A Guide to International Travel Insurance: Tried and Tested

Let’s be honest—choosing international travel insurance can feel overwhelming. There are so many options, and it’s hard to know what’s actually worth the money.

I’ve been there, and I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. But over the years, I’ve learned what to look for and what to avoid.

In this guide, I’ll make it easy for you to pick a travel insurance plan that actually works. I’ll break down the key things you need to know, like which coverage matters most, what to watch out for in the fine print, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Plus, I’ll share some of my personal recommendations for travel insurance companies I’ve used and loved.

These are plans that gave me peace of mind while exploring the world—and I think they’ll do the same for you.

Let’s dive in and simplify this process so you can get back to planning your next adventure!

Why Get International Travel Insurance?

Is it necessary? Yes, absolutely.

I’ll admit it—I’ve made the mistake of skipping travel insurance a few times. It’s never worth it.

Sure, you save a little money upfront, but if something goes wrong, you’ll regret not spending those few extra dollars.

And honestly, travel insurance isn’t even that expensive.

One lost suitcase, a delayed flight, or an unexpected injury can cost you way more than the price of a policy.

Plus, having insurance lets you relax and enjoy your trip without constantly worrying about the “what ifs.”

Here are the most important reasons to get travel insurance:

• Lost or delayed luggage: Airlines lose bags more often than you think. Insurance can help replace essentials or even cover the value of your lost items.
• Flight cancellations or delays: Plans change, and sometimes flights get canceled or delayed. Insurance can cover rebooking costs or refunds.
• Medical emergencies: Accidents and illnesses happen—even on vacation. Travel insurance can save you from massive hospital bills, especially abroad.
• Trip cancellations: If something unexpected comes up (like illness or a family emergency), you can get your money back for pre-paid flights, hotels, or tours.
• Peace of mind: This might be the biggest benefit. Knowing you’re covered lets you enjoy your trip without stressing over every potential mishap.

I hope I convinced you! Let’s move on to the next part: how to determine what coverage you actually need.

Must-Haves in International Travel Insurance Policies

Choosing the right international travel insurance can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many companies, each making big promises, and the fine print often tells a different story.

But with a little know-how, you can find a policy that truly has your back.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to look for:

1. Comprehensive Medical Coverage

This is the most important feature of any travel insurance plan. Medical emergencies can get expensive fast, so your policy should cover you for at least $100,000 USD.

Some plans go higher, offering up to $300,000 USD, which is worth considering for peace of mind.

Why this matters:

• Minor issues can turn into major emergencies. You don’t want to be stuck with only partial coverage.
• Full medical coverage ensures your treatment is handled without any nasty financial surprises.

Tip: Don’t skimp on this—it’s not the place to save a few bucks.

2. Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation

If you’re into outdoor adventures or exploring remote areas, this is non-negotiable.

A good policy should cover transportation to the nearest medical facility or even back home if needed.

Key points:

• Check if “repatriation” (transport home) is included—it’s not always standard.
• Look for coverage amounts of at least $300,000 USD for major emergencies.

3. Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Things happen. Flights get canceled, plans change, or emergencies arise. Make sure your policy covers you for non-refundable expenses like flights, hotels, and tours.

Common covered reasons:

• Illness or injury
• Death in the family
• Major emergencies (like natural disasters)

4. Coverage for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Items

Travel can be unpredictable, and losing your luggage or important items can ruin a trip.

A good policy will reimburse you for lost or damaged baggage, documents, or valuables.

What to check:

• Are electronics covered? (Cameras, laptops, phones, etc.)
• Do you need extra coverage for expensive gear?

5. 24/7 Assistance and Support

Look for a policy that offers round-the-clock customer support.

When you’re in a stressful situation abroad, having someone you can call anytime is a lifesaver.

6. Specialized Coverage

Depending on your plans, you might need extras:

• Extreme sports: Activities like skiing, bungee jumping, or ziplining often require additional coverage.
• Car rentals: Make sure your policy includes rental car insurance if you’re planning to drive.
• Electronics: High-value items might need separate or added coverage.

What Isn’t Typically Covered?

Know what your policy doesn’t include so there are no surprises:

• Alcohol- or drug-related incidents
• Reckless or careless behavior (e.g., leaving your bag unattended)
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Lost cash (sometimes jewelry, too)
• Civil unrest in destinations not marked unsafe by your government

When to Buy Your International Travel Insurance

Ideally, get your insurance as soon as you’ve booked your trip. This ensures you’re covered for cancellations or emergencies before your departure.

