backpacker travel insurance with covid cover

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The Best Backpacker Travel Insurance (2024)

Explore our top picks for travel insurance for backpacking trips and compare options to find the right coverage below.

with our partner, Travelinsurance.com

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

The best travel insurance for backpacking trips is Travelex due to its affordable coverage for mult-destination trips. Travelex offers three plan options and a Travel America plan for backpackers making their way across the states.

From beachfront hostels in Thailand to campgrounds in Europe, a backpacker insurance policy can help you enjoy your adventure with peace of mind. Whether you’re traveling as a digital nomad or launching into adventure sports like trekking or scuba diving, travel insurance can cover the cost of unforeseen events or accidents during short or long-term backpacking trips.

Key Features To Look For in Backpacker Travel Insurance

Backpacker travel insurance is subject to your individual needs. According to the U.S. Department of State, the government does not cover medical bills overseas. Therefore, the agency recommends travel medical emergency insurance, especially if you’re participating in adventure activities. However, not all travel insurance companies cover adventure sports.

Trip interruption insurance can help you prepare for potential cancellations and flight delays, offering reimbursement of prepaid costs if interruptions occur for a covered reason. Emergency evacuation coverage is important in the event of natural disasters or civil unrest, especially if you plan on adventuring in rural areas. Ensuring your policy offers baggage and personal effects coverage also offers a financial safety net for lost or stolen belongings, including sporting gear.

While you may be able to find basic travel insurance with these features, the benefit limits may vary. It’s also important to note that not all policies cover adventure sports gear or medical expenses. Make sure to look for a plan with this coverage if you plan on adding sporting events to your backpacking trip.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Providers for Backpackers

Here is our list of travel insurance plans and providers to suit backpackers:

• Travelex Insurance: Our top pick
• AIG Travel Guard : Our pick for families
• IMG Travel Insurance : Our pick for medical coverage
• Allianz Global Assistance: Our pick for concierge services
• World Nomads: Our pick for adventure travelers

Compare Backpacking Travel Insurance Companies

We requested online quotes for our top travel insurance providers so you can see how much coverage costs . The chart below includes estimates for a 25-year-old backpacker from New York taking a three-week trip to Mexico, with a total trip cost of $2,500. Quotes are for basic plans with travel medical insurance, trip cancellation coverage and more. We also included unique coverage options, including cancel for any reason or CFAR coverage.

Why Trust MarketWatch Guides

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

Companies Reviewed

Quotes Collected

Rating Factors

Best Backpacker Insurance in Detail

You can choose from three plans with Travelex Insurance: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. Travel Basic is a budget-friendly option for backpackers with sufficient coverage. Five optional upgrades are available with the more comprehensive Travel Select Plan, with a $50,000 limit for emergency medical costs.

If you are planning to backpack around the U.S., the Travel America plan provides emergency medical expenses and reimbursement for canceled events, such as ski resort closures.

Pros & Cons

Coverage & cost.

Add-On Options

Travelex offers a variety of add-on options, depending on the plan you choose. Upgrades include:

• CFAR coverage
• Car rental collision
• Adventure sports coverage
• Additional medical coverage
• Flight accidental death and dismemberment

Based on our quote process, the Travel Basic Plan costs $87 for a 25-year-old traveler on a 20-day trip to Spain worth $3,000.

If you’re looking for a travel insurance policy for backpacking as a family, AIG Travel Guard plans include coverage for one child under age 17 with the rate for a paying adult. The Deluxe Plan offers high-level medical evacuation and healthcare coverage up to $100,000, while

the Preferred Plan features up to $50,000 for travel medical costs.

If you are on a budget during long-term backpacking trips, the Essential Plan covers the basics, with 24/7 emergency assistance and medical care coverage up to $15,000. The Pack N’ Go Plan is available if you plan a trip last minute and don’t need cancellation coverage.

AIG Travel Guard provides a range of add-ons depending on your chosen plan. Some examples include:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage
• Rental vehicle damage coverage
• Security evacuations and interruptions bundle
• Adventure sports bundle
• Medical bundle
• Wedding bundle
• Baggage bundle

Based on the quote we requested for a 25-year-old backpacker traveling to Spain for 20 days on a $3,000 trip, the Essential Plan would cost $134.

*AM Best ratings are accurate as of June 2023.

From rafting to skydiving and bungee jumping, extreme sports fans can take advantage of IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Sport Plan. It includes sports equipment rental reimbursement and natural disaster evacuation coverage.

For long backpacking trips, the most affordable option is the iTravelInsured Travel Lite Plan, which includes benefits for trip cancellation, travel delays and emergency medical assistance. You can also opt for more comprehensive options with the iTravelInsured Travel SE and iTravelInsured Travel LX plans.

IMG offers the following add-ons with the iTravelInsured Travel LX plan:

• Interrupt for any reason (IFAR) coverage (up to 75% of trip costs)
• CFAR coverage (up to 75% of the trip costs)

Based on our quote, the iTravelInsured Travel Lite Plan would cost $83 for a 25-year-old traveler backpacking around Spain for a 20-day trip worth $3,000.

Allianz offers a range of affordable plans for backpackers, including the AllTrips Basic Plan, a multi-trip policy with year-long protection. Or, if you’re primarily looking for health insurance and have a flexible itinerary with minimal prepaid expenses, you can save money with the OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan. It only covers post-departure benefits, including unexpected events after your trip begins.

While Allianz also provides comprehensive insurance policies, budget travelers may prefer the OneTrip Basic plan for affordable, all-around coverage.

Allianz Global provides the following add-on options, which you can add depending on your plan:

• OneTrip Rental Car Protector
• Terrorism Extension cover
• Required to Work cover

Based on our quote, the OneTrip Basic Plan would cost $91 for a 25-year-old backpacker taking a 20-day trip to Spain for $3,000.

Whether you love Alpine skiing or rock climbing, World Nomads is a popular choice for adventurous backpackers. Its two policies, the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan, cover over 200 adventure activities and sports. The main difference between the plans is the Explorer Plan offers higher coverage limits.

World Nomads offers rental car damage coverage with the Explorer Plan.

We pulled quotes for both plans for a 25-year-old backpacker taking a 20-day trip to Spain. You could expect to pay $96 for the Standard Plan and $180 for the Explorer Plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Backpacking Insurance

Everyone’s different, so choosing the best insurance for your backpacking trip means considering your personal needs. Ask yourself the following questions as you consider travel insurance policies:

• Does the travel insurance cover all the destinations you want to visit?
• How long is your backpacking trip and if needed, does the policy suit long-term travel?
• Does the policy include sufficient medical coverage for potential health issues or participation in sports?
• Are there adequate coverage limits for baggage, gear and high-value equipment?
• Does the policy sufficiently cover missed activities and flight cancellations ?
• Do you require coverage for a pre-existing conditio n and if so, does the policy include a waiver?

If you are planning a long-term backpacking trip, pay attention to the duration of your travel insurance policy. For example, if you apply for a multi-trip plan with six months versus a year of coverage. And if you plan to trek around the globe, make sure your policy includes your intended destinations.

It also helps to check the coverage you already have before purchasing a policy. For example, your credit card may include rental car coverage or other forms of travel insurance.

What Does Travel Insurance Not Cover?

Most travel insurance plans cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations and delays , and baggage loss or theft. However, most policies don’t cover the following:

• Alcohol and drug-related incidents
• Extreme sports such as cliff diving
• Non-emergency medical treatment
• Flexibility in trip cancelation, such as changing your mind about flights or destinations
• Incidents due to negligence

Some providers may offer add-on coverage for extreme sports, non-emergency medical treatment and cancellation flexibility (CFAR coverage).

Travel Tips for Comparing Backpacker Insurance

Before buying travel insurance, it’s important to shop around, compare prices and read customer reviews. We suggest obtaining online quotes from at least three providers before selecting a policy.

Once you’ve found a few options that suit your coverage needs and budget, read the policy documents to ensure the coverage is right for you. Look for any exclusions or limits that may impact your coverage, such as a lack of adventure sports protection. If you don’t understand something, speak to the provider directly before making your decision.

Is Backpacking Travel Insurance Worth It?

Backpacking is often an adventure of a lifetime, but it is also an investment. Safeguarding your prepaid and nonrefundable costs, along with having financial safety nets for unforeseen medical emergencies, can help you enjoy a stress-free journey.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if backpacking travel insurance is worth it . If you’re planning to launch into adventure activities, top providers such as World Nomads, IMG and Travelex offer extra coverage. You can also opt for a basic plan from Allianz or choose AIG Travel Guard if you need coverage for a child. Regardless of your choice, each of our top providers can provide affordable options with sufficient coverage for backpackers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for Backpacking Trips

Should i purchase travel insurance for a backpacking trip.

While your need for travel insurance is up to you, purchasing a policy can be worth it. Travel insurance for backpacking can cover medical costs in an emergency. Policies can also safeguard you against financial loss by providing reimbursements if your trip is canceled or delayed or your baggage or gear gets stolen. Some providers offer add-ons to cover rental car damage, highly valuable items and more.

What type of insurance do you need for backpacking?

The type of insurance you need depends on your destination, the duration of your trip and the activities you plan to do. At a minimum, backpackers should consider a policy with the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation , interruption and delay
• Emergency medical expenses
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation
• Lost or stolen baggage

Consider policies with adequate add-on coverage, like if you plan on participating in adventure sports or need a rental car.

What is the difference between backpacking insurance and travel insurance?

Backpacking insurance is simply a type of travel insurance with coverage tailored to backpackers. While some providers offer adventure-specific policies, you may find that a standard travel insurance plan suits your backpacking trip. Researching policy options can help you find coverage for your unique needs, including annual multi-trip plans for long-term trips.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance Companies for Backpacking Trips

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

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• Travel insurance for parents visiting USA
• Best travel medical insurance plans
• How much does travel insurance cost?

If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at  editors@marketwatchguides. com .

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Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance in June 2024

Natasha is a freelance writer and frequent traveler. She writes about luxury travel, travel hacking and credit card rewards. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them.

Meghan Coyle started as a web producer and writer at NerdWallet in 2018. She covers travel rewards, including industry news, airline and hotel loyalty programs, and how to travel on points. She is based in Los Angeles.

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

Factors we considered when picking travel insurance that covers COVID

An overview of the best travel insurance for covid , top travel insurance for covid options , additional resources for covid-19 travel insurance shoppers.

No matter how well you prepare, travel plans don’t always go as expected. Some travelers buy travel insurance to protect their investment in prepaid travel costs. Amid the ongoing pandemic, exploring travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is recommended. With the right policy, you can protect yourself if you need to cancel your trip or end it early due to illness. Many insurers offer travel insurance policies with this kind of coverage. 

This is the shortlist of the best travel insurance for COVID options: 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . 

John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.  

Seven Corners . 

Travelex Insurance Services . 

Travel Insured International . 

WorldTrips . 

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight in our best travel insurance for COVID list: 

Range of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered with COVID-19 coverage, plus the range of available plans. 

Depth of coverage: We compared the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims between carriers and plans.

Medical benefits: We examined whether plans included emergency medical benefits for COVID-19 reasons and whether plans included medical evacuation and repatriation benefits. 

Cost: We determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices by looking at the basic coverage costs for plans with COVID-19 benefits across multiple companies.

We looked at quotes from various companies for a six-night trip in May 2023 to Croatia. The traveler was 30 years old, from Texas and planned to spend $1,500 on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan with COVID-19 coverage was $47.22. The prices listed below are for the most basic COVID-19 travel insurance coverage. All insurers offer multiple COVID-19 policies with greater coverage coming at a higher cost. 

Let's take a closer look at our eight recommendations for travel insurance with COVID coverage: 

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

What makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Several plans allow policyholders to cancel for COVID-19 sickness as part of trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance benefits. 

Several plans include COVID-19 medical coverage benefits.

Medical evacuation benefits are included in these plans. 

Plans include limited sports and activities coverage and sports equipment loss benefits. 

Basic Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection will run you $50 for an ExactCare Value policy, the company’s most basic COVID-19 travel insurance coverage option.

What makes IMG great:

Many plans include COVID-19 cancellation benefits.

Most of these plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits (the Travel Essentials plan doesn’t include this). 

Medical evacuation coverage is available on select plans. 

Coverage for adventure travel is available for an extra cost. 

IMG is a good option for the budget-minded: Its Travel Essential plans cost more than $10 less than average based on our comparison. 

John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. 

What makes John Hancock Insurance Agency great:

Multiple plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancellation coverage. 

These plans offer COVID-19 medical benefits.

Medical evacuation coverage is included in all COVID-19 coverage plans. 

The John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. basic plan (Bronze) costs $56. 

Seven Corners

What makes Seven Corners great:

Multiple plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

These plans include COVID-19 medical benefits and evacuation and repatriation benefits.

There is no medical deductible. 

Seven Corners’ basic coverage plan (RoundTrip Basic) for our trip to Croatia costs $44.

Travelex Insurance Services

What makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Multiple plans include Covid-19 sickness coverage, which reimburses prepaid and nonrefundable trip payments if a trip is canceled or interrupted due to a traveler contracting the virus.

These plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits.

Medical evacuation and repatriation benefits are included. 

Basic coverage (Travel Basic) from Travelex Insurance Services costs $44 for our sample trip, which is slightly cheaper than average. 

Travel Insured International

What makes Travel Insured International great:

Multiple plans cover COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

These plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits, including medical evacuation. 

Limited sports and activities coverage is included in plans with COVID-19 coverage. 

Travel Insured International's basic coverage (Worldwide Trip Protector Edge) begins at $55 — only a few dollars more than the average basic policy price. 

What makes Tin Leg great:

A wide range of plans offer COVID-19 cancellation benefits as part of the included trip interruption and trip cancelation coverage. 

All of these plans also include COVID-19 medical benefits. 

All of these include medical evacuation benefits. 

An adventure travel policy is available. 

Another plus: Tin Leg’s basic coverage plan (Basic) for our trip to Croatia costs $48.85 — making it right around the average price for the policies we covered. 

WorldTrips 

What makes WorldTrips great:

Several plans include medical coverage for COVID-19. 

Sports and activities and sports equipment loss are included. 

Coverage can be extended for up to thirty days, including for medical quarantine purposes. 

WorldTrips’ most affordable plan with COVID-19 coverage (Atlas Journey Economy) starts at $44, making it a low-cost option. 

Do you want to learn more about travel insurance before you spend money on a policy? Take a look at these resources: 

What is travel insurance?  

What does travel insurance cover? 

