Whether you're heading out on a group trip or solo adventure, travel insurance is a must-have for peace of mind. From trip cancellations and medical emergencies to delays that disrupt your plans, travel insurance ensures you're prepared for the unexpected.
Like most group travel companies, to ensure a worry-free journey, we require all travelers to purchase travel insurance for their trip. Don’t know where to start? We’ve broken down everything you need to know about choosing the best travel insurance for your next adventure.
Why Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is your safety net for those "what if" moments that could otherwise derail your trip. It’s not just for major emergencies—it also covers common disruptions like weather-related cancellations, illness or injury, and unexpected family emergencies.
Think of it as investing a little upfront to avoid big headaches later.
When Should I Purchase Travel Insurance?
Deciding when to buy travel insurance really comes down to how comfortable you are with risk. We recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as you book your trip as you’ll be better covered for any unexpected changes or disruptions.
Many policies have coverage for “pre-existing conditions” if purchased within a set timeframe after your initial booking (usually 10–14 days). Buying early also ensures you’re covered for unexpected issues that arise before your departure.
If you’re considering Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, keep in mind that it’s typically only available within 10 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit. Unlike standard travel insurance, CFAR allows you to cancel for reasons that aren’t typically covered—such as a mental health or family-related crisis—and still get partial reimbursement. If you prefer to have extra peace of mind, CFAR might be a good option for you!
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance for You
Travel insurance is an essential part of planning any trip. Whether you're embarking on a solo weekend getaway or an international group adventure, having the right travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. But with so many options out there, how do you know which plan is the best for you?
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing travel insurance:
Type of Trip: Consider the nature of your trip. Are you taking a quick weekend getaway, a long international holiday, or a physically active excursion? The type of trip you’re going on will influence the level of coverage you need. Longer trips or those involving high-risk activities will require more robust coverage.
Destination: Your destination plays a crucial role in determining your insurance needs. Some countries, especially those with high medical costs or specific entry requirements, may need specialized coverage. Research whether the country you're visiting requires specific travel insurance or if your plan will cover local medical needs and emergencies. Countries with limited healthcare access may require more comprehensive medical coverage and evacuation options.
Activities: If your trip includes activities such as hiking, skiing, scuba diving, or other adventure sports, it’s essential to select a policy that covers injury-risked activities. Not all standard travel insurance plans will cover these, so make sure the policy you choose offers protection for any risky endeavors you’re planning.
Coverage Offerings to Consider:
Trip Cancellation & Interruption: This feature covers the costs of prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to unforeseen events, like illness or a family emergency. A good trip cancellation and interruption policy should also compensate you for additional expenses, such as accommodation and meals, if your flight is delayed.
Medical Coverage & Evacuation: If your existing health insurance doesn’t apply abroad, medical coverage is crucial. This feature covers emergency medical treatment in case of illness or injury while traveling. It’s particularly important for trips to remote destinations with limited healthcare facilities. Medical evacuation is also essential, as it ensures you’re transported to the nearest appropriate medical facility in case of a serious condition. Look for a plan that includes 24/7 emergency support for urgent situations.
Lost Baggage & Personal Items: Losing your luggage or having personal items stolen can derail your trip. Travel insurance can reimburse you for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items such as electronics, cameras, or luggage. Make sure to check the policy’s limits on high-value items like cameras or laptops, as many plans have coverage caps for expensive gear.
Top Travel Insurance Providers for Group Trips
If you’re unsure where to start, here are some top recommendations for travel insurance providers:
World Nomads: Ideal for adventure travelers, World Nomads offers comprehensive coverage that includes a wide range of activities such as scuba diving, hiking, and skiing. In addition to strong medical and evacuation benefits, World Nomads is flexible, allowing you to extend your coverage while you're already traveling, making it an excellent choice for long-term or active travelers.
Travel Guard: Travel Guard stands out for its customizable plans. You can tailor coverage to fit your specific needs and budget. They provide excellent trip cancellation, interruption, and delay benefits, along with 24/7 assistance services. This makes Travel Guard a great choice for those who want flexibility and reliable support throughout their travels.
John Hancock: Known for offering higher coverage limits, John Hancock is perfect for those looking for premium protection. With strong coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellations, this plan is ideal for longer or more expensive trips, where high coverage limits and reliable support are critical.
Tin Leg: Highly regarded for its affordable policies with robust medical coverage. It’s a great option for travelers who prioritize medical benefits but also want solid trip cancellation and interruption protection.
Trawick International: Offers a range of travel insurance plans that cater to different budgets and travel styles. Known for its excellent medical coverage and optional adventure sports add-ons, Trawick is especially appealing for international travelers or those engaging in high-risk activities. They also provide strong coverage for trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage.
What if My Credit Card Has Travel Insurance?
If you plan on using travel insurance provided by your credit card company, make sure it includes international medical and emergency evacuation coverage as a key feature. It's also important to review all the activities included in your trip with your credit card insurance to avoid any gaps in coverage, such as lost baggage, travel delays, and trip cancellations.
Important note: When going this route, all of your trip payments and flight purchasing should be made on your same credit card.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Choosing the right travel insurance may feel overwhelming, but by considering the type of trip, destination, and activities you’ll be engaging in, you can compare coverage options and find a plan that best suites your needs. If you’re still unsure which is right for you, our team is happy to help.
Safe & happy travels!