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Blue Cross Travel Insurance Review 2024

Updated: Jan 8, 2024, 12:49pm

Blue Cross may be a household name when it comes to extended health insurance and group plans, but the company has been offering travel insurance for almost 50 years. A huge plus to a Blue Cross policy is the ability to pick and choose your coverage options to suit your travel needs and budget. There’s no mandatory medical questionnaire, and there’s included flight delay coverage for all plans. While some payout limits are lower than other plans, this is still solid coverage for a good price.

• Customizable coverage options
• Flight delay coverage for all plans
• No mandatory medical questionnaire
• Optional pandemic coverage
• No online quote available for ages 75 and over
• No cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage
• No coverage for higher-risk sports or adventure travel
• Some lower payouts than other plans

Table of Contents

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Blue Cross began in 1929 as a way to make healthcare more accessible for patients at Baylor University hospital in Texas. Subscribers paid $0.50 a month for up to 21 days of hospitalization per year. Buoyed by the company’s success in the U.S., Manitoba became the first province in Canada to establish a Blue Cross prepaid health care plan in 1938 in response to government funding shortfalls for hospitals after the Great Depression. Ontario followed suit in 1941.

Today, Blue Cross provides group health coverage, as well as travel and life insurance through seven regional not-for-profit service organizations. These member groups include: Alberta Blue Cross (serving Alberta and Northwest Territories), Manitoba Blue Cross (serving Manitoba and Nunavut), Medavie Blue Cross (serving New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and PEI), Ontario Blue Cross, Pacific Blue Cross (serving British Columbia and the Yukon), Quebec Blue Cross and Saskatchewan Blue Cross. Blue Cross is part of a larger global network, including the American Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

Blue Cross launched its first travel insurance policy in Canada in 1977.

Blue Cross travel insurance is underwritten by Canassurance Hospital Service Association (CHSA) or Canassurance Insurance Company.

This review is based on plans from Ontario Blue Cross. If you live elsewhere in Canada, your plan offerings may differ.

Here are the key types of travel insurance coverage offered in Blue Cross travel insurance plans:

• Emergency medical insurance: If you get ill or are injured on your trip, travel medical insurance can pay for emergency medical expenses, up to the coverage limits in your plan. These expenses can include doctor and hospital bills, medication and lab work.
• Trip cancellation insurance: If you cancel a trip for a reason listed in your travel policy, such as you or your travelling companion becoming ill, weather conditions causing a massive delay or you end up losing your job, trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable costs.
• Travel interruption or delay insurance: Trip interruption insurance can pay for a last-minute flight home in an emergency and money that you lose if you have to return home earlier than expected, such as non-refundable activities and hotel stays. If your flight is delayed , your insurance can cover the cost of incidentals, such as meals or accommodations, after a specified period of time, usually six, 10 or 12 hours.
• Baggage insurance: Baggage travel insurance can compensate you up to your policy limits if your luggage is lost or stolen. It will reimburse the depreciated value of your suitcases and what you packed. If your checked bags are delayed, it can reimburse you for the cost of the necessities you’ll have to buy to tide you over.
• Travel accident insurance: This coverage offers compensation in the event of accidental death or catastrophic injury from an accident during your trip. Flight Accident Insurance covers injury while you’re on a commercial plane, during a connection or in an airport. Travel Accident Insurance covers death or dismemberment, including the loss of limbs or eyesight, while on your trip.

Blue Cross allows you to customize and combine the amount of coverage you need. You can either choose the all inclusive plan or pick individual coverage options à la carte. So, for example, you could choose emergency medical coverage and baggage coverage, or trip cancellation/interruption coverage and baggage coverage.

Package Plus: This option is a combination of the most popular coverage options and includes at least one of emergency medical care and/or trip cancellation or interruption, along with accidental death or dismemberment, and baggage coverage.

Coverage for emergency medical treatment includes:

• Hospital accommodation in a semi-private or private room
• Physician fees
• Private duty nursing
• Paramedical services, such as care from a physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath or podiatrist/chiropodist (combined), up to $400 per profession
• Urgent dermatological care, up to $400 per trip
• Tests and diagnostics
• Prescription medication as part of emergency treatment
• The cost of buying or renting crunches, canes or splints, the cost of renting a wheelchair, orthopaedic devices or other medical devices
• Incidental expenses when hospitalized, such as telephone, TV, parking, etc., up to $100 per day, maximum $500 per hospitalization
• Emergency dental due to a blow to the face, up to $2,000 per accident
• Emergency dental due to pain or disease, up to $500 per trip
• Ground or air ambulance transportation

Medical coverage also covers the cost to return home if medically necessary (and includes a travelling companion or family member), as well as baggage return and pet return. If your return home is delayed due to a medical emergency, this benefit covers meals and accommodations.

Emergency Medical: If you’re only worried about medical emergencies while travelling, this benefit offers all of the medical coverage listed above.

Trip Cancellation or Interruption: This coverage option reimburses you for insured travel expenses (such as hotels or prepaid excursions) if you have to cancel, interrupt, extend or modify your trip due to a covered reason. With this coverage, you can also choose not to insure your trip, but opt in for additional trip coverage. This includes transportation expenses if you have to interrupt, modify or extend your trip, as well as a subsistence allowance for hotels and meals if your return home is delayed.

Accidental Death or Dismemberment: This coverage option offers reimbursement in the event you die, or lose the use of one or more limbs during a travel accident. The amount paid out depends on your age and the severity of the accident.

Baggage Coverage: This insures you if your baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, or lost, stolen or damaged during your trip.

Flight Delay Service: This service is available at no extra cost to anyone with Blue Cross travel insurance, even if you don’t have trip cancellation or trip interruption coverage.

If your flight is delayed, you automatically receive the following benefits:

• Three hour or more delay: Access to an airport lounge. If a lounge is not available, you’ll receive $40 for each person named on the insurance contract.
• Six hour or more delay: One hotel room (per policy) plus $50 per person, up to a maximum of $200. If no hotel room is available, you’ll receive $250.

Once registered for the service, the Blue Cross system tracks your flight in real time. If it’s delayed, you’ll receive a text message or email telling you how to access your benefits. Your hotel room, if required, will be booked for you and there is no need to submit a claim later.

We’ve highlighted the key benefits for each coverage option available for the single trip plan when travelling outside of Canada to help you identify which is the best fit for you. One of medical or trip cancellation/interruption coverage is mandatory, but accidental death or dismemberment and baggage are optional.

The price of a Blue Cross travel insurance plan depends on factors such as the cost of your trip, your age and the amount of coverage you choose.

Here are some examples of the cost for Blue Cross single trip plans for healthy travellers based in Ontario. These quotes do not include the optional protection for pandemic related costs.

These quotes do not include baggage coverage, except for the all inclusive plan option.

Using the example of the Mexico trip, baggage can be added to the medical only plan for $19.96 (making the plan total $74.22) and to the Trip Cancellation and Interruption only plan for $19.96 (for a plan total of $142.12)

With your emergency medical coverage, you can also add an optional deductible, or the amount you will pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in, of $250, $500, $1,500, $2,500 or $5,000.

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: Yes, 50% to 75% Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: CAA Travel Insurance Review

TD Insurance

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,000

Related: TD Insurance Travel Insurance Review

Johnson Medoc Travel Insurance

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: Johnson Medoc Travel Insurance Review

Blue Cross offers an Optional Protection: Pandemic add-on that reimburses travel expenses normally excluded under the Trip Cancellation or Interruption Coverage. This add-on must be purchased with trip cancellation and interruption coverage and within five days of the first trip deposit or at least 45 days prior to the departure date.

The benefit is dependent on whether or not there is a Canadian government travel advisory in effect or not on the date the coverage takes effect.

If a travel advisory is in effect, then the pandemic is known and foreseeable, and reimbursement will only be paid due to a travel delay.

In general, when the return date must be delayed due to a diagnosis, positive screen test or contact tracing in relation to a pandemic, benefits include:

• A maximum of $250 per day per insured person, up to $2,500, for hotel and meals (trip maximum of $5,000)
• A maximum of of $500 per insured person for changing the date or replacing your ticket on your return flight (trip maximum $1,000)

If there is no travel advisory in effect, then the pandemic is unforeseeable, and the trip cancellation and coverage applies to the full extent, per the policy wording. In other words, in this case a pandemic is not considered a reason for exclusion.

Here’s how the costs compare for single trip insurance with and without the optional pandemic coverage

Blue Cross offers a preferred rates discount for snowbirds aged 55 and above travelling more than 32 days, as well as a $25 travelling companion discount and a $15 grandchildren discount.

Yes. You can buy multi-trip annual insurance if you travel more than once a year for multiple individual trips. Blue Cross offers medical only coverage, trip coverage and all inclusive coverage for four, eight, 17, 31, 60, 90, 150 or 180 days per trip.

Here’s how the prices between single trip and multi-trip insurance compare for the all inclusive and medical only plans:

Blue Cross Travel Assistance is included with all travel insurance products and is available 24/7, 365 days of the year either before or during your trip. Depending on the coverage provided by your insurance policy, emergency support includes:

• Referral to an appropriate medical facility
• Confirming medical insurance coverage to facilitate your care at the clinic or hospital
• Communicating with the physician treating you
• Coordinating repatriation when medically necessary
• Coordinating the safe return home of your dependent children if you are hospitalized
• Coordinating travel for a bedside family member if you are hospitalized for at least three days
• Coordinating the return of your vehicle if you can not due to an accident or illness
• Interpreter services for emergency calls
• Coordinating claims and payment to hospital/clinic, if applicable
• Assistance in the event of loss or theft of identification documents
• Providing information on embassies and consulates
• Referral to a lawyer in the event of a serious accident
• Settling of formalities in the event of death and repatriation of remains

When calling Blue Cross Travel Assistance, you’ll need your insurance contract number and your provincial health insurance number.

If you (or someone calling on your behalf) do not contact Blue Cross Travel Assistance before receiving medical treatment, your claim may be denied. A relative or medical staff member must contact Travel Assistance within 24 hours of starting medical treatment. It’s important to remember that certain services, such as paramedical treatment, must be approved in advance. If you need to cancel or modify your trip and you have trip cancellation and interruption coverage, you must notify Blue Cross within 48 hours of becoming aware of an event that triggers a change.

Blue Cross will not pay any medical expenses related to any medical condition that is not stable for a set period of time, either three or six months (depending on your age), before your coverage takes effect.

A medical condition is considered stable when all of the following are true:

• No new medical diagnosis has been made
• No new symptoms appears and there was no worsening or increase in the frequency of existing symptoms
• No hospitalization has taken place
• No new medication was prescribed or recommended
• No change of dosage was made to a medication already prescribed or recommended (with some exceptions)
• No new treatment or medical test is pending or has been prescribed, ongoing or recommended
• No ongoing treatment has been changed or discontinued
• No prescribed or recommended treatment, no medical advice has been ignored

In addition, Blue Cross has a number of age- and condition-specific exclusions, including:

For policyholders aged 54 and under during the three months preceding the effective date of coverage or for policyholders aged 55 to 75 travelling less than 32 days during the six months preceding the effective date of coverage:

• Any heart condition for while you have used nitroglycerine more than once in a seven-day period for the relief of chest pain
• Any pulmonary condition for which you have been treated with home oxygen or have required corticosteroid therapy

For policyholders aged 55 to 75 who are travelling 32 days or more and for people aged 76 or over, the following medical conditions are excluded unless the insurance certificate stipulates otherwise:

• During your lifetime, any illness which relates to a cardiovascular condition, kidney failure or a major organ transplant, including bone marrow, liver, lung, heart and pancreas
• During the 24 months before the effective date of coverage, any chronic pulmonary condition for which you have been hospitalized or have used cortisone tablets
• During the 12 months preceding the effective date of coverage, any illness which relates to the following conditions for which you have been diagnosed or treated: Cancer and gastrointestinal conditions, such as hepatitis C or Crohn’s disease

Travellers over age 54 who are travelling for longer than 31 days and travellers aged 76 and older can have their physician complete an optional medical questionnaire that is then submitted to Blue Cross for evaluation. The Blue Cross medical team can then decide if your pre-existing or chronic condition is approved for coverage or not.

There are a number of scenarios not covered by travel insurance and it’s critical to know what not to do before you make a claim. The following are some of the most common situations not covered by travel insurance:

• Treatment received without approval from Blue Cross Travel Assistance if the medical need was not urgent or if sufficient attempts were not made to receive prior approval
• Foreseeable treatment for a known medical condition
• Failure to comply with a prescribed treatment
• Non-urgent, experimental or optional treatment, such as routine checkups, aesthetic care, rehabilitation, convalescent care, clinical research or experimental drugs
• Continued treatment once the medical emergency is over
• Continued treatment if you refuse repatriation
• Unreasonable billing, namely any invoiced amount not considered a “customary and reasonable expense”
• A child born during the trip
• Mental health disorders
• Suicide and intentional injury
• Use of alcohol, drugs and other intoxicants
• Any illegal or criminal act
• Acts of war and civil unrest
• High-risk sports or activities, including extreme sports, motor sports, sports practiced as a paid professional, high-level sports competitions, aerial sports, combat sports, sports authorizing tackling or body checking, high-risk water sports and high-risk mountain or climbing sports
• Loss or damage of certain items such as a vehicle, personal items such as prosthetics or glasses, cash, tickets or documents, antiques or collectibles, food or animals or breakage of fragile items

To be eligible for insurance with Blue Cross, the following must apply:

• You are a resident of Canada and are covered under a government health insurance plan
• You are over 30-days old on the departure date of your trip

In addition, for travellers aged 55 and over, you must not:

• Have received medical advice not to travel
• Suffer from a medical condition in a terminal stage
• Suffer from kidney failure treated with dialysis
• Have been diagnosed with or treated for metastatic cancer in the last five years
• Have been prescribed or treated with home oxygen in the past 12 months

You can file a claim online 24/7 by visiting the Blue Cross secure electronic document filing website where you can start a new claim, submit your required documentation and follow the progress of your claim. The website currently notes that processing your claim could take up to 30 days.

