Travel should become more frequent—not limited—as you enter the golden years of your life. With retirement comes the freedom to pursue your bucket list, and the best travel insurance for seniors ensures you can do so with confidence and peace of mind.
To help you travel safely and worry-free, we’ll guide you through choosing international coverage tailored to your needs, including identifying the right plan and purchasing it easily.
What is Senior Travel Insurance?
Senior travel insurance is specifically designed for travelers aged 65 and older, offering tailored coverage that addresses the unique needs and risks they may encounter while abroad. These policies often include comprehensive benefits such as medical emergency coverage, provisions for pre-existing medical conditions, trip cancellation protection, and lost baggage reimbursement.
Some plans offer higher benefit limits for medical expenses and emergency evacuations, ensuring you have the protection and peace of mind you need during your travels.
What Coverage Do I Need as a Senior Traveler?
Before purchasing travel medical insurance for seniors, consider a health check-up and a review of your current medical conditions. Consider the activities you plan to do and the length of your trip to determine the correct type of coverage.
Some countries offer reciprocal healthcare agreements with others, but the cost and coverage can vary significantly depending on the destination. In most cases, Medicare and similar health plans don’t cover emergency medical care abroad, so travel insurance becomes essential to ensure you receive comparable benefits. Keep these factors in mind when shopping for senior travel insurance.
What Are the Best Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors?
Through research and experience, we have identified the best single-trip travel insurance options for seniors heading abroad. These plans have been carefully categorized by age, citizenship, destination, and budget to help you find the perfect fit.
Our Expert-Recommended Picks:
Single Trip Platinum
Ideal for U.S. seniors traveling who need coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Senior Travel Insurance Plan Daily Rates — Review and Compare
The daily rates table below makes it simple to compare our top three travel insurance plans for seniors, with clear pricing by age group and coverage type.
Daily rates were calculated using a $0 deductible.
These daily rates for senior travel plans were last updated in July 2025.
Annual Travel Insurance Plans for Seniors
Annual or multi-trip travel insurance plans allow you to purchase coverage for 12 months and pay one premium. A yearly plan is typically more affordable if you travel 3 or more times a year.
Multi-Trip Plans for US Citizens and Residents
The BCBS Global Solutions Multi-Trip Platinum plan delivers exceptional coverage at a surprisingly affordable price. While many older travelers face limited benefits abroad, the Multi-Trip Platinum plan offers up to $500,000 in medical coverage, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. It also covers pre-existing conditions for travelers with primary insurance coverage in the U.S., making it one of the most comprehensive options for frequent international trips.
Multi-Trip Platinum Travel Insurance
Up to $500,000 for sickness and accidents
$500,000 medical evacuation benefit
Unlimited Trips Outside the U.S. for trips up to 70 days
The IMG Patriot Multi-Trip plan is a budget-friendly option for older U.S. and non-U.S. citizens and residents who frequently travel to destinations worldwide.
Seniors can choose coverage for trips lasting up to 30, 60, or 90 days, making it a flexible solution for snowbirds, retirees, and globetrotters.
Patriot Multi-Trip Travel Insurance
Annual travel medical coverage
Designed for individuals and dependents
Full year of cover for trips of 30, 60, or 90 days in length
Travel Insurance for US Citizens Over 65 Years Old
If you’re a U.S. citizen over 65 planning an international trip, having the right travel insurance is essential. Many standard policies offer limited benefits for seniors. Still, specialized plans provide the coverage you need, including emergency medical care, evacuation, and protection against pre-existing conditions, allowing you to travel with confidence.
The Best Travel Insurance for US Seniors with Pre-Existing Conditions
We recommend the Single Trip Platinum plan from Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions as one of the best travel insurance options for U.S. seniors. Unlike many insurers that cap benefits at $10,000 or $50,000 for travelers age 65 and older, this plan offers up to $1,000,000 in coverage for individuals aged 65 to 95.
It also stands out for its coverage of pre-existing conditions, available to U.S. citizens with a domestic health plan, including Medicare. While the plan may cost slightly more than other options, the added protection, BCBS Global Solutions’ excellent service, and its global provider network make it a smart and valuable choice for senior travelers.
Single Trip Platinum Travel Insurance
For U.S. citizens and residents up to age 95
Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
GlobeHopper from IMG offers senior travelers excellent benefits and services at an affordable price. U.S. seniors are eligible if they are 65 years or older and actively enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B and a Medigap Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan.
