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

Editor's Note

Some credit cards offer built-in travel insurance as a cardholder benefit. And it may be tempting to rely on credit card travel protections instead of buying travel insurance. But, the entire point of travel insurance is to be covered if something goes wrong. So, you may be wondering whether you should buy travel insurance even if your credit card offers travel protection.

There isn't one answer that fits every traveler or situation. So in this guide, we'll explore some aspects you should consider, and I'll discuss my take on this topic. Let's dive in so you can make an informed decision for yourself.

Travel insurance you can buy

At a high level, you can pay a relatively small premium (compared to the total cost of your trip) to buy a travel insurance policy that may provide reimbursement or coverage for unexpected issues that affect your trip.

Many different types of protections fall under the term "travel insurance." Standard, comprehensive insurance policies typically include broad coverage across various potential issues.

But there are also policies that offer specific coverage. For example, it's possible to purchase travel insurance that only provides medical protection for international travel (such as GeoBlue ). Likewise, you can also purchase policies that allow you to select the protections you need (such as the build-your-own option with American Express Travel Insurance ).

We've previously compared the best travel insurance policies and providers . So, check out that guide to find the provider and policy that fits your needs best. You can also check a travel insurance aggregator to compare different policies quickly.

Most travel insurance policies exclude any loss incurred due to a preexisting medical condition. However, many policies include a process to obtain a waiver of the preexisting condition exclusion if you meet specific requirements. These requirements typically include purchasing the policy shortly after the first nonrefundable trip payment or deposit and being medically able to travel when you buy the policy. Some companies also require you to insure your trip's full, prepaid, nonrefundable cost to be eligible.

Likewise, all travel insurance policies have several exclusions. For example, most plans exclude medical benefits for injuries during adventure activities such as skydiving or skiing outside maintained trails.

Related: 7 things to look out for when buying travel insurance, according to an expert

Credit card travel protections

Some cards don't provide any special travel protections. But, many of the best travel rewards cards offer travel protections. Here's a look at our guides about some of the most common credit card travel protections:

• Trip delay reimbursement
• Baggage delay reimbursement
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
• Travel accident and emergency evacuation insurance

Check out our guide to the best cards that offer travel protections for more details on what card might be best for you. I also recommend reading the guide to benefits for your specific cards, as these documents will detail exactly what protections you can expect when you purchase travel with your card.

Note that some benefits require you to enroll — and virtually all require a formal claim process, with no reimbursement guarantee.

Related: Getting credit card travel insurance to cover the change fee on my Disney cruise

When to purchase travel insurance

Even if you have a credit card that offers travel protection, you may still want to purchase travel insurance for some trips. Here are some scenarios and trips for which it may make sense to purchase travel insurance.

Travel protections aren't offered

As discussed above, not all travel credit cards provide extensive travel protections when you book travel using the card. So, if you're using a card without travel protections or a card that only offers limited travel protections, you may want to purchase travel insurance .

Related: The best credit cards for booking flights

Some travelers aren't covered

Just because a card offers travel protections doesn't mean everyone traveling with you will be covered. In particular, travel protections usually only extend to select relatives of the cardholder. Your credit card's travel insurance may not cover friends, employees and all relatives.

Related: Who is covered by your credit card travel insurance?

Adventure activities

If you plan to partake in an activity that most insurance policies exclude, you may want to purchase a travel insurance policy that explicitly includes your activity of choice.

For example, many policies exclude adventure sports like base jumping, sky diving, free soloing, diving, mountaineering and paragliding. You may want to consider purchasing insurance from an association involved in your adventure activity, such as Divers Alert Network (DAN) if you're a diver or German Alpine Group (DAV) if you partake in alpine sports.

You're concerned about preexisting conditions

Most credit card trip interruption and cancellation insurance benefits exclude cancellations or interruptions caused by a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition. So, you'll want to purchase travel insurance — and ensure you satisfy the provider's preexisting condition exclusion waiver conditions — if you want trip cancellation and interruption insurance that covers preexisting conditions.

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

Nonmedical evacuation insurance

If you want evacuation insurance for nonmedical reasons, you should purchase travel insurance that offers this coverage even if you have a credit card with evacuation insurance .

Read the benefits guide closely, as evacuation benefits may not cover every evacuation you might need. For example, some policies don't cover evacuation from an area with a travel warning when you booked your trip or evacuation from a place suddenly inaccessible due to a landslide or other environmental incident.

Related: A Medjet medical transport membership is different from travel insurance

Cancel for any reason

Suppose you are uncertain whether you'll be able to take your trip, and you're worried that applicable credit card trip protections won't reimburse you if you decide to cancel or interrupt for a reason that isn't covered. In that case, you may want to purchase cancel for any reason trip insurance .

Related: 6 truths and myths about cancel for any reason travel insurance

You want peace of mind

Some travelers prefer to buy travel insurance — for each trip or via an annual travel insurance plan — for the peace of mind that having a travel insurance policy brings. Especially given the issues travelers have faced with a specific credit card insurance provider , it may be worth buying a travel insurance plan if you don't feel confident your credit card travel insurance and individual health insurance will combine to provide enough coverage during your trip.

Related: Here's why I buy an annual travel insurance policy, even though my credit cards offer travel protections

When credit card travel protections may be enough

Suppose you don't fall into any of the categories above and use one of the best credit cards with travel insurance when making travel purchases. In that case, you may determine that credit card protections are enough for some (or all) of your trips. However, I only recommend relying on credit card protections if you also have health insurance that will provide adequate coverage at your destination.

Below is a collection of reasons you can rely on credit card protections instead of purchasing independent travel insurance. If some (or most) of these reasons apply to your trip, it may be reasonable for you to rely on credit card protections instead of buying travel insurance:

• You have personal health insurance that will cover you on your trip, even if treatment is out of network at your destination
• You book your trip with a credit card that provides travel insurance
• You have a credit card that provides medical evacuation benefits during your trip
• You make refundable travel plans that you can cancel for little or no fee
• You tend to change your plans frequently or book travel at the last minute
• You have an emergency fund that can cover unexpected expenses if needed
• You have airline miles or transferable points you can use to leave the area or return home if needed.
• You avoid especially high-risk activities and destinations

The decision of whether to buy travel insurance is complex and personal. If you don't feel confident that your credit card protections and individual health insurance will provide adequate coverage, it's likely worth buying travel insurance.

Related: Why you might want to get a premium credit card instead of purchasing travel insurance

Why credit card travel insurance is usually enough for me

After researching the best travel insurance policies and providers , I purchased travel insurance for one specific trip because I wanted political evacuation coverage.

