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Summary: Best Travel Insurance Companies
Company | Company - Logo | Forbes Advisor Rating | Forbes Advisor rating | Our expert take | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | LEARN-MORE | Top-scoring policy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Travel Insured International | 5.0 | Best for Non-Medical Evacuation | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Worldwide Trip Protector | |||
WorldTrips | 5.0 | Great for Add-On Coverage | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Atlas Journey Premier and Atlas Journey Preferred | |||
TravelSafe | 4.8 | Best for Missed Connections | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Classic Plus | |||
Nationwide | 4.6 | Best for Policy Perks | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Cruise Luxury | |||
AIG | 4.3 | Best for Customization | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Travel Guard Deluxe and Travel Guard Preferred | |||
Seven Corners | 4.3 | Great for Medical & Evacuation | Get A Quote | On Seven Corners' Secure Website | Trip Protection Choice | |||
AXA Assistance USA | 4.2 | Best for Baggage | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Platinum | |||
Generali Global Assistance | 4.2 | Great for Pre-Existing Medical Condition Coverage | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Premium | |||
Travelex | 4.2 | Best for Families | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Travel Select | |||
HTH Worldwide | 4.1 | Best for Trip Interruption | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | TripProtector Preferred | |||
Nationwide | 4.1 | Great for Cruise Itinerary Change/Inconvenience | Get A Quote | Via Forbes Advisor's Website | Cruise Choice |
How We Chose the Best Travel Insurance
BEST FOR NON-MEDICAL EVACUATION
Travel Insured International
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Worldwide Trip Protector
Average price
$370
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$100,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Worldwide Trip Protector
$370
$100,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
We recommend Travel Insured’s Worldwide Trip Protector policy because it offers robust benefits at the lowest average price among top-rated plans we analyzed. We also like its superior non-medical evacuation coverage.
- “Cancel for any reason” and “interruption for any reason” upgrades available.
- Top-notch non-medical evacuation benefits of $150,000 per person.
- Good travel delay and baggage delay benefits kick in after just a 3-hour delay.
More: Travel Insured International Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Medical coverage of $100,000 per person is on the low side compared to top competitors but might be enough for your needs.
- Missed connection benefits of $500 are low compared to top-rated competitors and for cruise and tours only.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Worldwide Trip Protector policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $100,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $150,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $1,500 per person |
Baggage delay | $500 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $1,000 per person |
Missed connection | $500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay for 6 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for one continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $10,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Pet kennel benefits of up to $500 are included if you return home three hours or more later than your planned return date.
Optional add-ons offered:
- Rental car damage and theft coverage of up to $50,000.
- Event ticket protection pays up to $1,000 if you can’t attend for a reason covered by the policy.
- Travel inconvenience coverage allows you to recoup money for unforeseen circ*mstances, such as closed beaches and attractions, rainy weather, tarmac delays and more.
- Bed rest benefits pay up to $4,000 if a doctor requires you to stay on bed rest for at least 48 hours during your trip.
GREAT FOR ADD-ON COVERAGE
WorldTrips
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Atlas Journey Premier
Average cost
$408
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$150,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Atlas Journey Premier
$408
$150,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
We like the Atlas Journey Premier plan for its wide choice of add-ons. These add-ons provide extra coverage for pets traveling with you, adventure sports, destination weddings, hunting and fishing equipment and more. We also like that this plan has a low average cost compared to competitors.
- “Cancel for any reason” and “interruption for any reason” upgrades available.
- Very good travel delay benefits of $2,000 per person after only 5 hours.
- Very good missed connection coverage of $2,000 per person after 3 hours.
Another option is the Atlas Journey Preferred plan, but this policy doesn’t offer the “interruption for any reason” upgrade and has lower travel medical benefits of $100,000 per person. Still, it hits all the marks for great benefits at a low price. It also offers lots of choices for add-on coverage.
More: WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Medical coverage limits of $150,000 aren’t as high compared to some top-rated competitors but you might find it’s sufficient.
- Baggage delay benefits have a 12-hour waiting period.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Atlas Journey Premier policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $150,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | Not included but upgrade available. |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $2,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $500 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,000 per person |
Missed connection | $2,000 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay for 12 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered after 30 day wait if employed for one continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $25,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Travel inconvenience benefits of $750 if your arrival home is delayed due to a transportation delay and you can’t work for at least two days, your flight lands at a different airport than scheduled, your passport is stolen and can’t be reissued, and more.
Optional add-ons offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” and “interruption for any reason” coverage.
- Destination wedding coverage in case the wedding is canceled.
- Baggage insurance upgrade to $4,000 per person.
- Rental car theft and damage coverage of $50,000.
