Best Travel Insurance Companies 2023

While you might be trading your flip-flops for cozy sweaters and pumpkin-spiced lattes, travel insurance is always a smart choice. These insurance plans bundle together essential benefits that can save you money when unexpected events disrupt your travel plans. If you’re on the hunt for reliable travel insurance to safeguard your upcoming adventures, we’ve conducted thorough research and curated a list of the finest travel insurance companies for 2023. This comprehensive guide will assist you in selecting the ideal coverage for your travel needs.

The Best Travel Insurance Companies for 2023:

Rank	Company Name	Top-Recommended Plan	Medical & Evacuation Coverage per Person	Covid Coverage	Why We Recommend It
1	HTH Worldwide	TripProtector Preferred Plan	$500,000/$1 million	Yes	Exceptional medical coverage, peace of mind for travelers.
2	Nationwide	Cruise Luxury	$150,000/$1 million	Yes	Options for upgrades, customizable coverage.
3	Seven Corners	RoundTrip Choice	$500,000/$1 million	Yes	Outstanding value, comprehensive protection.
4	Travel Insured	Worldwide Trip Protector	$100,000/$1 million	Yes	Non-medical evacuation coverage for unforeseen situations.
5	TravelSafe	Classic Plan	$100,000/$1 million	Yes	Missed connection coverage, seamless travel navigation.
6	WorldTrips	Atlas Journey Premier	$150,000/$1 million	Yes	Additional coverage options, policy customization.
7	AXA Assistance USA	Platinum Plan	$250,000/$1 million	Yes	Exceptional baggage and personal effects coverage.
8	Cat 70	Travel Plan	$500,000/$500,000	Yes	Comprehensive coverage for parents and families.
9	Generali Global Assistance	Premium Plan	$250,000/$1 million	Yes	Pre-existing medical condition coverage, health protection.
10	IMG	iTravelInsured LX	$500,000/$1 million	Yes	Comprehensive coverage for dog owners and their pets.
11	John Hancock Insurance Agency	Gold Plan	$250,000/$1 million	Yes	Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
12	Tin Leg	Economy Plan	$100,000/$1 million	Yes	Quick and efficient coverage for last-minute travelers.

These travel insurance companies offer a range of options to suit different traveler needs and preferences.

Understanding Travel Insurance: What It Encompasses

Embarking on a journey is thrilling, but safeguarding your investment and yourself with the right travel insurance is paramount. Travel insurance comes in various forms to cater to different budgets and needs. This guide will help you comprehend the comprehensive coverage provided by travel insurance and guide you in selecting the most suitable plan for your upcoming trip.

1. Trip Cancellation Insurance

No one foresees the need to cancel a trip, but life’s uncertainties make it a possibility. Unforeseen circumstances like illness, injury, a family member’s health issue, or jury duty can disrupt your plans. Trip cancellation insurance offers full reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable deposits if you must cancel for reasons specified in the policy. Some policies even extend coverage to Covid-related trip cancellations if you contract the virus shortly before your trip. It’s important to note that only non-refundable amounts should be insured, as refundable items like plane tickets are typically ineligible for claims.

2. Travel Delay Insurance

Unexpected travel disruptions due to unforeseen events can be both inconvenient and costly. Travel delay insurance covers expenses incurred when you find yourself stranded due to a covered delay. For instance, if adverse weather conditions result in a flight delay, this insurance can reimburse you for essential items such as food and toiletries. It may also cover accommodation and meals in the event of an extended delay. However, it’s essential to be aware that travel delay insurance usually comes with a defined waiting period, a daily maximum limit, and an overall maximum limit per person.

3. “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

For the utmost flexibility, consider enhancing your trip cancellation insurance with “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. CFAR allows you to cancel your trip for any reason, even those not listed in your base policy, such as a simple change of plans. However, it typically reimburses you for 75% or 50% of your trip costs, not the full 100% available with standard trip cancellation coverage. CFAR typically adds approximately 50% to the cost of your insurance plan and may not be offered by all insurers.

4. Travel Medical Insurance

When traveling abroad, your U.S. health plan may offer limited or no coverage. Travel medical insurance covers a range of medical expenses during your trip, including ambulance services, X-rays, lab work, medications, doctor and hospital bills, and more. These policies often provide generous coverage limits, sometimes up to $500,000 per person. For seniors, particularly those on Medicare, travel medical insurance is crucial since Medicare generally does not cover healthcare services outside the U.S.

5. Emergency Medical Evacuation Coverage

This coverage is especially essential when traveling to remote areas where access to quality medical care may be limited. Emergency medical evacuation insurance covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest suitable medical facility. Premium travel insurance policies often offer substantial coverage, sometimes up to $1 million per person.