In addition to your claim form you may be asked to provide:

• A medical certificate issued by the physician who treated you that confirms you received treatment and/or a medical emergency occurred either during or before your trip
• Receipts and proof of payment for the medical care and services provided or related travel expenses
• Itemized billing for the care and services provided
• Proof of your travel dates
• A supporting document, such as a police report or letter from the airline, confirming that a serious, unforeseen and non-excluded event is the cause of your claim
• Unused transportation tickets, official receipts from new return transportation or proof of reimbursement or credit.

You must submit the completed claim form within 90 days of the event, including all supporting documentation and itemized receipts.

Blue Cross Travel Insurance FAQs

Does blue cross pay for medical costs upfront.

According to the company, Blue Cross Travel Assistance is part of a worldwide assistance network that includes hospitals, clinics, medical escorts, and air and land carriers and “when the situation allows, we pay the medical costs directly to the provider so you don’t have to pay anything upfront or out of your pocket.”

Does Blue Cross cover COVID-19?

Emergency medical care for COVID-19 is covered as long as you have not contracted or experienced symptoms prior to the effective date of your contract. This does not cover the cost of COVID-19 tests while travelling, unless one is prescribed by a physician due to a medical emergency or sudden illness.

Does Blue Cross offer coverage extensions?

Yes. Your coverage is automatically extended for 24 hours starting on the final day of your trip due to a transportation delay. If you or your travelling companion are hospitalized, your coverage is extended for the period of hospitalization and the 24-hour period after discharge. If your return home is delayed due to a medical emergency that started within 24 hours before your scheduled return date and required emergency treatment, your coverage is automatically extended for up to 72 hours.

You can also request an extension if you want to stay longer on your trip, provided you apply before the expiry date of your policy, you are still eligible for insurance and your health has not changed since your departure. Your request may be denied if you have a claim in progress or the Canadian government has a new travel advisory in effect or recommends travellers return home.

Does Blue Cross require a medical questionnaire?

No. Unlike other insurance providers, a medical questionnaire is not mandatory, but is offered to travellers over age 54 who are travelling for longer than 31 days and travellers aged 76 and older. All travellers answer a basic health declaration to confirm eligibility that asks questions such as, has your doctor advised you not to travel, do you suffer from a terminal illness and do you suffer from kidney failure treated through dialysis. A medical questionnaire, which is completed by your physician, is optional but is recommended if you have pre-existing conditions. Your answers to these questions will be assessed by the Blue Cross medical directors and if you have pre-existing conditions that do “not present an increased risk, it will be covered.”

Does Blue Cross have any age restrictions?

Yes. Travellers must be at least 30 days old. If you are 85 years or under, the maximum number of days you can purchase until the annual multi-trip plan is 120 days. If you are 80 years old or under, you can purchase multi-trip insurance for maximum days of 150 or 180 days. Travellers age 76 and above can not get a quote online and must call the Customer Relations Centre for assistance.

When does my coverage with Blue Cross begin?

In general, if you purchase cancellation coverage, it begins the day you buy your policy and ends the day when you make a claim or leave on your trip. Your interruption coverage, if purchased, begins when you leave home. Your delay coverage begins once an insured risk prevents you from returning home as scheduled.

Can I get a refund with Blue Cross?

You can request a cancellation and full refund of your contract before the effective date of the contract (or the date the coverage begins) or during the 10 days following the date of purchase, with some exceptions.

Does Blue Cross offer a free look period?

Yes. Blue Cross gives you 10 days after purchase to review and cancel your contract if you’re not satisfied with it, unless you have made or intend to make a claim related to the contract, the contract is for a period of 10 days or less or if the contract was purchased within 11 days before the trip and includes the trip cancellation or interruption coverage.

Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

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Canadians are optimistic about travel in 2024: Blue Cross Travel Study

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Take off with Canada’s #1 travel insurance provider

Enjoy the confidence and peace of mind with Blue Cross when exploring Canada or around the world

#1 in Travel Insurance

Out-of-province emergency medical expenses are not generally covered by your provincial medical plan and these expenses can be financially overwhelming.

For millions of Canadians, comprehensive emergency travel coverage offered by Blue Cross has become an essential part of their holiday plans.

As a recognized symbol of health care globally, being trusted, professional and familiar is what you need in your coverage provider when travelling out of province.

Travel Worry Free

Let Blue Cross travel coverage take care of any unexpected medical emergency costs so you can make the most of your trip.

Whether you travel frequently during the year, take regular sun destination trips or do only occasional short trips, there is a plan that’s right for you.

Blue Cross is a member of a trusted global network, including the American Blue Cross & Blue Shield Association and the International Federation of Health Funds.

Canadians are optimistic about travel in 2024

The cost of travel is on the rise, but that isn’t stopping most Canadians from planning a vacation.

A ccording to a new study from Blue Cross , Canadians spent an average of $4,200 on their last vacation, and 94 per cent feel the cost of travelling is increasing .

H owever , the 2024 Blue Cross Travel Study also reveals that more Canadians are feeling optimistic about travel and are planning more trips this year.   

Find the Right Plan

We understand making the right choice for your benefits and coverage is important.

We’re here to help!

Please click below to be redirected to your local Blue Cross for more specifics, including local contact information.

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Choose your region

Coverage that goes where you go: Travel worry-free with Blue Cross Blue Shield

Planning to hit the road this travel season?   You’ve got a lot to do!   You’ll have to book your travel, lodging and activities, pack and be sure your home is looked after while you’re gone.   That’s a lot to think about, and the list goes on. With so much to do, it’s easy to overlook one item that might prove crucial: ensuring that you will be covered if you need medical care while traveling.

Most Blue Cross Blue Shield members can rest easy since Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage opens doors in all 50 states and is accepted by over 90 percent of doctors and specialists.   And if your extended travel plans take you abroad, you can ensure you have access to quality care through GeoBlue .

BCBS Coverage Travels with You

If you aren’t sure what’s covered, it’s a good idea to call your Blue Cross Blue Shield company to find out what your benefits are if something goes awry while on vacation. When traveling within the United States, most Blue Cross Blue Shield members will be covered under the BlueCard program, which connects all 36 individual Blue Cross Blue Shield companies so that members can enjoy access to the savings the local Blue Cross Blue Shield plan has negotiated with its doctors and hospitals.

For example, if a member of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, whose Plan includes the BlueCard program, falls and breaks his arm while hiking in Yellowstone, he will be charged the rate Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming has negotiated with the local hospital rather than paying the steep fees he would otherwise encounter.   Likewise, a BCBS Wyoming member who falls ill in Dallas would be charged the rate BCBS Texas has negotiated with its local providers.   It’s one of the many benefits of belonging to the nation’s oldest and largest health insurance system.

If your plans include international travel, GeoBlue   has an extensive network of options to meet your needs when living or working abroad for an extended period of time.   Though many Blue Cross Blue Shield plans cover international care in emergency situations, GeoBlu e  plans offer the most complete set of benefits and access to services like emergency medical evacuation, which might not be covered by your regular plan.

Insurance Tips for Travelers

Here are a few steps you can take to take charge of your health while traveling:

Traveling Within the United States

• Call your BCBS company to find out what your benefits cover while traveling.
• Always carry your current BCBS ID Card .
• To find nearby doctors and hospitals, call BlueCard Access at 1-800-810-BLUE (2583) or visit the Blue National Doctor & Hospital Provider Finder .
• Call your Blue Plan for precertification or prior authorization if necessary. Refer to the phone number located on your Blue ID card.

Traveling Abroad

• Verify your international benefits with your Blue Plan before leaving the United States, or purchase a GeoBlue  plan.
• Always carry your Blue ID card.
• If you need to locate a doctor or hospital, or need medical assistance services, hotlines are available 24/7. You can reach the BlueCard Worldwide Service Center at 1-800-810-BLUE (2583) or call collect at 1-804-673-1177. If you’re a GeoBlue member, call collect at 1-610-254-8771, or 1-800-257-4823 from inside the U.S.

To learn more, visit BCBS.com or the GeoBlue website.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is an association of 35 independent, locally operated Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield companies.

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GeoBlue Travel Insurance Coverage Review — Is It Worth It?

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Table of Contents

Why purchase travel insurance, why choose geoblue, travel medical insurance and the covid-19 virus, geoblue policy comparisons, how to obtain a quote, the value of travel insurance comparison sites, how geoblue compares — summary, everything else you need to know, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

We frequently discuss travel insurance and look closely at companies that offer the coverage , but today we’re narrowing our focus from comprehensive travel insurance to a specific type of travel coverage — travel medical insurance.

Chances are you’ve heard of BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS), one of the leading healthcare insurance providers in the U.S. The company was established in 1929 and currently insures over 107 million members. GeoBlue, an independent licensee of BCBS, picks up where BCBS leaves off, offering travel medical coverage worldwide .

You do not have to be a member of BCBS to purchase travel medical insurance from GeoBlue as the company makes its products widely available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

In an effort to determine the benefits of GeoBlue as a viable option for purchasing travel medical insurance, join us as we explore the following in today’s review:

• Why you should consider travel insurance and specifically GeoBlue
• An overview of the types of plans the company offers
• Comparing plans and obtaining a quote
• How the company measures up versus other companies and to credit card travel insurance

Insurance products, in general, serve the purpose of indemnifying you and making you whole (or nearly whole) should a covered event cause you to incur a financial loss. Travel insurance , and in this case travel medical insurance, is designed to accomplish the same objective.

Since our topic for this article is narrowed to travel medical insurance , let’s look at several reasons you’d want to consider this coverage.

• Your current health insurance policy does not provide coverage outside of the U.S. and/or its territories
• Your current health insurance policy covers you outside of the country but has a high deductible
• You are on Medicare and do not have a supplement plan
• You want a primary travel medical policy that gives you access to a network of medical providers in the country you’re visiting
• You have insurance from your credit card for trip cancellation, trip interruption , and other travel disruptions, but not travel medical coverage
• You are traveling to a remote area and want to have emergency evacuation insurance

This is just a sampling of some of the situations where you’d want to consider purchasing a travel medical insurance policy. Fortunately, the coverage is affordable and widely available.

Bottom Line: If your current health insurance policy does not cover you while traveling abroad or has a high deductible if it does provide coverage, you’ll want to consider purchasing travel medical insurance . Additionally, you should consider travel medical insurance if you’re concerned about emergency medical evacuation, or want to have 1 primary policy that covers you during your travels. 

If you have the need to purchase travel medical insurance, there are certainly a lot of companies from which to select. GeoBlue stands tall among those competitors for several reasons.

First, the company has been providing global health insurance options since 1997, is a licensee of BCBS with a rating of excellent by financial insurance rating company, AM Best, and has an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.

Additionally, you can expect the following benefits when insuring with GeoBlue:

• GeoBlue has a vetted group of elite doctors in a network that spans 190 countries. Physicians must be certified by the American or Royal Board of Medical Specialties.
• Visits to network doctors/facilities are handled cashless, eliminating the need to file a claim for reimbursement.
• In addition to in-person care, GeoBlue utilizes alternative telemedicine options available 24/7 and provides access to a global network of physicians and facilities.
• Access is available to 24/7 assistance including translation services, physician referrals, prescription services, destination assistance, and more.

Bottom Line: GeoBlue is an established, highly-rated company that specializes in providing travel medical insurance with associated care via its global physician network, telemedicine services, and 24/7 medical assistance services. 

Travel insurance, in general, does not cover voluntary trip cancellations due to the fear of getting ill for any reason, including the fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus. In addition, some travel insurance companies specifically exclude COVID-19 for most coverages. Other travel insurance companies provide limited coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses under trip interruption and medical care coverages only.

You’ll want to review any policy you’re considering to make sure your greatest concerns are covered.

In order to have any coverage that provides reimbursement for a voluntary trip cancellation, for example, you’ll need to consider Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance .

Travel medical insurance does not normally include extensive coverage for trip cancellations or disruptions  but focuses more on providing medical care and reimbursement for the associated expenses that occur as a result of becoming ill or having an accident during your travels.

Fortunately, many of the medical insurance policies offered by GeoBlue do cover COVID-19-related illness . Let’s look closer at the available options.

Bottom Line: In order to have coverage for trip cancellation due to the fear of getting ill, you would need to purchase Cancel for Any Reason insurance. Some policies provide limited coverage for COVID-19 under trip cancellation and trip disruption coverages should you contract the virus prior to or during your travels. Many of the travel medical policies offered by GeoBlue cover COVID-19-related illness care . 

GeoBlue offers single trip, multi-trip, and long-term plans. The company also issues specialty travel medical plans for students, workers on assignment, missionaries, volunteers, and maritime workers while abroad.

First, let’s look at the policy options for individuals and group travelers.

Short-Term Single-Trip Plan Options — GeoBlue Voyager

GeoBlue Voyager plans are designed for individual single-trip travel or group single-trip events. Groups are defined as 5 or more persons traveling together and a 10% discount off of individual pricing is provided.

