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Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage: Stay Safe and Protected

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

97 Published Articles 520 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 4 U.S. States Visited: 23

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

Travel insurance with covid-19 coverage, what covid-19 travel insurance covers, covid-19 travel insurance costs, tips for choosing covid-19 travel insurance, how to make a claim for covid-19 travel insurance, travel insurance companies offering covid-19 coverage, final thoughts.

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‌COVID-19 continues to add a layer of uncertainty to travel, especially international journeys. Travelers may be unsure how to travel protected from COVID-19 and navigate international vaccine, testing, and quarantine requirements.

While most countries have dropped COVID-19 entry requirements, there’s still a threat COVID-19 could interfere with your travel. You may have to cancel or delay your trip if you develop COVID-19 before departure. 

And if you pick up COVID-19 while traveling, your travel may be interrupted by quarantine, and you may need medical treatment. Severe COVID-19 symptoms may necessitate emergency medical evacuation, particularly when visiting a destination with limited medical care.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages travelers to consider travel insurance in case they need medical care abroad. ¹ Other precautions you can take include getting up to date on COVID-19 vaccines and wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor areas, such as on public transportation or in transportation hubs such as airports.

Even if you’re cautious about COVID-19 while traveling, COVID-19 could still interfere with your journey . That’s where travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage comes in.

COVID-19 travel insurance coverage can offer a safety net for traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering financial protection and assistance if COVID-19-related issues impact your trip. These include trip cancellations, interruptions, medical emergencies, or quarantining.

Your travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage can include coverage for trip cancellations if you contract COVID-19 before your departure date or during your trip. Some plans also offer trip interruption coverage if you have to quarantine on your trip.

The medical coverage offered by your COVID-19 travel insurance policy can cover treatment if you need medical attention due to COVID-19 on your trip. That means you don’t have to worry about steep medical expenses for necessary medical care if you become sick with COVID-19 on your travels. And your coverage may offer medical emergency evacuation if your COVID-19 illness becomes critical.

International Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage

Traveling internationally adds another layer of complexity to COVID-19 coverage. Countries may have COVID-19 mitigation measures such as testing upon arrival, quarantine periods, and vaccine requirements. Most countries have dropped these requirements, particularly for fully vaccinated travelers, but travel rules can change at any time — and travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage can help you manage COVID-19 requirements, particularly quarantines.

Some countries require valid travel medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage to qualify for a visa.

And if you contract COVID-19 while traveling, having travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage can be a lifeline with major financial savings, particularly if your destination has limited medical care.

Learn why you need medical insurance to cover medical emergencies and access quality healthcare when traveling abroad.

COVID-19 travel insurance often covers testing, quarantine, emergency medical, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation and interruption — you can also usually add on Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage. Let’s explore the details of these COVID-19 travel insurance coverages:

• Emergency Medical Coverage: Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage usually covers emergency medical treatment if you contract COVID-19 during your trip. 
• Emergency Medical Evacuation: Your travel insurance may provide coverage for emergency medical evacuation to a suitable medical facility if adequate COVID-19 care is unavailable at your destination.
• COVID-19 Testing: COVID-19 travel insurance may cover the cost of testing for COVID-19, whether you’re testing pre-trip or on your travels.
• COVID-19 Quarantine: If you contract COVID-19 before or during your trip, you may need to quarantine. Travel insurance covering COVID-19 quarantine can reimburse you for additional accommodation and other necessary costs.
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage may cover trip cancellation or interruption due to COVID-19-related reasons such as contracting the virus before departure or during the trip, travel advisories, or government-imposed restrictions.
• Cancel for Any Reason: With supplemental CFAR coverage, you can cancel your trip for any reason and receive a partial refund of your prepaid nonrefundable trip expenses. For example, you could cancel your trip if you have concerns about contracting COVID-19 at your destination during an outbreak.

Expect to pay between 1% to 10% of your trip cost for single-trip travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage. For example, if your total trip cost is $3,000, you’ll pay about $30 to $300 for COVID-19 travel insurance. 

We got a quote via Squaremouth for a 25-year-old traveler visiting Ireland with a total trip cost of $2,500. Quotes offering full COVID-19 coverage, including trip cancellation, interruption, medical, and medical evacuation, ranged from $44 to $169.40 .

The lowest-priced quote offers $50,000 in secondary medical insurance and a $250,000 medical evacuation benefit. It has up to $2,500 in trip cancellation coverage and $3,750 for trip interruptions. COVID-19 is covered for both cancellation and medical.

The highest-end COVID-19 travel insurance quote offers COVID-19 trip cancellation and medical coverage with up to $250,000 in secondary medical expense benefits and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The policy offers up to $2,500 for trip cancellation benefits and $3,125 for trip interruption.

Your actual cost of COVID-19 travel insurance depends on several factors, including your age, trip duration, destination, coverage limits, and the level of COVID-19 coverage .

Some credit card travel insurance covers COVID-19 medical expenses and cancellations or interruptions, but it depends on the card. Check your card’s guide to benefits to confirm whether your included travel insurance has you covered for COVID-19 or not.

An annual or multi-trip plan with COVID-19 coverage could be cost-effective if you plan to take several trips throughout the year. You’ll pay more for annual coverage — usually $300 to $1,000 or more — but that may be less than purchasing separate coverage for each trip you take.

As you consider which COVID-19 travel insurance to purchase, consider these factors to make sure you have comprehensive coverage for your needs:

• COVID-19 Coverage Details: Review your policy to understand what’s covered under COVID-19 and what’s not. While most COVID-19 travel insurance policies cover trip cancellation and interruption, not all cover medical expenses or emergency evacuations.
• Coverage Limits: Consider how much coverage the policy offers, especially for medical expenses and emergency evacuations, to ensure you’ll have enough coverage in an emergency.
• Preexisting Conditions: If you have any preexisting medical conditions, confirm these conditions are covered by your COVID-19 travel insurance.
• Policy Exclusions: Read the policy to understand exclusions and limitations, particularly those related to COVID-19.
• Customer Support: Confirm the insurance company offers reliable customer support and assistance services, particularly a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• Provider Reputation: Research the financial stability and reputation of the insurance provider, including customer reviews and how well they handle claims — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lost in COVID-19 travel insurance options? See our guide to buying the best travel insurance .