- Political or security evacuation benefits of $150,000 per person.
- Vacation rental accommodations coverage of $500 if unclean or overbooked.
- Adventure sports add-on to extend coverage to safaris, bungee jumping and more.
- Hunting and fishing coverage for equipment and cancellation due to government restrictions.
- School activities coverage if trip has to be canceled due a test, sporting event, etc.
BEST FOR MISSED CONNECTIONS
TravelSafe
4.8
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Classic Plus Plan
Average cost
$431
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$100,000/$1 million
Get a Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Classic Plus Plan
$431
$100,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
TravelSafe’s Classic Plus plan stood out in our analysis for its superior missed connection benefits of $2,500. We also like the Classic Plus plan’s top-notch medical evacuation coverage of $1 million.
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available.
- Superior baggage loss coverage limits of $2,500.
- Great travel delay limits of $2,000 per person after a 6-hour delay.
More: TravelSafe Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- $100,000 in medical benefits is on the low side compared to top competitors but might be sufficient for your needs.
- Baggage delay coverage is a little skimpy at $250 per person after a 12-hour delay.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Classic Plus policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $100,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $25,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $2,000 per person, $150 daily limit, Covered after 6 hour delay |
Baggage delay | $250 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,500 per person |
Missed connection | $2,500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay of 12 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered after 14 day wait if employed for one continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $25,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Itinerary change coverage of $250 per person if your travel supplier makes a change that forces you to lose non-refundable costs for missed activities.
- Reimburses $300 for fees if you have to redeposit frequent traveler awards for reasons covered by your trip cancellation insurance.
- Pet kennel coverage of $100 a day if your return home is delayed by 24 hours or more due to a reason covered in your policy.
Optional add-ons offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage of 75% of lost trip costs.
- Accidental death and dismemberment for flights, up to $500,000 per person.
- Rental car damage and theft up to $35,000.
- Business equipment and sports equipment coverage of $1,000 if lost, stolen or damaged.
BEST FOR POLICY PERKS
Nationwide
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Cruise Luxury
Average cost
$485
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$150,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Cruise Luxury
$485
$150,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
Nationwide’s Cruise Luxury plan is one of our favorites because it has a treasure trove of benefits such as “interruption for any reason” and “cancel for work reasons” coverage. You can upgrade to “cancel for any reason” coverage. Some competitors offer none or one of those options. We also like its excellent missed connection benefit of $2,500 per person.
Note that you do not have to be going on a cruise to take advantage of this policy’s coverage.
- “Interruption for any reason” benefit of $1,000 per person is included.
- Includes $25,000 per person in non-medical evacuation benefits for problems such as a natural disaster or security or political problem.
- Good travel delay benefits of $1,000 per person.
More: Nationwide Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Medical coverage of $150,000 per person is lower than most other top-rated plans but might be sufficient for your needs.
- 24-hour delay required for hurricane and weather coverage, compared to some competitor policies with only a 12-hour delay requirement.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Cruise Luxury policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $150,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $25,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $1,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $1,000 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,500 per person |
Missed connection | $2,500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay for 24 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 3 continuous years |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $25,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Inconvenience benefit of $250 per person if your cruise ship’s arrival at the next port of call is delayed for two or more hours due to mechanical breakdown or fire.
- “Interruption for any reason” up to $1,000.
- Coverage for extension of the school year, terrorism in an itinerary city, work-related emergency issues.
- Coverage if the CDC issues a health warning at your destination.
Optional add-on offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade that provides 75% reimbursem*nt of insured trip cost if you cancel two or more days prior to your departure for a reason not listed in the base policy.
BEST FOR CUSTOMIZATION
AIG
4.3
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Travel Guard Deluxe
Average cost
$539
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$100,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Travel Guard Deluxe
$539
$100,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
The Travel Guard Deluxe plan impressed us with its optional pet, wedding, security, baggage, medical, adventures sports and travel inconvenience upgrades. These add-ons allow you to customize the policy to your needs. We also like that the policy includes benefits if, under certain conditions, you must start your trip earlier than planned—a feature not found in all policies.
- Offers upgrades to meet the needs and budgets of many kinds of travelers.
- Includes $100,000 per person for security evacuation and superior medical evacuation coverage of $1 million per person.
- Provides up to $750 per person for “travel inconveniences” such as a flight delay to your return destination, runway delays and cruise diversions.
- Has good travel delay coverage of $1,000 per person, with a short waiting period of 5 hours.
More: AIG Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- The Travel Guard Deluxe policy has robust coverage across the board but also a high average cost ($539) compared to other top-rated policies.
