Understanding Your Options
When planning an international trip, it’s important to compare travel insurance options to find the right coverage for your journey. Travel insurance protects you from unexpected events such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip delays, or cancellations, giving you peace of mind while traveling abroad.
Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, you’ll find plans tailored to your unique travel needs. You can also choose a plan based on how often you plan to travel. For example, if you only need coverage for a one-time trip, single-trip travel insurance is ideal. However, if you plan to travel multiple times a year, an annual travel plan may be a more cost-effective option.
By evaluating your travel frequency and coverage needs, you can select the most suitable plan.
Types of Travel Insurance
There are two main types of travel insurance: travel medical insurance and trip cancellation insurance.
Below is an overview of the key benefits of each type of insurance to help you choose the one you need for your trip.
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical plans are designed to cover unexpected medical emergencies while you're abroad.
Key Features of Travel Medical Plans:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation.
- Coverage for accidents or illnesses while traveling.
These plans are an excellent choice if your primary concern is medical protection during your travels.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance covers the non-refundable costs of your trip if you need to cancel for covered reasons, such as illness or severe weather.
Key Features of Trip Cancellation Plans:
- Reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs.
- Trip interruption coverage for delays or early returns.
- Limited emergency medical coverage.
These plans are ideal for travelers looking to protect their financial investment in their trip.
How to Choose the Right Plan
Choosing the right travel insurance can be overwhelming, but understanding the differences between travel medical insurance and trip cancellation insurance is key to making an informed decision.
Once you've determined which type of coverage you need, the next step is to compare plans based on their benefits (what is covered) and exclusions (what is not covered). These details are crucial for understanding the scope of your coverage and should be clearly outlined for your review.
Even if two companies offer similar benefit amounts, a closer look at the exclusions might reveal that one provider excludes specific coverages that the other includes. Therefore, it’s essential to carefully review both the benefits and exclusions to ensure the plan aligns with your needs.
To help you make a fully informed choice, you can request a copy of the policy certificate or plan rules from us.
Our Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Medical Plan
Evaluate Your Coverage Needs
Determine if your trip requires extensive medical benefits or emergency evacuation.
Consider Your Destination
Review plan specifics based on travel regions and associated risks.
Check Pre-Existing Condition Limits
Some plans offer limited coverage for acute onset or require a primary health policy.
Compare Travel Medical Plans
When comparing travel medical plans, it’s important to assess the coverage for emergency medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, along with additional benefits such as coverage for accidents and illnesses during your trip.
Pay attention to the types of medical services covered, such as emergency treatment, doctor visits, and repatriation, as well as any exclusions for pre-existing conditions. Additionally, consider whether the plan offers worldwide coverage or is limited to specific regions, ensuring the plan aligns with your travel destinations and health needs.
Our Recommended Travel Medical Plans
The table below reviews the features of three leading travel medical insurance plans: GeoBlue Voyager Choice compared to WorldTrips Atlas and IMG Patriot Platinum. Each plan offers unique benefits to meet the diverse needs of travelers.
| Benefit |
 GeoBlue Voyager Choice |
 WorldTrips Atlas |
 IMG Patriot Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Coverage Limit | $1,000,000 | $2,000,000 | $8,000,000 |
| Eligibility | U.S. Citizens/Residents | All Citizenships* | All Citizenships** |
| Policy Duration | 7-180 days | 5-364 days | 5-364 days |
| Renewable | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years | |
| Cancelable | |||
| Medical Evacuation & Repatriation | Up to $500,000 | Up to $1,000,000 | Up to $8,000,000 |
| Emergency Dental Care | Up to $500 | Up to $300 | Up to $300 |
| Pre-Existing Conditions | 100% Coverage | Acute Onset Only | Acute Onset Only |
| Baggage Protection | $100 per item, Up to $500 | $50 per item, Up to $1,000 | $50 per item, Up to $500 |
| Trip Cancellation | –– | –– | Optional Add-on |
| Trip Interruption | Up to $1,000 | Up to $10,000 | Optional Add-on |
| Adventure Sports Coverage | Optional Add-on | ||
| 24/7 Global Assistance Services | |||
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*WorldTrips Atlas is not available to individuals physically located in the states of New York, Maryland, or Washington, or the countries of Canada or Australia at the time of purchase.