Voyager plans include coverage for COVID-19-related illness care. 

Here’s how the 2 Voyager policy options compare.

Multi-Trip Plan Options — GeoBlue Trekker

If you’re a frequent traveler, it could make sense to purchase 1 annual policy that covers multiple trips. GeoBlue Trekker multi-trip plans cover all trips made within a 12-month period (up to 70 days in length) and offer 2 levels of coverage options.

Here is a comparison of the 2 GeoBlue Trekker plans.

Both plans cover pre-existing conditions and emergency and non-emergency medical care. Both plans require that you have a primary health plan in place to qualify for purchasing these plans.

Long-Term Plan Options

If you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident living abroad and need medical insurance, GeoBlue offers 2 plans that may provide the coverage you need for you and your family.

These plans are different from short-term plans in that medical underwriting is needed in order to qualify. Here’s a brief summary of GeoBlue plans for U.S. expats.

All GeoBlue plans offer 24/7 global medical assistance, translation services, doctor searches, and destination health/security information.

GeoBlue Navigator, Xplorer, and Voyager plans include coverage for COVID-19-related illness .

Additional Plans Available

GeoBlue provides additional medical plans for specific types of travelers working abroad, on assignment, or participating in study programs.

• Incoming international students studying in the U.S.
• Students studying abroad
• Employees of multi-national companies working abroad
• Expatriate Crew International Health Plan — for those working on ships
• Expatriate Missionary and Volunteer International Health Plan — covers missionaries, aid workers, and volunteers worldwide

Bottom Line: GeoBlue offers several comprehensive individual travel medical plan options, comprehensive student plans including coverage for international visiting students, and plans for U.S. students, faculty, and family when studying abroad. GeoBlue also offers employer plans that provide coverage to employees working abroad and their families. Missionaries, those who volunteer internationally, and maritime workers will also find policies designed specifically for those situations. 

Obtaining a quote for any type of travel insurance can be quick, easy, and can even result in securing immediate coverage. The process is similar for travel medical insurance.

To obtain a quote from GeoBlue for a single trip plan, you’ll need to input your travel destination, your state of residence, the length of your trip, age, cost of the trip, and the date you made the first trip deposit.

For a multi-trip annual plan quote, the process is similar. You’ll need to input your zip code, age, and the desired effective date of the policy.

Obtaining a quote with GeoBlue for a single or multi-trip policy can be done in just a few minutes. To obtain a long-term policy quote, you’ll need to submit some of the same basic information and a quote will be emailed to you.

Bottom Line: Obtaining a quote for a single or multi-trip policy is a quick and simple process completed on the GeoBlue website. A long-term quote for qualifying applicants must be requested via email. 

While purchasing a travel medical policy from GeoBlue ensures you’re dealing with a highly-rated established company, it’s always good to do some comparison shopping when looking for any type of insurance.

Viewing a selection of policies side-by-side makes it easy to compare coverages and costs. This task is easily accomplished by utilizing a travel insurance comparison website such as the ones listed here.

Additionally, comparison sites allow you to narrow the number of policies to those that contain the coverages most important to you. Here are a few we recommend:

• InsureMyTrip — great for stand-alone medical travel insurance policy comparisons but also offers comprehensive travel insurance policies from over 20 providers
• Squaremouth — easy to navigate site that allows you to compare dozens of travel insurance companies and filter by desired coverage, including travel medical insurance
• TravelInsurance.com — you’ll want to use this site for comparing travel insurance plans, including those with medical coverage, however, no stand-alone medical plan quotes are available

Bottom Line: Utilize a travel insurance comparison site to help you easily compare several plans, filter by desired coverage, and select those that best match your coverage priorities. 

We know that GeoBlue is a reputable choice for travel medical insurance but let’s look at how the company’s offerings compare to other travel medical providers and to the coverage that comes with your credit cards.

GeoBlue vs. Other Travel Insurance Companies

When we searched for a quote using the criteria of a traveler, age 40, for a trip to Mexico for 1 week that costs $3,000, the top 4 results above were shown. You’ll notice by the results that single-trip travel medical insurance can be an affordable option.

The next key element in selecting a policy will be to compare coverages. We know that GeoBlue Voyager policies include coverage for COVID-19 with the Voyager plans, for example, so this may be a key factor in our selection.

Digging deeper into our comparison we find that 1 policy does not include coverage for COVID-19. If we narrow our search to plans that only include this coverage, the next step will be to look at other coverages and limits that are important to us.

In this case, coverages for these policies are similar and costs do not vary widely. GeoBlue, however, remains competitive in both coverages offered and premiums charged.

Bottom Line: While GeoBlue holds its own and is competitive in both coverages and cost when compared to other travel medical insurance companies for single-trip plans, we know that coverage for multi-trip plans does not include coverage for COVID-19-related illness. 

GeoBlue vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

We frequently remind travelers that even the best credit cards for travel insurance are not a replacement for a comprehensive travel insurance policy. This is especially true for travel medical insurance coverage as you won’t find comprehensive medical coverage on any credit card .

There are very few cards that do offer emergency evacuation insurance and other ancillary medical/dental coverage. Here are 2 of the best options for travel-related coverages and benefits.

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

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When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck ® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck ® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

American Express Membership Rewards

To learn more about all the travel insurance coverages that come with the Amex Platinum card, you’ll want to review our in-depth article on the topic. Note that terms apply and enrollment may be required for some benefits, so make sure you enroll through your American Express account.

Chase Sapphire Reserve ®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel SM  immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass TM  Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Chase Ultimate Rewards

For more information on Chase Sapphire Reserve card travel insurance coverages , you’ll want to access our expanded overview.

Bottom Line: While credit cards may offer travel accident, trip delay , and other ancillary travel insurance coverages, these cards do not offer travel medical insurance. 

Here’s some additional information we need to pass along applicable to the GeoBlue policies mentioned in our article:

• Eligibility includes U.S. citizens and permanent residents only
• Single and multi-trip medical insurance policies must be purchased in your home country before you travel
• Long-term policies, such as those for expats, may be purchased while abroad
• Travelers under 96 are generally eligible for coverage; other age limits may apply to specific policies
• Coverage is valid in all countries other than where the plan would violate U.S. economic trade sanctions
• Some GeoBlue policy options are secondary and require you to have an underlying medical insurance policy
• All policies issued by GeoBlue have a 10-day money-back guarantee

GeoBlue’s expertise at providing travel medical insurance makes it a good choice for purchasing coverage for a single or group trip, or if you’re an expat needing longer-term medical coverage while abroad. Students, faculty, and employers will also find comprehensive medical plans that fit their international medical insurance needs.

Finally, keep in mind that our article today is simply an overview and abbreviated summary of GeoBlue’s policy offerings — plenty of terms and conditions apply. The company’s website provides everything you need to select the appropriate policy, review coverages, obtain a quote, and purchase a plan.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How does geoblue travel insurance work.

GeoBlue specializes in travel medical insurance. Care is provided internationally primarily via a comprehensive, vetted, and certified worldwide network of physicians and hospitals in 190 countries, but out-of-network international care is also covered. Additionally, the company provides worldwide care via telemedicine appointments.

The company offers international single trip, multi-trip, and group travel medical insurance plans.

It’s specialty travel medical insurance plans include policies for visiting international students, U.S. students studying abroad, and faculty members.

Additional plans include plans for those who work abroad for multi-national companies, maritime works, missionaries, and volunteers.

Is GeoBlue a good travel insurance company?

Yes. GeoBlue, a licensee of Blue Cross Blue Shield, is an established travel medical insurance company that has been offering international health insurance since 1997.

The company received a high financial rating from insurance rating company A.M. Best and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Does GeoBlue meet Schengen visa insurance requirements?

Yes. GeoBlue travel medical insurance plans meet Schengen visa insurance requirements.

Does GeoBlue cover dental?

GeoBlue Voyager and Trekker plans offer ancillary dental coverage with limits between $100 and $500, depending on the plan, which includes emergency dental care for injury or relief of pain.

Voyager plans have additional dental and vision care riders which are optional add-ons.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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Annual travel plan

When you need emergency medical care away from home, the costs can quickly add up, and Manitoba Health does not fully cover you when you are out of the province. Protect yourself with Manitoba Blue Cross coverage.

Designed for the frequent traveller, get year-round emergency travel health coverage on trips of 32 days or less. This comprehensive plan is ideal for Manitoba residents with vacation property in another province.

Prefer to purchase a travel plan in person or have questions about them?

Effective February 28, 2022, the Government of Canada has lifted the global travel advisory to avoid all non-essential travel due to COVID-19. All travel advisories are once again specific to each country.

If you are fully vaccinated or not yet eligible for a vaccine due to age: This annual plan or our regular deluxe travel health plan covers you for emergency coronavirus-related health claims provided there is no COVID-related travel advisory for the specific destination.*

If you are not vaccinated or travelling to a destination that has a COVID-related travel advisory or want more inclusive coronavirus coverage: Our travel health plans with coronavirus coverage will cover you for emergency coronavirus-related health claims, including coverages of quarantine, taxi to a test site and return to Manitoba in the event of a travel advisory related to COVID while away.

Want to better understand travel health coverage during the pandemic? Find answers to some frequently asked questions here .

Eligibility

Already purchased a travel plan, find the right plan for you.

Travel Health Benefits are covered to a maximum of $5,000,000 per person, per claim to a lifetime maximum of $5,000,000 per person.

The following Travel Health Benefits are applicable to sudden, unexpected or unforeseen emergency treatment only:

• Hospital in-patient and out-patient coverage.
• Medical and surgical coverage.
• Ambulance coverage.
• Coverage for emergency evacuation from a mountain, body of water or other remote location, by a commercial operator licensed to convey passengers when a regular ambulance service cannot be used, to a maximum of $5,000 per person.
• Economy air transportation home by stretcher.
• Dental care to natural teeth when necessitated by a direct accidental blow to the mouth. Maximum coverage $3,000 per accident.
• Emergency relief of dental pain to a maximum of $300.
• Up to $7,500 towards the cost of transporting the deceased home, or up to $5,000 for cremation or burial at place of death.
• Private duty nursing.
• Additional board and lodging expenses incurred beyond the original duration of your trip by an immediate family member or friend covered by a Manitoba Blue Cross Travel Health Plan remaining with you during your hospitalization.
• Coverage for transportation to your bedside, while you are confined to hospital for at least three days outside of Manitoba. Transportation coverage also allowed for a family member to identify the deceased prior to release of the body, if required by law. Coverage includes round-trip economy airfare on a commercial flight via the most direct cost-effective route from Canada to the place where the illness or accident occurred.
• Coverage for commercial accommodations and meals for a person travelling to the bedside or travelling to identify a deceased family member to a combined maximum of $200 per day to a maximum benefit payment of $2,500.
• Physiotherapy provided in a hospital.
• Chiropractic and/or podiatrist services.
• Prescription drugs.
• Repair or replacement of prescription eyeglasses or contact lens or lenses due to accident or injury to a maximum of $100.
• An allowance of $40 per day for each day you are hospitalized. Maximum coverage $1,000.
• Return of your vehicle if you become totally disabled and are unable to drive, to a maximum of $4,000.
• Medical evacuation to a hospital in Canada. Prior approval must be obtained from Manitoba Blue Cross.
• Additional cost, of the most direct return economy flight to Manitoba from the place where you were hospitalized, including the cost of return economy flight for a nurse if nursing care is required during your flight home. This benefit is also available to your family (applicant, spouse and dependent children) or one friend who is also covered by a Manitoba Blue Cross travel health policy travelling with you at the time of injury or onset of illness.
• Additional cost of return economy airfare for an escort to accompany your children (up to 18 years) to Manitoba in the event you have been air evacuated to Canada for medical reasons.
• Coverage up to a combined maximum of up to $500 per pet for:
• ~Commercial kennel or cost of returning an accompanying pet to your home city in Manitoba in the event you are hospitalized for a minimum of three days as an in-patient.
• ~Emergency veterinary care due to an unexpected injury of accompanying pet.
• International Travel Assistance: the provision of 24 hour worldwide assistance for medical situations arising out of emergency illness or accident requiring hospitalization or medical treatment.

‍ Failure to contact the Travel Assistance service prior to receiving any treatment may invalidate coverage.

Medical Emergency While TravelIing

Contact the international travel assistance service immediately for benefits verification and procedures.

• In Canada and United States, call toll free 1.866.601.2583

• In all other countries, or if you are having difficulties with the toll free number, call collect 204.775.2583 (country code may be required)

• If unable to call collect, place the call and submit your detailed receipt for the long distance charges with your claim.

For general inquiries, call Manitoba Blue Cross at 204.775.0151 or 1.888.596.1032 (toll-free).

To be eligible for travel health coverage you must be covered by Manitoba Health for the entire duration of the period of coverage. Coverage is available up to and including age 74. If purchased prior to your 75th birthday, coverage is effective for the entire duration of the coverage term.

Annual Coverage must be purchased prior to departure from Manitoba and the trip must originate and terminate in Manitoba.

