does my travel insurance include repatriation

sign up and keep track of your travel insurance events

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: How Travel Insurance and Assistance Services Can Help

You never quite know when a medical emergency will arise during international travel, especially to high-risk destinations where illness and injury are more likely. You could ingest an intestinal parasite, contract a virus, or simply slip and fall.

Are you ready to foot the bill for a $100,000 emergency medical evacuation on your next trip? 40% of Americans can’t cover a $400 emergency expense , so chances are an emergency medical evacuation might hit your wallet harder than you’d like.

Luckily, you can get travel insurance and assistance services that can bring you out of harm’s way and to the nearest suitable medical facility if you encounter an emergency illness or injury during your trip.

Keep reading to learn more about medical evacuation (also known as medevac or medivac) and repatriation, why you should consider getting insurance that covers those events when you’re traveling, and how travel protection from Generali Global Assistance can help if you encounter such an emergency.

If you run into difficulties during your trip, travel assistance services are included in all Generali Global Assistance travel protection plans and available 24/7/365. For emergency assistance during your trip, call (877) 243-4135 in the U.S. or (240) 330-1529 collect worldwide.

See our COVID-19 Travel Insurance Guide  with details about repatriation and evacuation.

What is Emergency Assistance and Transportation Coverage?

If you become critically sick or injured during your trip and no suitable local care is available, the Emergency Assistance and Transportation benefit provides coverage for you to be taken to the nearest medical facility that’s equipped to take care you. 

What is repatriation?

Repatriation covers the costs of being transported home if deemed medically necessary after a medical emergency has been stabilized, or returning remains back to the U.S. if a covered traveler has died on their trip.

Medical repatriation: If someone is injured or becomes ill on their trip, medical repatriation will return them home or to the U.S. before or after they have been treated, depending on the situation. This includes medical transport if necessary.

Repatriation of remains: If the worst happens and a covered traveler dies on a trip outside of the U.S., this service will transport the remains back home.

Who needs Emergency Assistance and Transportation?

You never know if an emergency will render you unable to take yourself to the nearest medical facility that can treat you. Fortunately, Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage can cover the expense of transporting you to a nearby facility for medical treatment. If you are traveling abroad, to a remote location, or cruising, or any other destination that would require evacuation via helicopter in the event of a medical emergency, make sure your travel protection plan includes Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage and services.

International travelers should know even if you have a health insurance plan, primary medical insurance may not cover treatment outside of the United States. Leaving home without coverage could expose you to risk and cost you a bundle. For example, Medicare does not provide coverage outside of the country. Research your destination before you travel and find out if travel operators require a minimum amount of medical coverage to board. 

How much coverage do I need?

Travel insurance with coverage for medical evacuation can help keep travelers from getting stuck with huge costs if seriously injured or sickened on a trip. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), medical evacuation by air ambulance can cost more than $100,000 and if you are traveling internationally or in a remote area the cost can be even greater. The CDC specifically highlights the high cost of medical evacuation from a cruise ship.

Generali Global Assistance travel protection plans include Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage limits from $250,000 per person to $1 million per person, depending on the plan you choose.

Compare travel protection plans and features

Generali’s Emergency Assistance and Transportation Coverage

Our Standard, Preferred and Premium travel insurance Plans all contain varying levels of coverage for emergency medical evacuation, hospitalization and repatriation.

24/7/365 Emergency Assistance Service s are included with your purchase. In addition to emergency assistance, our plans include Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage that can provide an air ambulance, commercial flight, or a transportation vehicle in the event of a medical emergency so you arrive at the nearest available facility in a timely manner. 

If you’re traveling alone and hospitalized for more than seven days, coverage is included to fly one person of your choosing to accompany you. The plan also provides coverage for their lodging, meals, local transportation and telephone calls during this time (up to $10,000).

Medical repatriation: Once a medical evacuation happens, we monitor the situation and when you are well enough to travel, we use our network of resources to help you get home safely. For non-emergency situations, the plan provides coverage for medically necessary transportation to your place of residence or to an alternative U.S. city where you’ll have access to the care you need.

Repatriation of remains: Our plans provide coverage for the preparation and return of your remains to a funeral home in the U.S. or the option for a local burial if you die outside of the U.S. 

Emergency Assistance and Transportation Coverage for Pre-existing Conditions

Travelers looking for Emergency Assistance and Transportation coverage for pre-existing medical conditions should purchase our Premium Plan prior to or within 24 hours of final payment for their trip, must be medically able to travel at the time of purchase and must insure all prepaid trip costs that are subject to cancellation penalties or restrictions to be eligible for coverage.

Also read:  5 Things Most People Get Wrong about Travel Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions

Additional Travel Protection Features

When it comes to traveling smarter, planning ahead is key, especially if you’re going abroad. Medical and Dental coverage is a major reason why travelers get travel insurance , and combined with Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption , and other valuable coverages, our plans let you rest easily with more peace of mind while away from home.

In addition to Emergency Assistance and Transportation, our plans offer a variety of other coverages and services - like a service that aids in the replacement of medication and eyeglasses on your trip - that traditional medical insurance plans usually don’t. For less severe medical attention, our plans include a Telemedicine Service, which instantly connects travelers with a network of physicians for information, advice, and treatment, and even prescriptions when appropriate.

The U.S. Department of State advises that international travelers buy travel insurance with Medical Coverage to help cover the cost of medical care when traveling internationally. To help protect you against unexpected medical fees you may incur, our plans include Medical and Dental coverage. 

If you have any other questions about medical evacuation and repatriation or how a Generali travel protection plan can help during a medical emergency, you can speak to one of our representatives . We wish you safe travels!

Travel Resources

Average Customer Rating:

Thank you for visiting csatravelprotection.com

As part of the worldwide Generali Group we have rebranded our travel protection plans to Generali Global Assistance, offering the same quality travel insurance, emergency assistance and outstanding customer service as you've come to rely on for the last 25 years. Welcome to our new website!

Final step before you're signed up

Please verify that you're human.

Medical Evacuation Insurance |

Axa travel protection: travel medical expense and emergency evacuation insurance plan   .

When exploring the world, the last thing you want to consider is a medical emergency. That is why AXA Travel Protection offers you reliable support when you need it most. Our travel coverage protects you against unexpected medical situations, including Emergency Evacuations and more. Let us delve into the details to understand how AXA Travel Protection has your back in times of need. 

Covering Emergency Evacuations 

Life is unpredictable, and accidents or sickness can strike even during your travels. That is why AXA Travel Protection provides coverage for emergency evacuations. If you suffer from an accidental injury or illness during your trip that requires immediate medical attention, we have you covered. We can pay benefits for the covered evacuation expenses incurred up to the maximum benefit mentioned in your policy. 

What is included in Covered Evacuation Expenses? 

AXA Travel Protection covers reasonable and customary expenses related to your Emergency Evacuation. This includes necessary transportation, medical services and supplies required during evacuation. We are committed to getting you to safety using the most direct and cost-effective route possible. 

Transportation Details 

Transportation arrangements are made with precision and care. We ensure that the attending physician recommends all transportation, complies with conveyance regulations, and is authorized in advance by us or our authorized travel assistance company.   

What is an Emergency Evacuation?

In the event of an accidental injury or sickness that warrants immediate transportation from a location, Emergency Evacuation or Medical Emergency Evacuation is deployed to rescue or treat the patient. These services are designed to transport the affected individual to a suitable medical facility for treatment or rescue purposes.

Understanding Emergency Evacuation 

Emergency Evacuation might sound daunting, but it is designed to ensure your well-being.Here is what it means:

Hospital-to-Hospital Transport: We have your back if your medical condition requires swift transfer from the initial hospital where you received treatment to the nearest hospital that can provide suitable medical care. 

Returning Home for Further Treatment: If your situation demands it, we will organize transportation for you to return home after treatment so you can continue recovery or receive further medical attention. 

Combination of Both: Sometimes, circumstances call for a variety of the above situations. We are here to make sure your evacuation needs are met. 

Is Emergency Evacuation necessary?

Maximum Benefit: $1,000,000 Hospital Companion: $10,000 File for a  Free Quote  to see the full range of coverage details.

Compare Travel Insurance Plans

Get covered against Trip Delays, Medical Emergencies, Lost Baggage, and more!

Emergency Evacuation FAQs

Who should i call during an emergency evacuation.

If you experience a medical emergency during your travels, contact your local emergency services. Then call AXA’s 24/7 emergency services: 855-327-1442

Transportation of Minor Children and Hospital Companions  

Your loved ones are important to us too. If you are expected to be in the hospital for over seven days following a covered emergency evacuation or if the worst occurs and you pass away during your trip, we will ensure the safe return of your unattended minor child(ren) (under the age of eighteen (18)) who accompanied you on the trip. They will be taken to the domicile of a person nominated by you or your next of kin, with an attendant if needed. 

For those times when you find yourself alone in a hospital for more than seven consecutive days due to an accidental injury or sickness, we will arrange for a companion of your choice to visit you once.  

This person will be provided with necessary transportation, authorized and organized by us while adhering to the applicable guidelines. 

Why choose AXA Travel Protection

With a presence in over 30 countries worldwide, AXA provides assistance with a wide range of features that include: 

• Extensive knowledge of local health risks and medical facilities to respond swiftly in the event of a medical emergency
• 24/7 global team of travel experts that offers assistance and assurance while traveling

How to get a Travel Protection Quote Receive a  free quote  within minutes Or call us at  855-327-1441  to speak with our licensed Travel Insurance Advisors. Monday-Saturday, 8AM-7PM Central Time Disclaimer: It is important to note that the specifics for Emergency Evacuation will depend on the policy selected, date of purchase, destination, and state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy, and to contact AXA Partners with any questions or concerns they may have.

Need Help Choosing a Plan?

Speak with one of our licensed representatives or our 24/7 multilingual Insurance advisors to find the coverage you need for your next trip. From Medical Coverage to Trip Cancellation Protection, our team of travel experts will help you choose the right coverage.

• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation

What is Medical Evacuation & Repatriation travel insurance?

If you become critically ill or injured while traveling and local hospitals are unable to provide adequate treatment, the Medical Evacuation benefit can provide coverage for emergency medical evacuation services.

Most insurance plans with Medical Evacuation coverage will transport you, or an insured member of your party, to the nearest adequate medical facility. If the treating physician determines you should return to your home country to receive further medical attention, this benefit can also cover those transportation expenses.