But for most of my trips, credit card protections and individual health insurance provide enough coverage for me. After all, my travel usually looks like the following:

• My flights are often award flights that I can cancel and redeposit free of charge — or ones that carry minimal change and cancellation fees
• My lodging can almost always be canceled without a penalty until shortly before my stay
• If I book a tour or activity, it's usually within a few days of said tour or activity (or offers free cancellation)
• My health insurance provides out-of-network coverage outside the U.S., so travel insurance would only pay for my deductible. In addition, my out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network care is low enough to cover using my emergency fund
• I book flights and pay for the taxes and fees for award flights using the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , which provides excellent travel protections for a $95 annual fee card
• I have ample airline miles and transferable points that I can use to cover last-minute one-way flights if needed

As you can see, the benefits of purchasing travel insurance would be minimal for most of my trips. The travel protections I use most are trip delay protection and baggage delay protection , both of which the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card provides when I use it to pay for my flights.

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred combo is perfect for couples who travel

Bottom line

As you book trips, you may wonder whether you should purchase travel insurance. One way to decide is to consider whether you'd be adequately covered without purchasing travel insurance if the worst happens.

If you're willing and able to cover the costs in this situation — or you feel confident you'd be adequately covered by your credit card's travel protections and health insurance — then you may want to proceed without buying travel insurance. Otherwise, I recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy shortly after you make the initial payment for your trip.

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Travel insurance FAQs

What is the bpi credit cards travel insurance.

It is a complimentary travel insurance that is automatically issued to cardholders who used any of their qualified BPI Credit cards to purchase travel fare on any form of air, water, and land conveyance.

Who are entitled to avail the BPI Credit Card Free Travel Insurance?

Principal and supplementary cardholders are entitled to the Travel Insurance package on the following conditions: 1. Aged 69 years and under at the time of travel 2. Travel fare for principal or supplementary cardholder is charged using any of the following qualified principal/supplementary BPI  Credit card: Credit Card BPI Blue Mastercard BPI Gold Mastercard BPI Platinum Rewards Mastercard BPI Visa Signature BPI Corporate Mastercard One minor* dependent of the principal or supplementary cardholder, travelling with either or both, and whose fare is also charged on the same card on a per trip basis. *Minor dependent shall mean child of the cardholder aged 1 to 21 years old, not gainfully employed.  For Corporate Mastercard cardholders, coverage of the policy can also be applied to other passengers, for as long as: a. The travel fares are purchased on the same card, on a per trip basis; b. The passengers are employees of the same company; c. And that the additional name(s) are declared to BPI prior the trip; d. Maximum of 10 non-BPI Credit Card cardholders only, per trip.

Who is the provider of the BPI Credit Cards Travel Insurance?

The provider of BPI Credit Cards Travel Insurance is BPI/MS Insurance Corporation.

How does BPI Credit Cards Travel Insurance differ from the travel care advantage being offered by BPI MS Insurance?

BPI Credit Cards Travel Insurance is a complimentary insurance package that covers you while travelling via air, land, or water. Travel Care Advantage is a travel insurance package for the entire duration of your trip.

I already availed of the travel insurance directly with another insurance company. Am I still qualified to the BPI Credit card Travel Insurance?

Yes, as long as you charged your travel fare/ticket using your eligible BPI Credit card.

When does the travel insurance policy commence/expire?

Your coverage starts upon physical check-in or boarding, whichever is applicable and expires upon physical disembarkation from the mode of conveyance.

Is the coverage applicable for domestic and international travel?

Yes. It covers both domestic and international travel.

I will travel from Manila to Baguio by land. Am I insured if I opt to take public bus or rent-a-car service?

Yes. For public bus, you are insured as long as you are a regular fare-paying passenger and your travel fare is charged to your eigible BPI Credit Card. On the other hand, you are also insured if you choose rent-a-car service, provided that your destination covers a distance of at least sixty (60) kilometers from point of origin. This excludes Grab and other similar service provider.

How do I claim?

a. In any unlikely event, the cardholder or the cardholder’s immediate relative shall notify BPI through the 24-hour BPI Contact Center at (02) 889-10000 (Metro Manila) or domestic toll free 1-800-188-89100 (Outside Metro Manila) within three weeks from the date of incident. b. Submit all requirements to BPI MS Insurance Corporation Claims Department at 11th Floor, BPI Philam Life Building, Ayala Ave., Makati City or to any BPI MS Insurance Corporation branch near you.

What are the requirements to claim?

Please click  here  for the complete list of requirements.

Is there a participation fee?

Participation fee or deductible amount of Php 500 is only applicable for Baggage Delay and Loss. Other insurance coverage does not require any participation fee.

In case of accidental death, can my beneficiary claim the insurance proceeds from BPI even if I am already covered with full comprehensive travel insurance from another insurer?

Yes. These are two different insurance with different coverage.

What does Maximum Accumulation Limit per incident mean?

For every incident, the maximum accumulation limit is based on the type of card used.  This amount will be equally divided among cardholders who are entitled to the insurance claim. Maximum Accumulation Limit per Incident:              Php 20M  Card Type BPI Blue Mastercard, BPI Gold Mastercard, BPI Platinum Rewards, BPI Corporate Mastercard Maximum Accumulation Limit per Incident:              Php 40M  Card Type: BPI Visa Signature Example:  Three (3) cardholders charged their airfare using their BPI Gold Mastercard and boarded the same flight. In the event of a plane mishap, the maximum insurance claim of P20M will be equally divided among the cardholders’ eligible beneficiaries.

I was not able to take my scheduled flight due to illness. Can you reimburse my medical expenses?

No. Medical reimbursement excludes illness. It only covers accidental injury while on board the airline/carrier.

I arrived at my destination at 9:00 pm, but my baggage only arrived at 10:00 am the next day. Can you reimburse my clothing expenses?

Yes. Clothing expenses due to lost (robbery/fire/burglary) or beyond 12-hour delayed arrival of check-in baggage shall be covered up to a maximum limit. Incidence of lost hand-carry baggage is not included.

My flight was originally scheduled to depart at 9:00 pm, but was rescheduled to leave at 10:00 am of the next day. Can you reimburse my hotel accommodation and food expenses?

Yes. Expenses on hotel accommodation and restaurant meals incurred while waiting for more than 12 hours delayed flight departure shall be covered up to a maximum limit.  The coverage applies even with the provision of the airline/carrier.

I lost my hand-carry baggage which contains my passport, ticket, and other travel documents, will the expenses to replace my travel documents be covered?

Yes, but only the actual cost of passport replacement is covered.

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Best credit cards for travel insurance

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Credit cards with travel insurance can help protect you from financial losses when your luggage is lost or stolen, your trip is canceled for reasons beyond your control, or someone vandalizes your rental car.

Amazingly, credit cards that come with travel insurance offer this extra protection on a complimentary basis. When you have one of the top rewards credit cards with travel insurance, you can enjoy these added perks for free.

