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Learn about CDC’s Traveler Genomic Surveillance Program that detects new COVID-19 variants entering the country.  

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See the full list of  Travel Health Notices , including:

Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024
• Diphtheria in Guinea April 23, 2024
• Chikungunya in Timor-Leste April 05, 2024

Level 1 - Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024
• Updated   Oropouche Fever in South America April 24, 2024
• Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024

There are no Warning , Alert, Watch, COVID-19 Very High, COVID-19 High, COVID-19 Moderate, COVID-19 Low, COVID-19 Unknown, Level 4, or Level 3 notices currently in effect.

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For Travelers

Apply for a U.S. passport, check wait times, information on crossing U.S. borders, file a travel complaint (DHS TRIP), find overseas travel alerts, join frequent traveler programs, learn what you can bring on a plane, locate a port of entry (air, land, or sea), travel overseas, and visit the United States.

Apply for a U.S. Passport

DHS provides information on the passport application process, obtaining a visa, border crossing documents, and general travel tips.

Check Wait Times

Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provide information on wait times at airports and border crossings.

Cross U.S. Borders

Travelers traveling through the U.S. must have the required documents needed to enter based upon their citizenship or place of residence.

File a Travel Complaint (DHS TRIP)

The DHS Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) allows individuals to report difficulties about their security screening at transportation hubs or U.S. borders.

Learn What I Can Bring on the Plane

Learn what you can bring on the plane by reviewing TSA's list of what you can bring on the plane, what you cannot bring on the plane.

Locate a Port of Entry (Air, Land, Sea)

Locate a Port of Entry (Air, Land, Sea) when entering the United States.

Travel Overseas

Find answers to common questions from international travelers about planning for your trip, returning home and navigating passenger processing.

Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP)

TTP provides modified screening for pre-approved members by improving security by being more efficient during screenings at ports of entry.

Visit the United States

DHS provides a full range of online resources to help you plan your trip, manage your arrival and if needed extend your stay when visiting the U.S.

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U.S. citizens traveling abroad

Find out about visas, the Trusted Traveler programs, what to do in an emergency, and more.

Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

Save time getting through airport security with Trusted Traveler Programs

When you become a member of a Trusted Traveler Program such as TSA Precheck and Global Entry, you can spend less time in airport security lines and at border crossings.

COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19.

Emergency help for Americans abroad

Find out what to do in an emergency in another country, including assistance, money and more.

International driver’s license for U.S. citizens

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to drive while traveling abroad, find out the driver’s license requirements for the country you are visiting.

Do you need a passport to travel to or from U.S. territories or Freely Associated States?

The travel documents you need as a U.S. citizen to travel to or from a U.S. territory or Freely Associated State depend on your destination.

Authenticate an official document for use outside the U.S.

Apostilles and authentication certificates show U.S. documents are genuine. Learn when to use each.

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TSA's Top Travel Tips

TSA partnered with Stars and Stripes News for special military guide

The special guide for service members and their families includes travel tips, such as how to prepare, pack and declare a firearm, checkpoint dos and don’ts, and an inside look at some of TSA’s programs and employees, with a special military emphasis.

Kids rule the airport!

Traveling with children. Those words can strike fear in the hearts of even seasoned travelers. How does one prepare for the ‘excitement’ of bringing young travelers to the airport? We have the answer to three of the most common issues.

Strollers, car seats, breastmilk, oh my!

It can be stressful traveling with baby gear any time of year. Check out this video for tips on navigating through the security screening process with these items. And don’t forget, if you need assistance – just ask – we’re happy to help!

Refresh your memory on the liquid rules

We all know by now that a turkey sandwich is not a liquid, but it can still be confusing when you’re figuring out how to pack your liquids. Watch this video and it will all be crystal clear.

TSA PreCheck® = game changer

Who doesn’t want to get through security faster? TSA PreCheck® allows you to do just that. It’s quick and easy security screening for travelers we know more about – and have earned the esteemed title of “Trusted Traveler.” Applying is easy and once you’re a member- you’ll never want to go back.

