Guide1 min readUpdated
The Essential Guide to Travel Insurance
Don't leave home without it. Learn what travel insurance actually covers, how to read the fine print, and why credit card coverage might not be enough.
Why You Need It
If you break your leg hiking in Switzerland or contract a severe illness in Thailand, your domestic health insurance will likely cover exactly zero dollars. Medical evacuations can cost upwards of $100,000. Travel insurance is non-negotiable for international trips.
Medical vs. Trip Cancellation
Understand the difference between the two main types of coverage:
- Travel Medical Insurance: Covers emergency medical treatments, hospital stays, and medical evacuation. This is the critical part.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Reimburses you if you have to cancel your trip before departure due to a covered reason (e.g., you get sick, jury duty).
The Pre-Existing Condition Trap
Most standard policies exclude pre-existing conditions. If you have a known heart condition and suffer a heart attack abroad, they won't pay. However, many policies offer a "Pre-Existing Condition Waiver" if you buy the insurance within 14 days of your initial trip deposit.
Does My Credit Card Cover Me?
Premium travel credit cards offer decent trip delay and cancellation coverage, but their medical coverage is usually secondary and severely capped (often at just $2,500). Do not rely solely on credit card insurance for major international medical emergencies.