Doesn’t my credit card have travel insurance?
No, not in the way most travelers want it to. Credit cards that have ‘travel insurance’ provide little coverage, but nothing in comparison to a separate policy from a travel insurance company. Some cards provide cancellation coverage, but with an annual limit ($1,500-$2,500 per 12-month period), and the list of covered reasons is limited. Interruption coverage is limited as well, as is travel delay coverage. Most importantly though, is that almost no credit cards provide medical expenses or evacuation coverage.
Will my regular health insurance cover me abroad?
Not completely. Most regular health insurance plans provide partial or no coverage while you are traveling in another country. For Medicare, there is never coverage abroad. Countries with ‘universal health care’ might assist with minor needs, but they are under no obligation to do so. In the event of major or ongoing medical expenses, they would cease to help, and they would never pay to evacuate you or help you return home.
Will my cruise line refund me?
A little. It depends on when you cancel, but generally, you won’t get much back. Most cruise companies have a declining refund schedule where they refund less and less the closer to the departure date until they refund nothing at all. Generally, within 2 weeks there is zero refund, and even canceling a month before will usually only get you a 25% refund.
Are hurricanes covered?
Yes, many plans cover hurricanes and weather under trip cancellation coverage. To be covered you need to 1) Make sure it is listed as a covered reason, 2) Buy before the storm is named, 3) Insure for the full trip cost, and 4) Some plans require that you buy soon after your trip payment to avoid the waiting period.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Yes, many plans offer a waiver that removes the pre-existing condition exclusion. To be covered you need to 1) Buy your plan soon after your first trip payment, 2) Insure for the full trip cost, 3) Be medically cleared for travel at the time of purchase.
How much does insurance cost?
Insurance costs 4-8% of the trip cost (pre-paid, non-refundable expenses). Basic plans can be very budget-minded at less than 4%, and premium vacation plans can be over 12%. Travel medical insurance is sold on a trip length basis and can be as little as dollars per day.
When should I purchase my plan?
Within days of making your initial trip deposit. There are many benefits to purchasing the plan sooner, including maximizing the period of cancellation coverage and being eligible for pre-existing condition coverage and hurricane coverage.
“Cancel for any reason” insurance MUST be purchased within 14 days of your initial payment. Other coverages are available after that.
How do I know I can trust the company?
We only use companies that have a good reputation for service and claims, and solid AM Best ratings of financial stability, and they comply with a Zero Complaint Policy.
What is the refund policy?
A 75-100% refund of the premium within the Free Look Period is guaranteed by all companies. This allows travelers to review their policy and return it for any reason within the allowed time period (sometimes less a small administration fee of $5-$8) as long as the traveler has not filed a claim or left on their trip.
Are hurricanes covered?
Travel insurance can be quoted and purchased instantly online on our website by using a credit card. Since travel insurance is a temporary insurance product, there is generally no underwriting period or medical examination required. You can get a quote online, buy with a credit card, print your email confirmation, and you’re all done.
