Cover Travel Insurance offers an ‘Optional COVID-19 Pack’ where they do include some cover for the following if you contract COVID-19:

1) Overseas emergency medical, hospital and medical evacuation expenses 2) Trip cancellation and disruption

For more information, please refer to Fast Cover’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). This is available on this provider’s website – you can click the ‘Get Deal’ button above to get started.

It’s crucial to read the policy’s wording with care so you know what your insurance covers you for, along with any restrictions and exclusions.

Regards, James

Basic travel insurance to Thailand for 60 Days in 2022 I will be 84 and in good health . What would be the costs involved

we want to hire a scooter in bali does Comprehensive cover, cover us thanks

Thanks for getting in touch with Finder.

Fast Cover’s Comprehensive policy doesn’t automatically cover you if you’re hiring a scooter overseas but they do offer a Motorcycle Pack which is available as an add-on to your policy. Just be aware that to be covered, you will need to follow Fast Cover’s conditions;

• You must wear a helmet.
• For motorcycles with an engine size of 50cc or less, you must hold an Australian Drivers Licence.
• For motorcycles with an engine size over 50cc, you must hold an Australian Motorcycle Licence.
• You must be legally allowed to ride in the country that you are in.

Passengers:

• The person in control of the motorcycle, moped, or scooter must be legally allowed to ride in the country that they are riding in.

We also have a page dedicated to motorcycle travel insurance (includes scooters), if this helps.

Kind regards, Jessica

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Find The Best Travel Insurance Policy For Your Needs & Avoid Costly Surprises!

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Standard single trip policies.

• The most popular and comprehensive travel insurance plan
• Covers cancellations, medical emergencies, delays, and luggage
• Protection from the time you purchase to the date you return

Annual / Multi Trip Policies

• Cost-effective option for travelers taking multiple trips a year
• Includes common medical, delay, and luggage benefits
• May require add-ons from trip cancellation or interruption

Cruise Insurance Policies

• Offers comprehensive trip protection on land and at sea
• Includes high travel medical insurance coverage limits
• Protects against hurricanes, inclement weather, and more

Adventure & Sports Policies

• Essential for travelers partaking in high-risk activities
• Provides protection for lost or delayed sports equipment
• Strong coverage for cancellations and medical emergencies

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Whether you’re heading abroad or staying local, we make it easy to find the best travel insurance plan for your next adventure. No bias. No hidden fees. Just the best trip protection quotes from the country’s leading providers.

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Easily see how plans from the best travel insurance providers compete on cost and coverage. Use filters and sort results to uncover the right plan for you.

Get peace of mind at the lowest possible price. We partner with leading providers to offer you the best policies at the best value, guaranteed.

Why Trust Squaremouth?

When selecting a travel insurance provider, it's crucial to compare options. Obtain quotes from three to five insurers to ensure the best coverage and value. While it may seem time-consuming, this process can result in significant savings.

That's why we're here – over the past two decades, our industry-leading comparison engine has helped millions of travelers find highly-rated insurance plans and protect their trip expenses.

Our industry-leading comparison platform , enriched by customer reviews, displays unbiased results based on your specific trip details. If you run into any trouble, our multi-award-winning customer service team is just a phone call away.

• Helped more than 3 million travelers
• 20+ years serving the travel community
• Intuitive & user-friendly comparison engine
• More plans and top-rated providers than the competition
• Prices are regulated by law; you won't find a lower price anywhere else
• Multi award-winning customer service team
• 140,000+ customer reviews

Save With Squaremouth

Squaremouth has helped more than 3 million travelers find the best policy for their trip.

Key Travel Insurance Benefits

Most trip insurance policies are comprehensive, including coverage for cancellations, medical emergencies, travel delays, and lost luggage, among other benefits.

What Coverage is the Most Important?

Squaremouth customer reviews.

More than 99% of customers would recommend Squaremouth to others. Read what a few of them had to say about their recent experience buying travel insurance.

Great Experience!

"The Squaremouth website is fantastic! It was very easy to select coverage and find and compare policies. Will recommend it to others."

Savannah from NC 03/26/2024

Great Coverage and Price

"Getting a travel insurance quote online was easy. We have used Squaremouth before and have been pleased each time. It's peace of mind for our travel needs."

Rhonda from IN 03/20/2024

Easy to Use!

"I always use Squaremouth simply because it is so easy to use and offers plans that are affordable to me."

Emily from AZ 03/08/2024

Very pleased!

"They give great service, and the website is so easy to navigate to find just the right insurance plan. I always appreciate working with them."

Don from UT 03/07/2024

The Squaremouth website is fantastic! It was very easy to select coverage and find and compare policies. Will recommend it to others.

Featured Articles

Our topic experts keep a constant pulse on the travel industry so we can provide the most current information and recommendations based on today's traveler needs.

What Type of Insurance Do I Need?

Plans can range in terms of cost and coverage, so it’s important to identify your specific needs before comparing options. Discover the different types of travel insurance policies you should consider for your upcoming trip.

How to Buy Travel Insurance on Squaremouth

If you’re new to Squaremouth, this quick guide can help you identify your needs, start your first quote, and compare your results. If you need additional help, our customer service team is just a phone call away.

Travel Insurance FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from travelers like you.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for International Travel?

While rare, some countries or organized tours may require proof of travel insurance that lasts for the duration of your trip. Our Destination Center is a good starting point to learn about entry requirements and travel insurance recommendations.

While it is typically not mandatory, travelers should consider buying insurance if they want to protect themselves financially from unforeseen events that may impact their travel plans. Many Americans and U.S. residents purchase travel insurance when planning international or high cost trips. View our list of the top international travel insurance providers .

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive travel insurance is designed to cover common disruptions that may impact a trip. Most policies will provide coverage for trip cancellations , medical emergencies , travel delays , missed connections , accidental death and dismemberment , and lost luggage . Travelers that experience financial loss as a result of a covered disruption may be eligible for reimbursement through their insurance policy.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

In general, a comprehensive policy with Trip Cancellation typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total trip cost. The cost of a policy depends on four primary factors: trip cost, traveler age, trip length, and coverage amounts. A policy without an insured trip cost will be significantly less expensive. We recommend comparing plans from multiple providers to find the best priced plan for your trip.

What Should I Look for When Comparing Travel Insurance?

There’s no one-size-fits-all policy when it comes to travel insurance. When comparing plans, you should consider the following:

• Benefits: Travel insurance benefits outline what situations are covered under each plan. Make sure each plan you’re considering includes coverage for what’s important to you.
• Coverage Limits: Plans will set limits to how much reimbursement you’re eligible for, and can vary significantly. Higher coverage limits can result in less out of pocket expenses in the event of a claim.
• Exclusions: Travel insurance companies will list specific activities, equipment, and scenarios that are not covered by their plans in the event of a claim.
• Premium: Higher priced insurance products do not always equate to better coverage. We recommend choosing the most affordable plan that offers the travel protection you need.
• Provider Reputation: All providers on Squaremouth have been carefully vetted and offer 24-Hour Assistance services. Customers are also encouraged to share honest reviews about their experience before, during, and after their trips.

Does Travel Medical Insurance Cover International Trips?

In many cases, primary health care plans, such as Medicare or a policy you have through your employer, are not accepted overseas. If you’re not covered, you may be responsible for unforeseen medical expenses if you get sick or injured while traveling.

To avoid out-of-pocket expenses if you need medical care in the event of an emergency, many travelers opt for travel medical insurance. These plans can cover the cost of treating unexpected medical conditions incurred during your international trip.

Are Pre-Existing Conditions Covered by Travel Insurance?

Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies among travel insurance policies. While many plans won’t offer coverage for existing injuries or illnesses, some plans may offer Pre-Existing Condition waivers if certain conditions are met, such as purchasing the policy within a specified time frame from booking the trip.

Will My Policy Cover Trip Cancellations?

Yes, many comprehensive travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations under specified circumstances, such as sudden illness, injury, or death of the insured or a family member, natural disasters, or unexpected work obligations. Most policies that include the Trip Cancellation benefit offer 100% reimbursement for all prepaid, non-refundable trip costs.

What’s the Difference Between Single-Trip and Annual Travel Insurance?

Single-trip travel insurance covers a specific journey for a set duration, offering protection for that trip only. This is the most popular type of travel insurance among Squaremouth users. In contrast, Annual Travel Insurance provides coverage for multiple trips within a year. Annual plans can be cost-effective for frequent travelers and less of a hassle than purchasing multiple single-trip plans.

What's the Process for Filing a Travel Insurance Claim?

To file a trip insurance claim, follow these steps:

• Contact your insurer: Notify them as soon as possible about the incident.
• Gather documentation: Collect relevant documents, such as police reports, medical records, or receipts for expenses incurred.
• Complete the claim form: Fill out the insurer's claim form with accurate details.
• Submit supporting documents: Attach all required documents to substantiate your claim.
• Keep records: Maintain copies of all submissions and correspondence for your records.
• Follow up: Stay in touch with the insurer for updates on your claim status.
• Be honest and thorough: Provide clear and truthful information to expedite the process.

Remember, the process may vary by insurer, so review your policy or contact your insurance provider for specific instructions. Learn more about what can be covered and how to file a travel insurance claim .

Where Can I Buy Travel Insurance?

Travelers can purchase travel insurance directly from providers, through a comparison site like Squaremouth, or directly through a travel supplier when booking. Credit cards and travel agents are other sources to consider. Travel insurance prices are regulated by law, meaning the price of one specific policy must be the same regardless of where it is sold, whether it’s purchased from Squaremouth or directly from the provider.