- Medical expense coverage of $100,000 per person is on the low side but might be adequate for your needs.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Travel Guard Deluxe policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $100,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $100,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of trip cost |
Travel delay | Covered after a 5 hour day |
Baggage delay | Covered after a 12 hour delay |
Baggage & personal items | $2,500 per person |
Missed connection | $1,000 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Included |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $30,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Travel inconvenience benefits of $750 total ($250 per problem) if you encounter issues such as closed attractions, cruise diversion, hotel infestation, hotel construction and more.
- Trip exchange benefits of 50% of your trip cost that pay the difference in price between your original reservation and the new one.
- Ancillary evacuation benefits up to $5,000 for expenses related to return of children, bedside visits, baggage return and more.
- Flight accidental death and dismemberment coverage of $100,000 per person.
Optional add-ons offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade.
- Rental vehicle damage coverage.
- “Name Your Family” upgrade allows you to add a person to your policy who will qualify for family member-related unforeseen events that can apply to claims for trip cancellation and interruption.
- Adventure Sports Bundle for adventure and extreme activities.
- Pet Bundle for boarding and medical expenses for illness or injury of dog or cat while traveling. Includes trip cancellation or trip interruption if your pet is in critical condition or dies within seven days before your departure.
- Wedding Bundle to cover trip cancellation due to wedding cancellation. Sorry cold-feeters: Coverage does not apply if you are the bride or groom.
The Travel Guard Preferred plan also earned 4.3 stars in our analysis. We recommend this policy if you’re looking for a lower price and don’t need the higher coverage amounts provided by the Deluxe plan. The Preferred plan provides $50,000 for medical expenses and $500,000 for medical evacuation benefits per person.
GREAT FOR MEDICAL & EVACUATION COVERAGE
Seven Corners
4.3
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Trip Protection Choice
Average cost
$527
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$500,000/$1 million
On Seven Corners' Secure Website
Trip Protection Choice
$527
$500,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
We like Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Choice plan because it has superior travel medical expenses and evacuation benefits. It also provides great upgrade options and benefits across the board.
- “Cancel for any reason” and “interruption for any reason” upgrade available.
- Very good travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person.
- Includes $20,000 for non-medical evacuation
More: Seven Corners Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Hurricane and weather coverage has a 48-hour delay, compared to some competitors that require only 12-hour delays.
- Average cost ($527) is only so-so compared to other top-rated policies we evaluated.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Trip Protection Choice policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $500,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $20,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | No coverage |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $2,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $500 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,500 per person |
Missed connection | $1,500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay of 48 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered after 30 day wait if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $20,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Accidental death and dismemberment coverage of $40,000 per person for qualifying common carrier events
- Change fee compensation of $300 per person if you have to change your flight or original travel arrangements due to qualifying events.
- Pet kennel benefits of $500 if your return home is delayed by six hours or more due to qualifying missed connection, interruption or delay problems.
- Frequent traveler coverage of $500 to pay for the cost to redeposit awards due to a trip cancellation caused by a reason listed in your policy.
Optional add-ons offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage.
- “Interruption for any reason” coverage.
- Rental car damage coverage of $35,000.
- Sports & golf equipment rental coverage up to $5,000.
- Event ticket fee registration coverage of $15,000 if you can’t attend an event due to unforeseen reasons listed in trip cancellation and interruption coverage.
BEST FOR BAGGAGE
AXA Assistance USA
4.2
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Platinum Plan
Average cost
$470
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$250,000/$1 million
Platinum Plan
$470
$250,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
AXA’s Platinum plan is among our favorites because it hits all the high points for coverage that you’ll want if you’re looking for top-notch protection, including excellent baggage benefits of $3,000 per person. Excellent medical and non-medical evacuation benefits are another reason we like the Platinum plan.
- Generous medical and evacuation limits, plus $100,000 per person in non-medical evacuation—among the highest for plans we analyzed.
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available.
- Coverage for lost ski days, lost golf rounds and sports equipment rental.
More: AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Travel delay and baggage coverage kicks in only after a 12-hour delay.
- The average cost for the Platinum plan is only so-so compared to other top-rated plans, although you do get robust coverage for the money.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Platinum policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $250,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $100,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $1,250 per person |
Baggage delay | $600 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $3,000 per person |
Missed connection | $1,500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay of 48 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $50,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Optional add-ons offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage
- Rental car damage coverage of $50,000.
- Lost ski days
- Lost golf rounds
GREAT FOR PRE-EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITION COVERAGE
Generali Global Assistance
4.2
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Premium
Average cost
$496
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$250,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Premium
$496
$250,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
Generali’s Premium policy stood out in our analysis for its generous window for pre-existing condition coverage. Travelers with pre-existing conditions can get coverage as long as you buy a Premium policy up to or within 24 hours of your final trip deposit. Competitors often have a deadline of 10 to 20 days after making your first trip deposit.