How not to be “That Guy” at the airport checkpoint

If you’re like most travelers, you likely don’t like to hear the sound of tapping feet and heavy sighs as your fellow travelers wait for you to prepare your items for security. Want to get through security as fast as possible, while still being safe? Check out these tips for domestic travel from your friends at TSA.

Can you pack your meds in a pill case and more questions answered

One of the more popular questions we get from travelers is: “Can I travel with my medication?” The answer is yes, with some qualifiers. Here are a few tips that you might find helpful.

How to know you’ve forgotten something at the checkpoint

Ever gotten on a plane and felt like you were missing something? Here’s a list of the most common items left behind at the security checkpoint. Take note, so it doesn’t happen to you!

Taking your human on a plane: what every pet needs to know

Hey, down here! Are we going to the airport again? No big deal… we’re in this together, and that means we both have to go through security screening.

Get Ready for Game Day

Ah, fall! A time for falling leaves, cooling temperatures, and pumpkin spice flavored everything. But for sports fans, fall means the return of football. Players at all levels, from pee wee to the pros, will be taking the field once again. And if you’re traveling to see the Tide roll or the Eagles soar, we have some tips to help you avoid a penalty flag during your airport screening experience.

Travel Tips that Your Mama Will Love

Everyone knows that there’s no sweeter gift for mom than a visit from you! But if you must bring along a gift, we have a few dos and don’ts to make sure your screening experience is a smooth one.

Fashion dos and don’ts while going through the checkpoint!

Avoid a fashion faux pas by forgetting to do this on your next airport visit.

Keep the Change

Pennies, nickels and dimes don’t seem like much… just a jiggling in your pockets, right? Every day, thousands of people leave their loose change at TSA security checkpoints across America. You may think that a few pennies don’t add up to very much. Just wait until you find out how much passengers leave in those checkpoint bins!

You’ll kick yourself if you forget these travel tips!

Millions of people from all over the world are tuning in to this year’s World Cup. Summer travel season is in full swing so be sure to be ahead of the game when traveling. Shoot and score with these helpful tips that will help you dribble through security with ease.

Going GREEN while traveling through airport security!

Earth Day is every day for TSA. You can do your part to help our planet with these green-friendly travel tips.

Feel like a Superhero with these ASTONISHING travel tips!

Dust off your comic books and cosplay outfits and make room on your shelves for even more cool collectibles! The Granddaddy of annual comic conventions is HERE! Here are 4 helpful tips for all the fanboys and fangirls out there!

5 stressors every pregnant woman has at the airport

Traveling at any time can be stressful, but it can be even more challenging when you’re pregnant.

Too cool for school

The time has come for students to head back to class. If you’ll be flying off to school, we have some tips to make your back-to-school travels as stress-free as possible. After all, nothing should cause you stress other than your first exams and textbook costs!

Two Carry-on Bags in Paradise: A Love Story

If loving a safe flight is wrong, then we don’t want to be right! Valentine’s Day is almost here and many of us will be traveling with gifts for the one we love. Check out some of the most common items screened at security checkpoints nationwide during this romantic time of year.

When flying on a broom just won’t do

Hello all you ghouls and ghosts! It’s almost that bewitching time which means you’re probably itching to hop onto your brooms and fly to a Halloween adventure from your local airports. Here are the tips to make sure your trick-or-treating in the airports is just as sweet as your bucket of candy (without all of the cavities).

Summer Blockbuster -- Automated Screening Lanes coming to an airport near you

Automated Screening Lanes are a state-of-the-art checkpoint technology that enhances security efficiency while decreasing the amount of time travelers spend during the security screening process. These lanes are currently in airports in New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Dallas, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Houston, Newark, Seattle and Atlanta.

Turkey trot on your way through the airport

Thanksgiving is a time for joy, a time for family, and of course a time for glorious, sumptuous, food! Traveling with these mouth-watering dishes, can sometimes be tricky, so find out what you can pack and what you should leave behind at home.

The Spirit of the Season

Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa all begin in December. No matter the religious holiday, TSA has tips for items that you may be traveling with in celebration of the season.

