Best Travel Insurance for International Trips: Complete 2025 Guide

You're planning an international trip, and you're wondering if you need travel insurance. The short answer? For international travel, travel insurance isn't just recommended—it's often essential. Medical emergencies abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and your domestic health insurance likely won't cover you outside your home country.

Travel insurance protects you from the unexpected: medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, travel delays, and more. But with dozens of providers offering different coverage levels and prices, choosing the right policy can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to look for, compare the best providers, and find the right coverage for your international trip.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for International Trips

Travel insurance becomes especially important for international trips because you're far from home, potentially in countries with different healthcare systems, languages, and legal frameworks. A medical emergency in a foreign country can be both medically and financially devastating without proper coverage.

According to the U.S. Department of State, medical evacuation from a foreign country can cost $50,000 to $100,000 or more [1]. A simple hospital stay abroad can easily cost thousands of dollars per day. Your domestic health insurance, including Medicare, typically doesn't cover medical expenses outside the United States, leaving you responsible for the full cost.

Beyond medical emergencies, international travel insurance protects your financial investment in your trip. If you need to cancel due to illness, family emergency, or other covered reasons, travel insurance can reimburse your non-refundable expenses. This is especially valuable for expensive international trips where flights, hotels, and tours may cost thousands of dollars.

Travel delays, lost luggage, and other travel disruptions are also more complicated when you're abroad. Travel insurance provides assistance services that can help you navigate these situations in foreign countries, often with multilingual support and local knowledge.

Understanding Travel Insurance Coverage Types

Travel insurance policies typically include several types of coverage, each protecting different aspects of your trip. Understanding what each type covers helps you choose the right policy and know what to expect when you need to file a claim.

Medical Emergency Coverage

Medical emergency coverage is the most critical component of international travel insurance. This coverage pays for medical expenses if you become ill or injured during your trip. For international travel, you should look for policies with at least $100,000 in medical coverage, though $250,000 or more is preferable for comprehensive protection.

This coverage typically includes hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription medications, and emergency medical treatment. Some policies also cover pre-existing medical conditions if you purchase the policy within a specified time frame after booking your trip and meet certain conditions.

Emergency Medical Evacuation

Emergency medical evacuation coverage pays for transportation to an appropriate medical facility if you become seriously ill or injured and local medical care is inadequate. This can include air ambulance services, medical escort services, and transportation back to your home country if medically necessary.

Medical evacuation is expensive—often $50,000 to $100,000 or more—making this coverage essential for international travel. Even if you're traveling to countries with good medical facilities, evacuation may be necessary if you need specialized care or want to return home for treatment.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for non-refundable trip expenses if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason, such as illness, injury, death of a family member, natural disasters, or other specified events. Trip interruption coverage provides similar protection if you need to cut your trip short and return home early.

Coverage limits typically match your total trip cost, up to the policy maximum. This coverage is especially valuable for expensive international trips where cancellation could mean losing thousands of dollars in non-refundable deposits and payments.

Baggage Loss and Delay

Baggage loss coverage reimburses you if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. Coverage limits vary by policy, typically ranging from $500 to $3,000 or more. Some policies also cover delayed baggage, reimbursing you for essential items you need to purchase while waiting for your luggage to arrive.

For international travel, baggage issues can be particularly problematic since you may be far from home and need to replace essential items immediately. Higher coverage limits are often worth the additional cost for international trips.

Travel Delay Coverage

Travel delay coverage reimburses you for additional expenses if your trip is delayed due to covered reasons, such as weather, mechanical issues, or airline strikes. This typically includes hotel accommodations, meals, and transportation expenses incurred due to the delay.

Coverage usually requires a minimum delay period (often 6-12 hours) before benefits kick in. This coverage can be valuable for international travel where delays might mean unexpected overnight stays in foreign cities.

