galapagos travel health insurance

Galapagos Travel Regulations

Before you travel

No vaccination is required to travel to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. However, it is recommended to receive Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines especially if you are planning to take tours outside of the cities of Quito and Guayaquil (like the the Amazon and coastal regions ) before of after your Galapagos tour. Please consult a health specialist for further recommendations.

As of June 2018, a Health Insurance has become mandatory for all travelers entering Ecuador. This insurance must be acquired in your country of residency prior to your departure.

Travel Insurance , while not being mandatory, is highly recommended to have, as it will protect you against unforeseen problems with your flight connections and the possibility of missing your cruise/tour. Please refer to our Terms and Policies section to review our refund policies.

International Flights

The Galapagos Islands do not receive international flights. The airports from the mainland cities of Quito or Guayaquil receive all international flights in Ecuador.

It is recommended to stay in either of these cities at least for night prior and after your cruise. You could even take part of one of our amazing add-on tours and trip extensions in continental Ecuador. The Andes countryside and the Amazon rainforest are just few hours away!

Passports & Visas

Citizens of the United States, Canada and most European countries do not require a visa to travel to Ecuador unless they expect to stay for more than 90 days over the couse of one year. All travelers are required to have passports with a remaining validity of at least 6 months beyond their travel dates.

Traveling with kids

There is no age restriction for visiting the Galapagos Islands. However, some cruises , specially yachts and small boats, do not accept children under the age of 6 years old. Larger boats and cruise ships may be more accommodating to younger guests, some even offering special activities and services for them.

Please consult with your trip advisor if you have any boat in mind for your Galapagos cruise and are planning to go with small children. Hotels in Galapagos don't have age restrictions.

Traveling to the Islands

Local flights.

All travellers must come from the mainland cities of Quito or Guayaquil in local flights that take from 2 to 2.5 hours. Most cruise operators rely on particular flights that match the time of their itineraries for a seamless service.

Please consult your trip advisor if you are planning to buy your Galapagos flights by your own. To learn more about flights to and from Galapagos click here.

Transit Control Card

The acquisition of the TCC is mandatory to enter the Galapagos Islands. It has a value of US$20.00* payable only in cash at the airports of Quito or Guayaquil, before embarking your Galapagos flight . After acquiring the card you must pass your luggage through a security point where it will be inspected for items not allowed into the islands, such as fruits and vegetables.

National Park entrance fee

Once at the airports of Galapagos (in the islands of Baltra or San Cristobal), international travelers are required to pay a National Park entrance fee of US$100* per person. This one-time-only amount helps the Ecuadorian government on the conservancy and protection of this pristine environment.

*Fees are subject to change without prior notice.

On the Islands

Boat regulations.

All boats cruising the Galapagos Islands must endure a rigorous process of approval on many technical and logistical aspects to be allowed to operate in the National Park.

The sites visited, time of the day and activities allowed, and even the maximum number of passengers, is regulated in order to make the least impact on this fragile ecosystem. Private owned yachts are not allowed to visit the Island's points of interest but are allowed to dock on the main ports with an official approval.

National Park rules

All travelers must obey the following regulations while in the Galapagos Islands National Park . Failure to comply with these rules may result in sanctions by the Ecuadorian government.

• Keep a distance of 2 meters from wildlife including your cameras.
• Do not touch or feed the fauna.
• Do not remove elements from the ecosystem.
• Do not smoke, drink alcohol or make campfires.
• Walk on marked trails only.
• Take pictures without flash. Professional shootings and drones need authorization.
• Camping is only allowed in authorized areas.
• Use authorized sport fishing boats.
• Do not introduce external elements to the ecosystem.
• Motorised water-crafts, submarines, and air tourism is prohibited.

Please remember:

• To visit protected areas with a specialized guide only.
• Do not vandalize the National Park
• Use authorized tourism services only.
• Classify your trash.

The Ecuadorian government has implemented regulations to restrict the consumption of single-use plastics in the Galapagos region, including plastic straws, single-use plastic bags (t-shirt type), polythene containers (such as those used for takeout), and plastic bottles.

Therefore, all passengers visiting the islands will not be allowed to take along with them, or in their luggage, any of the type of objects described above. This regulation is effective as of June 2018.

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• 1-877-260-5552
• 0800-098-8940
• 593-2-6009-554
• Contact us on WhatsApp
• View more phone numbers
• Request a Call-back

Galapagos Island health insurance

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That phrase can summarize our recommendations when it comes to health insurance before traveling to the Galápagos Islands. Everyday we get a lot of questions about the Galapagos Entry Requirements and the health insurance is the most frequent one.

G alápgos is a unique destination and that’s what caughs the attention of all tourist. Not for nothing they are called “ The enchanted Islands ”  and to keep its uniqueness the Galápagos government has a set of rules and requirements tourists have to comply with in order to enjoy the islands.

Galápagos is also an adventure destination and that means most activities and daily tours are outdoors, doing snorkeling in open water with sharks, rays, climbing to the top of a volcano , relaxing on an isolated paradisiac beach, hiking and so on. To live this is an amazing experience but it also carries a bit of risk. Saying this we don’t want to scare you away. Most activities are safe and you are always in the company of a well experience certified guide and its really unlikely that something happens to you during your trip.

However,  even a small accident can be a bit more complicated in Galápagos because of the location of the tours. Imagine you are hiking on a small islet and you twist your ankle. In any other destination it would be an easy call to an ambulance but in Galápagos you’ll probably need a helicopter ambulance to get you because that would be faster and more efficient and also, a bit expensive. This specially if you had to take a boat ride to reach there.

Must have items for your Galapagos Trip

Do i need health insurance for my galapagos trip.

The short answer is yes. Given the covid 19 situation, health and travel insurance is now a mandatory requirement for the Galápagos Islands.

Even if it wasn’t mandatory, we highly advise you to get one. They are as cheap as $3 a day and can save you a lot of money for even the slightest accident or a bug bite for example. It’s always better to be prepared. We recommend Mondo Health Insurance and if you book following this link you’ll get a 5% discount. Click here to get 5% on insurance discount. 

Galapagos Health Insurance Price

You can get health and travel insurance for your trip to the Galapagos Islands for as low as $3 a day. The final price always depends on the coverage and how long are you staying on the islands (the more days, the cheaper it gets). Get a free insurace quote with 5% discount here .  If you would like a quote or help with your Galapagos itinerary feel free to drop us a line and we’ll be happy to help you.

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What’s the best health insurance for my galapagos trip.

There’s plenty of insurance companies offering different plans, we recommend you to get the one that fits better your needs and your budget. In Galapagos Low Cost we work with Mondo Health Insurance but any authorized company will work to comply with the entry requirements, so make sure you pick the one of your preference and make sure it covers covid 19 as Mondo does.

Let us plan your trip!

Let us build you a personalized itinerary to travel Galápagos on a budget. Drop us a line with the amount of days you plan to travel, dates & things you would like to do and we’ll get back to you with a proposal built specially for you.

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Hello 4 of us might be traveling to guayaquil Dec 16, Galapagos Dec 17 to 21 / 2020. From USA. What kind of health insurance we need, and will cover covid19, too. Please coverage plan and price. Thank you. Erick

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Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Ecuador. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• New   Global Dengue June 20, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Argentina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, Ethiopia, Fiji, French Guiana (France), Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Indonesia, Laos, Mali, Martinique (France), Mauritius, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Ecuador within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Ecuador, OR
• People planning to stay in Ecuador for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Ecuador.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Ecuador. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Ecuador.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Ecuador take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Ecuador.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Ecuador.

Rabies is also present in bats.

If rabies exposures occur while in Ecuador, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Uganda; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these countries .

Recommended for travelers ≥9 months old going to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, east of the Andes Mountains, in the provinces of Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, Tungurahua,* and Zamora-Chinchipe. Generally not recommended for travel limited to areas <2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, west of the Andes Mountains, in the provinces of Esmeraldas,* Guayas, Los Ríos, Manabí, Santa Elena, Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, and designated areas in the provinces of Azuay, Bolívar, Cañar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Imbabura, Loja, and Pichincha. Not recommended for travel limited to areas >2,300 m (≈7,550 ft) elevation, the cities of Guayaquil or Quito (the capital), or the Galápagos Islands *CDC recommendations differ from those published by WHO .

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Ecuador, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Ecuador. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Ecuador include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Ecuador. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Ecuador’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Ecuador. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Ecuador may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Ecuador, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Ecuador, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Ecuador .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Ecuador for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Global travel destinations
• Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

International travel insurance for Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

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The Galapagos Islands are an amazing island group in the eastern Pacific Ocean that is administered by Ecuador. The Galapagos islands is an ecologist’s dream destination and is popular for plenty of fearless wildlife, wonderful beaches, rich blue seas, magnificent underwater seascapes and a natural green landscape. The area around the island has some of the active volcanoes in the world. It has one of the unique backdrops with rare species like Giant Tortoise, Galapagos Fur Seal and Darwin’s Finches.

Travelers to the Galapagos can visit all year round however the ideal time to visit the Island is during the summers when the weather is hot and the ocean is clear between December to May. There are several cruise lines that travel to Galapagos however the most popular one is the Celebrity Cruise that has several ships sailing to Galapagos.An average price of a 5-day Galapagos cruise would cost about $3000. The cheapest Galapagos cruises for a 4 day trip begins at $1000 and can go up to $10,000 per person for an 8 day luxury cruise.

Select the type of travel health insurance for visiting Ecuador Galapagos Islands...

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• Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside USA
• Provides minimum coverage of $3,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
• Provides guaranteed travel insurance for Covid19 for medical expenses of at least USD $50,000.
• Covid-19 is covered as any other sickness
• Safe Travels Voyager plan's trip delay benefit can be upgraded.
• The base benefit is $3,000 (which is $250 per day). Traveler’s can choose $4000 ($300 per day) or $7000 ($500 per day).
• Travel insurance for American citizens and US Residents traveling outside USA
• Provides minimum coverage of $2,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
• Covid-19 is covered as any other sickness.
• Covid Quarantine Benefit: Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$150 per person per day (6 hours or more) is included in the basic coverage.
• Optional Quarantine Benefit Upgrade at additional price Trip Delay Max Upgrade - including Accommodations (6 Hours or more) $4000 ($300/day) or $7000 ($500 per day)
• Travel insurance for Non US Citizens and Non US Residents traveling outside their home country
• Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents
• Provides minimum coverage of $1,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
• Covid19 medical expenses are covered and treated the same as any other sickness
• Offers coverage of $50,000 for emergency medical expenses
• Offers comprehensive trip cancellation coverage
• Travel medical insurance coverage outside USA
• Atlas insurance offers $50 per day for each day that travelers are quarantined abroad for a maximum of 10 days.
• Coverage must be bought for a minimum of 30 days. Proof of quarantine mandated by physician needed.
• Quarantine must be due to you testing positive for COVID-19/SARS-CoV2.

• Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside US
• Trip cancellation up to $50,000
• Trip interruption up to 200% of trip cost
• $500,000 medical for sickness and injury/$1,000,000 medical transportation
• Include $2000 in travel delay benefits for quarantine/lodging.

Covid Quarantine insurance for US citizens

Despite the removal of the Covid-19 restrictions both in the US and around the globe, it is prudent for US citizens to purchase international travel insurance which will make the whole trip worry free and provide good protection for any medical or travel related expenses in case of unexpected situations.

US travelers can either buy US Covid quarantine coverage trip insurance (includes coverage for cost of the trip), or Covid quarantine travel health insurance (insures only the health of the traveler and is cheaper than trip insurance).

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• Travel medical insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside USA
• Available up to 180 days
• Offers emergency sickness coverage up to $500,000
• Covid-19 covered as any other sickness
• Coverage for travelers traveling outside their home country whose destination excludes the U.S. and its territories.
• Deductible options from $0 to $2,500
• Policy Maximum from $50,000 to $2,000,000
• Renewable upto 24 continuous months
• Covers COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 as any other Illness or Injury.
• Patriot Platinum Insurance is best suited for travelers expecting first-class medical coverage; vacationing families; individuals up to $8 million.
• Deductible options from $0 to $25,000
• Policy Maximum from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000
• USA travel medical insurance coverage outside USA for US citizens
• Available up to 365 days
• Offers maximum coverage up to $2,000,000
• Offers insurance coverage for Covid expenses
• US travel health insurance for US citizens outside USA
• Available from 5 days to 364 days
• Offers maximum coverage up to $5,000,000
• Travel Medical Choice insurance offers coverage for expenses related to COVID-19
• Short term fixed benefit cheap travel insurance USA for US citizens outside USA
• Plan maximum options available up to $130,000 for medical expenses
• Offers coverage outside the US
• Deductible options from $0 to $1,000
• Policy Maximum from $50,000 to $150,000
• Offers emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $500,000
• Offers coverage for travelling outside your home country
• It includes coverage for Covid-19 is covered as any other illness under the medical expense maximum.
• Testing for Covid-19 will only be covered if deemed medically necessary by a physician. The antibody test and prescreening test are not covered, as they are not medically necessary. Maximum age for plan eligibility is 64.

