Chapter 17Travel & Places

Do I need travel insurance?

For any trip where medical care abroad would be expensive — which is most international travel — yes. Medical evacuation alone can run into six figures, and that risk, not lost luggage, is the reason to buy.

Follow-up questions

What does travel insurance actually cover?

Emergency medical care and evacuation, trip cancellation for listed reasons, delays, and baggage. Read the named-perils list rather than assuming.

Does my credit card include travel insurance?

Many premium cards do, but often only if the trip was paid on that card, with lower medical limits and strict activity exclusions.

Are pre-existing conditions covered?

Only if declared, and often only with a medical waiver bought within a short window of the first trip payment.

What isn't covered by travel insurance?

Typically alcohol-related incidents, unlicensed motorbike riding, extreme sports without a rider, and travel against government advisories.

What does credit-card travel insurance cover?

Cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum include trip cancellation, delay, and rental-car CDW when you pay with the card. Medical coverage is usually thin.

Do I need medical evacuation coverage?

For remote destinations or adventure travel, yes — helicopter evacuation can cost $50k+ out of pocket.

Is 'Cancel For Any Reason' worth it?

Adds ~40% to the premium but reimburses 50–75% for any reason. Worth it for expensive trips booked far in advance.

Does insurance cover pandemics now?

Most standard policies still exclude 'known events.' Look for policies that specifically list COVID or 'epidemic coverage.'

People also search

  • best travel insurance
  • does travel insurance cover cancellation
  • ehic ghic card
  • medical evacuation cost
  • annual multi trip insurance
  • credit card travel benefits
  • cfar policy
  • medevac coverage