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Travel Insurance

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For flight insurance protection:

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For all-in-one trip insurance protection:

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Manage Your Travel And Flight Insurance

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Take the worry out of your travels with affordable flight or trip insurance.

Looking to plan the vacation of a lifetime or flying home for the holidays? Trip insurance and flight insurance can provide the peace of mind you need for your next journey. The GEICO Insurance Agency, with Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP), offers comprehensive travel insurance coverage, with prompt service and global assistance. Get an online travel insurance quote today and confidently protect your next adventure.

AirCare Flight Insurance

If you only need to protect your travel costs for a flight, AirCare may be what you need. With affordable coverage for both domestic and international flights, AirCare flight insurance helps you plan with peace of mind.

ExactCare Travel Insurance

If you want to cover your flight and other trip arrangement's ExtraCare can help. An ExactCare Travel Insurance policy can help with the unexpected like:

• Trip Cancellations/Interruptions/Delays
• Lost/Stolen travel documents
• Unexpected medical expenses

What's the difference between flight insurance and travel insurance?

The main difference is that a flight insurance policy only covers your airfare. On the other hand, a travel insurance policy helps protect your flight as well as other parts of your trip. While you're planning your next trip, think about where you're going and what you'll be doing. Once you have that, it'll be easier to choose which policy works best for your trip.

What does a flight insurance policy cover?

AirCare Flight Insurance has a variety of benefits including emergency travel assistance, 24/7/365. Some common flight coverages are:

• Airfare incase flights are cancelled or you miss a connection
• Personal items like lost or delayed luggage
• Flight delays in your departure (at the gate or on the tarmac)

AirCare Quote

What does a travel insurance policy cover?

ExactCare Travel Insurance provides all-in-one travel protection, with family friendly pricing and worldwide emergency travel assistance 24/7/365. Common things covered by travel insurance are:

• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Personal items like passports and luggage
• Medical costs like hospital and doctor expenses, medical evacuations, and more

ExactCare quote

What is not covered by travel insurance?

Your coverage is based on the plan you choose. However, in general some things that aren't normally covered by travel insurance are:

• Action and team sports, for example auto racing, pro sports travel, or other extreme sport activities
• Travel to get medical care
• Trip Cancellation because you changed your mind

For more information, please check your policy.

Is travel or trip insurance worth the cost?

Travel insurance can help protect your vacation or trips from unexpected things happening. You can travel without trip insurance but doing so brings greater risk if something goes wrong or you encounter unexpected delays. Flight insurance or trip insurance coverage can include things like flight cancellation, lost luggage, trip cancellation, emergency medical transportation, and more. Learn more about travel insurance and why you should get a travel insurance quote today!

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance typically costs 5 to 10 percent of your total trip cost, though that can be influenced by several things.

• The cost of the trip
• The length of your trip and destination
• The amount of coverage selected
• The number of travelers covered under the policy

Worldwide service and claims information.

It's easy to manage your travel insurance..

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) has made it easy to manage your travel insurance. You can:

• Visit Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection's website
• Email [email protected]

Is travel insurance worth it?

Yes. Things happen that are out of your control. Whether it's your flight being cancelled or delayed to a family emergency. Life happens and that's how travel insurance can help. Plan for the unexpected with a travel insurance policy so you can rest easy knowing you're covered.

Travel Insurance: Get the answers you're looking for.

• What travel insurance plans are available? BHTB offers AirCare (flight only) and 3 main plans: ExactCare Value, ExactCare, and ExactCare Extra. ExactCare Value provides great traveling insurance coverage for budget minded travelers. You can rest easy knowing you're covered for things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical expenses. The main difference is the maximum amount that will be covered. ExactCare and ExactCare Extra's insurance cover the same things as ExactCare Value and add coverage for missed connections and accidental death & dismemberment. The overall amount covered is also increased for each plan respectively.
• Can I get trip insurance for an extended overseas stay? Yes. We can help you with getting insurance for overseas. Please visit our overseas insurance page for information about all the options we have for you!
• Is there travel insurance that can cover my vehicle while traveling to Mexico? Your US auto insurance policy won't cover your vehicle when you drive into Mexico. We're here to help you find the Mexico car insurance you need to insure your car.
• Tips for saving money on your next vacation. No one wants to overpay things. We're here to help. Check out our 5 ways to save your money on your next family vacation.
• Where you're going
• Number of days you're traveling
• Cost of your overall trip
• Coverage you pick
• Number of people covered under your policy

If you choose to get a rate quote or service your policy online, you will be taken to the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection website which is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, not GEICO. Any information that you provide directly to Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company on its website is subject to the privacy policy posted on their website, which you should read before proceeding. GEICO assumes no responsibility for their privacy practices or your use of their website.

ExactCare is provided through Berkshire Hathaway Global Insurance Services, LLC. ExactCare and AirCare are underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company. Both coverages are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, LLC.

Benefits may vary by jurisdiction. Please contact a representative to confirm availability.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.

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Are you a resident of or looking for insurance in the State of Colorado?

We are temporarily unable to provide services in Spanish for Colorado residents. You will now be directed to an English experience.

Estamos encantados de ofrecer nuestra nueva version del sitio web en Español. Apreciamos su paciencia mientras seguimos mejorando su experiencia.

Important Information

>   COVID-19 Coverage

Travel insurance for when the unexpected happens on your trip..

Whether you’re traveling across the ocean or just across the United States, there’s a chance your trip might not go according to plan. If the unexpected happens, travel insurance can help protect you – and your wallet – from a financial loss.

Travel insurance helps protect the most important parts of your trip. From trip cancellations and lost baggage to 24-hour travel and emergency medical assistance, our travel protection plans provide important coverage for you and your trip investment, helping you feel safe, secure and connected while on your trip.

Do You Really Need Travel Insurance?

Great question. The answer is yes. Many travelers think their health insurance or free credit card insurance will completely cover their out-of-pocket expenses. However, that’s often not the case. Consider the reasons below for purchasing travel insurance for your journey.

Health Insurance Doesn't Cover Everything

According to the US Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs some domestic health insurance may cover “customary and reasonable” costs overseas. However, they often won’t pay for a medical evacuation back to the US which can cost upwards of $50,000. That’s where travel insurance can help.

Credit Card Shortfalls

There’s a chance your credit card provides some coverage for travel insurance. It’s important to check what coverage you have as this can vary depending on your card type and can even cost you additional funds to invoke. Credit card companies often have several conditions in order for their insurance to apply. For example, you may have had to pay for the entire trip using that credit card. For higher benefits coverage, purchase a specific travel insurance plan.

Travel Investment

You don’t want to cancel a vacation or lose the money you’ve invested. Cancel for a covered reason listed in your policy and Cover-More can help.

Medical Expenses

When traveling you may not always have access to the best health care. Your health and safety is a priority. If an emergency medical evacuation is necessary, we will transport you to the nearest suitable hospital for treatment. Additional benefits include transportation of a visitor of your choice to stay with you or to transport any traveling children back home, should you become hospitalized.

Personal Belongings

A trip to the beach isn't much fun without a bathing suit. If your luggage is delayed or lost, Cover-More plans go above and beyond. We can refund you for items lost, stolen or damaged, and reimburse you for necessary items you need to buy until your baggage is returned.

Travel Assistance

Call the toll-free number 24/7 prior to departing for assistance or advice on planning your trip. When you’re traveling, one toll-free call gives you access to a variety of travel services like medical emergency assistance and lost baggage retrieval.

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9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

According to our analysis of more than 50 travel insurance companies and hundreds of different travel insurance plans, the best travel insurance company is Travelex Insurance Services. In our best travel insurance ratings, we take into account traveler reviews, credit ratings and industry awards. The best travel insurance companies offer robust coverage and excellent customer service, and many offer customizable add-ons.

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

HTH Travel Insurance »

Tin Leg »

AIG Travel Guard »

Nationwide Insurance »

Seven Corners »

Generali Global Assistance »

Berkshire hathaway travel protection ».

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can help you protect the financial investment you made in your vacation when unexpected issues arise. Find the best travel insurance for the type of trip(s) you're taking and the coverages that matter most to you – from interruptions and misplaced belongings to illness and injury.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Overall
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Trip Interruptions
• HTH Travel Insurance: Best for Groups
• Tin Leg: Best Cost
• AIG Travel Guard: Best for Families
• Nationwide Insurance: Best for Last-Minute Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners: Best for 24/7 Support When Traveling
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: Best for Specialized Coverage

Customizable upgrades are available, including car rental coverage, additional medical insurance and adventure sports coverage

Medical and trip cancellation maximum are not as high as some other companies

• 100% of the insured trip cost for trip cancellation; 150% for trip interruption
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for lost, damaged or stolen bags and personal items; $200 for luggage delays
• $750 in missed connection coverage
• $50,000 in emergency medical and dental coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Annual and multitrip policies are available

Distinguishing between the company's 10 travel insurance plans can be challenging

• Up to $200,000 in trip cancellation coverage; $300,000 in trip interruption coverage
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen luggage and personal effects; $600 for bag delays
• Up to $1,600 for travel delays
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $75,000
• Epidemic coverage

Generous coverage at the mid- and high-tier levels, and great group discounts

Preexisting conditions coverage is only available at mid- and high-tier plans

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to $50,000); 200% trip interruption coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects; $400 in baggage delay coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for trip delays; $1,000 for missed connections
• $500,000 in coverage per person for sickness and accidents

Variety of plans to choose from, including two budget-friendly policies and several more premium options

More limited coverage for baggage issues than other companies

• 100% trip cancellation protection; 150% trip interruption
• $500 per person for lost, stolen or damaged baggage and personal items
• Up to $2,000 per person in travel delay coverage ($150 per day); $100 per person for missed connections
• $100,000 per person in emergency medical coverage, including issues related to COVID-19

