1. Emergency Medical Coverage: Don’t Travel Without It

Your regular health insurance probably won’t follow you abroad. That means if you get sick, injured, or end up in the hospital overseas, you’re on the hook—sometimes for thousands. Travel medical insurance steps in to cover doctor visits, emergency surgeries, and even medical evacuations. Look for plans with at least $100,000 in coverage. It’s the most important thing on this list, hands down.

2. Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Worth It for Pricey Plans

If you’ve prepaid for flights, hotels, or tours, cancellation insurance can save your trip budget if life throws a wrench in your plans. Whether it’s a medical emergency, family death, or natural disaster, you can recover nonrefundable costs. Just make sure the reason for canceling is covered—“I changed my mind” doesn’t count unless you buy “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage, which costs more but gives ultimate flexibility.

3. Lost Baggage and Delays: Small Cost, Big Relief

Luggage lost in transit? Stuck overnight in an airport with no compensation? Baggage delay and loss coverage can help replace essentials, clothes, or even a stolen laptop. Flight delay benefits can reimburse food, hotels, or missed connections. These perks might seem minor until you’re the one living in yesterday’s clothes with no charger in sight.

4. COVID and Epidemic Coverage: Still a Thing in 2025

Many destinations still have health entry requirements or could change policies overnight. Some travel insurers now offer specific COVID-related coverage, including cancellations, quarantines, and treatment abroad. Double-check the fine print—some plans still exclude epidemics unless you opt into a special rider. In today’s travel climate, it’s better to be safe (and covered) than surprised.

5. Annual Multi-Trip Plans: For Frequent Travelers

If you take multiple trips a year—especially for work—consider an annual travel insurance plan. It covers you for all your travels within 12 months, often at a lower total cost than buying individual policies every time. Companies like Allianz, SafetyWing, and World Nomads offer flexible options that suit digital nomads, frequent flyers, or international remote workers.

Conclusion: Travel Insurance Isn’t Just for Nervous Flyers

From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, travel insurance covers the stuff you never think will happen—until it does. For a small fraction of your total trip cost, it buys peace of mind, access to help, and a way out of worst-case scenarios. Pack light, plan smart, and don’t skip the coverage.