Medical Evacuation is a benefit included in most travel insurance policies that provides coverage in the event of a medical emergency that requires an evacuation. Most Medical Evacuation policies can include coverage for the following:

• Transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility: If the facility you arrive at is unable to treat your condition, this benefit may cover the cost to transport you to another facility to receive medical services.
• Transportation back home: If the treating physician or medical professional believes it is in your best interest to return home for treatment, this benefit may cover the cost emergency transportation to back home.
• Hospital companion: If you are traveling alone, some Medical Evacuation policies can cover the cost of a round trip ticket for a close friend or family member to visit you in the hospital if your stay reaches the minimum length outlined in your policy, usually 7 days.
• Traveling companion: If you are traveling with a companion, this benefit may reimburse their hotel stay, meals, and transportation expenses so they can remain nearby while you receive treatment.
• Return of children: If you are traveling with children at the time of your hospitalization, this benefit may cover the cost to transport your children back home so they can be in the care of a close friend or relative while you are treated.
• Repatriation of remains: If you die during your trip, this benefit may cover the cost to return your remains to the city of the burial site, as well as cremation, embalming, and other necessary expenses.

Common Medical Evacuation Exclusions

Even the best travel insurance plans have limitations. While the Medical Evacuation benefit can be used in a wide-range of scenarios, below are some common exclusions you may find when comparing travel medical insurance.

• Pre-Existing Conditions: Most plans won’t cover claims relating to a pre-existing medical condition unless stated otherwise.
• Drug & Alcohol Abuse: Claims stemming from drug or alcohol abuse, including overdoses, will likely not be covered.
• Pregnancy: Routine pregnancy checkups and childbirth are typically not covered by travel protection.
• Medical Tourism: Traveling for the purpose of having an elective cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure may not be covered by your plan.

Be sure to check the policy details of your specific medical plan for a more detailed list of exclusions and limitations prior to departing for your trip.

Travel insurance companies offer a wide-range of Medical Evacuation coverage limits. On Squaremouth.com, plans offer anywhere between $50,000 to $2,000,000 in coverage per traveler.

For most international trips, we recommend at least $100,000 in emergency Medical Evacuation coverage. This is due to the potentially high cost of transporting you during an emergency situation, as well as the cost of receiving treatment abroad for medical emergencies. For more cruises or remote trips, we recommend a policy with at least $250,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage.

Most primary health insurance plans, such as Medicare or an employer sponsored plan, do not provide coverage outside the the United States . While your medical transport may be covered in the USA , it is not likely to be covered if you are planning international travel.

If you are planning travel overseas, consider purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy. These plans not only provide peace of mind, but also includes coverage for out of pocket medical expenses, cancellations, delays, and personal belongings.

Do Credit Cards Provide Coverage for Medical Evacuations?

No, credit cards do not typically provide insurance coverage for medical treatment or transportation while traveling. The cards that do offer coverage for medical care typically offer coverage limits that fall short of Squaremouth’s coverage recommendations.

Many travel credit cards do, however, include other valuable benefits, such as Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, and various travel assistance services.

A Medical Evacuation Membership is a type of service offered by various organizations, typically insurance companies or specialized assistance companies, that provides coverage and assistance for emergency medical evacuations. These memberships are designed to assist individuals who encounter medical emergencies while traveling or living abroad, particularly in remote or underdeveloped areas where access to adequate medical care may be limited.

Medical evacuation memberships typically cover the cost of transporting the individual to the nearest appropriate medical facility capable of providing the necessary treatment. This usually involves ground ambulance transportation and air ambulance services.

Unlike a travel insurance plan that covers you for the duration of your trip, a Medical Evacuation Membership involves an annual or short-term fee. One of the more well-known Medical Evacuation Membership programs is MedJet .

Please be aware that coverage and eligibility requirements for this benefit differ by policy. The tables below show the providers that offer Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage.

Looking for a policy with Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage?

Enter your trip information on our custom quote form . Once you receive your results, select the Medical Evacuation & Repatriation filter to find the best policy for your trip with the coverage that you need.

Medical Evacuation & Repatriation by Provider

• Travel Delay
• Hurricane & Weather
• Missed Connection
• Cancel For Any Reason
• Cancel for Covid-19 Sickness
• Trip Cancellation
• Trip Interruption
• Financial Default
• Employment Layoff
• Cancel For Medical Reasons
• Cancel For Work Reasons
• Interruption For Any Reason
• Medical Coverage for Covid-19
• Emergency Medical
• Pre-Existing Condition
• Co-Insurance
• Medical Deductible
• Home Country Coverage
• Non-Medical Evacuation
• Extension Of Coverage
• Baggage Delay
• Baggage & Personal Items Loss
• 24 Hour AD&D
• Flight Only AD&D
• Common Carrier AD&D
• Sports & Activities
• Sports Equipment Loss
• Sports Equipment Delay
• Sports Weather Loss
• Search & Rescue
• Sports Fees
• Rental Car Damage
• Money Back Guarantee
• 24 Hour Assistance Service
• Identity Theft
• Renewable Policy
• Maximum Trip Length
• Maximum Number of Trips
• Additional Benefits

Additional Information

• AM Best Ratings

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

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

What is covered by travel insurance

Extras you can add to a travel insurance policy, what does travel insurance not cover, how to pick the right policy for your trip, if you want to understand travel insurance coverage.

If something goes wrong during a trip, your savings account could take a serious hit if you don’t have travel insurance. Flight cancellations, lost baggage or an accident can throw a wrench into your carefully made plans and cost a lot to rectify.

On the other hand, knowing that your trip is protected can help put your mind at ease before, during and after a vacation. But exactly what does travel insurance cover? Let’s find out.

Most plans typically cover a range of trip protections, including accidental death and dismemberment, baggage delay or loss, emergency medical coverage and evacuation, trip cancellation, delay or interruption and more. Here's a closer look at each one.

Accidental death and dismemberment

Accidental death and dismemberment insurance provides coverage for death or losing a limb or eyesight as a result of an accident. Note that death from natural causes, illness or by suicide isn’t covered, so it’s not the same thing as a life insurance policy.

Baggage delay

Baggage delay insurance reimburses the cost of essentials, such as clothes, toiletries or a phone charger, that you may need to purchase if your bag is delayed. Your baggage must be delayed over a certain number of hours to receive coverage — typically the range is from six to 24 hours, depending on the policy.

Baggage loss

Insurance for baggage loss reimburses the cost of your suitcase and belongings should a checked bag become lost, stolen or damaged during a covered trip.

Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

This benefit covers the cost associated with medical evacuation if you have a medical emergency and you can’t be treated at the facility closest to you. It will cover transport costs to another hospital or your home country, if necessary, and also includes transportation of remains.

» Learn more: Travel medical insurance: Emergency coverage while you travel internationally

Missed connection

A missed connection benefit covers extra expenses if a common carrier delay causes you to miss an organized tour or a cruise, for example, and you need to pay extra to catch up to it at the next port of call.

Reinstate frequent traveler awards

If you paid for a trip with airline miles or hotel points and it is subsequently canceled, this benefit will cover any fees required to redeposit your rewards back to your frequent traveler account.

Trip cancellation

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for prepaid nonrefundable costs if you must cancel a trip for a covered reason. Reasons that are typically covered include:

Sickness or death of a family member.

Financial insolvency.

Natural disaster.

Airline strike.

Inclement weather.

Military duty.

Stolen passport or visa.

Loss of employment.

Trip delay covers costs associated with transportation, meals or lodging should your common carrier be delayed, as well as reimbursement of any prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. Trip delay coverage takes effect after a specified period of time depending on the policy, but typically ranges from five to 12 hours.

» Learn more: What you need to know about Chase’s trip delay insurance

Trip interruption

Trip interruption insurance reimburses you for unused, nonrefundable costs in the event you must cut the trip short and return home for a covered reason, including a family member’s sickness or death, terrorism, inclement weather or a natural disaster, among others.

Travel insurance plans usually don’t include coverage for every possible thing that can go wrong, but you can add optional extras to your policy for an upcharge. Check to see if your plan has the following types of coverage, and if you think you need it, you can add it in or buy a more inclusive policy.

Cancel For Any Reason

If you change your mind and decide not to go on a trip you’ve booked, you typically can’t get reimbursed for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses — unless you purchase a cancel for any reason policy separately. Depending on the policy, you usually get a portion of your prepaid expenses back (typically 50% to 75%), but you must purchase the policy within 10 to 21 days of initial payment. Note that cancel for any reason isn’t the same as trip cancellation listed above.

Rental car collision damage waiver

If your rental car is damaged or stolen, rental car insurance will protect you from having to pay for the damage or theft. Many credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , offer rental car collision damage insurance, so check whether the cards you hold have this benefit before adding it to a policy.

Pre-existing conditions

If you need coverage for a pre-existing medical condition, you must purchase a policy within the time specified by the insurance provider to be eligible for a pre-existing conditions waiver (usually ten to 21 days). Make sure that the coverage amount you enter is equal to all prepaid, nonrefundable costs for your trip.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now

Quarantine accommodations

This coverage is often part of trip delay insurance, but some providers include it and some don’t. For example, the Safe Travels Voyager plan offered by Trawick International covers lodging expenses in case you get sick with COVID-19 and have to quarantine abroad before flying home safely.

» Learn more: Travel insurance may not cover COVID-19 — unless you upgrade

Travel insurance offers coverage for many situations, but not all. Some scenarios aren’t covered by a travel policy, including:

A named storm: Most travel plans protect you from hassles stemming from inclement weather. However, a policy needs to be purchased before a tropical storm or weather event is named. If you purchase coverage after a natural disaster has begun, it won’t be covered.

Activities performed under the influence: Drug and alcohol use are a notable exception to most travel policies. If you fall off an ATV because you drank a few alcoholic beverages or took drugs before operating a vehicle, you’re no longer covered.

Extreme sports: Some high-risk sports, such as bungee jumping, scuba diving or rock climbing, aren’t covered by a comprehensive travel insurance plan. However, you can buy a separate policy for the specific adrenaline activities you’re planning to do on your vacation from World Nomads , for example.

Fear of travel because of a pandemic or another reason: This is something that would be covered under a “cancel for any reason” add-on, but a general travel policy won’t cover fear of travel.

Medical tourism: Seeking dental work in Mexico or a hair transplant in Turkey? Keep in mind that your medical expenses for elective procedures aren’t covered by a plan with emergency medical coverage.

Pregnancy: If you want to cancel a trip because you’re pregnant, you can do so only if you purchased the plan before you became pregnant. Otherwise, it’s not a covered reason. Additionally, medical costs incurred while on a trip during pregnancy might or might not be covered (check with your insurance provider).

» Learn more: What to know before you buy travel insurance

The length of trip, your age and the destination all factor into how much a policy will cost. The coverage types and their limits also influence the price tag.

Types of coverage and limits

Take a look at the terms of each policy and determine the type of coverage you need the most. Compare the coverage details and limits with the cost. If you hold a travel credit card , familiarize yourself with its benefits as some of the trip protections might be redundant.

Single trip vs. annual plan

For frequent travelers, an annual plan offers the most bang for your buck — it costs less money versus purchasing insurance for multiple single trips. An annual policy covers long international trips as well as short domestic trips in between, so you can have peace of mind all year long. But everything isn’t always included in a multi-trip plan, the coverage limits are lower and you may not be covered for pre-existing conditions.