It is ideal for seniors traveling abroad on a holiday or vacation and needing coverage for potential medical expenses incurred outside the U.S.
This senior travel insurance plan includes the following benefits:
Non-Emergency Medical Evacuation
Felonious Battery (where the client is the victim)
Inter-Facility Transportation
Limited to U.S. citizens currently enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B
IMG GlobeHopper Senior
Travel medical coverage for single trips up to 12 months
Designed for Medicare-eligible U.S. travelers age 65+ enrolled in Parts A, B, and a Medigap plan
Provides fast access to care and reimbursement for covered medical expenses
If you’re planning a trip to the U.S., you must choose a travel insurance plan that covers the country’s high medical costs. Since quality healthcare is widely accessible across the U.S., medical evacuation may be less of a concern.
Below are two recommended plans for seniors visiting the United States.
We recommend the Trawick Safe Travels USA plan for visitors to the U.S. who are 65 and older. Seniors aged 65 to 79 can qualify for coverage of up to $100,000, while travelers aged 80 and above are eligible for a maximum limit of $50,000.
This plan also includes coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, with benefits payable up to the policy’s maximum amount. It’s a strong option for senior visitors seeking affordable protection while staying in the U.S.
Safe Travels USA
Designed for non-U.S. citizens traveling to the U.S. and additional countries
Includes comprehensive medical, evacuation, & repatriation coverage
Coverage from 5 days to 364 days – extensions are available
We also recommend the Atlas Travel Medical plan for non-U.S. seniors visiting the United States. This affordable option provides reliable service and offers maximum medical coverage of $50,000 or $100,000 for travelers aged 65 to 79, and $10,000 for those aged 80 and older.
Atlas Travel Insurance
Emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation benefits
Travel Insurance for Seniors Aged 65 to 80+, Excluding the US
Travel insurance plans for seniors traveling outside the U.S. are often more affordable because healthcare costs abroad are lower. However, you may face additional challenges, such as limited access to high-quality care or residing in remote locations.
In these cases, selecting a plan that includes access to top medical providers, emergency evacuation services, and related benefits is essential for maintaining peace of mind while traveling.
Again, the BCBS Global Solutions travel insurance plan is an excellent option for U.S. seniors traveling abroad. It provides emergency services, including medical evacuation, repatriation, and coverage for pre-existing conditions. Considering the additional coverage and exceptional service, this plan is a little more expensive but well worth the cost.
Single Trip Platinum Travel Insurance
For U.S. citizens and residents up to age 95
Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
The IMG Patriot Platinum plan is an excellent option for all seniors seeking medical coverage while traveling abroad.
Patriot Platinum offers a policy maximum of $2,000,000 for seniors up to age 64, $1,000,000 for seniors up to age 69, $100,000 for seniors up to age 79, and $20,000 for seniors aged 80 and above.
Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance
Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest
For seniors aged 70 and older, selecting travel insurance involves a few additional considerations. Your coverage needs may change, often resulting in higher premiums and lower benefit limits.
Review the daily rates table above for detailed pricing and coverage information tailored to your age group.
Planning a cruise? Here’s what you need to know about cruise travel insurance for your next worldwide voyage.
Cruises are a popular way for older adults to travel, combining relaxation and adventure into one unforgettable trip. However, traveling by sea brings unique risks, from onboard medical issues to missed departures due to flight delays.
That’s why seniors should opt for cruise insurance that provides comprehensive protection. A solid plan will safeguard your health and investment in the trip, giving peace of mind throughout the voyage.
When selecting a plan, look for the following key benefits:
Medical Coverage at Sea: Medicare usually doesn’t cover medical expenses abroad or on cruise ships, so seniors should choose a plan with high medical limits. We recommend selecting a plan that offers between $100,000 and $250,000 to ensure you’re protected onboard and in foreign ports.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: Medical evacuations from a cruise ship can be costly, so look for a plan that includes at least $250,000 in evacuation coverage.
Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Protect your prepaid cruise costs with coverage that reimburses you if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to illness, injury, or a family emergency.
Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, we recommend purchasing your travel insurance plan as soon as possible after making your initial trip payment. Most insurers offer a 20-day window for travelers to qualify for a waiver of pre-existing conditions.
Missed Connections and Cruise Delays: Delayed flights or transportation issues can cause you to miss your cruise departure, but a comprehensive travel insurance plan can cover the cost of transportation to the next port and may even reimburse you for missed ports or prepaid shore excursions.