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• Ideal for US expatriates and for those global citizens living and working outside their home country.
• Xplorer Premier Insurance provides unlimited annual and lifetime medical maximum.
• It covers pre-existing conditions with creditable coverage

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• Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of insured trip cost
• US Residents on domestic and worldwide trips
• Travel SE Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel SE plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$125 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
• Travel LX Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel LX plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,500/$250 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
• Inexpensive coverage for trip cancellation & interruption
• Travel Lite Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel Lite plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $500/$125 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
• Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of Trip Cost Insured
• Up to 100% of Trip Cost Insured
• It covers Trip Cancellation coverage from $150 to $10,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost: Up to a Maximum of $30,000.
• Maximum Trip Length 90 Days
• Offered by Trawick International and is highly rated.
• You can add a "Cancel for Any Reason" waiver onto the plan.
• It can cover trips up to 90 days long.
• Cancellation of policy must be purchased within 10 days of the initial trip deposit date.
• Trip Cancellation: Basic - $15,000 Max
• Trip Cancellation: Plus - $100,000 Max
• Trip Cancellation: Elite - $100,000 Max
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip cost up to $30,000
• Provides coverage for U.S. residents travelling outside their home country
• Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip cost up to $100,000

 Trip cancellation insurance for Cancel for any reason

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• Cancel For Any Reason: 75% of non-refundable trip cost
• Trip Cancellation: Tour cost to a maximum of $100,000
• Cancel for Any Reason: Up to 75% of trip cost insured
• Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of Trip Cost
• Cancel for Any Reason: 75% of non-refundable trip cost
• Trip Cancellation: Up to a Maximum of $50,000. ($30,000 for travellers above 80 years)
• Cancellation for Any Reason: 75% of the Insured Trip Cost within 21 days of trip deposit - some restrictions apply. Not available in NY or WA.

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• The GlobeHopper Senior plan is available either as the GlobeHopper Single-Trip plan for single trips with coverage from 5 days to 365 days
• The GlobeHopper Multi-trip plan which covers a period of 12 months with a maximum of 30 days for each overseas trip
• It is an affordable international travel health insurance for US citizens.
• It offers coverage for medical and evacuation expenses for short trips.
• It is available up to 12 months
• It is an renewable long term international travel health insurance for US citizens.
• It offers coverage for medical and evacuation expenses.
• It is available up to 12 months.

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• Patriot Multi Trip is designed by IMG to cover travelers taking multiple trips in a year.
• Covers non US Citizens travelling multiple times annually outside their home country
• Trekker Essential Insurance offers maximum coverage of $50,000 for sickness and accidents.
• Available for both US and Non US citizens up to 75 years
• Maximum trip length is 30 or 45 days per trip
• Available for US residents only up to age 81 years
• Maximum trip length is 30 days per trip
• Voyager Annual (offered by USI Travel Insure) covers US citizens in and out of the US at least 100 miles away from home.
• It does not cover trip cancellation but can be used for 90 days at a time within a year and is great for frequent travelers.
• Take an unlimited number of Covered Trips during the 364 day Policy period
• Covers domestic and international trips - up to 90 days each
• Offers two plan levels namely Silver and Gold offer options for different needs and budgets
• Provides coverage for Emergency Accident and Sickness, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Baggage & Personal Effects, Baggage Delay, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment.
• The Gold plan includes additional benefits like Trip Interruption and Political Natural Disaster Evacuation

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Trip cancellation insurance insure trip cancellation related emergencies while in Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

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Group travel insurance for Ecuador Galapagos Islands covers five or more travelers on same itinerary.

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Find the best travel insurance, how does travel insurance work, how to buy travel insurance, travel insurance glossary, travel insurance for specific groups, compare travel insurance plans, travel health insurance ecuador galapagos islands – faqs, 01.  does ecuador galapagos islands travel insurance cover covid19 illness.

There are some USA Covid travel insurance plans available for travel to the Ecuador Galapagos Islands that cover Covid19 as a new illness. It is important to buy the Ecuador Galapagos Islands Covid19 travel insurance before you start your journey.

At present the following USA insurance providers - Safe Travels Outbound insurance and Safe Travels International insurance from Trawick International and Diplomat Long term Insurance from Global Underwriters provide US Covid19 travel insurance coverage in the Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

These covid travel insurance plans are available for US citizens and US residents traveling to Ecuador Galapagos Islands as well as non US travelers traveling outside their home country.

02.  How does find the best travel insurance for USA? How to find the best international travel health insurance?

There are different factors for buying best health insurance for USA visitors. Visitors should compare fixed benefits and comprehensive visitor insurance plans. Foreign visitors to USA travel insurance customers should understand the concepts of deductibles and co-insurance and Pre-existing conditions travel health insurance. A prudent and well informed traveler will make the correct choice while buying tourist insurance in USA for his or her unique needs.

There are many international US travel health insurance plans for coverage both in the USA as well as around the world. Given the several international travel insurance options, it can be confusing to find the best health insurance for international travel. What is very useful in making this decision is to compare US visitor travel insurance available on American Visitor Insurance.

The compare US travel insurance tool allows travelers compare prices as well as coverage benefits in an objective manner. The traveler can change relevant factors like the medical maximum coverage and the deductible and coverage for pre-existing ailments or hazardous sports. After finding the best travel insurance for your needs, travelers can buy it by completing an online application and paying using a credit card. One completing the purchase the travel insurance plan is emailed to the customer.

03.  Why is travel insurance for USA so expensive?

There is no denying that travel insurance to USA is unfortunately very expensive. The main reason for this is simply because the cost of healthcare in the USA is very expensive and the travel insurance USA costs are directly related to the healthcare costs. One more factor for some USA travel insurance plans to be very expensive is that there are specially designed travel insurance for USA plans available for older travelers, with higher medical coverage as well as some plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments.

04.  What are the factors to consider for travel health insurance to USA?

The best travel insurance for USA depends these factors:

• The coverage for accident and sickness related medical expenses
• The coverage for medical and evacuation expenses
• The coverage for pre-existing conditions
• The deductible and co-payment options
• The network of hospitals and providers
• The customer service and claim process

  Ecuador - General Information

Ecuador, officially known as the Republic of Ecuador, is a country located in northwestern South America. Ecuador is situated on the equator, which is how it got its name. The country is bordered by Colombia to the north, Peru to the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Ecuador encompasses diverse geographical regions, including the Amazon rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and the Galapagos Islands, which are located about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the mainland. The capital city of Ecuador is Quito. It is the second-highest capital city in the world and is renowned for its well-preserved historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. The official currency of Ecuador is the United States dollar (USD). Ecuador adopted the US dollar as its official currency in the year 2000.

United States Dollar

Around 17 million

South America

Quito, Galapagos Province, Cuenca, Guayaquil , Santa Cruz Island, Banos de Agua Santa, Isabela Island, San Cristobal Island, Otavalo, Baltra Island.

Popular tourist destinations in Ecuador Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands

Galápagos Islands have intrigued and inspired visitors from around the globe. Named for the giant tortoises on the islands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a unique ecosystem.

High in the Andes, Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is filled with colonial architecture and is the largest historic center in South America.

The beautiful city center of Cuenca, officially known as Santa Ana de los cuatro ríos de Cuenca, is in southern Ecuador and is a delightful city to explore on foot.

The Hot Springs of Baños

At the western edge of the Amazon basin, Baños is nestled among dense jungle-like forests and offers numerous recreational opportunities including hiking and mountain biking.

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US health insurance for travelers from Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

New immigrant insurance for ecuadorians in the usa.

The immigration of the Ecuadorians to the US was very limited until 1960’s. Between the year 1930 to 1960 there were 11,025 Ecuadorians who got permanent resident status in the US. It was during the late 1960’s that several waves of migration started. The first immigration was because of the changed Immigration law in the 1960’s. After changes in US immigration laws many Latin Americans emigrated to US for political freedom and economic opportunities.

In 1986 the Immigration Reform and Control Act brought 17,000 Ecuadorian immigrants legal residency status in the US. This then became a main source of family-sponsored Ecuadorian migration to the US. There were several waves which came to the US. 60% of the Ecuadorians are living in New York. During the great Recession in 2008 there was a decline in Ecuadorian emigration. In the year 2000 there were 400,000 Ecuadorians came to U S. Ecuadorians are the 3rd largest Latin American group in New York City and New Jersey and they are the 8th largest Latino group in the US. According to the U.S. Census of 2000 there were 600,000 Ecuadorians in the New York City.

Migrating to a new country for better economic opportunities and to begin a new life is very challenging, however it is crucial that all new immigrants to the USA have good health insurance on arrival, especially given the Covid19 pandemic. Healthcare in the US is very expensive and proper US immigrant insurance will provide coverage for medical expenses incurred in case of any injury or illness.

Buying new US immigrant insurance is easy at American Visitor Insurance and new Ecuadorian immigrant can compare several plans for prices and benefits according to their specific needs. The 24/7 customer support service by licensed agents will provide answers to all questions by the customers with instant policy documents by Email. Feel free to give a call or email and one of the customer support licensed agents will be able to support further.

Travel health insurance for family, friends and tourists from Ecuador visiting the USA

The US is one of the most desired tourist destinations all around the world. The diverse culture, cosmopolitan social life and several natural wonders makes the country a popular tourist destination. Given the strong Socio-economic connection between Ecuador and the US the relationship is expanding through tourism, strong commercial activities and academic exchange program.

On 26 March 2021, the US government announced that, the validity of the new U.S tourist visa for Ecuadorians under the category B1 and B2 will have an extended validity for 10 years. This extension of the US tourist visa has brought more Ecuadorians to the US. Many Ecuadorians visit US each year to meet friends, family and as tourists. The people to people connections between Ecuador and the US have grown stronger now.

Traveling on a vacation to the US brings in a lot of excitement, however while on a holiday visitors should keep in mind the risks that can occur. Traveling long distance to the US with many changes to one’s normal routine can give a chance for unexpected risks. Travel insurance is important during the Covid19 pandemic for safe travel to the US. In particular when old parents are traveling .International travel insurance provides the coverage for unexpected medical emergencies along with insure the trip costs of the traveler and health.

American visitor insurance has best US insurance travel insurance choices. They work with US insurance providers to offer the best prices along with acute onset of pre-existing conditions and Covid19 travel insurance coverage. Ecuadorian travelers can compare several plans for prices and benefits and get answers to FAQ's from the 24/7 customer support available with licensed US insurance agents. Buying US travel medical insurance is easy at American visitor insurance online and get instant policy documents via email.

Medical insurance for Ecuadorian professionals in the USA

The United States is a country with great innovations, technology and one which offers excellent career opportunities for professionals to work in the US. Skilled professionals from all over the world and from different occupations aspire to experience the “Dream of America”. Ecuadorians have a long and strong history of connectivity and exchange with the US. In an continuous effort to strengthen relations between the two countries, the U.S government on March 26, 2021 announced that all new visa issued to a Ecuadorian for tourist and business purposes under categories B1 and B2 will be extended from 5years to 10 years effective 8th April 2021.

There are several Ecuadorian professionals currently working in the USA. While living away from home in the US, it is crucial that one should have good health insurance with and with Covid19 coverage. The US health care system is expensive and in case of a medical emergency, visiting an US hospital without insurance is scary. A good immigrant medical insurance plan will provide coverage for unexpected medical emergencies that may occur while staying away from home.

American visitor insurance offers to their customers with some of the finest US travel insurance plans with Covid19 and acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage. Buying US visitor medical insurance is easy on American visitor insurance for Ecuadorian professionals .Visitors can answer a few questions and get instant policy documents by email while being sure of guaranteed best price. The 24/7 customer support team of licensed agents will provide answers to FAQ's by customers related to the coverage.

What is the best travel insurance from Ecuador Galapagos Islands to USA?

1.   Atlas America offered by WorldTrips is considered one of the best travel insurance options offers coverage up to $2,000,000. This plan offers coverage for Hospitalization, Prescription drugs, Trip cancellation, Trip Interruption, covid19,Travel delay and Evacuation and much more!. This also offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 79 years.

2.   Patriot America Plus Insurance is another best travel insurance for visiting the USA offers coverage up to $1,000,000. It offers comprehensive medical insurance for non US citizens traveling individually or in groups to the USA. This also offers optional riders provide additional coverage for a minimal charge. This also offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years.