Individual vs. family

When shopping for a quote, include everyone traveling in your party and their ages before you submit the trip details. Note that some insurance providers include free coverage for children 21 and younger if a parent is the primary policyholder.

» Learn more: 10 best travel insurance companies

Because coverage varies among the different insurance providers and policies, make sure to read over the policy terms carefully, especially if you’re looking for a specific type or amount of coverage.

If you’re still not sure whether a specific event or activity would be covered, call the insurance company and chat with a customer service representative. It’s better to be aware of what’s covered and what isn’t before you need to (but hopefully don’t have to) file a claim.

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

How 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.

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

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

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

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

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

June 1, 2020

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after

Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after

Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova; North Korea; Russia; Israel

This is a test environment. Please proceed to AllianzTravelInsurance.com and remove all bookmarks or references to this site.

Use this tool to calculate all purchases like ski-lift passes, show tickets, or even rental equipment.

The Comprehensive Guide to Travel Insurance Benefits from Allianz Global Assistance

Trip Cancellation Benefits

Canceling a trip at the last minute can be really disappointing — and really expensive. Many hotels, vacation rental companies, tour operators, airlines and cruise lines won’t refund your money if you cancel too close to your departure date.

That’s when   trip cancellation benefits can save the day. This crucial benefit can reimburse your prepaid, non-refundable expenses, up to the maximum benefit in your plan, if you must cancel your trip due to a covered reason.

The term “covered reason” is important! You’ll see it over and over again in your plan documents (and in this guide to travel insurance benefits). Travel insurance doesn’t cover every possible circumstance. “Covered reasons” are the specifically named situations or events for which you are covered in your plan. For trip cancellation, some common covered reasons include the serious illness or injury of an insured traveler or travel companion; the serious illness or injury of a family member; your home or your destination being rendered uninhabitable; and many more.

Available in :  OneTrip Cancellation Plus Plan ,  OneTrip Basic Plan ,  OneTrip Prime Plan ,  OneTrip Premier Plan ,  AllTrips Prime ,  AllTrips Executive , and  AllTrips Premier .

Travel insurance tip: The best time to buy insurance with trip cancellation benefits is immediately after making your travel arrangements. The earlier you buy insurance, the longer your coverage window.

Trip Interruption Benefits

Sometimes, your trip takes an unexpected detour: You trip and fracture your ankle. A hurricane slams your resort. Your tour bus crashes. Trip interruption benefits can reimburse your unused, prepaid, non-refundable expenses, up to the maximum benefit in your plan, when you’re forced to pause your trip or cut it short for a covered reason.

Trip interruption benefits also can reimburse you for extra covered expenses: additional accommodation fees (such as a single supplement fee from a cruise line, if your travel companion goes home early); transportation expenses you incur to continue your trip or return home; and additional accommodation and transportation expenses if the interruption prolongs your trip.

Travel insurance tip: If you get stranded due to a trip interruption, contact Assistance ! Our expert team can help you figure out the best way to continue your trip or get back home, and can assist you with making new travel arrangements.

Travel Delay Benefits

You never planned to spend the weekend in Buffalo, NY… but here you are, because a snowstorm closed the roads and delayed your road trip to Toronto. So you find a cozy inn and order a big breakfast — and your travel delay benefits can cover the costs.

When your trip comes to an unexpected standstill, travel delay benefits make things better. This benefit can reimburse you for your lost prepaid trip expenses, as well as additional expenses for meals, accommodation, communication, and transportation during a covered delay.

Travel insurance tip: If your plan includes SmartBenefits SM , you can opt to receive a fixed inconvenience payment of  $100 per insured person, per day,  for a covered travel delay (up to the maximum no-receipts limit). No receipts required — just proof of a covered delay. Learn more about SmartBenefits SM .

Assistance/Concierge Services

Assistance is the heart of what we do. Every Allianz travel insurance plan includes access to the 24-Hour Assistance Hotline, available anytime by using the Allyz ®  TravelSmart app   or by phone. Our team of multilingual problem solvers is available to help customers with all kinds of challenges: changes in travel plans, medical emergencies, lost travel documents, misplaced luggage, lost or stolen personal items, pet care needs, etc.

Some plans also include access to our concierges, who can answer requests ranging from the routine to the extraordinary. Concierge services can assist with restaurant reservations, event tickets, catering and event planning, sightseeing recommendations, special service referrals and much more.  

Available in : Assistance is included in all Allianz travel insurance plans. Concierge services are included in the OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan , OneTrip Prime , OneTrip Premier ,  AllTrips Basic ,  AllTrips Prime ,  AllTrips Executive , and  AllTrips Premier .

Travel insurance tip: Our concierge benefits are included in qualifying plans, but the customer is responsible for the cost of tickets, tours, catering, and other goods and services not covered by your travel insurance plan.

Pre-Existing Medical Condition Benefit

If you have a chronic illness or injury, or any other medical condition, can you still be eligible for travel protection? Yes! Travel insurance can cover losses related to a pre-existing medical condition , but you have to meet certain requirements.

Allianz Global Assistance defines a pre-existing medical condition as an injury, illness, or medical condition that, within the 120 days prior to and including the purchase date of your travel insurance plan, caused a person to seek medical examination, diagnosis, care, or treatment by a doctor; presented symptoms; or required a person to take medication prescribed by a doctor (unless the condition or symptoms are controlled by that prescription, and the prescription has not changed). You don’t need a formal diagnosis for your illness/injury to be considered a pre-existing medical condition.

If your travel insurance plan includes the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver, you can be covered for losses due to a pre-existing medical condition if you meet all of the following requirements:

• You purchased your plan within 14 days of making your first trip payment or first trip deposit;
• On the policy purchase date, you insured the full non-refundable cost of your trip with us. This includes trip arrangements that will become non-refundable or subject to cancellation penalties between the policy purchase date and the departure date. (If you incur additional non-refundable trip expenses after you purchase this policy, you must insure them with us within 14 days of their purchase. If you do not, those expenses will still be subject to the pre-existing medical condition exclusion.);
• You are a U.S. resident;
• You were medically able to travel on the day you purchased the plan.

All other contract terms and conditions apply.

Travel insurance for existing medical conditions might sound complicated. We’re here to help! Contact us if you have any questions about how your travel insurance benefits work, or about what’s covered.

You should know that your health does not affect the cost of travel insurance . When you get a quote, we don’t ask you any invasive personal questions. In most cases, we calculate the plan cost based on your trip expenses and your age.

Available in: OneTrip Cancellation Plus Plan ,  OneTrip Basic Plan ,  OneTrip Prime Plan ,  OneTrip Premier Plan ,  OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan ,  AllTrips Prime ,  AllTrips Executive , and  AllTrips Premier .

Travel insurance tip: If you’re not sure you meet the standard of “medically able to travel” when you’re buying insurance, consult your healthcare provider first.

Emergency Medical Care/Transportation Benefits

Getting sick or injured when you’re far from home is a traveler’s nightmare. Will you get the care you need? Will you get hit with surprise medical bills? How will you get home?

Emergency medical benefits and emergency transportation benefits can give you the reassurance you need. Together, these benefits may be the most valuable part of your travel insurance plan. Medical providers overseas often do not accept American health insurance plans; instead, they require payment up front for services rendered. Without travel insurance, the cost of an emergency medical evacuation overseas can reach six figures in some parts of the world.

Emergency medical benefits can reimburse you for eligible costs of medical care for a sudden, unexpected illness, injury, or medical condition you experience while traveling. Emergency transportation benefits can pay for pre-approved, medically necessary transportation to the nearest appropriate hospital or other facility. These benefits also can pay for medical repatriation, which means your transportation home once you’re medically stable to travel.

Available in: OneTrip Basic Plan ,  OneTrip Prime Plan ,  OneTrip Premier Plan,  OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan ,  AllTrips Basic ,  AllTrips Prime ,  AllTrips Executive , and  AllTrips Premier .

Travel insurance tip: If you have a medical emergency while traveling, call Assistance — or use the free Allyz ®  TravelSmart app   — as soon as you can safely do so. We can help determine where you can best be treated, connect you with local medical providers, monitor your care, keep your family updated, and arrange your safe transport home.

Baggage Benefits

Some travelers think baggage insurance only helps when the airline loses your suitcase. It can actually do a lot more! “Baggage” isn’t just your luggage; it’s any personal property you take with you or acquire on your trip.

If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen while you are on your trip, your travel insurance plan can pay you the lowest of the following, up to the maximum benefit listed in your plan:

• The actual cash value of the baggage;
• The cost to repair damaged baggage;
• The cost to replace the lost, damaged, or stolen baggage.

Read the baggage benefits section of your plan documents before you go, so you understand what’s covered and what’s excluded. High-value items (such as jewelry or electronic equipment) are covered up to the maximum benefit for high-value items shown in your declarations.

If your baggage is delayed during your outbound trip, your baggage delay benefits can reimburse you for purchasing essential items you need until your baggage arrives. (The length of a covered delay is defined in your plan.)

If your plan includes SmartBenefits SM , you can opt to receive a fixed inconvenience payment of  $100 per insured person, per day,  for a covered baggage delay (up to the maximum no-receipts limit). No receipts required — just proof of a covered delay. Learn more about SmartBenefits SM .

Available in: OneTrip Basic Plan , OneTrip Prime Plan , OneTrip Premier Plan , OneTrip Rental Car Protector , OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan , AllTrips Basic Plan , AllTrips Executive Plan , AllTrips Premier Plan .

Travel insurance tip: It’s smart to document the items you bring on your trip, just in case. Snap some quick pictures as you pack. If you buy any new items for your trip, keep the receipts in case you need to file a claim.

Rental Car Benefits

You know how when you rent a car, the agent tries really hard to get you to buy extra insurance? Here’s a tip: You probably don’t need everything they’re selling. Here’s another tip: You do need collision protection — and the OneTrip Rental Car Protector is the affordable way to get it.

Rental car insurance from Allianz Global Assistance provides primary coverage for covered collision, loss and damage up to $50,000, along with 24-hour emergency assistance. This means that if your rental car is stolen, or is damaged in a covered accident or while it's left unattended, the cost can be covered up to $50,000. For just $11 per calendar day in most states, it’s a great deal!

Available in: OneTrip Rental Car Protector  Plan   , AllTrips Basic Plan , AllTrips Executive Plan , AllTrips Premier Plan (rental car coverage is not available with AllTrips plans in all states), and as an add-on to OneTrip plans.

Travel insurance tip: The OneTrip Rental Car Protector also includes up to $1,000 in trip interruption benefits and up to $1,000 in baggage loss/damage benefits. This makes it a great choice to protect weekend road trips.

Related Articles

• SmartBenefits Explained [VIDEO]
• Travel Insurance and COVID-19: The Epidemic Endorsement Explained
• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Covered Reasons Explained

Get a Quote

{{travelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

{{annualTravelBanText}} {{travelBanDateFormatted}}.