To be eligible to apply for coverage under a Manitoba Blue Cross Travel Plan, the applicant, spouse and dependents must not:

• be travelling outside Manitoba with the intent to seek medical advice, surgery, treatment or a second opinion, even if the trip is on the recommendation of a physician or other medical professional.
• have been advised by their physician or other medical professional not to travel.
• have had two or more major strokes. (Strokes that have resulted in symptoms that lasted for more than 24 hours).
• require home oxygen.
• be receiving kidney dialysis.
• have received a terminal prognosis.
• have been diagnosed with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Please Note:

• A pre-existing stability period will apply.
• Students attending classes outside of Manitoba are not eligible for this plan.
• Travellers who are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine but are not vaccinated will not be eligible for coronavirus-related health claims.

No refunds are available except in the case of duplicate Manitoba Blue Cross travel coverage.

Need Additional Days?

Not available for applicants age 55 to 74, all trips under the Annual Travel Plan must be 32 days or less and cannot be extended.                            

Any extension purchased to extend coverage beyond the 32-day limitation will invalidate all coverage for that trip.

‍ Available for applicants under age 55 (on the effective date of term of coverage).

If you're planning a trip in excess of 32 days, you must purchase additional days of coverage.

* Additional days are not available for purchase online.

Prior to Departure

Additional days of coverage may be purchased prior to your departure providing:

• your request is received prior to your departure date.
• the total duration of your trip does not exceed 62 days. (32 days plus maximum of 30 additional days.)

After Departure

Additional days of coverage may be purchased after departure providing:

• your request is received prior to the 32nd day of trip
• no medical attention has been received during initial term

* Regardless of your age this coverage cannot be extended beyond the stated limitations. Any extension purchased to extend coverage beyond the limitations of the Plan or purchased from another carrier for any portion of your trip will invalidate all coverage for that trip under the Annual Travel Plan.

Contact Manitoba Blue Cross or an authorized agent for further information or to make the necessary arrangements.

The information on this page is for reference only. For complete coverage details, please refer to the Annual and Deluxe Terms and Provisions . In the event of any difference between the terms here and those of the Terms and Provisions, the terms of the provisions shall prevail.

For Members

Find a plan, advice center, common questions, frequently asked questions about travel insurance.

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Travel Insurance & COVID 19

The Government of Canada has issued an official global advisory to avoid non-essential travel (Level 3) outside of the country to limit the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). As a result, coverage related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) will be affected:

Travel Medical Insurance For trips that depart on or after March 13, 2020, Coronavirus (COVID-19) related illness will not be covered unless you are fully vaccinated. You can learn more about how Government travel advisories impact coverage in our Travel Insurance FAQs .

Trip Protection Insurance (Cancellations/Interruptions) Effective March 12, 2020, we are considering Coronavirus (COVID-19) to be a known event for individually purchased Trip Protection. Travel insurance is intended to cover losses arising from sudden and unforeseeable circumstances. Any claims resulting from events known to a policyholder at time purchasing the trip are not covered.

Extensions Due to the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic and in alignment with our policy terms and conditions, we will not be providing extensions of coverage until further notice.

These conditions will remain in effect until the advisory is lifted or otherwise stated by Pacific Blue Cross.

Learn why members should pack Pacific Blue Cross travel Insurance.

Are you a member? Save an additional 10% .

Get a Quote or call 1-877-PAC- BLUE .

COVID-19 and Our Emergency Medical Plans

COVID-19 Coverage is simple with a Pacific Blue Cross Emergency Medical plan:

Pacific Blue Cross Emergency Medical Plans will cover all travelers regardless of their vaccination status, according to all standard policy terms and conditions.

If you have had a recent COVID diagnosis, positive test, or symptoms, you could still be covered for COVID-19 medical or subsistence expenses while you travel, if you purchase our pre-existing condition waiver.

Simple as that.

Still have questions? See our FAQ below:

We support the Canadian Government’s official position on  travelling vaccinated .

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical plans contain $10M in COVID-19 coverage at no additional cost for: All travellers As long as there is no advisory in place Fully vaccinated travellers Anywhere in the world, regardless of advisory level Travellers who have had COVID-19 When it is stable for as little as 7 days before departure as long as they purchase our pre-existing rider

• We support the Canadian Government’s official position on travelling vaccinated .

COVID 19 will be covered on our Emergency Medical plans for all travellers regardless of vaccination status except for:

• Anyone who has had COVID within the 30 days prior to departure; and/or
• An unvaccinated traveler in a region or destination where COVID-19 has a Canadian Government advisory against travel.

Our policy excludes coverage for any “medical condition resulting from an infectious disease or illness for which there is a travel advisory or health warning by a Canadian Government Agency that has been published or broadcast in the media prior to the Effective date of the Covered Person’s policy” unless the Covered Person is Fully Vaccinated as per our contract language.

It depends.  Our Emergency Medical plans have a pre-existing condition clause that may prevent your claim from being paid.  Please make sure that you familiarize yourself with your policy booklet  and understand the exclusions that may apply to you. You may want to consider purchasing our Pre Existing Condition optional benefit for additional peace of mind.

Eligibility of Refund:

• Annual and Daily Emergency Medical plans are 100% refundable if they are cancelled PRIOR to the effective date.
• Annual and Daily Emergency Medical Plans that have started (after the effective date) are non-refundable, even if you did not leave or are no longer planning to travel.
• The unused portion of Annual Emergency Medical plans that have already started is non-refundable, even if your travel plans have changed.
• Plans that include trip cancellation are non-refundable, even if you have not left on your trip.
• We must receive your cancellation request by email to [email protected] prior to the effective date to be eligible for a refund.

Our Simple and Fast Cancellation Process:

• No need to wait on the phone! If your plan is eligible for cancellation, You can cancel your policy by simply sending an email to [email protected]. Please be sure to include your full name and your certificate number.
• We consider your request to be received in our office on the date you send your email, even if we are unable respond to you before the start date. One of our agents will call you back as soon as possible for your credit card details. (For your privacy, we ask that you please do not send credit card information by email.)
• As long as your plan is eligible as above, and your email is sent to us prior to your effective date , you will receive a full refund.
• When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for a number of diseases which are common in other parts of the world. Some countries  may require vaccinations  as part of their entry requirements. You can learn more about Travel Vaccines on our Vaccination page.

Vaccinations are not always appropriate for some Canadians such as children or immunocompromised individuals.  If you are travelling to a country where there is a Government of Canada advisory warning against the outbreak of an infectious disease such as COVID-19, unvaccinated travellers will not be covered for this infectious disease regardless of their personal reasons for not being vaccinated. This only applies if there is an advisory in place, such as a level 3 or 4 risk level.

We recommend you always have appropriate insurance coverage when leaving British Columbia. While COVID-19 insurance may be included in some airline tickets, it’s important to understand the amount of coverage that you will receive and know any limitations or exclusions to the policy. It’s very important to also ensure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover other emergency medical situations that may arise. For example, these policies typically will not cover you for any other illness or injury that might happen on your trip, such as a broken leg or heart attack.

Testing is only included in your plan if it is ordered by a doctor in the course of an eligible emergency treatment.  We do not pay expenses for COVID testing under any other circumstance.

Yes, COVID-19 is treated as any other Illness and would be subject to all eligibility requirements of your plan, including the pre-existing condition clause.

No, this is not covered as it is an expected expense.

You will be covered for eligible subsistence benefits of up to $300 per day to a maximum of $3,000 under your plan.   This would not include costs for your travel companion, they must check with their own insurer .

Yes, you will be covered for eligible subsistence benefits of up to $300 per day to a maximum of $3,000 per policy if a positive COVID test is the cause of a delay in your return home.

COVID-19 and our Trip Protection Plans

For all Trip Protection plans that include trip cancellation or interruption purchased after March 13, 2020, COVID-19 is considered a known event.

Despite this fact, we have added some limited COVID-19 related benefits to all our Trip Protection plans purchased after June 1, 2022, at no additional cost.

Trip Cancellation – we will reimburse all eligible non-refundable, prepaid expenses if, while still in your home province, you, an immediate family member, or a travelling companion contract symptomatic COVID-19, and the symptoms still persist within the 14 days of your intended departure date, and they are serious enough to require you to cancel your trip.

Trip Interruption – after departure, if you or your travelling companion experience a COVID 19 Illness, positive test result, or Quarantine that causes your trip to be interrupted we will pay the following;

• $300 per person per day to a maximum of $6,000 per policy for accommodation, meals, essential phone calls, and transportation by taxi
• $500 per person to a maximum of $2,500 per policy for additional transportation costs including flight change costs, back to your departure point or to your next destination if mid trip.

A Pacific Blue Cross Trip Protection plan can also protect you against all the other situations not related to COVID 19, such as unexpected weather delays or lost baggage.

A Pacific Blue Cross Trip Protection plan is a great way to protect your travels!

Many airlines require you to purchase a certain fare level to receive free cancellation or they may only provide a flight credit or one-time change should you need to cancel or postpone your travel for a covered condition. Trip Protection insurance allows you to recover your pre-paid travel costs no matter the fare level purchased.

No, we only reimburse your eligible non-refundable trip costs if you purchased your plan after June 1, 2022 and are still sick with COVID-19 in the 14 days prior to your intended departure and you must cancel your trip.

No, the COVD-19 Trip Cancellation benefit only applies to symptomatic COVID-19.

Yes, as long as you purchased your plan after June 1, 2022 and she is still symptomatic in the 14 days prior to your intended departure date, your eligible non-refundable trip costs will be considered.

It depends.  Our Trip Cancellation and Interruption plans have a pre-existing condition clause that may prevent your claim from being paid.  Please make sure that you familiarize yourself with your policy booklet  and understand the exclusions that may apply to you. And remember, the COVID-19 cancellation is only eligible for plans purchased after June 1, 2022.

You can purchase Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance up to 365 days before you depart for your trip. We also offer the flexibility of refunds on Travel Medical Insurance up to 48 hours before you depart. Trip Protection plans can be purchased at any time, even if your first payment for a trip expense was a number of months ago.

It’s important to check government travel advisories prior to travelling. Public health officials are currently recommending that Canadians avoid non-essential, international travel. Travelling when there is a government advisory before you are fully vaccinated may impact your travel insurance coverage.

Plans that include trip cancellation are not eligible for refunds.  Please refer to your policy booklet under “Refund of Premium” for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Insurance

You should be aware that your provincial coverage may not pay for all health care costs you may incur while outside of the province, and the difference can be substantial. For example, B.C. pays $75 (CAD) a day for emergency in-patient hospital care, while the average cost in the U.S. often exceeds $1000 (US) a day, and can be as high as $10,000 (US) a day in intensive care. For this reason, you are strongly advised to purchase additional health insurance from a private insurer before you leave the province, whether you are going to another part of Canada or outside the country. You are advised to purchase additional coverage even if you plan to be away for only a day.

When you purchase Travel Medical insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child 21 years of age or younger who is subsequently added to your travel policy will receive free emergency medical coverage for up to $10,000,000.

If the Covered person needs health care while out of the province, he/she must call Medi-Assist immediately. Within Canada and the USA: 1 888 699–9333. From all other countries: 1 604 419-4487 collect. Please have your travel certificate number and your Care Card number ready.

If you have a Pacific Blue Cross Extended Health Care and/or Dental plan you are eligible to receive a discount of 10% or more off your Travel Insurance premium. Simply enter your extended health or dental policy number and any applicable discounts will be automatically applied to your purchase.

If you have an Extended Health Plan with Pacific Blue Cross, your Travel Plan will be first payer. This protects the lifetime limit on your Extended Health Plan.

If you have additional coverage through a benefits plan outside Pacific Blue Cross, we will coordinate cost-sharing of claims with that plan and provider. This will impact your plan as outlined in your spouse’s policy. However, there will be no impact to your existing Pacific Blue Cross extended health coverage.

You may be able to extend your existing Travel Plan. Extensions must be purchased before your existing Plan expires.

Please contact Pacific Blue Cross – we'll review your Travel Plan to see if it is eligible for an extension.

Phone:   604 419-2200

Toll Free (within North America):   1 877 PAC-BLUE (1 877 722-2583)

E-mail:   [email protected]

Our Government health plan covers a limited amount of expenses that are incurred outside the province. A Travel Plan will pick up costs not covered by our Government health plan.  More information on the limitations of your BC Health Plan (MSP) coverage and why you should have travel insurance for trips within Canada is available on the  BC Ministry of Health website .

An Annual plan provides the best value if you're taking two or more trips per year.

For example, at the 0-34 age group: Two 15-day Single trip plans: $86 One 15-day Annual plan: $52 Total savings with an Annual plan: $34

Plus, with an Annual plan, any additional 15-day trips within the year are covered under the same plan for even more savings.

This should be the average length of time that you typically travel at any given time. Don't worry, you can always add extra days or top-up your coverage if you end up planning a trip that is longer than your selected coverage.

This benefit will provide reimbursement of your travel costs if your trip is cancelled before departure due to a covered risk.

Trip Protection Insurance helps you recover non-refundable, prepaid expenses should an unexpected situation such as these arise:

• An event that leads the Government of Canada to issue a general recommendation not to travel to the region (plan must be purchased prior to the Government’s recommendation)
• Illness that requires a doctor’s attention prior to or hospitalization during your trip
• Adverse weather conditions resulting in cancellations or delays
• Unexpected death in the family
• New pregnancy that would mean the Covered person would be travelling during the 33 rd week or later of their pregnancy
• Jury duty (except for Law enforcement officers)
• Loss of employment (must be employed permanently for at least 1 consecutive year)

Trip Protection Insurance provides coverage when an unexpected situation impacts your travel plans. Deciding not to travel because you no longer want to go or you don’t think it will be safe (unless the Government of Canada has issued a general recommendation not to travel to the region) are not covered reasons. Check your policy’s details for a full explanation of what is covered.

