Best International Travel Insurance for US Citizens in 2026
Compare travel medical, trip cancellation, and annual plans for U.S. travelers — from $20/month.
Not sure which plan is right for your international trip? Compare travel medical and trip cancellation plans for U.S. citizens — get a quote in under 30 seconds.
Traveling internationally is exciting, but it also comes with risks that many U.S. travelers often overlook. When you are outside the country, your domestic health insurance or Medicare usually offers little to no coverage. This makes having reliable international travel medical insurance essential for every trip.
Unexpected situations such as illnesses, injuries, flight delays, lost baggage, or natural disasters can happen at any time. Even a minor medical issue abroad can result in expensive hospital bills, making it important to protect yourself with a plan that includes strong ,emergency medical and evacuation coverage.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
US ResidentsCovers non-refundable trip costs flights, hotels, cruises plus emergency medical expenses when plans change.
Travel Medical Insurance
All TravelersCovers illnesses, injuries, doctor visits, and hospital stays for all international travelers worldwide.
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Why Do US Citizens Need International Travel Health Insurance?
Here are the key reasons why the best international travel health insurance for US citizens is essential when traveling overseas:
U.S. health insurance and Medicare generally do not cover medical treatment outside the United States. Travelers should check with Medicare supplement providers, as most offer very limited or no international coverage.
Even if a visa is not required (such as for many European countries), travelers still need strong medical coverage for hospital visits, urgent care, and accidents. Travel medical insurance also includes critical benefits like emergency evacuation and repatriation.
Many international travel medical plans offer limited coverage for the sudden onset of pre-existing conditions—an important benefit for senior travelers who manage ongoing health issues.
Insurance plans purchased abroad often lack the comprehensive benefits available through U.S.-based travel insurers. Understanding a new country’s healthcare system during a short trip can be difficult, making U.S. travel medical plans more dependable.
International plans typically include medical evacuation and repatriation benefits, ensuring safe transport home or to the nearest quality medical facility during a crisis.
Beyond these benefits, many plans also offer optional sports coverage and additional protections. Travelers should always review the policy details to ensure the plan meets their needs.
American Visitor Insurance offers excellent comprehensive international travel medical plans for U.S. citizens, with coverage options up to $1,000,000. Popular choices include Atlas International, Patriot International Lite, Travel Medical Choice Insurance, and Safe Travels Outbound.
Travel Insurance for US Seniors With Medicare Coverage
Does Medicare cover medical costs for U.S. citizens visiting the USA?
- US citizens should realise that Medicare and its supplements provide very little coverage outside US borders.
- There is a travel health insurance plan specifically designed for older American travelers.
- Indianapolis based International Medical Group (IMG) offers GlobeHopper Senior — an affordable overseas travel medical insurance option for US citizens and US permanent residents 65 years and older.
The GlobeHopper Senior plan is available either as
Key benefits includes:
- check_circle Provides $1 million coverage up to the age of 79 years
- check_circle Provides $100,000 coverage for travelers 80 years and older
- check_circle Includes $2,500 cover for sudden unexpected recurrence of a pre-existing condition
- check_circle Includes $25,000 coverage for emergency medical evacuation
- Read More
I'm a U.S. citizen traveling abroad. Can I renew my GlobeHopper Senior travel insurance plan if it has already expired?
Unfortunately, plans cannot be renewed after their expiration date. To stay protected, travelers should renew or extend coverage before the plan expires. If your policy has already lapsed, you'll need to purchase a new plan for your next trip.
Why U.S. Citizens Need Travel Medical Insurance Abroad?
Most American travelers assume their domestic health plan will protect them internationally but this is usually not true.
Why coverage is essential:International travel medical insurance protects you from unexpected medical and financial risks during your trip.
Which Is the Cheapest Travel Medical Insurance from USA?
The Cheapest travel health insurance for USA is Atlas Essential International.
The other Affordable travel medical insurance for US citizens include Atlas International and Patriot International Lite.
Low cost comprehensive travel insurance for travel outside USA.
Best travel insurance for US citizens and US residents traveling outside the United States
Best travel insurance plan with pre-existing coverage for travel outside USA.
Best comprehensive travel insurance for US citizens traveling outside their home country.
The price shown is for a 30-day trip with a $50,000 maximum coverage and a $250 deductible for a 20-year-old traveler.
Which Is the Best Travel Medical Insurance from USA?
The Best medical insurance for travel insurance for USA is Atlas Premium International.