The best travel insurance companies 

How to find the right travel insurance for you

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance

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

on Chase's website

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

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.

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

U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

The 5 Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

World Nomads Travel Insurance »

Generali Global Assistance »

IMG Travel Insurance »

Why Trust Us

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

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance
• World Nomads Travel Insurance

Even though COVID-19 is no longer considered a global emergency, concerns around illness-related costs remain for many travelers. If you're looking for travel insurance that covers COVID – as well as other potential disruptions like flight delays and lost luggage – these are your best options.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best Optional Coverage Add-ons
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Multitrip and Annual Plans
• World Nomads Travel Insurance: Best for Active Travelers
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• IMG Travel Insurance: Best for Travel Medical Insurance

Plans include coverage for COVID-19

Optional CFAR coverage is available with Travel Select plan

Some coverages require an upgrade, including rental car collision, accidental death and dismemberment, and more

Not all add-ons are available with every plan

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Allianz offers some travel insurance plans that come with an epidemic coverage endorsement

Single-trip, multitrip and annual plans available

COVID-19 benefits don't apply to every plan

Low coverage limits with some plans (e.g., only $10,000 in emergency medical coverage with OneTrip Basic plan)

24-hour travel assistance services included

More than 200 sports and activities covered in every plan

Low trip cancellation benefits ($2,500 maximum) with Standard plan

No CFAR option is offered

Free 10-day trial period

Some coverage limits may be insufficient

Rental car damage coverage only included in top-tier Premium plan

Offers travel medical insurance, international travel health insurance and general travel insurance plans

Some plans include robust coverage for testing and quarantine due to COVID-19

Not all plans from IMG offer coverage for COVID-19

Cancel for any reason coverage not available with every plan

Frequently Asked Questions

When comparing COVID-19 travel insurance options, you'll want to make sure you fully understand the coverages included in each plan. For example, you should know the policy inclusions and limits for COVID-related claims, including coverage for testing, treatments, trip cancellation or COVID-related interruptions that can occur. Meanwhile, you should understand how your coverage will work if you contract some other illness while away from home.

Also ensure your travel insurance coverage will kick in for other mishaps that occur, and that limits are sufficient for your needs. If you're planning a trip to a remote area in a country like Costa Rica or Peru , you'll want to have emergency evacuation and transportation coverage with generous limits that can pay for emergency transportation to a hospital if you need treatment.

You can also invest in a travel insurance policy that offers cancel for any reason coverage. This type of travel insurance plan lets you cancel and get a percentage of your prepaid travel expenses back for any reason, even if you just decide you're better off staying home.

It depends on your private health insurance provider and/or travel insurance policy. As of May 11, 2023, private health insurers are no longer required to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing. Out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 test kits at local drugstores and on Amazon are relatively affordable, however.

As you search for plans that will provide sufficient coverage for your next trip, you'll find travel insurance that covers COVID-19 quarantine both inside and outside the United States. However, you'll typically need to have your condition certified by a physician in order for this coverage to apply. Also make sure your travel insurance plan includes coverage for travel claims related to COVID-19 in the first place.

Many travel insurance plans do cover trip cancellation as a result of COVID-19, although the terms vary widely. You typically need to be certified by a physician in order to prove your condition. Disinclination to travel because of COVID-19 – such as fear of exposure to illness – will generally not be covered. This means you will actually have to test positive for coronavirus for benefits to apply; simply not wanting to travel is not a sufficient reason to make a claim.

If you want more flexibility in your COVID-19 travel insurance, ensuring you have a cancel for any reason policy may be your best bet, but be sure to check with your chosen travel insurance provider to assess your options.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning writer who has been covering travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched the best travel insurance options for her own trips to more than 50 countries around the world and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. Over the years, Johnson has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations. Johnson also works alongside her travel agent partner, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states.

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How do you choose travel insurance that covers COVID-19?

Oct 26, 2021 • 5 min read

COVID-19 has made it more important to check the health coverage on your travel insurance © Maskot/Getty Images

After 18 months of pandemic-related travel restrictions, you may be itching to act on your pent-up wanderlust⁠⁠—but the situation and the rules are still continuously evolving. So before you go anywhere, it’s best to have a travel insurance plan that protects the investment you’ve made in a long-awaited trip.

A robust travel insurance plan will reimburse pre-paid trip costs and non-refundable deposits if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip, encounter trip delays, experience baggage loss or require medical expense and medical evacuation. Your policy will also reimburse “covered reasons” in your plan, such as death, illness or injury, serious family emergencies, unplanned jury duty, military deployment, acts of terrorism, or your travel supplier going out of business.

But COVID-19 has added an additional checklist to your usual insurance needs⁠—it’s now important to check to ensure your travel insurance plan includes coverage for COVID-19 medical expenses, and losses related to illness. Your policy should also cover quarantine costs if you need to self-isolate after testing positive for the virus.

What do I look for in COVID-19 insurance coverage?

When you’re shopping for a travel insurance plan that covers COVID-19, you need to do your research and read the fine print of your plan. 

Look for a travel insurance product that will protect your non-refundable, prepaid expenses if you have to cancel your trip due to illness caused by COVID-19. Your policy should also cover emergency medical treatment and emergency medical transportation. With regard to COVID-19 coverage, be sure your policy covers medical care, medicine, hospitalization and quarantine expenses.

“The type of coverage you should look for depends on you, your needs, travel dates, and the type of trip you’re taking,” says Sasha Gainullin, CEO of battleface , a travel insurance carrier. He says some travel insurance companies have now excluded COVID-19 coverage because it has been labeled a “known/foreseeable event”, while others may exclude pandemics altogether.

“It’s important to search for plans that include medical and quarantine expenses as well⁠—this will be critical in the event you become ill and need to receive treatment while traveling,” continues Gainullin. 

One additional tip is to confirm there are no exclusions based on the destinations you’re traveling to⁠—this can happen with countries under government-issued travel warnings, Gainullin says.

“If a traveler feels uncertain, I recommend speaking with the travel insurance company directly. They can review the policy details with you, answer all of your questions, and confirm all of your required coverage options are included,” he adds.

Is getting coverage dependent on vaccination?

While it’s a good idea to be fully vaccinated before traveling, vaccination is not required to purchase a travel insurance policy, says Daniel Durazo, spokesperson with Allianz Partners USA.

What are the medical costs that are covered by travel insurance?

Travel insurance can cover the cost of both medical treatment and emergency medical transportation. A US health insurance plan, as well as Medicare, generally will not cover overseas medical expenses, so it’s best to check with your personal health insurance provider if any global coverage is available. 

“While losing the cost of a trip due to an unexpected cancellation would be painful, paying for expensive emergency medical treatment or emergency medical transportation can be financially devastating,” Durazo says.  

Under a travel insurance plan, medical costs could range doctor visits, pharmacy expenses, imaging costs and covering a hospital stay if required. Other expenses that can be covered are transportation to medical care and medicine.

Read more:  Will my health insurance cover getting COVID-19 while traveling in the US⁠⁠—or abroad?

What about covering an unexpected quarantine due to COVID-19?

Many international destinations are now requiring that visitors purchase travel insurance coverage for an unexpected quarantine. Allianz Travel Insurance has added coverage to many of its products that includes reimbursement for quarantine-related accommodations if you or a traveling companion is individually-ordered to quarantine while on their trip, says Durazo. 

This coverage typically covers the cost of additional food, lodging and transportation while quarantined. In addition, trip interruption and travel delay benefits on certain Allianz plans also provide coverage if you or your travel companion is denied boarding by your travel carrier due to suspicion of illness.

The benefits for quarantine coverage vary from carrier to carrier. For example, on select Trawick International plans, they offer $2,000 in quarantine benefits and for an additional charge, and you can increase it up to $7,000. 

What about pre-flight COVID-19 testing?

Your plan may provide coverage for flights if you are turned away at a border for not passing a health inspection. Foster says Trawick’s travel insurance plans that cover COVID-19 would cover the expenses if you could not pass your pre-health inspection.  Also, the plan would cover the costs of the failure of your PCR test to return to the United States, such as having to quarantine abroad. 

It’s important to note that the actual cost of the PCR test is not covered by your policy, just the loss associated with the negative test.

Read more:  PCR tests for travel: everything you need to know

Some destinations require COVID-specific insurance coverage⁠—how do I comply with those restrictions? 

Before any international travel, you should check the country where you are headed to make sure you comply with insurance coverage requirements. Countries like Spain, Turks and Caicos and Thailand are among the nations that mandate COVID-19 insurance coverage.

“You first must check the countries’ specific COVID regulations for entry into the country. Some countries require travelers to provide proof of travel insurance that covers COVID-19 related expenses purchased from a third party,” explains Foster. Providing proof coverage is key; so travelers need to ensure they receive documentation from their insurance provider that their policy covers COVID-19 related expenses to show customs officials, she says.

Should you arrive in a country that requires proof of insurance to cover COVID-19 medical expenses and quarantine costs, and you don’t hold a policy, you will not be granted entry.

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out Lonely Planet's Health Hub .

You may also like:  What happens if I'm denied entry to a country on arrival? What is a vaccine passport and do I need one to travel? What is the IATA Travel Pass and do I need it to travel?

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6 Best Travel Insurance For USA with Covid-19 Coverage

The U.S. finally reopened for international visitors after nearly two years of strict travel bans. Considering a trip there? Even though you might be vaccinated, which is now one of the key requirements to enter the U.S. for foreign nationals, you are still at risk of contracting and spreading the virus.

Additional expenses might come with COVID-19 hospitalization and treatment. And as we are committed to supporting the health and well-being of our fellow travelers, we have chosen the 5 best insurance plans to have your back even if you travel to the U.S. during the coronavirus crisis.

So read on. These are the 5 best COVID-19 insurance plans for traveling, working, living, or studying in the U.S.

Best Covid Travel Insurance For the U.S.

• SafetyWing Travel Insurance – Best Rated
• Explore North America® Plus
• CoverAmerica – Gold Insurance – The Best Benefits
• Staysure Travel Insurance – Best for U.K. Travelers
• Allianz Travel Insurance – Most Trusted
• Travel Insurance Select® – Best for couples and Families

1. SafetyWing Travel Insurance – BEST RATED

This travel medical insurance is the best option for travelers to U.S. It is also a great choice for both short and long-term tourists or remote workers.

• Safety Wing covers COVID-19 the same way as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.
• It covers you in your home country as well, as long as your visit there is incidental.
• Since April 15, 2021, it covers quarantine outside your home country of $50/day for up to 10 days. Note that the quarantine can be covered only once a year and if mandated by a physician or governmental authority.
• SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is also pretty affordable . Depending on your age, the prices are as follows for a 4-week period: 10-39 years old: USD 76.72, 40-49 years old: USD 126.56. For other age groups, you can find the prices here.
• Testing for COVID-19 is covered only if deemed necessary by a physician. That is rather inconvenient, as most countries require testing before entry.
• It does not cover citizens from Iran, Syria, North Korea, or Cuba.

If you are new to SafetyWing, the COVID-19 coverage will be added automatically to your plan. On the other hand, if you are already part of SafetyWing, we recommend you reach out to their customer service team, and they will upgrade your plan. 

SafetyWing also offers Remote Health insurance which is suitable for long-term nomads. It is more pricey but covers pre-existing conditions, cancer treatment, and you can use it in your home country as well.

What else does this insurance cover?

On top of everything, SafetyWing covers more than 94 recreational activities, including surfing, biking, hiking, and snowboarding.

2. Explore North America® Plus — Coronavirus Travel Insurance

Explore North America Plus travel insurance is a comprehensive medical coverage administered by Seven Corners that offers extensive coverage for Covid19 and other diseases.

This insurance plan also covers Non-U.S. residents and Non-U.S. citizens who are traveling outside their home country to the United States, Mexico, Canada, or all Caribbean countries except Cuba.

Special COVID-19 coverage:

We have chosen Explore North America Plus because of its special benefits when it comes to coronavirus medical expenses. 

Most travel insurances that claim to cover COVID-19 medical treatments include a “convenient” fine print that says they won’t cover you if the country you are visiting has a government no-travel alert, which most countries have.

That does not happen with Explore North America® Plus. If you contract COVID-19 on your trip, you’re covered, as simple as that.

• The plan covers medically Usual, Reasonable and Customary (URC) treatment for COVID-19 up to $100,000 or whichever is less.
• Emergency Room Services – (URC) up to medical maximum – $100 copay
• Urgent Care Visit – (URC) up to medical maximum – $20 copay

Other benefits:

• It also covers some onset of pre-existing conditions
• Hospital Indemnity – Only applies to Canada, Mexico and the unrestricted Caribbean countries* – Up to $150 per day, 30-day limit
• Incidental trips on your home country – Up to $10,000
• Dental – Relief of pain – Up to $200
• Dental – Accident – Up to $5,000
• Evacuation and Repatriation – Up to $500,000 (separate from the medical maximum)
• It only covers trips of up to one year
• It does not cover people older than 74 
• *The plan does not cover trips to Cuba.

Interested? – Get your quote here !

3. CoverAmerica – Gold Insurance – The Best Benefits

CoverAmerica is perfect for travelers and tourists visiting the U.S. who are not citizens or residents of the country.

• CoverAmerica covers COVID-19 as any other medical condition. However, note that it has to be purchased for at least 30 days to be eligible for the benefit.
• Unlike other travel plans, it has comprehensive coverage for COVID-19 . That means you can get reimbursement for delays, quarantine days, or missed flight connections if you get infected with the coronavirus.
• The coverage limit is up to USD 1,000,000 (conditions may apply).

• NOT available for U.S. citizens and residents.
• Citizens from Iran, Syria, the Virgin Islands, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone cannot contract this insurance. 
• This travel insurance covers emergency treatment of pre-existing conditions, acute dental treatment, and eye exams.

To learn more about CoverAmerica and its plans, click here .

4. Staysure Travel Insurance – BEST FOR U.K. TRAVELERS

Staysure Travel Insurance is the best choice for visitors traveling from the U.K., Spain, France, or Portugal.

• Staysure covers trip cancellations , emergency medical treatment, as well as repatriation expenses if you get affected by COVID-19 (conditions may apply).
• It also offers daily benefits if you have to self-isolate, additional accommodation, and transport, but only if mandated by a health official.
• If your close relative or a member of your household is hospitalized or dies of COVID-19, you can cancel or cut your trip short and claim reimbursement.
• Moreover, it is reasonably priced. To get a quote, visit the website here .
• ONLY for travelers traveling from the U.K., Spain, France, or Portugal.
• You won’t be covered if you have refused any dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Does not cover COVID-19 testing, which is often needed to be able to travel.

