Find the Best Coverage for Your American Adventure
Whatever brings you to America, it’s important to be prepared so that you can enjoy a smooth trip. Here, we have compiled tailored advice on staying safe and healthy, managing immigration security, and why travel insurance for the USA is essential.
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Do I Need Travel Insurance for the USA?
Travel insurance may be required for the USA, depending on your visitor visa type. You are allowed to enter the country without coverage on the business B-1 visa and the tourist B-2 visa.
You are also allowed to visit for short periods without coverage if your country has a visa waiver agreement with the United States. However, some visas, like the student and teacher J-1 exchange visa, require proof of travel health insurance with minimum coverage limits specified by your program sponsor.
If you are from a visa waiver country and do not require a visa to enter the US, you must still complete the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Travel insurance is not required for an ESTA, but it is recommended.
Typical Medical Costs in the USA
The USA has the most expensive healthcare in the world, and since it does not have reciprocal healthcare agreements with other countries, visitors must pay for any necessary healthcare. As such, travel health insurance for the US protects you if you incur medical bills while visiting.
To give you an idea of medical costs in the US, a forearm X-ray costs approximately $100–$300, while surgery to repair a fracture can cost $10,000–$35,000. Similarly, a basic consultation with a doctor can cost $100–$200, while specialists can charge $250–$500.
For peace of mind, it’s essential to have insurance that covers medical costs in America. This is especially essential if you plan to participate in any adventure activities or high-risk sports.
For example, some travelers may choose to play American football, go hunting or skiing, or even participate in activities such as white-water rafting and rock climbing.
Even if you plan a safe trip, you may suffer an allergic reaction or an accident that requires a trip to the emergency room.
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Travel Insurance for Common Risks in the USA
People like to say that everything is bigger in America. It’s certainly true about the food, the beverages, the fun — and the risks of US travel.
Here are some risks specific to the USA to be aware of:
- Crime and Theft: Americans invented Air Tags to track bags for a reason. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, the United States is a riskier destination than Canada, China, and Australia. Vehicle theft rates are high, and luggage theft is a serious concern for travelers. Having a comprehensive policy that covers theft and loss, as well as vehicle cover, can offer peace of mind.
- Expensive Healthcare: Any healthcare in the US quickly becomes expensive. Emergency hospital treatment is especially costly. The cost of treating a broken ankle starts from $7,000, not including medical transport or hospital time, while treatment for a heart attack can cost up to $34,000. Most visitors to the States consider travel health insurance essential to protect them from these costs.
- Snowstorms and Hurricanes: America’s big skies can hold some wild weather. In the East Coast, summer is hurricane season, while snowstorms often delay winter travel in the northern states. Cancellation coverage makes these delays manageable.
- Extreme Heat: Throughout most of the USA, summer temperatures are hotter than those in Europe. And, American deserts have some of the hottest temperatures on Earth. Visitors are often surprised at how quickly heat can affect them, resulting in dehydration and heatstroke – further reasons for comprehensive health insurance.
Read More: Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
What Does United States Travel Insurance Cover and Exclude?
Travel insurance safeguards you against disruptions and expenses during your trip to the US. So, it’s essential to have coverage for both travel incidents and medical needs.
You may find that some policies for the USA include items you don’t typically see when visiting other countries, such as border entry protection (which is rare) and personal liability coverage.
These areas of coverage are often specific to situations in the States and can protect you after an accident or unforeseen problem.
As with most countries, key benefits of a US travel plan should include travel medical coverage in case of illness or injury, emergency medical evacuation to the nearest hospital or back home, and repatriation of remains in the event of death.
In addition, most policies will provide coverage for trip cancellation or interruption to cover non-refundable costs, protection against lost, stolen, or delayed luggage, and travel delays.
However, border entry protection is uncommon and often limited to travelers holding a valid B-2 tourist visa, so make sure to check your policy to confirm this coverage.
