The Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Traveling opens the door to unforgettable experiences—but it also comes with risks. From canceled flights and lost luggage to unexpected illnesses in foreign countries, things don’t always go as planned. That’s where travel insurance comes in.

In this guide, we’ll break down what travel insurance actually covers, how to choose between independent policies and credit card perks, and how to make sure you’re protected on your next adventure.

Why Travel Insurance Matters

Many travelers don’t realize that their personal health insurance typically doesn’t cover them internationally. Whether you're backpacking through Europe or heading on a cruise, travel insurance can be a safety net for:

• Medical emergencies abroad

• Trip cancellations and delays

• Lost or stolen luggage

• Adventure mishaps …and more.

  
  

Depending on your coverage, it could save you thousands of dollars—and a whole lot of stress.

Two Ways to Get Covered

You generally have two options when it comes to travel insurance:

1. Independent Travel Insurance

These are policies you purchase directly from travel insurance companies. They usually offer more comprehensive coverage, especially for travelers with specific needs like adventure activities or pre-existing conditions.

Common types of coverage include:

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption – Reimburses non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to illness, injury, or unforeseen events.

• Trip Delay & Missed Connections – Covers hotels, meals, and transportation when your trip is delayed beyond your control.

• Emergency Medical & Dental – Covers hospital visits, medications, and sometimes evacuation if you get sick or injured while traveling.

• Lost or Delayed Luggage – Pays for replacing personal items or essentials during a luggage mishap.

• 24/7 Assistance Services – Access to emergency hotlines, travel assistance, and referrals.

• "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) – Offers flexibility to cancel your trip for any reason, with some restrictions.

• Rental Car Coverage – Covers damage or theft of rental vehicles.

• AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) – Financial protection in the event of serious injury or death during your trip.

• Adventure & Sports Coverage – Ideal for thrill-seekers doing activities like skiing, scuba diving, or mountain trekking.

• Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions – Available with certain criteria met (like purchasing shortly after booking).
  

💡 TripSava Tip: Compare plans on Squaremouth to find the best policy for your needs and budget.

2. Travel Insurance from Your Credit Card

Many premium travel credit cards include travel insurance benefits—but these perks only apply if you use that card to pay for your trip. Coverage varies by card, and it's often less comprehensive than standalone policies.

Typical credit card insurance includes:

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption

• Travel Delay

• Luggage Loss or Damage

• Emergency Medical (limited)

• Emergency Evacuation

• Rental Car Damage Waiver

• Travel Accident Insurance

• Purchase Protection – For items lost, damaged, or stolen during your trip.

• Concierge Services – For restaurant bookings, activity planning, and more.

🛑 Heads up: Credit card policies may not cover pre-existing conditions or high-risk activities. Always read the fine print before relying solely on your card’s coverage.

Choosing the Right Policy

Before you buy or rely on a credit card benefit:

• Read the policy thoroughly.

• Check what’s excluded.

• Compare plans for cost vs. coverage.

• Make sure coverage aligns with your trip type (solo, group, adventure, cruise, etc.)

Taking a few extra minutes to find the right coverage could save you major headaches—and money—down the line.

Final Thoughts from TripSava

Travel insurance isn’t the most exciting part of planning a trip—but it’s one of the most important. Whether you're on a weekend getaway or a three-month trek, having the right protection gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on what matters: enjoying your journey.

TripSava recommends checking out tools like Squaremouth to compare providers and tailor your insurance to your travel needs.

Stay smart. Stay protected. Travel free.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore tips, tools, and custom travel features on the TripSava app.