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Travel Insurance 101

Choosing a travel insurance plan

Since the world of travel insurance is a mystery to most of us, it’s important to know what you’re purchasing and why. It starts by asking the proper set of questions:

ic_circlecheckblue Am I traveling domestically or internationally?
ic_circlecheckblue Is this trip a large financial investment?
ic_circlecheckblue Will I be traveling with family?
ic_circlecheckblue Am I potentially entering a politically unstable country?
ic_circlecheckblue Does the weather tend to be unpredictable at my destination?

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Often referred to as the “package plan” because it offers the most benefits, including extensive medical and travel coverage. Trip Cancellation and Interruption coverage is always included or offered as an add-on. Comprehensive plans are the most commonly purchased type of travel insurance.

Travel Medical Insurance

Not a bad idea for anyone, but Travel Medical is often recommended for those traveling long-term outside your country of citizenship. The primary focus is strong medical coverage, and plans are typically more affordable because of the limited scope of coverage.

Evacuation Insurance

Usually membership-based coverage, meaning you apply for Evacuation coverage over a period of time beyond just a short trip [is this true? I felt “membership-based” required a little explanation]. Note: coverage is solely for evacuation purposes, in the event you need to get out of a location quickly in an emergency — no medical expenses or additional travel are covered.

Accident Insurance

Usually membership-based coverage, meaning you apply for Evacuation coverage over a period of time beyond just a short trip [is this true? I felt “membership-based” required a little explanation]. Note: coverage is solely for evacuation purposes, in the event you need to get out of a location quickly in an emergency — no medical expenses or additional travel are covered.

We hope this information is helpful, but we suggest you visit our Travel Styles section to browse our curated coverage recommendations based on your unique travel profile, or call one of the humans on staff to discuss your needs with a helpful human who knows travel insurance and is eager to help you make the right choice.