Fly Like Rudolph for the Holiday Season

Deck the moving walkways with your jolly selves as you venture off to your cozy destinations this holiday season! Since traveling with festive fare can sometimes be tricky, check out our tips below to make sure you and your fellow elves make it through the security checkpoint in a mistletoe minute.

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• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents
• Know Before You Go
• Top Ten Travel Tips

U.S. Travelers' Top Ten Travel Tips

Take all the travel documents required for the countries you are visiting, as well as identification for your U.S. reentry. U.S. citizens need passports to reenter the country by air. Go to the State Department's Travel Resources website for destination information.

Declare everything you bring in from abroad, even if you bought it in a duty free shop.

Be cautious when buying something from street vendors. The merchandise may be counterfeit and/or unsafe and you may have to surrender it when you return home.

Items brought abroad for personal use or as gifts are eligible for duty exemptions. If you are bringing them back for resale, they are not eligible for duty exemption.

Be aware of U.S. prohibited merchandise, such as ivory, tortoiseshell products, and counterfeit items.

Many foreign-made medications are not approved for United States use and are not permitted in the country. When traveling abroad, bring only the medication you will need. Make sure the medication is in the original container.

Travels to and from Cuba - Before departing on your trip, check the latest information for the full list of prohibited and restricted items on the Department of the Treasury's Sanctions Programs and Country Information website, as well as other related government resources.

Before bringing food to the United States, please check the list of prohibited items. All live animals, birds and bird products may be restricted, quarantined or require certification.

CBP officers can inspect you and your belongings without a warrant to enforce U.S. laws.

For more information, read the CBP brochure Know Before You Go Pocket Guide , Publication #0198-0215. Request printed copies on the CBP Publication Catalogue page.

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Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready

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Sometimes – in spite of good planning – things can still go wrong. Prepare for the unexpected by reading about how to plan for a crisis overseas.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

Are you thinking about traveling to China to visit or study abroad? The U.S. government suggests reconsidering your trip for now. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , traveling to China is under a level 3 travel advisory , warning Americans to reconsider. The State Department has four warning levels. The fourth is “Do not travel.”

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The U.S. is asking Americans to reconsider traveling to China due to various reasons, including concerns about health and safety, such as the prevalence of contagious diseases like COVID-19, as well as political tensions or security risks in certain regions.

As of April 12, there are some specific areas that the U.S. is asking people to reconsider travel to. Those areas include:

• Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.
• Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. 

Additionally, the U.S. government may issue travel advisories based on factors like civil unrest, natural disasters, or other hazards that could affect travelers' well-being.

Americans detained in China

Mark Swidan — a man from Houston, Texas — has been detained in China for over 10 years on drug charges. According to The Texas Tribune , Swidan was detained in China in 2012 while on a trip looking for materials for his home and business in Houston. Chinese authorities arrested him after his driver and translator were found in possession of drugs. The driver blamed Swidan, who is accused of trafficking and manufacturing methamphetamine.

A review of Swidan’s case said there were no drugs on him or in his hotel. Last year, the Republic of China’s Jiangmen Intermediate Court denied Swidan’s appeal and upheld his death penalty with a two-year suspended death sentence.

Other Americans considered wrongfully detained include Chinese American businessman Kai Li from Long Island, N.Y., and California pastor David Lin.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

• Trinidad & Tobago
• El Salvador
• South Sudan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)
• Burkina Faso

Traveling abroad? Here are some safety tips

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s free  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  and to prepare contingency plans for emergencies. 

Safety tips if you're traveling outside the U.S.:

• Don't travel alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Try not to be flashy.
• Avoid going to places at night, especially by yourself.

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Where Americans Are Traveling in 2024: By the Numbers

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 .

Americans are traveling abroad in droves.

The number of U.S. citizens flying to international destinations reached nearly 6.5 million passengers in March, according to the International Trade Administration. That’s the highest March total in over five years and shows that the post-pandemic “revenge travel” trend is the new normal.

It wasn’t just March, which usually sees a spike in international departures for spring break. In every month of 2024 so far, more Americans left the country than last year and 2019. These trends point to a blockbuster summer for overseas travel.