Best Travel Insurance Providers for International Trips

After researching current policies, coverage options, and customer reviews, here are the best travel insurance providers for international trips in 2025:

1. Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz is one of the largest and most established travel insurance providers, offering comprehensive coverage and reliable customer service. Their policies are well-suited for international travel, with strong medical coverage and emergency assistance services.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive medical coverage up to $250,000
• Emergency medical evacuation included
• 24/7 travel assistance hotline
• Coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, and delays
• Baggage loss and delay coverage
• Optional cancel-for-any-reason coverage

Best Plans:

• Allianz Travel Basic - Essential coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Allianz Travel Classic - Comprehensive coverage with higher limits
• Allianz Travel Premier - Premium coverage with maximum benefits

Cost: Typically $50-200+ per trip, depending on trip cost, age, and coverage level

Best For: Travelers seeking reliable, comprehensive coverage from an established provider

Pros:

• Large, established provider with strong financial backing
• Comprehensive coverage options
• 24/7 assistance available worldwide
• Reliable claims process
• Good coverage for international travel

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than some competitors
• Some exclusions apply (read policy carefully)
• Pre-existing condition coverage requires timely purchase

2. World Nomads

World Nomads is popular with adventurous travelers and digital nomads, offering flexible coverage designed for various travel styles, including international trips, adventure activities, and long-term travel.

Key Features:

• Adventure sports coverage available
• Flexible plans for various travel styles
• Good for long-term and multi-trip travel
• Digital nomad-friendly options
• Easy online purchase and claims process
• Coverage for 150+ countries

Best Plans:

• Standard Plan - Basic coverage for most travelers
• Explorer Plan - Comprehensive coverage including adventure activities

Cost: Typically $50-200+ per trip, varies by trip cost, duration, and coverage level

Best For: Adventure travelers, long-term travelers, digital nomads, and those planning activities not covered by standard policies

Pros:

• Excellent coverage for adventure activities
• Flexible for long trips and multiple destinations
• Easy online purchase and management
• Good for adventurous travelers
• Digital nomad-friendly

Cons:

• May not cover all activities (check policy details)
• Some limitations on coverage duration
• Pre-existing condition coverage may be limited

3. Travel Guard

Travel Guard, part of AIG, offers comprehensive travel insurance with good customer service and various plan options suitable for international travel.

Key Features:

• Comprehensive medical and evacuation coverage
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection
• 24/7 travel assistance services
• Various plan options to match different needs
• Good coverage for international destinations
• Optional upgrades available

Best Plans:

• Essential Plan - Basic coverage for budget travelers
• Deluxe Plan - Comprehensive coverage with higher limits
• Premium Plan - Maximum coverage with premium benefits

Cost: Typically $50-200+ per trip, depending on trip cost and coverage level

Best For: Travelers seeking comprehensive protection with good customer service

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage options
• Reliable provider with strong backing
• 24/7 assistance available
• Various plans to match different needs
• Good international coverage

Cons:

• Can be expensive for comprehensive coverage
• Some exclusions apply
• Pre-existing condition coverage requires timely purchase

4. Seven Corners

Seven Corners specializes in international travel insurance, offering good coverage options especially suited for international travel and medical emergencies abroad.

Key Features:

• Strong international medical coverage
• Emergency medical evacuation included
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection
• Various plan options
• Good coverage for international destinations
• 24/7 assistance services

Best Plans:

• RoundTrip Basic - Essential coverage for international trips
• RoundTrip Choice - Comprehensive coverage with higher limits
• RoundTrip Elite - Premium coverage with maximum benefits

Cost: Typically $50-200+ per trip, varies by trip cost and coverage level

Best For: International travelers seeking specialized coverage for overseas trips

Pros:

• Specialized in international travel insurance
• Strong medical emergency coverage
• Good value for international travel
• Various plans available
• Good customer service

Cons:

• Less well-known than some competitors
• Some coverage limitations may apply
• Pre-existing condition coverage requires timely purchase

5. Credit Card Travel Insurance

Many premium credit cards include travel insurance as a benefit, providing coverage at no additional cost when you use the card to book your trip. This can be an excellent value, though coverage may be more limited than standalone policies.