If your trip involves multiple destinations, please enter the destination where you’ll be spending the most time. It is not required to list all destinations on your policy.

Age of Traveler

Ages: {{quote.travelers_ages}}

If you were referred by a travel agent, enter the ACCAM number provided by your agent.

Travel Dates

{{quote.travel_dates ? quote.travel_dates : "Departure - Return" | formatDates}}

Plan Start Date

{{quote.start_date ? quote.start_date : "Date"}}

Share this Page

• {{errorMsgSendSocialEmail}}

Your browser does not support iframes.

Popular Travel Insurance Plans

• Annual Travel Insurance
• Cruise Insurance
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• International Travel Insurance
• Rental Car Insurance

View all of our travel insurance products

Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.

Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best's 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at  800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or [email protected] .

Return To Log In

Your session has expired. We are redirecting you to our sign-in page.

Does Travel Insurance Include Repatriation?

Yes, travel insurance includes repatriation as described within the medical evacuation coverage of your travel insurance plan.

Repatriation is the return of an insured traveler’s body home if they die while traveling. See our full review of repatriation coverage for more details.

The simple fact is that repatriating a person’s body is a complicated and expensive process. Local laws and regulations control how the body is to be handled and transported and there are often fees, expenses for embalming, costs for containers, and shipping costs not to mention the bureaucracy involved in transporting human remains.

Regardless of the situation, the family of the traveler is very much helped by a travel insurance company who can manage, negotiate, and pay for the repatriation.

What kinds of travel insurance plans include repatriation?

Many types of travel insurance plans (both package plans and travel medical plans)  include this coverage, but it’s important to note that repatriation is nearly always bundled with the travel insurance plan’s medical evacuation coverage.

The travel insurance provider will coordinate, manage, and pay for the repatriation – not the traveler’s family. The travel insurance company will, however, communicate their plan and the progress to the family of the traveler.

What’s not included with repatriation coverage?

A travel insurance plan with repatriation coverage does not include funeral, burial, or cremation expenses. Nor does it include related containers such as urns or coffins. The travel insurance coverage focuses on the legal transportation of the body in an approved container to a funeral home near the traveler’s residence.

In essence, the traveler cannot be buried where they died using their travel insurance coverage – their body must be transported home instead.

See our full review of repatriation coverage for a list of plans and associated limits to understand how much coverage each company and plan provides.

DamianTysdal

Damian Tysdal is the founder of CoverTrip, and is a licensed agent for travel insurance (MA 1883287). He believes travel insurance should be easier to understand, and started the first travel insurance blog in 2006.

How does annual travel insurance work?

• 18 September 2013

How does travel insurance work?

• 17 September 2013

Why does travel insurance need the airline reimbursement for my lost bag?

Travel with peace-of-mind... compare quotes for free.

Medical Evacuation Insurance: Best Medical Repatriation Coverage

• July 20, 2023
• Travel resources

Vacations abroad can be marred by illness or injury, which becomes even more distressing when you are far from home. In such situations, immediate medical care, medical helicopter rescue insurance or airlift transportation might be necessary. To safeguard your wellbeing and against the financial burden of these emergencies, having a comprehensive travel insurance plan with medical evacuation insurance is crucial.

This review blog looks at the best medical evacuation insurance plans, as well as everything you need to know about medical evacuation and repatriation insurance.

Quick Answer: Best Medical Evacuation Insurance

Editors Choice

Global Rescue Insurance

Coverage for Trekkers

No limitation on altitude for coverage

Emergency medical coverage: to $100,000

2nd Best Choice

World Nomads Insurance

Coverage until 22,965 feet (7,000 meters)

Up to $500,000 in coverage

3rd Best Choice

Travelex Trekking Insurance

Coverage until 20,000 feet (6,000 meters)

Up to $1 million in coverage

Best Medical Evacuation Insurance Providers

The information below highlights our top three choices for medical evacuation and repatriation insurance which are perfect for trekkers and adventure sports enthusiasts. We must insist that you look through the policies and what they cover before you purchase one. Additionally, if you are looking for more traditional travel insurance, have a look at one our other blogs: best trekking travel insurance , and insurance for trekking in Nepal .

Our top three choices for medivac insurance:

1. Global Rescue Insurance:

Global Rescue Trekking Insurance is a well-known provider of rescue memberships in high-altitude and trekking circles. This plan is highly recommended by many of Nepal’s travel and expedition companies.

The most significant advantage for travelers with Global Rescue’s rescue and evacuation insurance is no elevation limit. Meaning that their policy covers you no matter where you are in the world – even Everest!

You can get a membership on short- or long-term basis (7, 14, or 30 days), making the plan extremely flexible and affordable! Their specialty is with medical rescue and reparation insurance, and does not cover travel cancellations, delays, baggage, or medical and dental expenses.

However, they do offer add-on travel insurance policy with IMG (IMG Signature Travel Insurance), which provides coverage for all these items in addition to your high-altitude and rescue/evacuation coverage.

Make sure to check out my Global Rescue Insurance review blog, it will go into depth about what the medical Helicopter evacuation coverage offers!

Main Features:

Medical evacuation from anywhere in the world

Emergency medical coverage — up to $100,000

Trip cancellation — up to $100,000

Lost luggage/baggage delay — up to $2,500

Up to 150% of trip cost insured for trip interruption

Pros and Cons of WorldTrips Hiking Insurance:

The following are a list of pros and cons, things that we love and hate about the insurance policy:

• Secure the value of your entire trip
• Industry’s most complete travel insurance products
• Field Rescue services from the point of injury or illness
• Face-to-face video consultations and advice about your diagnosis
• Will rescue you no matter where you are in the world
• Help determining the best possible treatment options
• Can be expensive depending on the travelers usage of the plan
• Have to buy an annual membership
• Emergency medical expense coverage of $100,000 is quite low when compared to other altitude insurance policies

1. World Nomads Insurance

As an entity, World Nomads has been recommended by well known companies in the travel industry such as Lonely Planet and National Geographic — add with the thousands of customer reviews from  Trust Pilot  that they have garnished over the years, it is easy to see the great reputation that World Nomads has.

They are also backed by secure, trusted, and specialist underwriters who provide travelers with great cover, 24-hour emergency assistance, and the highest levels of support and claims management!

Let’s first start with who World Nomads is. You can also read my full World Nomads Insurance Review to take a deep dive into the insurance provider.

Who are World Nomads?

Since 2002, World Nomads have been protecting, connecting and inspiring independent travelers.

They offer simple and flexible travel insurance and safety advice to help you travel.

Because they believe in giving back to the places we travel to, World Nomads also enables you to make a difference with a micro-donation when you buy a policy.

And they’ll help you plan your trip with free downloadable guides, travel tips, responsible travel insights and recommendations from their global community.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Standard Plan until 19,685 feet (6,000 meters)

$500,000 in coverage

Trip cancellation insurance

Standard Plan until 22,965 feet (7,000 meters)

Emergency medical evacuation

Pros and Cons of World Nomads Insurance:

• Covers a Lot of Countries Worldwide
• High Coverage for Medical Expenses
• Flexible Prices
• Buy or Extend Anytime, Anywhere
• Perfect for adventure-loving travelers
• 24/7 customer service with online claims option
• Limited age coverage for seniors
• Coverage can differ depending on location and nationality
• Limited COVID coverage

2. Travelex Trekking Insurance:

Our third choice for insurance that provides medical evacuation and repatriation insurance is Travelex insurance. It is a great budget-friendly provider that offers affordable rates and coverage for families. Moreover, they offer plan extensions that will allow you to be insured while trekking at high elevations. They provide coverage on individual bases and will allow you to get trekking insurance up to 20,000 feet (6,000 meters) above sea level. This makes it great for climbers looking to hike up to Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal or other places around the world like the Alps, the Andes or Kilimanjaro! 

Another great aspect that we like about the Travelex’s service, is that they have an app that you can download which will provide important information about the country you are traveling to. It will help keep you safe by providing real-time security alerts, information about food and water safety, as well as ATM locations! 

If you are looking for a budget travel insurance plan that will cover the adventure sports aspect of your vacation no matter where you are in the world, Travelex will be a great fit for you! You can get a free quote from hen Travelex climbing insurance . You can also read our full Travelex Insurance review , to learn more about how they are one of the best trekking insurance providers!

Coverage upto 20,000 feet (6,000 meters) above sea level

Free coverage for children under 17

Can apply for pre-existing medical condition waivers

Travel delay coverage of $2,000

Pros and Cons of Travelex Trekking Insurance:

• The travel insurance will include free coverage for children under the age of 17 if they are with an adult that is covered by the insurance policy
• Offers an adventure sports upgrade, including for high elevation trekking
• You can upgrade the plan to get a “cancel for any reason”
• Medical expense coverage is primary, compared to some competitors’ secondary coverage.
• Provides great travel delay coverage. Providing USD $2,000 per person after an initial five-hour delay.
• “Cancel for any reason” coverage provides 50% reimbursement of the non-refundable deposits – which is lower than most travel insurance providers, who usually provide 75%
• The emergency medical expense coverage for the Travel Select plan is $50,000, compared to higher levels from top competitors.
• Baggage delay benefits only apply after an initial 12-hour wait – longer than most companies

What is emergency medical evacuation (Medevac) insurance?

Medical evacuation insurance is a common inclusion within comprehensive travel insurance policies, often referred to as emergency medical evacuation, medical evacuation, or repatriation insurance.

Coverage is designed to handle the expenses associated with emergency medical transportation in the event of a serious injury or illness while you are traveling – no matter where you are in the world. Should you encounter a medical emergency and the nearest appropriate treatment center is distant, this insurance may also cover the cost of transporting you back to your home.

There are differences between medical evacuation insurance and standard medical travel insurance which you should be aware of before deciding which coverage to purchase. The section below highlights these differences.

Medical Evacuation Insurance vs. Medical Travel Insurance:

While traveling, it is prudent to have both emergency medical evacuation coverage and travel medical insurance in place. These insurance products complement each other, offering distinct benefits for crucial services and treatments you may require during your travels.

While searching for the most suitable travel insurance plan, remember that medical evacuation coverage caters to the expenses involved in transporting you to receive proper medical care. This coverage applies whether it entails emergency helicopter rescue or plane journey to a local hospital or a medically-supported trip back to the United States from a non-U.S. hospital.

On the other hand, medical travel insurance covers emergency medical care you might need while away from home, encompassing procedures like surgeries, treatments, and medicines required for your recovery. This coverage can also address doctor’s bills, X-rays, lab tests, and other medical services necessary during your trip. Some travel medical insurance policies even provide a separate limit for dental expenses if an accident leads to dental trauma requiring treatment.

The main differences between Medical Evacuation Insurance and Medical Travel Insurance lie in their specific coverage and focus:

1. Coverage Scope:

• Medical Evacuation Insurance: This type of insurance primarily focuses on emergency transportation services, arranging for transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility in the event of a serious injury or illness during travel.
• Medical Travel Insurance: On the other hand, Medical Travel Insurance primarily covers the costs of medical treatment and expenses incurred during your trip. It addresses emergency medical care, doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, and other related medical services required during your travels.

