Real Story: The ,000 Hospital Bill
"I broke my leg skiing in Switzerland. No big deal, I thought — until I got the hospital bill: ,000. My regular health insurance covered almost nothing abroad. Thankfully, I had bought travel insurance for . They paid the entire bill, flew me home business class with a medical escort, and even reimbursed my unused lift tickets. Best I ever spent."
— David L., Boston MA | Saved: ,000+
When Travel Insurance is ABSOLUTELY Worth It
International Trips
Your US health insurance likely won't cover you abroad. Emergency medical evacuation alone can cost ,000+.
Expensive Non-Refundable Bookings
If your trip costs over ,000 and isn't refundable, insurance at ~5% of trip cost is smart protection.
Adventure Activities
Skiing, scuba, hiking? Standard policies often exclude these. Get an adventure rider.
Traveling with Elderly Family
Pre-existing condition waivers and trip interruption coverage can save thousands.
When You Can Skip It
Short Domestic Trips
Weekend getaway to Vegas? Your credit card protections probably cover you.
Fully Refundable Tickets
If you can get your money back anyway, cancellation insurance is redundant.
The Simple Rule
If your trip costs more than you'd be comfortable losing as cash, get insurance. For most people, that threshold is around ,000-,000. Cost: 4-8% of trip value.
?? Last Updated: December 2025
The Quick Answer
? YES, Worth It If:
- Trip costs over $3,000
- International destination
- Non-refundable bookings
- Pre-existing health conditions
- Adventure activities planned
? Probably Skip If:
- Short domestic trip
- Cheap refundable tickets
- Credit card has coverage
- Trip under $500
- Traveling to familiar places
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
- Trip Cancellation: Get money back if you can't go
- Medical Emergencies: Hospital bills abroad (critical!)
- Lost Baggage: Reimbursement for lost items
- Flight Delays: Hotel and meal costs
- Emergency Evacuation: Medical transport home
Pro Tip
Check your credit card benefits first! Many premium cards include travel insurance. Call 1 (844) 656-7300 and we'll help you understand what coverage you already have.
Average Costs
| Trip Cost | Insurance Cost |
|---|---|
| $1,000 | $50-100 |
| $5,000 | $150-300 |
| $10,000 | $300-500 |
Questions About Your Trip?
We give honest advice - not just try to sell you something.
Call: 1 (844) 656-7300