The other top recommended Best Travel Insurance for U.S. Citizens include Intermedical and Patriot Platinum international.
Provides top-tier medical insurance with high coverage limits for travelers.
- check_circlePolicy maximum - $50,000 - $2,000,000
- check_circleDeductible - $0 - $5,000
- check_circleCoverage - 5 days- 364 days
- check_circleAcute Onset - Up to policy maximum up to 79 years
Provides short-term international medical coverage for US travelers abroad.
- check_circlePolicy maximum - $50,000 - $150,000
- check_circleDeductible - $0 - $1,000
- check_circleCoverage - 5 days- 364 days
- check_circleAcute Onset - Up to policy maximum
Provides first-class medical coverage for U.S. travelers abroad, including short-term U.S. return coverage.
- check_circlePolicy maximum - $2,000,000 - $8,000,000
- check_circleDeductible - $0 - $25,000
- check_circleCoverage - 5 days - 2 years
- check_circleAcute Onset - Up to policy maximum up to 79 years
The price shown is for a 30-day trip with a $50,000 maximum coverage and a $250 deductible for a 20-year-old traveler.
Best Travel Medical Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions Abroad
Below are some of the best travel medical insurance plans offering coverage for acute onset or limited pre-existing conditions for travelers outside the USA:
Cheapest travel insurance with pre-existing condition coverage offering strong medical coverage and acute onset pre-existing condition.
- Acute Onset Coverage: Covers up to the overall maximum limit for travelers under age 80.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $25,000 lifetime maximum.
- Cost Example (20-year-old traveler): $27 for a 30-day trip, $50,000 maximum coverage, $250 deductible.
Offers acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage for travelers, making it a strong budget-friendly choice.
- Acute Onset Coverage:
- Under age 69: Maximum limit $25,000
- Ages 70–79: Maximum limit $2,500
- Cost Example (20-year-old traveler): $29 for a 30-day trip, $50,000 maximum coverage, $0 deductible.
Affordable travel insurance with pre-existing conditions providing essential medical coverage and acute onset pre-existing condition protection for travelers under age 70.
- Age 64 and under without primary health plan: Maximum limit $20,000
- Age 64 and under with primary health plan: Up to the period-of-coverage limit
- Age 65 through 69: Maximum limit $2,500
- Cost Example (20-year-old traveler): $29 for a 30-day trip, $50,000 maximum coverage, $250 deductible.
Travel medical insurance for pre-existing conditions covers the acute onset of pre-existing conditions across different age groups, along with lifetime emergency evacuation benefits.
- Age 80+: Maximum limit $5,000
- Ages 60–79: Maximum limit $20,000
- Under age 60: Up to the overall maximum limit
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: $25,000 lifetime maximum
- Cost Example (20-year-old traveler): $48 for a 30-day trip, $50,000 maximum coverage, $250 deductible.
Why U.S. Travelers Need Medical Evacuation Travel Insurance?
International travelers who need coverage for expenses arising from international security evacuation, medical evacuation and repatriation can buy Medical evacuation insurance commonly called “Medevac insurance”.
Both WorldTrips Atlas Medevac and Seven Corners Medical Evacuation and Repatriation plans offer reliable coverage for U.S. citizens.
Which International Travel Insurance Is Best for Your Trip?
Not all trips carry the same risk - a 5-day cruise to the Caribbean is very different from a 3-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. Here's how to match coverage to your actual itinerary.
| Your Trip Type | Best Plan | Key Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Beach vacation (7–14 days) | Atlas Essential International | Low-cost, solid medical; no extras needed |
| Cruise | iTravelInsured Travel LX | Covers missed port, itinerary change, evacuation from sea |
| Safari/Africa | Pathway Premium | High evacuation limit ($1M); covers remote areas |
| Schengen Europe | Atlas International | Meets €30,000 visa requirement; acute onset coverage |
| Adventure/sports | Patriot International Lite + Sports Rider | Add-on for hiking, skiing, scuba |
| Senior 65+ | GlobeHopper Senior | Purpose-built for Medicare-gap travelers |
| Frequent flier (3+ trips/year) | Atlas International Multi-Trip Travel Medical Choice |
One annual policy saves money vs. buying per trip Ideal for multiple trips with strong medical coverage and a wide global network |
| Budget Travelers | Safe Travels Outbound | Affordable plan offering essential benefits like medical treatment, evacuation, and trip interruption. |
| Best for Pre-Existing Conditions (Acute Onset) | Atlas International and Patriot International |
Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions, offering reliable protection for travelers with medical histories. |
| Best for Family Vacations | Atlas International | Great family pricing, comprehensive benefits, and wide global acceptance. |
What Factors Affect the Cost of International Travel Medical Insurance for U.S. Citizens?