3.   Visitor Secure insurance is fixed benefits plan and an affordable scheduled benefit plan for visitors to USA. It offers coverage up to chosen plan maximum for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years. This plan covers Inpatient and Outpatient treatment facilities and price varies between the types of plans.

4.   Safe Travels USA Comprehensive offers excellent medical coverage for Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA. This includes coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions, well doctor visit, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation and security evacuation benefits. This plan offers coverage up to $1,000,000.

5.   Safe Travels USA is a cheap travel medical insurance plan that covers Non-US Citizens and Non-US Residents while visiting the USA. It offers comprehensive US Covid19 insurance coverage for illness and accident and offer a Well Doctor Visit which pays up to $125.Coevrs Unexpected Recurrence of a pre-existing conditions. This plan offers coverage up to $1,000,000.

6.   Travel Medical Insurance from seven corners offers coverage for non-U.S. Residents and non-U.S. Citizens while traveling outside of your Home Country. This comprehensive insurance starts from $50,000 and provides up to $5,000,000. For people above age 80 years, they get a policy maximum of $10,000. This offers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 79 years and Adventure Activities up to medical maximum.

Confused whether to buy trip, travel or global health insurance? Understand the differences!

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Most countries have opened their borders now for international tourism. Unfortunately, even years after the pandemic started in China, Covid is again making a comeback with new immune-evasive variants.

The Covid situation is made even more complicated with influenza and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) which is also spreading across the globe. Though there is a risk with the new variants, authorities have relaxed their strict controls thanks to improved vaccination coverage.

However, while Covid appears to be less virulent and no longer as dangerous thanks to a large percentage of the population having vaccinations and booster shots, Covid

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Trawick International offers visitor medical insurance for coronavirus with their Safe Travels USA Insurance . The Safe Travels USA Comprehensive plan is ideal for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions even for travelers older than 70 years. You can compare Safe Travels USA Covid19 travel insurance plans and buy it online to get coverage as early as the following day. After buying the Trawick travel insurance, travelers can download a visa letter which indicates that Safe travels USA visitors insurance covers covid19 illness.

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International Medical Group (IMG) travel insurance offers coronavirus insurance for USA. IMG's Patriot America Plus , Patriot Platinum insurance , Visitors Protect insurance and Visitors Care insurance plans cover COVID-19 like any other illness. The Patriot America Plus Insurance and Patriot America Platinum insurance include COVID coverage up to the policy maximum.

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INF travel insurance

INF travel insurance offers coverage for coronavirus as any other new sickness. It is available for Non-US citizens or residents travelling to the US. INF Premier and INF Elite plans covers pre-existing complications from COVID-19.

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Global Underwriters US visitor insurance

Diplomat America visitors insurance by Global Underwriters offers coverage for covid-19 as a new sickness. It is available for Non-US citizens or residents travelling to the US. Diplomat Long term Covid19 medical insurance must be bought for a minimum of 3 months and has a plan maximum options of $500,000 and $1,000,000 for medical expenses. You can compare Diplomat insurance for visitors to USA.

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Atlas travel insurance coverage will cover eligible medical expenses resulting from COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2.

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• Patriot America Plus Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions till maximum limit (up to 70 years).
• Available for US citizens visiting USA
• Visitors Protect Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
• This plan covers pre existing conditions for age 69 and below up to $25,000 and for ages 70 and above it covers up to $20,000 with deductible up to $1,500.
• Atlas America Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions till maximum limit (up to 79 years).
• Diplomat America Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus sickness
• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to policy maximum for age up to 69 years.
• It offers coverage for visitors up to 89 years.
• Covers Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus sickness
• Covers treatment of acute onset of pre-existing conditions (up to 79 years)
• INF Elite Covid19 insurance offers coverage for coronavirus.
• Treats Coronavirus/covid19 as a new sickness & covered by the plan
• Best comprehensive plan that covers all pre-existing conditions up to 99 years.
• Comprehensive plan with full pre existing condition coverage which is unique.
• Covers 90% of eligible medical expenses.
• There is a minimum purchase of 90 days required to buy this plan
• Covers Preventive & maintenance care and coverage for full body physicals.
• Coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines
• INF Traveler USA 90 covers 90% of elgibile medical expenses
• Minimum purchase of 30 days is required for this plan.
• This is a comprehensive plan too but does not cover pre existing condition
• INF Traveler USA Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus illness.
• This plan is available for Non-US Citizens. Anyone visiting USA, Canada and Mexico can enroll in this plan.
• Optional pre-existing conditions rider offers coverage for Stroke or Myocardial Infarction (heart attack) for travelers of any age.
• Plan can be renewed up to 2 year.
• It offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years.
• Plan can be renewed up to 364 days.
• Safe Travels Elite Covid insurance covers coronavirus illness.
• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to 89 years.
• This plan is not available to any individual who has been residing within the United States for more than 365 days prior to their Effective Date
• INF Premier Covid insurance covers coronavirus illness.
• Covers all pre-existing conditions, this means doctors, appointments, blood tests & labs, specialist care, urgent care visits, & hospital stays are all covered for pre-existing conditions.
• Renewable up to 364 days
• INF Standard Covid insurance covers Coronavirus illness.
• This is a fixed plan and is available for both US and Non US citizens visiting the US.

Best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, Best Visitors insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage

• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit (aged up to 70 years).
• The plan is available for individuals traveling outside their country of residence and traveling to the US, Mexico, or Canada.
• Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to chosen maximum limit (aged up to 79 years).
• Covers Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition: Up to 69 years the limit is up to the Medical Maximum purchased per Period of Coverage. For any coverage related to cardiac disease, coverage is limited to $25,000 up to age 69 years, with a $25,000 Maximum Lifetime Limit for Emergency Medical Evacuation. Any repeat recurrence within the same policy period will no longer be considered Acute Onset of a Pre-Existing Condition and will not be eligible for additional coverage.
• Covers Up to $1,000 for sudden, unexpected recurrence of a Pre-existing Condition
• Safe travel USA Covid insurance offers coverage for coronavirus.
• Covers unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing medical conditions up to $1000
• Eligible for foreign residents visiting USA and worldwide
• Covers expenses for treatment of acute onset of pre-existing conditions
• For the acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage with cardiac condition and/or stroke for age range of 14 days to 69 years, $50k coverage is available and for age range of 70 to 79 years, $5k coverage is available .
• For the acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage other than cardiac condition and/or stroke for age range of 14 days to 69 years, $75k coverage is available and for age range of 70 to 79 years, $7,500 coverage is available .
• The policy maximum for this comprehensive insurance starts from $50,000 and provides up to $1,000,000. For people above age 80 years, they get a policy maximum of $10,000
• Acute onset of pre-existing conditions are covered up to $25k for age under 69 years and a coverage of $2,500 for age of 70-79.
• This is a comprehensive plan with excellent coverage.
• Elite plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years.
• Policy maximum $75,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $20,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 70 to 99 years.
• This plan need to be purchased for a minimum of 3 months.
• This is a comprehensive plan with full pre existing condition coverage which is unique.
• Pre-existing complications from covid-19 covered
• Elite 90 plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years.
• Covers accident & sickness while traveling to USA, Canada, and Mexico and covers 90% of eligible medical expenses
• Elite Plus plan with policy maximum $150,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $25,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years $1,500 for age 0 to 69 years.
• Policy maximum $75,000 covers pre-existing condition coverage up to $20,000 maximum with deductible $1,500 for age 70 to 99 years. Coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines.
• Visit USA Insurance is an excellent medical insurance for tourists and holiday travelers, parents of students studying in the United States, new immigrants and visiting scholars in the USA.
• Visit USA offers 3 plans to satify your requirements and budget.

Senior Citizen travel insurance for above 60 years

• The best travel health insurance for 60 year old travelling to the US is Atlas America .
• With the best travel insurance plans for people under 70 years, you get covered up to policy maximum for acute onset of pre-existing conditions for people up to age 79.
• Atlas Premium is another version of this plan with higher coverage available for some of the benefits as compared to Atlas America.
• You can compare Atlas Travel insurance plans .
• Travel Medical Basic offers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to $25k for age under 69 years and a coverage of $2,500 for age of 70-79.
• Patriot America Plus Plan offer coverage upto choosen plan maximum for travelers under 70 years. This is a comprehensive plan from IMG and is is similar to the Patriot America with the unique difference in the benefit that covers acute onset of pre existing conditions up to the age of 70
• Visitors Protect plan offer maximum limits from $50,000 to $250,000.
• Covers medical evacuation, emergency reunion, repatriation of remains, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, etc.
• Patriot Platinum Plan covers acute onset of pre existing condition up to the age of 70 for up to $1,000,000. $25,000 maximum limit for medical evacuation.
• This is a comprehensive plan and is the plan with excellent coverage.
• This plan covers all pre existing conditions including blood tess, doctor appointments, specialist care...for US and NON US citizens coming to the US, which is unheard of, when it comes to visitor insurance plans.
• This plan provides a maximum of $25,000 for pre existing conditions up to age 69 subjected to a deductible of $1,500.
• Pre-Existing complications from Covid-19 covered.
• This is a comprehensive plan with full pre existing condition coverage which is unique. This includes doctor appointments, blood tests and lab, specialist care, urgent care visits and hospital stays are covered for pre existing condition
• Covid-19 medically necessary testing & treatment covered 100% as any other new sickness with no cost sharing.
• Covers 90% of elgibile medical expenses
• This plan covers eligible accident & sickness (excluding pre-existing conditions) while traveling to USA, Canada, and Mexico
• Minimum purchase of 30 days is required for this plan
• This is a comprehensive plan too but does not cover pre existing condition.
• This is another comprehensive plan from INF.
• This plan differs from the other INF comprehensive plans where it does not cover pre existing conditions.

Older traveler medical insurance for above 70 years

• Safe Travels USA Comprehensive is a very popular option for coverage of acute onset of pre-existing condition for people above 70.
• Seniors travel insurance plan provides a coverage of $25,000 for acute onset of pre- existing condition.
• Atlas America plans from WorldTrips have upgraded their benefits for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to age 80.
• There is also a higher policy maximum option available for people above 70 up to the age of 79.
• Atlas Premium plans from WorldTrips have upgraded their benefits for acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to age 80.
• The highest maximum that can be purchased for a comprehensive plan is Patriot Platinum which offers pre-existing condition coverage up to $2,500 for any condition.
• In the $50,000 range there are many fixed benefit and comprehensive plan options available
• Travelers must be at least 14 days old and under 99 years to be covered by this plan.
• Offers coverage from 90 days to 12 months.
• This plan covers pre existing conditions for ages 70 and above it covers up to $20,000 with deductible up to $1,500.
• Travel Medical Choice Travelers must be at least 14 days old and under 99 years to be covered by this plan.
• You may buy coverage for yourself, your legal spouse, domestic partner, or civil partner, your unmarried children under the age of 19, and your traveling companions.
• Visitors Care which offer limited coverage of $2,500. Visitors care insurance offers coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions with sublimits up to chosen plan maximum.
• INF Elite plan This plan provides a maximum of $20,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99 for coverage of pre existing conditions.
• This plan is definitely the most suitable for people with pre existing condition as it is the full pre existing coverage plan.
• INF Elite 90 plan This plan provides a maximum of $20,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99 for coverage of pre existing conditions.
• Pre-existing complications from covid-19 covered.
• Coverage for TDAP, Flu, etc Vaccines.
• INF Elite Plus plan This plan provides a maximum of $20,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99 for coverage of pre existing conditions.
• INF Traveler USA 90 This plan provides a policy maximum of $75,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99.
• This plan does not cover pre existing conditions including acute onset of pre existing conditions.
• Covers 90% of elgibile medical expenses and minimum purchase of 30 days is required for this plan.
• INF Traveler USA plan This plan provides a policy maximum of $75,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99.

Senior Citizen travel insurance for above 80 years

• The Safe Travels USA Comprehensive is also very useful for this age group as it provides a policy maximum of $50,000 and provides coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions for $25,000 and $15,000 for heart related pre-existing condition.
• Non-US citizens and Non-US residents traveling outside their home country but not to the United States. This includes emergency medical evacuation, repatriation and security evacuation benefits.
• It is ideal for foreign residents visiting USA and then other countries worldwide. Travelers on transit visa in US can also purchase this plan.
• This Policy provides coverage to non-US citizens who reside outside the USA and are traveling outside of their Home Country to visit solely the United States, or to visit a combination of the United States and other countries worldwide.
• This Policy is not available to green card holders in the USA. This Policy is not available to anyone age 90 or above.
• Available for individuals traveling outside their country of residence and traveling to the US, Mexico, or Canada.
• It is available for travelers of ages 14 days to 99 years.
• This plan is available for people traveling to the USA and are not US Citizens, US Residents or Greencard Holders.
• It is available for travelers of ages 70 to 89 years
• INF Traveler USA plan plan provides a policy maximum of $75,000 for people over 70 up to the age of 99.
• This fixed plan from INF provides full pre existing condition coverage which includes doctor appointments, blood tests, specialty care, urgent care visits and hospital stays.
• For age 70 to 99 years for policy maximum $100,000 covers pre-existing condition maximum of $15,000/$25,000 with deductible $1,000/$5,000.