For travelers already in the USA, personal liability coverage protects your legal responsibility if you injure someone or damage property. This can be useful if you are involved in a car accident, for example.
Additionally, a comprehensive travel plan for the United States can include benefits that help replace a lost or stolen passport or visa. These can include assistance for delays caused by the loss of your documents. Your specific plan will include details.
Exclusions and Limitations
While travel insurance provides essential protection while visiting the USA, it is important to understand what is not included in policies.
Some protections are excluded from coverage completely, while others are limited or revoked based on your behavior.
As in most countries, most US travel plans will not cover pre-existing medical conditions or non-emergency medical treatments, self-inflicted injuries, or alcohol- and drug-related incidents.
Similarly, injuries from high-risk activities in the States – like American football, ice hockey, skiing, and hunting – are usually not covered.
But it is usually possible to add an adventure sports rider to offer protection if you plan to participate in these activities.
Similarly, your policy will not cover any losses or delays if you break any laws. For the United States, this includes obeying rules at national parks, paying driving and parking fines, and complying with airport security regulations.
Policies also usually have strict limitations on personal liability coverage and delays resulting from incorrect or missing visas.
How Much is Travel Insurance for the USA?
Travel insurance for the USA depends on several factors, including your age, the length of your trip, and the type of coverage you choose.
Other factors that influence the cost include the deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in), co-pays for specific services, the extent of emergency and trip disruption coverage, and any policy exclusions.
Coverage for travel in the United States is often more expensive than for other destinations. That’s because these policies must cover the contingency of America’s high medical costs.
Still, a traveler in their 30s can pay as little as $5 per day, or $75 for a 15-day trip to America, for up to $1 million of comprehensive coverage.
Conversely, a senior traveler – someone over 60, for example – may pay $16.41 a day, or about $250 for a 15-day trip with the same benefits and coverage. Additional coverage for a cruise or for adventure activities can increase the cost of these plans.
It’s a good idea to consider a variety of plans to find one that best fits your budget and coverage needs.
Read More: Compare Travel Insurance Plans
Five Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance for the US
Think big to be sure you have the right visitor insurance for the USA. Use these five guidelines to size your coverage needs.
- Assess Your Health Needs: Ensure the policy covers emergency medical care, any pre-existing conditions you may have, and the high medical costs associated with living in the US.
- Consider Activities: Be honest about any plans you have for extreme sports, adventure travel in national parks, or activities that involve the use of guns. A standard medical insurance plan may not cover these, but an adventure coverage add-on will.
- Trip Length: Tailor your coverage to the duration of your trip. Longer trips may require more comprehensive coverage for extended medical or trip cancellation needs.
- Destination-Specific Risks: Big cities like New York and Los Angeles carry different risks than more remote areas, such as the mountains and deserts. Depending on where you go in the US, you may encounter extreme weather conditions, high crime rates, or even natural disasters, such as storms, floods, tornadoes, and wildfires. Ensure your policy covers potential issues that may arise in the area you’re visiting. And, look for luggage cover based on the value of your travel gear.
- Understand Coverage Limits: Review the policy’s coverage limits to ensure you have sufficient protection and avoid potentially hefty American medical bills. Check the policy’s details for emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and exclusions. Compare quotes from different insurers to find good value and coverage.
The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Visitors to the USA
Below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best travel insurance for America. You’ll be covered for the extras you need, such as personal liability.
Atlas Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
- Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
- Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
- 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance
The Best Medical Insurance for Travel to the USA
Medical insurance for US visitors needs to provide excellent coverage to match the astronomical medical expenses in the United States. These recommended insurers can also guide you through any complex medical billing.
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
Safety Advice and Travel Tips for the United States
Is it safe to travel to the US? It is, though it may be a slightly less so than in the recent past. In fact, the 2025 Global Peace Index ranked the US 128th out of 163 countries in terms of safety.
With this in mind, it’s essential to consider your daily health needs and take precautions to protect yourself during your trip.