If you need to make a claim for your COVID-19 travel insurance, you’ll follow the insurer’s claim process. That generally includes contacting the insurer, submitting documentation, submitting your claim, and following up throughout the claims process. 

Learn more about the steps for making a COVID-19 travel insurance claim:

• Review Your Policy: Before you travel, review your COVID-19 travel insurance coverage to understand what’s covered, particularly benefits relevant to the pandemic.
• Contact Emergency Assistance: If you need medical treatment for COVID-19 during your trip, contact your insurance company’s 24/7 emergency helpline to get connected with medical treatment and guidance on how to proceed. 
• Gather Documentation: Before you make a claim, prepare all the documentation you’ll need to support it, including medical records, medical expense receipts, and cancellation or change fees.
• Submit Your Claim: Following the insurer’s claim submission process, contact the insurer to submit your claim. You may need to fill out claim forms and submit necessary documentation via email, an online portal, or mail.
• Stay Updated: After you submit your claim, wait for a response and follow up as necessary with additional documentation or information. 
• Escalate if Necessary: Know your rights as a policyholder and what the insurance company is obligated to do for you. If you feel your claim is wrongfully denied, you can escalate your claim with the insurance company or get help from regulatory authorities, such as your state’s department of insurance.

These are some of the best COVID-19 travel insurance options:

• Allianz Global Assistance: A OneTrip Prime plan from Allianz Global Assistance offers epidemic coverage — including trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical coverage for COVID-19 and future epidemics or pandemics.
• AXA Assistance USA: You can cover COVID-19 cancellations and medical expenses with an AXA Assistance USA Gold plan. There’s a $500,000 medical evacuation benefit.
• battleface: battleface’s Discovery Plan covers COVID-19 cancellation but not COVID-19 medical expenses. You’ll get a $2,500 cancellation coverage benefit.
• Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection: On the ExactCare Value plan, you’ll get a $25,000 medical benefit and a $500,000 medical evacuation benefit. Cancellations are covered up to $2,400, and interruptions up to $3,750.
• Generali Global Assistance: Generali Global Assistance’s Standard plan covers both COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses, with cancellation expenses of up to $2,500 and medical of up to $50,000 with a $250,000 medical evacuation benefit.
• GoReady: GoReady’s Pandemic Plus plan covers COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses with a medical limit of $50,000 and emergency evacuation of up to $250,000.
• HTH Worldwide: You can get up to $2,500 in trip cancellation or $3,125 in interruption benefits from the Trip Protector Economy plan, with $75,000 in medical coverage (including COVID-19) and a $500,000 medical evacuation benefit.
• IMG: IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Essential plan does not cover COVID-19 medical or medical evacuation expenses, but you can get $2,500 trip cancellation and $3,125 interruption benefits. IMG’s higher-tier plans cover medical expenses and medical evacuation, including COVID-19.
• John Hancock Insurance Agency: Bronze coverage with John Hancock Insurance Agency gets you up to $2,500 in trip cancellation and $3,125 in interruption benefits. Medical expenses — including COVID-19 — are covered up to $50,000 and medical evacuation for up to $250,000.
• Nationwide : The Nationwide Essential plan offers medical expense coverage up to $75,000 and medical evacuation up to $250,000, including COVID-19 coverage. 
• Seven Corners: A Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic plan covers COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses with up to $100,000 in medical expense benefits.
• TinLeg: On a TinLeg Economy plan, you can cover COVID-19 medical expenses up to $20,000 and medical evacuation up to $100,000. Trip cancellation or interruption expenses are covered up to $2,500.
• Trawick Explorer: Using a Trawick International Safe Travels Single Trip plan, you’re covered for COVID-19 medical expenses of up to $75,000 and medical evacuation of up to $350,000. This plan offers primary coverage, so you don’t have to make a claim with other applicable insurance first.
• USI Affinity: A USI Affinity Ruby plan offers primary coverage for up to $250,000 in medical expenses, including COVID-19. Medical evacuation coverage is up to $500,000, along with $2,500 in trip cancellation and $3,750 in trip interruption coverage.
• WorldTrips: You’re covered for up to $1 million in medical evacuation, including COVID-19, with a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred plan. Medical expenses are covered up to $100,000; you’ll have $2,500 in trip cancellation and $3,750 in interruption benefits.

Traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t as risky as it used to be, but taking precautions is still wise. Even if you do your best to avoid COVID-19, it could still impact your travel. Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage can ensure you’re covered if you need to interrupt or cancel your trip due to the coronavirus. And it’s there to help if you need to quarantine or get medical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does travel insurance cover covid-19.

COVID-19 travel insurance coverage depends on the insurer and plan. Some travel insurance policies offer coverage for COVID-19-related medical expenses, trip cancellations, or interruptions. Other travel insurance plans may exclude COVID-19.

What travel insurance covers pandemics?

COVID-19 travel insurance covers the COVID-19 pandemic. Some travel insurance plans offer coverage for future pandemics, but specific coverage and limitations vary widely among insurance providers and plans. It’s a good idea to check your plan’s terms and conditions for specific coverage inclusions and exclusions.

Can you cancel travel insurance and get a refund?

In some cases, you can cancel travel insurance and get a refund, but you’ll need to meet the policy’s terms and conditions for doing so. For example, most insurance companies offer a full refund if you cancel the policy within a certain period after purchase, and your refund amount goes down from there.

What does secondary coverage mean for travel insurance?

When you have secondary coverage on travel insurance, your insurance policy will only provide benefits after your primary insurance policies, such as health insurance or homeowners insurance, have been exhausted.