Visitor visa health insurance USA

USA B1 visa health Insurance, B1 visa travel insurance for tourists.

B2 visa health insurance for tourists, B2 visa tourist insurance for USA.

F2 visa medical insurance for F1 visa dependents, F2 visa health insurance.

F1 visa student health insurance, International student insurance in USA.

J1 visa insurance for exchange scholars, J1 visa medical insurance.

Health insurance for green card holders, Green card health insurance.

Fiancée health insurance, K1 visa health insurance for fiancé on K1 visa.

H1B visa health insurance, Travel health insurance for H1B visa holders.

Travel insurance for tourists in USA, tourist insurance USA.

H4 visa health insurance, Health insurance H4 visa holders.

New US Immigrant health insurance

The Trump administration had introduced rules making it mandatory for prospective new US immigrants to show proof of adequate US health insurance while applying for the immigrant visa. The aim of this mandatory US health insurance for immigrants is to reduce the burden on the US hospitals, the overall US health care system and finally on US tax payers by uninsured new immigrants.

At American Visitor insurance we offer immigrant health insurance plans which work well for prospective new US immigrants. After buying this immigrant medical insurance, customers will immediately receive the health insurance policy document by email. Customers can use this immigrant insurance document as proof of US health insurance while applying for the Immigrant visa. Given this rule as well as the very high cost of healthcare in the US, it is strongly recommended to buy medical insurance for new US immigrants.

New US immigrant insurance blogs

Us immigrant health insurance plans.

Compare popular US immigrant plans suitable for immigrants regardless whether permanently in the US or traveling out or waiting for Green Cards

Difference between visitors and immigrant Insurance

Find out the difference between US visitors insurance and new immigrant insurance. Compare and buy the best immigrant insurance for USA!

US Health insurance mandatory for new US immigrants

The US government has made it compulsory for new immigrants coming to the US to have proper US immigrant health insurance coverage.

International travel medical insurance

Us visitor healthcare cost.

High health care costs in US could be burdensome to a short term visitor.

Steps for US Visitor Healthcare cost

Travel medical insurance

Offers coverage of sudden & unexpected illness while traveling away from your home country.

Pre-existing coverage

Find insurance plans providing comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions/ailments.

Senior citizens

A fall/illness could become more serious for the older traveler. Be sure you have good coverage.

Travel tips for international travelers – safety, comfort and wellness.

Para clientes que hablan español - Seguro de salud para Ecuador Galapagos Islands en español

Cobertura de seguro para viajeros ecuador galapagos islands, travel insurance ecuador galapagos islands residents, travel insurance from usa to ecuador galapagos islands faq.

FAQs about travel insurance for Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

Travel Insurance USA to Ecuador Galapagos Islands Blog

Blog about travel health insurance Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

Travel Insurance to Ecuador Galapagos Islands from USA Forum

Customer Queries for USA travelers to Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

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Claims about the travel insurance to Ecuador Galapagos Islands.

US medical insurance for visitors to global destinations

Us health insurance for travelers to usa.

• International travel insurance for USA
• US citizens residing outside US and visiting the US.
• USA Green Card holders travel insurance who travel overseas often
• New US immigrant insurance
• International USA travel health insurance for tourists visiting the USA
• Annual travel insurance for US business travelers
• Expatriate health insurance for expats working and living in the United States
• US non-immigrant work visa health insurance for H1B visa holders and H4 visa holders

• US international student health insurance for foreign students in USA (F1 visa / F2 visa holders)
• J visa insurance for US Exchange scholars and their dependents (J1 visa insurance and J2 visa insurance)
• Snowbird travel insurance for USA travelers from Canada and the UK (for warmer USA weather during winter)

US health insurance for tourists to Canada

• International travel insurance for Canada
• International travel insurance for tourists visiting Canada
• Annual travel insurance for US corporate travelers
• US international student health insurance
• Expatriate travel health insurance Expat insurance for US and other expatriates in Canada

US health insurance for travelers to Europe

• International travel insurance for Europe
• Schengen visa travel insurance as required by Schengen consulates
• Travel insurance coverage to insure trip expenses
• Long stay visa travel health insurance for Europe
• Expat insurance for US and other international expatriates in Europe

US health insurance for tourists to the Caribbean

• Travel insurance - Caribbean , Asia , Australia , Africa and South America
• International travel insurance for US tourists and vacationers
• US international student health insurance for US students abroad
• Annual travel insurance for business and corporate travelers
• US Expatriate insurance for expatriates living and working outside their home country

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Affordable travel insurance online.

Fixed benefit or scheduled benefit plans are the most affordable international travel insurance plans.

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Coinsurance & Deductible - How visitor travel insurance works.

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Travel insurance - pre-existing conditions coverage, international travel insurance resources, us visitors insurance providers.

You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Global Underwriters, Travel Insure, GeoBlue, HTH Worldwide and INF insurance.

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Ecuador Travel Insurance Requirements

Last updated: 03/07/2024

Travel insurance is only required when visiting Ecuador if traveling specifically to the Galapagos Islands.

Squaremouth’s Ecuador Travel Insurance Recommendations

For international travel, Squaremouth recommends travelers visiting Ecuador buy a travel insurance policy with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage, and at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage. This coverage is reimbursement-based, meaning the traveler is typically required to pay their medical expenses upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement when they return home.

The Emergency Medical benefit of travel insurance can reimburse travelers for the costs of medical treatment in the event of an illness or injury during their trip. This includes physician services, ambulance expenses, and other costs of treatment.

The Medical Evacuation benefit can transport a traveler to the nearest adequate hospital in the event of a medical emergency. If the treating physician determines the traveler should return home for better treatment, this benefit can also cover those costs.

Medical travel insurance is the only coverage required in order for a traveler to enter Ecuador, however, most travel insurance policies are comprehensive and include a variety of other benefits, without increasing the cost of a policy. This includes coverage for travel delays and lost or delayed luggage.

Travelers visiting Ecuador also have the option to insure their trip costs under the Trip Cancellation benefit. This benefit can reimburse all of their prepaid and non-refundable trip payments if they need to cancel due to an illness or injury, inclement weather, or terrorist incident, among other events.

Click here to begin your search for Ecuador Travel Insurance.

Ecuador Travel Insurance Trends and Data

Known for its historic architecture and scenic landscapes and rainforests, Ecuador has become an increasingly popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world, highlighted by the country’s most popular tourist attraction, the Galapagos Islands.

Destination Rank: 39

Percentage of Squaremouth Sales: 0.66%

Average Premium: $500.00

Average Trip Cost: $8,329.23

Squaremouth Analytics compares thousands of travel insurance policies purchased pre- and post-pandemic to identify changes and trends in the travel insurance industry.

Helpful Resources

• U.S. Embassy in Ecuador
• Travel Ecuador

Available Topic Experts for Media:

Squaremouth's destination information is free and available for use within your reporting. Please credit Squaremouth.com for any information used.

Squaremouth's topic experts are on hand to answer your questions. Contact a member of our team for media inquiries about Squaremouth Analytics or to schedule an interview.

Steven Benna, Lead Data Analyst: [email protected]

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Have questions about travel insurance coverage? Call us! 1-800-240-0369 Our Customer Service Team is available everyday from 8AM to 10PM ET.

BLUECARD TRAVEL INSURANCE

Add it to your trips and tours in Ecuador and Galapagos

Ecuador Health and Travel Insurance for the length of your stay in the country…

As a soon visitor to Ecuador and Galapagos you may be aware that The Ecuador Ministry of Tourism now requires a compulsory Health Insurance for the length of your stay in the country. You can read all about it here >>  Health Insurance to visit Ecuador . If you do not hold a health insurance meant for travel, we offer you a temporary alternative. Blue Card Travel Insurance provided through Nature Galapagos & Ecuador is a travel insurance meant for independent travelers and intrepid families visiting the country soon and arranging day-trips or multi-day trips with us.

The price of NG&E multi-day or day-trips do not include travel insurance but we can add it to your total if required.  Blue Card has been designed to cover your trip essentials for the duration of you tour. This insurance will keep you and your family protected, you’ll travel smarter and safer. Blue card is just 10 USD a day for travleres up to 69 years old and 23 USD a day for travelers 70 years and up. This cost will be multiplied for the number of days of your chosen tour. You can also extend  it to the number of day of stay in the country. Check the benefits below ↓

Blue Card Insurance

Blue Card Insurance through Nature Galapagos & Ecuador provides a travel insurance for a coverage up to USD 100.000 and a 24/7 assitance during your tour to Ecuador and Galapagos. For $ 10 US a day you will be covered in Emergency, Accident and Sickness Medical Expenses, Baggage and Personal Effect loss and more.

Blue Card Travel insurance is only 10 USD per day and per traveler. You can multiplay that cost for the number of days of you trip. Coverage can be applied even to 1 day tours. 

An English and Spanish-speaking assistance team can help you 24/7 when you need it most, connecting you with medical treatment and transportation.

Blue Card coverage includes Medical and Emergency Benefits, Technical Benefits, Baggage Loss and more for the duration of our tours and activities, excluding diving.

Benefits included with BLUE CARD…

Contact us for more info

In case you do not carry a health insurance covering travel and planning to come to Ecuador, please let us know, we can provide a travel health insurance for the lenght of your stay in Ecuador. One of our travel agents will assit you with this and find the best option for you and your party. Contact us on this matter for further information to any of the options below or fill-out the form here. 

Quote Blue Card

Travel Insurance Ecuador

Travel insurance for ecuador.

Ah, Ecuador; a Latin American adventure just waiting to happen. This nation straddles the Equator and offers visitors all sorts of enthralling pursuits, from surfing the waves of the Pacific Ocean down in uber-cool Montanita to whale watching along the coast to wondering at the kaleidoscope of wildlife on the untouched Galapagos Islands. If you're tempted to stray this way this year, then be sure to read on. Our guide to travel insurance for Ecuador outlines all you need you know about buying plans for this corner of South America.  

• What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Ecuador? 

How Does Travel Insurance for Ecuador Work?

• Do I need Travel Insurance for Ecuador? 
• How much does Travel Insurance cost for Ecuador? 
• Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan
• What types of medical coverage does AXA Travel Protection plans offer?

Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to Ecuador?

• Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions?   

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to Ecuador?

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.  AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind. 

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Ecuador.

Picture this: Let's pretend you've planned a once-in-a-lifetime trek along one of the remaining sections of Inca Trail that weave their way through the Ecuadorian Andes (yes, Ecuador has Inca Trails, not just Peru!). Sadly, on your first day's walking, you slip and twist an ankle. With travel insurance, you'll usually be able to get support to find the right medical professionals to help get your body fixed and your travel plans back on track.

Here's are how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Medical Benefits:

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Additional Optional Travel Benefits 

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Ecuador?

That all depends on where in Ecuador you want to go. The Ecuadorian government recently abolished an insurance requirement for mainland Ecuador. However, it's still in place for travelers looking to hop across to the bucket-list Galapagos Islands. That means you will need to be covered if you want to catch glimpses of the iconic giant tortoises and Galapagos penguins. That said, it's generally a good idea to have insurance wherever you head. Why? There are several reasons:  

Medical Emergencies: No one can plan for sudden illnesses and injuries, which is why medical emergency cover is usually a top priority of travel insurance.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Flight Delays: It's no secret that flights in and out of Ecuador aren't always on time. The good news is that travel insurance can offer support if you are delayed of if you miss a connection.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for Ecuador?  

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Ecuador will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan ,  Gold Plan , and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Argentina hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses. For the most add-on coverages of all, be sure to pick our Platinum Plan. That's the option that comes with "Cancel for Any Reason" insurance, so that you can alter your plans without offering a justification and still get up to 75% of your expenses covered. The Platinum also comes with "Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver)" insurance, so that you have extra protections when driving the winding Andean mountain roads and breathtaking Pacific coast roads of Ecuador.

What Types of Medical Coverage Do AXA Travel Protection Plans Offer?

AXA covers three types of medical expenses:

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation   

Emergency Medical: Can cover medical expenses, hospital stays, and even emergency evacuations, covering the expenses of hefty bills and ensuring access to quality healthcare while away from home.

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. 

Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: Offers assistance in unexpected situations such as political unrest or natural disasters, ensuring safe and timely relocation to a secure location or repatriation back home. 

Visitors to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test. In fact, all official COVID restrictions on entry into Ecuador have been lifted as of October 2022. However, travelers may still be asked to fill in a health declaration form, which is usually handed out on the arriving flight, or a transit form, for travel to the Galapagos.

Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions? 

Traveling with preexisting medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.  

Our Gold and Platinum Plans offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions. The Platinum plan is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons,

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition that's been hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.

1.Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight?

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.  

2.When should I buy Travel Insurance to Ecuador?

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14-days of making your initial trip deposit.  

3.Do Americans need travel insurance in Ecuador?

It's not compulsory to have travel insurance to enter Ecuador's mainland, but you do need insurance if you're planning on visiting the Galapagos Islands.  

4.What is needed to visit Ecuador from the USA?

Be sure to have a US passport that's got at least six month's validity left on it. Stays of up to 90 days here are visa-free. You might be asked to fill out a health declaration form on your arriving flight and to show proof of travel insurance if you're visiting the Galapagos Islands.  

5.What happens if a tourist gets sick in Ecuador?

If you become sick in Ecuador, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline 855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please ensure to read through your policy details and information.  

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. 

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

Documents required to enter via land or river border

If you wish to enter Ecuador via a land and river borders from Peru or Colombia, you must present a criminal record certificate from the country where you lived for the last 5 years. The certificate must be legalised with the Hague Apostille and translated into Spanish if issued in another language. This mandatory requirement was announced on 11 January for implementation with immediate effect.

Alternatively, if you do not have a legalised criminal record, you can ask immigration authorities to carry out a check on their ’SIMIEC’ system (which flags any travel prohibitions or INTERPOL alerts).The following people are exempt from the presentation of the criminal record certificate:

• Holders of a valid Ecuadorean visa
• Holders of diplomatic passports
• Children and adolescents under 18
• Victims of human trafficking or those seeking international protection under the Ecuadorean Human Mobility Law.

There are no restrictions in place for anyone flying into Ecuador.

To obtain a UK Police Criminal Record Certificate,  check the ACRO website . For information about legalising the document with the Hague apostille check the  Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Legalisation Office website  site.

COVID-19 rules 

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

If you have COVID-19 symptoms such as high temperature, cough, loss of sense of smell or taste or a skin rash, complete a health declaration form online or when you arrive.

Ecuadorean nationals and foreign residents must have COVID-19 vaccinations. 

Travel in Ecuador  

You may be asked to wear a face mask in some hospitals, clinics and other medical settings.  

See further information on the Ministry of Public Health Twitter account . 

Passport validity requirements 

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements 

You can travel to Ecuador for up to 90 days in any 12-month period without a visa.  

If you plan to stay longer, contact your nearest Ecuadorean Embassy (in Spanish) before travelling.  

If you’re already in Ecuador and want to stay longer than 90 days, you can pay to extend your stay (in Spanish) by an extra 90 days. You must apply for an extension before the first 90-day period ends or you could be fined.  

If you overstay your visa, you will get a fine when you leave. You will not be allowed to return to Ecuador unless you pay the fine before you leave the country. 

For immigration information, see Ecuador Migration . 

Applying for a visa 

To stay longer (to work or study, or for other reasons), contact the nearest Ecuadorean embassy (in Spanish) before you travel. The Ecuador Ministry of Foreign Affairs has visa application information (in Spanish). 

You should get an appointment before visiting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility (MFA). For general guidance contact: [email protected] or [email protected]

Checks at border control 

You may be asked your reason for travel and for evidence of a return or onward journey.  

Peru and Colombia land border crossings 

If you enter Ecuador via land from Peru or Colombia, you must get an official passport entry stamp showing your arrival date. Sometimes buses do not stop at the border, which can lead to foreign visitors not getting a stamp. You could get a fine or be asked to return to the border. Contact an immigration office as soon as possible. 

Galapagos Islands 

Tourists can stay in the Galapagos Islands for up to 60 days. To enter Galapagos, you must have: 

• evidence of a hotel booking or an invitation letter from your host  
• evidence of a return flight to the Ecuadorean mainland  
• completed an online Galapagos transit control card at least 24 hours before your flight – you must also keep a copy 
• travel health insurance, which is mandatory for foreign tourists

Travelling with children 

Leaving ecuador  .

Some British children aged 17 and under must have a notarised consent letter (in Spanish) to leave Ecuador, if they are travelling alone or with one parent or legal guardian.

British children must have a notarised letter from parents or guardians not travelling with them if they were born in Ecuador, even if they’re travelling on a British passport, or live in Ecuador.

If they are tourists, British children (or British-Ecuadorean dual nationals) do not need a consent letter. 

If one parent is deceased, the other parent must submit the death certificate to an Ecuadorean public notary to get an indefinite notarial permit to travel with the child. 

In more complex situations, such as legal disputes, a child will need judicial written permission (‘Autorización de Viaje Judicial’) issued by an Ecuadorian judge (‘Juzgado de la Niñez y Adolescencia’).  

Entering Ecuador  

Children entering Ecuador with someone other than a parent or legal guardian do not need a consent letter. 

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ecuador guide . 

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Ecuador via air and via land . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Taking money out of Ecuador  

You must declare cash you’re carrying when you leave Ecuador. You will have to pay tax on amounts over 1,350 US dollars. 

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Do you need travel insurance to visit Ecuador and Galapagos?

YOU HAVE BEEN ON A CRUISE IN THE CARIBBEAN. HOW DIFFERENT CAN A GALAPAGOS CRUISE BE?

It is not necessary to bring medical or travel insurance to visit Ecuador, but it is necessary to visit Galapagos.

As part of our commitment to inform you on the most important updates in Ecuador and Galapagos, we would like to announce that the travel insurance requirement for visitors entering Ecuador has been abolished by the Ecuadorian Congress.

However, due to the pandemic situation, passengers must show proof of health or travel insurance to enter the Galapagos Islands.

More information about how to travel to Ecuador and Galapagos during COVID

We will keep you informed in this article on any further news of this particular insurance requirement

Bespoke Galapagos will make every possible effort to ensure that this requirement will not affect the travel experience of any of our passengers.

In case of any questions, please don´t hesitate to contact us.

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Travel Insurance Requirements for Ecuador and Galapagos in 2022

A recollection of all past changes, where we stand now, & where will travel insurance requirements for Ecuador be in the near future.

Galapagos travel , ecuador travel.

You may have heard a lot of talk of Ecuador and requirements for travel insurance. This is something that has been discussed here for a long time: whether or not travel insurance should be mandatory for entry.

Current Travel Insurance Requirements for Ecuador

Entering the Galapagos, however, is another story.

The latest news (as of me writing this post) is that travel insurance will at some point be a requirement, but there is no information regarding when this will be enforced.

This is part of a very long series of enforcement dates that have been pushed back. It was supposed to be going into effect as of November 1st, but now we basically just don’t know when this will be mandatory.

According to El Universo , a newspaper headquartered in Guayaquil, this is apparently due to the fact that it’s still not determined what kind of travel insurance will be accepted. They are currently reviewing what’s needed and who will be able to provide this. It may be that we’ll need to work off of a defined list of which agencies are accepted for coverage.

To be honest, the  vast majority of travelers here will have travel insurance, and it’s always a  really  good idea to be properly covered. The point that you need to remember here is that it’s important to pay attention to any changes in requirements. It’s entirely possible that not all travel insurance agencies will be approved or meet the standards for a trip to the Galapagos. You might also not be allowed in until you show proof of coverage.

Aside from this, there were a few other requirements that have been updated. Let’s go over the information that was updated by the government in October 2018

Requirements to Enter the Galapagos Islands

According to the latest release, there are still a few things that you need to show in order to get into the Galapagos. Here’s the short list with explanations:

1. Transit Control Card

As far as tourists are concerned, this just ensures that no one stays past their 90 day maximum on the islands.

You can pick up this document at the airport in the Galapagos, where you’ll also pay the park fees. Currently it’s $100 for adults and $50 for kids. Ecuadorians pay $6 for adults and $3 for kids. You can only pay with cash, and there’s also an additional fee for the TCT. These fees are used primarily to cover conservation expenses.

Note: there are also provisions to do this online. If your Spanish is decent, you can see how to do that here . Ultimately, check with your travel agent to see what’s advised.

2. Evidence of Round Trip

Basically this just means that you can’t get in on a one-way flight. This is one more way of making sure that people don’t overstay their welcome.

All you need to do is show your return ticket, whether by plane or boat.

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3. reservations at approved lodging or cruise.

The most common way to demonstrate this is to simply have a printout of the booking receipt. You could also show an itinerary if you’re going with a travel group. For those cruising the Galapagos , you will need to provide name and details for the cruise you will be boarding.

So that’s the current information that we’re working with right now.

One thing that you should understand about traveling in Ecuador (and many other countries) is that this is a developing country. In other words, the laws and regulations are developing. Sometimes, these changes happen remarkably fast, and other times the enforcement dates get pushed back for years (just like what’s happening now).

Regardless of whether this becomes enforced in the future or not, it’s good to understand why this is such a big concern here.

Why Travel Insurance is a Good Idea Anyway

When tourists don’t have travel insurance, the local hospitals will still take care of their needs. This gets really tricky, though, when hundreds of thousands of people are visiting every year. It’s really challenging for a small community to foot the medical bills.

Basically, by making sure that you’re covered for anything unexpected, you’ll make sure that the communities in the Galapagos get to put their funds towards conservation instead of hospital bills.

COVID & CFAR in 2022

The Covid pandemic put both, the travel and insurance industry upside down. Now that things have settled down, many cruises are now placing a mandatory requirement of travel insurance prior to boarding their vessel. Please consult your trip advisor, if the cruise you will be boarding, or you are looking to book, mandates this requirement. Furthermore, with the uncertainty surrounding COVID, it is now more important than ever to have good travel insurance, that would protect you in the event of any unforeseen reason that would prevent you from traveling. This can vary from getting infected by Covid, and not being allowed to travel, to being physically indisposed etc. Although more costly, travel insurances offer an option called CFAR, which stands for (cancel for any reason). And they would cover you in circumstances that the cruise would be unable to assist. For instance fear of traveling surrounding Covid, or any other pandemic for that matter

Perks of Local Travel Agencies

Just to illustrate this: I live in Ecuador, but I didn’t hear about this until an Ecuadorian friend mentioned it. I did some searching online in English and didn’t find anything to confirm the changes. In fact, a lot of the information I found was a decade out of date! It wasn’t until I started doing some really thorough searching in Spanish that I finally found the update.

With a good travel agent helping you out, though, you’ll be well equipped to breeze through any controlled area. Instructions for getting across borders, lists of what’s permitted, as well as what to watch out for, it’s all part of the package.

Do you have any more questions about insurance for the Galapagos Islands? Do you want to be sure no surprises come up during your trip? Our trip advisor’s are here to help!

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Does my health insurance cover international travel.

Private health insurance typically doesn't cover international travel expenses.

Can Health Insurance Cover Trips Abroad?

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Be prepared for unforeseen healthcare expenses when traveling abroad.

U.S. health insurance plans typically do not cover regular and routine medical care required overseas. This means your health insurance won't pay for care if you need to visit a doctor for a prescription medicine, or if you need treatment for a condition that is not considered an emergency.

Most individual health insurance policies in the U.S. do not provide coverage for overseas emergency care, either. Without that coverage, if you break a leg or your travel companion has a heart attack during your trip, you will not have financial protection against the medical expenses that accrue. To know for sure what your plan entails, call your individual health insurance company to find out what is and isn't covered.

Does Medicare cover international travel?

If you have Medicare coverage, the lack of overseas protection you have is even more cut and dry. Medicare rarely pays for medical care you receive while traveling outside the United States, according to the U.S. Department of State. However, Medicare may pay for some inpatient hospital stays, doctor visits, ambulance services or dialysis care you receive in a foreign country "in rare cases." Possible scenarios include the following:

• You are in the U.S. when the emergency occurs, but a foreign hospital is the closest one that can treat you.
• You are traveling through Canada on a direct route to Alaska and a medical emergency takes place in a region that is closest to a hospital in Canada.
• The U.S. government also says you may get Medicare coverage overseas "if you live in the U.S. and the foreign hospital is closer to your home than the nearest U.S. hospital that can treat you, regardless of whether you have a medical emergency."

In any of these scenarios, however, Medicare only pays for medical expenses Medicare would normally cover if you were in the U.S. Unfortunately, it may be difficult to know which services are and are not covered before you receive treatment, particularly if you are in an emergency medical situation where timing is critical.