2. Main Purpose:

• Medical Evacuation Insurance: The main purpose of Medical Evacuation Insurance is to guarantee timely and effective evacuation in critical situations where local medical facilities may not be equipped to provide adequate care.
• Medical Travel Insurance: Medical Travel Insurance is designed to cover the costs of medical treatments and services while traveling, similar to health insurance coverage. It ensures that you have access to necessary medical care and alleviates the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses abroad.

3. Service Activation:

• Medical Evacuation Insurance: This insurance is typically activated when a qualified physician certifies that your injury or illness requires immediate evacuation for proper medical treatment. The insurance company arranges and coordinates the evacuation process to ensure your safety.
• Medical Travel Insurance: Medical Travel Insurance comes into play when you need medical attention during your trip. It covers the expenses incurred for medical treatments and services received while traveling.

In summary, Medical Evacuation Insurance centers on providing emergency transportation services, while Medical Travel Insurance concentrates on covering medical treatments and services during your journey. These two types of insurance can be complementary, offering a comprehensive safety net for travelers facing medical emergencies away from home.

What Does Medical Evacuation Insurance Cover?

In remote locations, medical evacuation expenses can be costly. Daniel Durazo , a spokesperson with Allianz Global Assistance had this to say:

“The cost of emergency medical transportation can run into the tens of thousands of dollars or more, and varies based on the traveler’s health condition, care required and their location.” 

Lacking emergency medical evacuation (Medevac) insurance means you would be burdened with the full weight of these expenses in the event you require transportation via helicopter, plane, or ambulance to preserve your life.

An example of what you may have to pay depending on your location in the world are as follows:

Break Down of Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance Coverage:

Here is a summary of what medical evacuation insurance typically covers:

1. Emergency transportation:

Reparation medical insurance can pay for the cost of emergency transportation to the nearest suitable treatment center if you encounter a serious illness or injury during your travels and require immediate medical attention. It may also cover the expenses for transporting you back to the U.S. if medically necessary. Additionally, if you need to return to the U.S. for further treatment or recovery after being treated abroad, the insurance can cover the flight home.

2. Medical escort services:

If you need specialized medical care during your flight home, medical evacuation insurance can cover the associated costs for arranging a medical professional to accompany you.

3. Travel expenses for a friend or family member:

If you are hospitalized due to a covered illness or injury, the insurance can pay for a round-trip flight for a friend or family member to stay with you during your hospitalization. There may be a minimum hospital-stay requirement to qualify for this benefit.

4. Costs for a bedside companion:

Some medical evacuation benefits include compensation for hotel stays, meals, and other reasonable expenses incurred by your traveling companion while staying near you during your hospitalization.

5. Repatriation of your children:

If you are hospitalized during your trip and traveling with your children, the insurance company can arrange for your children to fly back home or to another U.S.-based location. The benefits can cover the cost, minus any refunds for unused plane tickets. This benefit also typically has a minimum number of days of hospitalization required to file a claim.

6. Repatriation of remains:

In the unfortunate event of death during the trip, the cost of transporting the remains back home can be covered by the repatriation benefits included in your medical evacuation coverage.

When Do You Need Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance?

Medical evacuation benefits can prove invaluable if you encounter a serious illness or suffer a severe injury during your trip, and the local hospitals lack the necessary resources to provide adequate treatment. Additionally, having the insurance company act as an intermediary in organizing transportation and medical services can be extremely beneficial during a medical emergency in a foreign land.

The travel medical insurance included in your travel insurance plan covers a range of expenses, including doctor and hospital bills, X-rays, lab work, medications, and other related costs, up to the limit specified in your medical coverage. It’s important to note that evacuation insurance and travel medical insurance come with separate coverage limits. For example, a comprehensive travel insurance plan might offer up to $500,000 for medical expenses and up to $1 million for evacuation.

Once you are well enough to travel, your travel insurance company can also cover the cost of your flight back home, ensuring you receive the necessary care and assistance throughout your journey.

Want more info about when you might need travel insurance, take a look at our why do I need travel insurance blog.

Do You Need Both Medical Evacuation and Travel Medical Insurance?

Having both medical evacuation travel insurance and travel medical insurance is a prudent decision when traveling abroad. According to Durazo from Allianz, purchasing travel insurance with emergency medical coverage and transportation benefits becomes crucial if you wish to avoid paying all your medical expenses out of pocket.

When traveling outside the U.S., obtaining travel medical expense insurance is often essential, as domestic health insurance plans might provide limited or no international coverage. It’s advisable to check with your health insurance company to determine if your plan offers global coverage and if it falls under the category of “out of network.” Additionally, senior travelers should be aware that Medicare is not accepted abroad.

How To Use Emergency Medical Evacuation (Medevac) Insurance?

To utilize medical evacuation insurance, typically, you will need an emergency evacuation prescribed by the attending physician at the location, certifying that the seriousness of your accidental injury or illness necessitates the evacuation.

Ideally, your travel insurance company should assist in arranging the medevac and approve it beforehand. However, if immediate approval is not feasible, informing your travel insurance company as soon as possible becomes essential.

Typically, to make use of your emergency medical evacuation insurance, you will should follow these steps:

1. Seek approval immediately:

If you encounter illness or injury during your trip and require emergency medical transportation, the first step is to obtain approval from your travel insurance provider before using the service. Each provider offers a 24-hour hotline that you, the in-house doctor, or a medical professional can call to expedite the process. It’s crucial to do this promptly.

2. Keep all receipts and bills:

Depending on your travel insurance plan, medical transportation bills may be paid directly by the insurance company or require upfront payment, followed by reimbursement later. In either case, it is essential to preserve all documents and receipts related to your incident or illness, including bills and paperwork that substantiate your medical expenses.

3. File a claim online or over the phone:

Upon returning home, contact your travel insurance provider to inquire about the status of your claims. You may need to submit a separate claim for the emergency medical evacuation and other services used from your plan, or you might only need to provide supporting documentation to utilize your coverage.

Stay Protected as you Travel with Medical Evacuation Insurance:

Medical evacuation insurance, also known as emergency medical evacuation insurance or travel insurance for medical evacuation, serves as a vital safety net for travelers venturing far from home. The coverage ensures prompt and efficient emergency transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility, or even to your home country, should a serious injury or illness arise during their journey.

With the added benefit of medical evacuation and repatriation insurance, travelers can rest assured that they are financially protected when facing unforeseen medical crises abroad – even while trekking in Nepal and traveling in some of the most remote places in the world. By securing this comprehensive coverage and understanding the steps involved in utilizing it, travelers can embark on their adventures with peace of mind, knowing that they have a reliable support system in place should the need for emergency medical evacuation arise.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

What is medical evacuation and repatriation insurance cover?

Medical evacuation and repatriation insurance covers the cost of travelling for medical treatment should it not be available locally. if an international worker or their dependants are ill or injured and the required medical treatment is not available locally, they are transferred to the nearest suitable medical facility., the vital role of international health insurance providers in times of crisis.

For expats and their families living or working in remote areas where there may not be easy access to medical facilities, the inclusion of medical evacuation and repatriation cover may be an important part of their health insurance

The international private medical insurance industry is experiencing a significant increase in medical evacuations and repatriations due, in part to the growing number of international companies with staff working overseas; workforces in remote and often hazardous regions (e.g. mining companies), together with the rise in climate-related natural disasters.  With ever more companies seeking business opportunities overseas, employers recognise the compelling need to provide global healthcare cover for their staff.  In many countries medical insurance is a legal requirement and domestic cover may not offer as comprehensive a level of cover as international private medical insurance (iPMI). Healthcare is a major concern for expats and their families and it is hugely reassuring for them to know that they are covered, regardless of location, by a health insurer who literally speaks their language. Medical evacuations are carried out when international workers or their dependants get ill or injured and the required medical treatment is not available locally, at which point they need to be taken to the nearest suitable medical facility.  The countries from which Allianz Worldwide Care clients are most frequently evacuated include Mozambique, Libya and China, where specialist medical care is limited. South Africa and Germany are among the countries to which members are most commonly evacuated, due to the availability of centres of medical excellence and specialist care facilities.  The difference between medical evacuations and medical repatriations is that for repatriations, the insured member is returned to their home country for treatment, where medically appropriate and possible. 

The process

The challenges.

As one might expect, managing medical evacuations on a global basis is not without its challenges.  Insurance companies have to overcome a range of potential obstacles such as failing, archaic or sometimes non-existent communication infrastructure, restricted air space, the impact of weather, or even political or rebel unrest. However, global providers are well prepared for these kinds of challenges and experience and determination are a formidable combination. We always strive to find the nearest medical centre but they may not always have the most suitable facilities. For example, a member that recently needed medical evacuation was located in Papua New Guinea, but while the capital Port Moresby was nearby, the hospital did not have the required medical facilities. Instead we had to evacuate the member to Cairns in Australia which was the nearest centre of excellence.  To evacuate a member, we need a copy of their passport plus, where required, a visa or permit for the country to which they will be moved. Visa’s can be difficult to obtain, particularly given the very tight deadlines to which we are operating, but with a strong network of medical partners located all over the world, we are always able to assist the member.  

To apply for an emergency visa, the following items are needed: 

• Medical report by the treating physician including a justification for needing treatment in the chosen country.
• Invitation letter from the admitting medical facility in the chosen country, confirming the acceptance of the patient and willingness to provide treatment. (This letter should also include the estimated length of stay and estimated costs)
• Letter from either the insurer, patient’s family or patient’s employer confirming financial cover for the patient's transportation, medical and living expenses.

Following the application, there are two different scenarios that may occur: 

• Emergency visa is issued on arrival.
• Emergency visa is issued after application - a representative or family member needs to attend a visa application centre or embassy and make an application on behalf of the patient. 

We will have the experience, local partners, knowledge and emergency procedures in place to deal with the VISA application on behalf of the client, if support is needed.  Technology has played a significant role in helping us to overcome many challenges, increasing the survival rates during evacuations. Advances in technology can be seen at every stage of the evacuation process, from communication, to portable medical equipment, to the air ambulance themselves, where technology allows them to fly at altitudes and speeds that minimise the risk of medical deterioration.

Five continents, hundreds of evacuations

Final thoughts, related articles.

Best countries to start a new life abroad in 2024

Planning a move abroad in 2024? Discover why Canada, Portugal, and Denmark are the top choices for expats seeking new opportunities, cultural experiences, and a fresh start.

Combatting SAD with indoor plants

Discover how indoor plants can combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) by improving mood, reducing stress, and purifying the air. Learn about the best houseplants to enhance your wellbeing.

Are supplements safe

Ten things you should know. Healthcare professionals often recommend supplements if you have certain health conditions, are at risk of certain conditions, or have a nutrient deficiency in your diet.