Travel insurance policy coverage is tailored to your specific trip

Information about policy coverage inclusions is not readily available without first obtaining a quote

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of your trip's cost; trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Up to $2,500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged baggage; $500 related to luggage delays
• Up to $1,000 in missed connection and trip delay coverage
• $100,000 in emergency medical coverage

Variety of plans to choose from and coverage available up to a day before you leave on your trip

Limited trip cancellation coverage even at the highest tier

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $30,000; trip interruption coverage worth up to 200% of the trip cost (maximum of $60,000)
• $2,000 for lost, damaged or stolen baggage; $600 for baggage delays
• Up to $2,000 for trip delays; missed connection and itinerary change coverage of $500 each
• $150,000 for emergency medical and dental issues

Customer service available 24/7 via text, Whatsapp, email and phone

Cancel for any reason coverage costs extra

• 100% trip cancellation coverage (up to between $30,000 and $100,000 depending on your state of residence); interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost 
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage coverage up to $2,500; up to $600 for luggage delays
• Trip delay and missed connection coverage worth up to $1,500
• Emergency medical coverage worth up to between $250,000 and $500,000 (depending on where you live)

Generous emergency medical and emergency evacuation coverage

Coverage for those with preexisting conditions is only available on the Premium plan

• 100% reimbursement for trip cancellation; 175% reimbursement for trip interruption
• $2,000 in coverage for loss of baggage per person
• $1,000 per person in travel delay and missed connection coverage
• $250,000 in medical and dental coverage per person

In addition to single-trip plans, company offers specific road trip, adventure travel, flight and cruise insurance coverage

Coverage for missed connections or accidental death and dismemberment is not part of the most basic plan

• Trip cancellation coverage worth up to 100% of the trip cost; interruption coverage worth up to 150% of the trip cost
• $500 in coverage for lost, stolen or damaged bags and personal items; bag delay coverage worth $200
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $1,000; missed connection coverage worth up to $100
• Medical coverage worth up to $50,000

To help you better understand the costs associated with travel insurance, we requested quotes for a weeklong June 2024 trip to Spain for a solo traveler, a couple and a family. These rates should help you get a rough estimate for about how much you can expect to spend on travel insurance. For additional details on specific coverage from each travel insurance plan and to input your trip information for a quote, see our comparison table below.

Travel Insurance Types: Which One Is Right for You?

There are several types of travel insurance you'll want to evaluate before choosing the policy that's right for you. A few of the most popular types of travel insurance include:

COVID travel insurance Select insurance plans offer some or a combination of the following COVID-19-related protections: coverage for rapid or PCR testing; accommodations if you're required to quarantine during your trip if you test positive for coronavirus; health care; and trip cancellations due to you or a family member testing positive for COVID-19. Read more about the best COVID-19 travel insurance options .

Cancel for any reason insurance Cancel for any reason travel insurance works exactly how it sounds. This type of travel insurance lets you cancel your trip for any reason you want – even if your reason is that you simply decide you no longer want to go. Cancel for any reason travel insurance is typically an add-on you can purchase to go along with other types of travel insurance. For that reason, you will pay more to have this kind of coverage added to your policy.

Also note that this type of coverage typically only reimburses 50% to 80% of your nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses. You'll want to make sure you know exactly how much reimbursement you could qualify for before you invest in this type of policy. Compare the best cancel for any reason travel insurance options here .

International travel insurance Travel insurance is especially useful when traveling internationally, as it can provide medical coverage for emergencies (in some cases for COVID-19) when you're far from home. Depending which international travel insurance plan you choose, this type of travel insurance can also cover lost or delayed luggage, rental cars, travel interruptions or cancellations, and more.

Cheap travel insurance If you want travel insurance but don't want to spend a lot of money, there are plenty of cheap travel insurance options that will offer at least some protections (and peace of mind). These are typically called a company's basic or standard plan; many travel insurance companies even allow you to customize your coverage, spending as little or as much as you want. Explore your options for the cheapest travel insurance here .

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance Trip cancellation coverage can help you get reimbursement for prepaid travel expenses, such as your airfare and cruise fare, if your trip is ultimately canceled for a covered reason. Trip interruption insurance, on the other hand, kicks in to reimburse you if your trip is derailed after it starts. For instance, if you arrived at your destination and became gravely ill, it would cover the cost if you had to cut your trip short.

Trip delay insurance can help you qualify for reimbursement of any unexpected expenses you incur (think: lodging, transportation and food) in the event your trip is delayed for reasons beyond your control, such as your flight being canceled and rebooked for the next day. You will want to save your receipts to substantiate your claim if you have this coverage.

Lost, damaged, delayed or stolen bags or personal belongings Coverage for lost or stolen bags can come in handy if your checked luggage is lost by your airline or your luggage is delayed so long that you have to buy clothing and toiletries for your trip. This type of coverage can kick in to cover the cost to replace lost or stolen items you brought on your trip. It can also provide coverage for the baggage itself. It's even possible that your travel insurance policy will pay for your flight home if damages are caused to your residence and your belongings while you're away, forcing you to return home immediately.

Travel medical insurance If you find yourself sick or injured while you are on vacation, emergency medical coverage can pay for your medical expenses. With that in mind, however, you will need to find out whether the travel medical insurance you buy is primary or secondary. Where a primary policy can be used right away to cover medical bills incurred while you travel, secondary coverage only provides reimbursement after you have exhausted other medical policies you have.

You will also need to know how the travel medical coverage you purchase deals with any preexisting conditions you have, including whether you will have any coverage for preexisting conditions at all. Read more about the best travel medical insurance plans .

Evacuation insurance Imagine you break your leg while on the side of a mountain in some far-flung land without quality health care. Not only would you need travel medical insurance coverage in that case, but you would also need coverage for the exorbitant expense involved in getting you off the side of a mountain and flying you home where you can receive appropriate medical care.

Evacuation coverage can come in handy if you need it, but you will want to make sure any coverage you buy comes with incredibly high limits. According to Squaremouth, an emergency evacuation can easily cost $25,000 in North America and up to $50,000 in Europe, so the site typically suggests customers buy policies with $50,000 to $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage.

Cruise insurance Travel delays; missed connections, tours or excursions; and cruise ship disablement (when a ship encounters a mechanical issue and is unable to continue on in the journey) are just a few examples why cruise insurance can be a useful protection if you've booked a cruise vacation. Learn more about the top cruise insurance plans here .

Credit card travel insurance It is not uncommon to find credit cards that include trip cancellation and interruption coverage , trip delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage, travel accident insurance, and more. Cards that offer this coverage include popular options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card , the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card and The Platinum Card from American Express . 

Note that owning a credit card with travel insurance protection is not enough for your coverage to count: To take advantage of credit card travel insurance, you must pay for prepaid travel expenses like your airfare, hotel stay or cruise with that specific credit card. Also, note that credit cards with travel insurance have their own list of exclusions to watch out for. Many also require cardholders to pay an annual fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to buy travel insurance is normally within a few weeks of booking your trip since you may qualify for lower pricing if you book early. Keep in mind, some travel insurance providers allow you to purchase plans until the day before you depart.

Many times, you are given the option to purchase travel insurance when you book your airfare, accommodations or vacation package. Travel insurance and travel protection are frequently offered as add-ons for your trip, meaning you can pay for your vacation and some level of travel insurance at the same time.

However, many people choose to wait to buy travel insurance until after their entire vacation is booked and paid for. This helps travelers tally up all the underlying costs associated with a trip, and then choose their travel insurance provider and the level of coverage they want.

Figuring out where to buy travel insurance may be confusing but you can easily research and purchase travel insurance online these days. Some consumers prefer to shop around with a specific provider, such as Allianz or Travelex, but you can also shop and compare policies with a travel insurance platform. Popular options include:

• TravelInsurance.com: TravelInsurance.com offers travel insurance options from more than a dozen vetted insurance providers. Users can read reviews on the various travel insurance providers to find out more about previous travelers' experiences with them. Squaremouth: With Squaremouth, you can enter your trip details and compare more than 90 travel insurance plans from 20-plus providers.
• InsureMyTrip: InsureMyTrip works similarly, letting you shop around and compare plans from more than 20 travel insurance providers in one place. InsureMyTrip also offers several guarantees, including a Best Price Guarantee, a Best Plan Guarantee and a Money-Back Guarantee that promises a full refund if you decide you no longer need the plan you purchased.

Protect your trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance plans for the lowest price. Get a quote .

When you need to file a travel insurance claim, you should plan on explaining to your provider what happened to your trip and why you think your policy applies. If you planned to go on a Caribbean cruise, but your husband fell gravely ill the night before you were set to depart, you would need to explain that situation to your travel insurance company. Information you should share with your provider includes the details of why you're making a claim, who was involved and the exact circumstances of your loss.

Documentation is important, and your travel insurance provider will ask for proof of what happened. Required documentation for travel insurance typically includes any proof of a delay, receipts, copies of medical bills and more.

Most travel insurance companies let you file a claim using an online form, but some also allow you to file a claim by phone or via fax. Some travel insurance providers, such as Allianz and Travel Insured International, offer their own mobile apps you can use to buy policies and upload information or documents that substantiate your claim. In any case, you will need to provide the company with proof of your claim and the circumstances that caused it.

If your claim is initially denied, you may also need to answer some questions or submit some additional information that can highlight why you do, in fact, qualify.

Whatever you do, be honest and forthcoming with all the information in your claim. Also, be willing to provide more information or answer any questions when asked.