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How to get health insurance for international travel

There are two main options when it comes to acquiring health coverage for international travel: travel insurance or a travel credit card with (limited) health insurance.

Consider an international travel insurance policy

To decide whether or not you should purchase health insurance for your trip abroad, take a look at the best international travel insurance policies and what they offer in the following categories:

Medical coverage: If you wind up needing medical treatment abroad, you'll be glad you have a travel medical insurance plan in place. With a medical insurance policy for overseas, you can get emergency medical treatment where and when you need it – and without arriving home from your trip to a mountain of overseas medical debt.

You will want to compare travel medical insurance plans to make sure you have adequate coverage limits for everyone on your trip. Either way, some of the best travel health plans come from companies like Allianz Travel Insurance, GeoBlue, Seven Corners, Trawick International and WorldTrips. As an example, a Travel Medical Plus plan from Seven Corners lets you secure international medical coverage in amounts up to $5 million.

Coverage for preexisting conditions: Some travel insurance companies provide coverage for preexisting conditions. In most cases, you must purchase your travel insurance within a specific amount of time after making your initial trip deposit for preexisting conditions coverage to apply. With the Allianz OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan, for example, you must purchase travel coverage within 14 days of making your first trip payment in order for preexisting conditions to be included.

Other conditions can apply when you're trying to get coverage for preexisting medical conditions as well, so be sure to read the fine print when comparing options.

Medical evacuation coverage: Be aware that, even if your own health insurance plan in the U.S. provides some coverage for emergency care overseas, you will not have emergency coverage for medical evacuation. The U.S. Department of State points out that medical evacuation can cost $50,000 or more in many countries depending on your location and the care you need.

Fortunately, most travel insurance companies with travel medical insurance also provide coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. This coverage comes in varying amounts depending on the insurance company and plan you select.

Cancel for any reason coverage: Having overseas medical coverage is crucial when you're planning trips abroad, but you should know that a comprehensive travel insurance plan can give you even more peace of mind. Common coverages in these plans include trip cancellation and interruption insurance, flight delay or cancellation coverage, baggage insurance, personal liability insurance, and more.

You can even opt for a plan with "cancel for any reason" or CFAR coverage that lets you cancel your trip and get a percentage of your trip cost back for any reason at all – even if you just decide to stay home. In addition to single-trip plans, you can also find multitrip travel insurance policies and annual travel insurance plans .

Compare travel insurance plans and get a quote .

Consider a credit card with travel insurance

Some travel credit cards include health insurance, albeit limited and with restrictions. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve covers up to $100,000 in medical evacuation expenses, but only if your trip is booked using the card. This credit card comes with a premium annual fee of $550, however, so you'll have to weigh the benefits and drawbacks alongside the health coverages.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a veteran travel writer who has visited more than 50 countries in the world over the last decade. She covers a range of destinations and travel types, as well as travel insurance policies through major providers. Johnson purchases travel insurance for her own family and 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.

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UMW in the Galapagos Islands

Ecology and evolution.

Join  Dr. Andrew Dolby  and  Dr. Michael Stebar  for Spring Break among the fascinating flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador. Learn why this unique archipelago remains one of the world’s foremost living biological laboratories and models of conservation biology. Students will study the evolutionary concepts that lead to the unique ecology found on isolated island environments while examining the social and environmental sustainability issues involved in the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. This trip requires strenuous levels of activity, including hiking and snorkeling.

Spring Break 2024 March 2 – 10

Register for this program by  September 22, 2023 .  Registration is not confirmed until your deposit has been received.

PROGRAM FULL FOR SPRING BREAK 2024

View our  cancellation policy .

$500  deposit due upon registration. Final  $3,281  due November 1, 2023 .

*Program fee reduced to $3,593

• Round-trip airfare
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NOT Included

• UMW tuition (may be part of your spring course load)
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International travel may require immunizations or preventative medicines. Please refer to the US Center for Disease Control’s  Traveler’s Health Information Page  for recommendations. The  UMW Health Center  provides free travel consultations by appointment, as well as travel  information  for UMW students. The Center for International Education recommends that each student have a personalized medical consultation prior to international travel.

This program includes strenuous hiking and snorkeling as part of the trip’s itinerary. Participants should be able to walk 10 miles within a 5-hour period and be comfortable swimming and boating in the open ocean.

Accommodations

Students will be housed at local hotels and hostels.

In addition to the program travel during Spring Break, students will enroll in the Spring 2024 course  BIOL 423: Ecology and Evolution in the Galapagos  for  4 credits .  

This course satisfies the  Beyond the Classroom  OR  Diverse and Global Perspectives  general education requirement  by contract with the Faculty Director  only.

Requirements & Prerequisites

Introduction to Ecology and Evolution (BIOL 210) is a prerequisite for this course .  Students must maintain a minimum  2.0 GPA  in order to participate. This program is open to all UMW students regardless of major or year of study;  priority will be given to seniors and juniors . The program is also open to non-UMW students but enrollment in  BIOL 423 for the Spring 2024 semester is required .

Scholarships

Faculty-Led Program Scholarships  are available to UMW students (deadlines apply).

See the program fees and payment due dates in the right column. Use the  Make a Payment  button below to pay your deposit and regular program payment. Use the  Special Payment  option to pay a special amount (such as additional insurance or payment in a different amount as a result of a scholarship award).

Online payees have the choice of either credit card or eCheck (ACH) payment. ACH transactions will be charged a flat fee of $0.50 per transaction. All credit card payments will incur a 2.85% service fee. For credit card payments, a minimum convenience fee of $3.00 will be applied to transactions over $20.00 and under $106.00.

Payments can also be made in-person via cash or check (made out to “UMW”) at the UMW Cashiers Office located on the second floor of Lee Hall. No fees apply with this payment method.

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Travel insurance

Best travel insurance companies of June 2024

Amy Fontinelle

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 2:16 p.m. UTC June 7, 2024

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Editorial Note: Blueprint may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured here on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations. Please view our full advertiser disclosure policy .

WorldTrips is the best travel insurance company of 2024 , based on our in-depth analysis of travel insurance policies. Its Atlas Journey Elevate plan gets the top score in our rating because of the extensive coverage it provides for the price. It offers best-in-class emergency medical and evacuation benefits, as well as high limits for baggage insurance.

Best travel insurance of 2024

• WorldTrips : Best travel insurance.
• Travel Insured International : Best for emergency evacuation.
• TravelSafe : Best for missed connections.
• Aegis : Cheapest travel insurance.
• Travelex : Best for families.
• AIG : Best for add-on coverage options.
• Nationwide : Best for cruise itinerary changes.

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our travel insurance experts evaluate hundreds of insurance products and analyze thousands of data points to help you find the best trip insurance for your situation. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content . You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best travel insurance companies

Best travel insurance.

Top travel insurance plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, why it’s the best.

If you’re looking for the best travel insurance for international travel , WorldTrips’ Atlas Journey Elevate plan gives you $250,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage. This plan is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority. It also has $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage. 

See our full WorldTrips travel insurance review .

Pros and cons

• $250,000 in primary medical coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Primary damage or loss baggage coverage of $500 per item, up to $2,500.
• 5 optional upgrades, including pet care, adventure sports and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Customer reviews

WorldTrips has a rating of 4.27 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 428 reviews of policies purchased through the travel insurance comparison site since 2008. 

Heidi’s expert take:   “WorldTrips offers primary coverage for emergency medical expense and for baggage damage or loss. This means the insurer will pay for your claim first and then seek recovery from any responsible third party, such as your health insurance provider, airline or homeowners insurance company (if your belongings are stolen). Travel insurance with secondary medical coverage might be cheaper, but then you’d have to file claims with third parties yourself, before you could turn to your travel insurance for help.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Best travel insurance for emergency evacuation

Travel insured international.

Top travel insurance plan

If you’re traveling to a remote area, consider Travel Insured International’s Worldwide Trip Protector. It has the best travel insurance for emergency evacuation of travel insurance policies in our rating. This top travel insurance plan provides up to $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits.

• Only plan in our rating that offers $150,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person is only available for cruises and tours.

Travel Insured International has a rating of 4.39 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 3,402 reviews of policies purchased on the travel insurance comparison site since 2004.

Heidi’s expert take:   “The Worldwide Trip Protector plan provides rare non-medical evacuation benefits of up to $150,000. If you’re traveling to an area at risk of a political, security or national disaster, this emergency evacuation coverage could help get you back to safety.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Best travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe offers good travel insurance for missed connections , with $2,500 in missed connection coverage for each person on the plan.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of our best-rated travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage option.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

TravelSafe has a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 1,506 reviews of policies purchased on the travel insurance comparison site since 2004.

Heidi’s expert take:   “If you miss out on prepaid vacation plans because you didn’t make a connecting flight, you’ll be glad for the $2,500 missed connection coverage. Some policies only provide missed connection coverage for cruises and tours, but TravelSafe Classic doesn’t impose that restriction.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Cheapest travel insurance

Go Ready Choice by Aegis has the most affordable travel insurance of the best-rated travel insurance companies in our rating. This is based on the average cost of seven international trips of varying lengths and values for travelers of different ages.

See our full Aegis travel insurance review .

• Cheapest of our best trip insurance plans.
• Pet care benefit of $500 under travel delay benefits.
• Low emergency medical and evacuation limits.
• Low missed connection benefit of $500 per person for cruises and tours only.
• Low baggage and personal items loss benefit of $500 per person.

Aegis has a rating of 4.06 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 1,111 reviews of policies purchased on the travel insurance comparison site since 2013.

Heidi’s expert take:   “If you’re looking for a  budget travel insurance policy , Go Ready Choice may fit the bill. It has comparably low coverage limits, but if you have health insurance that will cover you on your trip, its $50,000 in secondary medical coverage may be sufficient.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Best travel insurance for families

Top-scoring plan

Travelex Insurance Services has the best travel insurance for families because you can add kids aged 17 and younger to your Travel Select plan at no additional charge.

See our full Travelex travel insurance review .

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• Robust travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Low emergency medical coverage of $50,000 per person.
• Non-medical evacuation is not included.
• Low baggage delay coverage of $200 requires a 12-hour delay.

Travelex has a rating of 4.43 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 2,048 reviews of policies purchased on the travel insurance comparison site since 2004.

Heidi’s expert take:   “If you’re traveling with kids, a Travelex policy will cover them, too. The number of children you can add to your policy is unlimited and they’ll get travel protection at no additional cost.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Best travel insurance for add-on coverage options

Travel Guard Preferred from AIG allows you to customize your policy with a host of available upgrades, making it the best traveler insurance for add-on options . These include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings.

There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million. This is a good option if you’re looking for foreign travel health insurance.

See our full AIG travel insurance review .

• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Heidi’s expert take: “You can add riders to your AIG travel insurance policy to maximize your coverage. Choose from these bundles: adventure sports, medical, pet, quarantine, security and wedding. You may also want to add “cancel for any reason” coverage and rental vehicle damage coverage.”  Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Best travel insurance for cruise itinerary changes

Nationwide’s Choice Cruise is good travel insurance for cruises . It has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion.

Choice Cruise also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay when you’re taking a cruise or tour. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.

See our full Nationwide travel insurance review .

• Benefits for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” upgrade available.

Nationwide has a rating of 4.02 stars out of 5 on Squaremouth, based on 570 reviews of policies purchased on the travel insurance comparison site since 2018.

  Heidi’s expert take: “This plan has protections for cruisers when it comes to prepaid expenses. But its emergency medical coverage is secondary, which means you’d have to file medical claims with your health insurance company first. Since U.S. health insurance won’t help you at sea, you may want to look for cruise travel insurance with primary medical coverage instead.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

Compare the best travel insurance plans

Via Compare Coverage’s website

Heidi’s expert take: “Here are my tips on how to buy travel insurance that gets you the most coverage for the lowest price: Buy early . Getting travel insurance within two weeks of making your first trip deposit may qualify you for coverage of pre-existing medical conditions, and it won’t cost you any extra.  Look for primary emergency medical coverage . If you buy a plan with secondary coverage, you’ll have to file a claim with your health insurance first, even if you know it will be denied.  Don’t overinsure . Calculate the value of only your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses that are not already covered by other insurance (like credit card travel insurance or health insurance, if your coverage extends to where you are traveling). Even if this value is $0, you can still buy travel insurance for the travel medical insurance benefits, and you’ll only be paying for the insurance you need.  Understand exclusions . If you are planning to go scuba diving, for instance, make sure this adventure activity is not excluded from a policy’s coverage. If so, you may need to pay for a rider or shop for another plan that offers the coverage you need.” Heidi Gollub, Managing Editor of Insurance, USA TODAY Blueprint

What is the best travel insurance?