The Best Cruise Insurance Plans for Seniors from the US
The Seven Corners Cruise Insurance plan is an excellent choice for U.S. seniors seeking solid protection for a cruise of 30 days or less. It offers high levels of trip cancellation and interruption coverage, emergency medical care, and evacuation benefits, all key features for older travelers at sea.
What sets this plan apart is its cruise-specific coverage. It includes reimbursement if you miss your ship’s departure due to a delay, and compensation for inconveniences such as missed ports or a cruise being disabled.
Cruise Travel Insurance
Cruise travel insurance for U.S. residents up to age 99 on worldwide trips up to 30 days
Emergency Accident and Sickness Medical coverage up to $250,000
Pre-existing conditions are covered if you purchase the plan within 20 days of your initial trip deposit or payment date.
The Benefits of Overseas Travel Medical Insurance for Seniors
As a senior traveling overseas, you may already have existing health issues or medications that require daily monitoring. If you have travel insurance and get injured or sick while on vacation, your senior travel insurance will cover your medical needs.
Seniors seeking the best Overseas Health Insurance Coverage for their upcoming trip should consider a policy that includes the following benefits:
Emergency Medical Evacuation is crucial for travelers because it ensures that you can be quickly transported to a suitable medical facility in the event of a severe illness or injury. This coverage can be vital in remote or underdeveloped regions where advanced medical care may not be readily available.
Emergency Medical and Hospitalization coverage is essential for travelers as it provides financial protection against unexpected medical expenses, including treatment and hospital stays. This ensures you receive the necessary care without incurring overwhelming costs while abroad.
Lost Baggage coverage compensates for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage, ensuring you can replace essential items and continue your journey without significant financial burden. This coverage offers peace of mind by protecting against the inconvenience and costs associated with baggage mishaps during travel.
Trip Interruption coverage reimburses non-refundable expenses and additional costs incurred if a trip is cut short due to unforeseen events, such as illness, family emergencies, or natural disasters. This coverage helps protect travelers from financial losses and enables them to better manage unexpected situations.
Trip Cancellation coverage is an excellent benefit to have in a policy. It reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses if a trip is canceled due to unforeseen events, such as illness, severe weather, or other emergencies. This coverage helps protect you from significant financial losses.
Please note that Medicare does not cover healthcare services outside the U.S. and its territories. There may be exceptions to this regarding Medicare benefits in Canada and Mexico, but only in certain circumstances.
“Many health plans, including Medicare, will not pay for services received outside the United States. Also, consider purchasing medical evacuation insurance, which will pay for emergency transportation to a hospital.”
Senior trip insurance will provide peace of mind and comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip. Below are our insurance plan recommendations for travelers aged 70 and above, which include trip cancellation benefits and coverage for cruises and international trips.
The Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for Seniors Going Abroad
Trip cancellation coverage offers the same great benefits found in a senior travel insurance plan, along with the additional benefit of covering your travel costs should an unforeseen event force you to cancel your trip.
The Best Trip Insurance Plan for US Seniors Under 85 Traveling Abroad
Pathway Premier
Comprehensive Travel Protection and Travel Medical Insurance
Available to U.S. residents traveling for up to 90 days within the U.S. and internationally
Optional CFAR, IFAR, Rental Car Damage, and Adventure Sports coverage
Many clients ask us, “What is the best travel insurance for seniors?” and “What benefits are included in a senior travel insurance plan?” Since each traveler has unique needs and priorities, we offer a variety of plans to help you find the right fit.
Often, seniors prioritize trip cancellation coverage, while others focus more on medical evacuation or repatriation benefits. The good news is that many plans include all of these features. Since these benefits don’t significantly increase the overall cost, opting out of one to save a small amount isn’t usually the best decision.
We advise clients to get a quality plan with comprehensive coverage for all bases. To help you choose the best travel insurance for seniors, make sure the following benefits are in your policy:
When purchasing travel insurance, seniors often have unique needs that go beyond what basic plans offer. Many companies cover seniors under standard policies, which may not provide adequate protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or pre-existing conditions.
Therefore, it’s essential to compare policies and consider the following factors before applying for a plan to ensure you are getting the coverage you need:
Age Restrictions
Age is a significant factor when choosing travel insurance, as it affects both the plans available and determines your premiums and benefits. As you get older, especially after 60 or 70, insurance costs usually increase, as older individuals are perceived as higher risks for medical issues. Some plans may stop offering coverage beyond a certain age, while others are designed specifically for seniors. Knowing your age bracket is crucial for finding the right plan that suits your needs and budget.