How to make friends and feel safe

Discover the top ten tips for making new friends safely. Learn how joining groups, taking classes, volunteering, and using social media can help you forge meaningful connections and enhance your wellbeing.

Managing Long-COVID Fatigue and Symptoms

Manage long-COVID symptoms with tips on pacing yourself, maintaining sleep schedules, exercising, eating well, staying hydrated, and seeking professional help. Boost your energy and well-being today.

Expat Guide to Living in Thailand

Thinking of relocating to Thailand? We have you covered with the most important things every expat should know about living in Thailand.

What are the benefits of cold water therapy?

Discover the surprising benefits of cold water therapy! From muscle recovery to mood enhancement, explore how icy plunges can boost your well-being.

What to Know About AI Mental Health Support

Thinking about using an AI mental health platform? Here are the pros, cons, and what you should consider.

How to Use a Virtual Health Assistant

Curious about how AI could help you to access healthcare? Here’s how using a virtual health assistant works.

How AI May Help You Live Longer

How can the average person live longer with AI? Accessing AI in healthcare is easier than you think.

The potential for AI in healthcare

Artificial intelligence in healthcare has the potential to transform the way we diagnose, treat and prevent diseases.

The Best Self-care Tips for Your Mental Health

Boost your mental health with these self-care tips! From exercise to gratitude practices, prioritise your well-being with these eight actionable strategies. Start your journey to improved mental wellness today!

Creating a Family-Friendly Home Office

With the rise of remote work, many parents are struggling with creating a family-friendly home office.

While most people who get COVID-19 recover quickly, for some it can cause symptoms that last for weeks or even months.

The dangers of vaping

Health experts are warning about the serious health risks associated with vaping.

• Single Trip
• Annual Multi-Trip
• Winter Sports & Ski
• Collision Damage Waiver
• Sport & Leisure
• Medical Conditions
• Travel Insurance for Non-UK Residents
• Group Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance for Couples
• Covid-19 travel insurance
• About Our Travel Insurance
• Holiday Cancellation Insurance
• Emergency Medical Assistance Cover
• Emergency Medical Cover for Travel Insurance
• Repatriation Insurance
• Baggage Cover
• Travel Insurance for Under 18s
• Comprehensive
• What's Covered
• Excluded Vehicles
• Range Rover
• Car Hire Excess Insurance
• Policy Information
• File a Claim
• Insurance Glossary
• Coronavirus - Annual Multi-trip Policy

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance Cover

Medical emergency and repatriation insurance.

Repatriation cover comes as standard on most travel insurance policies . In the event that you fall ill or are injured on holiday and you are unable to get the level of treatment you need, then repatriation cover supports you by covering costs should it be decided that the best course of action is to bring you or a travelling companion home to continue treatment.

The decision could be made because of the treatment required being available more readily in the UK or because the cost of treatment may well be cheaper in the UK. This could be particularly true if you fall ill whilst travelling in the United States . 

What does repatriation mean?

At its simplest it means returning someone to their home country.

Repatriation insurance in the context of travel insurance means the return home of you or a travelling companion after an illness or injury to continue care and recovery in the UK. It can also apply in the event of death and the return of the body to the UK.

The form repatriation can take include being escorted back home on a repatriation flight or getting you home using an air ambulance.

Get covered in 3 minutes

Does travel insurance include repatriation?

Yes. Repatriation cover normally comes as standard on travel insurance policies.

Our single trip travel insurance , annual multi-trip travel insurance and backpacker travel insurance policies all include repatriation as standard under the emergency medical assistance section. We provide cover up to £2,000,000 on our Bronze level cover, up to £5,000,000 with our Silver level cover and up to £10,000,000 on our Gold level cover. 

What does Repatriation Insurance cover?

• Organisation of getting you home : We'll make sure that once it become clear that you need to return to the UK for treatment the organisation of travel is handled quickly and efficiently, leaving you to concentrate on your recovery.
• Relative accommodation and travel costs : We could help to cover the cost of having a close friend or relative stay with you during your treatment and repatriation to the UK providing support and comfort at the most difficult of times.
• 24/7 emergency assistance helpline : We're here no matter where you are, when you need us or how many times. Our emergency assistance helpline is available in your policy documents and can be a first port of call for repatriation issues.
• Repatriation due to death : In the unfortunate event that an insured individual passes away while overseas we could assist with the repatriation of the body.

What doesn't it cover?

There are some things that could invalidate your claim under the repatriation insurance section of cover, meaning you’ll have to cover the cost of medical expenses and getting back home yourself. These include:

• Pre-existing medical conditions that haven’t been declared and accepted by your insurer
• Illness and injuries that happen while you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Injuries caused by your or a travelling companion's  violent  conduct and reckless behaviour
• Travelling to countries against UK government advice
• High-risk sports and activities that aren’t covered by your travel insurance policy.

For more information regarding repatriation cover please see the policy documents .

Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, as with our policies, the insurer makes the decision on whether it would be best to repatriate you. This decision is based on conversations with our in house medical advisers and the doctor who is treating you at the time.

Once the decision is confirmed, usually repatriation will be via a regular airline or ambulance, but in serious cases where it is medically urgent we will use air ambulances – we’ll make sure this is the case by consulting with the doctor treating you and our medical advisers.

When heading home, you will need the doctor treating you to provide a fit to fly certificate to ensure that you are able to board the repatriation flight back to the UK. 

Should you need any help, our assistance co-ordinators can help answer your questions at any time of the day or night.

Whilst we would recommend that you have a valid GHIC card when you travel, it is not a replacement for travel insurance.

The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) only covers state-run emergency medical treatment in the EU. It does not cover the cost of repatriation to bring you back to the UK. So if you fell ill and need to return home in order to find or continue treatment then you will need a travel insurance policy in order to provide cover for this.

Certainly it is something that you hope not to need, but to cover for that eventuality repatriation insurance is usually included as standard on  most travel insurance policies.

With our single trip , annual multi-trip and backpacker policies you can be covered for up to £10,000,000 which should be more than enough to bring you home should you require repatriation to the UK.

Popular insurance types that may interest you

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Single Trip Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance for Backpackers

Make A Claim?

Policy documents.

Agent Information

Travel medical insurance for trips including the usa.

Provides protection for trips outside your home country

To buy this plan, you must be a non-U.S. resident and non-U.S. citizen who is at least 14 days of age or older. Green Card/Permanent Resident cardholders may not buy this plan.

Travel medical coverage with optional pandemic protection.

Life happens quickly. Unfortunately, accidents and illnesses do too. That's why it's important to have international medical insurance when you travel internationally.

With our travel insurance, you choose the coverage you want, and you receive important benefits for pre-existing medical conditions and emergency medical evacuations. And, while you’re in the USA, you have access to one of the largest medical networks available.

No matter where you go, Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance follows you with:

Medical maximums up to $1,000,000

COVID-19 coverage up to your medical maximum if you contract it while traveling.

Do you need a Schengen visa for travel to Europe?

Choose Seven Corners Travel Medical Choice and select a $0 deductible to be certain you meet minimum requirements.

Plan Options

All benefits listed below are in United States dollar amounts. All medical and dental benefits are subject to deductible and/or copay and coinsurance. The initial treatment of an Injury or Illness must occur within 30 days of the date of Injury or onset of Illness. Unless otherwise stated, all benefits are per person, per period of coverage, and they are provided up to the amount shown.

Emergency Services and Assistance**

Other travel benefits, optional coverage.

THIS IS A LIMITED BENEFIT POLICY. The insurance described on this page provides limited benefits. Limited benefits plans are insurance products with reduced benefits intended to supplement comprehensive health insurance plans. This insurance is not an alternative to comprehensive coverage. It does not provide major medical or comprehensive medical coverage and is not designed to replace major medical insurance. Further, this insurance is not minimum essential benefits as set forth under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

* URC means Usual, Reasonable, and Customary. It is the maximum amount we will pay for covered expenses based on several factors. See the definition in the plan document for more details.

** Arrangement of the above benefits are not insurance and are handled by Seven Corners Assist. If you do not contact Seven Corners Assist, the benefit will be limited to the amount we would have paid if Seven Corners Assist was utilized. The requirement to use Seven Corners Assist does not apply to Return of Mortal Remains or Local Burial/Cremation. Crum & Forster SPC provides the insurance benefits.

• Frequently Asked Questions

How this plan works

What documents do i receive after buying international travel medical insurance from seven corners.

Once you complete your purchase, you will immediately receive a receipt, a summary of your benefits, an ID card, and a copy of the plan document. The plan document is a legal document that explains how your coverage works, including a list of exclusions. We recommend you read your plan document, so you understand how your plan works.

Who can buy a Seven Corners Travel Medical plan for trips including the USA?

Travelers must be non-U.S. residents and non-U.S. citizens who are 14 days of age or older. They also must be traveling outside their home country, which is where they have their primary residence.

U.S. citizens, including those with dual citizenship, cannot buy this plan.

If you are a Green Card/Permanent Resident cardholder, you may not buy this plan.

Country Restrictions — We cannot sell to persons who are a resident of Australia, Cuba, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), Gambia, Ghana, Islamic Republic of Iran, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Syrian Arab Republic, and United States Virgin Islands.

Where can I travel?

You are covered for worldwide trips that include the USA if you are traveling outside of your home country, which is the country where you have your permanent residence.

Destination Restrictions — We cannot cover trips to Afghanistan, Antarctica, Belarus, Cuba, Haiti, Iraq, Islamic Republic of Iran, Israel, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Myanmar, Palestinian Territory Occupied, Russian Federation, South Sudan, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic, and Yemen.

How long can I be covered by this plan?

Your coverage length may vary from 5 days to 364 days.

When does my coverage start?

Your plan’s effective date is the start date of your plan, on the later of the following:

• 12 a.m. the day after we receive your application and correct payment;
• The moment you depart your home country;
• 12 a.m. on the date you request.

All times above refer to United States Eastern Time.

When does my coverage end?

Your plan’s expiration date is the date your coverage ends, which is the earliest of the following:

• The moment you return to your home country (except for coverage through Incidental Trips to Home Country and Extension of Benefits in Home Country);
• 11:59 p.m. on the date you reach the maximum period of coverage;
• 11:59 p.m. on the date shown on your ID card;
• 11:59 p.m. on the date that is the end of the period for which you paid; or
• The moment you are no longer eligible for coverage.

Can I extend my plan?

If you initially buy less than 364 days of coverage, you may buy additional time, to a total of 364 days. Your original effective date is used to calculate your deductible and coinsurance and to determine pre-existing conditions and if maximum coverage amounts have been reached.

We will email you an extension notice before your coverage expires, giving you the option to extend your plan. A $5 administrative fee is charged for each extension.

Does this plan provide primary coverage or secondary coverage?