Travel insurance claims typically take four to six weeks to process once you file with your insurance company. However, with various flight delays and cancellations due to things like extreme weather and pilot shortages, more travelers have begun purchasing travel insurance, encountering trip issues and having to submit claims. The higher volume of claims submitted has resulted in slower turnaround times at some insurance companies.

The longer you take to file your travel insurance claim after a loss, the longer you will be waiting for reimbursement. Also note that, with many travel insurance providers, there is a time limit on how long you can submit claims after a trip. For example, with Allianz Travel Insurance and Travelex Insurance Services, you have 90 days from the date of your loss to file a claim.

You may be able to expedite the claim if you provide all the required information upfront, whereas the process could drag on longer than it needs to if you delay filing a claim or the company has to follow up with you to get more information.

Travel insurance is never required, and only you can decide whether or not it's right for you. Check out Is Travel Insurance Worth It? to see some common situations where it does (and doesn't) make sense.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in May 2024

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

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

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

How we found the best travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

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

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

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

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

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

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

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

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

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

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

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

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

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

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

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

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

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

Travel Guard by AIG

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

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

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

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

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

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

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

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

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

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

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

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

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

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

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

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

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

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

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

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

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

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

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

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

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

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

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

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

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

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

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

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

What else makes Seven Corners great:

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

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

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

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

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

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

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

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

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

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

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

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

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

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

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

What else makes TravelSafe great:

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

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

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

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

Trip cancellation

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

Trip interruption

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

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

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

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

Cancel For Any Reason

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

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

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

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

Lost baggage

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

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

Travel medical insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

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

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

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

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

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

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

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a few key questions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

In general, buying travel insurance

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

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.

Safer travel starts with travel protection

If you are a travel agent or were referred by one, enter the ACCAM number below.

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If your trip involves multiple destinations, please enter the destination where you’ll be spending the most time. It is not required to list all destinations on your policy.

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At Allianz, we continue to show our commitment to sports through our sponsorship with the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee. Read More >>

Entry Requirements & COVID-19 Travel Resources 

Confused about entry requirements for your destination? Our  interactive map shows current travel rules and restrictions for each destination, including info on COVID-19 testing, necessary travel documents and quarantine periods.

Find out how our  Epidemic Coverage Endorsement can protect your next trip from certain losses related to COVID-19.

Why do I need travel insurance?

Because sometimes..., you have to cancel a trip last-minute..

Travel insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs — including vacation rentals, car rentals, hotels and flights — if you have to cancel for a covered reason.

Travel delays leave you stranded.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for eligible meals, accommodation and transportation expenses during a covered delay.

You get sick or hurt when you're far from home.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling. We can even arrange and pay for a medical evacuation if needed.

Fender-benders are unavoidable.

Renting a car means taking on a big financial risk; even a tiny scrape can cost you hundreds. Low-priced rental car insurance lets you drive worry-free.

You need help in a hurry.

Whether you're planning a week-long road trip or a weekend getaway, you never know what might happen. Travel insurance gives you access to our 24-Hour Assistance hotline for expert, personalized support in a crisis.

Why go with Allianz Travel Insurance?

As a world leader in travel protection, we help more than 70 million people answer the call of adventure with confidence every year.

We're Protecting You

From protection for trip cancellation to medical bills abroad, our benefits are designed to help you explore reassured.

We're There For You

We've got your back with award-winning 24/7 assistance and a worldwide network of prescreened hospitals to help you get the right care.

We're Built For You

From our Allyz ® TravelSmart app to proactive SmartBenefits, we innovate for the way you travel today - and tomorrow.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

How Travel Insurance Works

How the Cancel Anytime Upgrade Works

What Does Rental Car Insurance Cover?

Is It Too Late to Buy Travel Insurance?

The Comprehensive Guide to Annual Travel Insurance

5 Ways the Allyz ®  TravelSmart App Can Help During Winter Travels

Travel Insurance with Emergency Medical Benefits

Destination Guide: Croatia

Travel Insurance & COVID-19: The Epidemic Coverage Endorsement Explained

More Travel Resources »

LATEST COVERAGE ALERTS

The events listed below are considered "known and foreseeable" for travel insurance purposes on the date listed next to the event. Please consult your policy for more information.

More Coverage Alerts »

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

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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6 best travel insurance companies of May 2024

Travel insurance can protect you against a range of unforeseen events, from lost bags to medical emergencies..

Whether you're taking a family vacation to Disney World or a romantic cruise through the Mediterranean, travel insurance could help protect your trip from the unexpected. From trip cancellations and flight delays to medical emergencies, travel insurance could protect you financially and give you peace of mind.

There are several different types of travel insurance plans to choose from when shopping for a policy. Here are a few of the common coverage types:

• Trip cancellation coverage : Helps recoup travel expenses if you can't travel, though generally limited to specific reasons.  
• Travel delay coverage: Helps cover expenses if your travel is delayed due to a covered reason. 
• Trip interruption coverage: Helps if you need to cut your trip short. Covered reasons may include an injury or illness on the trip, or a family emergency at home. 
• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation coverage: This covers unforeseen medical expenses when traveling outside the U.S. where your health insurance may not work. Emergency evacuation could help get you home if medically needed while overseas. 
• Baggage loss: Covers baggage lost, damaged or stolen during your trip.

You'll also want to consider the prospective insurer's epidemic-related coverage. Each insurance company covers epidemic-related issues, such as Covid-19, differently, so check the fine print on a policy you're considering.  

CNBC Select analyzed dozens of different U.S. travel insurance products and narrowed down the top six for all sorts of travelers. (Read more about our methodology below.)

Best travel insurance companies

• Best for lost baggage and personal belongings: AXA Assistance USA travel insurance  
• Best for customization: Travel Guard travel insurance
• Best for cancellation coverage: Allianz travel insurance
• Best for travel medical plans: USI Affinity travel insurance
• Best for cruise insurance: Nationwide travel insurance
• Best for luxury travel: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Best for lost baggage and personal belongings 

Axa assistance usa travel insurance.

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

Policy highlights

AXA Assistance USA offers several travel insurance policies that include travel interruption, trip cancellation, and the option of cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage.

24/7 assistance available

• Three tiers of plans available
• Highly rated for financial strength
• Cancel for any reason only available on highest-tier coverage

AXA Assistance USA ’s travel insurance offers three different plans for travelers to choose from, with the most basic plans including trip interruption and cancellation and baggage and personal effects coverage. The platinum plan offers coverage for lost ski days and golf rounds, ideal for trips centering around those activities. 

Best for customization

Travel guard® travel insurance.

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.

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

For those wanting to cover an upcoming trip, Travel Guard is a strong option because of its variety of coverage types. With three base packages available online and more options available through a representative, there are a variety of ways to customize your policy. The deluxe, preferred and essential plans include coverage for one related child age 17 or younger.

Best for trip cancellation coverage

Allianz travel insurance.

10 travel insurance plans make it possible to customize your coverage. For families, Allianz's OneTrip Prime package covers children age 17 and younger when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

• Trip cancellation benefits can reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable trip payments if you have to cancel your trip for one of the covered reasons stated in your plan documents. 
• Limited coverage for risky sports

Travelers who want the ability to cancel their trips will find 10 different travel insurance policies through Allianz . You can either purchase coverage for a specific trip or purchase an annual plan that covers an entire year's worth of trips. Instead of basic cancel for any reason coverage, Allianz offers a Cancel Anytime policy that can reimburse up to 80% of prepaid, non-refundable trip costs, while many other companies we reviewed cap "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) coverage at 75%. 

Best for travel medical plans

Usi affinity travel insurance.

USI Affinity has travel medical policies in addition to trip cancellation policies. Travel medical plans include an option for frequent travelers to cover multiple trips. Trip cancellation options include coverage for road trips and group travel.

• Wide variety of plans for both trip cancellation coverage and travel medical insurance
• CFAR only covers up to 70% of non-refundable trip costs

People who are traveling out of the country can find medical plans from USI Affinity to cover them during their travels. Frequent travelers can get an annual medical plan that covers them on multiple trips of 30 days or less. This company also has trip cancellation insurance policies in addition to global travel medical plans. 

Best for cruise insurance

Nationwide travel insurance.

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

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

Those planning a cruise in the future might find cruise-specific travel insurance helpful. Nationwide offers cruise-specific insurance that can cover things like emergency accidents, sicknesses, itinerary changes and trip interruptions to start. Nationwide offers three tiers of cruise insurance (universal, choice and luxury) to get the right level of coverage for every type of trip. Nationwide offers a 10-day review period on its cruise policies (though unavailable in NY or WA), giving you extra time to look over the policy and ensure it’s a good fit. 

Best for luxury travel 

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.

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

Since a luxury vacation is a large investment, insuring it could ensure that cost is covered if you have to cancel or have your trip interrupted. Berkshire Hathaway ’s LuxuryCare travel insurance has high limits of coverage for trip interruption coverage, medical expenses, and coverage for things like sporting equipment. Berkshire Hathaway also covers cruises and adventure travel with other separate plans. 

Travel insurance FAQs

How do i choose the best travel insurance .

The best travel insurance is one that will meet your needs, cover the type of travel you’re doing (and the experiences you’re planning) and will give you the peace of mind you need. 

Shopping around for travel insurance can help you make sure that you get the best deal possible. Since policies and coverage can vary by company, it could be helpful to get several quotes and compare the coverage limits and types available from several companies to find the best deal for your specific needs and trip. 

To simplify the shopping process, a travel insurance comparison site like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth could help you understand how much you’ll spend and what types of insurance coverage are available for your trip. 

Is travel insurance worth it? 

Whether or not travel insurance is worth it could depend on the types of coverage you already have, including whether or not an existing travel credit card you hold could provide similar coverage, and whether that would cover your concerns. 