Is it worth having primary and secondary insurance?

Having both primary and secondary travel insurance can be helpful if you’re concerned your primary insurance has insufficient coverage. Secondary insurance can provide additional coverage and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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How do the latest Level 4 travel advisories affect your insurance coverage?

Aug 16, 2021 • 5 min read

Travel advisories generally don't impact travel insurance plans ©Getty Images

Under US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and State Department guidelines, a number of destinations have been designated Level 4, and people are asked to "avoid travel" to these places. But if you have a trip already booked, or are currently in a Level 4 country, how does the advisory impact your travel insurance plan? Would you be covered if you went against government guidelines and traveled to a place you were advised to avoid? Let's find out.

What are the US travel advisories?

The ongoing risks associated with COVID-19, particularly as new variants emerge, present challenges and uncertainties for travel. To make the experience a little less confusing, the State Department has aligned its travel advisories with the CDC's Travel Health Notices to warn travelers about dangers and COVID-19 threats overseas.

With the recent surge in variants, the department and the CDC designated their Level 4 advisory, the highest alert, to a number of popular destinations, including France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Israel, Panama, and more. Americans are still permitted to travel to these places but do so at their own risk; a decision that could ultimately have an impact on the validity of their travel insurance.

Read more: France and Iceland among new destinations added to US State Department's 'do not travel' list

How do travel advisories impact insurance coverage?

In general, the ways in which advisories impact travel insurance varies by carrier and plan. Each policy differs widely, and when you purchase it matters. "Some plans in the market may not cover you if you knowingly travel to a country that is a Level 4," Jeremy Murchland, president of Seven Corners , tells Lonely Planet. "Others may provide coverage if the travel warning occurred after your arrival in the affected area."

If you're knowingly going against government guidelines and traveling to a high-risk place, you'll need to do your homework. In order to understand if your coverage is affected by a travel advisory, Murchland advises travelers to review document plans and ask providers specific questions about how your coverage works.

Can you claim any expenses back if you cancel your trip?

According to insurance experts, a travel advisory on its own is not typically a covered reason for trip cancellation coverage in standard travel insurance plans. If you cancel your trip because of a travel advisory, it's likely you won't be able to claim any pre-paid expenses back.

"Most travel insurance policies do not provide cancellation coverage for Department of State travel advisories," says Megan Moncrief, chief marketing officer at insurance comparison site Squaremouth . "Therefore, any new advisory issued for a traveler's current or future destination would not impact coverage, regardless of when the advisory was issued, or when the traveler was at the destination in question."

That said, coverage may be impacted if some policies include language within their cancellation or interruption benefits specifically for travel advisories. "In order to be eligible for these benefits in the event of a travel advisory, the policy must have been purchased prior to the date the advisory was issued," says Moncreif. "This coverage would only be impacted if the policy was purchased after the advisory was issued. Even in this case, only the trip cancellation and interruption benefits would be 'voided'."

So if a traveler is already abroad when the advisory is issued, the policy would remain intact and most benefits, to include emergency medical, and travel delay, would still be available.

Moncreif explains the majority of impacts to travel throughout the pandemic were due to travel bans, border closures and airline cancellations—not travel advisories—and some policies can protect you against these sudden changes in your vacation plan. "In most cases, the best chance of having coverage in these circumstances is a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) policy," says Moncreif.

The policy is only available up to 21 days after the initial trip booking and is considered an upgrade, which means it will cost about 40% more than a standard policy but according to Moncreif "for travelers who want the best chance of coverage for any COVID-related travel impacts, it is the benefit we recommend."

What if I get ill in a Level 4 country?

Again, it depends on the policy you purchased but Meghan Walch, InsureMyTrip product manager, says that most will still include medical coverage even if you travel to a Level 4 country. But it's important to check your coverage details first.

"Most travel insurance plans today will treat COVID-19 like any other unexpected medical condition. So if a traveler holding a travel insurance policy unexpectedly contracts COVID prior to their departure or during their trip, the coverages should be available, irrespective of the State Department advisories," she explains.

What benefits should people look for when traveling during the pandemic?

Apart from the advisories, there are many things to consider when planning a trip overseas during the pandemic. As we've seen this past year-and-a-half, the situation can change suddenly and rules around travel are constantly in flux. If you want your insurance to offer you extra peace of mind, it's best to go for a plan with benefits to cover you in most situations.

Murchland says: "having trip cancellation and delay benefits will help minimize losses when plans are cancelled or changed at the last minute. It is especially important that you prepare for the possibility of getting ill or injured by having travel medical insurance, particularly if you are leaving your home country as your medical insurance provider may not cover you in other countries."

Bottom line: generally you can still visit a country that the US Department of State advises against travel without invalidating your insurance—you just need to do your research and find a provider who will cover it. Don't just look at whether a policy will include COVID-19 claims. Ask your provider specific questions and shop around for the best travel insurance quotes. And always stay up-to-date on your destination's latest public health guidelines.

You might also like:

Do I need to buy travel insurance? American tourists can now travel to Canada - here's what to expect San Francisco is the latest US city to require proof of vaccination for indoor venues

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Get Help with a Medical Emergency Abroad

If you or a U.S. citizen loved one become seriously ill or injured abroad, we can:

• Help locate appropriate medical services.
• Inform your family or friends, with your permission.
• Help  transfer funds  to U.S. citizens overseas.

The U.S. government does not pay overseas medical bills. The patient must pay all hospital and other expenses.

You can find lists of doctors and hospitals in the country you are visiting. Check the  website of the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting. 

Check Your Health Insurance – Are You Covered Abroad?

Understand what medical services your health insurance will cover overseas before traveling. Carry your insurance card and a claim form if your policy covers you outside the United States. 

Medicare does not cover medical care when you travel the United States. Visit  Medicare.gov  for more information.