What’s covered?

Note that Staysure doesn’t cover you if you travel during government or regional lockdown.

5. Allianz Travel Insurance – Most Trusted

Allianz Travel Insurance is suitable for all types of travelers traveling from Ireland. From digital nomads and remote workers to students and backpackers, they offer a variety of plans in three different levels – bronze, silver, and gold.

Pros: 

• This travel insurance covers general COVID-19 medical treatment, as well as additional accommodation , transport , or cancellation of your trip if you contract the virus.
• They offer several insurance plans, such as Single Trip Insurance, Backpacker Travel Insurance, or Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance.
• You can cancel or cut your trip short if your close relative or travel companion gets seriously ill from the disease.
• If the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) advises against all non-essential travel, you can make your claim only if you provide documentation that you travel for a specific reason, not leisure.
• It is ONLY for citizens and residents of the Republic of Ireland.
• Allianz Travel Insurance offers an extensive Winter Sports and Ski add-on.

Interested in this insurance travel plan? Get your quote .

6. Travel Insurance Select®

This plan is a great fit for American couples, families, and friends traveling together around the country or overseas. Tours, business trips, and those traveling with social groups can also be covered by Travel Insurance Select®

Benefits and non-insurance:

• Trip cancellation coverage – it refunded you up to 100% of the money you invested in your trip.
• Coverage for trip interruption – you can get up to 150% of your trip expenditures back (depending on the coverage you choose).
• Travel Delay – If your trip is delayed for 12 hours or more due to covered circumstances such as carrier-caused delays, lost passports, strikes, or bad weather, you may be eligible for reimbursement for certain extra charges, up to the maximum for the option you chose.
• Missed Connection – Depending on your plan, you may be eligible for reimbursement of up to $1,500.
• Covid Quarantine Benefit: “Travel Insurance Select Elite plan offers coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$250 per person per day (12 hours) is included in the basic coverage.”
• Emergency support services are available 24/7, so you may get aid whenever you need it.

Example – Quote for a couple in their late 30’s traveling for two weeks from California to Washington :

Medical Expense

All plans include emergency medical evacuation, medical repatriation and return of remains.

It can pay reasonable expenses for an emergency medical evacuation ordered by a physician for a covered injury or sickness to the next acceptable medical facility or home, if medically necessary, up to the limit for your preferred option.

Waiver of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions available for the Plus and Elite plans.

Special COVID-19 coverage

COVID-19 is treated as any other illness.  Trip Cancellation benefits may be available if you are treated by a legally certified physician.

A person who gets ill while traveling in an affected nation may be eligible for Emergency Medical Expense or Emergency Medical Evacuation benefits.

A person who is required to enter quarantine in their destination due to a positive Covid-19 test can be eligible for Trip Interruption, Travel Delay, or Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) – this option must be purchased as an upgrade within 21 days of your initial trip deposit/payment.

The basic plan does not cover Cancel for Any Reason.

So, what do you think? Have you chosen your favorite? We hope our comparison has helped you at least a bit, and you will have peace of mind even while traveling during unpredictable times such as the pandemic. Enjoy, stay safe, and see you in the U.S.!

Disclaimer: Most travel insurance companies are still adapting to the “new normal” way to travel the world. We strongly advise you to check with your insurance company before committing to any insurance plan. 

Coronavirus Update & FAQs

We now provide cover for Covid-19 on our policies, click here to find out more

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• Cover available from 54p per day¹
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Backpacker Travel Insurance

The world is your oyster- and what better time to explore and have an adventure than now? Whether it’s backpacking, working abroad, a gap in education or simply leaving the comfort of your home town and all its familiarities in search of something new, then a Backpacker & Longstay policy might just be for you.

We know that the hardest part of planning a backpacking trip is deciding where you’re going to go. So, we’ve done the dirty work and found you the  top backpacking destinations according to Instagram - so rest assured you’re guaranteed to have the most visually pleasing social media out of all your followers!

If you do decide on a gap year, then you must ensure you’ve got the right travel insurance. We’ve got you covered with our Longstay insurance- so you can just relax and discover the world. Life’s too short, so go have an adventure!

What is backpacker insurance?

Unlike Annual or Multi-trip policies, Longstay policies provide cover for those travelling across numerous destinations over a period from 1 to 18 months (depending on your age and destination of choice).

Backpacker or Longstay trips can be unpredictable, and often you’ll end up going to a destination spontaneously which wasn’t in your original travelling plans. When you purchase your policy, you’ll most likely be asked to choose a group of destinations, so you have the flexibility to travel to any that are included, or call your insurer to extend and cover even more! And, if you thought this policy couldn’t get any better, it also provides cover for cancellation, curtailment, emergency medical attention and repatriation, personal possessions and activities- so you can travel knowing that everything is taken care of!

Do I need backpacker insurance?

Regardless of where you’re going, you always need some form of travel insurance. Given that a backpacking, gap year or charity work trip may differ considerably from, let’s say a 2-week family holiday to Benidorm, Single Trip  and  Multi Trip  policies simply won’t provide you with enough cover. For example, the  Long stay  policies even allow you to come home twice during your trip for up to 21 days if you begin to miss those home comforts and need a pitstop for Mum’s cooking (without rendering your policy invalid).

There are several reasons why our Backpacker & Longstay insurance is so important:

• Alpha’s Backpacker & Longstay policies  provide medical cover up to £10 million as well as offering repatriation - so you know you’re in the best possible hands. If you are travelling within Europe, From 1st January 2021 rules around travel to Europe have changed, visit the  Government website for up-to-date information on passports, EHIC/GHIC, healthcare and more. We’ll update this page with more information as and when the Government release it.
• Cover for activities:  When you’re travelling, you’ll be offered experiences and excursions beyond your imagination. But what if you end up getting hurt? We don’t reckon you’ll be happy about a huge medical bill! Alpha’s Backpacker & Longstay policy automatically includes cover for a wide range of sports and activities which you may participate in during your trip without the need to pay an additional premium*
• Scheduled Airline Failure:  You may have heard about airlines going out of business and cancelling holidays, but when it happens if you don’t have insurance, you could lose a lot of money. Gap Years are often funded by savings (and a lot of them). So, why risk losing all that money when Backpacker & Longstay Insurance offers scheduled airline failure cover as part of the policy?

What does Alpha’s backpacker insurance cover?

Despite popular belief, Backpacking isn’t just for students. That’s why we’ve established a Backpacking & Longstay policy catering to a wide scope of travellers. This policy is ideal for:

• Students - taking a gap year from studying;
• Adults after a career break
• Charity or volunteer workers;
• Backpackers;
• People who want to work or study abroad;
• Adrenaline and adventure junkies - our policies automatically cover hundreds of activities free of charge, with the option to extend your cover to include many more;
• Anyone aged 55 or under who wants an extended holiday - because we all need a break sometimes.

What does Alpha’s Backpacker & Longstay Insurance cover?

Wherever your journey takes you, rest assured- we’ve got you covered, which includes:

• A choice of policy excess
• Two return home trips allowed up to a maximum duration of 21 days each time* -
• Cover for Worldwide and European trips as long as you’re not travelling against the advice of the FCDO
• A wide range of activities covered as standard
• 24/7 Access to emergency assistance team
• £10 million emergency medical cover which includes cover for medical expenses repatriation
• Discounts for couples
• A 14-day cooling off period
• Free access to our Customer Area, with the ability to view, resend and download your policy documents whenever, wherever!

Backpacker Travel Insurance FAQs

How long will i be covered for with a backpacker & longstay insurance.

If you take out Backpacker & Longstay Insurance, it can provide cover for 1 to 18 months. Alpha provides significantly longer cover than most travel insurers (most cover up to 18 months as standard).

If I want to travel longer than planned, can I extend my policy?

Yes- providing you do not exceed the 18-month cover. For example, if you initially take out cover for 6 months, you can contact us and extend cover for a further 12 months. There is no limit on the number of times you can extend your cover, as long as your overall trip does not exceed 18 months.

Is Gadget Insurance included in my policy?

No, we have several  extensions  which you can add to your policy, including cover for  gadgets .

Can I return home during my period of insurance and will I still be covered when I continue with my trip?

Yes- you’re allowed two ‘return home trips’ of up to 21 days during your policy cover period, without invalidating your policy. So, if you’re worried you might feel a little homesick, this policy is perfect for you.

If your trip home exceeds 21 days your policy will terminate immediately and you will need to purchase a new policy should you wish to travel again.

When using the return home cover, all cover is suspended on clearance of customs in your home country and restarts after the baggage check-in at your international departure point to your overseas destination.

¹Pricing based on a 30 year old, travelling to Australia and New Zealand , if purchased within the two weeks prior to travelling on an Alpha 175 Longstay policy for 94 days. Prices correct as of 19/12/2023

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Home » Budget Travel » Is SafetyWing The Best Travel Insurance For Long Term Travellers? Updated For 2024

Is SafetyWing The Best Travel Insurance For Long Term Travellers? Updated For 2024

 “The  worst can happen and does happen…so you had better make sure you’re Insured”  – Fargo Season 1.

Usually, whenever I buy something I like to get my money’s worth and use it as much as possible. Take for example those Levi jeans that I wore everyday for a year until the knees wore out. Or take my trusty MacBook Pro which I use to beat out at least 10,000 words a day.

Travel Insurance on the other hand, is one of those rare things in life whereby you pay for it, and yet you hope that you never ever need to use it. But whenever you hit the road and head out on an adventure, it’s very important to get travel insurance. Whether you’re headed to Prague for a boozy weekend, or to Southeast Asia to spend 6 months finding yourself, disaster could be waiting for you at any point.

So here we run down what SafetyWing insurance offers and how they stack up against the competition. So with that, here’s our SafetyWing insurance review!

Do SafetyWing Cover COVID?

Safetywing review, do you need travel insurance,  breakdown of safetywing travel insurance, what travel insurance plans does safetywing offer,  what’s covered by safetywing travel insurance, what’s not covered by safetywing, who is safetywing travel insurance suitable for.

•  Who isn’t SafetyWing Travel Insurance Suitable For? 

How Much Does SafetyWing Travel Insurance Cost?

Other travel insurance providers, when should you buy travel insurance, staying safe on your adventure, frequently asked questions about safetywing travel insurance, final thoughts on safetywing travel insurance.

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When COVID-19 first rocked the world in 2020, most travel insurers were quick to invoke their cancellation clauses and pull all cover relating to either illness, cancellation or disruption caused by the pesky pandemic.

These days, most insurance providers are offering some form of COVID coverage included within their policies, but some are more useful than others. Whilst many now cover hospitalisation caused by COVID infections, fewer are offering any kind of cover for disruption or cancellation such as being refused boarding on a flight for displaying symptoms, or having to cancel your trip because of a positive test.

Whilst the pandemic has largely subsided , COVID is still able to severely disrupt travel plans. Therefore do consider paying close attention to the finer details of any insurers COVID-19 cover.

SafetyWing can offer COVID-19 coverage in their policies and may be able to cover you for illness, evacuation cancellation and interruption.

These days there are countless travel insurance providers out there and choosing between them can be overwhelming. Furthermore, some of these providers have better reputations than others and there are some very unfortunate instances of insurers not paying out on claims. Finally, deciphering between policies and reading their fine print can be exhausting. But we’re here to help.

In this SafetyWing Review, we’ll take a good, detailed look at SafetyWing and its travel insurance policy. We’ll run through the various types of cover they offer, look at what is and is not included in their policy, and we’ll assess their value for money. We’ll also have a quick look at some of their best competitors (including World Nomads insurance).

Need help deciding between Safety Wing or Hey Mondo ? Check out our helpful guide.

Do you really even need travel insurance ? It’s a fair question. After all, the vast majority of trips end happily and safely without incident.

We at the Broke Backpacker have probably spent a combined total of maybe 10 years on the road and have easily visited over 100 countries. During all of that travel, we’ve clocked up a fair few mishaps ranging from inflected legs that almost needed amputating, to the inevitable bike crashes, all the way to gun-point robberies. These incidents were all traumatic enough themselves leaving physical or mental scars. 

But mercifully, we were all insured at the time meaning that were spared the further trauma of paying out $10,000 medical bills and emergency medical evacuation or having to find $700 for a new iPhone.

Basically, nobody ever thinks it will happen to them and yet, it has to happen to somebody. Besides that, the law of averages tells us that if you travel enough, something somewhere will eventually go wrong.

Furthermore, some countries do actually require you to obtain insurance before even letting your enter. 

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

In order for you to decide whether you really do need travel insurance, let’s look at some of the things it can help with, and where you would be without travel insurance coverage.

Lost Luggage 

The aviation industry watchdog estimates that 5.73 items of luggage are lost for every 1000 passengers. This is not a bad statistic but it means that if you take 10 flights, there is a 5% chance of your luggage being lost forever. Also, note that some airlines and airports (the black hole of Charles De Gaulle anybody?) are a lot worse than others for this.

Lost luggage can easily mean your trip is ruined as you’re forced to walk around Ibiza for a week sweating your ass off in the same inappropriate jeans and jumper combo you left home in. Replacing everything you own though, can mean you then have to find $1000 to replenish your wardrobe, refill your toiletry shelf and get a new travel camera . Any good travel insurance policy, therefore, covers lost luggage, usually up to at least $1000.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Medical Expenses 

Medical expenses can be seriously expensive. For example a friend of mine was once hospitalised whilst volunteering in Costa Rica and ran up bills in excess of $10,000. He recently spent 1 night in a Thai hospital, was billed $1,000 and his passport was used as a ransom. Personally, I don’t have $10,000 to pay Costa Rican Doctors but I do have maybe $50 to get myself some comprehensive health insurance.

Coming from the UK where we (just about) have the NHS, the cost of medical care in some parts of the world is quite a revelation. If you are reading this in the US you already know all about health extortion but do remember that your domestic health insurance will not cover your medical expenses outside of the US.

Accidents happen without warning and ill health can strike at any time, anywhere. In fact, if you have experienced driving or hygiene standards in India, then you’ll probably agree that you’re actually at a much higher risk of coming to harm on the road than you are at home!

Travel Disruption

Travel disruption and trip interruption comes in all shapes and sizes but let’s take a classic, topical example. Every year a few airlines and travel agents go bust leaving passengers stranded. Booking flights home at short notice is expensive, but not getting home ASAP can mean getting fired from your job. Having to stay an extra few nights in a hotel can also put undue strain on an already tired travel budget.