The travel insurance benefits you’ll get with a rewards card can vary dramatically, though it shouldn’t surprise you that premium travel credit cards tend to offer the broadest coverage.

Types of coverage you may get with the best credit cards for travel insurance include trip cancellation and interruption insurance, auto rental coverage, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, roadside assistance and much more.

If you’re hoping to get travel insurance as a cardholder perk, the following rewards credit cards with travel insurance should be at the top of your list.

Comparing the top travel credit cards for trip insurance

A closer look at the best credit cards for travel insurance, chase sapphire reserve: best for luxury travelers, why we picked it.

With an extensive list of luxury travel perks, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers an elevated experience for frequent travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Cardholders enjoy an extensive list of benefits, but those who put travel-related expenses on this card see an added bonus of boosted rewards: 5X on flights purchased through Chase, 10X on hotel stays and rental cars paid for with the card, 10X on Lyft rides (through March 2025) and 3X on all other travel purchases.

• Up to $300 in statement credits annually for travel purchases
• Complimentary airport lounge access at 1,300+ locations internationally
• Global Entry or TSA Precheck or NEXUS fee credit
• Exclusive access to VIP events and dining experiences
• $550 annual fee, plus $75 fee for each authorized user
• No current introductory APR offer
• Current welcome offer for this product is not as competitive as it once was

Who should apply

Frequent travelers who will make the most of this card’s perks are likely to offset the annual fee and see the most benefit. Travelers who book through Chase Ultimate Rewards and Chase Dining will see a significantly boosted rate of rewards earnings.

Who should skip

Moderate travelers who won’t recoup the cost of the annual fee may find the Chase Sapphire Preferred a better fit, with fewer perks but a much lower ($95) annual fee.

The Platinum Card from American Express: Best for lounge lovers

The Platinum Card has the highest rewards rate of any American Express card available and provides frequent fliers with some of the most extensive lounge access available to the public. Hilton and Marriott customers can also enjoy complimentary elite access (Gold Status and Gold Elite Status, respectively); a bevy of other statement credits are available, adding up to around $1,700 in value each year.

• Extensive lounge access and travel benefits for account holders
• Up to $500 trip delay insurance (up to two claims every 12 months) and up to $10,000 per trip or $20,000 per card in trip cancellation insurance (every 12 months)
• Welcome offer currently valued up to $1,500
• Statement credits available annually add ongoing value to the card
• $695 annual fee
• Less-competitive reward rates and more niche perks than some competing products
• Elevated rewards categories are largely limited to travel spending

Routine air travelers will likely see the greatest benefit from this card, which offers extensive airport lounge access and works with 17 airline partners to provide members with 5X points earned on airfare.

Travelers looking to earn points and rewards through everyday purchases such as gas and groceries may find other cards to be a better fit.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best for budget travelers

When compared to other cards designed for travel, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is a contender with solid rewards offerings despite its modest $95 annual fee. Though the luxury perks are pared back — especially when compared side-by-side with the Chase Sapphire Reserve card — there are still built-in perks like travel insurance and supplementary auto rental coverage for cardholders.

• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $10,000 per person or $20,000 per trip); baggage delay insurance of up to $100 per day for five days
• A 25 percent boost in value when rewards are spent using the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
• No foreign transaction fees
• Lacks luxury perks like free checked bags and airport lounge access
• No introductory APR or balance transfer offers

Business owners who are looking for a travel rewards card with a low annual fee.

Travelers who expect luxury benefits like airport lounge access, hotel regulars who could earn a higher rewards rate on hotel stays using another card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for everyday use

For travelers who need a balance between value (a comparatively moderate annual fee) and hefty, flexible rewards, the Capital One Venture X Rewards card offers boosted rewards earnings (2X) for everyday spending, as well as even more generously-boosted earnings on select travel purchases (5X to 10X).

• Flexible boosted rewards earnings: 2X on all purchases, 5X on flights booked through Capital One Travel, 10X on hotels & rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Offers a middle-ground, considering its annual fee and perks offerings
• Frequent travelers who will benefit from earning miles and prefer the flexibility of earning with everyday purchases
• Fewer luxury perks when compared to some competing cards
• Less-flexible rewards redemption, when matched against some competitors

Business owners who are looking to earn travel rewards both through everyday business expenses and through travel purchases.

Cardholders looking for top-of-the-line luxury travel benefits may find more impressive perks elsewhere.

United Club℠ Infinite Card: Best for United loyalists

For travelers who don’t mind pledging loyalty to a specific airline, the United Club Infinite Card offers outstanding rewards for those who travel regularly using United. Those who use this card for flights, in-flight purchases, baggage fees, and ticket upgrades will enjoy a 4X boosted rate of rewards earnings, alongside 2X earnings on non-United travel and dining purchases.

• Generous welcome offer and perks for United flyers
• Flexible points redemption for everything from hotel stays and car rentals to gift cards and Mileage Plus catalog merchandise
• Free checked bags on United flights
• Automatic United Club lounge membership
• Global Entry / TSA Precheck application fee reimbursement
• $525 annual fee
• No introductory APR offers on purchases or balance transfers
• Requires good to excellent credit to qualify

Air travel regulars who find themselves booking United flights routinely are likely to see a strong return when using this card.

If your business travel takes you to cities without regular service by United and its partner carriers, you may be better served by a travel rewards card that offers more versatility.

Is a travel credit card right for you?

Travel cards come loaded with attractive perks and sky-high annual fees to match. Unfortunately, unless you travel often, you’ll probably have a tough time recouping the cost of that annual fee. Meanwhile, frequent travelers will get plenty of value from benefits like airline lounge access, complimentary checked baggage, and cancellation coverage. For those who are frequently on the go, the provided travel insurance can truly save the day when luggage is lost, or travel plans are abruptly canceled. Even if you only check one to two bags on a few flights per year, your card’s annual fee pays for itself.

How to choose a credit card with travel insurance

If you’re shopping around for a travel credit card that comes with travel insurance, take note of other features such as rewards and fees. That way, you’ll wind up with a card that works well when you travel while still providing plenty of value at home.

Here are some tips to consider as you browse the top credit card offers :

•  Decide which travel protections you need the most. First, it can help to decide which travel insurance benefits you care the most about. While some consumers may only need primary rental car coverage or trip cancellation and interruption insurance, think about whether you would use other benefits like baggage insurance or roadside assistance.
• Read through the terms and conditions. In addition to deciding which travel protections you’re likely to use, pay attention to coverage limits and exclusions. For example, some travel cards offer only auto rental coverage for certain rental periods or within certain countries. Other benefits come with low limits that won’t provide much protection.
• Compare rewards programs. Next, think about the types of rewards you want to earn with your credit card—whether you prefer to rack up cash back, earn points you can transfer to airline or hotel programs or get flexible rewards you can redeem in more than one way. Be sure any card you’re considering offers a rewards scheme that makes sense for your spending style.
• Weigh the perks of cards that charge annual fees. Finally, keep in mind that the best credit cards with travel insurance tend to charge annual fees and that the cards with the most robust coverage options charge fees of $500 or more. While paying the high fee on a travel credit card could be well worth it, you may be able to get basic travel protections for less (or even with no annual fee) if you take the time to compare all your options.