• Last-minute plans? You can usually buy insurance up until the day you leave.
• Using a credit card? Check if your card offers complimentary travel insurance—it could save you money.

Pro Tip: The sooner you’re insured, the better protected you’ll be. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Once you’ve nailed down the right policy, you can travel with confidence knowing you’re covered for almost anything.

Next up: some of the best travel insurance recommendations based on my own experiences.

International Travel Insurance: My 4 Top Picks

I’ve tried a few options and researched even more about great international travel insurance.

Each of the providers below offers something unique, depending on your needs and travel style. From flexibility to budget-friendly plans, these are my top picks for keeping you covered while you explore the world.

1. Safety Wing – Best For Digital Nomads

If you’re a digital nomad like me, SafetyWing is a lifesaver. It’s one of the few travel insurance providers designed with our lifestyle in mind and it’s the one I’m currently using.

What I love:

• Flexibility: You can purchase a plan even after you’ve started your trip.
• Digital nomad coverage: Their policies work for people constantly on the move.
• New electronics add-on: You can now cover your expensive gear, which is essential for me.
• Affordable plans: Their pricing is reasonable, especially for long-term travelers.

However, a heads-up:

• Claims process: Be prepared to provide lots of proof—save all receipts, medical notes, and bills. Getting reimbursed can take effort.
• Not premium-level coverage: They’re great for nomads but may not be as comprehensive as some premium plans.

Overall, I’d recommend SafetyWing for its flexibility and affordability but know that making claims isn’t always hassle-free.

2. World Nomads Travel Insurance – Best Overall

World Nomads Travel insurance is my personal favorite. Before I went nomadic I always used their coverage and always had great experiences.

If you’re planning a one-off trip and want solid coverage, World Nomads is an excellent choice.

Why it’s great:

• Extensive coverage: They cover a wide range of travel mishaps, from medical emergencies to canceled flights.
• Easy to update: You can adjust your policy online, even mid-trip.
• Reputable: Recommended by Lonely Planet and National Geographic.

Drawbacks:

• Not available everywhere: They stopped covering Denmark and no longer worked for me after I went fully nomadic.
• Higher cost: They aren’t the cheapest, but the coverage justifies the price.

If I were planning a traditional trip, I’d still choose World Nomads for peace of mind.

3. Medjet – Best For Emergencies

The next insurance company I want to mention and recommend is Medjet for residents of the US, Canada, and Mexico.

While I haven’t personally used Medjet, it has an excellent reputation, particularly for American travelers.

What sets them apart:

• Medical transport focus: If you’re injured or sick, they focus on getting you home instead of treating you locally.
• Great reviews: Many travelers swear by them for emergencies.

Keep in mind:

• Limited availability: Medjet is only for residents of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

If you’re eligible and prioritize getting home in an emergency, Medjet could be a great addition to your travel plans.

4. Genki – Best Budget Choice

If you’re looking for a travel insurance option that’s budget-friendly and flexible, Genki is a great contender.

They’re comparable to SafetyWing in many ways and a solid choice for digital nomads or long-term travelers.

What I like about Genki:

• Affordable plans: Their pricing is competitive, making them a great option for travelers on a budget.
• Flexibility: Like SafetyWing, you can purchase coverage while you’re already abroad.
• Simple setup: Their user-friendly platform makes signing up and managing your policy a breeze.

Where they fall short (for me):

• No tech coverage: Unlike SafetyWing’s electronics add-on, Genki doesn’t offer additional coverage for tech gear. Since my laptop and tech gear are my source of income, this is a dealbreaker for me.

If electronics aren’t a big concern for you, Genki is an excellent alternative to SafetyWing.

They’re reliable, affordable, and built for travelers who value flexibility.

International Travel Insurance: Wrapping Up

Remember, health and safety have no price tag, and skimping on international travel insurance is never worth the risk.

I hope this guide helps you feel confident and ready for your next adventure.

Also, a small tip: traveling with an anti-theft purse can save you from a lot of unnecessary headaches.

If you’re curious about which ones I recommend, check out my guide on the Best Anti-Theft Travel Purses for some great options.

Have questions or need advice? Drop a comment below or send me an email. I’d love to hear from you!

//Josephine