Some travel credit cards offer car rental insurance , baggage insurance, trip delay insurance, and trip cancellation and interruption insurance. In addition, others offer more coverage like travel accident insurance. 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® , for example, offers travel accident insurance, emergency evacuation insurance, and coverage for baggage delays and lost luggage reimbursement. Several of CNBC Select’s top travel credit cards also offer some credit card travel insurance that could cover potential travel issues.

How much does travel insurance cost?

The average travel insurance costs between 4% and 10% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs, according to travel insurance marketplace InsureMyTrip . 

However, travel insurance costs vary based on the cost of the travel you’re insuring, as well as the age of the travelers and any extra coverage that’s added to the policy. 

Bottom line

Travel insurance can cover a range unexpected events on your trip, from lost baggage to emergency medical expenses. While costs vary based on age, type of coverage and trip costs, it can be useful if you need to cancel or cut your trip short.

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

Why trust CNBC Select?

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

Our methodology 

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

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

From there, we sorted our recommendations by the best overall and runner-up, best for cancellation coverage, best for travel medical plans, best for cruise insurance and best for luxury travel.

Note that the premiums and policy structures advertised for travel insurance companies are subject to fluctuate per the company’s policies.

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

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COVID-19 Travel Insurance Cover

6 things you need to know about covid-19 cover.

• Unlimited cover for overseas medical emergencies including  ev acuation or repatriation  cover   i f you contract COVID-19 .  
• Depending on the policy you choose, you can be covered for cancellation and disruption  if you or your travelling companion listed on your Certificate of Insurance contract COVID-19.
• Prepaid trip costs and deposits you’ve already paid for your trip can be protected for up to $5,000 if your close relative under the (age of 85) is unexpectedly hospitalised with or dies from COVID-19.
• Medical screening available for your medical conditions .
• T ravel restrictions including but not limited to lockdowns or state , territory or inter national border   closures are not covered.
• Your COVID-19 related cover is activated 72 hours after you purchase your policy. There is no cover for COVID-19 related claims during this 72 hour no COVID-19 cover period. 

As always, cover is subject to policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations. Therefore you should check the PDS to decide whether this policy is right for you.

COVID-19 travel insurance benefits

Fast Cover’s COVID-19 cover is designed to cover you for certain expenses if you or your travelling companion listed on your Certificate of Insurance contract COVID-19, or a close relative (under the age of 85) who is in Australia contracts COVID-19 and is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies.

• Benefit 27: COVID-19 Overseas Emergency Medical, Hospital and Medical Evacuation Expenses

This benefit provides you with medical support services if you experience a medical emergency because you contract COVID-19 while travelling overseas.

• Benefit 28: COVID-19 Trip Cancellation and Disruption

This benefit provides cover for trip cancellation and disruption because you, your travelling companion or close relative (under the age of 85) have contracted COVID-19. Depending on the policy that you choose, cover can include the following:

• Cancellation costs if you contract COVID-19, and your COVID-19 diagnosis is confirmed by a PCR test.
• Additional expenses if you are personally contacted by a government health authority and ordered to isolate or quarantine because you have had close contact with a person who is diagnosed with COVID-19 and who is named on your Certificate of Insurance.
• Additional expenses if you are denied boarding your pre-paid scheduled public transport during your trip because you failed a COVID-19 screening procedure administered by the airline, bus line, shipping line or rail authority.
• Additional expenses to return to Australia if your close relative (under the age of 85) who lives in Australia is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies from COVID-19 during your trip.

What can you have cover for?

Overseas emergency medical & hospital expenses.

Emergency overseas medical and  hospital  expenses  if  you  contract C OVID-19  while on  your   trip.

Overseas emergency medical repatriation expenses

Medical evacuation expenses incurred by you until you get back to Australia if you're diagnosed with COVID-19.

Trip cancellation when diagnosed with COVID-19

Your trip's cancelled because you or your travelling companion listed on your Certificate of Insurance contract COVID-19, or your close relative (under the age of 85) in Australia is unexpectedly hospitalised with, or dies from COVID-19.

No cover is available under  the Basics policy for COVID-19 Trip Cancellation and Disruption benefit.

Trip disruption

Your trip's disrupted because  you or   your   travelling companion who is listed on your policy, contract COVID-19 while travelling.

Denied boarding

During your trip you're denied boarding on your pre-paid scheduled public transport such as a plane or bus, because you failed a COVID-19 screening procedure administered by the airline, bus line, shipping line or rail authority.

You're personally contacted by a government health authority during your trip, and ordered to isolate or quarantine because you're a close contact of someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and who is listed on your Certificate of Insurance.

Emergency childcare

A qualified childcare worker will take care of your dependants who are travelling with you, listed on your Certificate of Insurance and in your full-time care, if you've been diagnosed with COVID-19.

Family emergency

Your close relative (under the age of 85) in Australia is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies due to COVID-19.

Pre-trip and on-trip COVID-19 cover

Pre-trip covid-19 cover.

Trip cancellation cover is available if you need to cancel your trip due to COVID-19, because:

• You contract COVID-19
• Your travel companion who is listed on your Certificate of Insurance contracts COVID-19
• A close relative (under the age of 85) in Australia is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies due to COVID-19

On-trip COVID-19 medical cover

If you're overseas and you or your travelling companion who is listed on your policy tests positive to COVID-19, there are benefits available for:

• Overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses
• Overseas emergency medical repatriation

There's no medical cover if you're on a domestic trip or once you return to Australia.

On-trip COVID-19 disruption cover

If you're on your trip and you, your travelling companion who is listed on your policy or a close relative in Australia contracts COVID-19, there are policy benefits available for:

• Cancelled or shortened trips
• Trip disruption expenses such as reasonable accommodation and travel expenses you incur until you are able to continue your trip.
• A childcare worker to look after your dependants who are travelling with you and in your full-time care
• Your expenses to fly home if your close relative (under the age of 85) is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies

Conditions and limitations applying to COVID-19 cover

• There's no cover if you can't travel, continue with your trip, or want to cut your trip short because any government body or local health authority closes its borders or imposes any other travel restriction in a relevant area.
• There's no cover for mandatory arrival quarantine programs, domestically or overseas, whether the quarantine is made mandatory prior to your departure or whilst on your trip. This exclusion applies even if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have been personally contacted by a government health authority and ordered to isolate or quarantine because you have had contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
• Your policy is only valid if you purchase your policy before you leave your home in Australia for your overseas trip, or for domestic trips, before you leave your home. 
• Ther is no cover for any claim where your COVID-19 diagnosis is made within 72 hours of your policy being purchased.
• All COVID-19 diagnoses must be confirmed by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test.
• You are deemed to be a close contact of someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19
• Someone else is diagnosed with COVID-19 or becomes unwell because of COVID-19

unless that person is named on your Certificate of Insurance.

• As stated in the ‘General Exclusions that apply to all benefits’ in the PDS, there's no cover where a travel advisory risk rating of ‘Do Not Travel’ (or equivalent if the term is replaced) is issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before the start date of your trip.
• If the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade issues a travel advisory risk rating of ‘Do Not Travel’ after you've commenced your trip, cover will be as per the terms and conditions of your policy.

Does travel insurance cover the COVID-19 coronavirus?

Travel insurance can provide cover for COVID-19 related events, including cover for your:

• Medical and hospital expenses if you contract COVID-19 while overseas .
• C ancellation costs for your pre-booked accommodation, or your trip disruption expenses if you or your travelling companion who is listed on your policy contract COVID-19.
• Expenses to return to Australia if your close relative in Australia is unexpectedly hospitalised or dies due to COVID-19.
• Dependants who are travelling with you and in your full-time care, to be looked after by a childcare worker if you're not able to because you've contracted COVID-19.

Can I cover just COVID-19?

While concern about COVID-19 is no doubt at the forefront of everyone's minds, other unexpected events may still occur while you're travelling, including slipping on a cobble stone and breaking your ankle, your luggage is stolen, or a natural disaster derails your travel plans.

Depending on the type of travel insurance policy that you take out, you can have cover for all the above scenarios and more on the below policies.

• Comprehensive
• Snow Sports Plus
• Standard Saver
• Domestic Plus

What is not covered?

Whilst it would be ideal for travel insurance to cover every possible COVID-19 eventuality, doing so would increase the cost of a policy significantly. To be clear and upfront, below you'll find some common scenarios for the two COVID-19 benefits,

where we will  not pay any claims, costs, or losses.

We will not pay for any claims, costs, or losses arising from or related to:

• Any claim if you purchased this policy while already overseas, or if you're going on a domestic cruise, have already left your home.
• Any COVID-19 testing costs unless undertaken as part of your hospitalisation overseas.
• Any claim where your COVID-19 diagnoses is made within 72 hours of your policy being issued.

Any Existing Medical Condition that is not included in your coverage.

• When you have not notified us as soon as practical of your admittance to hospital.
• Medical evacuation, funeral services or cremation or bringing your remains back to Australia unless it has been first approved by us.
• If you decline to promptly follow our reasonable medical advice (and we also will not be responsible for subsequent medical, hospital or medical evacuation expenses).
• The continuation or follow up of medical treatment (including medication and ongoing immunisations) that started prior to your trip.
• After 2 weeks of treatment by a chiropractor or physiotherapist unless approved by us.
• Medical evacuation or the transportation of your remains from Australia to an overseas country.
• Emergency medical treatment, hospital, or medical evacuation expenses which is provided in Australia (including any gap payments).
• If you have received medical care that is covered by a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement between Australia and your destination country.
• Any claim if you travel overseas to any country other than listed on your Certificate of Insurance.
• More than the applicable limits set out in the Benefit tables in the PDS .
• Please also read General Exclusions that apply to all benefits as stated in  the   PDS .