Medical Preparation for Travel to the USA
It is worth noting that US citizens who can afford it typically have private health insurance to cover or support their healthcare needs. As of 2025, publicly funded healthcare is minimal and is only available to U.S. citizens.
If you need healthcare of any kind as an international visitor, whether for a routine doctor’s visit or emergency care, you will likely incur significant out-of-pocket expenses. Preparing for your own care with insurance can help keep medical costs lower.
Bring your own medications, along with copies of your prescriptions. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, if you require any treatment sessions, schedule them before you visit the US, if possible.
What Vaccinations Do I Need for Travel to the USA?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “There are no vaccination requirements for visitors to the US, and US residents traveling abroad do not need any vaccines to reenter the United States.”
Still, it may be prudent to have the usual precautionary vaccines, including Hepatitis, Polio, MMR (Mumps, Measles, and Rubella), and Tetanus.
You and anyone traveling with you should also be vaccinated against any current outbreaks, such as the measles outbreak in the US in March 2025. For more information about current US-based infectious disease outbreaks, refer to the CDC’s Current Outbreak List.
How to Bring Medications to the United States
If you’re a non-US citizen, you can bring a 90-day supply of your personal medications to the US. But you should also have a valid prescription or doctor’s note in English.
It’s best to bring your medication in its original containers. Check both the TSA guidelines and the US Customs and Border Protection standards for traveling with medication.
Not all medications are approved for use in the United States. Refer to the DEA list of controlled substances to verify specific items.
Rules for Narcotics or Stimulant Medications in the US
The US strictly controls the use of certain medicines. The full list is laid out in the Controlled Substances Act, which is overseen by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Controlled substances are classified into various categories. Some of these narcotics and stimulants are allowed in the US, but have tight restrictions and rules around their use. These include certain substances that are common medications in other countries, including:
- Oxycodone (Schedule II narcotic)
- Morphine (Schedule II narcotic)
- Codeine (Schedule II narcotic)
- Tramadol (Schedule II narcotic)
- Amphetamine salts (Schedule II stimulant used in Adderall)
- Methylphenidate (Schedule II stimulant used in Ritalin)
If there is a medical necessity for you to have these substances with you, they should be in their original packaging and accompanied by a prescription and a note from your doctor.
Banned and Restricted Substances in the US
As with many other countries, there are a number of drugs and substances that are completely banned in the US. You should not bring these items into the country, even if they are legal in your home country, as you could face severe penalties.
Some of the substances that are banned include:
- MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)
- LSD
- Heroin
- Fentanyl (illegal forms)
- Rohypnol
- GHB
You should also be aware that cannabis is technically illegal under federal US law. However, 49 of the 50 states have legalized it for medicinal use, while 24 states (including New York, California, New Jersey, and Nevada) also allow it recreationally. Still, it is best to be prudent and avoid traveling with or using cannabis while in the US.
How to Access Medical Care in America for Visitors
For a health problem that requires same-day care in the USA, you can visit an urgent care clinic, a doctor’s office, or a pharmacy clinic.
In many states, large pharmacies (often called drugstores) such as CVS or Duane Reade have clinics staffed by nurse practitioners. You can also schedule a telehealth appointment, which is paid for when you book it.
For emergency care, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room. Try to do this only for serious or life-threatening injuries and illnesses. In the US, an emergency room will always accept you as a patient if you need treatment.
However, when you are discharged, they will present you with a big bill. In the state of Pennsylvania, if you are visiting relatives, they may be liable for the bill under Pennsylvania’s Filial Support Law.
US Travel Advisories and Alerts
Check these official government sources for any travel advisories related to the US.
- Government of Canada: United States Travel Advice: Advisory page for Canadians, including information about health and safety, visas, and natural disasters.
- Gov.UK Foreign Travel Advice: Advice for UK citizens that covers information about staying healthy and safe in the US, entry and exit requirements, and practical information for emergencies.
- France Diplomatie: Practical, up-to-date advice for French citizens, including current news, health and safety, and more.