Some health insurance companies pay for “customary and reasonable” hospital costs abroad. Very few pay for your medical evacuation back to the United States. The cost may exceed $250,000, depending on your location and medical condition. Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. For more information, visit our webpage on Insurance Coverage Overseas . 

Traveling with Prescription Medications

• Check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting or passing through. Check to make sure your medications are allowed, particularly prescriptions for medical marijuana. You may need an import license or permit to travel with certain medications.
• Bring plenty of medicine for your trip. If possible, bring a few extra days’ worth in case of delays. You might not be able to get the same medication abroad.
• Carry a letter from the doctor. It should describe your medical condition. It should also list any prescription drugs and their generic names.
• Keep medications in their original, labeled containers.
• Entering a country with a prescription medication, even if legally obtained in the United States, could be illegal and result in your detention or arrest overseas.

Medical Tourism Abroad

Between 150,000 and 320,000 U.S. citizens travel abroad for medical care each year. Medical tourism includes cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and other surgical procedures. 

If you are a U.S. citizen considering travel abroad for medical care, you should:

• Verify the doctor’s training, qualifications, and reputation. 
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Medical Tourism website for more information on medical tourism. 
• Check country information  for more information.

Inform Yourself About Vaccinations

Some Countries Require Vaccinations

Before you travel, check country information . You may need to carry an International Certificate of Vaccination, also called a Yellow Card. You may also need to show proof of other inoculations or medical tests. Check also current requirements directly with the foreign embassies of the countries you are visiting.

Recommended Vaccinations and Malaria Prevention

Check the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)  and World Health Organization (WHO)  websites for recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention for your destination. Review the CDC’s webpage on Choosing a Drug to Prevent Malaria .

Travel Smartly with Prescription Medications

• Bring an ample supply of medication to cover you for your trip, and if possible, a few extra days in case there are delays.
• Carry a letter from the attending physician that describes your medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic name of prescribed drugs.
• Check with the foreign embassy of the country you are visiting or transiting to make sure your medications are permitted in that country. Some countries require an import license or permit to travel with certain medications.

Being Prepared for a Pandemic

Review the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information about pandemics. In a pandemic, virus control measures could affect your travel:

• Travel restrictions may prevent U.S. citizens from traveling internationally.
• Foreign governments may close borders suddenly or with little advance warning.
• Commercial air, land, and sea carriers could suspend some or all transportation services.
• Some countries may quarantine people who appear sick or test positive with the virus.

These developments could delay your travel or your return to the United States.

Other Health Considerations Abroad

• Review the CDC’s Traveler Advice.
• Review Traveling With Disabilities .
• Review Considerations for Older Travelers .

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Vaccines for Travelers

Vaccines protect travelers from serious diseases. Depending on where you travel, you may come into contact with diseases that are rare in the United States, like yellow fever. Some vaccines may also be required for you to travel to certain places.

Getting vaccinated will help keep you safe and healthy while you’re traveling. It will also help make sure that you don’t bring any serious diseases home to your family, friends, and community.

On this page, you'll find answers to common questions about vaccines for travelers.

Which vaccines do I need before traveling?

The vaccines you need to get before traveling will depend on few things, including:

• Where you plan to travel . Some countries require proof of vaccination for certain diseases, like yellow fever or polio. And traveling in developing countries and rural areas may bring you into contact with more diseases, which means you might need more vaccines before you visit.
• Your health . If you’re pregnant or have an ongoing illness or weakened immune system, you may need additional vaccines.
• The vaccinations you’ve already had . It’s important to be up to date on your routine vaccinations. While diseases like measles are rare in the United States, they are more common in other countries. Learn more about routine vaccines for specific age groups .

How far in advance should I get vaccinated before traveling?

It’s important to get vaccinated at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. This will give the vaccines time to start working, so you’re protected while you’re traveling. It will also usually make sure there’s enough time for you to get vaccines that require more than 1 dose.

Where can I go to get travel vaccines?

Start by finding a:

• Travel clinic
• Health department
• Yellow fever vaccination clinic

Learn more about where you can get vaccines .

What resources can I use to prepare for my trip?

Here are some resources that may come in handy as you’re planning your trip:

• Visit CDC’s travel website to find out which vaccines you may need based on where you plan to travel, what you’ll be doing, and any health conditions you have.
• Download CDC's TravWell app to get recommended vaccines, a checklist to help prepare for travel, and a personalized packing list. You can also use it to store travel documents and keep a record of your medicines and vaccinations.
• Read the current travel notices to learn about any new disease outbreaks in or vaccine recommendations for the areas where you plan to travel.
• Visit the State Department’s website to learn about vaccinations, insurance, and medical emergencies while traveling.

Traveling with a child? Make sure they get the measles vaccine.

Measles is still common in some countries. Getting your child vaccinated will protect them from getting measles — and from bringing it back to the United States where it can spread to others. Learn more about the measles vaccine.

Find out which vaccines you need

CDC’s Adult Vaccine Quiz helps you create a list of vaccines you may need based on your age, health conditions, and more.

Take the quiz now !

Get Immunized

Getting immunized is easy. Vaccines and preventive antibodies are available at the doctor’s office or pharmacies — and are usually covered by insurance.

Find out how to get protected .

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Get Vaccinated Before You Travel

It’s important to plan ahead to get the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit.

Protect your child and family when traveling in the United States or abroad by:

• Getting the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit during your trip
• Making sure you and your family are up-to-date on all routine U.S. vaccines
• Staying informed about travel notices and alerts and how they can affect your family’s travel plans

Avoid getting sick or coming back home and spreading the disease to others.

Vaccinate at least a month before you travel

See your doctor when you start to plan your trip abroad. It’s important to do this well in advance.

• Your body needs time to build up immunity.
• You may need several weeks to get all the doses of the vaccine.
• Your primary doctor may not stock travel vaccines. Visit a travel medical clinic .
• You’ll need time to prepare for your pre-travel appointment .
• If the country you visit requires a yellow fever vaccine , only a limited number of clinics have the vaccine and will probably be some distance from where you live. You must get it at least 10 days before travel.