We will not pay for any claims, costs, or losses arising from or related to:

• The closure of any border prior to or during your trip.
• Any travel restriction related to a relevant area such as your home or destination. This exclusion applies even if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are a contact of a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
• Any claim if you travel overseas to any country which has a travel advisory risk rating of ‘Do Not Travel’ (or equivalent if this term is replaced) issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before the start date of your trip.
• Any claim where you, your travelling companion or close relative's COVID-19 diagnoses is made within 72 hours of the policy being issued.
• Any claim if you purchased this policy while already overseas, or for domestic trips, before you leave your home. 
• Any costs without proof of the amount, and if we are reimbursing you directly, proof that you have paid it.
• Any claim for additional accommodation or travel expenses, which occurs before your first prepaid scheduled transport, and it is reasonable for you to return to your usual place of residence.
• Any claim arising from someone not named on your Certificate of Insurance being diagnosed with COVID-19 or being classified as a close contact, other than a close relative in Australia who is unexpectedly hospitalised in a critical condition with COVID-19, or unexpectedly dies due to COVID-19.
• Any trip that includes travel on cruise ships unless the “cruise” option is selected at the time you took out your policy and is shown on your Certificate of Insurance.
• You or your travelling companion changing plans or deciding not to continue with the intended trip after the imposition of any travel restriction, change in government advice or status of the number of COVID-19 cases in a relevant area.
• Any tour operator or wholesaler, travel agent, airline or other carrier or accommodation provider cancelling any part of the trip due to any reason arising from COVID-19.
• Please also read General Exclusions that apply to all benefits as stated in  the  PDS .

Pandemic General Exclusion and COVID-19

The PDS includes General Exclusions which apply to your policy regardless of when you purchased your policy, and these include:

1. Cover for pandemics and epidemics only applies for specific situations under:

• Benefit 28: COVID-19 COVID-19 Trip Cancellation and Disruption

Any other COVID-19 claims which are not provided for under the above 2 benefits is not covered.

2. There's no cover If you don't follow the advice in the mass media or any government or other official body’s warning about a contagious disease (including an epidemic or pandemic).

3. There's no cover if you travel to a country where a travel advisory risk rating of ‘Do Not Travel’ (or equivalent if this term is replaced) was issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before the start date of your trip

4. There's no cover if you do not reasonably take appropriate action to avoid or minimise any potential claim under your policy (including delay of travel to the country or part of the country referred to in the warning).

Are border closures or lockdowns covered?

No cover for the closure of borders.

Unfortunately, we  aren't able to  cover state, territory and international border closures. We'd love to cover  everything  but your policy premium would be huge! The good news is, most airlines, hotels, cruise and tour companies are flexible if you're unable to go on your trip due to a border closure.  So  you wouldn't necessarily have any  out of pocket  travel expenses if a border was shut and you couldn't go on your holiday.   

It's a good idea to check any cancellation policies before you purchase your airline ticket, book a hotel, cruise or tour, so you know what would happen if there's a border closure. Booking direct, and with reputable travel providers can be a good idea, as they may be able to give you more options if you can't   travel.

Border closures not covered

• New South Wales
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Australian Capital Territory
• Northern Territory
• Including instances such as the temp or ary border closure for Australians travelling from India in May 2021.  
• International cruise ship ban of cruise ships entering Australian waters and stopping at Australian Ports.
• For example   New Zealand shutting the border to NSW   whilst keeping the Trans-Tasman Travel Bubble open.
• Council border
• Metropolitan area border
• Regional area border
• Radius from home travel restriction
• Any type of established border within a state, territory or country.

No cover for lockdowns of relevant areas

There's no cover for any government order affecting a relevant area, including but not limited to:

• imposition of a lockdown
• border closures
• mandatory isolation or
• quarantine requirements ordered by a government authority (local, country or otherwise).

A 'relevant area' means in an area, state or territory, a part of a state or territory, region, or a place where you or your travelling companion usually resides, have recently travelled to, are planning to travel to or are currently travelling in.

No cover for travel requirements

There's no cover for any travel restriction  including but not limited to:

• entry requirement,
• border pass or
• travel permit system.

Buying COVID-19 travel insurance

To buy travel insurance for COVID-19, start by getting a quote. See below for answers to some questions you may have about buying travel insurance for COVID-19.

Does Fast Cover cover COVID-19?

Fast Cover Travel Insurance provides cover for trip cancellation or disruption due to Covid-19 for domestic trips, domestic cruises and selected international destinations. 

COVID-19 cover is not available for all countries or for all travellers. The country you're traveling to, your age and existing medical conditions are all considered, and used to determine if your trip is eligible for cover.

To find out if you can get travel insurance for COVID-19, simply get a fast quote to check your eligibility.

How do I buy travel insurance with COVID-19 Cover?

• Get a quote on the Fast Cover website or call us on 1300 409 322 for a quote over the phone. 
• Complete the quick questionnaire including pre-existing medical conditions questions.
• Choose the policy that best suits your trip.
• Agree to the terms and conditions of the policy and purchase your policy.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccination to purchase travel insurance or cover for COVID-19?

You do not need to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to apply for a Fast Cover travel insurance policy. 

However, you may wish to check any requirements of the cruise company, tour company or the visa and entry requirements for the country you're travelling to, as some may require you to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test for COVID-19. There are exclusions in the PDS that may apply, including claims arising from being denied boarding of any airline, shipping line or other carrier due to COVID-19 vaccination requirements, therefore you should consider the PDS to decide whether this policy is right for you.

Do I need a negative COVID-19 test to purchase a travel insurance policy?

You are not required to perform a COVID-19 test to purchase a policy. 

All travellers may wish to check with their airline, cruise company and country they're visiting, to see if there are any vaccination, testing or travel insurance requirements.

COVID-19 travel insurance Australia

Whether we're forced to due to the Australian border closure, or it was Hamish Blake who convinced us to ' Holiday here this year ',  travelling in Australia has certainly become very popular, and trying to book something can be difficult. You've probably all experienced this when you've tried to find accommodation on Booking.com ² or rent a car ³ on a long weekend or during school holidays. 

Australian COVID-19 cover is available if you're planning on going on a domestic trip. If your travel within Australia is affected because you, your travelling companion listed on your policy, or close relative is unexpectedly hospitalised for COVID-19 or unexpectedly dies from COVID-19, there's cover to help you with your out of pocket expenses. 

Domestic COVID-19 insurance

Domestic COVID-19 insurance provides you with cancellation and trip disruption cover if you have to cancel or amend your domestic holiday due to COVID-19.

There's no medical or evacuation cover for sickness from COVID-19 for Australian domestic trips. As with any sickness or injury, you have medical cover under Medicare and/or your private health insurance.   Therefore, there's no cover for medical related expenses incurred in Australia as they are managed by the public health system.

International COVID-19 Travel Insurance

Cover for COVID-19 may be available to international countries where the Australian Government does not have a travel ban in place for that country. If you're looking for international COVID-19 travel insurance and the Australian Government has listed the travel status for your destination on  Smartaveller  as one of the below statuses, get a quote and depending on your trip details, you may be eligible for a COVID-19 international travel insurance policy . 

Level 1 - Exercise normal safety precautions

Level 2 - Exercise a high degree of caution

Level 3 - Reconsider your need to travel

New Zealand COVID-19 insurance

NZ COVID -19  travel insurance is available for travel to New Zealand when the travel status is not 'Do not travel' on Smartraveller . 

COVID -19 travel insurance for New Zealand can provide pre-trip and on-trip cover when you're in New Zealand visiting family and friends or simply on holiday. 

COVID-19 cruise travel insurance

Fast Cover cruise policies provide cover for COVID-19 to eligible travellers going on small ship cruising within Australia.  You can only have cover if you select the 'cruise' option at the time you took out your policy and this is shown on your Certificate of Insurance.

Will my COVID-19 policy cover me for a cruise?

COVID-19 travel insurance can provide cover for COVID-19 for small ship cruising within Australia. You can still purchase travel insurance for a cruise   as long as   it does not contravene the Government cruise ban and meets any restrictions on cruise duration , passenger numbers or destinations that are stipulated in our cruise quote questions. 

Who can purchase COVID -19   t ravel insurance?

All different types of travellers can apply for the COVID -19 Pack including the types of travellers listed below. Simply get a quote to check your eligibility for COVID -19  cover.

Singles travellers

Solo  or single travellers.

Duo travellers

Two people travelling together including spouses, couples, de facto, siblings, cousins, friends and work mates.

Senior travellers up to the age of 89. 

Family units  including grandparents travelling with their grandchildren and multi-generational travellers.

Skiers & boarders

Travellers doing snow sports can get cover for COVID-19. 

Working holidays

Travellers who want to travel for an extended period of time and earn money whilst doing so.

The COVID-19 pandemic

When did covid-19 become a pandemic.

The Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) outbreak constituted an epidemic and pandemic under our travel insurance policies on the 24th January 2020.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic on 11 th   Match 2020.

Who named novel coronavirus COVID-19?

The  WHO   named the novel coronavirus on 11 th   February 2020. It named it “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2” or SARS-CoV-2 due to it being genetically related to the 2002 coronavirus known as SARS. Its abbreviated name is COVID-19 with the ‘CO' standing for Corona, 'VI' for Virus, 'D' for Disease and 19 for the year it was first detected, which was 2019.

Safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic

Even though the global pandemic remains, domestic travel has continued and international travel has recommenced. As we get back to travelling more often and further from home, it's a good idea to be as safe as we can be by getting fully vaccinated if we're eligible and practicing good COVID-19 hygiene. 