Having travel insurance can therefore mean the difference between desperately raiding your overdraft to pay a hotel, or your travel insurance company covering a few extra nights at your destination free of charge! Trip interruption is upsetting enough without it costing a fortune!

Robbery 

In many parts of the world, tourists are a target for thieves. I’ve had my phone stolen by knife-wielding bandits in Colombia and know people whose hotels have been raided leaving them without gold jewellery and laptops.

Getting jacked is scary, but having to find $700 for a new iPhone is seriously fucking depressing. Thankfully, many travel insurance companies cover it.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Who Are SafetyWing?

If you have never heard of SafetyWing, it’s probably because they are still a new company. Launched in 2018, founded by Norwegians and based in the US, SafetyWing is one of the newest travel insurance providers in the space.

In case you are nervous about entrusting your wellbeing to a baby company, don’t be. SafetyWing’s Insurance partner is Tokio Marine, one of the biggest and most established insurance companies in Japan, and the Insurance is underwritten by Lloyds. Furthermore, Insurers are required to go through a shed load of vetting and have erm, insurance, in place before they are even allowed to trade.

SafetyWing identifies as long-term travellers and digital nomads describing their mission as “insurance for nomads by nomads”. In practice, this means that they focus on long term travellers and digital nomads who are not served by other providers and can often fall between the cracks of healthcare systems.

SafetyWing is pretty unique in that they offer a kind of hybrid between travel insurance and health insurance. Their package is nowhere near as comprehensive as standard travel insurance as they have ripped out some of the features which are less likely to apply to digital nomads and long term travellers. This is reflected in the pricing which makes them one of the most reasonable and competitive travel insurance companies.

Whereas most travel insurance companies offer multiple different plans, SafetyWing insurance keeps things straightforward and offers one simple plan.

One Simple SafetyWing Plan

The headline is that SafetyWing plan may be able to cover you up to a maximum value of $250,000 per cover period with direct billing. The excess is $250 meaning that you must pay the first $250 of any claim yourself. For example, if you end up in hospital for stitches and the bill comes to $197, then unfortunately the entire bill comes out of your pocket and you cannot claim. That is however pretty standard across insurance cover.

In case you are in a hurry, the key points are set out below.

• Medical emergencies may be covered up to $250,000. This also includes emergency dental treatment up to $1,000 which is perfect if you fancy a bit of 2am gutter boxing!
• Medical Evacuation may be covered up to $100,000. Note that emergency medical evacuation means been transferred to a hospital in your home country and does not mean been rescued from a mountain after breaking your leg whilst trekking.
• Emergency evacuation  in case of civil unrest or something may be covered up to $10,000.00. So, if London erupts into riotous, murderous, anarchy following Brexit, you can get yourself a flight either all the home, or simply to safety in Paris!
• In the event of a  natural disaster , cover may be $100 per day for 5 days for accommodation costs.
• Whilst trip cancellation is  not  included, trip  interruption  up to $5,000.00 is included. This means that if you are forced to cut your trip short, you may receive up to $5,000 to help you get home.
• Lost Luggage  may be covered up to $3,000. However, note that the maximum value per item is $500. Therefore, if you plan on checking-in that diamond necklace, you may wish to obtain different cover.

Please remember that international travel insurance coverage changes from time to time. It is important for you to read the policy yourself and make sure you understand it. If you are uncertain of anything, it is a good idea to speak with the provider for clarification especially when it comes to things like trip interruption and specific medical coverage.

Remote Health

SafetyWing quite recently launched a second policy; Remote Health. Remote Health was initially designed to cover remote working teams and was a pioneering form of workplace health insurance for the age of the Digital Nomad.

However, SafetyWing has now evolved the concept and it is available for individuals. Remote Health differs from the standard policy in a number of ways offering a more robust cover. Crucially, it may be able to cover pandemics like the COVID-19 outbreak of 2020 and for this reason, appeals to a growing number of travellers. Not all insurance will cover Covid 19 so this is a great addition.

Remote Health is more expensive than the standard policy but may still be a good investment for those seeking stronger cover.

Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses

Got food poisoning in Delhi? Got hit by a moped in Bangkok? Or maybe you just slipped in the shower and broke your wrist at a hostel in Madrid ? These things can, and do happen and will all require emergency medical treatment. Being sick, infirm and unable to jerk yourself off is bad enough as it is, so the last thing you want is a hefty medical bill which you have to pay out of your own pocket.

Emergency accident, sickness and medical coverage is quite likely the most important aspect of any travel insurance plan – I certainly know it is for me. If you get ill, get hurt, or otherwise need medical attention, you may have medical coverage up to $250,000 and direct billing is available too.

If you need emergency dental care, you may be covered up to $1000.

Besides the above medical coverage, SafetyWing also offers a few additional benefits:

• Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Condition – If you have a pre-existing condition which suddenly, flares up, then you may be able to claim up to $250,000 of the maximum limit or $25,000 for medical emergency evacuation. If you do have a pre-existing conditions, please speak to the insurer about it to make sure you are covered.
• Outpatient Physical Therapy –  You may be able to claim up to  $50 per day if you ever need to see a physio or a chiropractor during your trip. This is very useful for when the dreaded, Digital Nomad bad-back strikes!

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation

Medical Evacuation is when you need to be sent to your home country, or another country for further or continued medical treatment, and are too sick to travel home normally as a regular passenger. For example – when you are still stuck in a hospital bed with tubes coming stuck in you.

Repatriation means the cost of sending your dead body home. This is often overlooked by many travellers but it really is very important. The cost of flying bodies home is very expensive and I would hate for my family to ever be landed with this cost at such an awful time for them.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

This applies in the very, very unlikely event that you have an accident and lose an arm or a foot. Or if you tragically arrive at your departing destination and then die.

This coverage is for the loss of life or limb as a result of an accidental injury occurring during the trip. The loss must occur within 365 days after the date of the accident causing the loss. Basically what this means is if you have an accident and are dying, if you die your family may be covered.

The same goes if you have something happen that results in your arm eventually being removed as a result of the accident. 

We appreciate that this is pretty heavy going, grim stuff. But please persevere, these cover policies exist for a reason – the reason being that it is has happened to somebody before.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Kidnapping is very rare but does happen so thankfully, SafetyWing’s Crisis Response coverage protects against this. If this happens, you may receive recompense for either your ransom or loss of personal belongings that occur during the kidnapping.

Note that crisis response does not apply in some “dangerous countries”. Examples are Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Somalia and Venezuela. Personally, I think it’s a bit harsh putting Pakistan on that list but there you go.

Incidentally, quite a few reputable travel insurance providers do not cover kidnapping at all.

Lost or Stolen Passport

Did you know that lost or stolen passport claims are amongst the most common ones made by travellers?! If your passport is lost or stolen, you may be able to claim up to $100 for a new one which I think, should cover it pretty much anywhere in the world.

Of course, in order to minimise the risk of this happening you should keep your passport securely locked in your hotel room or hostel locker. Even in countries that require foreigners to carry passports with them, a photo copy usually suffices.

When in transit, keep it near to you at all times and do not absent-mindedly put it down anywhere. 

Personal Liability

Personal Liability indemnifies you in the event that your actions cause injury, harm or financial loss to another party. This includes vehicle accidents where you were found to be to blame.

Coverage also includes legal fees which can be harrowingly expensive.

Home Country Coverage

Somewhat unusually, SafetyWing even offers a level of coverage in your home country. This is because SafetyWing understands that long term travellers and Digital Nomads will go home once in a while, but that “the trip” is still not over. It’s great for popping home for Christmas or to attend your annoying cousin’s wedding.

The cover period is 30 days per every 90 day period (15 days in the US) .

We are not aware of any other travel insurance provider that offers anything like this.

To get the full measure of any travel insurance, it is important to look at what is not covered as well as what is covered.

In the case of SafetyWing, there are some very notable exclusions that you should carefully take into account before deciding whether it is the right cover for you.

Trip Cancellation

In case you get ill and have to cancel your trip, you cannot recover the costs of it.  From what I can deduce, the rationale behind this is that for long term travellers and Digital Nomads, life is the trip! Therefore, you may be unlikely to ever even really need this.

Electronics

Expensive electronic equipment is not covered by the SafetyWing plan at all. At first, this may seem odd in a policy aimed at Digital Nomads . However, most Digital Nomads have separate, comprehensive gadget covers anyway. Most travel insurers who do cover gadgets only cover them up to $500 which is about one third the price of a MacBook. 

I for one have a gadget cover that covers loss, theft, accidental damage and malfunction. After all, my livelihood depends on this little piece of overpriced silicon valley crap powering up each morning.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Theft or Loss

If you are robbed in Colombia, or you stupidly leave your Ombraz Armless sunglasses on an Indian bus, you are not covered. This is kind of unusual for travel insurance as both of these things do happen to travellers.

However, is this really such an issue? For example, in the case of your lost sunglasses, many insurers would try and wriggle out of paying that one anyway. Even if they did, you would have to pay the excess which could be anywhere between $50 – $250 (ie, more than the glasses are worth).

As for getting robbed, cash is generally not insured and any items are still subject to the excess. Therefore, the only thing you could realistically claim for is a stolen smartphone – see above re electronics.

Adrenaline Activities

SafetyWing does not certain adrenaline sports such as Quad Biking and Parachuting which is fair enough. However, somewhat surprisingly, football/soccer is not covered if you are playing as part of a regular team. Therefore, if you are a Digital Nomad thinking of joining the local 5 a side team in Budapest, think again! Trekking and mountaineering are covered up to an altitude of 4500 metres.

Sanctioned Countries

SafetyWing does not extend any coverage at all to Cuba, North Korea and Iran. This is presumably because the US’ draconian financial sanctions prevent them from doing so. Note that if you do wish to visit Iran, you will need travel insurance to enter so should find an alternate provider.

The kidnap or crisis coverage is not available in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Somalia or Venezuela.

So what makes SafetyWing unique amongst other travel insurance providers, and who is there cover the perfect cover for?

SafetyWing understands that there is a lot more to travel than a 2-week trip. They appreciate that many of us set off with a one-way ticket, no itinerary, and have no idea when we will be coming back.

Therefore SafetyWing may be suitable for;

• Long Term Travellers – SafetyWing are pretty unique in that they offer open-ended travel insurance. You can bum around the world for years, and stay covered as long as you keep up your premiums.
• One Way Travellers –  As I said, your trip doesn’t need to have a set end date in order for the cover to be valid!
• Digital Nomads –  When you’re a digital nomad, you move from one destination to another working and hustling as you go. You can hustle around the world for years at a time with this policy. If you’re living as a digital nomad long term, there’s a pretty good chance that at some point you’re gonna need to see a Doctor about something.
• Travellers With Kids  – This is another cool feature. The policy covers one young child  per adult , up to 2 per family, age between 14 days and 10 years old. So, if both you and your partner take the cover, it’s 2 children for free as long as they are not over 10 years old! If your child is over the age of 10, you may wish to enquire about separate or additional cover for them.

  Who isn’t SafetyWing Travel Insurance Suitable For?  

SafetyWing specialises in travel insurance for long term backpackers and Digital Nomads. This is a sizeable and growing niche. However, this kind of cover isn’t necessarily right for everybody out there. SafetyWing is perhaps not the best travel insurance out therefor;

• Conventional Holidaymakers – If you are going on a classic, 2 weeks in the sun type holiday, then there will be plenty of travel insurance providers more suited to your needs, who can probably cover you cheaper than SafetyWing. 
• Travellers Who Need Comprehensive Cover –  Note that SafetyWing is a specialised cover but is not comprehensive. For example, trip cancellation cover is  not  included.
• Adrenaline Junkies  – SafetyWing does not cover extreme sports such as white water rafting, running with the bulls or been fired from cannons. If you require this kind of cover, then perhaps consider another provider. 

SafetyWing Travel Insurance can cost as little as $42 for 28 days. Compared to some private medical insurance policies, which can cost hundreds of dollars, this is great value. They also offer affordable monthly payment options.

SafetyWing’s monthly premium does vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the applicant. A higher premium also applies if you intend to go backpacking in the USA (because of the expensive American healthcare system).

Not sure whether SafetyWing Travel Insurance is for you? Perhaps you feel you need a more comprehensive level of cover? Or maybe you are interested in SafetyWing but want to know what else is out there before you make a purchase?  

There are loads of other travel insurance providers out there to choose from. In fact, there are possibly too many! In this section, we will take a quick look at some other leading, specialised travel insurance providers who we have also used and had positive experiences with.

World Nomads

World Nomads are by far, one of our favourite travel insurance providers. Like SafetyWing, they also offer backpacker insurance.

The cover levels for medical emergencies and evacuations are broadly speaking, very similar to SafetyWing. However, World Nomads do offer 2 separate plans depending on how much coverage you want and what exactly you intend to do. World Nomads do also include trip cancellation, electronic gadgets, rental car excess, and theft cover in the policies.

Word Nomads can cover over 100 countries. They can also cover a wide range of adventure sports which SafetyWing do not. However, they do not offer Home Country cover and do not offer open-ended cover.  

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

World Nomads’ cover appears a bit wider than SafetyWing but is also substantially more expensive. It is perhaps better suited to adventure travellers and more typical backpackers and less suited to Nomads.

For more information about World Nomads – check out our comprehensive World Nomads Review or just visit the site by hitting the button below.

Provided you’re still reading, I guess you have concluded that you do want travel insurance. Good decision. The next question is probably, when should you buy travel insurance?

Ideally, you should buy travel insurance before you start your trip and some providers may even insist on this. Note that if you do ever do make a claim on your travel insurance, they will probably ask for evidence of when your trip started in the form of an airline booking or flight ticket.

As a rule of thumb, I usually book my travel insurance the same day I book my flight. The only exception is if I have long term or annual cover in place at the time.

We hope you never have to claim on your travel insurance and wish you many long, happy, safe adventures. And in order to help you stay safe, we do have some top tips for you.

Firstly to make things far more difficult for potential thieves to take your money, pick yourself up a backpacker security belt to keep your cash safe & hidden on the road. Also, check out our Backpacker Safety 101 post for tips and tricks to stay safe whilst on your backpacking adventure.

For hiding bigger wads of cash, check out this post on ingenious ways to hide your money when travelling.  

I strongly recommend travelling with a headlamp whilst backpacking anywhere in the world (every backpacker should have a good headtorch!) to prevent you from falling down a well on a dark night. In case you don’t have a head torch, check out this post for a breakdown of the best value headlamps to take backpacking.

These are some of the most commonly asked questions about SafetyWing that we received from you guys. 