It depends on the illness, its seriousness and its stability. Some illnesses are easily covered. Others require a three or six month stability period, depending on your age. Blue Cross offers the possibility of covering your illness with a medical questionnaire (available for persons aged 61 and over) filled out by your treating physician; Blue Cross’ medical team will then evaluate your condition. If authorized, you can travel worry-free: your chronic illness will also be covered.

A distinction should be made between a statement of health and a medical questionnaire.

A medical questionnaire is an option Blue Cross offers to cover pre-existing conditions for individuals over 61 years of age. You are not obliged to complete this questionnaire, however doing so gives you a definite advantage. In 80% of cases, the questionnaires result in coverage that may otherwise not be granted. Simply have your doctor complete the questionnaire and send it to us. Your health status will then be assessed by the Blue Cross medical director; if your pre-existing condition is stable and does not present an increased risk, it will be covered and you will be able to leave on your trip with true peace of mind.

The statement of health determines what will be covered, what will be excluded and the travel insurance premium. The premium is based on the risks inherent with age, the health condition and trip length.

Yes - Regardless of any existing conditions, we always advise members to still purchase coverage, as it will protect against all other accidents not related to that condition.

Travel insurance policies are designed to provide protection against unexpected emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption.

Depending on your age and the condition pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

It is important you review and understand any clauses or definitions in your chosen policy. Each travel insurance policy will uniquely define a pre-existing condition and there are many variations in wording. For example, policies may not cover conditions arising prior to the trip departure date:

• that are unstable
• where symptoms of an illness appeared
• that have been diagnosed or treated
• where medications have been changed

Travel policies will also specify a time frame, based on your age that relates to the evaluation of your pre-existing conditions. This time frame could be as short as 3 months but could be 1 year, 5 years or longer.

Some policies may provide coverage for your pre-existing conditions if you complete a more detailed medical questionnaire.

When purchasing our travel policy, we will evaluate pre-existing conditions for people 60 years and younger based on their health within the previous 3 months prior to the day their coverage begins. For people age 61 and over, we evaluate based on their health within 6 months prior.

Travel insurance policies often have limitations of coverage associated with pregnancy similar to the limitations within the travel industry at large. For this reason it is important you understand these limitations prior to commencing your travel.

In order for you to qualify to purchase travel insurance, you must have a valid Care Card number. Although, you are not required to provide it at time of purchase, we may request it later in order to process your claim.

When applying online, you must pay by using a major credit card.

However, you can mail in an application and enclose a cheque payable to Pacific Blue Cross for the premium. You can also come into our office and apply. Pacific Blue Cross must receive your application and cheque before you depart from BC.

• Out-of-Country and Out-of-Province Coverage and Claims   — Click here to obtain claim forms and instructions for claiming emergency medical expenses.
• Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form   - Use this form to claim for Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggages.
• Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form   - Use this form if you are claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract

If you wish to appeal a decision about a recent claim, contact our  Call Centre . Often an issue can be resolved by simply providing you with more information about your claim or what is covered by your plan. If one of our customer service representatives is unable to resolve the matter with you, they can escalate your request to a Benefit Review Committee for further review. They will explain how to file your appeal and help you to provide all relevant information regarding your claim.

A request for a refund of premium can be made prior to the Effective date of the policy, A request for a refund of premium can be made prior to the Effective date of the policy, if the insured returns to his/her province or territory of residence prior to the expiry date of the policy, or when a Visitors to Canada or policyholder becomes covered under a provincial or territorial hospital/medical plan. Please fill-in and return the Request for Travel Premium Refund Form to [email protected] . No refund can be given if you are covered under Trip Cancellation, Emergency Return Benefit and / or an Annual insurance plan. Administrative charges may apply.

When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for a number of diseases which are common in other parts of the world. You can learn more about Travel Vaccines on our  Vaccination page . Always remember to perform a Travel Health Check before you go.

Global Affairs collects and reports on health, safety and security across the world, and provides this information on their website for the benefit of travelling Canadians. 

Each country is individually assessed and assigned one of four main risk levels. These may apply to the whole country, or a region within the country.

The first two levels are considered travel advice:

• Exercise normal security precautions – no significant health or security risks are present, and the situation is similar to what you might expect in Canada.
• Exercise a high degree of caution - there might be some health or safety concerns in the country, and monitoring local media is recommended.  This level might be used if there has been some localized crime or violence that a traveller should be aware of so they can do their best to avoid the situation while they are exploring their destination.

The next two levels are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are only issued when the safety and security of Canadians is compromised. When advisories are issued, Canadians can expect to be at risk if they choose to travel when an advisory has been called.

• Avoid non-essential travel – there are specific health, safety and/or security concerns that put you at risk. You are strongly advised not to go if your travel can be avoided, unless it is absolutely essential.
• Avoid all travel – there is extreme risk to personal safety and security. You should not travel to this country, territory or region, and you should leave immediately if it is safe for you to do so. Access to healthcare is extremely limited or unavailable.

When a country has been assessed an official advisory, the reason for the advisory will be listed as well.

HOW ADVISORIES IMPACT MEDICAL PLANS:

When this advisory is related to an infectious disease or specific illness, then your policy will not cover you against this infectious disease or specific illness because you have been advised of this risk prior to your travel.   You are still covered for illness or injury related expenses that are not associated with the advisory.

There are two exceptions:

• If the risk level is 3, and you are considered by us to be an essential traveler, then you would be covered for eligible medical expenses related to the reason for the advisory.
• If you are fully vaccinated against the infectious disease or illness that is the cause for the advisory, then you would be covered for eligible medical expenses related to the reason for the advisory.

If the official travel advisory is called while you are already at the destination, then you will be covered for eligible medical expenses related to the reason for the advisory, even if it is risk level 4.

Travelling to a country in which the risk level is 4 is strongly discouraged as your coverage will be extremely limited:

• If the reason for the advisory is related to infectious disease or illness, you will be travelling against the advice of Health Canada’s physicians and your medical claims would not be considered, even if you are fully vaccinated.
• If the reason for the advisory is related to war, terrorism, insurrection, civil unrest, acts of hostility, military, or other similar events, your related injury claims will not be paid.

Claims entirely unrelated to the reasons for a Risk Level 4 advisory may be considered, however are generally limited to accidental injury because travellers are advised that access to infrastructure and services such as healthcare are limited or unavailable.

HOW ADVISORIES IMPACT TRIP PROTECTION PLANS

When the Canadian government issues an official advisory of risk level 3 or 4  to your destination causing you to cancel or interrupt travel, it is considered an unexpected situation and is therefore eligible for Trip Protection benefits. However, your trip must have been purchased PRIOR TO the government issued advisory.

Travel Insurance is intended to protect consumers from sudden and unforeseen events that arise and leave them with out of pocket expenses that they did not expect to incur.

When a Level 3 or 4 advisory is issued by the Government of Canada, they are stating that Canadians can expect to experience health or safety concerns and so should not travel.

For any Trip Cancellation benefits, this means that a trip purchased after a Level 3 or 4 advisory is issued cannot be cancelled for the reason of this advisory. This is an expected event.

For any Interruption/Delay benefits, if you choose to depart on your trip after the Government of Canada has issued a Level 3 or 4 advisory, then all benefits on your plan are invalidated. You are not covered because it is expected that you could experience an issue causing a claim. 

About Regional Advisories

When there are Regional Advisories — some geographic areas of your trip are assigned risk Level 1 and 2, but some parts are 3 or 4 — your benefits will be impacted if your claim occurs in the region assessed at risk level 3 or 4.  All of the same medical and trip protection rules will apply to your travel in that region, as they would  if your whole trip was in that area. It is vital that you understand the risk associated with your entire trip to know how your plan will respond.

When risk levels remain Level 1 or 2, all of your benefits are in force and applied according to the contract. This would include contracting COVID19 during your travel, or being delayed because of quarantine.

This information applies to all of our plans, single trip or annual, stand alone or packaged.

We always recommend that you read your travel policy booklet and check the Government of Canada website prior to any travel, especially when world conditions are changing rapidly.

For any pre-travel trip destination questions such as travel advisory, shots, visas or safety concerns, please contact Medi-Assist who have the most up to date information for your destination.

As always, our customer service representatives are here to help.

Vaccine recommendations for specific diseases will vary.  Individuals should check the Health Canada guidelines to understand if they are an acceptable candidate for immunization. Local Travel Immunization clinics are helpful sources of information. 

Children under the age of 18,   travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians   are covered when:

• They have been fully vaccinated according to the recommendations for their age; or
• There is no vaccine available for their age; or
• For children age 12 and under, regardless of vaccination recommendation.

Children of any age who are  travelling alone or with parents or guardians who have not been fully vaccinated  are only covered for COVID-19 or any other infectious disease if they have been fully vaccinated if there is a Government of Canada advisory in place at their destination related to that infectious disease.

If you are fully vaccinated, then the timing of the official advisory doesn’t apply.  You will be covered if it was before or after your purchase or departure.

If you are not vaccinated, you will be covered for an infectious disease if the advisory was called   before you depart .  If you choose to travel while the advisory is in place, you will not be covered for the infectious disease if you are not vaccinated, regardless of your reason.

Choose one of our Travel Insurance plans below to get started

Emergency Medical

Comprehensive, flexible emergency medical care coverage for British Columbians while travelling outside of BC.

Trip Protection

Peace of mind coverage for travel costs related to unexpected cancellations, interruptions and delays.

Visitors to Canada

Emergency health coverage for tourists, workers, new immigrants and students visiting BC.

Call us if an emergency strikes

If you do experience an unexpected emergency while travelling, we are here to help.

During your trip, you can call our   Medi-Assist   service to determine your level of coverage and receive help:

• In Canada or the U.S., call toll-free:   1-888-699-9333
• Outside of Canada or the U.S. or where toll-free is unavailable, please call collect to   1-604-419-4487   and we will pay for the call.

Claims Process

Out-of-Province Emergency Medical Claims  — Four simple steps

Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form — Form for claiming Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggage [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form — Form for claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract [pdf]

Government Advisory Levels

• Level 1: Exercise normal security precautions.
• Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution.
• Level 3: Avoid non-essential travel.
• Level 4: Avoid all travel.

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Travel insurance coverage

Brian, Edmonton, AB

Travel insurance

Courage to fly. Don’t let the hassle and risk of travel keep you from making connections that matter.

Have questions about travel?

Contents: Travel insurance

Emergency Medical Care

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption coverage

Visitors to Canada

• Top-Up insurance
• Cancellations and refunds
• Compare travel coverages

Flight Delay Service

Baggage loss coverage, accidental death and dismemberment, optional protection: pandemic, travel advisories.

• Travel insurance eligibility
• How to choose travel coverage
• Frequently asked questions
• Pre-travel checklist
• Comprehensive
• Travelling in Canada
• Study abroad
• Family vacations
• Weekend getaways
• Backpacking
• Winter escapes
• Romantic retreats

Travel policy

Make the most of your next adventure.

From dream vacations to routine trips, we have plans to get you where you need to go. While no one wants to think about what could go wrong, an illness, accident, lost baggage or a flight delay can happen. But when it does, Alberta Blue Cross ® travel insurance is there for you.

Features for every traveller

24/7 travel assistance.

No matter where you’re headed, Blue Cross Travel Assistance is with you. They can provide support in most major languages and help you find medical care, coordinate payment, get you home in the event of a medical emergency and more.

Savings for frequent flyers

Travelling more than once this year? Save on Emergency Medical Care coverage with a multi-trip plan. You make a premium payment once, and this covers you for all the trips you take within a year.

Enjoy Flight Delay Service with every plan at no extra cost. This exclusive benefit provides you access to an airport lounge for a delay of 3 hours or more and access to a hotel room for a delay of 6 hours or more.

Coverage to get you there

Trip Cancellation or Interruption

Top-Up Insurance

Coverage for unexpected injuries and illnesses

When it comes to medical treatment outside of Canada, the costs add up quickly. With Emergency Medical Care, you are covered for unexpected injuries and illnesses up to $5 million.

When trip disruptions or delays happen

Trip Cancellation or Interruption insurance reimburses you for prepaid non-refundable and non-transferable expenses, such as airfare or hotel deposits.

Protect your loved ones during their stay in Canada

Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you need coverage for yourself or for your visiting friends and family, we can help. Visitors to Canada covers you for medical emergencies during your stay.

Extend your existing coverage

Top-Up Insurance helps you stay covered for medical emergencies. It extends the period of coverage you already have through a personal plan, employer coverage or credit card.

Enhance your plan with travel add-ons

When you purchase Emergency Medical Care, Trip Cancellation or Interruption coverage, or Top-Up Insurance, you can enhance your plan with the following add-ons.

You arrived at your destination—but your suitcases didn’t. Baggage loss coverage can help you cover the cost of your items.

The pandemic continues to affect the way we travel. When you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to a pandemic, Optional Protection: Pandemic is there to help cover unexpected costs.

Serious, life-changing accidents can happen when you least expect it. Accidental Death and Dismemberment coverage can offer peace of mind and added protection.

Travel packages

Get complete coverage in a single package. Whether you’re taking a weekend getaway or flying south for the winter, we have options to suit your needs.

Travel resources

Advice and information to help make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Travel advice

Make your trip memorable for all the right reasons. Here’s what you can do to prepare before you leave.

Cancellation and refunds

We understand travel plans can change. If you need to cancel or change your plans, we're here help.