- Smartraveller.gove.au (Australia): Safety and security information for Australian citizens, including health, safety, local laws, and local contacts.
- New Zealand Government SafeTravel: Detailed safety and travel advisories for New Zealand citizens, covering entry processes, terrorism and civil unrest, natural hazards, and regional health advice.
- Gobierno de México Guía de Viaje: Detailed advice for citizens of Mexico, including information about travel, safety, and even mental health.
Read More: A Guide to Travel Advisories, Warnings, and Alerts
Emergency Contact Information for the USA
The United States excels with its emergency contact system. With a little preparation on your side, you can get the help you need when you need it.
In the US, all emergency services use the same number, 911. When you call, you will need to provide information about:
- The location of the emergency
- The type of emergency
- The phone number you are calling from
- Details of the emergency
You will get instructions from the call-taker about your next steps for the emergency.
You can learn more about this service at 911.gov.
Embassies in the USA
Your nation’s embassy may be able to help with lost documents, visa extensions, and more. This list has the main USA embassies for key nationalities among visitors to the United States.
Most of these nations also provide consular services in other American cities.
Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-682-1740
Address: 501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001
British Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-588-6500
Address: 3100 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20008
French Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-944-6000
Address: 4101 Reservoir Rd NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-797-3000
Address: Scott Circle, 1601 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20036
New Zealand Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-328-4800
Address: 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, D.C. 20008
Embassy of Mexico, Washington, D.C.
Phone: 202-728-1600
Address: 1911 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20006
Ten Tips for Safe US Travel
Some visitors to the US want a smooth travel experience, enjoying refined neighborhoods or landmarks like the famous Disney parks. Other travelers seek out wilder edges and urban zones to be where the action happens.
Here’s how to stay safe while enjoying all the excitement of the United States.
1. Be Courteous at Customs
When entering the States, you’ll encounter a range of procedures and staff. Your passports and visas will be checked, and your luggage and person scanned for security.
These checks and scans may be more thorough than in your home country. They may also vary at different locations, depending on security alerts and the available technology.
Stay patient and courteous. You may be asked to provide information about the purpose of your visit, where you are staying, and when you plan to depart.
Consider bringing printouts with these details, such as hotel reservations, to ensure a smooth process. And, always answer honestly. If you are concerned about phone and laptop data, see this article about device security at US Customs in 2025.
2. Guard Your Valuables and Technology
There may be more casual theft in the USA than in your home country. It’s almost a rite of passage for a tourist to have a bag or phone stolen in New York City.
Don’t be that tourist – look after your valuables. This includes carrying bags, wallets, and phones securely and keeping them in your line of sight.
You can keep valuables such as extra cash and your passport in your hotel safe (though you may want to keep a copy of your passport handy). When you’re driving, put your luggage in your car trunk, keep your valuables out of sight, and always lock your car.
3. Follow Alcohol Guidelines
Alcohol consumption is more regulated in the United States than in many parts of the world. Drinking is prohibited for anyone under 21 years old.
It is common for servers to request identification from patrons of any age – even at a concert or basketball game. For the most part, you cannot drink in public areas such as streets and parks.
4. Drive and Park Within the Law
Check the rules and laws around driving in the specific US states you visit, as these can vary. There can be stiff penalties for traffic violations. If you park illegally in a US city, local authorities may tow your rented car, impound it in a lot, or clamp it.
You’ll spend time and money to get on the road again – and your difficulties won’t be covered by travel insurance.
5. Be Street Smart
Urban and remote locations in the US can both be risky. But use your common sense. Avoid dark streets, alleyways, and areas where homeless people are encamped.
Consider doing a quick search of specific neighborhoods to avoid in the cities you’re visiting. Don’t go to strangers’ homes for late-night parties or encounters. And, when you’re in a parking lot, keep your car doors locked until you’re ready to get out.
6. Plan Bathroom Breaks
In cities like New York and Los Angeles, it can be difficult to find a public restroom, and restaurants are not obliged to let non-customers use their facilities.