Find out which vaccines are recommended or required for the countries you plan to visit .

TIP : Save time by getting routine vaccines during the same doctor visit. Use the Vaccine Self-Assessment Tool and discuss the results with your doctor. It tells you which U.S. recommended vaccines you (19 years and older) or your child (birth – 18 years) might need.

Last-minute travelers

When traveling to another country be aware your doctor may not carry a travel vaccine and you may have to visit a medical clinic.

Many travel vaccines require multiple shots or take time to become fully effective. But some multiple-dose vaccines (like hepatitis A) can still give you partial protection after just one dose. Some can also be given on an “accelerated schedule,” meaning doses are given in a shorter period of time.

• Discover and learn about specific diseases that can affect you while traveling
• What to do if you get sick after traveling
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Key benefits of travel medical insurance

• Travel medical insurance coverage
• Who needs medical travel insurance?

Choosing the right travel medical insurance

How to use travel medical insurance, is travel medical insurance right for your next trip, travel medical insurance: essential coverage for health and safety abroad.

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• Travel medical insurance covers unexpected emergency medical expenses while traveling.
• Travelers off to foreign countries or remote areas should strongly consider travel medical insurance.
• If you have to use your travel medical insurance, keep all documents related to your treatment.

Of all the delights associated with travel to far-flung locales, getting sick or injured while away from home is low on the savvy traveler's list. Beyond gut-wrenching anxiety, seeking medical treatment in a foreign country can be exceedingly inconvenient and expensive.

The peace of mind that comes with travel insurance for the many things that could ail you while abroad is priceless. As options for travel-related insurance abound, it's essential to research, read the fine print, and act according to the specifics of your itinerary, pocketbook, and other needs.

Travel insurance reimburses you for any unexpected medical expenses incurred while traveling. On domestic trips, travel medical insurance usually take a backseat to your health insurance. However, when traveling to a foreign country, where your primary health insurance can't cover you, travel medical insurance takes the wheel. This can be especially helpful in countries with high medical care costs, such as Scandinavian countries.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance

Another benefit that often comes with travel medical insurance, emergency medical evacuation insurance covers you for any costs to transport you to an adequately equipped medical center. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is often paired with repatriation insurance, which covers costs associated with returning your remains to your home country if the worst happens. 

These benefits are for worst-case scenarios, but they might be more necessary depending on the type of trips you take. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is helpful if you're planning on traveling to a remote location or if you're traveling on a cruise as sea to land evacuations can be costly. Some of the best travel insurance companies also offer non-medical evacuations as part of an adventure sports insurance package.

It's also worth mentioning that emergency medical evacuation insurance is required for international students studying in the US on a J Visa. 

Types of coverage offered by travel medical insurance

The exact terms of your coverage will vary depending on your insurer, but you can expect most travel medical insurance policies to offer the following coverages.

• Hospital room and board
• Inpatient/outpatient hospital services
• Prescription Drugs
• COVID-19 treatment
• Emergency room services
• Urgent care visits
• Local ambulance
• Acute onset of pre-existing conditions
• Dental coverage (accident/sudden relief of pain)
• Medical care due to terrorist attack
• Emergency medical evacuation 
• Repatriation of mortal remains
• Accidental death and dismemberment

Travel medical insurance and pre-existing conditions

Many travel insurance providers will cover pre-existing conditions as long as certain conditions are met. For one, travelers need to purchase their travel insurance within a certain time frame from when they placed a deposit on their trip, usually two to three weeks. 

Additionally, travel insurance companies usually only cover stable medical conditions, which are conditions that don't need additional medical treatment, diagnosis, or medications.

Who needs travel medical insurance?

Even the best-laid travel plans can go awry. As such, it pays to consider your potential healthcare needs before taking off, even if you are generally healthy. Even if well-managed, preexisting conditions like diabetes or asthma can make a medical backup plan even more vital.

Having what you need to refill prescriptions or get other care if you get stuck somewhere other than home could be essential to your health and well-being. That's without counting all the accidents and illnesses that can hit us when away from home.

Individuals traveling for extended periods (more than six months) or engaging in high-risk activities (think scuba diving or parasailing) should also consider a solid medical travel plan. Both scenarios increase the likelihood that medical attention, whether routine or emergency, could be needed.

In the case of travel via the friendly seas, it's also worth considering cruise trip travel insurance . Routine care will be available onboard. But anything beyond that will require transportation to the nearest land mass (and could quickly become extremely expensive, especially if you're in another country).

Like other types of insurance, medical travel insurance rates are calculated based on various factors. Failing to disclose a preexisting health condition could result in a lapse of coverage right when you need it, as insurers can cancel your policy if you withhold material information. So honesty is always the best policy.

Even the best-laid travel plans can go awry. As such, it pays to consider your potential healthcare needs before taking off, even if you are generally healthy. Making the right choice when shopping for travel medical insurance can mean the difference between a minor hiccup in your travels and a financial nightmare. 

When a travel insurance company comes up with a quote for your policy, they take a few factors into consideration, such as your age, your destination, and the duration of your trip. You should do the same when assessing a travel insurance company. 

For example, older travelers who are more susceptible to injury may benefit from travel medical insurance (though your premiums will be higher). If you're traveling for extended periods throughout one calendar year, you should look into an annual travel medical insurance plan . If you're engaging in high-risk activities (think scuba diving or parasailing), you should seek a plan that includes coverage for injuries sustained in adventure sports.

In the case of travel via the friendly seas, it's also worth considering cruise trip medical travel insurance. Routine care will be available onboard. But anything beyond that will require transportation to the nearest land mass (and could quickly become extremely expensive, especially if you're in another country).

Travel medical insurance isn't just for peace of mind. If you travel often enough, there's a good chance you'll eventually experience an incident where medical treatment is necessary.