Travel advisories issued by the Government of Canada are the official source for destination-specific travel information. Get the latest information about entry requirements, weather concerns and travel warnings.

A travel policy contains important information about your plan’s coverage, exclusions that may apply and details about what to do during an emergency. If you already purchased a plan, it’s important to read and understand your travel policy before you leave.

The best travel insurance policies and providers

It's easy to dismiss the value of travel insurance until you need it.

Many travelers have strong opinions about whether you should buy travel insurance . However, the purpose of this post isn't to determine whether it's worth investing in. Instead, it compares some of the top travel insurance providers and policies so you can determine which travel insurance option is best for you.

Of course, as the coronavirus remains an ongoing concern, it's important to understand whether travel insurance covers pandemics. Some policies will cover you if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 and have proof of illness from a doctor. Others will take coverage a step further, covering additional types of pandemic-related expenses and cancellations.

Know, though, that every policy will have exclusions and restrictions that may limit coverage. For example, fear of travel is generally not a covered reason for invoking trip cancellation or interruption coverage, while specific stipulations may apply to elevated travel warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Interested in travel insurance? Visit InsureMyTrip.com to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs.

So, before buying a specific policy, you must understand the full terms and any special notices the insurer has about COVID-19. You may even want to buy the optional cancel for any reason add-on that's available for some comprehensive policies. While you'll pay more for that protection, it allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and still get some of your costs back. Note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has other eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

In this guide, we'll review several policies from top travel insurance providers so you have a better understanding of your options before picking the policy and provider that best address your wants and needs.

The best travel insurance providers

To put together this list of the best travel insurance providers, a number of details were considered: favorable ratings from TPG Lounge members, the availability of details about policies and the claims process online, positive online ratings and the ability to purchase policies in most U.S. states. You can also search for options from these (and other) providers through an insurance comparison site like InsureMyTrip .

When comparing insurance providers, I priced out a single-trip policy for each provider for a $2,000, one-week vacation to Istanbul . I used my actual age and state of residence when obtaining quotes. As a result, you may see a different price — or even additional policies due to regulations for travel insurance varying from state to state — when getting a quote.

AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard receives many positive reviews from readers in the TPG Lounge who have filed claims with the company. AIG offers three plans online, which you can compare side by side, and the ability to examine sample policies. Here are three plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

AIG Travel Guard also offers an annual travel plan. This plan is priced at $259 per year for one Florida resident.

Additionally, AIG Travel Guard offers several other policies, including a single-trip policy without trip cancellation protection . See AIG Travel Guard's COVID-19 notification and COVID-19 advisory for current details regarding COVID-19 coverage.

Preexisting conditions

Typically, AIG Travel Guard wouldn't cover you for any loss or expense due to a preexisting medical condition that existed within 180 days of the coverage effective date. However, AIG Travel Guard may waive the preexisting medical condition exclusion on some plans if you meet the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of your initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage you purchase equals all trip costs at the time of purchase. You must update your coverage to insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements that you add to your trip within 15 days of paying the travel supplier for these additional arrangements.
• You must be medically able to travel when you purchase your plan.

Standout features

• The Deluxe and Preferred plans allow you to purchase an upgrade that lets you cancel your trip for any reason. However, reimbursement under this coverage will not exceed 50% or 75% of your covered trip cost.
• You can include one child (age 17 and younger) with each paying adult for no additional cost on most single-trip plans.
• Other optional upgrades, including an adventure sports bundle, a baggage bundle, an inconvenience bundle, a pet bundle, a security bundle and a wedding bundle, are available on some policies. So, an AIG Travel Guard plan may be a good choice if you know you want extra coverage in specific areas.

Purchase your policy here: AIG Travel Guard .

Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz is one of the most highly regarded providers in the TPG Lounge, and many readers found the claim process reasonable. Allianz offers many plans, including the following single-trip plans for my sample trip to Turkey.

If you travel frequently, it may make sense to purchase an annual multi-trip policy. For this plan, all of the maximum coverage amounts in the table below are per trip (except for the trip cancellation and trip interruption amounts, which are an aggregate limit per policy). Trips typically must last no more than 45 days, although some plans may cover trips of up to 90 days.

See Allianz's coverage alert for current information on COVID-19 coverage.

Most Allianz travel insurance plans may cover preexisting medical conditions if you meet particular requirements. For the OneTrip Premier, Prime and Basic plans, the requirements are as follows:

• You purchased the policy within 14 days of the date of the first trip payment or deposit.
• You were a U.S. resident when you purchased the policy.
• You were medically able to travel when you purchased the policy.
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the total, nonrefundable cost of your trip (including arrangements that will become nonrefundable or subject to cancellation penalties before your departure date). If you incur additional nonrefundable trip expenses after purchasing this policy, you must insure them within 14 days of their purchase.
• Allianz offers reasonably priced annual policies for independent travelers and families who take multiple trips lasting up to 45 days (or 90 days for select plans) per year.
• Some Allianz plans provide the option of receiving a flat reimbursement amount without receipts for trip delay and baggage delay claims. Of course, you can also submit receipts to get up to the maximum refund.
• For emergency transportation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Allianz, and Allianz must then make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, most Allianz policies provide an option if you cannot contact the company: Allianz will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Allianz Travel Insurance .

American Express Travel Insurance

American Express Travel Insurance offers four different package plans and a build-your-own coverage option. You don't have to be an American Express cardholder to purchase this insurance. Here are the four package options for my sample weeklong trip to Turkey. Unlike some other providers, Amex won't ask for your travel destination on the initial quote (but will when you purchase the plan).

Amex's build-your-own coverage plan is unique because you can purchase just the coverage you need. For most types of protection, you can even select the coverage amount that works best for you.

The prices for the packages and the build-your-own plan don't increase for longer trips — as long as the trip cost remains constant. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit is only available for your first 60 days of travel.

Typically, Amex won't cover any loss you incur because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. However, Amex may waive its preexisting-condition exclusion if you meet both of the following requirements:

• You must be medically able to travel at the time you pay the policy premium.
• You pay the policy premium within 14 days of making the first covered trip deposit.
• Amex's build-your-own coverage option allows you to only purchase — and pay for — the coverage you need.
• Coverage on long trips doesn't cost more than coverage for short trips, making this policy ideal for extended getaways. However, the emergency medical and dental benefit only covers your first 60 days of travel.
• American Express Travel Insurance can protect travel expenses you purchase with Amex Membership Rewards points in the Pay with Points program (as well as travel expenses bought with cash, debit or credit). However, travel expenses bought with other types of points and miles aren't covered.

Purchase your policy here: American Express Travel Insurance .

GeoBlue is different from most other providers described in this piece because it only provides medical coverage while you're traveling internationally and does not offer benefits to protect the cost of your trip. There are many different policies. Some require you to have primary health insurance in the U.S. (although it doesn't need to be provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield), but all of them only offer coverage while traveling outside the U.S.

Two single-trip plans are available if you're traveling for six months or less. The Voyager Choice policy provides coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger and already have a U.S. health insurance policy.

The Voyager Essential policy provides coverage (including medical evacuation for a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition) for trips outside the U.S. to travelers who are 95 or younger, regardless of whether they have primary health insurance.

In addition to these options, two multi-trip plans cover trips of up to 70 days each for one year. Both policies provide coverage (including medical services and medical evacuation for preexisting conditions) to travelers with primary health insurance.

Be sure to check out GeoBlue's COVID-19 notices before buying a plan.

Most GeoBlue policies explicitly cover sudden recurrences of preexisting conditions for medical services and medical evacuation.

• GeoBlue can be an excellent option if you're mainly concerned about the medical side of travel insurance.
• GeoBlue provides single-trip, multi-trip and long-term medical travel insurance policies for many different types of travel.

Purchase your policy here: GeoBlue .

IMG offers various travel medical insurance policies for travelers, as well as comprehensive travel insurance policies. For a single trip of 90 days or less, there are five policy types available for vacation or holiday travelers. Although you must enter your gender, males and females received the same quote for my one-week search.

You can purchase an annual multi-trip travel medical insurance plan. Some only cover trips lasting up to 30 or 45 days, but others provide coverage for longer trips.

See IMG's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Most plans may cover preexisting conditions under set parameters or up to specific amounts. For example, the iTravelInsured Travel LX travel insurance plan shown above may cover preexisting conditions if you purchase the insurance within 24 hours of making the final payment for your trip.

For the travel medical insurance plans shown above, preexisting conditions are covered for travelers younger than 70. However, coverage is capped based on your age and whether you have a primary health insurance policy.

• Some annual multi-trip plans are modestly priced.
• iTravelInsured Travel LX may offer optional cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason coverage, if eligible.

Purchase your policy here: IMG .

Travelex Insurance

Travelex offers three single-trip plans: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. However, only the Travel Basic and Travel Select plans would be applicable for my trip to Turkey.

See Travelex's COVID-19 coverage statement for coronavirus-specific information.

Typically, Travelex won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition that existed within 60 days of the coverage effective date. However, the Travel Select plan may offer a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, the insured traveler must meet all the following conditions:

• You purchase the plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
• The amount of coverage purchased equals all prepaid, nonrefundable payments or deposits applicable to the trip at the time of purchase. Additionally, you must insure the costs of any subsequent arrangements added to the same trip within 15 days of payment or deposit.
• All insured individuals are medically able to travel when they pay the plan cost.
• The trip cost does not exceed the maximum trip cost limit under trip cancellation as shown in the schedule per person (only applicable to trip cancellation, interruption and delay).
• Travelex's Travel Select policy can cover trips lasting up to 364 days, which is longer than many single-trip policies.
• Neither Travelex policy requires receipts for trip and baggage delay expenses less than $25.
• For emergency evacuation coverage, you or someone on your behalf must contact Travelex and have Travelex make all transportation arrangements in advance. However, both Travelex policies provide an option if you cannot contact Travelex: Travelex will pay up to what it would have paid if it had made the arrangements.

Purchase your policy here: Travelex Insurance .

Seven Corners

Seven Corners offers a wide variety of policies. Here are the policies that are most applicable to travelers on a single international trip.

Seven Corners also offers many other types of travel insurance, including an annual multi-trip plan. You can choose coverage for trips of up to 30, 45 or 60 days when purchasing an annual multi-trip plan.

See Seven Corner's page on COVID-19 for additional policy information as it relates to coronavirus-related claims.

Typically, Seven Corners won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition. However, the RoundTrip Choice plan offers a preexisting condition exclusion waiver. To be eligible for this waiver, you must meet all of the following conditions:

• You buy this plan within 20 days of making your initial trip payment or deposit.
• You or your travel companion are medically able and not disabled from travel when you pay for this plan or upgrade your plan.
• You update the coverage to include the additional cost of subsequent travel arrangements within 15 days of paying your travel supplier for them.
• Seven Corners offers the ability to purchase optional sports and golf equipment coverage. If purchased, this extra insurance will reimburse you for the cost of renting sports or golf equipment if yours is lost, stolen, damaged or delayed by a common carrier for six or more hours. However, Seven Corners must authorize the expenses in advance.
• You can add cancel for any reason coverage or trip interruption for any reason coverage to RoundTrip plans. Although some other providers offer cancel for any reason coverage, trip interruption for any reason coverage is less common.
• Seven Corners' RoundTrip Choice policy offers a political or security evacuation benefit that will transport you to the nearest safe place or your residence under specific conditions. You can also add optional event ticket registration fee protection to the RoundTrip Choice policy.

Purchase your policy here: Seven Corners .

World Nomads

World Nomads is popular with younger, active travelers because of its flexibility and adventure-activities coverage on the Explorer plan. Unlike many policies offered by other providers, you don't need to estimate prepaid costs when purchasing the insurance to have access to trip interruption and cancellation insurance.

World Nomads offers two single-trip plans.

World Nomads has a page dedicated to coronavirus coverage , so be sure to view it before buying a policy.

World Nomads won't cover losses incurred because of a preexisting medical condition (except emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains) that existed within 90 days of the coverage effective date. Unlike many other providers, World Nomads doesn't offer a waiver.

• World Nomads' policies cover more adventure sports than most providers, so activities such as bungee jumping are included. The Explorer policy covers almost any adventure sport, including skydiving, stunt flying and caving. So, if you partake in adventure sports while traveling, the Explorer policy may be a good fit.
• World Nomads' policies provide nonmedical evacuation coverage for transportation expenses if there is civil or political unrest in the country you are visiting. The coverage may also transport you home if there is an eligible natural disaster or a government expels you.

Purchase your policy here: World Nomads .

Other options for buying travel insurance

This guide details the policies of eight providers with the information available at the time of publication. There are many options when it comes to travel insurance, though. To compare different policies quickly, you can use a travel insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to search. Just note that these search engines won't show every policy and every provider, and you should still research the provided policies to ensure the coverage fits your trip and needs.

You can also purchase a plan through various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA or Costco. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so if you are a member of any of these associations, you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for your trip.

Related: Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Is travel insurance worth getting?

Whether you should purchase travel insurance is a personal decision. Suppose you use a credit card that provides travel insurance for most of your expenses and have medical insurance that provides adequate coverage abroad. In that case, you may be covered enough on most trips to forgo purchasing travel insurance.

However, suppose your medical insurance won't cover you at your destination and you can't comfortably cover a sizable medical evacuation bill or last-minute flight home . In that case, you should consider purchasing travel insurance. If you travel frequently, buying an annual multi-trip policy may be worth it.

What is the best COVID-19 travel insurance?