Do SafetyWing Insure Electronic Devices? 

No. SafetyWing does not cover electronic devices. This is because most Digital Nomads usually have dedicated gadget insurance. If you have expensive electronic devices, I recommend getting decent cover for them.

What Countries Are Covered by SafetyWing?

SafetyWing can cover over 100 countries. They are not able to cover trips to North Korea, Iran or Cuba at all. The kidnap and crisis cover is not available in Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Nigeria, Pakistan & Venezuela or any other country from where they are prohibited due to the US’ Financial Sanctions.

Is SafetyWing the Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads?

It is not possible to say which provider or cover is best. However, SafetyWing’s mission is to provide cover for nomads, by nomads. They certainly do provide dedicated, strong cover for Digital Nomads at a great price.

Is SafetyWing the Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market? 

SafetyWing is definitely amongst the cheapest travel insurance providers we have come across.

Whether you are planning to spend a month in Oz or to live in Southeast Asia as a freelancer, it really is a good idea to get yourself some insurance. Life is unpredictable and you never know when illness, accident or bad luck can strike. When it does, there is no worse feeling than being stuck with hefty expenses that could have easily been avoided.

I hope your future backpacking adventures fulfil all over your travel dreams and then some. Hopefully, the day will never ever come when you actually need to claim on your insurance.

But, if that dark day does arrive, SafetyWing travel insurance will help you out and you’ll be glad you made the investment.

A word on Travel Insurance. Please note that Insurance terms and conditions do vary and may change from time to time. The information provided here is for guidance purposes only. We recommend you check with your policy provider to ensure that you are fully covered before beginning your trip. Please read your policy terms and conditions very carefully.

Aiden Freeborn

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Hi! We’re putting together a collection of reviews about Safetywing and would appreciate your input. We’re a high authority (Moz DA of 71, ahrefs DR of 62) website and can link back to you with a dofollow link below your review (can be just a few sentences long of unique content, but the more detail the better) if you submit one to us. We have a “submit review” page on our website otherwise you can email it to me. Let me know if you have any questions. Thank you!

We may well be able to provide an honest review of SafetyWing for you! I have contacted you by email.

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Travel Insurance Cover Details & FAQs

Here’s a summary of what your AIB Travel Insurance includes and excludes.

Choose the travel insurance policy that’s right for you

We have polices suited to all travel types from Single Trip, Annual/Multi Trip, Winter sports and Backpacker cover.

The information above shows only the key benefits and exclusions in relation to Single Trip, Annual Multi Trip & Winter Sports Travel Insurance (excluding Backpacker Cover), you should review the relevant policy documents to find further details on all benefits and exclusions.

AIB Travel Insurance Policies

• Travel Insurance Policy Document
• Healthcare+ Policy Document
• Travel Insurance Product Information Document (I.P.I.D.)
• Backpackers Travel Insurance Policy Document
• Backpackers Insurance Product Information

Travel Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

For Information on Coronavirus & AIB Travel Insurance  Click Here . For urgent queries about your policy you can call us on 1800 24 24 67 (Monday to Friday 9:00 to 17:00).

AIB has created a range of Travel Insurance covers to protect you. These policies are underwritten and serviced by our chosen underwriters, Chubb European Group SE. The Chubb Group is one of the world's largest property and casualty insurers with strong financial ratings from leading rating agencies.

An Irish resident is someone who has been living in Ireland (not Northern Ireland) for at least 180 days prior to the date the cover is applied for.

Yes. Whenever we ask you for personal information, we do so within a secure environment and all details sent between you and our web site are encrypted.

If you buy through the AIB Mobile app, you will pay from your AIB account. If you buy online or over the phone you will need a credit or debit card. Customers who buy online receive an additional 10% discount compared to buying over the phone.

Each of you is covered separately up to the limits shown in the policy. The policy limits apply in the same way as they would if you had each taken two separate policies. This is true for each person insured under the policy, although some benefits are restricted for children less than 16 years of age.

See our  claims section  for details.

A Single-Trip policy covers you for one holiday of up to 31 days. Ideal for short breaks or one off holidays. All you have to do is choose the length of your stay and if you are looking for European or Worldwide cover. 

Backpacker Travel Insurance covers trips for up to 13 months and with a budget option available, you can get the cover you need at a price that's right for you.

AIB Backpacker Travel Insurance Benefits:

• Unlimited Medical Expenses Cover
• Cover from 45 Days to 13 Months
• Over 240 Sports and Recreational Activities Covered
• Cover for Backpacking and Gap Years, Gap Placements Working or Studying Abroad

Annual/Multi Trip Policies are suitable for people planning multiple trips over the next 12 months with the same benefits of Single Trip Cover. If you’re a frequent traveller or planning another trip abroad over the next 12 months, then multi-trip Travel Insurance is for you, as it can save you money on multiple trips.

Annual Multi-trip policies give you cover for up to 90 days abroad in a year. Trips can be no longer than 31 consecutive days. With an Annual Multi-Trip policy, you are also covered for holidays in Ireland if you spend at least two nights in accommodation, booked before your departure.

We will send you an email reminder before your annual policy expires and offer you the opportunity to buy another policy. You can buy another policy through the AIB Mobile app, online or over the phone 1800 24 24 67 (Monday to Friday 9:00 to 17:00). 

Stay safe on the piste this season with optional winter sports cover for your ski or snowboard trip. Add it to any single trip or annual multi trip policy.

AIB Winter Sports Travel Insurance Benefits:

• Unused Ski Pass Cover of up to the value of €75 per week.
• Airline lose or damage your sports equipment, or did you damage it yourself? We will cover the cost of hiring new equipment for up to €20 for each 24 hour period.
• Cancellation, curtailment or rearrangement – up to €3,000.
• Lack of Snow Cover of €20 per day

No problem! As soon as you make a payment, we will confirm your cover on screen, and to the email address you have provided. You can also choose to get an SMS with cover details to your mobile. Provided you have your policy number, emergency contact number and claims contact number, you have all the basic information you need.

You can change your policy. If you need to add winter sports cover, upgrade area of cover or want to increase the number of people insured, you can call us on 1800 24 24 67 (Monday to Friday 9:00 to 17:00). Once you are not on holiday at the time, we can cancel your policy, give you an appropriate return of premium and arrange a new policy for you.

If you are buying a single trip policy, your cancellation cover begins instantly. If you are buying an annual policy, your can choose when your cover begins up to 180 days in the future. If you have already booked a holiday, and have no other Travel Insurance arrangements in place, you should ensure your policy starts immediately, so you are covered for cancellation.

Our annual policy covers you for individual trips of up to 31 consecutive days. You can take as many individual trips as you like providing you don't spend more than 90 days abroad in any insurance period. If you select our winter sports option, you will be covered for up to 21 days in any insurance period whilst you participate in winter sports either abroad or in the Republic of Ireland.

Yes, provided you have bought an annual policy. You must spend at least two nights in accommodation you booked before your departure. So a weekend break involving two nights in a hotel would be covered, but a day out and overnight stop wouldn't. If you have bought a single trip policy you will not be covered for holidays in the Republic of Ireland. Whichever policy you buy, some benefits are not payable for holidays in the Republic of Ireland. See the Policy Wording for full details.

Personal Belongings left unattended, out of your sight or in a position where you cannot prevent interference with them (E.G. If you go for a swim, or a drink or other reason) are not covered by this Insurance. Do not leave personal belongings unattended unless locked away.

The Insurance Product information documents (IPID) above contain a summary of the most important exclusions . It is not possible for us to list everything you will not be covered for, and we strongly advise you to read the full Policy Wording. Under each section of cover you will find a list of exclusions on the right hand side of the page, and a further list of General Exclusions in Part IV towards the end of the policy wording. These sections must not be read in isolation, but within the context of the full policy wording. If you have any doubts about what is not covered, please contact us on 1800 24 24 67.

Before you buy an AIB Travel Insurance  policy, we ask you to confirm that you are NOT 

• receiving or on a waiting list for treatment in a hospital or nursing home
• waiting for investigation or referral, or the results of any investigation, medical treatment or surgical procedure, for any condition, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed
• choosing to take an incorrect dose of prescribed medication, or choosing not to take prescribed medication.
• travelling against the advice of a medically qualified doctor
• travelling for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment
• travelling after being given a terminal prognosis

If you can confirm these and the other statements we ask you to confirm, you can buy our cover online.

Yes, provided it does not involve nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or agents.

Sorry, only Irish residents can buy our insurance.

Sorry, our policy does not cover single direction trips or Non-Republic of Ireland residents. Trips must begin and end in the Republic of Ireland and you must be resident here.

Sorry, trips must begin and end in the Republic of Ireland.

No, AIB Travel Insurance does not cover any business related trips. 

If your partner is not an Irish citizen, they are covered provided you are both resident in the Republic of Ireland (for 180 days prior to applying for a policy) and your partner is your spouse or a person of either sex with whom you have been living for at least three months as though they were your spouse.

Renting a car abroad? You can add our optional Car Hire Excess cover to your European Single Trip or Annual / Multi Trip Travel Insurance policy for as little as €2.39 per day or €39.99 per year.

Our policy is designed to allow you to claim back the cost of the excess you may have to pay in the event of a claim on the rental car agreement.

AIB Car Hire Excess Benefits

Up to €4,000 for any single incident (maximum of €5,000 during any one annual period of insurance).

Car Rental Key cover up to a maximum of €500 for any single incident (maximum of €2,000 during any one annual period of insurance).

Family Cover, extends cover to immediate family members named on the policy schedule.

The insured person must be a named driver on the car rental agreement, be aged between 21 and 75, hold a full valid driving license and permanently reside in Ireland.

When you hire a car in Europe, your rental agreement should include a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and cover for Third Party Liability and Theft. There is normally an excess applicable to the CDW and Theft part of the agreements which you would be liable to pay in the event of a claim. This excess in most cases can range from €100 to €2000. Our Car Hire Excess cover is designed to allow you to claim back the costs of this excess (in full). To be eligible to purchase this cover you must be between the ages of 21 and 75. Car Hire Excess cover is only available to customers who purchase European policies.

For individuals with suitable private health insurance we provide - healthcare plus Travel Insurance.

It saves you money, because you are not paying for health cover you already have. Single and Annual policy cover options are available.

You can insure up to 7 children, Children must be:

• the children of you and/or your partner, and
• under 18 (or under 23 if still in full-time education) on the day you buy your policy, and
• dependent on you or your partner even if they don't live with you.

Yes, provided he or she is under 23 years of age.

As long as your children or your partner's children are not older than 18 years on the day you buy your policy (or under 23 years if still in full-time education) and dependent on you, they are covered - whether they live with you or not. But there are restrictions on their ability to travel without you or your partner.

Yes, but only if you have bought our annual policy. If the child is named on your annual policy they are covered whilst they are travelling on their own in the following circumstances:

• in the company of an adult (i.e. someone not defined as a child under this insurance) you or your partner know other than on an organised school, college or university trip
• travelling on a scheduled air service as an unaccompanied minor, but only if that air service operates an unaccompanied minor scheme, and only if they are travelling with the intention of joining, or being subsequently joined by, another adult insured under the policy. They are not covered whilst traveling on their own in any other circumstances.

If your flight is delayed on your return journey and you do not get back into the country until after your policy has expired, your cover will continue until your airline can get you home.

This depends on which of our covers you have purchased. Healthcare+ Travel Insurance – you must contact your Private Medical Insurance (PMI) provider. They will be responsible for handling your medical expenses claim until medical repatriation costs exceed their policy limit. If your costs exceed 50% of your PMI policy limit, you must contact us immediately on +353 1 661 9133 . For all other Travel Insurance emergencies please call Chubb Assistance on +353 1 440 1762 .

If it's a medical emergency and you are admitted to hospital our emergency assistance service will guarantee the fees of the hospital and attending doctor(s) – so you don't have to pay. In cases where the expenses are small, you may opt to pay, or be asked to pay, and claim the money back. Please talk to our emergency assistance service, unless the case is very minor, and they will decide what to do.

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For further information about the Horizon IT Scandal, please visit our  corporate website

All medical conditions considered

Includes Medical Assistance Plus 

Kids go free on family policies (1) 

A choice of travel insurance to suit you

We have different types of cover for whatever you have planned. And we consider all medical conditions.

Single-trip cover

Offering cover for anything from a short UK break to a year of travelling around the world

• Covers you for a one-off trip up to 365 days (2)
• Perfect for short or long trips for anywhere in the UK or abroad 
• No age limit

Annual multi-trip cover

Travelling more than once this year? An annual multi-trip policy could save you time and money

• Cover for multiple-trips for a 12-month period
• 31-day trip limit, with extensions available up to 45 and 60 days
• Available for everyone aged up to 75 years

Backpacker cover

Looking for a gap year, career break or to travel the world? We could have the cover you're after

• Cover for a one-off trip up to 18 months
• Option to return home for up to 7 days on 3 occasions
• Available for those aged 18 – 60

Medical Assistance Plus: 24/7 holiday health support

Have peace of mind when you travel knowing that health professionals are just one click away.

Medical Assistance Plus (3), powered by Air Doctor, comes free with all our travel insurance policies. It gives you access to outpatient medical support while you’re abroad.

Through the service you can book an in-person or video consultation with a doctor. You can also get prescriptions delivered to your nearest pharmacy.

We’ll send you an SMS reminder about the service the day before you travel (for single-trip and backpacker cover) or the day before your policy begins (for annual multi-trip cover).

Living with a medical condition shouldn’t stop you seeing the world. And, with the right travel insurance in place, you can enjoy peace of mind on your adventures – just in case something unfortunate happens.

At Post Office, we cover most pre-existing conditions. Contact us for a quote to see if we can cover you. It’s important to declare upfront all your medical conditions and any medication you're taking.

If we can’t help and yours is a serious pre-existing medical condition, check the Money and Pensions Scheme (MaPS) directory. It lists companies that may be able to help you. Or call 0800 138 7777.

Choose a travel insurance cover level

We can offer you a choice of economy, standard and premier cover levels.

Policy wording

Upgrade your cover with ease

Need cover for your policy that's not included as standard? Just pay a little more to add these upgrades – optional or mandatory depending on the trip type.