All coverages in this plan except Accidental Death & Dismemberment are in excess of other insurance or similar benefit programs and apply only when such benefits are exhausted. This plan is secondary coverage to other insurance. Such other insurance or similar benefit programs may include, but are not limited to, membership benefits; workers’ compensation benefits/programs; government programs; group or blanket coverage; prepayment coverage; union, labor, or employee plans; socialized insurance programs or program otherwise required by law or statute; automobile insurance; or third-party liability insurance.

Will Seven Corners give me a refund for this plan if I’m not satisfied?

We will refund your payment if we receive your written request for a refund before your effective date of coverage. If your request is received after your effective date, the unused portion of the plan cost may be refunded minus a $35 cancellation fee, if you have not submitted any claims to Seven Corners.

Where can I find what is not covered by this plan?

You can find situations and items not covered by this plan in the exclusions section of the Travel Medical Basic and Travel Medical Choice plan documents..

Who provides the coverage for this plan?

Your underwriter is Crum & Forster SPC.

Insurance benefits are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company. C&F and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United States Fire Insurance Company. The Crum & Forster group of companies is rated A (Excellent) by AM Best Company 2023.

Seven Corners administers your plan.

Seven Corners will handle your travel medical insurance needs from start to finish. We will process your purchase, provide all documents, and handle any claims. In addition, our own in-house team, Seven Corners Assist, will handle your travel assistance needs, including emergency services such as emergency medical evacuations and repatriations.*

*These types of service are not insurance and are not affiliated with Crum & Forster, SPC. They are provided by Seven Corners Assist.

Travel Medical Benefits and Coverage

How do i find a medical provider when i’m traveling.

Visit sevencorners.com/help/find-a-doctor or contact Seven Corners Assist to learn how to find medical treatment.

Inside the United States — We offer an extensive network of providers with special network pricing and potential savings for you.

Through Seven Corners’ relationship with UnitedHealthcare, you have access to one of the largest networks in the United States.

• 1.4M physicians
• 6,500 hospitals
• 45,000 clinics
• 67,000 pharmacies
• 1,800 convenience clinics

Outside of the United States — Seven Corners has a large international directory of providers, and many of them will bill Seven Corners direct for treatment they provide. We recommend you contact us for a referral, but you may seek treatment at any facility.

Utilizing the network does not guarantee benefits or that the treating facility will bill Seven Corners direct. We do not guarantee payment to a facility or individual until we determine the expense is covered by the plan.

What is a pre-existing condition?

It is any injury or illness, including mental illness or mental or nervous disorder, which meet one or more of the following criteria prior to Your Effective Date of Coverage:

• You were diagnosed;
• You received treatment;
• Treatment was recommended to you;
• There is reasonable medical certainty that the injury or illness existed within the last 36 months, whether or not previously manifested, symptomatic, known, diagnosed, treated, or disclosed.

This includes any chronic, subsequent, or recurring complications of an Injury or Illness which meets the above criteria.

How does Seven Corners cover pre-existing conditions on international travel insurance?

Many travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions. Seven Corners Travel Medical covers them through the Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions benefit.

Coverage amounts vary by age and plan. See the schedule of benefits in the plan document for details.

An Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition is the occurrence of a pre-existing condition that meets these criteria:

• It is sudden, unexpected, and occurs without advanced warning;
• It is a medical emergency;
• It occurs during the period of coverage, and after the 168-hour (7-day) waiting period;
• You obtained treatment within 24 hours of the occurrence;
• You did not have a change in prescription or treatment related to the underlying pre-existing condition within the last 30 days; and
• Your pre-existing condition is not congenital, a previously diagnosed chronic condition with expected episodes or flare-ups, or a deteriorating condition which cannot be controlled and gradually intensifies over time.

A pre-existing condition is not an acute onset of a pre-existing condition if:

• The condition is chronic, congenital, or gradually becomes worse over time; or
• If, during the 30 days prior to the acute event, you had a change in prescription or treatment for a diagnosis related to the underlying pre-existing condition.

Coverage begins 168 hours after the effective date of coverage and ends when the first of these events occurs:

• The condition no longer being acute; or
• Your discharge from the hospital.

There is no coverage for known, scheduled, required, or expected medical care, drugs, or treatment existent or necessary prior to departure from your home country and before your coverage begins.

There is no coverage for treatment for which you have traveled or conditions for which travel was undertaken after your physician limited or restricted travel.

PPACA – Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Does this plan provide benefits required by ppaca.

This insurance is not subject to and does not provide certain insurance benefits required by the United States’ Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“PPACA”). PPACA requires certain U.S. citizens or U.S. residents to obtain PPACA compliant health insurance, or “minimum essential coverage.” PPACA also requires certain employers to offer PPACA compliant insurance coverage to their employees. Tax penalties may be imposed on U.S. residents or citizens who do not maintain minimum essential coverage, and on certain employers who do not offer PPACA compliant insurance coverage to their employees. In some cases, certain individuals may be deemed to have minimum essential coverage under PPACA even if their insurance coverage does not provide all of the benefits required by PPACA. You should consult your attorney or tax professional to determine whether the policy meets any obligations you may have under PPACA.

• Travel Medical Including USA

Plan Documents

• Travel Medical Basic
• Travel Medical Choice

Limitations, exclusions and disclaimers from Crum & Forster, SPC.

Disclaimer: The above information is a summary of the important features of the plan. It is not a contract of insurance. This plan includes both insurance and non-insurance benefits. The terms and conditions of coverage are set forth in the Plan issued to the policyholder. For a detailed plan description, exclusions, and limitations please view the plan on file with Seven Corners, Inc. The Policy contains a complete description of all of the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the insurance plan as underwritten by Crum & Forster, SPC. The Policy will prevail in the event of any discrepancy between this web page and the Policy.

20240507-3453924

UnitedHealthcare and the U logo are trademarks owned by UnitedHealth Group Incorporated which are registered in the U.S. and various other jurisdictions. Administrative services provided by UnitedHealthcare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. UnitedHealth Group and its affiliates do not and cannot guarantee clinical outcomes. Insurance coverage provided by Seven Corners.

PPO networks are not provided by Crum & Forster, SPC.

303 Congressional Blvd.

Carmel, Indiana 46032

Our Markets

• Consumer Insurance
• Government Solutions
• Trip Protection
• Trip Protection Annual Multi-Trip
• Trip Protection USA
• Travel Medical
• Travel Medical USA Visitor
• Cruise Insurance
• Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• Partnerships
• 24 Hour Urgent Travel Assistance
• Developer Portal
• System Status

[email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Seven Corners Inc. All rights reserved.

Privacy   |   Cookies   |   Terms of Use   |   Security

• Get Benzinga Pro
• Data & APIs
• Our Services
• News Earnings Guidance Dividends M&A Buybacks Legal Interviews Management Offerings IPOs Insider Trades Biotech/FDA Politics Government Healthcare
• Markets Pre-Market After Hours Movers ETFs Forex Cannabis Commodities Binary Options Bonds Futures CME Group Global Economics Previews Small-Cap Real Estate Cryptocurrency Penny Stocks Digital Securities Volatility
• Ratings Analyst Color Downgrades Upgrades Initiations Price Target
• Ideas Trade Ideas Covey Trade Ideas Long Ideas Short Ideas Technicals From The Press Jim Cramer Rumors Best Stocks & ETFs Best Penny Stocks Best S&P 500 ETFs Best Swing Trade Stocks Best Blue Chip Stocks Best High-Volume Penny Stocks Best Small Cap ETFs Best Stocks to Day Trade Best REITs
• Money Investing Cryptocurrency Mortgage Insurance Yield Personal Finance Forex Startup Investing Real Estate Investing Credit Cards
• Cannabis Cannabis Conference News Earnings Interviews Deals Regulations Psychedelics

5 Things You Must Know Before Ever Buying Travel Insurance

Whether you are a frequent traveler or someone who only takes one long vacation a year, having travel insurance is always a good idea, especially if you plan to go abroad. Travel insurance can help you cover any unexpected expenses like medical care and lost or delayed baggage. 

However, before buying travel insurance there are five key things you should keep in mind to ensure the best coverage for your needs:

Always Understand Properly What You Are Getting 

Not all insurance policies are equal. The coverage usually includes trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. However, picking the cheapest insurance may come with certain exclusions and claim limits. For instance, some policies also cover natural disasters, while others don't.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Matter

Declaring pre-existing medical conditions is required for every insurance, including travel. Checking things like whether the policy covers any necessary doctor visit or hospital stay related to a previous condition is included in the policy or not, will help you immensely later.

Check The Claim Process To Avoid Any Hassle Later 

Before purchasing a policy, check how the claims are processed and the documentation you will require. While some insurers have a straightforward online process, others may need more legwork. To get a better understanding, checking reviews of past customers can be helpful.

Where You Plan To Go Will Affect Your Insurance Needs 

Whether you plan to go to one place or more, your destination will play a role in determining the travel insurance policy needed. For example, if you plan to go to a place with a history of political upheaval or terrorism, choosing a policy with evacuation coverage would be wise.

Don't Settle For The First Policy You Find

Doing research, comparing notes of customer reviews, cost and coverage, and shopping around for different plans, helps you tailor the best policy for your need. Create a checklist of what are your requirements, and then compare policies. Websites with aggregated insurance options can be a good starting point.

Photo generated using Dall-E

© 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Trade confidently with insights and alerts from analyst ratings, free reports and breaking news that affects the stocks you care about.

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 Best Travel Medical Insurance of 2024

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Seven Corners »

GeoBlue »

WorldTrips »

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 Travel Medical Insurance Plans.

Table of Contents

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Seven Corners

Buying travel insurance is a smart move for any type of trip, but you may not need a policy that covers everything under the sun. If you don't need coverage for trip cancellations or delays because you're relying on your travel credit card to offer these protections, for example, you may find you only need emergency medical coverage that works away from home.

Still, travel medical coverage varies widely based on included benefits, policy limits and more. If you're comparing travel insurance plans and hoping to find the best option for unexpected medical expenses, read on to learn which policies we recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term travel insurance usually describes a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for medical expenses as well as trip cancellations and interruptions, trip delays, lost baggage, and more. Meanwhile, travel medical insurance is coverage that focuses on paying for emergency medical expenses and other related care.

Travelers need international health insurance if they're visiting a place where their own health coverage will not apply. This typically includes all international trips away from home since U.S. health plans limit coverage to care required in the United States.

Note that if you don't have travel health insurance and you become sick or injured abroad, you'll be responsible for paying back any health care costs you incur.

Many travel insurance policies cover emergency medical expenses you incur during a covered trip. However, the included benefits of each policy can vary widely, and so can the policy limits that apply.

If you're looking for a travel insurance policy that offers sufficient protection for unexpected medical expenses, you'll typically want to choose a plan with at least $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical care and at least that much in protection for emergency medical evacuation and transportation.

However, higher limits can provide even more protection from overseas medical bills, which can become pricey depending on the type of care you need. As just one example, Allianz says the average cost of emergency medical evacuation can easily reach up to $200,000 or more depending on where you’re traveling.