**IMG Patriot Platinum is not available to individuals physically located in the state of New York.
Have questions? Call 877-758-4881 for help.
Read More: The Best Travel Insurance Companies
FAQs about Comparing Travel Medical Insurance Plans
When comparing travel insurance plans, it’s essential to evaluate several key factors to ensure you select the best coverage for your needs:
Coverage Options and Limits
- Medical Coverage: Check the limits for emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation. Higher limits are recommended for destinations with costly healthcare.
- Adventure or Sports Coverage: If you plan to engage in activities like skiing or scuba diving, ensure the policy includes coverage for adventure sports.
- Additional Benefits: Look for extra coverage options like lost luggage or trip delay benefits.
Exclusions and Limitations
- Examine the list of exclusions to ensure the plan covers your specific needs. Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions (unless a waiver is offered), high-risk activities, and certain destinations.
Policy Cost and Value
- Compare premiums in relation to the coverage offered. A higher-priced plan might include more extensive benefits or fewer exclusions, making it a better value for certain travelers.
Flexibility and Customization
- Look for plans that allow you to customize coverage limits and deductibles based on your budget and specific needs.
By carefully reviewing these factors, you can confidently choose a travel insurance plan that provides comprehensive protection for your journey.
Coverage limits and exclusions vary significantly across travel insurance plans, as seen in the GeoBlue Voyager Choice, WorldTrips Atlas, and IMG Patriot Platinum plans.
Each offers distinct benefits and restrictions, catering to different traveler needs.
GeoBlue Voyager Choice: This plan offers high medical coverage limits, including up to $1,000,000 for emergency medical expenses, making it an excellent choice for U.S. citizens with a primary health plan. It also includes comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.
WorldTrips Atlas: Known for its flexibility, the Atlas plan allows travelers to customize their coverage limits, with options for medical benefits up to $2,000,000. This makes it ideal for travelers seeking scalable coverage, including robust emergency medical evacuation benefits.
IMG Patriot Platinum: This premium plan provides extensive medical coverage up to $8,000,000, high limits for emergency medical evacuation, and acute onset of pre-existing conditions. It’s designed for long-term travelers or those seeking top-tier protection.
The cost of travel insurance premiums varies significantly among insurers and plans, depending on factors such as coverage limits, benefits, and the traveler’s profile (age, trip duration, and destination).
Here’s how the GeoBlue Voyager Choice, WorldTrips Atlas, and IMG Patriot Platinum plans compare in terms of premium costs:
GeoBlue Voyager Choice
- Premium Cost: Typically higher than budget travel insurance options but offers excellent value for U.S. citizens with a primary health plan.
- Why It Costs More: The plan includes robust benefits like pre-existing condition coverage, high medical limits, and seamless integration with U.S.-based healthcare networks.
- Ideal For: U.S. travelers who prioritize comprehensive medical coverage.
WorldTrips Atlas
- Premium Cost: Generally more affordable and highly customizable based on selected coverage limits and deductibles.
- Why It Costs Less: The plan allows travelers to adjust key benefits such as medical limits (up to $2,000,000) and deductibles, offering scalable pricing to fit different budgets. However, optional add-ons like adventure sports coverage or extended trip interruption benefits can increase costs.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers or those seeking flexibility in their coverage.
IMG Patriot Platinum
- Premium Cost: Among the highest in the market, reflecting its extensive coverage and premium benefits.
- Why It Costs More: With coverage limits up to $8,000,000, long-term renewability, and benefits like emergency medical evacuation, acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and trip interruption, this plan caters to travelers seeking maximum protection.
- Ideal For: Long-term travelers, expatriates, or individuals requiring elite coverage with minimal exclusions.
When comparing premium costs, travelers should consider not only the upfront price but also the value offered by each plan in terms of coverage, flexibility, and benefits.
The right plan depends on your budget, trip duration, and personal needs, with each of these plans providing unique advantages for different types of travelers.
Travel insurance is designed to provide critical support during medical emergencies abroad, ensuring travelers receive timely and adequate care without facing overwhelming financial burdens.
Most travel insurance plans include coverage for medical expenses incurred abroad due to unexpected illness or injury.