There are various aspects to keep in mind in the age of COVID-19. Consider booking travel plans that are fully refundable or have modest change or cancellation fees so you don't need to worry about whether your policy will cover trip cancellation. This is important since many standard comprehensive insurance policies won't reimburse your insured expenses in the event of cancellation if it's related to the fear of traveling due to COVID-19.

However, if you book a nonrefundable trip and want to maintain the ability to get reimbursed (up to 75% of your insured costs) if you choose to cancel, you should consider buying a comprehensive travel insurance policy and then adding optional cancel for any reason protection. Just note that this benefit is time-sensitive and has eligibility requirements, so not all travelers will qualify.

Providers will often require CFAR purchasers insure the entire dollar amount of their travels to receive the coverage. Also, many CFAR policies mandate that you must cancel your plans and notify all travel suppliers at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

Likewise, if your primary health insurance won't cover you while on your trip, it's essential to consider whether medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment are covered. You may also want to consider a MedJet medical transport membership if your trip is to a covered destination for coronavirus-related evacuation.

Ultimately, the best pandemic travel insurance policy will depend on your trip details, travel concerns and your willingness to self-insure. Just be sure to thoroughly read and understand any terms or exclusions before purchasing.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

Whether you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy or rely on the protections offered by select credit cards, you may have access to the following types of coverage:

• Baggage delay protection may reimburse for essential items and clothing when a common carrier (such as an airline) fails to deliver your checked bag within a set time of your arrival at a destination. Typically, you may be reimbursed up to a particular amount per incident or per day.
• Lost/damaged baggage protection may provide reimbursement to replace lost or damaged luggage and items inside that luggage. However, valuables and electronics usually have a relatively low maximum benefit.
• Trip delay reimbursement may provide reimbursement for necessary items, food, lodging and sometimes transportation when you're delayed for a substantial time while traveling on a common carrier such as an airline. This insurance may be beneficial if weather issues (or other covered reasons for which the airline usually won't provide compensation) delay you.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection may provide reimbursement if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as a death in your family or jury duty.
• Medical evacuation insurance can arrange and pay for medical evacuation if deemed necessary by the insurance provider and a medical professional. This coverage can be particularly valuable if you're traveling to a region with subpar medical facilities.
• Travel accident insurance may provide a payment to you or your beneficiary in the case of your death or dismemberment.
• Emergency medical insurance may provide payment or reimburse you if you must seek medical care while traveling. Some plans only cover emergency medical care, but some also cover other types of medical care. You may need to pay a deductible or copay.
• Rental car coverage may provide a collision damage waiver when renting a car. This waiver may reimburse for collision damage or theft up to a set amount. Some policies also cover loss-of-use charges assessed by the rental company and towing charges to take the vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility. You generally need to decline the rental company's collision damage waiver or similar provision to be covered.

Should I buy travel health insurance?

If you purchase travel with credit cards that provide various trip protections, you may not see much need for additional travel insurance. However, you may still wonder whether you should buy travel medical insurance.

If your primary health insurance covers you on your trip, you may not need travel health insurance. Your domestic policy may not cover you outside the U.S., though, so it's worth calling the number on your health insurance card if you have coverage questions. If your primary health insurance wouldn't cover you, it's likely worth purchasing travel medical insurance. After all, as you can see above, travel medical insurance is often very modestly priced.

How much does travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance costs depend on various factors, including the provider, the type of coverage, your trip cost, your destination, your age, your residency and how many travelers you want to insure. That said, a standard travel insurance plan will generally set you back somewhere between 4% and 10% of your total trip cost. However, this can get lower for more basic protections or become even higher if you include add-ons like cancel for any reason protection.

The best way to determine how much travel insurance will cost is to price out your trip with a few providers discussed in the guide. Or, visit an insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip to quickly compare options across multiple providers.

When and how to get travel insurance

For the most robust selection of available travel insurance benefits — including time-sensitive add-ons like CFAR protection and waivers of preexisting conditions for eligible travelers — you should ideally purchase travel insurance on the same day you make your first payment toward your trip.

However, many plans may still offer a preexisting conditions waiver for those who qualify if you buy your travel insurance within 14 to 21 days of your first trip expense or deposit (this time frame may vary by provider). If you don't need a preexisting conditions waiver or aren't interested in CFAR coverage, you can purchase travel insurance once your departure date nears.

You must purchase coverage before it's needed. Some travel medical plans are available for purchase after you have departed, but comprehensive plans that include medical coverage must be purchased before departing.

Additionally, you can't buy any medical coverage once you require medical attention. The same applies to all travel insurance coverage. Once you recognize the need, it's too late to protect your trip.

Once you've shopped around and decided upon the best travel insurance plan for your trip, you should be able to complete your purchase online. You'll usually be able to download your insurance card and the complete policy shortly after the transaction is complete.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Bottom line

Not all travel insurance policies and providers are equal. Before buying a plan, read and understand the policy documents. By doing so, you can choose a plan that's appropriate for you and your trip — including the features that matter most to you.

For example, if you plan to go skiing or rock climbing, make sure the policy you buy doesn't contain exclusions for these activities. Likewise, if you're making two back-to-back trips during which you'll be returning home for a short time in between, be sure the plan doesn't terminate coverage at the end of your first trip.

If you're looking to cover a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition, select a policy with a preexisting condition waiver and fulfill the requirements for the waiver. After all, buying insurance won't help if your policy doesn't cover your losses.

Disclaimer : This information is provided by IMT Services, LLC ( InsureMyTrip.com ), a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 5119217) and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. IMT's services are only available in states where it is licensed to do business and the products provided through InsureMyTrip.com may not be available in all states. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not create or modify any insurance policy terms in any way. For more information, please visit www.insuremytrip.com .

Best overall

• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Best Travel Insurance of 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.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Best Travel Insurance

• Best Overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance
• Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

How we rate travel insurance »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance runner-up

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for cruises

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 is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review here.

Best travel insurance for reputation

Covers up to 100% of trip cancellation costs, a minimum of up to $750 in luggage losses, and 24/7 worldwide travel insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers up to 100% trip cancellation refund for eligible travel
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Plans are customizable with relevant add-ons
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good customer service and easy sign up according to traveler reviews
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. More affordable plans offer low caps on medical and emergency coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums are on the expensive side relative to comparable competitor plans
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims may take longer during peak travel seasons

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is one of the leading insurance brands on the market. It offers several plans with key add-ons for travelers.

• This provider underwrites travel insurance policies for a number of other companies in addition to offering its own plans
• Travelers can file claims directly from a smartphone by using the BHTP app

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection  helps travelers make the best of bad situations by simplifying the process of filing a claim down to a simple photo snap and some basic paperwork submitted directly through a dedicated app.

Approved claims are also paid out very rapidly, making it easier to carry through with a trip when luggage has been lost or alternative travel plans need to be made on the fly.

Read our Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for digital nomads

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for affordability

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance  that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

Best travel insurance for road trips

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the US, but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the US for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about the financial aspect of receiving medical care while traveling , even in the most remote corners of the globe.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away.

Choosing Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the US Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

While coverage varies by policy, common exclusions often include pre-existing medical conditions (unless you have purchased a waiver), accidents caused by high-risk activities if not specifically covered (e.g., skydiving, scuba diving), travel for medical procedures, and events known before purchasing the policy (e.g., traveling during a pandemic). Always read your policy carefully to understand the exclusions.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

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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7 Best Cheap 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 .

Finding the cheapest travel insurance is often a priority for travelers hoping to protect themselves and their finances while away from home.

But is it better to err on the side of affordable travel insurance or opt for a more comprehensive plan? That depends on your needs .

On average, a comprehensive plan that covers some combination of trip cancellation and interruption costs, medical coverage and baggage protection (and perhaps a number of other things) will cost you 5%-10% of what you paid for the trip, according to NerdWallet partner Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace.

That means a comprehensive policy for a trip that costs you $3,000 could run you anywhere between $150 and $300. Factors like the cost and length of your trip, the age of the travelers and how much protection you want can significantly influence what you pay for your plan.

Ultimately, Squaremouth recommends “the least expensive policy that offers the coverage [travelers] need.”

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Factors we considered when picking cheap travel insurance plans

We considered a few factors as we looked for the most affordable travel insurance plans.

Price: If your goal is to find cheaper travel insurance, you want the price to be affordable.

Breadth of coverage: The best budget travel insurance is typically going to be a plan that offers a wide range of protections at an affordable cost, ensuring you’re protected with at least some coverage for a wide range of scenarios.

Uniqueness or customizability : While many travel insurance plans have similar protections, some stand out for particular coverage that can be helpful to certain travelers, like those needing to Cancel For Any Reason , those going on a cruise, or travelers with preexisting health conditions. We didn’t spring for the priciest plans with broad, deep coverage; instead, we picked those that meet a sort of budget "sweet spot" when it comes to cost efficiency.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth getting?

An overview of the best cheap travel insurance plans

We looked at travel insurance quotes for a hypothetical 10-day trip to Italy in October 2023. The traveler is a 40-year-old man living in North Carolina who spent $2,000 on the trip, including airfare.

Reliable but cheap travel insurance providers

1. axa assistance usa (silver plan: $70).

Why we picked it:

The $500 missed connection benefit is great for cruise and tour participants. It covers additional transportation, accommodations and meal costs when you miss a cruise or tour departure.

Full trip cancellation and interruption coverage, along with up to $25,000 for out-of-pocket medical costs and baggage coverage.

Among the lowest prices we found.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more than AXA's $70 Silver plan, a Gold plan only costs $19 more and gets you deeper coverage amounts and up to $35,000 in collision rental car insurance.

2. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (ExactCare Value plan: $56)

Cheapest plan we found while still offering a wide array of protections.

Includes a preexisting medical condition waiver.

Add-on rental car collision coverage optional for $10 per day. You can pick how many days you want the additional coverage — it’s not all or nothing.

At $56, this plan comes in at less than 3% of the $2,000 trip cost.

3. IMG (iTravelInsured Lite plan: $77)

Treats COVID-19 like any other illness, which is to say, if your claim accepts flu, strep throat or appendicitis as an acceptable, covered condition, the coronavirus is, too.

Covers costs related to trip interruption up to 125% 

Higher than normal limits on dental expenses, at $1,000. If your teeth are your Achilles heel (or your biggest fear), this plan might be for you.

The iTravelInsured Lite plan doesn’t offer some of the bells and whistles that other plans do, like rental car coverage , Cancel For Any Reason coverage or waivers for pre-existing conditions. But you’ll have relatively solid across-the-board trip protections.

4. John Hancock (Silver plan: $93 for a mid-tier plan)

Mid-level plan (as opposed to a basic plan) at an affordable price for travelers who want more coverage without paying too much.

Includes an optional Cancel For Any Reason add-on for travelers wanting flexibility. It is a bit pricey, at half the cost of the insurance ($46.50 extra for a $93 plan).

Reimburses up to $1,000 for lost baggage , far more than many basic plans.

Add-on rental car coverage for $9 per day.

At $88, John Hancock’s basic (Bronze) plan isn’t particularly affordable. But for just $4 extra, you can tap into the benefits of a mid-tier plan at still less than 5% of the total trip cost.

5. Nationwide (Essential plan: $76)

Includes a preexisting conditions waiver.

Add-on rental car coverage for $90. 

Covers trip interruption at 125% of the trip cost while providing comprehensive emergency medical and baggage coverage.

6. Seven Corners (Basic plan: $75)

On top of standard trip protections, it includes a relatively affordable Cancel For Any Reason option for $31.50 extra.

If you plan to rent expensive sporting equipment, you might consider paying $10 extra to cover lost, damaged, stolen or destroyed gear.

COVID-19 coverage reimburses you for costs incurred if you have to quarantine .

Rental car coverage comes in at an affordable $7 per day.

Seven Corners’ Basic plan stands out because it offers a little bit of everything, appealing to athletic travelers, those who need affordable trip protections, those who want the flexibility to cancel for any reason and those still concerned about getting quarantined due to COVID-19.

7. Travelex Insurance Services (Basic plan: $71)

Straightforward: What you see is what you get. This plan’s coverage has fewer rules and caveats than many. 

While not sporting the highest coverage amounts, it offers a solid range of protections to ensure you get at least something back when your travel is disrupted or you have a medical emergency.

Offers add-on rental car coverage for $10 per day.

At $71, the Travelex Basic plan’s cost is just over 3% of the $2,000 trip’s cost.

If you want to get travel insurance at the cheapest possible rate, here’s a trick. Put $0 as your trip cost, Stan Stanberg, co-founder of comparison site Travelinsurance.com said in an email.

“When excluding trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage the cost of a travel insurance plan goes down significantly,” Stanberg said.

That means you won’t get reimbursed if you need to cancel your trip or if it gets interrupted. But you may still have access to the plan’s medical, trip delay , missed connection, baggage and other protections.

You’ll often find comprehensive travel insurance plans cost 5%-10% of your total trip cost, according to Squaremouth. This will often get you full trip cancellation and trip protection, baggage protection, emergency medical coverage and often other benefits.

Typically, the more you pay, the broader and deeper the coverage.

For many plans, you can purchase travel insurance up until you depart. However, to get access to the most protections possible, booking two days to two weeks after making your initial deposit is the best rule of thumb.

That means you won’t get reimbursed if you need to cancel your trip or if it gets interrupted. But you may still have access to the plan’s medical,

, missed connection, baggage and other protections.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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

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

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Best travel insurance plans for 2024: a unique and comprehensive list for travelers from international citizens insurance.