Key Features:

• Included with credit card (no additional cost)
• Automatic coverage when booking with card
• Various benefits depending on card
• May include trip cancellation, medical, and baggage coverage

Best Cards:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve - Comprehensive travel insurance benefits
• Chase Sapphire Preferred - Good travel insurance coverage
• American Express Platinum - Travel insurance and assistance services
• Capital One Venture X - Travel insurance benefits included

Cost: $0 (included with credit card annual fee)

Best For: Cardholders who want automatic coverage without purchasing separate insurance

Pros:

• Free with credit card
• Automatic coverage
• No additional purchase needed
• Convenient and easy to use
• Good value if you already have the card

Cons:

• Coverage may be more limited than standalone policies
• May not cover all situations
• Must use card to book trip for coverage to apply
• Check specific terms and coverage limits

Comparison Table: Top Travel Insurance Providers

Provider	Medical Coverage	Evacuation	Trip Cancellation	Best For	Cost Range
Allianz Travel	Up to $250,000	Included	Up to trip cost	Comprehensive coverage	$50-200+
World Nomads	Up to $100,000	Included	Up to trip cost	Adventure travel	$50-200+
Travel Guard	Up to $250,000	Included	Up to trip cost	Reliable protection	$50-200+
Seven Corners	Up to $500,000	Included	Up to trip cost	International travel	$50-200+
Credit Cards	Varies by card	Varies	Varies	Cardholders	$0 (with card)

Note: Coverage limits and costs vary by trip cost, traveler age, destination, and coverage level. Always check current policy details.

What to Look For in International Travel Insurance

When choosing travel insurance for international trips, certain features are especially important. Here's what to prioritize:

Essential Coverage Requirements

1. Medical Emergency Coverage

• Minimum $100,000 coverage (preferably $250,000+)
• Coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, and medications
• Coverage in your destination countries
• Pre-existing condition coverage if applicable

2. Emergency Medical Evacuation

• Coverage of at least $250,000 (preferably $500,000+)
• Transportation to appropriate medical facilities
• Repatriation to home country if medically necessary
• 24/7 emergency assistance services

3. Trip Cancellation/Interruption

• Coverage matching your total trip cost
• Reasonable cancellation reasons covered
• Trip interruption coverage included
• Adequate coverage limits

4. Travel Assistance Services

• 24/7 multilingual assistance hotline
• Help with medical referrals and arrangements
• Assistance with lost documents
• Help navigating foreign healthcare systems

Important Policy Features

1. Coverage Area

• Verify coverage in your destination countries
• Some policies exclude certain countries or regions
• Check for any travel advisories that might affect coverage

2. Pre-Existing Conditions

• Understand coverage limitations
• May require purchase within specified time frame
• May require medical screening or additional premium
• Check specific terms carefully

3. Adventure Activities

• Standard policies may exclude adventure activities
• May need additional coverage for activities like skiing, scuba diving, etc.
• World Nomads and specialized providers offer better adventure coverage

4. Coverage Duration

• Ensure policy covers your entire trip duration
• Some policies have maximum trip length limits
• Long-term travel may require specialized policies

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance

Choosing the right travel insurance involves assessing your needs, comparing options, and understanding what coverage you actually need. Here's a step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Consider your specific situation:

• Trip cost - Higher trip costs require higher cancellation coverage
• Destination - Some countries have higher medical costs or risks
• Activities planned - Adventure activities may need special coverage
• Health considerations - Pre-existing conditions need appropriate coverage
• Existing coverage - Check what your credit cards or other insurance already covers

Step 2: Compare Coverage

Compare policies based on:

• Medical coverage limits and terms
• Emergency evacuation coverage
• Trip cancellation coverage limits
• Deductibles and coverage exclusions
• Coverage limits for baggage and delays
• Assistance services available

Step 3: Compare Costs

Compare costs considering:

• Premium costs vs. coverage value
• Deductibles and out-of-pocket costs
• Cost vs. benefits provided
• Value of included assistance services
• Total cost of ownership

Step 4: Read the Fine Print

Carefully review:

• Coverage exclusions and limitations
• Coverage limits and deductibles
• Claim process and requirements
• Terms and conditions
• Pre-existing condition terms
• Adventure activity exclusions

Cost Factors for Travel Insurance

Several factors affect the cost of travel insurance:

1. Trip Cost

Higher trip costs typically result in higher premiums, especially for trip cancellation coverage. Insurance companies calculate premiums as a percentage of your total trip cost, usually ranging from 4% to 10% depending on coverage level and other factors.