We also like the policy’s excellent trip interruption insurance and superior medical evacuation benefits of $1 million per person.
- Excellent trip interruption coverage of up to 175% of your trip costs.
- Very good baggage loss coverage at $2,000 per person.
More: Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- If you want “cancel for any reason” coverage you must buy it within 24 hours of making your initial trip deposit, compared to 10 to 20 days from top competitors.
- This plan’s “cancel for any reason” coverage will reimburse you for only 60% of lost trip costs; most competitors provide 75%.
- Baggage delay benefits kick in only after a 12-hour delay.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Premium policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $250,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | No coverage |
Cancel for work reasons | No coverage |
Trip interruption | 175% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $1,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $500 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,000 per person |
Missed connection | $1,000 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay for any length of time |
Employment layoff | Covered after 14 day wait if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $50,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Rental car coverage for theft and damage of $25,000.
- Sporting equipment coverage of $2,000.
- Sporting equipment delay coverage of $500.
Optional add-on offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade that reimburses you 60% of your insured trip cost if you cancel at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Travelex Insurance Services
4.2
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Travel Select
Average cost
$391
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$50,000/$500,000
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Travel Select
$391
$50,000/$500,000
Our Expert Take
We recommend Travelex’s Travel Select plan for families because it provides coverage for children at no extra cost (when accompanied by an adult covered by the policy). Its average price is also among the lowest among the companies we evaluated, making it an option to take a look at
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available.
- Very good travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person after a 5-hour delay.
More: Travelex Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Medical coverage of $50,000 per person is on the low side, but you can buy an upgrade to double it.
- Baggage delay coverage requires a 12-hour delay and has a low $200 per person limit.
- Missed connection benefits of $750 per person are lower than many other competitors.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Travel Select policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $50,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $500,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | No coverage |
Cancel for work reasons | Covered if purchased within 15 days of trip deposit |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $2,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $200 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $1,000 per person |
Missed connection | $750 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay for any length of time |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $25,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Sporting and golf equipment delay benefits of $200 after 24 hours or more.
Optional add-ons & upgrades offered:
- Medical coverage upgrade to $100,000 per person.
- Medical evacuation upgrade to $1 million per person.
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage of 75% (up to max of $7,500).
- Accidental death and dismemberment coverage of $200,000 per person for flights.
- Financial default coverage if your travel supplier goes out of business that provides 100% reimbursem*nt of your insured trip cost.
- Car rental collision coverage of $35,000.
- Adventure sports upgrade to cover activities that would otherwise be excluded.
BEST FOR TRIP INTERRUPTION
HTH Worldwide
4.1
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
TripProtector Preferred Plan
Average cost
$602
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$500,000/$1 million
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
TripProtector Preferred Plan
$602
$500,000/$1 million
Our Expert Take
We were impressed by TripProtector Preferred’s superior trip interruption benefits—200% of the trip cost. Most competitors provide 150%. Luxury-level benefits are another reason we recommend the TripProtector Preferred plan.
- Top-notch coverage limits for medical expenses and evacuation.
- Coverage for adventure sports—such as zip-lining, snowmobiling, whitewater rafting, and more—are included.
- Very good travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person after a 6-hour delay.
More: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Higher average price ($602) compared to most companies we evaluated, but you’re buying robust benefits.
- Baggage delay coverage requires a 12-hour delay.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the TripProtector Preferred policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $500,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $1,000,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | No coverage |
Cancel for work reasons | No coverage |
Trip interruption | 200% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $2,000 per person |
Baggage delay | $400 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,000 per person |
Missed connection | $1,000 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay of 6 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 1 continuous year |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $50,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- Pet medical expense coverage of $250 if your dog or cat traveling with you gets injured or sick during your trip.
- Rental car coverage of $35,000 for damage and theft.
Optional add-on offered:
- “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available that provides 75% reimbursem*nt of trip costs if you cancel at least two days prior to your scheduled departure.
GREAT FOR CRUISE ITINERARY CHANGE/INCONVENIENCE
Nationwide
4.1
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Top-scoring plan
Cruise Choice
Average cost
$407
Medical & evacuation limits per person
$100,000/$500,000
Get A Quote
Via Forbes Advisor's Website
Cruise Choice
$407
$100,000/$500,000
Our Expert Take
The Cruise Choice plan gets our attention for its compensation if you miss activities because your cruise ship changes its itinerary and for the inconvenience of delays to the next port of call. The Cruise Choice plan’s competitive price is another reason we recommend taking a look.