This optional extra helps protect you from the impact of airspace disruption, natural catastrophes, terrorist acts or Covid-19 (5)

If you’re happy with the cover offered, but worried about excess fees, you can opt for an excess waiver. For an additional premium, you can add it to any Post Office level of cover for zero excess fees (5)

Insure all your devices with our easy-to-add gadget cover. It’s perfect to protect all your smartphones, tablets, laptops and consoles (5)

Specialist cover is mandatory for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. There’s greater risk of emergency costs. Make sure you’re protected on the pistes (5)

If you're going on a cruise, specialist cover is both important and mandatory. It covers missed departure due to breakdown, falling ill on board, being confined to your cabin, lost baggage and more (5)

Trip extensions are available up to 45 or 60 days, increasing from the standard 31 days (5)

Ready to get a quote?

Let’s find the protection that’s right for your travels. Get a quote for Post Office Travel Insurance

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance may be able to protect you against a range of unexpected events. From losing valuables to medical emergencies, and anything else that could spoil your holiday. Take a look at our policy documents to make sure that you’re getting the cover that meets your needs.

Cancellation and cutting short your trip

• Emergency medical expenses
• Missed departure
• Delayed departure

Personal liability and legal costs

We'll repay you for any non-refundable, unused travel and accommodation costs if you have to cancel or cut short a trip due to reasons set out in the policy. This includes pre-booked activities and excursions, car hire, cattery and kennel fees, up to the limits shown

We may be able to help if you need emergency medical treatment, return to the UK (getting you back home) and more while you’re abroad 

Missed departure (6)

We’ll also cover any extra travel and accommodation costs you're charged if you arrive too late to travel on your booked transport. As long as they match the reasons set out in the policy

Delayed departure (6)

You’re covered if your first outbound or final inbound international departure is delayed by 4 or more hours. As long as it matches certain reasons set out in the policy wording

Items that are usually carried or worn during a trip are covered if they get lost, stolen or damaged 

You'll also get protection for any unexpected legal costs you might be charged while you're away 

New-look travel app out now

Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

An award-winning provider

Best travel insurance provider.

Post Office won a ‘Best Travel Insurance Provider’ award at the Your Money Awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023

Post Office won a “Best Travel Insurance Provider” award at the British Travel Awards in 2023

Defaqto 5-star rated cover

Our travel insurance policies with premier level cover are Defaqto 5-star rated

Cover you can count on. We’ve paid out over £177 million in travel insurance claims since 2007

Common travel insurance questions, what does travel insurance cover.

Post Office Travel Insurance can cover you for a single trip of up to 365 days(2), or multiple trips in a single year. This applies to trips taken anywhere in the UK and abroad too. We also offer backpacker cover(7) for a single trip of up to 18 months.

The type and level of cover provided depends on the insurance policy type and options you choose. It can include cover for:

• Cancellation
• Cutting your trip short and abandonment of your trip
• Lost, stolen or damaged baggage
• Lost, stolen or damaged passports
• Lost, stolen or damaged personal money
• Personal accidents and liability
• Legal protection

You can add additional cover to your policy. Options include:

• Gadget cover
• Excess waiver
• Trip disruption
• 45- or 60-day trip extensions (on  annual multi-trip  only)

Winter sports cover  is compulsory for winter sports trips and  cruise cover  is mandatory if you’re going on a cruise. It’s important to check the different travel insurances available, and their various options and add-ons you can buy. This way, you’re sure to be fully covered for your trip and all you’ll do on it.

Why is it important to have travel insurance?

Having travel insurance is a worthwhile purchase for anyone going abroad for their holidays. Even in relatively safe locations such as central Europe, a number of things can go wrong.

Flights can be delayed. Airlines can lose your luggage. Tourist areas may be prone to opportunist thieves who may target your belongings. And you could fall ill anywhere in the world, to the detriment of your holiday plans.

We hope that none of these events happen to you. But, if they do, you could be out of pocket. And with emergency medical problems it could be by tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Holiday insurance may be able to help avoid some of this risk. It’s a way to insure for travel you, those travelling with you and your belongings.

If your luggage is lost, holiday insurance may not be able to replace it, but the payout from a claim can help recover any costs that you have had to pay to get replacements.

In particular, the medical cover outside of the EU offered by insurance is a necessity.

Within the EU, you may think that an  European Health Insurance Card (Ehic) or its replacement, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (Ghic), can cover all your medical needs. This isn’t true. Some of the most expensive medical services, such as repatriation, aren’t covered by the Ehic or Ghic. They're limited to health cover and won’t help at all with things like cancellation, loss or theft. And the Ehic no longer provides access to healthcare for UK nationals travelling to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland.

Even if you’re staying in the UK for your break , having holiday insurance will provide cover for lost, damaged or stolen possessions such as baggage, and cancellation, cutting your trip short or delay to your trip in some circumstances.

To qualify for cover on our annual multi-trip policies, UK trips must consist of:

• At least one night's pre-booked and paid-for accommodation, or
• A stay at least 100 miles from your home, or
• At least one sea crossing

Why choose Post Office?

You’re in safe hands with Post Office. We won Best Travel Insurance Provider at the Your Money Awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023. We also won bronze for Best Travel Insurance Provider at the British Travel Awards 2023, voted for by the UK public.

Our premier cover is 5 Star Defaqto Rated. Defaqto is a financial information business, helping financial institutions and consumers make better informed decisions.

We have a range of cover options available to suit lots of different holidays, so you can choose the cover that suits you best. We’re there for our customers when they need us the most; since we launched travel insurance in 2007, we’ve paid out over £177 million in claims.

What cover is there for Covid-19 as standard?

Policies purchased from the 31 March 2022 onwards provide cover if:

• you test positive for Covid-19 within 14 days of your trip and are required to self-isolate by a medical practitioner, the NHS or any UK government body 
• a medical practitioner certifies you as too ill to travel due to Covid-19 
• you, someone you’re travelling with, or someone you’re staying with is required to self-isolate by a medical practitioner, UK government body or health authority 
• you, an immediate relative (8) or someone you plan to travel or stay with dies or is hospitalised due to Covid-19 

If an insured trip has to be cut short, the unused portion of it can be claimed for if:

• you test positive for Covid-19 after you’ve left the UK and have to self-isolate
• you test positive on arrival in your destination and are not allowed to continue your trip
• you, an immediate relative (8) or someone you’re travelling or staying with dies or is hospitalised due to Covid-19

There’s also cover for medical and repatriation costs if you fall ill with Covid-19 while away. Call our emergency assistance line and we’ll help you seek treatment or, if needed, arrange to bring you back to the UK.

There’s no other coronavirus cover on our policies, but for extra reassurance you can add our  trip disruption cover upgrade option. This gives you added protection against missed departures and expenses incurred due to change of testing or quarantine requirements. Add it to your preferred policy for an extra premium.

For policies sold on or after the 31 March 2022

Should the FCDO advise against all travel to your destination, there's no cover under any section of the policy if you decide to travel. 

If the FCDO have advised to only undertake essential travel to a destination and your trip's not essential and you choose to travel, we'll only cover a claim if the cause is not linked to the reason for the FCDO advice. This limitation applies even if you've purchased an optional trip disruption cover upgrade. You may be able to travel with full cover if we authorise in writing that your trip's essential before you depart. Should you like to request this, please email  [email protected]

Please make sure you’re clear what’s covered and what’s not. Check the answers to common questions about coronavirus cover and the full policy wording for more details.

Does Post Office Travel Insurance cover medical expenses?

Yes, our travel insurance covers you for unexpected medical expenses. This includes emergency treatment and hospitalisation, plus repatriation if you need it. Cover's provided up to the limit specified in the policy wording for the specific cover level you choose.

Emergency medical assistance

If you need emergency medical assistance, you can call our dedicated team. They're here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get you the help you need. Check the correct contact details for your policy on our travel insurance help and support page .

Non-emergency medical support

If it’s not an emergency but you still need to see a medical professional, you can use our Medical Assistance Plus (3) service. This outpatient service is included free with all new Post Office Travel Insurance policies.

Get easy access to medical experts such as doctors, dentists and gastroenterologists. The single online platform can be used wherever you are abroad.

Choose whether you’re seen at a clinic, in your hotel or via an online video consultation. All sessions are in your own language. They even have prescriptions delivered to your nearest pharmacy.

This takes away the stress of finding medical help, so you can kick back and enjoy your holiday to the full.

Do I need travel insurance for UK trips?

We provide cover whether you’re taking a break in the UK or going on holiday overseas. You’re covered if your luggage or personal belongings are lost, stolen or damaged while you’re staying away from home in Britain. And if you have to cancel or cut short your trip in some circumstances, we can cover that too. As long as it matches the reasons set out in your policy.

Our annual multi-trip travel insurance can cover you for UK trips too. The minimum requirements are one night’s pre-booked and paid accommodation. Or your stay must be at least 100 miles from your home. Or you must have at least one sea crossing.

Where can I go on holiday in the UK or overseas?

The UK Government provides guidance on travel 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website for the latest travel information. It lists if it's safe to visit your chosen country. This information can change at short notice. So it's a good idea to check the FCDO page regularly.

Remember, your cover won’t be valid if you travel against the FDCO advice of all travel, and local government advice. Check the latest on the FCDO site or read our  where can I go on holiday guide .

Does travel insurance include gadget cover?

Our standard travel insurance policies will only provide limited cover for electronic items such as mobile/smart phones, camcorders and their accessories, all photographic/ digital/ optical/ audio/ video media and equipment, iPods, MP3/4 players or similar and/or accessories, E-book readers, and satellite navigation systems up to the single article limit. The single article limit depends on the cover you’ve taken out. For economy it’s £150, for standard it’s £250, and for premier it’s £400.

Gadget cover  is an optional add on you can buy at any time to add protection for your devices. Check the  policy wording for full terms.

Do you offer a student discount?

Yes, we do. We’ve partnered with Student Beans to offer a discount to students. To claim it, you’ll need to either  register for a Student Beans account (to verify your student status) or  log in with your existing account . You’ll be given a unique code, which you’ll need to enter in the promotion code box that appears when getting your travel insurance quote. The discount will be taken off your quote total.

Do you offer a discount for graduates?

Yes, we do. We’ve partnered with Grad Beans to offer a discount to graduates. To claim it, you’ll need to either register for a Grad Beans account (to verify your graduate status) or log in with your existing account . You’ll be given a unique code, which you’ll need to enter in the promotion code box that appears when getting your travel insurance quote. The discount will be taken off your quote total.

• Read more travel insurance FAQs

Need some help?

Travel insurance help and support.

For emergency medical assistance, to make a claim, find answers to common questions about our cover or get in touch:

Visit our travel insurance support page

We’re here to help on your travels

Access your travel insurance policy anywhere.

You can buy travel insurance and view your policy all in our free Post Office travel app. Plus you can order and top-up our Travel Money Card wherever you are too

Travel money made easy

Buy your travel money online. You can click and collect from a branch near you or choose next-day delivery to your home

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About our travel insurance

Post Office® Travel Insurance is arranged by Post Office Limited and Post Office Management Services Limited.

Post Office Limited is an appointed representative of Post Office Management Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FRN 630318. Post Office Limited and Post Office Management Services Limited are registered in England and Wales. Registered numbers 2154540 and 08459718 respectively. Registered Office: 100 Wood Street, London, EC2V 7ER. Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trademarks of Post Office Limited.

These details can be checked on the Financial Services Register by visiting the Financial Conduct Authority website and searching by Firm Reference Number (FRN).

(1) Kids (under 18s) can be covered at no extra cost on our single-trip and annual multi-trip policies provided they have no medical conditions.

(2) For economy, standard and premier policies, the single-trip policy will cover you for one trip up to: 365 days for those aged up to and including 70 years 90 days for those aged between 71 and 75 31 days for those aged 76 years and above.

(3) Medical Assistance Plus is not available for trips taken in the UK, only for international travel. The service allows up to 3 separate medical events per person, per policy and for each medical event up to 3 appointments per person listed on the policy. All appointment charges are covered by your travel insurance policy. You will not need to pay any excess fees for this service.

For any online appointments or where the appointment was held at your accommodation, where a prescription is issued, you will need to pay for any medication and claim upon your return home. No excess will be applied for any prescription charges. If your appointment takes place at a clinic and they have a dispensing chemist, you will not need to pay for your prescription and all charges will be covered by your policy at the point of appointment. If there is no dispensing chemist at the clinic, you will either be given a prescription, or the prescription will be sent to a chemist by the treating doctor, and you will need to pay for any medication and claim upon your return home.

If your medical situation needs to be handed over from an outpatient case to an inpatient case and requires hospital admission, you will be handed over to our emergency medical assistance team in the UK. For any inpatient cases, no excess will be applicable.

(4) Increased to £750 if you bought your foreign currency from Post Office.

(5) Terms and conditions apply.

(6) Delayed and missed departure are only available with our standard and premier cover levels.

(7) Backpacker policies only available on the economy level of cover.

(8) Immediate relative: your mother, father, sister, brother, spouse, civil partner, fiancé/e, your children (including adopted and fostered), grandparent, grandchild, parent-in-law, daughter-in-law; sister-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, aunt, uncle, cousin, nephew, niece, step-parent, step-child, step-brother, step-sister or legal guardian.

Overview of Travel Insurance Coverage

What does travel insurance cover, what does credit card travel insurance cover, what travel insurance coverage do you need to pay more for, choosing the right travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover frequently asked questions, understanding what travel insurance covers.

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.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Chase Freedom Flex®. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

• Travel insurance is intended to cover risks and financial losses associated with traveling.
• Coverage can include trip cancellation, baggage protection, medical care, and emergency evacuation.
• When filing a claim, be specific and comprehensive in your documentation to ease the process.

Whether it's a trip across the world or a trip across the state, having travel insurance provides major relief if things go awry. Flight delays, lost baggage, illness, injuries, and other unforeseen events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. With a major disruption comes the potential for unanticipated expenses.

Travel insurance and the coverage it offers can help keep you protected and save you money in the long run.

Travel insurance policies protect travelers from financial losses should something go wrong during their trip. You can customize which coverages you want to include, and there are several to choose from.

"Common types of coverage include trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage protection, coverage for medical care if you get sick or hurt during your trip, and emergency medical evacuation," says Angela Borden, a travel insurance expert and product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners.

Travel insurance plans offer nonrefundable payments and other trip-related expenses. While monetary compensation is a primary benefit, there is another valuable perk of travel insurance. It can provide peace of mind.

Your specific travel insurance plan (and its terms and conditions) will determine the minutia and specifics of what is covered. As with most other forms of insurance, a general rule of thumb is the more you spend, the better your coverage.

"Travel insurance can be confusing, so it's best to research a reputable company that specializes in travel insurance and has a long history of successfully helping travelers all over the world," says Borden.