6. Trip Interruption Insurance

When you find yourself in a situation where you need to curtail your trip due to a covered reason, trip interruption insurance becomes incredibly valuable. This type of insurance provides reimbursement for non-refundable aspects of your trip that you are unable to utilize, such as prepaid hotel reservations or scheduled activities. Additionally, it can encompass the cost of last-minute one-way tickets for your return journey in the event of unforeseen emergencies.

7. Baggage Delay Coverage

When your luggage takes an unexpected detour, baggage delay coverage helps alleviate the inconvenience by reimbursing you for essential items while you await your belongings. These items could include clothing, toiletries, or other necessities. Policies typically stipulate a waiting period, often around six hours.

8. Baggage Loss and Personal Effects Coverage

In situations where your luggage never arrives or your belongings are stolen, this coverage can help mitigate the financial impact. However, reimbursement is generally based on the depreciated value of your possessions rather than the cost of replacing them.

Exclusions in Travel Insurance

While travel insurance provides comprehensive coverage, there are exclusions to be aware of. Common exclusions include injuries from high-risk activities like scuba diving, incidents caused by intoxication, and medical tourism expenses. Typically, cash loss or theft isn’t covered, and travel insurance won’t apply if you cancel a trip due to personal reasons like a fear of flying.

Travel Insurance Costs

The travel insurance cost varies but averages around 6% of your trip cost. This cost depends on factors such as your age, trip cost, and the level of coverage you choose. Here’s a breakdown of average costs based on different trip expenses:

• $1,000 trip: $61 (6%)
• $2,500 trip: $120 (5%)
• $5,000 trip: $228 (5%)
• $10,000 trip: $512 (5%)
• $20,000 trip: $1,204 (6%)
• $30,000 trip: $1,848 (6%)
• $50,000 trip: $3,091 (6%)

Actual prices may vary depending on the plan and provider you select.

What Affects Travel Insurance Costs?

Several factors influence the cost of travel insurance:

• Trip Cost: The higher the insured amount for your trip, the greater the cost.
• Age: Typically, older travelers tend to file more claims, which can affect pricing.
• Coverage: Opting for more extensive protection results in a higher premium.
• Destination, Trip Length, and Claims History: Generally, these factors have minimal impact on your insurance costs.

Acquiring Travel Insurance

Securing travel insurance is a straightforward process. It’s usually attainable online within minutes, requiring essential details such as your age, destination, trip expenses, and travel dates. Alternatively, you can obtain it through a travel agent or directly from travel providers like airlines or cruise companies. Purchasing it shortly after booking your trip ensures you receive maximum coverage for trip cancellation benefits.

Determining the Necessity of Travel Insurance

The necessity for travel insurance depends on your specific circumstances:

• Traveling Abroad: If your health plan lacks international coverage, acquiring travel medical insurance becomes essential.
• Visiting Remote Locations: Emergency medical evacuation coverage becomes imperative in such scenarios.
• Seeking Emergency Support: The travel assistance services 24/7 that come with travel insurance can be incredibly valuable.
• Risk of Financial Loss: If you stand to lose non-refundable deposits in case of trip cancellation, securing trip cancellation coverage is a prudent choice.

When choosing a policy, consider factors like your destination, activities, and how much flexibility you want. Also, assess your concerns about Covid-related issues, as some policies cover Covid-related cancellations and medical expenses.

In summary, travel insurance offers protection against unexpected events that can disrupt your trip. Understanding your needs, destination, and the coverage options available will help you select the best policy for your upcoming adventure.

Conclusion: 

If you are ready to embark on your next adventure, remember that travel insurance can be your trusted companion, ensuring peace of mind in the face of unexpected events. Our list of the “best travel insurance companies for 2023” provides a valuable starting point for your journey. These companies offer a diverse range of coverage options to cater to various needs and preferences.

Whether you prioritize robust medical coverage, non-medical evacuation, and protection for your belongings, or specialized coverage like AD&D or pet-related benefits, you can find a provider on this list that aligns with your priorities.

However, it’s crucial to remember that your specific travel circumstances, such as your destination, activities, and individual health considerations, will play a significant role in determining which travel insurance company and plan are right for you. Always compare quotes and carefully review coverage details to make an informed decision.

Furthermore, the travel landscape can change rapidly, especially in light of unforeseen events like the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, it’s advisable to stay informed and consult with your chosen insurance provider for the latest updates on their policies and offerings.

As you plan your travels, keep in mind that while adventures await, so do unexpected challenges. With the right travel insurance, you can embark on your journeys with confidence, knowing that you have a safety net to rely on. Here’s to safe and memorable travels in September 2023 and beyond!