Including the Best Plans for Seniors, Global Nomads, Visitors to the USA, Pets, Adventure Sports Addicts and More

BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 2, 2024 / International Citizens Insurance, a leading international insurance broker, has announced the best travel insurance plans for 2024 summer travel. As the cost of airfare and hotels continues to rise along with the increase in flight delays and cruise cancellations, this list could not have come at a better time for travelers looking to protect their travel plans and their finances.

"This summer's travel season promises a high level of demand, increasing costs, and a strong potential for travel disruptions due to political unrest, weather, and other factors," said Joe Cronin, President of International Citizens Insurance. "Our clients want travel insurance they can trust to help them if they suffer a cancellation, a medical emergency, lost luggage, a natural disaster, or have to change plans due to unforeseen events. With this list, they will be able to find the best overall travel insurers as well as the right plans for their individual needs."

International Citizens Insurance judged each company and plan on six key criteria: the user-friendliness of their site, the ease of policy purchase, the number of countries plans are offered in, how extensive the benefits are, the ease of making a claim and the quality of the company's customer service. The most trusted insurers include WorldTrips , who made history as one of the first insurers to offer plans for purchase over the internet; GeoBlue Travel Insurance , which supports seniors with coverage for people up to 84 years old; and Trawick International, which offers coverage for over 500 adventure sports activities.

To help customers find the best insurance for their specific needs, International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best insurance for several use cases, including Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, travel medical plans, and insurance with coverage for pets. International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best plans for clients with special needs, including seniors, missionaries and volunteers, U.S. citizens abroad, and digital nomads.

In today's unpredictable world, travel insurance has become the most essential accessory for any international traveler. Travelers want trip cancellation insurance to protect their trip and travel medical insurance plans to protect their health. But with so many companies out there, which ones can you trust?

Learn more about the best travel insurance companies at https://www.internationalinsurance.com/travel-insurance/best-companies.php .

About International Citizens Insurance

International Citizens Insurance is the insurance division of International Citizens Group. We provide educational content, reviews, and unique comparison engines that enable travelers and expatriates to research, quote, compare, and purchase global life, travel, and international health insurance from various carriers.

Contact Information

Joe Cronin President [email protected] 617-500-6738

Andrew Blomberg Vice President, Global Group Benefits [email protected] (339) 221-5190

SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance

View the original press release on newswire.com.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan names Tricia Keith as next CEO

Michigan’s largest health insurance company has named its next leader.

Tricia A. Keith has been appointed to become president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan effective Jan. 1, 2025, the company's board said Wednesday. She will replace longtime CEO Daniel Loepp, who is retiring at the end of the year.

"I’m extremely pleased for our company, our members and customers that Tricia will be leading BCBSM into the future," Loepp wrote in a post on the company's website Wednesday. "Tricia’s boundless energy, deep knowledge of our company and stakeholders, and experience as a leader will be her strengths as our organization addresses the rapid changes happening in health care."

Keith has been the company's president of emerging markets since 2020. When she becomes CEO in January, she will be the first female to hold the position in the 85-year-old company’s history.

“There are powerful forces of change impacting health care at this moment — technology, drug and medical cost growth, industry consolidation and others,” Keith said in a statement Wednesday.  “The role that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan plays as a champion of our members’ health, and the affordability of their coverage and care, puts enormous responsibility on the shoulders of our company’s CEO.  I am humbled by the Board’s confidence, and I’m excited and honored to assume this responsibility in January.”

The announcement comes eight months after Loepp said he would retire at the end of 2024, giving the company a transition period to hire a new leader.

“After a six-month search, and thoughtful consideration of highly qualified candidates, the Board is proud to appoint Tricia Keith to serve as our company’s next president and CEO,” Gregory A. Sudderth, chairman of the BCBSM board, said in a statement. “No one is more ready to lead our great company into the future. Tricia Keith is a Michigan native, whose depth of knowledge and experience, her broad and accomplished track record of executive leadership, and abiding commitment to Blue Cross’ mission make her the clear choice to take our company forward in service to our members and communities.”

When Loepp retires, it will end a 19-year run as the company’s CEO. He joined Blue Cross in 2000 as the insurer's top lobbyist in Lansing.

In his post Wednesday, Loepp said that Keith has been at the forefront of the insurance company's diversification strategy.

"She led the dramatic growth of our Emerging Markets division — totaling $22 billion in annual revenue — and helped our non-health lines of business flourish nationally," Leopp wrote. "When I became CEO in 2005, our workers’ compensation subsidiary, AF Group, generated $600 million in annual premium. Today, it operates in 50 states and generates $3 billion in annual premium."

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First Patient Begins Newly Approved Sickle Cell Gene Therapy

A 12-year-old boy in the Washington, D.C., area faces months of procedures to remedy his disease. “I want to be cured,” he said.

By Gina Kolata

Photographs by Kenny Holston

Gina Kolata visited Kendric and his parents at the hospital in Washington, D.C., when he was having his stem cells extracted

On Wednesday, Kendric Cromer, a 12-year-old boy from a suburb of Washington, became the first person in the world with sickle cell disease to begin a commercially approved gene therapy that may cure the condition.

For the estimated 20,000 people with sickle cell in the United States who qualify for the treatment, the start of Kendric’s monthslong medical journey may offer hope. But it also signals the difficulties patients face as they seek a pair of new sickle cell treatments.

For a lucky few, like Kendric, the treatment could make possible lives they have longed for. A solemn and shy adolescent, he had learned that ordinary activities — riding a bike, going outside on a cold day, playing soccer — could bring on episodes of searing pain.

“Sickle cell always steals my dreams and interrupts all the things I want to do,” he said. Now he feels as if he has a chance for a normal life.

Near the end of last year, the Food and Drug Administration gave two companies authorization to sell gene therapy to people with sickle cell disease — a genetic disorder of red blood cells that causes debilitating pain and other medical problems. An estimated 100,000 people in the United States have sickle cell, most of them Black. People are born with the disease when they inherit the mutated gene for the condition from each parent.

The treatment helped patients in clinical trials , but Kendric is the first commercial patient for Bluebird Bio, a Somerville, Mass., company. Another company, Vertex Pharmaceuticals of Boston, declined to say if it had started treatment for any patients with its approved CRISPR gene-editing-based remedy .

Kendric — whose family’s health insurance agreed to cover the procedure — began his treatment at Children’s National Hospital in Washington. Wednesday’s treatment was only the first step. Doctors removed his bone marrow stem cells, which Bluebird will then genetically modify in a specialized lab for his treatment.

That will take months. But before it begins, Bluebird needs hundreds of millions of stem cells from Kendric, and if the first collection — taking six to eight hours — is not sufficient, the company will try once or twice more.

If it still doesn’t have enough, Kendric will have to spend another month in preparation for another stem cell extraction.

The whole process is so involved and time-consuming that Bluebird estimates it can treat the cells of only 85 to 105 patients each year — and that includes not just sickle cell patients, but also patients with a much rarer disease — beta thalassemia — who can receive a similar gene therapy.

Medical centers also have the capacity to handle only a limited number of gene therapy patients. Each person needs expert and intensive care. After a patient’s stem cells have been treated, the patient has to stay in the hospital for a month. For most of that time, patients are severely ill from powerful chemotherapy.

Children’s National can accept only about 10 gene therapy patients a year.

“This is a big effort,” said Dr. David Jacobsohn, chief of the medical center’s division of blood and marrow transplantation.

Top of the Waiting List

Last week, Kendric came prepared for the stem cell collection — he has spent many weeks in this hospital being treated for pain so severe that on his last visit, even morphine and oxycodone could not control it. He brought his special pillow with a Snoopy pillowcase that his grandmother gave him and his special Spider-Man blanket. And he had a goal.

“I want to be cured,” he said.

Bone marrow stem cells, the source of all the body’s red and white blood cells, are normally nestled in a person’s bone marrow. But Kendric’s doctors infused him with a drug, plerixafor, which pried them loose and let them float in his circulatory system.

To isolate the stem cells, staff members at the hospital inserted a catheter into a vein in Kendric’s chest and attached it to an apheresis machine, a boxlike device next to his hospital bed. It spins blood, separating it into layers — a plasma layer, a red cell layer and a stem cell layer.

Once enough stem cells have been gathered, they will be sent to Bluebird’s lab in Allendale, N.J., where technicians will add a healthy hemoglobin gene to correct the mutated ones that are causing his sickle cell disease.

They will send the modified cells back three months later. The goal is to give Kendric red blood cells that will not turn into fragile crescent shapes and get caught in his blood vessels and organs.

Although it takes just a couple of days to add a new gene to stem cells, it takes weeks to complete tests for purity, potency and safety. Technicians have to grow the cells in the lab before doing these tests.

Bluebird lists a price of $3.1 million for its gene therapy, called Lyfgenia. It’s one of the highest prices ever for a treatment.

Despite the astronomical price and the grueling process , medical centers have waiting lists of patients hoping for relief from a disease that can cause strokes, organ damage, bone damage, episodes of agonizing pain and shortened lives.

At Children’s National, Dr. Jacobsohn said at least 20 patients were eligible and interested. The choice of who would go first came down to who was sickest, and whose insurance came through.

Kendric qualified on both counts. But even though his insurance was quick to approve the treatment, the insurance payments are only part of what it will cost his family.

Chances and Hopes

Deborah Cromer, a realtor, and her husband, Keith, who works in law enforcement for the federal government, had no idea they might have a child with sickle cell.

They found out only when Deborah was pregnant with Kendric. Tests showed that their baby would have a one-in-four chance of inheriting the mutated gene from each parent and having sickle cell disease. They could terminate the pregnancy or take a chance.

They decided to take a chance.

The news that Kendric had sickle cell was devastating.

He had his first crisis when he was 3. Sickled blood cells had become trapped in his legs and feet. Their baby was inconsolable, in such pain that Deborah couldn’t even touch him.

She and Keith took him to Children’s National.

“Little did we know that that was our introduction to many many E.R. visits,” Deborah said.

The pain crises became more and more severe. It seemed as though anything could set them off — 10 minutes of playing volleyball, a dip in a swimming pool. And when they occurred, Kendric sometimes needed five days to a week of treatment in the hospital to control his pain.

His parents always stayed with him. Deborah slept on a narrow bench in the hospital room. Keith slept in a chair.

“We’d never dream of leaving him,” Deborah said.

Eventually the disease began wreaking severe damage. Kendric developed avascular necrosis in his hips — bone death that occurs when bone is deprived of blood. The condition spread to his back and shoulders. He began taking a large daily dose of gabapentin, a medicine for nerve pain.

His pain never let up. One day he said to Deborah, “Mommy, I’m in pain every single day.”

Kendric wants to be like other kids, but fear of pain crises has held him back. He became increasingly sedentary, spending his days on his iPad, watching anime or building elaborate Lego structures.

Despite his many absences, Kendric kept up in school, maintaining an A average.

Deborah and Keith began to hope for gene therapy. But when they found out what it would cost, they lost some of their hope.

But their insurer approved the treatment in a few weeks, they said.

Now it has begun.

“We always prayed this day would come,” Deborah said. But, she added, “We’re nervous reading through the consents and what he will have to go through.”

Kendric, though, is looking forward to the future. He wants to be a geneticist.

And, he said, “I want to play basketball.”

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of a lab. It is in Allendale, N.J., not Allentown.

How we handle corrections

Gina Kolata reports on diseases and treatments, how treatments are discovered and tested, and how they affect people. More about Gina Kolata

Kenny Holston is a Times photographer based in Washington, primarily covering Congress, the military and the White House. More about Kenny Holston

Massive Blue Cross Blue Shield expansion notches win for office sector

Will occupy almost entire building in Southwest Houston in 11-year lease, which is part of its growth strategy

One of Texas’ largest health insurance providers is expanding its Houston footprint in a win for an office market that’s still reeling from the pandemic.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas has signed an 11-year lease to occupy almost the entire 134,700-square-foot building at 8101 West Sam Houston Parkway South, in southwest Houston, the Houston Business Journal reported . The building, called West Belt Office Center I, is owned by an entity of Denver-based Sagard Real Estate, according to public records.

The lease, totaling 132,000 square feet, will undergo renovations by Houston-based Harvey Builders, with completion expected by next January. It will feature an on-site café, a large employee training room and a multipurpose room. 

“We are advancing our strategy to expand into neighborhoods where we can benefit from the skilled workforce in those communities and drive economic growth,” a Blue Cross spokesperson told the outlet.

The company stressed commitment to local job creation, although specific numbers were not disclosed. 

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Blue Cross’ decision to expand its Houston footprint bodes well for an office sector that’s grappling with high vacancies and plummeting property values amid remote-work trends and spiked interest rates. Office leasing activity hit a five-year low in the fourth quarter of last year, falling by 35 percent from the previous quarter and 12 percent year-over-year. 

Years of poor performance in the office sector has caused distress to mount. As of last summer, nearly 1,300 commercial properties in the Houston area were backed with CMBS loans totaling $5.9 billion, all of which are set to mature within 18 months. Just 68 office properties in the region accounted for $2 billion of that debt.

Meanwhile, the 8101 West Sam building marks Blue Cross’ 17th location in Texas. The company’s first Houston office, located at 1800 West Loop Freeway South, will continue operations as normal. 

Blue Cross ranks as the top accident and health insurer in the state, with a 24.5 percent market share, the outlet report. 

—Quinn Donoghue 

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