Trip cancellations and interruptions

A travel insurance policy can reimburse you for a prepaid, nonrefundable trip if it is canceled for a covered event, such as a natural disaster or a global pandemic.

Trip interruption insurance covers you if you're already on your trip and you get sick, there's a natural disaster, or something else happens. Make sure to check with your travel insurance providers to discuss any inclusions, coverage, and more.

Travel delays and missed connections

Travel delay insurance coverage provides reimbursement for any expenses you incur when you experience a delay in transit over a minimum time. Reimbursements can include hotels, airfare, food, and other related expenses.

Medical emergencies and evacuations

Typically, US healthcare plans are not accepted in other countries. So travel insurance with medical coverage can be particularly beneficial when you are abroad. Medical coverage can also help with locating doctors and healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation coverage will also pay for emergency evacuation expenses such as airlifts and medically-equipped flights back to the US. Out of pocket, these expenses can easily amount to tens of thousands of dollars. Certain plans may even transport you to a hospital of choice for care.

Travel insurance generally does not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver, which we will talk about later.  

Baggage and personal belongings

Most airlines will reimburse travelers for lost or destroyed baggage, but be prepared for limitations. Travel insurance plans will typically cover stolen items, such as those stolen out of a hotel room. This may not include expensive jewelry, antiques, or heirloom items. Typically, airlines have a few days to recover your bag.

In the meantime, you can make a claim to pay for items like certain toiletries and other items you need to pick up. If your bag is truly lost or you don't get it for an extended period, you can file a true lost baggage claim.

A major perk on several travel credit cards is embedded credit card travel insurance . Typically, you will need to use the specific card for the transaction (at least with partial payment) for travel coverage to kick in.

Each card has specific rules on what exactly is covered. But one of the industry leaders is the $550-per-year Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. Here's a snapshot of what is covered with this specific card:

• Baggage delay: up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a passenger carrier delays your baggage by more than six hours.
• Lost and damaged baggage: up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment.
• Trip delay reimbursement: up to $500 per ticket if you're delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection: up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical evacuation benefit: up to $100,000 for necessary emergency evacuation and transportation when on a trip of five to 60 days and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Travel accident insurance: accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $1,000,000 for common carrier travel).
• Emergency medical and dental benefits: up to $2,500 for medical expenses (subject to a $50 deductible) when on a trip arranged by a travel agency and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Rental car coverage: primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to $75,000 on rentals of 31 days or fewer

More protections are included with cards with an annual fee, but there are exceptions. The no-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex, for instance, includes up to $1,500 per person (and up to $6,000 per trip) in trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage.

However, there are some differences between credit card travel coverage and obtaining coverage from a third party.

"Credit card coverage does not typically provide travel medical benefits," Borden says. "For protection if you get sick or hurt while traveling, you'll want a travel insurance plan with medical coverage."

Whether you get your travel insurance in a standalone policy or through a credit card, it's important to review your plan details carefully. In either case, there may be exclusions and other requirements such as deadlines when filing a claim, Borden notes.

Knowing what travel insurance doesn't cover is as important as knowing what it does cover.

"Travelers should understand that travel insurance benefits come into play only if a covered reason occurs," Borden says. Most standard travel insurance plans won't reimburse you for the following:

Cancel for any reason (CFAR)

Cancel-for-any-reason travel insurance covers a trip cancellation for any reason, not just a covered event. your standard benefits won't kick in unless it's a covered event. For instance, you'll be reimbursed simply for changing your mind about taking a trip.

That said, CFAR travel insurance is not without its downsides. For one, it's more expensive than traditional insurance, and most CFAR policies will only reimburse you for a percentage of your travel expenses. Additionally, CFAR policies aren't available for annual travel insurance . 

You can find our guide to the best CFAR travel insurance here.

Foreseen weather events

Sudden storms or unforeseen weather events are typically covered by standard travel insurance plans. There are exceptions to be aware of. For example, an anticipated and named hurricane will not be covered.

Medical tourism

If you're going to travel internationally for a medical procedure or doctor's visit, your travel insurance plan will not cover the procedure itself. Most medical travel plans also won't cover you if something goes wrong with your procedure.

Pre-existing conditions and pregnancy

Those with specific pre-existing conditions, such as someone with diabetes and needing more insulin, will not be covered by most plans. In addition, pregnancy-related expenses will likely not be covered under most plans.

That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver for stable conditions. In order to obtain a wavier, you will need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time frame from when you booked your trip, usually two to three weeks, depending on your policy.

Extreme sports and activities

Accidents occurring while participating in extreme sports like skydiving and paragliding will typically not be covered under most plans. However, many plans offer the ability to upgrade to a higher-priced version with extended coverage.

Navigating claims and assistance

When a trip goes awry, the first thing you should do is document everything and be as specific as possible with documentation. This will make the claims process easier, as you can substantiate and quantify your financial losses due to the delay.

For example, your flight home has been delayed long enough to be covered under your policy, you'll want to keep any receipts from purchases made while waiting. For instances where your luggage is lost, you will need to file a report with local authorities and document all the items you packed.

Cancellation protection also requires meticulous attention to detail. If you're too sick to fly, you may need to see a doctor to prove your eligibility. If an airline cancels a flight, you'll also need to document any refunds you received as travel insurance isn't going to reimburse you for money you've already gotten back. 

Part of the benefit of CFAR insurance is the reduced paperwork necessary to file a claim. You'll still need to document your nonrefundable losses, but you won't have to substantiate why you're canceling a trip.

Each plan should be personalized to meet the insured party's needs. Some travelers prefer to stick to the bare minimum (flight cancellation benefits through the airline). Others want a comprehensive plan with every coverage possible. Before you buy anything, set your destination. Are there any travel restrictions or changes pending? Does your destination country require emergency or other medical coverage?

If the destination airport is known for lost or delayed luggage, travelers should keep important items in carry-ons. Lost or delayed luggage coverage protects insured parties in the event of a significant delay or total loss.

Second, check current credit card travel benefits to avoid redundancies. Savvy travelers don't need to pay for the same coverage twice.

Finally, consider your individual needs. Do you have a chronic medical condition, or do you feel safe with emergency-only medical coverage? Keep in mind, this does not include coverage for cosmetic surgery or other medical tourism. Do you have a budget limit for travel insurance? Asking and answering these important questions will help every traveler find the right product.

Most travel insurance plans are simple, and Business Insider's guide to the best travel insurance companies outlines our top picks. Remember, read your policy and its specifics closely to ensure it includes the items you need coverage for.

No one likes to dwell on how a trip might not go as planned before even leaving. However, at its core, travel insurance provides peace of mind as you go about your trip. While the upfront cost may seem significant, when you compare it to the potential expenses of a canceled flight, emergency evacuation, or a hefty medical bill, it's a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things.

Coverage for pandemics vary from policy to policy. Some travel insurance companies have specific provisions for pandemic-related cancellations, while others may exclude them entirely.

Sports injuries are often covered under travel insurance, but high-risk or adventure sports might require additional coverage or a special policy.

Travel advisories have different effects on your travel insurance depending on your policy. Traveling to a country already under travel advisory may invalidate your coverage, but if you're already traveling when a travel advisory is announced, you may be covered.

Travel insurance usually covers the cost of emergency medical evacuations to the nearest suitable medical facility, and sometimes back to your home country, if necessary.

Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for the cost of replacing lost or stolen passports during a trip.

• Main content

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of July 2024

Best travel insurance main takeaways.

• Travel insurance can reimburse you for lost luggage, missed flights, trip cancellations and emergency medical expenses.
• Purchase travel insurance right after booking the trip to ensure the best coverage.
• Our top picks include Seven Corners, Generali Global Assistance and TravelInsured.com.

Why Trust Us?

To select our top picks, our team vetted 15 companies. We read the fine print on travel insurance plans and compared coverage options and prices to determine which insurers offer coverage that could meet the needs of specific groups. Read the full methodology to learn more.

• 15+ data points considered
• 13 insurers reviewed
• 1,000+ hours of research

Our Top Picks for the Best Travel Insurance

Note: The following companies are listed in alphabetical order.

• AIG Travel Guard – Best for Add-Ons
• Allianz Travel – Best for Business Travel
• Generali Global Assistance – Best for Emergency Support Services
• HTH Travel Insurance – Best for Long-Term Insurance for International Travel
• Nationwide – Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners – Best for Large Groups
• Travelex – Best for Families with Children
• TravelInsurance.com – Best for Comparing Travel Insurance Quotes
• World Nomads – Best for Adventure Sports Coverage

Best Travel Insurance Reviews

• Lodging expense benefit
• Trip saver and exchange specialized coverage included
• A child 17 and under is covered per insured
• Covers trips to Cuba if the traveler provides additional documentation
• High cost of premiums
• Most add-ons are not available for the basic plan

Why we chose it : We chose AIG Travel Guard as the best travel insurance for add-ons because it offers travelers a wide variety of coverage options with which to customize their plans.

AIG Travel Guard offers unique services such as MedEvac and Bag Trak® as well as coverage options few (if any) other insurers offer: a pet bundle, a wedding bundle (for canceled weddings) and an inconvenience bundle in the event any attractions you wanted to visit are closed.

Another of AIG’s specialized insurance products is lodging expense coverage. This benefit is for travelers who test positive for COVID-19 and must remain abroad until they present a negative test result. There’s also a Pack N’ GO Plan for last-minute trips which includes post-departure coverage and 24-hour emergency travel assistance.

Read AIG Travel Insurance Review

See rates on AIG Travel Guard’s Secure Website

• Epidemic coverage endorsement
• Allianz TravelSmart App
• Annual plan geared to business travelers
• 24-hour multilingual assistance hotline
• Low medical coverage
• No "cancel for any reason" benefit

Why we chose it : Allianz Travel is our choice for the best travel insurance for business trips because its annual plan offers comprehensive coverage that includes trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical and transportation, rental car damage and theft, and business equipment protection.

Allianz offers 10 distinct travel insurance plans, ranging from basic cancellation benefits to comprehensive multi-trip protection. All plans include a 24-hour multilingual assistance hotline and the TravelSmart App, which gives quick access to travel advisories, local medical facilities, mobile claims filing and more.

Another one of Allianz’s highlights is its lack of age restrictions (most other insurers limit coverage by age). Some of its plans also cover kids 17 and under traveling with a parent or grandparent.

Read Allianz Travel Insurance Review

See rates on Allianz Travel’s Secure Website

• Offers 24-hour emergency assistance services
• Up to $1K upfront payment for acute medical treatment
• Car rental damage add-on available
• Pre-existing condition coverage only available in the Premium plan
• High premium costs
• "Cancel for any reason" only available for Premium plan

Why we chose it : Generali Global Assistance is our choice for the best travel insurance for emergency support services because all of its policies include 24-hour Travel Support, which can provide immediate assistance for problems that might arise during a trip — from medical emergencies to identity theft.

Travelers can choose between three plans — Standard, Preferred and Premium — that cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay, and baggage damage, loss or theft. Each plan also covers medical and dental emergencies up to specific payout limits (from $50,000 per person to $250,000 per person).

Both its Preferred and Premium plans include trip cancellation benefits or trip interruption in case a travel supplier — say, a cruise company, hotel or rental car company — becomes insolvent and can no longer offer its services.

Read Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance Review

See rates on Generali Global Assistance’s Secure Website

• Travel medical insurance for groups of five or more
• International expatriate comprehensive coverage
• mPassport app to find doctors, pharmacies, and translations of drug names
• Pet medical expense coverage
• 12-hour wait for bag delay coverage (24 hours under the economy plan)
• "Cancel for any reason" option only offered in the Preferred plan
• Participants must be enrolled in a primary health insurance plan to be eligible for the multi-trip plan

Why we chose it : HTH Travel Insurance is our choice for the best travel insurance for long-term international travel because it offers specialty coverage for expats and students. Its Xplorer Plan features no deductible for office visits, no waiting periods for preventive care services and no pre-existing condition waiting period with proof of prior coverage.

HTH Travel Insurance also offers international health insurance for students with flexible trip duration options. This plan has unlimited annual and lifetime medical care maximums, includes supplies and prescriptions and covers medically necessary COVID-19 testing and treatment.

Other global health and safety services available through HTH Travel Insurance include 24/7 call assistance, access to elite international doctors and hospitals, and translated medical terms.

Read HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Review

See rates on HTH Travel Insurance’s Secure Website

• Offers a pre-existing condition waiver
• 24-hour assistance
• Multi-trip plans
• Must wait 12 hours before bag delay coverage
• Cancel for any reason is only available in premium plan
• Few options for additional coverage.

Why we chose it : We picked Nationwide as the best travel insurance for cruises because it offers three cruise insurance plans (Universal, Choice and Luxury) that fit different budgets and needs.

Nationwide’s emergency medical coverage starts at $75,000, and all three plan tiers include “cancel for work reasons” coverage, a $500 return-home-early benefit, $200 in coverage for shipboard service disruption, and $25,000 for non-medical evacuations.

Nationwide also has two single-trip plans: Essential and Prime. In addition to industry-standard trip protection basics, these plans offer above-average medical coverage starting at $75,000 and a “cancel for any reason” add-on that reimburses 75% of non-refundable trip costs.

Read Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

See rates on Nationwide’s Secure Website

• Coverage from five up to 364 days
• Allows coverage extensions
• Website includes sample scenarios to illustrate how the coverage works
• Hazardous activities not included in coverage (add-on only)
• Different plan options for WA, NY, PA, and MO residents

Why we chose it : We chose Seven Corners as the best travel insurance for large groups because it insures parties of 10 or more travelers through comprehensive policies that cover medical expenses and evacuations.

Seven Corners’ simple and budget-friendly Trip Protection Choice plan covers trip cancellation, interruption or delays for specific reasons, including COVID-19 for groups of 10 or more. Its emergency medical protection goes up to $500,000 and offers up to $1,000,000 for medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.

In addition to its group trip travel insurance plans, Seven Corners has three travel medical plan tiers with comprehensive medical coverage for emergency room visits, hospital room and board, and onset of pre-existing medical conditions. These plans include 24/7 multilingual customer service.

Read Seven Corners Travel Insurance Review

See rates on Seven Corners’s Secure Website >>

• Flight insurance plans available
• Pre-existing conditions waiver
• Several upgrades available
• Upgrades not available for the Basic plan
• Customer service has limited operating hours

Why we chose it : Travelex is our choice as the best travel insurance for families with children because it offers two plans that cover family members under 17 at no additional cost.

Travelex Insurance Service features two main plans for international trips, Travel Basic and Travel Select — plus a Travel America plan for trips in the USA. Both plans include children 17 and under at no additional cost.