For severe cases where local medical facilities are inadequate, travel insurance often covers emergency medical evacuation. This benefit ensures transport to the nearest facility.
Moreover, travel insurance providers offer 24/7 emergency assistance services to guide you through the process.
Explore our Comprehensive Travel Insurance Guide
Find everything you need to know about protecting yourself and your trip.
Compare Trip Cancellation Plans
When comparing trip cancellation plans, it's essential to evaluate the coverage offered for both cancellation and interruption and additional benefits like emergency medical expenses and lost luggage protection.
Consider the covered reasons for cancellation, such as illness, natural disasters, or employment-related obligations, and whether you need flexible options like Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage.
Our Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Trip Cancellation Insurance
Assess Your Budget
Determine how much you will spend and what coverage is most important. Trip cancellation plans are typically 4% of your total trip cost.
Understand Covered Reasons
Each plan lists specific covered reasons for cancellation—review these carefully to ensure they align with your needs.
Consider Additional Coverage Options
Optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) offers the most flexibility but will increase the total cost of your plan.
Our Recommended Trip Cancellation Plans
The Trawick Safe Travels Voyager and IMG iTravelInsured LX plans provide a balance of comprehensive coverage, flexibility, and reliability, making them an excellent choice for U.S. citizens and residents.
For travelers of all nationalities seeking a comprehensive, flexible, and adventure-friendly insurance plan, World Nomads Epic is a highly reliable choice that adapts to the diverse needs of global travelers.
Best Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage
Plan Highlights
- Valid for U.S. Citizens and Residents Traveling Domestically or Internationally
- Trip Cancellation and Interruption, Emergency Medical and Evacuation, Baggage Protection
- Pre-existing conditions coverage included on plans purchased within 21 days of deposit
- Optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR)
Best Emergency Medical Coverage
Plan Highlights
- Available to U.S. Citizens and Residents Traveling Internationally
- Comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage
- Extensive Medical Coverage
- Adventure Activities and Exotic Travel Benefits
Best for Adventurous Travelers
Plan Highlights
- Valid for All International Travelers
- Trip Cancellation, Interruption, and Delay Benefits Included
- Adventure Sports and Activities Coverage Included
- Baggage and Sports Gear Cover
Protect Your Journey with Our Top Trip Cancellation Plans
Selecting the right trip cancellation plan is crucial to safeguarding your travel investment and ensuring peace of mind. Unforeseen events, such as illness, family emergencies, or travel disruptions, can lead to costly cancellations or interruptions. A trip cancellation plan helps protect your prepaid, non-refundable expenses, ensuring you won’t lose your investment if the unexpected occurs.
Our recommended plans provide distinct benefits designed to meet various travel needs. With advantages such as high medical coverage limits, Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) options, and protection for adventure activities, these plans provide comprehensive support throughout your journey. Investing in a trip cancellation plan ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected, allowing you to travel confidently.
FAQs about Comparing Trip Cancellation Plans
Trip cancellation insurance is designed to protect your travel investment by reimbursing prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you must cancel your trip due to specific unforeseen circumstances.
Here’s how the Trawick Safe Travels Voyager, IMG iTravelInsured LX, and World Nomads Epic plans address common covered reasons:
1. Illness, Injury, or Death
- All three plans cover cancellations if you, a traveling companion, or an immediate family member falls seriously ill, is injured, or passes away before your trip begins.
- For example, the IMG iTravelInsured LX plan provides extensive coverage for these situations, ensuring you’re reimbursed for trip costs.
2. Natural Disasters
- All three plans cover cancellations due to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, that make your destination uninhabitable.
- The Trawick Safe Travels Voyager plan is particularly strong in this area, offering broad protection for severe weather-related events.
3. Work Obligations
- Unexpected work-related cancellations are commonly covered, such as being required to work or terminated from your job.
- The IMG iTravelInsured LX plan includes specific provisions for job loss or work requirements, making it a reliable choice for professionals.
4. Terrorism
- If a terrorist attack occurs at your destination within a specified timeframe before your trip, all three plans offer cancellation coverage.
- The World Nomads Epic plan, designed for global travelers, includes terrorism coverage, making it a solid option for international trips.
5. Travel Supplier Issues
- You may be reimbursed under certain conditions if your airline or travel supplier ceases operations due to financial insolvency.