- Includes ”interruption for any reason” coverage of $500 if you buy policy within 14 days of trip deposit.
- Includes $25,000 per person in non-medical evacuation benefits.
- Provides benefits if your cruise ship has a fire or mechanical breakdown that delays arrival at the next port of call for two or more hours.
More: Nationwide Travel Insurance Review
Drawbacks
- Medical coverage of $100,000 per person is lower than most other top-rated plans but might be sufficient for your needs.
- 24-hour delay required for hurricane and weather coverage, compared to many competitors with shorter required times.
- “Cancel for any reason” coverage not available.
Plan Details
Here’s a look at whether top coverage types are included in the Cruise Choice policy.
Coverage type | Coverage limit |
---|---|
Emergency medical | $100,000 per person |
Medical evacuation & repatriation | $500,000 per person |
Non-medical evacuation | $25,000 per person |
Cancel for work reasons | Included |
Trip interruption | 150% of the trip cost |
Travel delay | $750 per person |
Baggage delay | $500 per person |
Baggage & personal items | $2,500 per person |
Missed connection | $1,500 per person |
Hurricane & weather | Covered after a common carrier delay of 24 hours |
Employment layoff | Covered if employed for 3 continuous years |
Accidental death & dismemberment | $25,000 per person |
We’re showing top coverage types but other benefits are also included in this plan. Check the policy for more details.
Also included:
- “Interruption for any reason” coverage.
- Shipboard service disruption of $200 per person if your cruise ship has a fire or mechanical breakdown that delays the next port of call for 2 or more hours or changes the scheduled itinerary.
- Coverage for an extended school year, terrorism in an itinerary city and work-related emergency issues.
Best for Travel Medical Coverage
These policies offer the highest level of medical coverage among the plans that we judged to be the best.
Company | Policy name | Medical coverage included |
---|---|---|
HTH Travel Insurance | TripProtector Preferred | $500,000 per person |
Seven Corners | Trip Protection Choice | $500,000 per person |
USI Affinity | Diamond | $500,000 per person |
Primary coverage indicates that you can make a claim against this policy first, rather than first making a claim on your own health plan.
Best for Medical Evacuation Coverage
These policies offer the highest level of emergency medical coverage among the plans in our top picks.
Company | Policy name | Medical evacuation coverage included |
---|---|---|
AIG | Travel Guard Deluxe | $1,000,000 per person |
AXA Assistance USA | Platinum | $1,000,000 per person |
Generali Global Assistance | Premium | $1,000,000 per person |
HTH Travel Insurance | TripProtector Preferred | $1,000,000 per person |
Nationwide | Cruise Luxury | $1,000,000 per person |
Seven Corners | Trip Protection Choice | $1,000,000 per person |
Travel Insured International | Worldwide Trip Protector | $1,000,000 per person |
TravelSafe | Classic Plus | $1,000,000 per person |
Trawick International | Safe Travels First Class | $1,000,000 per person |
USI Affinity | Diamond | $1,000,000 per person |
WorldTrips | Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier | $1,000,000 per person |
Best for Travel Delays
These policies offer the highest maximum coverage limits for travel delays among the plans that we judged to be the best.
Company | Policy name | Travel delay coverage included |
---|---|---|
TravelSafe | Classic Plus | $2,000 per person |
Seven Corners | Trip Protection Choice | $2,000 per person |
Travelex | Travel Select | $2,000 per person |
HTH Travel Insurance | TripProtector Preferred | $2,000 per person |
WorldTrips | Atlas Journey Premier and Atlas Journey Preferred | $2,000 per person |
Best for Baggage Delays
Nationwide’s Cruise Luxury policy offers the highest maximum coverage for delayed baggage among the plans that were our top picks.
Company | Policy name | Baggage delay coverage included |
---|---|---|
Nationwide | Cruise Luxury | $1,000 per person |
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
Comprehensive travel insurance policies package together a number of valuable benefits. You can also buy policies that cover only trip cancellation or only medical expenses. With the wide variety of travel insurance plans available, you can find coverage levels that will fit your budget and trip needs.
Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you 100% for money you lose in prepaid, non-refundable deposits if you have to cancel for a reason listed in the policy. Common reasons include unexpected illness, injury and family member sickness. | |
Travel medical insurance pays for ambulance service, X-rays, lab work, medicine, doctor and hospital bills, and other medical expenses during your trip, up to policy limits. This is important coverage for travelers going abroad, where your U.S. health plan may have limited global coverage or no coverage. | |
Emergency medical evacuation insurance pays up to the policy limits to get you to the nearest adequate medical facility. | |
Travel delay insurance compensates you for expenses for things like meals and lodging if you’re stuck somewhere due to a delay that’s covered by your travel insurance plan. Specified waiting period before benefits apply—for example, six or 12 hours—and also a per day maximum limit and a total maximum per person. | |
If you have to cut your trip short because of a reason listed in the policy, trip interruption insurance reimburses you for the non-refundable parts of your trip that you miss. It can also pay for a last-minute one-way ticket home if you have an emergency. | |
Baggage insurance reimburses you for lost, stolen or damaged belongings. But note that reimbursem*nt is for the depreciated value of your items, not the cost to buy new ones. Also, you may have to first make a claim on home or renters insurance. And baggage delay insurance lets you recoup expenses for necessities, such as clothes and toiletries, while you wait for your luggage. Policies usually require a certain time delay before baggage delay coverage kicks in, such as six hours. | |
“Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) travel insurance is optional coverage that allows you to cancel your trip for any reason that’s not listed in your base policy and be partially reimbursed for non-refundable trip costs. You generally must cancel at least 48 hours before your departure time. Reimbursem*nt under a CFAR claim is usually 75% or 50% of your trip costs. CFAR adds an average of about 50% to an insurance plan’s cost. | |
“Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) travel insurance is an optional upgrade that permits you to cut short a trip for any reason and get up to 75% reimbursem*nt for the non-refundable money you lose. You usually must be at least 48 hours into your trip to file a claim. It typically adds 3% to 10% to your travel insurance cost. | |
is included in some policies. If an accident that’s covered by the policy kills or dismembers the policyholder during the trip, travel accident insurance pays out the specified amount. It usually pays out a percentage of the maximum benefit, depending on the loss. |
What’s Not Covered by Travel Insurance?
Problems not covered by travel insurance tend to be similar among policies. We recommend that you read a policy’s exclusions so you’re not caught by surprise later if you try to make a claim. Typical exclusions include:
- Injuries from high-risk activities such as scuba diving.
- Problems that happen because you were drunk or using drugs.
- Medical tourism such as going abroad for a face lift or other elective procedure.
- Lost or stolen cash.
Case Study: Food Poisoning in London
I was excited to try a highly regarded restaurant while visiting London, but shortly after lunch, I experienced severe nausea and symptoms suggesting food poisoning. It got worse so quickly that I had to rush to the emergency room for medicine and IV fluids. Thankfully, my travel insurance came through. It covered 100% of the $822 in hospital charges and medication costs. The claim process was surprisingly smooth—I just submitted my records and receipts online. This experience made me realize just how essential travel insurance is! -Katy D., New York |
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?
The average cost of travel insurance is 6% of your trip cost, based on our analysis. The cost of travel insurance is usually mainly based on the age of travelers and the trip cost being insured.
Trip cost | Average travel insurance cost | Travel insurance cost as % of insured trip cost |
---|---|---|
$1,000 | $61 | 6% |
$2,500 | $120 | 5% |
$5,000 | $228 | 5% |
$10,000 | $512 | 5% |
$20,000 | $1,204 | 6% |
$30,000 | $1,848 | 6% |
$50,000 | $3,091 | 6% |
Compare & Buy Travel Insurance
What Affects Travel Insurance Costs?
Unlike many other types of insurance, there are usually only a few factors that go into travel insurance pricing.
Trip cost being insured. The more trip costs you insure, the higher your travel insurance cost. Your trip cost includes any prepaid, non-refundable expenses, such as airfare, hotel accommodations, tours, event tickets, excursions and theme park passes. | |
Age. Your age is also taken into account in travel insurance pricing. That’s because older travelers tend to make more claims, such as medical claims. | |
Coverage. The more protection you buy, the more you’ll pay. For instance, if you opt for a “cancel for any reason” upgrade and generous travel medical expense coverage, you’ll pay more. |
How to Get Travel Insurance
You can buy travel insurance from a travel agent, website or a travel supplier like an airline or cruise company. We’ve bought travel insurance online and it’s relatively easy. In our experience you can purchase a policy online within a few minutes.
Start by estimating your non-refundable trip cost | If you’re unsure of your trip cost, you can estimate the amount, and then update it later with the travel insurance company, as long as it’s before your departure date. Some add-on benefits require you to insure 100% of your non-refundable trip costs for you to be eligible to file a claim, such as a “cancel for any reason” claim. |
Get quotes online or through a travel insurance agent | To get a quote, you typically need the following information: • Traveler ages • Destination • Trip cost • Travel dates • State of residence |
Assess policy options and prices | You’ll usually be presented with a selection of policies at different price points, with the more expensive ones usually providing higher coverage levels. Once you select a policy, you can buy it online. |
Review the policy | You usually have two weeks or so to review the policy. If you change your mind, you can get a refund, as long as it’s during the specified review period. |
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Here are some reasons you may need travel insurance.