Before you submit your claim, you should take some time to understand your policy. Your travel medical insurance is either primary (you can submit claims directly to your travel medical insurance provider) or secondary (you must first submit claims to your primary insurance provider). In the case of secondary travel medical insurance, a refusal notice from your primary insurance provider, even if it does not cover medical claims outside the US, is often required as evidence of protocol.

On that note, you should be sure to document every step of your medical treatment. You should keep any receipts for filled prescriptions, hospital bills, and anything else documenting your medical emergency.

As many people have found out the hard way, reading the fine print is vital. Most travel insurance policies will reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable expenses if you fall ill with a severe condition, including illnesses like COVID-19. 

Still on the fence about whether or not  travel insurance is worth it ? It's worth noting that many travel insurance plans also include medical protections, so you can also protect against trip cancellations and other unexpected developments while obtaining travel medical insurance.

While short, domestic trips may not warrant travel medical insurance, it may be a good idea to insure longer, international trips. You should also consider travel medical insurance for trips to remote areas, where a medical evacuation may be expensive, and more physically tasking trips.

While shopping for travel medical insurance may not be fun, a little advance leg work can let you relax on your trip and give you peace of mind. After all, that is the point of a vacation. 

Medical travel insurance frequently asked questions

Trip insurance covers any unexpected financial losses while traveling, such as the cost of replacing lost luggage, trip interruptions, and unexpected medical expenses. Travel medical insurance just covers those medical expenses without the trip interruption or cancellation insurance.

Travel insurance companies usually offer adventure sports as add-on coverage or a separate plan entirely. You'll likely pay more for a policy with adventure sports coverage. 

Many travel medical insurance policies now include coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses and treat it like any other illness. However, you should double-check your policy to ensure that is the case.

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• Section 3 - Travelers with Disabilities
• Section 3 - Highly Allergic Travelers

Travelers with Chronic Illnesses

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Noreen Hynes

Although traveling abroad can be relaxing and rewarding, the physical demands of travel can be stressful, particularly for travelers with underlying chronic illnesses. With adequate preparation, however, these travelers can have safe and enjoyable trips. For more detailed information on assisting immunocompromised travelers , travelers with disabilities , highly allergic travelers , and travelers with substance use disorders prepare for international travel, see the respective chapters in this section.

Patients should see their established health care providers well in advance of travel to ensure that all chronic conditions are controlled, and management is optimized. Clinicians should encourage patients to seek pretravel consultation prior to paying for nonrefundable trips, and at least 4–6 weeks before departure to ensure adequate time to respond to immunizations, try new medications before travel, or redefine the itinerary based upon pretravel consultation recommendations.

General Approach

Advising travelers.

Adequate preparation for patients with chronic illnesses for international travel requires the active participation of both the traveler and the travel health provider. Box 3-03 includes a checklist of pretravel activities for travelers with chronic illnesses.

Box 3-03 A checklist for travelers with chronic illnesses preparing for international travel

☐ Carry copies of all prescriptions.

☐ Check with the foreign embassy or consulate for your destination country in the United States to clarify whether any medication restrictions exist. Some countries do not allow visitors to bring certain medications into the country, especially narcotics and psychotropic medications.

☐ Favor travel to destinations that have access to quality care for your condition (see Sec. 6, Ch. 2, Obtaining Health Care Abroad )

☐ Obtain an established provider letter. The letter should be on office letterhead stationery and outline existing medical conditions, medications prescribed (including generic names), and any equipment required to manage the condition. By law, some states do not permit a travel health specialist to furnish such a letter if the specialist is not also the primary care provider or established provider of record.

☐ Pack a travel health kit (see Sec. 2, Ch. 10, Travel Health Kits ). Take health kits on board as carry-on luggage, and bring all necessary medications and medical supplies (e.g., pouching for ostomies) in their original containers.

☐ Select a medical assistance company that allows you to store your medical history so it can be accessed worldwide.

☐ Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , a free service of the US Department of State to US citizens and permanent residents, to receive destination-specific travel and security updates. This service also allows the Department of State to contact international travelers during emergencies.

☐ Stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, and walk and stretch at regular intervals during long-distance travel (see Sec. 8, Ch. 3, Deep Vein Thrombosis & Pulmonary Embolism ).

☐ Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry medical information on your person. Various brands of jewelry or tags, even electronic ones, are available.

Health Care Provider Roles & Responsibilities

Health care providers play a critical role in helping patients with chronic underlying conditions travel safely. Ask patients about previous health-related issues encountered during travel (e.g., complications during air travel). In addition to sharing the advice found in  Box 3-03 , ensure the traveler has sufficient medication (and proper storage conditions) for the entire trip, plus extra in case of unexpected delays. Because medications should be taken based on elapsed time and not time of day, offering travelers guidance on scheduling when to take medications during and after crossing time zones might be needed. Educate travelers on possible drug interactions (see Sec. 2, Ch. 4, Interactions Between Travel Vaccines & Drugs ). Some medications used to treat chronic medical illnesses (e.g., warfarin) can interact with prescribed self-treatment for travelers’ diarrhea or malaria chemoprophylaxis. Discuss all medications patients use, including medications taken daily, those taken on an as-needed basis, and dietary supplements or herbal products. In addition, discuss supplemental insurance options for travelers, including policies that cover trip cancellation in the event of illness, supplemental medical insurance, and medical evacuation insurance. Supplemental medical insurance can reimburse travelers for money paid for health care abroad; most medical insurance policies do not cover the cost of health care received in other countries. Medical evacuation insurance covers moving the person from the place of illness or injury to a place where they can receive definitive care. Travelers might need assistance to identify supplemental insurance plans that will cover costs for preexisting conditions (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Help patients devise a Personal Travel Health Plan. This plan should give instructions for managing minor problems or exacerbations of underlying illnesses and should include information about medical facilities available in the destination country (see Sec. 6, Ch. 2, Obtaining Health Care Abroad ).