The bottom line

If you’re angling for a credit card with travel insurance, any of the rewards credit cards we profiled on this page should fit the bill. But be sure to compare based on other features such as rewards and fees. Travel insurance benefits can be well worth paying a credit card’s annual fee, but infrequent travelers shouldn’t overpay for protections they’re rarely in the position to use.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

The information about United Club℠ Infinite Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

How do I make a claim on my credit card travel insurance?

In most cases, you will file a claim on the credit card servicer’s website. Be prepared to provide documentation supporting any losses you’re requesting reimbursement for.

Does credit card travel insurance offer enough coverage on its own?

In many cases, cards like these with extensive built-in travel protections offer plenty of coverage on their own. But just because you’ve booked a trip on your travel rewards card does not mean everyone on your manifest is covered: in many cases, coverage is only extended to the cardholder and their immediate family members.

You may consider purchasing supplemental insurance coverage for your trip if you’re traveling with friends or colleagues, or if you wish to include extra flexibility around your change or cancellation needs.

Does credit card travel insurance cover COVID-19 cancellations?

In short, yes, many do. Check the fine print of your card’s travel insurance policy– many will require proof of a diagnosis from a doctor with date information that directly interferes with your trip. Precautionary cancellations due to COVID-19-related concerns are generally not covered.

Learn more : Check out Bankrate’s travel toolkit for tips and tricks on how to maximize travel with a credit card.

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• Free Travel Insurance And Purchase Protection
• Travel Plus

*Eligible RCBC Credit Cards: Platinum Mastercard (Black, Diamond, YGC Rewards Plus Platinum), Hexagon Club, JCB Platinum, and UnionPay Diamond

**Spouses and parents up to 64 years old and children and siblings (unmarried and unemployed) up to 21 years old are eligible.

Terms & Conditions apply.

• When shall the cover commence and end? The cover will start from the date of purchase until 23:59 hours on the 90th day thereafter, except for items purchased under a merchandising program in which case shall commence from the date of delivery in undamaged condition to the Cardholder and until 23:59 hours on the 90th day thereafter.
• What is my maximum allowable benefit? Malayan Insurance shall only pay the purchase price of the item or the portion of such purchase price charged to the Card, up to Php 50,000 or the card’s credit limit, whichever is lower.
• Is the item still covered when I leave the country where I purchased it? YES, this is still covered. There is no geographical limit on the coverage of the item, as long as it is still within the period of ninety (90) days from date of purchase.
• Is Jewelry and Gems covered under this program? YES, but only as personal effects of the Cardholder against ROBBERY and BURGLARY, subject to a deductible (# 6). Coverage shall be from the date of purchase until the Cardholder/Insured arrives home or upon expiration of 30 days whichever comes first.
• Is there a deductible or participation fee when I file for a claim? Yes. There is a deductible of 10% of loss, or Php 5,000.00, whichever is higher, for each and every loss. Jewelry and Gems is subject to a deductible of 20% of the cost, or Php 5,000.00, whichever is higher.
• Property that is insured under an insurance policy, unless its coverage does not extend to cover such loss;
• Property that is covered under a guarantee or warranty unless the loss is not otherwise covered;
• Consumable and Perishables;
• Motor vehicles, or their motors, equipment and accessories (including communication devices intended solely for use in the vehicle), bicycles, marine craft, aircraft, model airplane and boats;
• Business Property purchased to be used for business purpose;
• Cash bank and currency notes, checks, travelers checks, money orders, postal orders, postage stamps, securities, negotiable instruments of any kind, bullion, rare or precious coins, documents or tickets of any kind, unset gemstones;
• Livestock, pets, animal, plants or other living creatures;
• Art, antiques, firearms and collectible items;
• Jewelry, gems, precious stones and articles made of or containing gold (or other precious metals and/or precious stones) unless these are to be used as Cardholder’s personal effects and not part of the Cardholder’s trade or business
• Mechanical, electrical or electronic breakdown, failure or derangement;
• Theft from any unattended vehicle unless all windows are securely closed and all doors, boot and openings are securely locked and there is a visible sign of break-in or forcible opening or entry.
• Marring or scratching, denting or chaffing, deterioration, depreciation, alteration, maintenance, any process of cleaning or dying, repairing or renovation, bleaching, dyeing, restoring or servicing.
• Leakage, loss of weight, shrinkage, evaporation, bulging, buckling, contamination, insect or vermin, inherent vice, wear and tear, rust, corrosion, mildew, atmospheric, or climactic conditions (including wind, rain, hail, sleet, snow and frost) or any other gradually operating causes;
• Delay, seizure, confiscation, destruction, requisition, retention or detention by customs or other government of public authority or official.
• The intentional, deliberate or fraudulent acts of the Cardholder or his representatives, or anyone residing in the same household or to whom the item has been entrusted.
• Mysterious disappearance or unexplained losses.
• Transit by air, vessels or ships, trains or vehicles, or any other modes of Public Transportation unless the Item is hand-carried by the Cardholder during the course of the transit.
• Product defects, faulty or defective design, material or workmanship, latent defect.
• Ionizing radiation or contamination by radioactivity from any nuclear waste from the combustion of nuclear fuel, or the radioactive toxic explosives or hazardous properties of any nuclear assembly or nuclear component thereof.
• Acts of God including but not limited to earthquake, volcanic eruption, hurricane, cyclone, typhoon, windstorm and tornado, flood including overflow of the sea, sandstorm.
• Shipping and handling expenses or installation, assembly related costs.
• Items purchased for resale, professional or commercial use.
• Losses that are caused by vermin, insects, termites, mold, wet or dry rot, bacteria or rust.
• Losses due to mechanical failure, electrical failure, software failure, or data failure including, but not limited to any electrical power interruption, surge, brownout or blackout, or telecommunications or satellite systems failure.
• Items damaged due to normal wear and tear, inherent product defect or normal course of play (such as, but not limited to sporting or recreational equipment).
• Items that cardholder damaged through alteration (including cutting, sawing, and shaping).
• Items left unattended in a place to which general public as access.
• Losses due to or related to nuclear, biological or chemical event.
• Loss which arises directly or indirectly by reason of or in connection with war, invasion, or act of foreign enemy, hostilities or warlike operations (whether war has been declared or not), civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, civil commotion assuming the proportion of or amounting to a popular uprising, military or usurped power, martial law, riot or the act of any lawfully constructed authority.
• The insured’s person’s failure to exercise the necessary level of care and attention needed to avoid or diminish such loss or damage to the Insured Item.
• Diminution in value or loss of use of the Insured Item or consequential loss of any and every kind.
• How can I claim? A written notification to Malayan Insurance must be made within 48 hours from the happening of the incident and complete claim documents must be submitted to Malayan Insurance within seven (7) days from the date of the incident.
• Proof that the damaged or stolen item/s has been charged to the cardholder’s credit card
• Original copy of Sales Invoice or Original Receipt for the damaged or stolen items
• Affidavit of the cardholder on how the loss or damage of the purchased item/s was incurred
• Police report for Theft or Stolen Item claims
• Replacement cost or repair estimates for damaged item claims

RCBC Credit Card spend on international airfare, cruise tickets, or tour packages through a travel agency originating from the Philippines are eligible for free Travel Insurance and Purchase Protection. 