You’re Traveling Overseas and Your Health Plan Doesn’t Have Global Coverage
Many health plans lack robust global coverage, or impose high out-of-network deductibles for care outside the U.S. We suggest that you check your health plan details to see what it provides outside the U.S. Travel medical insurance fills the gap.
You’re Going to a Remote Area
If you won’t be near any quality medical facilities, even a small injury could turn into a major medical event. Medical evacuation coverage will pay to medevac you to an adequate facility.
You’re Traveling to a Hurricane-Prone Destination
If you’re concerned about hurricanes or other severe weather affecting your travel plans, you’ll want to make sure to buy a travel insurance policy that has trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance for hurricanes and other weather events.
If your trip is interrupted or canceled due to severe weather, you can file a claim and be reimbursed 100% for prepaid, non-refundable deposits.
To be eligible to file a travel insurance claim because of a storm, you must have bought your policy before the storm was named. Also, generally one of the following requirements must be met:
- Your destination is under a hurricane warning.
- Your destination is uninhabitable due to severe weather.
- Your (common carrier) airline is delayed for a specified amount of time listed in your policy—for example, six hours.
You Want Emergency Backup
The 24/7 travel assistance lines that are included with travel insurance can assist you with finding a pharmacy, language translation, replacing a lost passport and much more.
You Will Lose a Lot of Money in Non-Refundable Deposits if You Cancel the Trip
You want trip cancellation coverage you’re worried about the money you will lose if you have to cancel the trip.
Trip cancellation will cover 100% of the prepaid money you’ll lose, as long as you cancel for a reason listed in the policy. Problems typically covered for trip cancellation insurance claims include sickness, injury, severe weather, natural disasters, jury duty and more.
Expert Round-Up: How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance Policy
Here is our top advice on key considerations for choosing the best travel insurance policy.
Expert Round-Up: How to Choose the Best Health Insurance for You | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Michelle Megna Forbes Advisor Editor | I strongly recommend buying travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. That way you get the maximum length of coverage for trip cancellation benefits. I don’t think many people realize that buying a policy shortly after you make your first deposit also makes you eligible to buy upgrades, such as “cancel for any reason” coverage, and to get other time-sensitive benefits, such as a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver. | |||
Amy Danise Forbes Advisor Editor | If you’re traveling outside of the U.S., I would make sure you buy a policy with ample travel medical and emergency medical evacuation insurance. It’s important because you may have little to no coverage under your U.S. health plan. Look for a policy where the medical insurance is primary, meaning the policy will pay out first, before any other health insurance you have. | |||
Jason Metz Forbes Advisor Editor | If you’re flying to your destination, your itinerary could be derailed by weather, airplane mechanical issues or missed connections. If you’re worried about paying extra money due to a delay or missed connections, I recommend that you look for a policy that has a generous amount of travel delay and missed connection insurance. | |||
Les Masterson Forbes Advisor Editor | If you plan to participate in extreme sports or adventure excursions, I suggest buying a plan that specifically covers these activities, as they’re often excluded. A travel insurance agent can help you pinpoint a policy that will cover your particular adventures. | |||
Ashlee Valentine Forbes Advisor Editor | I like the idea of “cancel for any reason” travel insurance because you never know what life will bring, and unfortunately it might bring a reason to cancel a trip that’s not covered by the base policy. Having CFAR coverage ensures you can get partial reimbursem*nt for any oddball problems that crop up. |
Top Travel Destinations in April 2024
Americans are ready to take trips abroad in April: 88% of travel insurance purchases for trips taking place from February 1 to 29, 2024, are for international trips, based on Forbes Advisor’s analysis of policy sales.
Mexico is the top international destination for trips this month, followed by Costa Rica and the Bahamas. In addition:
- The average trip cost being insured for people traveling outside the U.S. in February is $7,359.
- The average trip cost being insured for folks traveling within the U.S. this month is $3,545.
- Americans traveling internationally are paying an average of $343 for their travel insurance policies for February trips and domestic travelers are paying an average of $201.
Where Are People Headed This Month?
List of April 2024 Top Travel Destinations
Average Trip Cost for Popular Destinations
Spending on trips in March to five frequently visited countries is up significantly compared to February, based on our analysis. Italy and Mexico trip costs in March are the highest they’ve been in the past 14 months.
Here’s how much more travelers are spending on trips in March compared to February for the following destinations, on average. Numbers reflect the average of non-refundable trip costs being insured.