Specific Chronic Medical Conditions

Chronic illness or acute illness affecting underlying chronic disease might affect the recommendations clinicians make to a traveler after completing the risk assessment conducted as part of the pretravel consultation (see Sec. 2, Ch. 1, The Pretravel Consultation ). Some online resources for travelers who have ≥1 chronic medical conditions can be found in Table 3-05 (in Sec. 3, Ch. 2, Travelers with Disabilities ) and Table 3-07 .

Chronic conditions include those affecting the cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, hematological, hepatic, neurologic, and respiratory systems. Table 3-08 addresses issues and recommendations related to specific chronic medical illnesses and should be used in conjunction with the other recommendations given throughout this book.

Travelers also might want to investigate international health care accreditation agencies to identify health care facilities at the travel destination that have received recognition or accreditation for high care standards and good patient safety records. If travelers or their health care providers have concerns about fitness for air travel or the need to obtain a medical certificate before travel, the medical unit affiliated with the specific airline is a valuable source for information.

Travelers who require service animals, including emotional support animals, should check with the airline and the destination country to ensure both the air carrier and the country will allow the animal; documentation and permits might also be required (see Sec. 7, Ch. 6, Traveling with Pets & Service Animals ). Travelers planning to use supplemental oxygen on the aircraft or needing other equipment (e.g., a wheelchair) must inform the airline far in advance of planned travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Cares Helpline (toll-free at 855-787-2227) or TSA Cares online assistance also can provide information on how to prepare for the airport security screening process for a particular disability or medical condition.

Table 3-07 Online resources for travelers with chronic illnesses: disease & condition-specific

DISEASE / CONDITION

ORGANIZATION / SOURCE

ANTICOAGULATION

Anticoagulation Forum

Centers of Excellence Resource Center

American Cancer Society

Eat Right and Stay Active while Traveling

CELIAC DISEASE

National Celiac Association

Eating GF when traveling abroad

CHRONIC PAIN

International Pain Foundation

Top Tips for Traveling Abroad with Chronic Pain

American Diabetes Association

Air Travel and Diabetes

Epilepsy Foundation

Travel and Holidays

Epilepsy Society (UK)

Travel and holidays for people with epilepsy

HEART CONDITIONS

American Heart Association

Healthy Travel

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

Traveling with IBD

KIDNEY DISEASE

American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP)

International Travel while on Dialysis

National Kidney Foundation

Foreign Travel Tips for Dialysis Patients

Global Dialysis (UK)

Travel Advice

LUNGS & CHEST

American Lung Association

Traveling with Oxygen

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

Tips for Traveling Abroad with MS

SLEEP APNEA

American Sleep Association

Travel: CPAP Machines

American Sleep Apnea Association

US Travel Tips for CPAP Users

Table 3-08 Special considerations for travelers with chronic illnesses

Abbreviations: AAKP, American Association of Kidney Patients; AICD, automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator; CABG, coronary artery bypass graft; CHF, congestive heart failure; CKD, chronic kidney disease; CNS, central nervous system; COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; COVID-19, coronavirus disease; CrCl, creatinine clearance; CVA, cerebrovascular accident; DVT, deep vein thrombosis; ECG, electrocardiogram; FSBG, fingerstick blood glucose; GI, gastrointestinal; Hgb, hemoglobin; HIV, human immunodeficiency virus; IGRA, interferon-γ release assay; INR, international normalized ratio; PNS, peripheral nervous system; PPIs, proton-pump inhibitors; PTX, pneumothorax; TD, travelers’ diarrhea; TIA, transient ischemic attack; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; TST, tuberculin skin test; YF, yellow fever.

a There is a spectrum of airline travel–related risk that depends on the cardiovascular disorder, the defined risk group within the disorder, and the time since the acute event (if applicable). Evidence basis for recommendations is suboptimal, however.

b See Sec. 5, Part 3, Ch. 16, Malaria , for additional details.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Deborah Nicolls Barbeau, Gail A. Rosselot, Sue Ann McDevitt

Bibliography

Aisporna C, Erickson-Hurt C. End-of-life travel: A bucket list desire for patients with life limiting illnesses. J Hospice Pall Nursing. 2019;21(5):397–403.

Furuto Y, Kawamura M, Namikawa A, Takahashi H, Shibuya Y. Health risk of travel for chronic kidney disease patients. J Res Med Sci. 2020;25:22.

Heng S, Hughes B, Hibbert M, Khasraw M, Lwin Z. Traveling with cancer: A guide for oncologists in the modern world. J Glob Oncol. 2019;5:1–10.

International Air Transport Association. Medical manual, 12th edition; July 2020. Available from: www.iata.org/en/publications/medical-manual .

Josephs LK, Coker RK, Thomas M; British Thoracic Society Air Travel Working Group. Managing patients with stable respiratory disease planning air travel: a primary care summary of the British Thoracic Society recommendations. Prim Care Respir J. 2013;22(2):234–8.

McCarthy AE, Burchard GD. The travelers with pre-existing disease. In: Keystone JS, Kozarsky PE, Connor BA, Nothdurft HD, Mendelson M, Leder K, editors. Travel medicine, 4th edition. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier; 2018. pp. 263–6.

Pinsker JE, Becker E, Mahnke CB, Ching M, Larson NS, Roy D. Extensive clinical experience: a simple guide to basal insulin adjustments for long-distance travel. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2013;12(1):59.

Ringwald J, Strobel J, Eckstein R. Travel and oral anticoagulation. J Travel Med. 2009;16(4):276–83.

Smith D, Toff W, Joy M, Dowdall N, Johnston R, Clark L, et al. Fitness to fly for passengers with cardiovascular disease. Heart. 2010;96(Suppl_2):ii1–16.

US Department of Justice. Exemption from import or export requirements for personal medical use. Title 21 CFR §1301.26. 2004 Sep 14. Available from: www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/fed_regs/rules/2004/fr0914.htm .

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Do you need travel insurance this summer?