The best travel insurance for international travel is sold by WorldTrips, according to our in-depth trip insurance comparison.

The best travel insurance plan for you will depend on the trip you are planning and the coverage areas that are most important to you.

• Best cruise travel insurance
• Best COVID travel insurance
• Best “cancel for any reason” travel insurance
• Best senior travel insurance

Best travel insurance for cruises

The best cruise travel insurance is Atlas Journey Preferred sold by WorldTrips . This plan offers solid travel insurance for cruises for a low rate.

Best travel insurance for COVID-19

The best COVID travel insurance is the Trip Protection Basic plan sold by Seven Corners . It is a relatively low cost travel insurance plan with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Best travel insurance for “cancel for any reason” 

The best “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) travel insurance is Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Basic. Adding CFAR coverage to a RoundTrip Basic plan only increases the cost by about 40%, which is lower than other plans we analyzed. For the extra cost, you get coverage of 75% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses, as long as you cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

Best travel insurance for seniors

The best senior travel insurance is the Gold plan sold by Tin Leg . It is an affordable travel insurance plan with travel medical primary coverage of $500,000 and a pre-existing conditions waiver if you insure the full amount of your trip within 14 days of your first trip deposit.

How much is travel insurance?

The average cost of travel insurance is 5% to 6% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs . 

How much you pay for travel insurance will depend on:

• The cost of your trip.
• Your destination.
• The length of your trip. 
• The ages of travelers being insured.
• Your state of residence.
• The travel insurance policy you choose.
• The total coverage amounts in your policy.
• Any travel insurance add-ons you select. 

Here are average travel insurance rates for a 30-year-old female who is insuring a 14-day trip to Mexico.

Looking to save? Discover cheap travel insurance options.

How much travel insurance should I buy?

Travel insurance companies typically offer several plans with varying maximum limits. The higher the coverage limits, the more you’ll pay for travel insurance. 

Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site, recommends the following coverage limits for international travel: 

• Emergency medical coverage: At least $50,000. 
• Medical evacuation coverage: At least $100,000. 

If you’re going on a cruise, or to a remote location, Squaremouth recommends: 

• Emergency medical coverage: At least $100,000. 
• Medical evacuation coverage: At least $250,000.

When evaluating travel insurance plans, our team of insurance analysts considered the best medical travel insurance policies to have at least $250,000 in emergency medical coverage and at least $500,000 in medical evacuation coverage. 

When should I buy travel insurance?

The best time to buy travel insurance is within two weeks of making your first nonrefundable travel payment, whether it’s for a plane ticket, hotel stay, cruise or excursion. 

Travel insurance costs the same whether you buy it early or last minute, and buying it early has added benefits: 

• You may be able to add on “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , an upgrade that is typically only available for a limited time after you’ve started paying for your trip. 
• You may qualify for a pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver, meaning your pre-existing conditions will be covered by travel insurance. This waiver is generally added to your policy automatically, provided you buy the travel insurance within a certain window after your first trip deposit.
• You will be covered over a longer period of time for unforeseen events that could cause you to cancel your trip, such as medical emergencies, inclement weather and natural disasters. 

Expert tip: You can buy travel insurance up to the day before you leave on your trip, but waiting may cost you the opportunity to qualify for a pre-existing conditions exclusion waiver or to buy a “cancel for any reason” upgrade.

Where can I buy travel insurance?

You can buy a travel insurance plan:

• Online. Visit a travel insurance company’s website to buy a policy directly or use a comparison website like Squaremouth or Travelinsurance.com to see your options and compare plans. You may also be able to purchase travel insurance online through an airline, cruise, hotel, rental car company or other provider you book a ticket with.
• In person. A travel agent or insurance agent may be able to assist you in buying travel insurance.

Travel insurance trends in 2024

Americans are changing the way they travel and this includes buying travel insurance when they might have skipped it in the past. As spending on trips continues to rise , travelers have more to lose if their plans are disrupted. 

Based on travel insurance quote requests on the Squaremouth website last month, these are the main benefits travelers are looking for in a travel insurance policy.

*Source: Squaremouth.com. Travel insurance quote filter usage from April 28 to May 28, 2024.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance of 2024. For companies with more than one travel insurance plan, we shared information about the highest-scoring plan.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• $3,000, 8-day trip to Mexico for two travelers age 30.
• $3,000, 8-day trip to Mexico for two travelers age 70.
• $6,000, 17-day trip to Italy for two travelers age 40.
• $6,000, 17-day trip to Italy for two travelers age 65.
• $15,000, 17-day trip to Italy for four travelers ages 40, 40, 10 and 7.
• $15,000, 17-day trip to France for four travelers ages 40, 40, 10 and 7.
• $15,000, 17-day trip to the U.K. for four travelers ages 40, 40, 10 and 7.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

If you’d like to dig in deeper, head over to our travel insurance ratings methodology page.

Best travel insurance FAQs

According to our analysis, WorldTrips has the best trip insurance. Two of its plans — Atlas Journey Explore and Atlas Journey Elevate — get 5 stars in our rating.

The best travel insurance policy for you will depend on what type of coverage you need. With so many different policies and carriers, the policy that was best for your friend’s trip to California might not be ideal for your trip to Japan. If you’re looking for the best travel insurance for international travel, you may be willing to pay more for higher coverage levels.

A comprehensive travel insurance plan bundles several types of travel insurance coverage, each with its own limits. To ensure you have adequate financial protection for your trip, your travel insurance policy should include the following travel insurance coverages:

• Trip cancellation . With trip cancellation insurance , you’re covered if you need to call off your trip because of a reason listed in your policy, such as unexpected illness, injury or death of you, a family member or a travel companion, severe weather, jury duty and your travel supplier going out of business. 
• Travel delay. Once your trip has started, travel delay insurance reimburses you for unexpected expenses you incur after a minimum delay, such as five hours. It can cover needs like airport meals, transportation and even overnight accommodation. 
• Trip interruption. If you need to cut your trip early for a reason listed in your policy, trip interruption insurance can reimburse you for any prepaid, nonrefundable payments you’ll lose by leaving early. It can also pay for a last-minute one-way ticket home. 
• Travel medical . Emergency medical benefits are especially important if you need international health insurance for travel outside of the country. Your domestic health insurance may provide limited coverage once you leave the U.S. The best travel medical insurance pays for ambulance service, doctor visits, hospital stays, X-rays, lab work and prescription medication you may require while traveling. 
• Emergency medical evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote area, or planning excursions such as boating to an island, emergency medical evacuation coverage is a good idea. This coverage pays to transport you to the nearest adequate medical facility if you are injured or sick while traveling. 
• Baggage delay. After a certain waiting period, such as six or 12 hours, this coverage will reimburse you for necessities you need to buy to tide you over while you wait for your bag to arrive. Be sure to save your receipts and look at your coverage limit, as some caps are low, like $200. 
• Baggage loss. Baggage insurance can reimburse you if your bag never arrives, or if your personal belongings are stolen during your travels. Coverage limits apply here, as well as exclusions for certain items such as electronics.  

“Typically, travelers are expected to pay their expenses out of pocket, and then file a claim for reimbursement,” said James Clark, spokesperson for Squaremouth. “However, there are medical situations in which a provider may be required to pre-authorize payment to make sure the policyholder receives the treatment they need.”

According to Clark, “Providers can pre-authorize payment for medical care and emergency evacuations. With that said, every circumstance is unique, and providers will handle each situation on a case-by-case basis.”

Travel insurance covers your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs — as well as extra money you may need to spend due to unforeseen circumstances and emergencies — both before and during your trip.

Travel insurance coverage varies by plan, but in general travel insurance covers costs associated with these problems: 

• Bankruptcy of a travel insurance company, such as your airline or tour operator. 
• Dangerous weather conditions.
• Delayed and lost luggage.
• Illness or death in your family that requires you to stay home or cut your trip short.
• Illness that needs medical attention.
• Injury requiring medical evacuation.
• Jury duty. 
• Travel delays and missed connections.
• Theft of your personal belongings while traveling.
• Unexpected job loss. 

Travel insurance policies often exclude or limit “foreseeable” losses. Typical travel insurance exclusions include:

• Accidents or injuries caused by drinking or drug use.
• Canceling your trip because you changed your mind.
• Ending your trip early because you changed your mind.
• Losses caused by intentional self harm, including suicide.
• Losses due to war, civil disorder or riots.
• Medical tourism.
• Medical treatment for pre-existing conditions.
• Mental health care.
• Natural disasters that begin before you buy travel insurance.
• Non-medical evacuation.
• Normal pregnancy. 
• Medical treatment related to high-risk activities.
• Routine medical care, such as physicals or dental care.
• Search and rescue.

Your U.S. health insurance may provide little or no coverage in foreign countries. Check with your health insurance company to see if you have any global benefits and ask how they work. If your health care does extend across the border, the benefits it provides abroad may not be the same benefits it provides domestically. 

Medicare usually won’t pay for health care outside of the United States and its territories, so older travelers planning an international trip should look into the best senior travel insurance with robust medical benefits. 

The best time to buy travel insurance is immediately after booking your trip and making a nonrefundable payment — in other words, as soon as you’re at risk of losing money. This way, you’ll know the total cost that you need to insure and you’ll have the longest window to take advantage of your policy’s benefits if something goes wrong.

You can’t wait until something goes wrong and then buy travel insurance to get reimbursed for your loss. Travel insurance only covers unexpected losses.

Travel insurance companies can decline to cover travel to certain countries. For example, you may find that some trip insurance companies don’t offer coverage to countries with a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. 

Travel insurance policies also frequently exclude certain risks that you’re more likely to encounter in Level 4 or Level 3 countries. For example, your policy may not cover losses related to declared or undeclared wars or acts of war or losses related to known or foreseeable conditions or events. 

Some credit cards , such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , offer benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance and trip delay reimbursement when you use your card to pay for your trip.

Ask your credit card issuer for your card’s benefits guide to see what coverage you may have. Keep in mind that it may not cover all the risks you want to protect against, such as the cost of international health care or emergency medical evacuation .

Business travel insurance makes sense if you are self-employed and paying for your own travel expenses, or if you are traveling internationally and want medical coverage abroad.

You might also consider buying travel insurance for a business trip if your company won’t cover extra expenses if your flight is delayed or you need to head home early.

Cruise travel insurance can help protect you financially if you need emergency medical care in a remote location, or if a delayed flight causes you to miss embarkation and you need to pay extra to catch up to your cruise.

Experts caution that travel insurance you buy through a cruise line may not be as comprehensive as plans you can buy directly from travel insurance companies.

Some travel insurance plans cover rental cars as an optional upgrade, for an additional cost. The 5-star rated travel insurance companies in our rating offer these optional rental car benefits:

• Travel Insured International — Rental car damage and theft coverage of $50,000.
• WorldTrips — Rental car damage and theft coverage of $50,000 with a $250 deductible. 

Travel insurance typically only covers a single trip, although your insured trip can have multiple destinations. 

If you’re looking to insure several trips in the same year, annual travel insurance may be a good option for you.

Travel insurance may be required, depending on the country you plan to visit. But it’s smart to consider buying a travel insurance policy for international travel, even when it is not required. A good travel insurance policy can protect you financially if you need emergency medical assistance when traveling, or if you need to cut your trip short and buy a last-minute plane ticket home because an immediate family member is ill. 

Wondering if travel insurance is worth it? What travel insurance covers

Editor’s Note: This article contains updated information from previously published stories:

• Spirit Airlines scrubs 60% of its Wednesday flights, says cancellations will drop ‘in the days to come.’
• 'Just a parade of incompetency': Spirit Airlines passengers with 'nightmare' stories want more than apology, $50 vouchers
• ‘This is not our proudest moment’: Spirit Airlines CEO says more flight cancellations expected this weekend
• Hurricane Irma: Flight cancellations top 12,500; even more expected
• Is an annual travel insurance policy right for you?
• How 2020 and COVID-19 changed travel forever – and what that means for you
• COVID-19 or delta variant have you ready to scrap your trip? Here’s how to cancel like a pro
• Sunday: Snow is over, but flight cancellations top 12,000
• After nearly 13,000 Harvey cancellations, Irma is new threat to airline flights
• What’s the difference between travel insurance and trip ‘protection’?
• How to choose the right travel insurance for your next vacation
• Travel insurance can save the day
• Angry passengers brawl after Spirit cancels flights
• What to do when travel insurance doesn’t work
• How lockdowns, quarantines and COVID-19 testing will change summer travel in 2021
• Travelers will pay and worry more on summer vacation this year. But they won’t cancel
• How to find a hotel with COVID testing and quarantine facilities wherever you travel
• Yearning to travel in 2022? First, figure out your budget – then pick a destination
• Pro tips for surviving a long flight during a pandemic: Get the right mask, bring a pillow
• Want to steer clear of contracting COVID-19 on your next vacation? Follow these guidelines
• Post-pandemic travel: Is it OK to ask another passenger’s vaccine status or request they mask up?
• These days, forgetting these important travel items could cost you thousands of dollars
• International travel hacks: When to book flights and hotels, how to deal with COVID-19 rules
• Traveling post-coronavirus: How do you book your next trip when so much remains uncertain?
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• Should you travel during the holidays? Americans struggle with their decision
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Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

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Amy Fontinelle has more than 15 years of experience helping people make informed decisions about their money, whether they’re refinancing a mortgage, buying insurance or choosing a credit card. As a freelance writer trained in journalism and specializing in personal finance, Amy digs into the details to explain the products and strategies that can help (or hurt) people seeking greater financial security and wealth. Her work has been published by Forbes Advisor, Capital One, MassMutual, Investopedia and many other outlets.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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The Guide to Travel Insurance for Trips to Europe

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

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Table of Contents

How travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for health insurance while traveling in europe, other tips for travel and medical insurance in europe, which credit cards offer europe travel insurance, travel insurance for europe recapped.