Register for your free Travel Insurance when your credit card transaction is posted 5 banking days after purchasing at  https://cloud.marketing.rcbcbankard.com/travelinsurance .

No. Travel Insurance registrations through the website will prompt you to enter your posted transaction date and the amount reflected in the Statement of Account or the RCBC Pulz app. Make sure to have this information ready for seamless registration.

No. To receive your Travel Insurance electronic Certificate of Cover (e-COC) before your flight, online registration is required at least 5 banking days before your scheduled flight . We strongly recommend that you register early at  https://cloud.marketing.rcbcbankard.com/travelinsurance .  

 Your international trip is covered for up to 15 calendar days. You can request added coverage from our insurance provider and pay with your RCBC Credit Card!

● Extension of cover

● Top up/upgrade to COVID cover - for Plan B ONLY. NOT APPLICABLE TO PLAN A .

● Other companion (exceeding 2).

To request for added coverage, please get in touch with MALAYAN INSURANCE:

        Email: [email protected] , [email protected]

        Telephone (632) 8628-8341/8342 , (632) 8628-8712 / Mobile (+632)920 9455119

The Insurance Provider will cover flights from the PHILIPPINES to international destinations, including those with layovers and extended/multiple stopovers in other countries. Qualified origin is from anywhere in the Philippines; the destination is another country only, not vice versa. 

Yes. Supplementary cardholders who use their RCBC Credit Card to purchase international airfare, cruise tickets, or tour packages from travel agencies are also entitled to free Travel Insurance without Purchase Protection . 

Due to the necessary coordination and verification process, we can no longer process travel insurance requests less than five (5) banking days from your travel date .

If you register at least 5 banking days before your flight and have yet to receive your eCOC, please call the RCBC Credit Customer Hotline (02) 8888-1888 or send an email to [email protected] so we can check the status of the request and provide feedback. 

General Requirements

• RCBC Credit Card used to purchase the international travel ticket
• Statement of Account showing purchase of International Airline Ticket
• International Airline Ticket/Boarding Pass
• Passport duly stamped by Bureau of Immigration (Departure and Arrival)

Personal Accident

• Medical report
• In case of death, original copy of the Death certificate and coroner’s report
• Police report (if a medico legal case or a vehicular accident) or a duly notarized written statement by the claimant

Emergency Medical Treatment

• Out-patient

a. Original Official Receipts

b. Medical report

c. Laboratory results (if any was done)

2. In-patient

a. Statement of Account (with breakdown)

b. Official Receipts

c. Medical Report

d. Laboratory results (if any was done)

e. Operative record and hispathology results (if surgery was done)

f. Police report (if a medico legal case or a vehicular accident) or a duly notarized written statement by the claimant

Emergency Trip Cancellation

• Medical Certificate of assured or family member
• Duplicate copy of death certificate of the immediate family member (if family member died)
• Birth certificate/marriage contract of the assured (depending on the relationship of the assured with the immediate family member)
• Certificate of cancellation of flight from airline
• Original receipts of pre-booked and non-refundable lodging and transportation

Emergency Trip Termination

• New ticket purchased
• Boarding passes or stamp on passport

Loss of Travel Documents

•  Notarized incident report or police report
• Document issued by the carrier for lost travel tickets or the embassy for lost passport
• Copy of the replacement passport and/or travel tickets
• Official receipts of the travel and communication expenses incurred in getting a replacement passport or travel tickets

Flight Delay

• Irregularity report issued by the airline indicating the reason of the delay
• Receipts of expenses (food, lodging, transportation)

Strikes and Aircraft Hijacking

Loss of Baggage

• Baggage irregularity report issued by the airline if the loss occurred while the baggage was under their custody
• Police report if stolen
• Original official receipt/s of the lost baggage/s
• List of lost items with brand, model, type and corresponding amount

Baggage Delay

• Baggage irregularity report issued by the airline
• Delivery report from the airline stating the exact date and time that the baggage was retrieved
• Original official receipts of expenses incurred (on toiletries and clothing)
• Certificate issued by the carrier for lost travel tickets or the embassy for lost passport
• Copy of the replacement passport and/or lost travel tickets
• If loss occurred in such circumstances, an irregularity report from the airline or a police report
• Official reports of the travel and communication expenses incurred in getting a replacement passport or travel tickets

• Best for customer satisfaction
• Best for older adults
• Best for long-term care
• Best for high returns
• Best for agent support
• Best for term life
• Why you should trust us

Best Life Insurance Companies of June 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.

Life insurance is as complicated as the policyholders and beneficiaries who use it. That means there's no single "best" life insurance company. Instead, you can find the best option based on what you want or what you prioritize.

Best Life Insurance of 2024 Summary

• Best for customer satisfaction: State Farm Life Insurance
• Best for older adults: Prudential Life Insurance
• Best for agent support: New York Life Insurance
• Best for long-term care: Columbus Life
• Best for high returns: Allianz Life
• Best for term life: North American Company

Top Life Insurance Companies of 2024

While there is no such thing as the objective best life insurance policy, you will be able to find the best insurance policy for your specific needs. Here are our picks for the best life insurance companies, whether you want to use your life insurance policy to build wealth through cash value or you're just looking for a term life insurance policy .

Best Life Insurance for Customer Satisfaction

State farm life insurance.

State Farm Life Insurance gets the best life insurance ranking in J.D Power's Individual Life Insurance Study, with a score of 843/1,000. The company is also ranked A++ with AM Best for its financial stability with term, universal, and whole life insurance options. 

All State Farm policies have to be purchased through a State Farm agent. Your agent can help you bundle and save or buy one policy. State Farm is also among the companies offering "survivorship universal life insurance ," which means the policy covers two people, and it kicks in after the second person dies. Couples looking to maximize their death benefit for beneficiaries with one premium payment each month may enjoy lower overall costs.

State Farm agents can run quotes and compare options to find the right plans for each applicant. The range of options, discounts, and familiar name all contribute to the popularity of State Farm's life insurance.