Geographic Restrictions
It is also essential to confirm that your travel insurance covers the countries or regions where you plan to travel. Some policies may offer coverage only in select countries or exclude specific destinations. Be sure to check whether the plan covers your entire itinerary, especially for trips involving multiple countries, so you’re not left unprotected.
Maximum Coverage Limits and Deductibles
Another consideration when buying senior traveler insurance is the policy’s maximum coverage limits and deductibles. Some companies may offer lower coverage limits or higher deductibles based on your health condition. Generally, the higher your risk of needing to claim, the more expensive the insurance. Finding a plan that balances adequate coverage with an affordable deductible tailored to your health and travel needs is crucial.
Understanding the Three Basic Types of Travel Insurance
There are three basic types of travel insurance: emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation insurance, and 24-hour telephone assistance. Each type offers different levels of protection, so it’s essential to understand the differences. When comparing policies, pay close attention to the fine print, including exceptions, exclusions, and the free-look period, to avoid any surprises. Compare plans side by side to find the best option to suit your needs.
Buying senior travel insurance can be time-consuming, but it shouldn’t be stressful.
You can contact us if you have questions needing clarification, and we will gladly guide you.
Our Recommended Single-Trip Plans for Older Travelers
Single Trip Platinum
Ideal for U.S. seniors traveling who need coverage for pre-existing conditions.
The cost of travel insurance for seniors aged 65 to 85+ can vary widely, starting at $8 to $10 per day and ranging from $100 to $500 per trip, depending on the duration of the trip and the level of coverage selected.
Several factors can influence the cost of these plans, including:
Age: Older travelers typically face higher premiums due to age and increased health risks.
Policy Deductible: Choosing a higher deductible can lower the premium, while a lower deductible can increase it. Some plans have set deductibles for older travelers, and options are minimal.
Destination: Traveling to countries with higher healthcare costs can increase the insurance premium.
Trip Duration: Longer trips generally result in higher insurance costs.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Pre-existing conditions may increase the cost or require a waiver for coverage. If your policy includes coverage for your pre-existing condition, your premium will be higher than that of a plan that does not.
Travel Activities: Engaging in high-risk activities like adventure sports can raise your insurance premium.
You should purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip to ensure you are covered for any unexpected events that may occur before departure, such as trip cancellations or changes in health conditions.
Buying insurance early also provides time to review policy details, confirm coverage for pre-existing conditions, and take advantage of any free-look period to make adjustments if needed.
Yes, there is often an age limit for seniors on travel insurance, which can vary depending on the insurance provider and the type of coverage. Some insurers may limit coverage for travelers over a certain age, such as 85 or 90.
It’s important to compare policies and providers to find the best coverage options available for your specific age and health needs.
Medicare generally does not cover healthcare services received while traveling outside the United States, with some rare exceptions for emergencies near U.S. borders or on cruise ships close to U.S. ports.
Therefore, seniors should consider purchasing travel insurance with medical coverage for international trips to ensure adequate protection against unexpected medical expenses.
Yes, you can get travel insurance with a pre-existing condition. Many travel insurance plans offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, but checking the specific terms and conditions is essential.
Some insurers may require you to purchase the policy soon after booking your trip or may have a look-back period for evaluating pre-existing conditions.
Our recommended travel medical plan, Single Trip Platinum, from BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers subscribers coverage for pre-existing conditions. The plan is available to those with primary U.S. insurance and will cover medical treatments for pre-existing conditions. BCBS does not require that insureds have primary insurance at the time of enrollment.
Furthermore, the Trawick Safe Travels USA plan provides limited coverage for an unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition. The maximum benefit amount provided for treatment of a pre-existing condition is $1,000.
Benefits are available for an unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition, subject to the following conditions:
The recurrence must occur spontaneously and without advance warning, either from a doctor or through symptoms, must be of short duration, rapidly progressive, and require urgent medical care.
It must happen at least 48 hours after the effective date of the policy.
Medical treatment must be sought within 24 hours of the recurrence.
Travel insurance is worth it for senior travelers because it provides crucial coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events that could lead to significant financial losses.
Seniors may face higher health risks while traveling, making it essential to have insurance that covers medical expenses and evacuation.
Additionally, many travel insurance policies can accommodate pre-existing conditions, offering further peace of mind.
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
Get free travel medical and trip protection insurance quotes and discover which insurer provides the best benefits for your situation and budget. Listed below are our top recommended travel medical plans.
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