How to Get Travel Insurance That Actually Covers You

Buy comprehensive travel insurance within 14-21 days of your first trip payment to get maximum coverage. Read the policy exclusions carefully and choose coverage amounts that match your actual trip costs and medical needs.

1. Calculate your coverage needs. Add up your non-refundable trip costs, then multiply by 1.5. For medical coverage, get at least $100,000 for domestic trips, $250,000+ for international. If you're over 65 or have health conditions, go higher.
2. Buy within the time window. Purchase within 14-21 days of your first trip payment (varies by insurer). This gets you pre-existing condition coverage and maximum benefits. Miss this window and you lose key protections.
3. Read the exclusions list. Spend 10 minutes reading what's NOT covered. Common exclusions: high-risk activities, mental health episodes, travel to certain countries, pre-existing conditions (if bought late), and 'foreseeable' events.
4. Choose the right policy type. Comprehensive plans cost $50-200 per trip but cover trip cancellation, medical, and evacuation. Basic medical-only plans cost $20-50 but won't help if you need to cancel. Annual plans make sense if you take 3+ trips per year.
5. Verify your existing coverage first. Check if your health insurance covers international travel and if your credit card includes trip protection. Many people buy duplicate coverage. Document any gaps you find.
6. Keep all documentation. Save your policy number, emergency contact numbers, and claims process in your phone and email. Print a copy. You'll need original receipts for any claims.

What if I need to cancel because of work?

Standard policies don't cover work conflicts unless you're fired or laid off. Some policies offer 'cancel for any reason' add-ons that cost 40-60% more but let you cancel for work and get 75% back.

Does my regular health insurance work abroad?

Most US health plans don't cover international care or medical evacuation. Medicare definitely doesn't work outside the US. Check with your insurer but assume you need separate travel medical coverage.

Can I buy insurance after I've already left?

Yes, but only medical coverage, not trip cancellation. You'll pay more and have limited coverage. Some insurers won't sell to you once you're already traveling.

What counts as a pre-existing medical condition?

Any condition you've seen a doctor for, taken medication for, or had symptoms of in the 60-180 days before buying insurance (varies by policy). This includes things like high blood pressure or anxiety.