The Travel Basic is an affordable plan perfect for students, backpackers, small groups or those on a budget. These plans cover trip cancellation and interruption at 100% of the trip cost and offer up to $2,000 for trip delays or missed connections.

Read Travelex Insurance Services Review

See rates on Travelex’s Secure Website

• Shows results from the top-rated insurers
• Offers helpful tips and articles
• Site only shows all add-ons available at checkout
• You may prefer a company that isn't on the marketplace

Why we chose it : We picked TravelInsurance.com as the best travel insurance for comparing quotes because it allows users to quickly and easily view plan details and prices from some of the top travel insurance providers in the industry.

TravelInsurance.com is a travel insurance comparison platform that simplifies the shopping process by connecting users with top-rated carriers. It breaks down coverage options and presents policies in a simple table for easy comparison.

This marketplace simplifies the process for travelers to input their trip details and receive customized quotes based on factors such as trip cost, duration and traveler ages. The results page presents essential coverage information, reviews, ratings and a link to each provider’s COVID-19 policy FAQs.

Read TravelInsurance.com Review

See rates on TravelInsurance.com’s Secure Website

• Emergency medical $100,000 (accident and sickness)
• Buy more while traveling
• 24/7 emergency support (Generali Global Assistance)
• Does not cover pre-existing conditions
• No CFAR option offered
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption coverage low compared to other providers ($2.5K-$10K)

Why we chose it: World Nomads is the best travel insurance for travelers who enjoy adventure sports because it covers over 150+ sports and adventure activities, unlike most companies.

Its Standard and Explorer plans cover scuba diving, skiing, surfing and 150+ other sports and activities. Both plans include accident and illness coverage and 24/7 emergency support as well as emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, accidental death and lost luggage or theft.

While most companies don’t let you purchase or extend coverage during the trip, World Nomads offers a rare alternative; individuals who didn’t purchase coverage before their trip can enroll in the company’s “Buy While Traveling” plan. Those who already purchased a policy can also extend their coverage to keep exploring.

Read World Nomads Travel Insurance Review

See rates on World Nomads’s Secure Website

Other travel insurance companies we considered

In this section, we feature popular companies that didn’t make our top picks. The table below highlights the highest coverage available for each type of benefit. Check out the full reviews to learn more about each provider:

• Tin Leg Travel Insurance Review
• TravelSafe Insurance Review
• AXA Travel Insurance Review
• Faye Travel Insurance Review
• Trawick International insurance review
• John Hancock travel insurance review
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Travel Insurance Guide

Travel insurance reimburses you if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip early. It can also pay for stolen or lost baggage and medical expenses if you get sick or have an accident during the trip.

Read on for more information on coverage benefits and tips on how to select the right type of coverage.

What does travel insurance cover?

What does travel insurance not cover, how much does travel insurance cost, is travel insurance worth it, how to get travel insurance, how much travel insurance do i need, credit card travel insurance.

Comprehensive travel insurance covers common travel issues and mishaps, from accidents to baggage delays.

The following are standard coverage options and add-ons.

• Trip cancellation insurance refunds up to 100% of prepaid, non-refundable travel costs if you cancel an upcoming trip for eligible reasons.
• Trip interruption coverage reimburses you for the unused portion of the trip and any expenses you may incur to get back home. Insurers typically cap reimbursement at 150% of the cost of the trip.
• Travel delay coverage reimburses you (up to your policy limits) for extra expenses such as meals or lodgings during a flight delay. It may also cover airport delays and any flight change fees necessary to catch up on your travel plans.
• Emergency travel medical insurance reimburses you for medical expenses incurred during your trip under certain circumstances. Coverage amounts for medical expenses can range from $15,000 to $50,000. Coverage may apply even if you’re pregnant while traveling .
• Emergency medical evacuation coverage reimburses you if you need to be evacuated to the nearest medical facility or to a facility in your country of origin. Maximum benefits usually range between $100,000 and $500,000 but can be as high as $1 million.
• Baggage and personal effects coverage refunds you the cost of replacement items if your luggage is lost or delayed during your trip, typically up to $2,500. You must wait a predetermined number of hours before filing a claim and submit purchase receipts or a list of items in your luggage. Coverage may be subject to a deductible.
• Worldwide assistance offers 24/7 customer service should you need assistance while traveling. This includes multilingual medical hotlines that can provide medical advice and refer you to local healthcare services.

Popular travel insurance add-ons

Here we explain a variety of add-ons or riders that allow you to increase benefit limits and cover activities that may be excluded from standard policies.

The most common exclusions in a travel insurance policy are:

• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Injuries caused by extreme sports
• Theft/loss of personal items such as electronic devices and jewelry
• Pregnancy-related conditions
• Injuries that happen while you’re intoxicated with drugs or alcohol, even if the intoxicating substance is legal to use at the destination
• Missed flights, where the traveler is at fault
• “Foreseeable events” such as epidemics and pandemics that are officially declared by federal or international health agencies. (Claims related to COVID-19 illness may be covered)

The cost of travel insurance can range from 4% to 12% of the total cost of your trip and depend on:

• Your travel destination
• The length of your trip
• The types of benefits and policy limits you select

* Insurance for a $2,200 trip for a family of four ranged from $90 to over $300, based on 6% of trip costs.

Travel insurance could be worth it in specific situations. Before buying a policy, consider the following scenarios.

You can buy travel insurance after booking a flight . However, it’s advisable not to delay obtaining a policy. The longer you wait between your initial trip payment and purchasing trip insurance, the greater the chance you’ll miss out on valuable add-ons like coverage for pre-existing conditions and CFAR upgrades.

The best time to purchase travel insurance coverage is right after you’ve booked your trip’s costliest non-refundable expenses, such as flight tickets and lodging.

1. Define your travel insurance needs

Consider your reasons for traveling and how long you’ll be away, taking into account who is traveling with you as well as your planned activities.

Business travel insurance is suitable for frequent travelers who need coverage for items like work laptops and phones. Vacationers who booked a cruise may need a specialized policy such as Nationwide’s cruise insurance plans , and students in overseas programs may want to look into a plan like Trawick International Insurance .

2. Review the policy limits

Each travel insurance benefit has a specific payout limit, which may or may not be enough for your particular situation. For example, individuals traveling with expensive personal belongings such as cameras or jewelry may want a higher payout limit for personal effects or riders for high-value items.

3. Check the policy’s fine print

Make sure the trip insurance policy you’re interested in covers the activities you have planned, especially if there are recreational sports involved.

Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions should also confirm whether those are covered under their policy. If not, they may need to look for a different provider or purchase supplemental medical coverage.

Take a moment to check if emergency assistance services are available 24/7 and what kind of assistance you can expect should you have a medical emergency or your belongings be stolen.

4. Compare travel insurance quotes

We recommend getting insurance quotes through comparison sites and marketplaces such as InsureMyTrip.com or SquareMouth Travel Insurance. Even if you’re traveling on a tight budget, you can still find cheap travel insurance that will cover the essentials, such as medical expenses and personal effects.

Consider the following when comparing quotes:

• Affordability
• Maximum payout limits for baggage loss or theft
• Available add-ons such as “Cancel for Any Reason”
• Policy terms regarding pre-existing medical conditions
• Minimum wait time before you can file a claim for baggage loss and trip delays
• Maximum payout limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuation

Before buying travel insurance , consider what losses you would incur if unforeseen events forced you to cancel the trip or if you suffered an unexpected medical emergency.

• Non-refundable travel expenses: These include flight tickets, lodging reservations, pet care accommodations, travel activities like guided tours, and transportation expenses booked in advance.
• Potential medical emergencies: Travelers may need medical care abroad due to injuries, endemic illnesses and other health emergencies. Some travel insurers recommend a minimum of $50,000 in emergency medical coverage for international trips and $100,000 for cruises and trips to remote locations.
• Additional coverage needs: Travelers who engage in adventure sports may need a rider to ensure medical coverage if they get injured. These sports are usually excluded from most trip insurance policies.

Many credit cards offer flight insurance and travel protection for lodging and luggage if you use the card to pay for these trip expenses. That being said, if you compare credit card travel coverage with travel insurance , you’ll see that most credit cards lack benefits such as medical expenses and emergency evacuation coverage.

Read our guide to the best travel credit cards for more information on how your credit card can help you travel smarter.

More on Travel Insurance

• Domestic Travel Insurance: What Does It Cover?
• What Is Schengen Travel Insurance?
• Pre-Existing Conditions and Travel Insurance
• Best Cancel For Any Reason Travel Insurance
• Best Places to Travel in Spring
• Best Places to Travel in the Summer
• Best Places to Travel in Fall
• Best Places to Travel in Winter

Travel Insurance FAQs

What is a pre-existing condition for travel insurance, do i need travel insurance, how does travel insurance work, what is the best travel insurance, when is it too late to buy travel insurance, how we chose the best travel insurance companies.

As part of our methodology, we obtained travel insurance quotes from the online comparison site Travelinsurance.com using the following profile:

• Family of four traveling from New York City to London
• $2,200 on flight tickets for all four travelers

We then reviewed the available plans and looked at the following factors to evaluate and compare each company:

• Plans and coverage: We looked for insurers with a variety of plans and the ability to customize the policy with unique add-ons, such as coverage for extreme sports and lost gear or equipment.
• Ease of use: We considered how easily you could get a quote and understand the policy information. Most of our top picks offer just a few plans to keep things simple or provide a comparison page where you can quickly spot the differences in each plan.
• Customer service and support: We rated companies higher for having a 24/7 hotline, a global emergency network, mobile apps, multiple customer support options, and perks like concierge and translation services.
• Reputation : To gauge each company’s reputation, we evaluated factors such as customer feedback and ratings, years in business and financial stability as evidenced by AM Best financial strength ratings.

Summary of Money’s 9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of July 2024

Best Travel Insurance Companies

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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AA Travel Insurance

How Much Does Travel Insurance in Ireland Really Cost in 2024?

Published 26th June 2024 Read Time 6 min

You’re finally taking that dream trip this year and want to make sure you’re covered in case anything goes wrong. But hold up – have you priced travel insurance yet? You may be shocked at how affordable it can be to get the coverage you need, even for extensive overseas journeys. We’re breaking down the real costs of travel insurance for trips in 2024 so you can get protected without breaking the bank. With just a few clicks you can gain peace of mind knowing you’ll be covered if illness, injury, or other unforeseen circumstances arise. Continue reading to learn just how little you’ll likely pay to safeguard your Irish vacation and still have plenty left over for pints at the pub!

Average Cost of Travel Insurance in Ireland

Travel insurance in Ireland typically costs starts from as little as €4.42* for a single trip policy . The exact price depends on factors like your age, health conditions, the total trip cost and duration.

If you’re under 50 years old and in good health, you can expect to pay on the lower end of the range, around €10 to €20 for a standard policy. However, premiums increase with age due to higher medical risks. Over 70, prices are usually 50-100% higher. Pre-existing medical conditions also raise rates.

Trip Details

The total cost and length of your trip significantly impact premiums. A two-week trip may cost between €15 to €30, while a six-month world tour could be €200 or more. Always compare quotes from different companies to find the best deal based on your needs.

For a few euro, you’re protected in case of unexpected events like lost luggage, medical emergencies or trip cancellations. For such a small price, travel insurance is well worth the investment to ensure your holiday goes smoothly without financial worries. Shop around and find an affordable policy that covers you for all the adventures your trip may bring!

Factors That Affect Travel Insurance Prices

So, how much will be travel insurance for your adventure? The truth is, it depends. Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for your policy.

Travel details

The length and type of your trip also affect pricing. A quick weekend getaway will cost less to insure than a month-long holiday. Adventure activities like winter sports drive prices up, while a standard sightseeing tour is less risky for insurers.

Coverage levels

The amount of coverage you choose directly impacts your premium. Higher coverage limits for emergency medical care, trip cancellation, baggage loss and other benefits mean higher prices. Basic plans cover essentials, while more comprehensive ones provide generous coverage for peace of mind.

Add-on options

Extra coverage for things like hazardous sports, rental car excess, or the COVID-19 pandemic will increase your costs. But at AA Travel Insurance we have COVID-19 coverage include in policy with 24/7 access to a GP . Some additions are worth the investment, but only choose what you truly need.

With some comparison shopping, you can find an affordable travel insurance policy in Ireland that gives you the coverage you want without overpaying. Focus on your priorities, weigh the factors that determine pricing, and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Your dream trip will be that much sweeter knowing you have the protection to enjoy it with confidence.

Tips for Getting the Best Travel Insurance Quote in Ireland

Shop around at different companies.

The cost of travel insurance in Ireland can vary significantly between companies, so compare quotes from different providers. Check both Irish companies as well as international ones that offer coverage for your travel. Compare the levels of coverage and limits to make sure you’re getting good value.

Consider Trip Duration and Activities

The longer your trip and the riskier your activities, the more you’ll pay for travel insurance. If you’re only going for a quick weekend trip, a basic policy should suffice. But if you’re planning adventure sports like rock climbing or skydiving, you’ll want a more comprehensive policy that covers emergency medical care and evacuation. Always be honest about the details of your trip to get an accurate quote.

Take the first step towards a stress-free vacation. Buy your travel insurance from €14.99^ with 24/7 GP access.

Bundle With Your Credit Card

Some credit cards offer basic travel insurance coverage at no additional cost when you use the card to pay for your trip. The coverage may be secondary to your primary health insurance and may exclude some activities, but for a short leisure trip it can save you money. Check with your card issuer to see if they offer any travel coverage and compare it to standalone policy quotes.

Buy Only What You Need

It’s tempting to purchase a premium “cancel for any reason” policy, but for most trips a standard travel insurance policy will do. Only buy coverage for the specific risks that are important to you, like emergency medical or lost baggage. Skip additional coverage types like missed connections or travel delay if they’re less critical. Buy only what you need to avoid overpaying.

Following these tips can help you find an affordable travel insurance policy for your trip without overpaying. Compare carefully, tailor the coverage to your needs, and you’ll be able to explore the beautiful destinations.

So how much should you expect to pay for travel insurance in Ireland these days? The bottom line is that costs can vary a lot based on your specific trip details. The key is comparing options to find the right balance of coverage and price for your situation. Don’t just go with the cheapest policy or make assumptions. Do your homework, get quotes, read the fine print, and make sure you get what you need. Travel disruptions happen, but with some smart planning you can get covered without breaking the bank. Safe travels!

Published 26th June 2024

By The AA Social Team

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