Get vaccinated before you travel

If you're eligible, it's highly recommended you're fully vaccinated before you go travelling. This means having both vaccinations and any boosters, then waiting at least 14 days before you travel, especially if you're travelling internationally. Check your vaccine eligibility at health.gov.au  and speak with your GP if you're planning any travel. 

It's also a good idea to check any countries you're travelling to as some may require you to be fully vaccinated and provide proof to enter the country.

Practice good hygiene

Wherever you're travelling to and regardless of the status of the pandemic in your travel destination, you should practice good hygiene. Even if you've already been vaccinated, you should always continue to practice good pandemic hygiene. 

You never know when an outbreak can occur and after it's occurred, it's too late to start.

10 pandemic travel hygiene tips

• Wash your hands regularly for more than 20 seconds.
• Carry and use hand sanitiser regularly.
• Wear a face mask when in transit such as on the plane, airports and public transport.  Whilst airports do their best to separate travellers, international travellers who have contracted COVID-19 are regularly transiting through airports and into quarantine. 
• Wear a face mask in taxis and Ubers.
• Wear a face mask when instructed by local authorities and media.
• Follow local advice for face masks, social distancing, check-in to venues and lockdowns.
• Socially distance regardless of the current status of COVID-19 in your location.
• Monitor the media for changes in the COVID-19 situation and follow any instructions.
• If you experience any symptoms, get tested immediately and self isolate until you have received a negative result.
• Seek medical attention immediately if needed, wear a face mask, advise medical staff on arrival if you're experiencing COVID-19 like symptoms and present your Medicare card and passport in Reciprocal Health Care Agreement countries. Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 and admitted to hospital.

COVID-19 24/7 emergency assistance

If you contract and test positive to COVID-19, particularly when overseas and have been admitted to a hospital, you should contact our emergency assistance team immediately. You should also present your Medicare card and passport if you're in a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement country. 

Reciprocal Health Care Agreement countries

• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Northern Ireland
• Republic of Ireland

You should always present your Medicare Card and passport if you have to attend a medical centre or hospital for COVID-19 or any other sickness or injury.

COVID-19 claims

If your trip has been affected by you, your travelling companion or a close relative contracting COVID-19, you may be able to claim for out of pocket expenses if you have had to cancel your trip or it has been disrupted. If you're overseas and have COVID-19 related medical costs, you may also have cover, for which you can submit a claim.

If you need to make a COVID-19 claim on your travel insurance policy, please visit our claims page to lodge an online claim .

Check our COVID-19 FAQs for answers to questions you may have about what is and isn't covered and some example scenarios which you may be able to claim for.

COVID Travel Insurance FAQs

Can i change the travel dates on my policy because of covid-19.

If your trip has been affected by COVID-19 and you want to change your departure and/or return dates, log into Your Policy or contact us .

You will need to make changes to your departure date before your trip starts (this is the Depart date that you selected when you purchased your policy) and your return date before your policy ends (this is the Return date that you selected when you purchased your policy). You cannot change your Depart date or Return date after they have occurred.

Please note, there may be an additional charge depending on your new travel dates.

Please refer to Product Disclosure Statement  for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.

Am I covered if the Australian border or a state or territory border is shut preventing me from taking my trip?

Under our COVID-19 Trip Cancellation and Disruption benefit, there is no cover for any claims related to or arising from border closures, lockdowns, lockouts or other travel restrictions imposed within Australia or overseas.

As each individual’s circumstances are different, you should submit a claim and our claims team will make a decision based on your particular circumstances.

Please refer to Product Disclosure Statement for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.

Am I covered if I'm worried about COVID-19 and I want to cancel my trip?

Claims arising from epidemics and pandemics are excluded, except those expenses that are specifically included under our COVID-19 benefits including Overseas Emergency medical, hospital and medical evacuation expenses and/or COVID-19 Trip Cancellation and Disruption expenses. Both benefits are related to you or your travelling companion listed on your Certificate of Insurance contracting COVID-19.

No cover is available under our benefits for changing or cancelling your trip if you change your mind or have concerns about COVID-19.

See our Product Disclosure Statement  for full terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply.

Am I covered if I have cold or flu like symptoms and choose not to travel?

Cover under our COVID-19 benefits is only available in the event that you or your travelling companion contract COVID-19.

Cover under our Trip Cancellation Expenses benefit may be available depending on the circumstances surrounding your condition.

Please refer to our Product Disclosure Statement  for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.

2. Referral fee arrangement exists.

This promotion is only available to Fast Cover customers. Bookings made with the Booking.com app are not eligible for this promotion. Cancelled and “no show” bookings are not eligible. The reward will be credited at least 64 calendar days after completion of stay in the accommodation. Accommodations that do not accept credit cards are not eligible for the offer. These are accommodations that only accept cash as a mode of payment and do not have a “cashback” badge displayed on their listing. The offer is subject to terms and conditions of Booking.com. In case of dispute, the decision of Booking.com and Fast Cover shall be final. All conditions of the promotion must be met at the time the booking is made; no retroactive claims will be allowed. The reward will be posted as a credit to the user's Booking Wallet (Wallet Credit). The reward can either be redeemed towards a booking, or transferred to a valid credit/debit card. The user must hold a valid account on Booking.com, and if the reward will be paid out to a credit card, they must have up-to-date valid credit card information added to the account. Wallet Credit can only be redeemed for properties that accept Booking Wallet payments. Bookings paid for with previously earned Wallet Credit may not be eligible to earn additional credit. The maximum amount of Wallet Credit that Booking.com B.V. will award is €1,000 per booking. Wallet Credit will be granted only to the user who made the booking. Wallet Credits have an expiration period as from time to time determined by Booking.com. Different expiration periods can be applied to different credits. The expiration date of each Credit is displayed on  www.booking.com  in the user account settings section. The complete conditions of use of the Booking Wallet and the Wallet Credit are outlined  here  (login required). In the event of an inconsistency or discrepancy about the contents of these summarized conditions of use then the complete conditions of use, to the extent permitted by law, shall apply, prevail, and be conclusive.

3. Referral fee arrangement exists.

^ Price as at 20/03/2024 compared to the price calculated today for this policy.

* See Product Disclosure Statement for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.

† Fast Cover has a referral arrangement with this company.

The entity that referred you does not act for Fast Cover and may receive remuneration from us. You can ask them or us for more details. Make sure any information listed in any quote provided remains accurate and if not, please change it on our website.

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Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

Fast Cover Travel Insurance Reviews

Buying travel insurance shouldn’t be complicated, which is why Fast Cover have made it Fast and Simple. You can enjoy your holiday because they can provide cover for many unexpected circumstances just in case something goes wrong. They offer 24/7 emergency assistance no matter where you are in the world and are underwritten by Certain Underwriters at Lloyd's.

Customer Experience

Claims experience, value for money.

Will avoid paying out on your claims

I will never buy Fast Cover Travel Insurance again. They rejected every claim. My new iPad screen c...  Read more

I will never buy Fast Cover Travel Insurance again. They rejected every claim. My new iPad screen cracked. They said it was wear and tear - Fast Travel said I couldn't claim. The wheel broke on my new luggage. They said it was wear and tear - Fast Travel said I couldn't claim. My flights were cancelled multiple times when I was in Nepal. I was unable to make a claim because Fast Cover Travel required THE AIRLINE to provide a letter explaining the reasoning for the cancellation. After several attempts to procure the letter from the airline (with no luck), I tried to explain the situation to Fast Cover Travel - they didn't care. If I didn't have the letter, I couldn't make the claim. Lastly, I lost/accidentally left my sunglasses on a bus. Couldn't claim. Here is the list of exclusions. Feel free to read through them. As far as I can see from the exclusions, it's impossible to claim on something you have lost. a) when you do not leave your luggage and personal effects in a secure place; or b) leaving your luggage and personal effects with a person you did not know prior to commencing your trip; or c) leaving your luggage and personal effects with a person not named on your Certificate of Insurance or who is not a travelling companion; or d) leaving your luggage and personal effects where they can be taken without your knowledge, including but not limited to on the beach, poolside while you swim, in the seat pocket of your plane seat and includes if you are asleep and your belongings are taken without you knowing; or e) leaving your luggage and personal effects at such a distance from you that you are reasonably unable to prevent them from being taken; or f) forgetting or misplacing your luggage and personal effects, leaving them behind or walking away from them.

1 comment on this review

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Looked like a good policy for me

I found it easy to find the info I needed to work out if it was I wanted for my trip. A quick process...  Read more

I found it easy to find the info I needed to work out if it was I wanted for my trip. A quick process too.

Travel Insurance made Easy!

I have used Fast Cover Travel Insurance in the past. I did however compare the various other policie...  Read more

I have used Fast Cover Travel Insurance in the past. I did however compare the various other policies prior to purchasing this cover and hence I was happy to go with this company once again, as it ticked all the right boxes for me!