Read our State Farm Life Insurance review .

Best Life Insurance for Older Adults

Prudential life insurance.

Prudential Life Insurance is available in all states except New York. New York residents can buy the Pruco Life of New Jersey VUL Protector plan. This plan allows buyers to pull money out of their plan to pay for nursing home expenses. Cash value policy premiums are fixed, so you won't have to worry about extra costs later on. Internal costs are low, which minimizes risk. Due to age, many older adults want a safe investment option for their money. Prudential VUL Protector invests to avoid loss. That also means you're not as likely to see big increases in your available funds outside of what you deposit.

Read our Prudential Life Insurance review .

Best Life Insurance for Long-Term Care

Columbus life.

Columbus Life offers a wide range of riders to customize your policy with affordable premiums. The company also allows you to convert term policies to whole life insurance policies until the end of your term (generally around age 70). For this and many other reasons, customer satisfaction is high.

When using living health benefits (otherwise known as accelerated death benefits), buyers are allowed to pull money from policies early to pay for medical bills, living costs, etc. under certain circumstances. Most companies use a discounted death benefit, which reduces your final payout using two models. Columbus uses the lien method, which makes it easier to calculate the financial impact of pulling money out early.

Best Life Insurance for High Returns on Income

Allianz life.

Allianz Life plans are geared towards high-income adults looking for more tax-free income. Allianz offers a 40% multiplier bonus with a 1% annual assets charge. In short, the professionals managing your investments take 10%. Overall, your investments would pull in an extra 14%-1% asset charge. This means you end up with 3% more than what you deposit every year your life policy is active. This plan offers strong returns when using a life policy to supplement your retirement savings. Allianz also offers specialized plans to grow your income by as much as 20% according to some estimates.

Of note: Allianz also offers plans for foreign nationals, including those with H-1B visas.

Best Life Insurance for Agent Support

New york life insurance.

New York Life Insurance agents go through extensive training before they ever hit the sales floor. What does this get you? Policies vary widely, and New York Life offers both large and small payouts. Some policies have significant penalties for early withdrawal, but taking a loan offers more options. Whatever your questions, New York Life agents are trained to offer comprehensive support giving you accurate information about its policies every time. The company comes in at position eight in J.D. Power's latest life insurance customer satisfaction study.

Read our New York Life Insurance review here.

Best Life Insurance for Term Life

North american company.

North American Company offers term policies alongside accelerated death benefits for critical, chronic, and terminal illnesses and more. The company allows one conversion on a 20-year policy at 15 years or 70 years old (whichever is earlier). The conversion cannot happen later than the five-year marker regardless of which policy you choose or the length. North American Company also offers a term policy with a lower premium renewable up to the age of 95 for qualifying insureds.

Types of Life Insurance

While there's many different types of life insurance policies , broadly speaking, there are two types of life insurance: temporary and permanent. Let's go over each in detail.

Temporary life insurance

Temporary life insurance is often called term life insurance. This type of policy covers you for a set amount of time before expiring, usually between 10-30 years. If you pass away after your policy expires, your family won't receive any benefits. Additionally, your policy won't accrue cash value like a permanent policy. That said, some term life insurance policies offer a conversion from term to whole life insurance, so you can extend your coverage. 

Because its benefits aren't guaranteed, term life policies are generally cheaper than permanent life insurance. That said, the vast majority of term life insurance policies never pay out. on

Permanent life insurance

Permanent life insurance is an umbrella term for a variety of life insurance policies that will insure you indefinitely and guarantee a payout as long as you maintain your policy. Policy types that fall under permanent life insurance includes:

• Whole life insurance
• Universal life insurance
• Variable life insurance
• Variable universal life insurance
• Simplified life insurance
• Guaranteed issue life insurance

These policies vary widely in purpose and intended buyers, but all guarantee death benefits to your loved ones. Some permanent life insurance policies, like whole, universal, and variable have a cash value component , which you can use as a savings tool or to leave your heirs a larger death benefit.

How to Pick the Best Life Insurance Policy for You

Finding the right fit in life insurance starts with finding a trusted insurance agent. Because there are so many state regulations, shopping for homeowners or auto insurance can be easily done online. Life insurance is not required. So it's a voluntary purchase. Many buyers don't know what they need or when they need it. Before making your selection, consider a few things:

Some companies will sell you a policy for your child as soon as they're born. While this may seem morbid, early sign-up means lower rates for a policy your child could enjoy in the future. Regardless, early sign-up equates to more policy for lower premiums and a higher likelihood of acceptance. At 20, you may be healthier and be able to pay into the policy for a longer period compared to when you're 50 with more age-related conditions.

As a general rule, never agree to more than you can afford. For the average life insurance agent, their job is to sell you a large policy with a large commission. Consider not only how much you make now, but how likely your current income is to continue. If you work on a project basis and your project is scheduled to end in 12 months, you may want to reconsider a policy premium outside your monthly savings.

How much are you prepared to buy? Some people only want a small policy to cover funerals and other end-of-life expenses. Others build a life policy into their retirement plan. Whatever direction you're going, involving a financial planner could help you make the right decisions. Depending on the carrier, customers can also compare set limits with index universal life policies, which set no limit. These policies never expire, and the value builds over the entirety of your life.

Living Benefits

Life happens unexpectedly. You could be healthy one day and in the hospital the next. Many life policies offer living benefits. These allow you to draw a limited amount out of your policy to cover medical and other bills you cannot pay while sick.

Much like a 401(k), many life insurance policies have penalties for early withdrawal. No matter what policy you want, this question is critical to an informed decision. It's a question of how early you can withdraw and how much you'll lose from the total to have the money in 10 years instead of 30 or after death.

Some policies require insured parties to pay premiums for at least one year before any significant payout would be available. Suicide exclusions are common. Even with no medical exam policies, the company may still do a check for known conditions. An insurance company has to mitigate its risk.

Flexibility

Once you've been denied a life insurance policy, a mark goes on your record. No matter the reasons, other insurance companies may deny you coverage based on the first denial. So consider your whole situation and choose your policy carefully before you submit any applications. Some policies have greater flexibility if you lose your job or otherwise can't make payments. Others will lapse if you miss even one payment.

Payment Type

Even within whole life or term life insurance policies, customers have the option to choose guaranteed fixed or variable rates. Some have guaranteed payouts, but you'll need to ask your agent for details.

What is your intended use? Why are you shopping for a life insurance policy in the first place, and what are your goals? Many successful financial planners also have a background in life insurance. So while they may not be able to find you a specific life insurance policy, financial planners can help you set out a blueprint for your purchase.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed the Best Life Insurance Companies

In life insurance, it's easy to get "sold a bill of goods." Many life insurance agents pass a state test to be thrown into the deep end. Agents sell the company product, but not all know the products. In this vein, we look at the products each company offers. We also look at agent training.