Nearly half of Americans (45%) plan to travel by air and/or stay in a hotel this summer and expect to spend $3,594 on average, on these expenses, according to a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults, conducted online by The Harris Poll and commissioned by NerdWallet.

That's despite rising travel prices that have caused some hesitancy among would-be travelers. About 22% of those choosing not to travel this summer cite inflation making travel too expensive as a reason for staying home, according to the poll.

So where are traveling Americans going? And what does it mean for those looking to avoid crowds of tourists and higher travel prices?

New travel patterns

Nearly every region in the world saw an increase in U.S. visitors in March 2024 compared with March 2023, according to International Trade Administration data. Only the Middle East saw a decline of 9%. Yet not every region saw the same year-over-year bump. U.S. visitors to Asia saw a 33% jump, while Oceania and Central America each saw a 30% increase.

Comparing 2024 with 2023 only tells part of the story, however. The new patterns really emerge when comparing international travel trends to 2019. For example, Central America received 50% more U.S. visitors in March 2024 compared with March 2019. Nearly 1.5 million Americans visited Mexico, up 39% compared with before the pandemic. That’s almost as many visitors as the entire continent of Europe, which has seen a more modest 10% increase since 2019.

Only Canada and Oceania saw fewer visitors in March 2024 than in 2019, suggesting that interest in these locations has not rebounded. Indeed, the trends indicate a kind of tourism inertia from COVID-19 pandemic-era lockdowns: Those destinations that were more open to U.S. visitors during the pandemic, such as Mexico, have remained popular, while those that were closed, such as Australia, have fallen off travelers’ radars.

Price pressures

How these trends play out throughout the rest of the year will depend on a host of factors. Yet, none will likely prove more important than affordability. After months of steadiness, the cost of travel, including airfare, hotels and rental cars, has begun to sneak up again.

About 45% of U.S. travelers say cost is their main consideration when planning their summer vacation, according to a survey of 2,000 Americans by the travel booking platform Skyscanner.

That’s likely to weigh further on U.S. travelers’ appetite for visiting expensive destinations such as Europe, while encouraging travel to budget-friendly countries. It could also depress overall international travel as well, yet so far, Americans seem to be traveling more.

For those looking to avoid crowds while maintaining a budget, Skyscanner travel trends expert Laura Lindsay offered a recommendation many of us might need help finding on a map.

“Albania has been on the radar of travelers looking for something different,” Lindsay said. "Most people have yet to discover it, but flights and tourism infrastructure are in place, and there are fewer crowds in comparison to trending European destinations like Italy, Greece, or Portugal.”

On the flip side, American travelers looking to avoid crowds of compatriots would do well to avoid Japan, which has seen a staggering 50% increase in U.S. tourists between March 2019 and 2024.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

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

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

Best travel insurance for seniors of may 2024.

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

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

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

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

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

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

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

Best overall: Allianz

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

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

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

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

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

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

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

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

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

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

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

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

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

Types of coverage

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

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

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

Making the most of your plan

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

Understanding your policy

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

Emergency assistance services

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

How to pick senior travel insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• Main content

The 50 Best Bars in North America 2024 Were Just Announced

By Charlie Hobbs

Since 2022, when World's 50 Best first began ranking North America’s 50 Best Bars, New York City and Mexico City have vied for the top spot. Always the bridesmaid, CDMX's Handshake Speakeasy has earned second place for the last two years in a row (first trailing Attaboy, then Double Chicken Please —both beloved Lower East Side joints). This year, however, the Colonia Juarez cocktail bar takes first place at long last.

While New York City is no longer top dog, its watering holes occupy second, third, and fourth place with Superbueno, Overstory , and Martiny’s, respectively. Rounding out the top five is another Mexico City establishment, Rayo.