First Cover Travel Insurance Great service

I submitted claimed that my wife has been sick on holidays.First Cover Travel Insurance gave me time ...  Read more

I submitted claimed that my wife has been sick on holidays.First Cover Travel Insurance gave me time frame.They pay my claim money on time with any further questions.Great value great service.I like there service

Winter sports fun for 8 weeks

Great supportive staff who were very knowledgeable about the product. Gave good direction and suggest...  Read more

Great supportive staff who were very knowledgeable about the product. Gave good direction and suggestions about cover we would need with car rental, snow sports and general travel. Professional team

FANTASTIC CUSTOMER SERVICE & GREAT SOLUTION FOR CLIENT

We had to cancel our insurance because our dog Lili suffered a serious accident that required immedia...  Read more

We had to cancel our insurance because our dog Lili suffered a serious accident that required immediate surgery and we now have 12 weeks of rehabilitation. It is important that we are home to ensure that Lili has best chance of recovery. WE had to cancel our insurance. We were entitled to 60% refund under their Product conditions but after Ashly (fantastic employee - excellent customer service and empathy) spoke to her manager the refund was increased to 100%. No need to forward supportive documentation. Will we use fast cover again? This was our first experience with them after being with another Insurance Company for 30+ years. I doubt we will get to 30 years but that’s more to do with my lifespan not theirs, but we now will be long term loyal customers. We run a successful Property Management Business for the past 40 years with loyal clients & customers and it has been successful because our core values are based on the same lateral and empathic solution displayed above. Thanks again. Postcript: Most workers are trained to simply do their job within their designated parameters - not budge or be flexible. It is refreshing to see a worker - Ashley taking initiative in this way. These days it is not something you see in workers. Thanks Ashly and hopefully she receives feedback from Management re this review. Regards Paul, Valerie, Ollie & Lili Domain Rental Management Hove South Australia

2 comments on this review

Still waiting for my claim to be assessed months after submitting

Unfortunately my experience with FastCover travel insurance has been absolutely awful. During my trav...  Read more

Unfortunately my experience with FastCover travel insurance has been absolutely awful. During my travels I needed to see a GP and get a script for antibiotics. I submitted my claim the next day with all of the documentation I was told to collect. FastCover outsource claims to a 3rd party business, who sent me a generic email that my claim had been received and to allow for 10 business days before a decision has been made. 12 business days go by with no communication, so I follow up with emails, I eventually get a reply stating that the increase in claims has increased now that travel has recommenced post pandemic and to allow another 10 business days...which I did. I email again, wanting to know where my claim is up to, I get told my documents were uploaded in the wrong format and if I could resend them in a different format, which I did on the same day. More weeks go by, all of my emails requesting updates go unanswered by the claims assessor. I sent a very angry email to FastCover this week demanding an update before I take my complaint to the state Ombudsman. I miraculously get an email from the claims assessor stating they were still waiting on me to resend my documents in the right format. I replied stating that I had already done this and included a screenshot of this claims assessor even acknowledging receipt of the resent documents. And this is where I am up to now, no doubt the saga will continue! I hate to think if something serious occurred whilst I was overseas and needed more from this travel insurance company then just a short 15 minute GP appointment. Highly incompetent and if I hadn't been constantly emailing and trying to move it along, my claim would have been ignored. Please save yourself the money, time and frustration and go with another travel insurance company who know how to do their job instead of evading travel claims.

Excellent. Look no further for travel insurance

This is the second time we have had to make a medical claim while travelling in the USA and again Fas...  Read more

This is the second time we have had to make a medical claim while travelling in the USA and again Fastcover was professional, easy to communicate with (24 hours), helpful and even caring! Good value, excellent service, claim resolved in record time. We will always use Fastcover and recommend everyone else do so as well.

Terrible never use again

Terrible service doesn't get back to you and won't cover due to flight cancellation on operat...  Read more

Terrible service doesn't get back to you and won't cover due to flight cancellation on operational issues be careful of them.

0 comment on this review

Real good travel insurance

Fast claims (I've been using fast cover for over ten years and only had to claim once) but when I...  Read more

Fast claims (I've been using fast cover for over ten years and only had to claim once) but when I did it was very easy and the customer service team is very helpful Thanks fast cover!

I am glad I didn't have to claim as deferring my policy was bad enough

I had to defer my travel due to closing of the trans-tasman bubble. I tried to defer my policy as I ...  Read more

I had to defer my travel due to closing of the trans-tasman bubble. I tried to defer my policy as I had been assured I would be able to. The fee to defer was $205. The initial total policy cost was about $40 less than this & I could only defer for 6 months. Purchase at your own peril

Disgusting treatment during the Covid pandemic.

Fast Cover were pathetic. I selected Fast Cover based on a recommendation from a family memb...  Read more

Fast Cover were pathetic. I selected Fast Cover based on a recommendation from a family member who had used them previously, and the ability to be able to extend the policy beyond 12 months, once overseas. After one month abroad, I was issued with an email statement stating that my partner and I would no longer be covered for any claims relating to Covid, as the virus had been declared a pandemic. I accepted this risk, and chose to remain abroad. Later in the year, as the situation has developed, I have decided to return to Australia, but due to the ongoing pandemic, this has proved a difficult and costly process. I have managed to secure flights home, approximately two weeks after the expiration of my current policy. I contacted Fast Cover, and was told that due to the pandemic they could not cover for a period of more than 24 months, due to the increased risks from the virus - DESPITE the fact that they have stated no coverage is being provided relating to the virus. When I pointed out that I had only held a 12 month policy, they then informed me that in fact, as I had been overseas for less than 12 months, I could not extend my coverage beyond 12 months. To use the Covid virus as an excuse to deny an extension to a travel insurance policy for which I would have been otherwise eligible for, whilst at the same time openly stating that no cover is being provided for any claims related to the Covid shows a complete lack of responsibility to your customers. I am embarrassed to have ever taken out a policy with Fast Cover, and will ensure no-one I know ever makes the same mistake.

Fast Cover FAQ

How many people can i include in my policy.

You can only purchase insurance for parties of two adults and up to 10 children online. If you have a larger group, call Fast Cover to see how many additional people can be added to your policy.

Am I covered if I go on a cruise?

Yes, you are covered for cruises by purchasing Plan M or Plans A, B, C or S and selecting Cruise. If you are cruising Australian waters you must purchase region 2.

Am I covered for skiing and my equipment?

Yes if you purchase Comprehensive Policy including Snow cover. Purchasing the Snow Travel Insurance policy provides cover for off piste skiing, snow cat skiing, heli skiing, advanced terrain and snow-mobiling. It covers you for ski equipment, prepaid ski passes and ski hire and lessons.

Can I pay to reduce or cancel my excess?

You can remove the standard $200 Excess to $0 or reduce the excess amount to $100 on Plans A, B, C, E, M or S by paying an additional premium. There is no Excess on Domestic policies & Plan D.

What additional extras are there?

Fast Cover allows you to add on a Cruise option. The Comprehensive Plans also let you add on a snow option. On most policies, there are options to adjust your Excess levels, increase the cover on specified luggage items, add on an Adventure Pack, Golf Pack, Bicycle Pack or Rental Vehicle Insurance Excess.

Am I covered if my tour company collapses?

No, Fast Cover doesn't provide protection from insolvency.

I'm not an Australian resident- can I buy cover?

This policy is only available to travellers who are permanent residents of Australia unless otherwise agreed.

What size moped or motorbike am I covered to ride overseas?

You are covered to ride a moped or scooter with an engine capacity of 50cc or less if hold a current Australian drivers licence or drivers licence for the country you are riding in. For a moped or motorbike with an engine capacity greater than 50cc you must also hold a current Australian Motor Cycle Licence or motor cycle licence for the country you are riding in to be covered.

How long is their single trip cover for?

Can i extend my policy from overseas.

If you decide to lengthen you trip you can do so for up to 12 months. Call Fast Cover on 1300 409 322.

Do they cover for my rental vehicle excess?

Fast Cover will reimburse the rental vehicle excess or the cost of repairing the vehicle whichever is the less if, during the journey, the rental vehicle is involved in an accident or is damaged or stolen while in your custody.

Who underwrites them?

Fast Cover is underwritten by Hollard, one of the world’s leading insurers.

What's their cooling off period?

14 day no questions asked money back guarantee.

Where are they based?

Level 31/31 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000

Our Travel Insurance Comparision Helps You

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Comparetravelinsurance.com.au is Australia’s leading comparison site solely focused on travel insurance.

Our comparison is a free service that allows users to compare quotes in a few simple steps based on limited personal criteria. Comparisons supplied are not a recommendation or opinion about the suitability of a policy for a user. Comparisons are default ranked according to price and users have the ability to sort by popular cover levels. Whilst we compare a vast range of policies, we do not compare all providers in the market. This site compares the following brands: 1Cover, AllClear, Budget Direct, Downunder, Fast Cover Travel Insurance, Insure4Less, InsureandGo, iTrek, Simply Travel Insurance, Ski-Insurance, Travel Insurance Saver, Travel Insuranz, Wise Traveller, Zoom Travel Insurance . The directors and shareholders are common with companies i-Trek Pty Ltd, Zoom Travel Insurance and 1Cover Pty Ltd including it’s subsidiary brand Ski-insurance. CoverDirect takes all reasonable care when preparing this information but does not warrant its accuracy. Pricing information is supplied by the providers who participate on this site and should be verified with the insurer before you purchase. This site links users to the website of the provider to verify quotes and access the relevant PDS to understand what is, and is not, covered by a policy prior to purchase.

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• Best overall
• Best for expensive trips
• Best for exotic trips
• Best for annual plans

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

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

Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good option for frequent travelers thanks to its annual multi-trip policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Doesn't increase premium for trips longer than 30 days, meaning it could be one of the more affordable options for a long trip
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans include free coverage for children 17 and under
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Concierge included with some plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Coverage for medical emergency is lower than some competitors' policies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Plans don't include coverage contact sports and high-altitude activities
• Single and multi-trip plans available
• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage starting at up to $10,000 (higher limits with more expensive plans)
• Preexisting medical condition coverage available with some plans

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 3 travel insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason rider available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable travel insurance premiums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews of claims process are mixed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Buyers may not get specialty coverage for sports equipment and other high value items
• Trip cancellation for 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000 per person
• Medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

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

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

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

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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