It can be complicated to navigate all the options. christopher elliott is here to help.

By Christopher Elliott

6:00 PM on Jun 26, 2024 CDT

If you’re planning to travel somewhere this summer, you’re probably thinking of buying travel insurance.

Kingsley Hopkins is. He’s headed to Portugal and Iceland with his girlfriend, and he wants to make sure he’s covered for things like medical emergencies or trip disruptions, “or if a volcano erupts,” he says.

But getting the right travel insurance can be complicated. There’s no one-size-fits-all policy, and Hopkins, an assistant editor at a book publishing company in New York, has been spending a lot of time thinking about how to protect his summer vacation.

Chances are, so have you.

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Why finding the right travel insurance is so hard

Most surveys suggest this will be a record summer for travel. How much of a record? Demand is so high that some airlines are afraid they will run out of planes. Now that’s busy.

At the same time, danger and uncertainty are lurking everywhere — wars in Europe and in the Middle East, the usual slate of natural disasters like hurricanes and maybe a volcano or two. It’s no wonder people are giving some serious thought to insurance.

Older travelers are particularly worried. And they should be, says P.K. Rao, CEO of INF Visitor Care . Claims by travelers over age 50 spike during the summer months.

“According to our claim data, medical emergencies tend to uptick during the summer, especially for those going on trips that involve outdoor activities,” he says.

But there are so many choices out there, including credit card coverage, medical evacuation membership programs and standalone travel insurance. What should you get?

You need peace of mind

But don’t just reflexively start shopping for a travel insurance policy this summer. Instead, look for peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you’ll be taken care of.

“Knowing you’re protected from unforeseen travel mishaps — like delays, lost baggage and even medical emergencies — can make the trip that much more enjoyable,” says Daniel Durazo, a spokesman for Allianz Partners USA .

As it turns out, there are several ways to get the peace of mind you need. And there are times when you can safely skip travel insurance.

This is when you don’t need insurance

Here’s when you can skip travel insurance, according to experts:

• If you already have coverage. “You may already have travel coverage through your benefits at work, your credit card or through group benefits with an organization,” says Jiten Puri, CEO of PolicyAdvisor.com . If you do, there’s no need to buy more coverage. You’re all set.
• If you’re not traveling far. If you’re taking a driving vacation and staying in a place where lodging is free, like a relative’s sofa, then there’s not much to insure. “If you already have health insurance, it may cover you for a domestic trip, so you don’t need to think about health insurance coverage,” says Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance .
• If your trip isn’t insurable. Traditional travel insurance covers conventional trips with prepaid, nonrefundable components like airline tickets and hotel stays. You might find that you either already have coverage through your medical insurance, or the trip is essentially uninsurable.

So think twice before saying “yes” to optional travel insurance that your online travel agency may offer you when you’re booking a trip. You might not need it.

Here’s when you do need travel insurance

But most travelers should consider some kind of travel insurance coverage this summer. Here’s when you need the extra coverage:

• If you have travel expenses that insurance would cover. “If you have many prepaid, nonrefundable expenses, it’s best to take out travel insurance,” says Lauren Gumport, a spokeswoman for Faye Travel Insurance . ”This includes things like flights, hotel rooms, tickets and activities.” The more conventional your vacation, the likelier travel insurance is to cover almost every aspect of your summer vacation.
• If you’re leaving the country. “Your regular medical insurance might not extend coverage beyond your home borders,” says John Rose, chief risk and security officer at ALTOUR . Also, many countries require travel insurance for entrance. They include Bermuda, Qatar, Sri Lanka and some European countries.
• If you can’t afford to lose your trip. “When considering travel insurance for your summer trip, evaluate whether you can afford to lose your vacation investment due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, weather disruptions or emergencies,” explains Robert Gallagher, president of the US Travel Insurance Association (USTIA). “Can you afford the financial risk if you miss your cruise departure because of covered flight delays? What if you have to cut your trip short because of illness?”

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is assuming their credit card will cover them. For example, I found that my credit card only covered my rental car as secondary insurance, which made it completely useless when I rented a car in Tampa recently. I had to buy a standalone policy from Allianz to cover the vehicle.

How one traveler insured his summer vacation

So how did Hopkins handle his travel insurance needs? Well, as I already mentioned — it’s complicated.

Hopkins says he always buys some travel insurance before he takes a trip, “but how much, and what I cover, varies,” he explains.

He decided that his path to peace of mind in this case was to spend a few extra dollars: He made fully refundable flight and hotel reservations, just in case something goes wrong. That would eliminate a lengthy claim with his travel insurance company or credit card.

But he still needed at least $50,000 in medical coverage with emergency evacuation because of his active schedule.

“We’re going to be doing a lot of hiking in Iceland,” he says. “And you just never know.”

At the beginning of the year, he decided to buy an annual Medjet Horizon plan, a membership that would get him from a hospital in Portugal or Iceland to a hospital at home, in case something happened.

For insurance, Hopkins checked TravelInsurance.com to find an affordable travel insurance policy. He found coverage through Trawick International that pays up to $50,000 in medical expenses and up to $200,000 for an evacuation.

“I’ve heard good things about them,” he says. “Hopefully, we won’t need any of it.”

How do I insure my trips?

I’m on the road about 360 days a year, so I’m always thinking about peace of mind. I currently use a Wells Fargo credit card with lots of travel benefits, and I have long-term policies through Faye and Cigna, which have worked fairly well. I also am a longtime Medjet Horizon member. If I rent a car, I turn to Allianz for my primary coverage.

I know — that’s a lot of peace of mind.

But I’ve also run into trouble and had to use many of those benefits. Medjet got me back home during the pandemic. Cigna covered me after a serious ski accident in Switzerland. My old Allianz policy took care of my medical expenses when I had to see a doctor in Santa Fe, N.M., a few years ago.

Like I always say, when it comes to having enough insurance, better safe than sorry.

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at [email protected] .

Christopher Elliott , Special Contributor . Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service.