A good life insurance agent may not volunteer all facts upfront. But a company's agents should answer questions about its products accurately and in a way the average consumer can digest. Agents should be able to inform you about the long-term benefits and limitations. This will help customers find the right policy for their long-term plan.

We consider affordability, policy sizes available, and performance for a comprehensive assessment in our life insurance rating methodology . If you can, we recommend also working with a financial advisor to make a plan for your future with life insurance.

Our Expert Panel for The Best Life Insurance Companies

To inform our choices for the best life insurance companies, we spoke with the following experts:

• Paul LaPiana , head of product at MassMutual
• Barbara Pietrangelo , CFP, CLU, and chair of the nonprofit Life Happens
• Wykeeta Peel , Corporate Vice President and Market Manager, African American Market Unit at New York Life

The Experts' Advice on Choosing The Best Life Insurance for You

How much life insurance coverage do you believe the average buyer should have.

Paul LaPiana, Head of Product at MassMutual

"There are different approaches to determining how much life insurance you need. One is the 'human life' approach, which estimates the current value of your future earning potential. Another is securing specific coverage to pay off debts such as a mortgage or provide for the education of children. A comprehensive protection plan should provide the right amount of coverage over the course of your working life and into retirement."

Barbara A. Pietrangelo, Chair of Life Happens

"There is no one-size-fits-all life insurance policy because everyone is different. One way to get a rough estimate is to multiply your income by 10 to 15; another is adding $100,00 to that amount, should you have a child and anticipate college education expenses.

Your best bet is to talk to a financial professional or use the Life Insurance Needs Calculator on LifeHappens.org to analyze what's right for you."

Wykeeta Peel, Corporate Vice President & Market Manager African American Market Unit at New York Life

"As you consider what policy best meets your needs, it can help to answer four key questions: First, how much death benefit do you need? Second, how long will you need that coverage? Third, what is your budget (or how much monthly premium can you afford to pay?), and finally, what is your investment risk tolerance?

To determine how much death benefit makes sense, it's helpful to think beyond using life insurance to cover funeral expenses and consider whether anyone is relying on the policy owner's income to maintain a lifestyle, pay rent or a mortgage, or fund a child's education and for how long.

There are various rules of thumb regarding the right amount of Life insurance coverage. Some tips can be found online, but they only provide an estimate and don't necessarily factor in an individual's specific needs. In my opinion, human guidance, powered by technology, is required. Basically, it comes down to how much money your loved ones would need to remain on firm financial ground if your earnings were no longer in the picture and that is different for everyone."

What is the biggest opportunity you see for improvement in the life insurance industry?

"Increased accessibility through digital and other channels as well as through underwriting enhancements. Increased tailoring of products and features. And an increased emphasis on health and wellness programs."

"Having enough qualified insurance professionals to walk potential buyers through the multiple benefits of life insurance will be pivotal to the growth of the industry. Education is a key factor here, as professional agents also need to be able to explain life insurance and its benefits in an easy, digestible way, especially when there are so many misconceptions about life insurance."

"The need for life insurance is greater than ever. In fact, a recent New York Life Wealth Watch survey found that 37% of adults have been thinking about life insurance more often these days – and half of adults report that financial products that provide protection (50%) and reliability (50%) are more important now compared to last year. This may be especially true for middle-market and Cultural Market families.

Our organizational structure of having Cultural Market agents embedded in the communities where we live and work allows us to understand the needs of diverse communities and develop solutions that resonate with them."

What advice would you give to buyers who are debating whether or not to buy life insurance?

"It is difficult to say with any certainty how healthy you will be years from now. That's why securing life insurance, and insuring your insurability, today, when you are the youngest you'll ever be again, and perhaps your healthiest is a wise decision."

"Do you love someone? If the answer is yes, then life insurance is certainly something you should consider. Many buy gifts and experiences to express their love, but haven't considered that life insurance is just another way to say I love you. Nothing says support like ensuring your family's financial security and peace of mind."

"If you have someone depending on your income, you should consider purchasing life insurance. A death benefit from a life insurance policy can replace income from the loss of a breadwinner, ensure a family can stay in their home, fund educational or retirement expenses, address debt and so much more.

A life insurance policy can also help you grow your family's wealth over time. Once the risk of an unexpected loss has been managed, you can begin to think more broadly about your family's financial future. Life insurance can enable your mindset to shift from death to growth."

What's the most important thing buyers should look for when choosing a life insurance agent/company to buy from?

"With life insurance, you are securing a future commitment that may be decades away. Research the company behind the policy to ensure it has high financial strength ratings, longevity, and an excellent track record of paying claims."

"When looking for an insurance agent or company, be sure to do your research. When comparing companies, be sure to remember that the policy features that fit you and your loved ones best is the most important factor. Don't automatically assume you should buy from the higher-rated company.

If the policy from the other company has more of what you're looking for, it might be the better choice. If you're unsure where to start, try the Life Happens Agent Locator to find an insurance professional in your area."

• "The insurers' track record: At its core, life insurance is protection - a hedge against the unexpected - and you are paying premiums in exchange for the promise that the insurer will be there when you need them, so the financial strength and track record of the company backing your policy is critical.
• Customer service: Are service professionals available by phone and digital channels? Is there is an online dashboard where you can manage your policy? Beyond ensuring assistance is available after you purchase a policy, it's also critical to ensure you have access to trusted advice and guidance before you buy.
• Flexibility in conversion: How easy is it to change? Life can be unpredictable and while term insurance can cover your loved ones through a critical period of time, you may decide that access to cash value is an important piece of your strategy.
• Accelerated online applications : Online applications are convenient but don't replace human guidance. Keep in mind that accelerated online applications may have a maximum coverage amount, meaning that you may not be able to get all the coverage you may need exclusively through an online process.
• A range of payment options: It's important to understand how often you're required to make premium payments and whether and how often you can change the frequency of payments."

Best Life Insurance FAQs

According to JD Power's 2023 life insurance study, State Farm is the highest-rated life insurance company when it comes to overall customer satisfaction. However, you still may want to shop around for quotes from various insurers if you're looking to purchase a new policy.

There isn't one best life insurance company, because the best option for you will depend on the type of policy you're looking for. It's best to work with a qualified insurance agent to help you find the best coverage. If you're deciding between multiple similar options, it's also worth consulting J.D. Power's life insurance customer satisfaction study . The latest study ranks State Farm as the top pick for individual life insurance, outpacing Nationwide by three points.

The best type of life insurance policy for you will differ from someone else's, as your policy should be tailored to your needs. The best policy for you will be affordable and will offer the benefits best suited to your situation. For example, some policies are only meant to cover end-of-life expenses such as burial and funeral arrangements, whereas others include living benefits like a cash value insurance plan , which you can borrow against during your lifetime.