Use restrooms when you can – most cafes will let you if you purchase a bottle of water – and consider using a restroom-finding app on your phone.
7. Watch for Extremes of Weather
The United States includes nearly every kind of ecosystem. You may need to dress and plan for intense heat or deep winter chill, depending on the time of year and your destination.
Listen to weather warnings and climate advisories for each state you visit. You may need to cancel travel to regions experiencing wildfires or hurricanes – cancellation insurance makes this easier.
8. Prepare for Long Drives
Many visitors to the USA want a classic American road trip. What they don’t realise is that it’s a vast country and road trips can be far longer than you might be used to. Check your drive times before you leave.
You may be on the road for a long time, with few rest stops. Some popular road trips can take you across arid areas or wilderness. Bring extra water, food, and gasoline with you, and let someone know about your travel plans.
Ensure you have comprehensive vehicle insurance to cover any potential accidents.
9. Take Care in the Great Outdoors
Exploring the great outdoors is one of the most popular activities for visitors to the United States. Prepare for outdoor adventures based on the location and climate.
The National Park Service provides safety guides for high-risk locations, such as Death Valley National Park. Double-check that your insurance covers your activities and consult with a park ranger or beach lifeguard to discuss safety precautions.
10. Consider Your Own Personal Security Requirements
The United States has increased its measures to reduce illegal immigration. At times, these measures impact people traveling lawfully. If you are coming from a country that is under immigration scrutiny, ensure that all your visas and travel information are complete.
Monitor your home country’s travel advisories. Consider personal safety contact in both the US and your home country – share your detailed itinerary with them.
Travelers who are concerned about their safety due to their religion, ethnicity, or gender will find valuable resources from the Southern Poverty Law Center and the American Civil Liberties Union.
Protect Your Adventure
Each visitor to the United States has their own unique journey to pursue, whether it’s exploring iconic national parks, discovering Native American culture, or enjoying the energy of cities from New York to Los Angeles.
From savoring pizza in New York, listening to jazz in New Orleans, or experiencing the nightlife in Las Vegas, to making connections at local events, every adventure is different.
Find the Best International Travel Insurance
- Get multiple quotes and coverage options
- Travel Medical, Trip Cancellation & more options available
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
By staying prepared, aware of your surroundings, and taking simple safety precautions, you can navigate challenges confidently and focus on what matters most, creating memorable experiences. With thoughtful planning, your trip can be exciting, safe, and truly unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy travel insurance after booking my flight to the USA?
Yes, you can. Use your departure date as the start date for your insurance, and your date of arrival back in your home country for the finish date.
Is travel insurance mandatory in the United States?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for entry into the US on a tourist visa or for short-term trips with a visa waiver. Travel health insurance may be required for other visas.
What entry requirements do I need to know about for the United States?
Expect to complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). You may also require a visa, unless your country has a visa waiver agreement with the US.
What if I need medical evacuation in the USA?
You may need medical evacuation within the United States if you have an emergency in a remote or rural area. You may also need it to return to your home country. Both are expensive, so check your travel cover for Medical Evacuation Insurance.
Is basic travel insurance coverage enough for the US?
This depends on the particulars of your trip. In general, though, medical expenses can be high in the US, so you’ll want to have good coverage in case of any medical emergencies. And, you’ll want extra coverage if you plan to engage in adventure sports or take a cruise.
Read More
- Health Insurance Plans in North and Central America
- How to Choose a Travel Medical Insurance Plan
- How to Buy Travel Insurance After Departure
- US Health Insurance for Non-Citizens
- Health Insurance for US Expats Living Abroad
Author: Emily Cotlier is a senior editor who made the move from the U.S.A. to New Zealand. For International Insurance, she clarifies international visa and immigration requirements, shares travel resources, and advises on relocation challenges. She’s traveled through five continents and Oceania, and she still loves to travel both in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world.