- Both the Trawick Safe Travels Voyager and IMG iTravelInsured LX plans cover this scenario, providing peace of mind for those booking with smaller operators.
6. Other Common Reasons
- Military Deployment: All three plans provide coverage if you are unexpectedly called to active duty.
- Quarantine: Plans like Trawick Safe Travels Voyager include cancellations due to being placed under quarantine, such as for COVID-19.
- Legal Obligations: Most plans also cover being required to serve jury duty or be subpoenaed to court.
Additional Flexibility
For broader coverage, all three plans offer Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)* as an optional add-on.
This benefit allows you to cancel for non-covered reasons and receive partial reimbursement (typically 50%-75%), adding flexibility and peace of mind.
*Only available to U.S. citizens
Trip cancellation insurance plans differ primarily in calculating reimbursement for canceled trips, the limits they impose, and optional benefits like Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR).
Here’s how the Trawick Safe Travels Voyager, IMG iTravelInsured LX, and World Nomads Epic plans compare:
Trawick Safe Travels Voyager
- Reimbursement Terms: This policy covers 100% of the insured trip cost for cancellations due to covered reasons, such as illness, severe weather, or family emergencies.
- CFAR Option: Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)* is an optional add-on that reimburses up to 75% of the insured trip cost if you cancel for non-covered reasons.
- Trip Cost Limit: This plan insures up to a maximum trip cost of $100,000, making it suitable for high-value trips.
*Not available to residents of NY or WA
IMG iTravelInsured LX
- Reimbursement Terms: Also covers 100% of the insured trip cost for covered cancellation reasons, such as natural disasters, illness, or job loss.
- CFAR Option: Includes an optional CFAR benefit, reimbursing up to 75% of the insured trip cost for cancellations outside standard covered reasons.
- Trip Cost Limit: The plan does not impose a predefined maximum limit for trip cancellation. Instead, reimbursement is based on the total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs insured when purchasing the policy.
*Not available to residents of NY
World Nomads Epic
- Reimbursement Terms: Covers 100% of the insured trip cost for cancellations due to covered reasons such as illness, natural disasters, or terrorism.
- CFAR Option: This option is available as an optional add-on only for U.S. citizens*. It reimburses up to 75% of the insured trip cost for cancellations not covered under standard terms.
- Trip Cost Limit: Maximum trip cancellation coverage is capped at $15,000, making it more suitable for budget or mid-range travelers.
*Not available to residents of NY
Timing is critical when buying trip cancellation insurance, especially for benefits like Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) and coverage for pre-existing conditions.
You can buy Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) travel insurance within a specific “Time Sensitive Period” after making your initial trip payment.
The Trawick Safe Travels Voyager, IMG iTravelInsured LX, and World Nomads Epic plans each have specific time-sensitive requirements.
Trawick Safe Travels Voyager
- CFAR Add-On: To include Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, you must purchase the policy within 21 days of making your initial trip deposit.
- Pre-Existing Condition Waiver: The pre-existing condition exclusion is waived if the policy is purchased within the same 21-day window and you are medically fit to travel when buying the policy.
IMG iTravelInsured LX
- CFAR Add-On: For Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, the policy must be purchased within 20 days of your initial trip payment or deposit.
- Pre-Existing Condition Waiver: You’re eligible for a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver if you purchase within the same 20-day window and meet the plan’s health requirements.
World Nomads Epic
- CFAR Add-On: Available only to U.S. citizens, the CFAR add-on requires purchasing the policy within 7 days of your initial trip deposit.
- Pre-Existing Condition Coverage: World Nomads provides pre-existing condition coverage for medical emergencies if payment for this plan is received within 7 days.
To access the most comprehensive coverage, including CFAR and pre-existing condition waivers, purchase your trip cancellation insurance as soon as possible after making your initial trip deposit.
Explore our Comprehensive Travel Insurance Guide
Find everything you need to know about protecting yourself and your trip.
About the Author:Mackenzie Manning, Director of User Experience at International Citizens Insurance, specializes in optimizing customer journeys and providing seamless experiences for clients seeking international insurance solutions. With expertise in global health, life, and travel insurance, she helps expatriates and global travelers find the right coverage, ensuring a smooth, informed decision-making process for their international needs.