Some life insurance policies are advertised as "no medical exam." This doesn't mean the insurer won't ask you about known conditions or look at medical records. Policies with no medical exam also tend to offer lower benefits with higher premiums. Most companies have a network of medical examiners, some of whom can come to your home. You can find our guide on the best no exam life insurance here.

Each situation is different and requires a knowledgeable life insurance agent to assess your best options. Bring all your questions and the coverage you're looking for to an insurance agent near you to explore your options.

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Can You Buy Travel Insurance for Road Trips?

After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure. She previously worked as a reporter for The Points Guy. Her writing has since been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When she's not flying, you'll usually find her in a Priority Pass lounge somewhere, sipping tea and cursing slow Wi-Fi.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

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 .

Table of Contents

How road trip insurance works

How to choose between road trip travel insurance companies, best plans for road trip travel insurance, other tips for road trip travel insurance, top cards with travel insurance for road trips, road trip travel insurance recapped.

There’s nothing quite like breezing down a highway with the windows down, the wind in your hair and a cooler full of sodas in the back seat. Whether you’re traveling alone or enjoying a road trip with friends or family, you’ll want to be sure that you’re covered with travel protections on your drive. This is as true whether you're embarking on a classic American road trip — like U.S. Route 66 — are or braving the roadways in a foreign country, in your own car or a rented vehicle.

Let’s take a look at road trip travel insurance, how it works and the best plans for auto travel insurance to suit your needs.

Road trips aren't immune to disruptions, and road trip insurance works similarly to travel insurance . Most plans require purchase before your trip begins and cover your prepaid expenses.

For rental cars

Not all third-party travel insurance policies automatically include coverage for a rental vehicle. Seek out plans that provide rental car insurance specifically — or book your car with a credit card that offers these specific protections .

Rental car travel insurance policies generally protect against damage to the rental vehicle only. Causes not within your control, such as collision, theft, vandalism, windstorm, fire, hail or flood damage are typically covered.

Because of the limited scope of rental car insurance, know that you may be on the hook if you’re liable for damage to other vehicles or if there’s bodily injury.

When picking up your rental car, you will likely be offered the insurance sold by the rental car company at the counter, typically called a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). You can decline this protection if you have sufficient coverage elsewhere (e.g., via a third-party policy or a credit card).

For your personal vehicle

Getting road trip insurance for your own vehicle isn't as common as travel insurance for rental cars , but it can still be a valuable consideration depending on your situation. For instance, access to roadside assistance can provide peace of mind if you are driving for long stretches in rural areas.

Finally, road tripping doesn’t end at driving a car. Other trip protections you may consider including in a travel insurance policy include medical evacuation, trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption coverage and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance . This is true whether you opt to drive your own vehicle or rent one for your trip.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

With several travel insurance companies out there, it can be difficult to narrow down the one you really need. Before buying, always get quotes from multiple businesses.

This is because coverage levels and prices can vary dramatically. Insurance aggregators such as InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) allow you to generate multiple quotes at once, plus they include filters for sorting so you can find the right policy for you.

Here are a few things to consider when looking for road trip insurance:

Whether you’re renting a car.

Where you're traveling.

Whether you already have car insurance. 

What types of coverage you’re interested in.

If you’re also planning on flying, cruising or using a ferry. 

How long you’ll be gone.

The cost of the plan.

To figure out the best road travel insurance, we combed a variety of insurance providers to check out their offerings.

Our quotes were built using a hypothetical 37-year-old from California taking a road trip throughout the United States. The total trip time was 15 days, and the total trip cost was $2,700. Here were the top contenders.

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel SE plan came out significantly cheaper than competitors’ plans at just $100.43. This includes primary rental car coverage and a whole host of trip protections.

$40,000 in rental car coverage — $5,000 more than similar plans.

$250,000 in primary emergency medical coverage . 

Pre-existing conditions covered. 

Rental car coverage is only for collision, theft or damage to the vehicle.

$40,000 rental car coverage maximum. 

AD&D doesn’t cover strokes or any cardiac events.

HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide is another top option for travel insurance for car trips. Coming in at $185.29, the TripProtector Preferred plan provides up to $35,000 for rental car coverage, as well as other unique coverage options.

Covers additional kennel fees for your pet if you’re delayed. 

Includes $500,000 in primary emergency medical coverage.

Offers up to $200 to reinstate frequent traveler rewards, which is handy if you booked hotels on points for your trip.

Max of $35,000 in rental car coverage.

Repatriation of remains covers just $25,000.

Coverage excludes trucks, campers, motor bikes, recreational vehicles and exotic vehicles (defined as antique, limited production or collectible car or any other private passenger vehicle with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price over $75,000).

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services

USI Affinity’s Diamond plan rang in at $187, just a little more than HTH Worldwide’s plan. While it includes rental car insurance, the limit is quite low, making this a better option for those who are driving their own vehicles.

Travel delay starting at six hours.

$1 million limit for medical evacuation and repatriation. 

$50,000 limit for 24-hour AD&D. 

$1,000 rental car insurance maximum.

$100 deductible for rental car insurance. 

Maximum trip length of 30 days. 

AXA Assistance USA

AXA Assistance USA is our final recommendation due to its nonmedical evacuation policy, which will transport you to safety during a natural disaster or time of political or civil unrest. This can be especially important if you plan on driving somewhere remote with unknown weather conditions. The total for AXA’s Gold plan came in at $215.

$50,000 in nonmedical evacuation. 

$35,000 in rental car coverage. 

Includes coverage for sporting equipment. 

Minimum 12-hour travel delay before benefits kick in.

$25,000 limit for 24-hour AD&D.

Max of $35,000 in rental car coverage. 

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We’ve gathered a few other tips for road trip travel insurance for you, so be sure to consider these before purchasing a policy:

Check out your own auto insurance policy. Within the U.S., your personal policy will usually also cover you when you drive a rental car.

Consider getting a travel credit card. Many travel credit cards include complimentary travel insurance as a benefit.

Secondary policies pay out after other options have been exhausted, but if you don’t have primary coverage, they automatically become primary. Keep this in mind when comparing plans. 

Waive the rental company's insurance and pay for your car with one these travel cards to get complimentary insurance on your rental and more:

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Primary rental car coverage: Up to the cash value of most rental vehicles.

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

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

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

• Primary rental car coverage: Up to $75,000.

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

• Secondary rental car coverage: Up to $75,000.

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

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

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

Terms apply.

It’s important to ensure that you’re covered when you’re traveling, whether that’s by airplane, trains or automobiles. Depending on where you’re going, you may already have coverage — but do your due diligence and check first.

If not, consider getting a travel insurance policy that’ll cover your road trip, both for peace of mind and safety when you’re away from home.

American Express travel insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

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

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

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

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

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

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.