Travel insurance helps protect your trip, your finances, and your peace of mind when unexpected events occur. But many travelers purchase a policy without understanding what it actually covers—or what questions they should ask beforehand. The right travel insurance policy can save you thousands of dollars, while the wrong one can leave major gaps in protection.
Use this guide to learn the essential questions to ask before buying travel insurance and why each one matters.
1. What Does the Policy Cover?
Travel insurance policies vary widely, so always start by asking what’s included.
Common coverage types include:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Emergency medical coverage
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Baggage loss or delay
- Travel delay
- Missed connections
- 24/7 travel assistance services
Ask the insurer or provider to clearly outline each coverage and its limits so you understand exactly what you’re paying for.
2. What Are the Covered Reasons for Trip Cancellation?
Trip cancellation isn’t unlimited—you can only cancel for reasons listed in the policy.
Ask:
- Which cancellation reasons are covered?
- Are illness, injury, or family emergencies included?
- What about weather-related cancellations?
- Am I covered if my airline shuts down?
Policies differ on what qualifies as a valid cancellation reason, so review this section closely.
3. Does the Plan Include “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) Coverage?
CFAR coverage offers the most flexibility, allowing you to cancel a trip for reasons not listed in the base policy.
Ask:
- Is CFAR available as an add-on?
- What percentage of my trip cost will be refunded (typically 50%–75%)?
- What are the time limits for purchasing CFAR?
- Are there deadlines for canceling?
CFAR coverage costs more but provides maximum freedom and peace of mind.
4. What Medical Coverage Is Included?
Many travelers mistakenly assume their domestic health insurance works abroad. Often, it does not.
Ask:
- What is the maximum medical coverage amount?
- Are pre-existing medical conditions covered or excluded?
- Does the plan cover doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions?
- Are adventure activities (like skiing or diving) included or excluded?
Medical coverage is one of the most important parts of your travel insurance policy.
5. What About Emergency Medical Evacuation?
Medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars—sometimes more.
Ask:
- What is the maximum evacuation benefit?
- Does the insurer decide where I’ll be transported?
- Am I covered for evacuation back home or only to the nearest hospital?
- Are rescue operations included?
Strong evacuation coverage is critical, especially when traveling internationally or to remote destinations.
6. What Does the Baggage Coverage Include?
Baggage protection helps reimburse you for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
Ask:
- What is the maximum baggage benefit?
- Are there per-item limits?
- Are electronics, jewelry, or cameras covered fully or partially?
- What documentation is required for a claim?
This helps ensure your belongings are properly protected.
7. What Does Baggage Delay Coverage Include?
Baggage delay coverage reimburses you for essential items if your luggage is delayed.
Ask:
- How many hours must my baggage be delayed before coverage begins?
- What items are reimbursable?
- What is the maximum benefit?
Knowing this helps you avoid surprises during long layovers or lost-luggage scenarios.
8. What Are the Trip Delay Benefits?
Delays are common, and travel insurance often helps with meals, hotels, and transportation.
Ask:
- What is the minimum delay time required for benefits to begin?
- What expenses are covered?
- What are the daily and total maximum benefits?
Trip delay coverage can save you significant money during unexpected disruptions.
9. Are Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Covered?
Pre-existing condition rules vary widely.
Ask:
- What is considered a pre-existing condition?
- Is a waiver available?
- Do I need to purchase the policy within a certain timeframe to qualify?
- How far back does the look-back period extend?
Understanding this prevents denied medical claims later.
10. Are Adventure or Sports Activities Covered?
Many travelers participate in activities like skiing, scuba diving, zip-lining, or hiking.
Ask:
- Which activities are included?
- Are adventure sports excluded by default?
- Can I purchase a sports or adventure add-on?
This is essential if your trip includes any higher-risk activities.
11. What Is the Claims Process?
A smooth claims process can make all the difference during stressful moments.
Ask:
- How do I file a claim?
- What documentation is required?
- How long does reimbursement typically take?
- Is support available 24/7?
Knowing this upfront helps you stay prepared.
12. What Are the Exclusions?
Every policy has exclusions, and they vary between insurers.
Ask:
- Are pandemics or epidemics covered?
- Are strikes or civil unrest included or excluded?
- Are injuries from alcohol or drugs excluded?
- Are there exclusions for pregnancy or high-risk activities?
Understanding exclusions ensures you aren’t left unprotected.
13. What Is the Cost—and What Affects It?
Trip insurance costs depend on several factors.
Ask:
- How is my premium calculated?
- Does age significantly change the cost?
- Are nonrefundable trip costs fully covered?
- Do optional add-ons increase the price?
This helps you compare policies effectively.
14. Does the Policy Include 24/7 Travel Assistance?
Most quality travel insurance plans include assistance to help with emergencies.
Ask:
- What services are included?
- Does the plan offer help with medical referrals, lost passports, or evacuations?
- Can they assist with rebooking flights or accommodations?
Travel assistance can be invaluable during disruptions abroad.
Final Thoughts
Buying travel insurance isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about choosing protection that matches your trip, risk level, and comfort. By asking the right questions before purchasing, you can avoid gaps in coverage, prevent unexpected expenses, and ensure your trip is protected from start to finish.
Smart travelers don’t just buy travel insurance—they ask the right questions first.