2. Traveler Age

Older travelers typically pay more for travel insurance due to higher medical risk. Age-based pricing varies by provider, with significant increases often starting around age 60-65.

3. Destination

Some destinations cost more to insure due to higher medical costs, political risks, or other factors. Travel to developed countries with good healthcare systems typically costs less than travel to developing countries or regions with higher risks.

4. Coverage Level

More comprehensive coverage costs more. Basic policies with lower coverage limits cost less, while comprehensive policies with high limits and additional benefits cost more.

5. Trip Duration

Longer trips typically cost more to insure. Some policies charge per day, while others have flat rates for trip duration ranges.

Tips for Getting the Best Value

1. Check Credit Card Coverage First

Many premium credit cards include travel insurance when you use the card to book your trip. Review your credit card benefits to see what's already covered, then supplement with additional insurance only if needed. This can significantly reduce your insurance costs.

2. Compare Multiple Providers

Get quotes from multiple providers and compare coverage and costs. Don't just choose the cheapest option—consider the coverage value and provider reputation. Use comparison websites and read reviews to make informed decisions.

3. Buy Early

Purchase travel insurance when you book your trip. Early purchase may provide better rates, ensures coverage starts earlier, and may be required for pre-existing condition coverage. It also gives you more time to review and understand your policy.

4. Understand Exclusions

Read exclusions carefully so you know what's not covered. Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions (unless covered), adventure activities, alcohol-related incidents, and travel to countries under travel advisories. Consider additional coverage if you need protection for excluded situations.

5. Consider Annual Policies

If you travel frequently (three or more trips per year), an annual travel insurance policy may be more cost-effective than purchasing separate policies for each trip. Annual policies cover all trips within a year, up to specified trip length limits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Not Reading the Fine Print

Problem: Don't understand what's covered and what's not

Solution: Read the policy terms carefully, understand exclusions, and ask questions if anything is unclear. Know what you're buying before you need to use it.

Mistake 2: Choosing Based on Price Only

Problem: Cheapest policy may not provide adequate coverage

Solution: Compare coverage value, not just price. Ensure the policy provides adequate protection for your needs, especially medical coverage for international travel.

Mistake 3: Assuming Credit Card Coverage Is Enough

Problem: Credit card coverage may be limited or have gaps

Solution: Review your credit card benefits carefully, understand limitations, and supplement with additional insurance if needed. Credit card insurance is valuable but may not be sufficient for all situations.

Mistake 4: Not Declaring Pre-Existing Conditions

Problem: Claims may be denied if conditions aren't properly declared

Solution: Declare all pre-existing conditions when purchasing, get proper coverage, and understand terms. Failure to declare conditions can result in denied claims.

Mistake 5: Waiting Too Long to Buy

Problem: May miss coverage windows or pay higher rates

Solution: Purchase insurance when you book your trip. Early purchase ensures coverage, may provide better rates, and is often required for pre-existing condition coverage.

The Bottom Line

Travel insurance for international trips is essential protection that can save you from financial disaster in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or other travel disruptions. The best policy for you depends on your trip cost, destination, activities, health considerations, and existing coverage.

Start by checking your credit card benefits—many premium cards include travel insurance that may meet your needs. If you need additional coverage, compare policies from reputable providers like Allianz, World Nomads, Travel Guard, or Seven Corners. Choose based on coverage value, not just price, and ensure the policy provides adequate protection for your specific international trip.

The best travel insurance is the one that provides adequate coverage for your specific trip at a reasonable cost. Don't skimp on coverage, especially for medical emergencies and trip cancellation, as these are the most common and costly claims for international travel.

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Last Verified: November 20, 2025
Last Updated: November 20, 2025

References:
[1] U.S. Department of State. "Your Health Abroad." Bureau of Consular Affairs. Last updated October 2025. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/your-health-abroad.html

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Traveler's Health: Insurance." Last updated September 2025. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance

[3] Allianz Travel Insurance. "Travel Insurance Plans." Last updated November 2025. https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com

[4] World Nomads. "Travel Insurance Coverage." Last updated November 2025. https://www.worldnomads.com

[5] Travel Guard. "Travel Insurance Plans." Last updated November 2025. https://www.travelguard.com