- Italy. $6,690 more
- France. $3,970 more
- Great Britain. $665 more
- Japan. $2,885 more
- Mexico. $5,040 more
Methodology
Forbes Advisor researched and analyzed 39 policies to find the best travel insurance. When companies had more than one travel insurance policy we used the highest-scoring plan. Ratings are based on the following metrics.
Cost (25% of score): We analyzed the average cost for each travel insurance policy for trips to popular destinations:
- Couple, age 30 for a Mexico trip costing $3,000.
- Couple, age 40, for an Italy trip costing $6,000.
- Family of four for an Italy trip costing $15,000.
- Family of four for a France trip costing $15,000.
- Family of four for a U.K. trip costing $15,000.
- Couple, age 65, for an Italy trip costing $6,000.
- Couple, age 70, for a Mexico trip costing $3,000.
Missed connection coverage (10% of score): Travel insurance policies were awarded more points if they include missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more.
Medical expenses (10% of score): Travel insurance policies with travel medical expense benefits of $250,000 and up per person were given the highest points.
Medical evacuation (10% of score): Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 and up per person were given the highest points.
“Cancel for any reason” upgrade (10%): Travel insurance policies received points if “cancel for any reason” upgrades are offered. More points were awarded for “cancel for any reason” upgrades with reimbursem*nt levels of 75%.
Baggage delay required waiting time (5%): Policies with baggage delay benefits kicking in at 12 hours or less were given points.
Cancel for work reasons (5%): Travel insurance plans that allow cancellations for work reasons were awarded points.
Hurricane and weather (5%): Policies received points if the required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage was 12 hours or less.
“Interruption for any reason” upgrade (5%): Policies were awarded points if they offered an “interruption for any reason” upgrade.
Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver (5%): Points were given to policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions (if purchased within a required timeframe after the first trip deposit).
Travel delay required waiting time (5%): Policies with travel delay benefits kicking in after six hours or less were given points.
Trip interruption travel insurance (5%): Points were given if trip interruption reimbursem*nt is 150% or higher.
Other Travel Insurance Policies We Rated
While these policies were not among our winners, they may still be good options based on your travel needs. Many of these plans have lower coverage limits, which may be suitable depending on your trip.
Company | Policy name | Forbes Advisor rating |
---|---|---|
Nationwide | Prime | 3.7 stars |
USI Affinity | Ruby | 3.7 stars |
John Hanco*ck Insurance Agency | Gold | 3.6 stars |
USI Affinity | Diamond | 3.6 stars |
Aegis (formerly GoReady) | Go Ready Choice | 3.5 stars |
IMG | iTravelInsured Travel SE | 3.2 stars |
John Hanco*ck Insurance Agency | Silver | 3.2 stars |
Trawick International | Safe Travels First Class | 3.2 stars |
Tin Leg | Gold | 3.0 stars |
HTH Travel Insurance | TripProtector Classic | 2.7 stars |
Seven Corners | Trip Protection Basic | 2.7 stars |
Arch RoamRight | Pro Plus | 2.6 stars |
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection | ExactCare | 2.6 stars |
Aegis (formerly GoReady) | Go Ready Pandemic Plus | 2.5 stars |
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection | LuxuryCare | 2.5 stars |
AXA Assistance USA | Gold | 2.0 stars |
IMG | iTravelInsured Travel LX Basic | 2.0 stars |
Generali Global Assistance | Preferred | 1.6 stars |
Nationwide | Cruise Universal | 1.6 stars |
Tin Leg | Luxury | 1.5 stars |
IMG | iTravelInsured Travel Lite | 1.4 stars |
Arch RoamRight | Pro | 1.3 stars |
Generali Global Assistance | Standard | 1.2 stars |
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection | ExactCare Value | 1.1 stars |
AXA Assistance USA | Silver | 1.0 stars |
HTH Travel Insurance | TripProtector Economy | 1.0 stars |
Best Travel Insurance Companies Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a type of policy that reimburses you for money you lose from non-refundable deposits and payments when something goes wrong on your trip. These problems can range from lost baggage to flight delays to medical problems.
The more you’re spending on your trip, the more you likely need travel insurance. This is especially true for international trips and cruises, where travel problems become more expensive to solve.
What do I need for travel insurance?
The information you need to buy travel insurance includes an estimate of your prepaid, non-refundable trip cost, your age, your destination, length of trip and age. Buying travel insurance online is relatively easy. You don’t have to answer a lot of questions, and you can update your trip cost and itinerary later if plans change, as long as you do so before your departure.
Is there travel insurance for multiple trips?
While standard travel insurance plans are meant to cover one-time trips, frequent travelers should consider an annual travel insurance plan. These plans cover the same issues as a single-trip plan, such as trip cancellation and emergency medical situations. But they also offer the convenience of a one-time purchase for multiple trips.
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