Your U.S. health insurance policy almost never covers medical expenses incurred abroad. The same is true for most people on Medicare and especially Medicaid. If you want to ensure you have travel medical coverage that applies overseas, you should purchase a travel insurance plan with adequate limits for every trip. Read the U.S. News article on this topic for more information.

The cost of travel medical insurance can vary depending on the age of the travelers, the type of coverage purchased, the length of the trip and other factors. You can use a comparison site like TravelInsurance.com to explore different travel medical insurance plans and their cost.

• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best Overall
• Seven Corners: Best for Families
• GeoBlue: Best for Expats
• WorldTrips: Best Cost

Coverage for preexisting conditions is available as an add-on

Easy to purchase as needed for individual trips

Relatively low limits for medical expenses

No coverage for trip cancellations or trip interruption

• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage
• Up to $2,000 in coverage for baggage loss and damage
• Up to $600 in baggage delay insurance
• Up to $1,000 for travel delays
• Up to $10,000 in travel accident insurance
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

SEE FULL REVIEW »

Purchase comprehensive medical coverage worth up to $5 million

Coverage for families with up to 10 people

Low coverage amounts for trip interruption

Medical coverage options vary by age

• Up to $5 million in comprehensive medical coverage
• Up to $500,000 in emergency evacuation coverage
• Up to $10,000 in coverage for incidental trips to home country
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for terrorist activity
• Up to $500 in accidental dental emergency coverage
• Up to $100 per occurrence in coverage for emergency eye exams
• $50,000 in coverage for local burial or cremation
• 24/7 travel assistance
• Up to $25,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment per traveler
• Up to $500 for loss of checked baggage
• Up to $5,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $100 per day for trip delays
• Up to $50,000 for personal liability

Qualify for international health insurance with no annual or lifetime caps

Use coverage within the U.S. with select providers

Deductible from $500 to $10,000 can apply

Doesn't come with any nonmedical travel insurance benefits

• Up to $250,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $25,000 for repatriation of mortal remains
• $50,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment

High limits for medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation

Covers multiple trips over a period of up to 364 days

Deductible of $250 required for each covered trip

Copays required for medical care received in the U.S.

• Up to $1,000,000 of maximum coverage
• Up to $1,000,000 for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $10,000 for trip interruptions
• Up to $1,000 for lost checked luggage
• Up to $100 per day for travel delays
• Up to $25,000 in personal liability coverage
• Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19
• Ability to add coverage for your spouse and/or child(ren)
• Repatriation of remains coverage up to overall limit
• Up to $5,000 for local burial or cremation 
• $10,000 to $50,000 for common carrier accidental death

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning content creator who has been writing about travel insurance and travel for more than a decade. She has researched travel insurance options for her own vacations and family trips to more than 50 countries around the world and has experience navigating the claims and reimbursement process. In fact, she has successfully filed several travel insurance claims for trip delays and trip cancellations over the years. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg, who has been licensed to sell travel insurance in 50 states, in their family media business.

You might also be interested in:

9 Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

Holly Johnson

Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations.

8 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Worth the Cost

U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering pricing data, expert recommendations and consumer reviews.

How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance (+ What to Tip)

Suzanne Mason and Rachael Hood

From planning to arrival, get helpful tips to make the journey easier.

Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Yes, in These 3 Scenarios

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

Freely Travel Insurance Review

I never leave home without travel insurance. After over 15 years on the road, I’ve learned firsthand how important it is. Not only has it helped me deal with lost luggage, canceled flights, and medical emergencies, but it’s helped countless friends and readers of my blog too.

However, travel insurance is a boring topic to read about. Nobody likes comparing plans and reading policies. Myself included. It’s the least exciting part of trip planning.

Fortunately, it’s never been easier to find a plan and policy that suits your needs and budget. More and more companies are making it fast and simple to get a quote, sign up for a plan, read the fine print, and make a claim.

One of those companies is Freely .

Table of Contents

What is Freely?

What does freely cover, what’s not covered, how much does freely cost, pros of freely, cons of freely, who is freely for — and not for.

Freely is a travel insurance company and safety app. Like many insurance companies, it provides coverage so you can be made whole should something happen (for a covered reason) while you’re on the road. Its base plan includes all the essentials I look for in an insurance policy, including emergency medical care, emergency evacuation coverage, trip interruption, lost baggage, and 24/7 support.

But Freely does a few things differently too.

Freely keeps its base policy affordable by not including additional coverage that you might not need. But you can upgrade, for example, to get extra coverage for your gear in case you’re bringing valuable electronics or sporting equipment with you. This is a big plus since most travelers bring a phone or laptop with them (often both).

With most other plans, your gear is only covered up to $500 USD per item. Freely lets you add on to your plan to cover your gear up to $1,500 USD per item.

But what’s really useful (and unique) is Freely’s Daily Boost supplement.

Daily Boosts are insurance add-ons for things you won’t need every day, such as coverage to go skiing, rent a car, or go skydiving. Paying for these add-ons only when you need them (on a day-by-day basis) ensures that your policy as a whole remains less expensive — but you get the coverage you need when you need it.

For example, snow or adventure activities cost just $1 USD per day, while rental car coverage is $15 USD per day (pricing varies by state). If you only are going skiing for a few days of your trip or won’t be renting a vehicle for your entire vacation, the daily boost ensures you aren’t paying for what you don’t need.  

Emergency Medical Expenses This is the most important component of any insurance plan. It’s what will come into play if you fall down some stairs and break a leg or are hospitalized because you get hit by a car, get sick, etc. In short, if you’re sent to a hospital or doctor, this is what offers you emergency medical coverage.

I always recommend travelers have at least $100,000 USD in coverage because hospital bills add up fast. Freely offers $500,000 USD in coverage on the base plan. That’s a high limit and can cover you for everything the road throws your way.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation Medical and emergency evacuations can be incredibly expensive. These might be required if you get injured while hiking and need to be airlifted to the hospital, or if you have to be repatriated to your home country.

Incidents like these can cost upwards of $250,000 USD, which is enough to bankrupt most travelers. Fortunately, Freely’s base policy covers up to $1,000,000 USD for emergency evacuations. That’s more than a lot of other insurance companies offer should you need an emergency evacuation.

Emergency Dental Expense I always appreciate travel insurance policies that cover emergency dental care. Freely offers $1,000 USD for emergency coverage on its base plan. This doesn’t mean you can go get a dental check-up if you have a cavity or want a cleaning, but rather that you’ll be able to see a dentist should you experience an unforeseen emergency or sudden pain while on your trip.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment Nobody wants to think about the worst-case scenario of dying on the road (I sure don’t) but knowing that your insurance policy can cover these eventualities offers a lot of peace of mind. For example, the policy pays $50,000 USD for accidental death, which (not to get too morbid) will likely be helpful to your loved ones should the worst occur.

Trip Interruption When you miss part of your trip or have to return home early due to eligible unforeseen circumstances (such as illness or injury), Freely will reimburse you up to 150% of the cost of the trip. Considering how often flights are delayed and how often a natural disaster occurs, this is a solid addition and something not a lot of affordable plans include.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Baggage Freely’s coverage for lost or stolen baggage is similar to other companies, in that there’s a per-item limit of $500 USD and a total cap of $2,500 USD. While that’s good for a lot of gear, such as a basic digital camera or sporting equipment, it may not cover the entire price of a laptop or more heavy-duty camera.

However, as I mentioned above, you can buy an add-on for additional coverage. This will bump your baggage per-item limit to $1,500 USD and the total limit to $5,000 USD. Your electronic and professional equipment coverage is $2,000 USD, which provides substantial coverage for your phone or laptop.

While the cost for this upgrade will vary, using the example below (a month long trip to Thailand), it would cost around $23 USD for the add-on. That’s super affordable.

Baggage Delay This is a nice perk for anyone who isn’t traveling carry-on only. Essentially, if your luggage is delayed 12 hours or more, you’ll qualify for up to $250 USD so you can buy necessary clothing and personal items (within a reasonable limit). With Baggage Upgrade this benefit can be increased by $100 USD.

Note : As with any insurance plan, you’ll want to read the fine print of your policy for more information. Additionally, details might be different based on where you live, so always double-check while researching just to be safe.  

Freely is primarily geared toward covering medical emergencies and basic travel mishaps (like delays and lost luggage). It’s good practice to tell you what’s not covered, such as the following:

• Alcohol- or drug-related incidents
• Any electronics over $500 USD (without an add-on)
• Certain high-risk activities (e.g., driving in a motor vehicle competition)
• Participation in professional or amateur athletics competitions
• Losses incurred because of a pre-existing medical condition.

If you’re not sure if the activity you want to do is covered, or if you want more information about what is not covered, reach out to Freely directly.

Currently, Freely’s policies are available only to residents of the US and Australia. Coverage described in this article is specific to the US product.  

You can get a quote online at freely.me in less than one minute. You just need to input basic information, like where you live, where you’re going, how long you’re traveling for, and how much your trip costs.

For example, someone aged 30 going from the US to Thailand for one month will pay around $40 USD for base coverage. That is for a trip costing around $2,000 USD and not including any extras or Daily Boosts.

Click here to get a quote from Freely .

One thing I like about Freely when it comes to getting quotes is that they tell you what isn’t covered. A lot of companies just imply that (i.e., if it’s not mentioned, it’s not covered).

Freely, on the other hand, explicitly adds reminders of what is not covered when you’re looking for a policy, so as to ensure that your expectations are accurate.

• 24/7 emergency assistance
• Emergency medical coverage
• Emergency Evacuation and trip interruption coverage
• Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
• COVID coverage
• Daily add-ons available for extra gear and activities
• Only available in the US and Australia
• Downloading the app is required

Freely is very affordable, making it a solid choice for backpackers and budget travelers. Long-term travelers who are more flexible with their plans will also appreciate being able to update their policy right in the app.

It’s also a great choice for adventurous travelers since you can add Daily Boosts for things like skydiving, scuba diving, etc.

Freely’s app also sends out safety alerts and COVID updates, making it a good option for those concerned about safety issues. Because Freely relies on an app, they’re able to pinpoint your location to ensure important local safety updates get to you. I can’t think of another insurance company that offers that kind of service, ensuring your peace of mind no matter where you’re going.

On the flip side, Freely may be frustrating for anyone who doesn’t want to download and use an app. Most of Freely’s services (making a claim, changing or updating your policy) are only available in the app. While this makes it streamlined and convenient in some ways, those who want to be able to access and manage their account on a computer might want to choose a different company.

I think buying travel insurance should be a simple and straightforward process. Finding a policy shouldn’t be totally mind-numbing or time-consuming. And while Freely is still quite new on the market, it has a lot of potential. Its app makes finding the information you need a breeze, and the extras and Daily Boosts add customization I hope more companies embrace. I think it’s a worthwhile company to check out when you’re shopping around for a plan.

Click here to learn more and get a quote today!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

GET YOUR  FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!