Traveling abroad can be an exhilarating adventure, especially when you’re heading to Europe. Whether you’re in the mood for an eclair or want to take in the Colosseum, making your way over to Europe involves a lot of moving parts.

That’s why travel insurance can be so beneficial. With protections such as trip delay reimbursement and coverage for lost luggage, travel insurance can help make sure your trip stays smooth.

What’s more, several plans include travel health insurance in Europe, so you can worry less about whether that hike through the Alps is a good idea.

Let’s take a look at travel insurance in Europe as well as other coverage options for your vacations.

Because a lot of thought, money and effort go into planning and taking a vacation, protecting your investments (and yourself) with travel insurance can make the difference between an enjoyable memory and a disastrous anecdote you tell at mealtimes.

Travel insurance can cover a variety of things, including:

Accidental death insurance .

Baggage delay and lost luggage insurance .

Cancel for Any Reason insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance .

Medical insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Trip delay insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

Trip cancellation, trip delay, trip interruption and lost luggage insurance are all sources of protection when you travel, especially on airlines. These can reimburse you for nonrefundable expenses you miss out on due to covered delays, and may pay you back for costs you end up incurring (including lodging, meals, toiletries and clothing).

Although it’s possible to get standard health insurance for trips abroad, it’s much more common to get coverage for emergency care, which includes protections for unexpected injuries and illnesses.

Health insurance for European travel is usually included with a standard travel insurance policy, but there are plan limits and there may be deductibles.

It’s also possible to purchase medical-only travel insurance from certain providers if you aren’t interested in other trip protections.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

Before you start shopping for travel and medical insurance in Europe, evaluate the level of coverage you need based on your age, health, trip duration, destination and planned activities (some adventure sports aren't always covered). Compare plans from different providers, paying attention to coverage, benefits and prices.

Here's a short list of factors to consider:

The cost of the policy. 

The limits of the plan.

Whether there are deductibles.

Whether the benefits are primary or secondary.

Where you’re going. 

How long your trip is.

Whether you already have insurance that’ll cover you.  

The types of activities you’ll be doing. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) can streamline your shopping experience. Be sure to also read reviews and ratings of individual travel insurance companies to get an idea of customer service and claim resolution processes.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

To figure out the best plans for travel and health insurance in Europe, we generated quotes from multiple travel insurance companies using a test scenario. For this example, we used a 37-year-old Nevada resident traveling to Germany for 11 days with a $4,000 trip cost. Here are the winners.

GeoBlue’s Voyager Choice medical insurance for European travel sits head and shoulders above the rest for cost, at only $28.16.

That said, there's a reason it is so affordable. This plan offers coverage only for medical emergencies and lacks other trip protections. It is a good option if you want to supplement existing travel coverage (say via your credit card ) with more medical coverage.

$1 million in medical coverage.

$0 deductible.

Offers direct billing.

No trip protections.

Pre-existing condition coverage requires that you have domestic health insurance.

Can only purchase plans up to six months in advance of your trip. 

» Learn more: Read our full GeoBlue travel insurance review

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel SE’s comprehensive plan includes both trip protections and health insurance for Europe travel and rings in at just $135.36.

At this price point, it provides excellent primary coverage for medical insurance, offers rental car insurance and includes superior trip interruption reimbursement.

$250,000 in medical coverage.

$40,000 in rental car insurance. 

Pre-existing conditions covered. 

Travel delay reimbursement kicks in after 12 hours. 

Baggage loss is capped at $250 per item and $1,500 total.

More expensive than other options. 

» Learn more: Read our full review of IMG travel insurance

3. Detour Insurance

The Detour Insurance @The Edge insurance plan is aptly named. Costing $86.90, the plan offers a unique inclusion for the costs of search and rescue, which can provide peace of mind if you're participating in backcountry adventures.

$1 million limit for medical evacuation. 

Coverage can be extended. 

$10,000 for search and rescue. 

No rental car insurance. 

Pre-existing conditions not covered. 

$50,000 limit for 24-hour accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. 

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

4. Trawick International

Trawick International’s Safe Travels Protect plan includes primary medical coverage as well as a wide range of trip protections. At $100.03, it even covers cancellations for medical reasons.

$25,000 in emergency medical coverage.

100% for both trip cancellation and trip interruption. 

Medical quarantine coverage included. 

$100 medical deductible.

$500 lost luggage limit (not a great fit if you are packing several valuables).

Doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions. 

» Learn more: Read our full Trawick International review

Do you have a travel credit card ? Many of these cards offer complimentary travel insurance as a part of their benefits. 

The plan you select may offer secondary coverage, but this matters only if you have existing insurance. In its absence, secondary coverage becomes primary. 

Look at your existing health insurance policy. Some plans will provide emergency coverage for you when traveling internationally. 

If you’re planning on heading for the Dolomites or other European mountains for winter sports, be sure that your travel insurance covers adventure activities; not all do. Travel insurance can rescue a ski or snowboard trip , but read the fine print to see what exclusions apply before you purchase a policy. 

» Learn more: 5 tips before buying Schengen visa travel insurance

If you’re looking for insurance when traveling to Europe, you may already have it without knowing. Many travel credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance.

Available types of insurance can include rental car insurance, emergency medical insurance, trip cancellation reimbursement, lost luggage protection and trip delay insurance.

Here are some of the best credit cards for travel insurance:

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

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

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

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

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

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

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

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

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

Terms apply.

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

• Trip cancellation: Up to $2,000 per person for nonrefundable airline, bus, train or ferry tikets.

• Trip interruption: Up to $2,000 per person for nonrefundable airline, bus, train or ferry tikets.

• Lost or damaged luggage : Up to $3,000 per passenger.

» Learn more: How to choose a credit card for Europe travel

Staying safe is important during your trip to Europe. Health insurance for travel can make a difference, especially if you’re planning on doing anything adventurous. The same can be said for other trip protections, which reimburse you for covered expenses that you incur.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

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

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

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

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

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g., plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Health To-Do List When Traveling to the UK

Last Updated on January 6, 2024

Health and fitness holidays in the UK have gained immense popularity in 2023. With The Guardian’s  extensive catalog  of wellness travel featuring everything from invigorating running breaks in Scotland to serene mindful walking weekends in Wales, the spotlight on traveling for your well-being has never been stronger. However, as tourists increasingly seek vacations that align with their health goals, prioritizing well-being beyond simple wellness retreats is equally important.

A proactive approach to health ensures you can enjoy the mainland and different islands of the UK without worrying about getting sick along the way. To maximize your health outcomes, preparation must begin long before the first boarding call. Below, we take a closer look at four health to-dos before traveling to the UK in 2024.

Update your vaccines

Traveling increases your chances of spreading diseases that are rare in your home country. Hence,  updating your vaccines  is not only a preventive measure for your well-being but also a responsible action to protect the communities you visit.

For example, there are routine vaccines that are recommended for anyone going to the UK, such as chickenpox, shingles, or the flu. You can always have additional vaccines for certain conditions if you think you’re more likely to be exposed to them. For instance, hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for travelers who plan to visit smaller villages and rural areas. Otherwise, it’s crucial to check for any travel health notice regarding current health issues in your destination. As of September 2023, the UK was placed under Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions for poliovirus, so it would be wise to be up to date on your polio vaccines.

Check your eye health

Vision health can significantly impact your adventures. Yet, the process of safeguarding your eye health can vary across different locations. For one, eyeglass wearers who lost their glasses may struggle to find a new pair in rural areas, leading to blurry and uncomfortable vision for the rest of the trip. In that case, it’s best to have spare eyeglasses on hand.

However, there are various accessible options for vision care. If you need to immediately replace your eyewear, then you can find affordable options for different types of  glasses  at eyewear retailer Glasses Direct, with deals such as 2-for-1 designer frames from £69 (approximately $88). This can be ordered online and delivered directly to your accommodations. If you need a new prescription, then you can easily book an eye test at the multiple branches of Asda Opticians or Vision Express. You might also qualify for a free eye test from the NHS in Scotland as an overseas visitor, so try to register with a general medical practice as soon as you arrive at your destination.

Check your oral health

Maintaining good oral health is vital on international journeys, especially longer trips. Similar to eye health maintenance, however, this process can be a little difficult in a new location. This can be particularly challenging in the UK, which has had a  shortage of dentists  since 2021, with dental tourism at record highs. In fact, UK-based consultancy Medical Travel Market received over 1,500 inquiries in 2023, up more than 450% from 2022.

Thus, consulting with a dentist before any extended trip is crucial, especially for those with ongoing treatments, such as braces or retainers. Your dentist may need to adjust your braces to a safer setting before your travels or equip you with an extra retainer. These will help you avoid the inconvenience of seeking orthodontic treatment during your travels. If it comes down to it, then you may have to find a private clinic in the UK or line up for NHS dental services if eligible.

Secure travel insurance

As you embark on the journey of a lifetime, it’s crucial to have a safety net in place. Factors such as trip duration or destinations should be taken into account when securing  travel insurance . For instance, annual contracts normally cover up to 30 days maximum, whereas backpacking insurance can range from three months to a year. A helpful tip: most travel insurance comes with a deductible that you must pay beforehand. Clarify this policy when making any purchase.

That being said, take your time to compare several insurance companies, then, upon your selection, inform your provider about your travel plans. Understanding your coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected events will provide peace of mind throughout your journey.

By prepping in advance, you lay the foundation for a journey to the UK filled with memorable moments and peace of mind. Remember, taking care of your health is not only a personal responsibility but also a commitment to fostering a healthier global travel community.

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• Best overall
• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance in June 2024

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

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Our Picks for the Best Travel Insurance Companies

• Best Overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance
• Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

Best Overall Travel Insurance

Nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review .

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Best Travel Insurance Runner-Up

Axa assistance usa travel insurance.

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review .

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

Best Travel Insurance for Cruises

Aig travel guard.

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review .

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Insurance for Reputation

C&f travel insured.

While every travel insurance company has negative reviews about its claims process, C&F Travel Insured 's claims process has a consistent stream of positive reviews. One customer wrote that C&F processed a claim within 48 hours. Additionally, C&F regularly responds to customer reviews within one business week, making reviews a consistent way to reach the company.

Additionally, in C&F's fine print, it mentions that any claims that take more than 30 days to pay out will begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

C&F's reputation isn't the only thing to speak highly of. It offers an array of add-ons uncommon in the travel insurance industry, such as Interruption for Any Reason insurance and CFAR coverage for annual plans. C&F also offers discounts for children on its Protector Edge plan and free coverage on its Protector plan.  

Read our C&F Travel Insured review . 

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

Best Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions

Tin leg travel insurance.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Seven of Tin Leg's eight travel plans include coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment.

Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads

Worldtrips travel insurance.

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

Best Travel Insurance for Affordability

Trawick international travel insurance.

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

Travelex travel insurance.

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the U.S., but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the U.S. for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review .

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about how much emergency medical care while traveling will cost, even in the most remote corners of the globe. This coverage will often come in tandem with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short. You may also look for cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason options, which will reimburse you for a percentage of your nonrefundable fees, but expands the covered reasons you can cancel a trip. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance companies here.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Also, check websites that field customer reviews like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and InsureMyTrip , to see how well a company responds to customer requests.

Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering. While the ratings are important, you should also look at whether or not a company responds to customer complaints.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every traveler. Determine the benefits that are most important to you, like baggage delay coverage, medical coverage, and trip delay coverage, then look for a company with solid customer ratings, especially when it comes to processing claims.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences, as it varies wildly from company to company.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include travel medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

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

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

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