Last year’s number one, Double Chicken Please, has fallen to seventh—but New York City continues to house more of North America’s top bars than any other city, with 12 of the US’s 26 entries. The other bars are Katana Kitten (No. 12), Employees Only (No. 15), Dante (No. 20), Attaboy (No. 31), The Dead Rabbit (No. 33), Maison Premiere (No .41), new entry Angel’s Share (No.43), and Milady’s (No.44). With the exception of Maison Premiere in Williamsburg, all of the above bars are located in downtown Manhattan.

So, what is it that pushed Handshake Speakeasy over the top this year? The details are unclear, but the bar—which is notoriously difficult to find, and therefore aptly named—has for one thing maintained its quality with nothing short of steadfast joy. Emma Sleight, 50 Best’s Head of Content, notes in a statement that the bar is “part of a strong cocktail culture in Mexico ” that warrants celebration. Adding to the mystique is bar director Eric van Beek, who with his team cooks up clarified juices, fat-washed spirits, and home-made syrups from a proper alchemist’s laboratory hidden onsite.

There are, as always, superlatives galore to be picked apart from the results. Superbueno earns the title of Disaronno Highest Entry for its debut at number two (the bar opened in early 2023) and in the process also takes the crown as the best bar in the United States. Toronto 's Civil Liberties is the best bar in Canada for the third year in the row (No. 21), while the best bar in the Caribbean is Puerto Rico ’s La Factoría (No. 18). Grand Cayman marks its first entry on the list with Library by the Sea (No. 35)—it was also recognized with the London Essence Best New Opening Award.

Also notable: San Francisco ’s True Laurel (No. 30) takes home the Kettle One Sustainable Bar Award with some much-needed representation for the West Coast ( Los Angeles has two entries, Thunderbolt at No. 8, and Mírate at No. 46.) The 270 members of the voting academy bestowed Claudia Cabrera of Mexico City’s Kaito del Valle with the Roku Industry Icon Award for her work championing female bartenders through her Japanese izakaya-style bar program.

The full list of winners can be found below, to be studied for your next few rounds of drinking on this great continent.

Handshake Speakeasy was crowned the best bar in North America.

• Handshake Speakeasy, Mexico City
• Superbueno, New York
• Overstory, New York
• Martiny's, New York,
• Rayo, Mexico City
• Jewel of the South, New Orleans
• Double Chicken Please, New York
• Thunderbolt, Los Angeles
• Licorería Limantour, Mexico City
• Tlecān, Mexico City
• Zapote Bar, Playa del Carmen

Katana Kitten, a New York regular on the list, came in at No. 12.

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

12. Katana Kitten, New York

13. Café La Trova, Miami

14. El Gallo Altanero, Guadalajara

15. Employees Only, New York

16. Aruba Day Drink, Tijuana

17. Café de Nadie, Mexico City

18. La Factoría, San Juan

19. Kumiko, Chicago

20. Dante, New York

21. Civil Liberties, Toronto

22. Service Bar, Washington DC

23. Allegory, Washington DC

The Botanist Bar in Vancouver is the second-highest Canadian entry at No. 24.

24. Botanist Bar, Vancouver

25. Herbs & Rye, Las Vegas

26. Baltra Bar, Mexico City

27. Bekeb, San Miguel de Allende

28. Kaito del Valle, Mexico City

29. Bar Pompette, Toronto

30. True Laurel, San Francisco

31. Attaboy, New York

32. Meadowlark, Chicago

33. The Dead Rabbit, New York

34. Selva, Oaxaca

Library by the Sea represents Grand Cayman's first entry on the list, at No. 35—it also took home the London Essence Best New Opening Award.

35. Library by the Sea, Grand Cayman

36. Century Grand, Phoenix

37. Arca, Tulum

38. Pacific Cocktail Heaven, San Francisco

39. Cloakroom, Montreal

40. Bar Mordecai, Toronto

41. Maison Premiere, New York

42. Hanky Panky, Mexico City

43. Angel's Share, New York

44. Milady's, New York

45. Brujas, Mexico City

46. Mírate, Los Angeles

47. Cure, New Orleans

48. Best Intentions, Chicago

49. The Keefer Bar, Vancouver

50. Atwater Cocktail Club, Montreal

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North America Travel Guide

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