The price of your travel policy depends on several factors:
Older travelers especially seniors pay more because the risk of medical emergencies increases with age.
Higher maximum medical coverage (e.g., $100,000 vs. $1,000,000) increases the cost.
A higher deductible reduces the cost, while a $0 deductible typically increases the premium.
Longer trips cost more because the insurer covers you for more days.
There are different underwriters such as AIG, Lloyds, Nationwide, etc. Premium will vary for different underwriter.
Adventure/sports coverage, hazardous activities, and pre-existing condition or acute-onset upgrades are optional riders that increase the total premium.
Single Trip vs. Annual Travel Insurance: Which Is Cheaper?
If you take more than two international trips per year, an annual multi-trip plan is almost always more cost-effective. Here's a real cost comparison:
Example: 40-year-old traveler, 3 trips of 10 days each
| Option | Cost per Trip | Total Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential (single trip × 3) | ~$27/trip | ~$81/year |
| Atlas International Annual | - | ~$93–$110/year |
| GlobeHopper Senior Multi-Trip (age 65+) | - | Fixed annual rate |
When Single-Trip Makes More Sense:
When Annual Multi-Trip Wins:
You can compare annual travel insurance plans for US citizens to find the best option for your needs.
How Much Does International Travel Insurance Cost for US Citizens?
Travel Medical Insurance If you want coverage for emergency medical expenses such as hospital bills and doctor visits caused by sudden sickness or injuries from an accident, consider buying these travel medical insurance plans.
The cost of travel medical insurance for travelers from the USA starts as low as $20 per month. Prices vary based on the traveler’s age, coverage limits, deductible, and length of stay.
Travel medical insurance provides: Coverage for doctor visits, Protection for emergency hospital stays, Financial protection against high medical costs abroad, Access to necessary care while traveling
Average one-month travel health insurance costs for US citizens traveling abroad are shown below.
| Plan | Deductible | Age 20 | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential International World Trips |
$250 | $20 | $40 | $86 | $263 |
| Safe Travels Outbound Trawick International |
$250 | $26 | $77 | $168 | $296 |
| Atlas International World Trips |
$250 | $27 | $54 | $117 | $212 |
| VisitorSecure World Trips |
$100 | $29 | $34 | $55 | $96 |
| Travel Medical Excluding USA Basic Seven Corners |
$0 | $29 | $55 | $121 | $269 |
| Patriot International Lite IMG |
$250 | $29 | $55 | $121 | $214 |
| BCBS Single Trip Gold BCBS |
$250 | $32 | $58 | $116 | $271 |
| BCBS Single Trip Platinum BCBS |
$250 | $35 | $65 | $130 | $259 |
| Diplomat International Global Underwriters |
$250 | $32 | $86 | $181 | $315 |
| Intermedical Travel Insure |
$250 | $48 | $73 | $121 | $201 |
Source: American Visitor Insurance® | Prices verified for 2026 travel season.
Travel Medical Insurance for U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad
Review travel medical insurance coverage benefits.
Top Recommended Travel Medical Insurance Plans for US Citizens
Other affordable travel medical insurance plans for U.S. citizens include Atlas International, Patriot International Lite .
Other top recommended travel medical insurance plans for U.S. citizens include Intermedical, Patriot Platinum International .
Is Travel Insurance Worth the Money? Real-World Cost Examples
It's easy to skip travel insurance when everything feels fine. But consider what happens when it doesn't.
- Hospital visit, X-ray, cast, and 2 nights admitted: $9,000–$14,000
- Cost of Atlas International for a 2-week trip: ~$54
- Result: 250x return on premium
- Air ambulance back to the US: $80,000–$200,000
- Cost of Atlas Premium International for a 14-day trip: ~$76
- Result: Insurance pays for itself in the first 30 minutes of an emergency
- Non-refundable hotel + tour package lost: $4,200
- Cost of Pathway Premium trip cancellation plan: ~$168
- Result: 25x return on premium
- Cost of peace of mind for your entire trip: the price of a few dinners
- Result: Still worth it
The question isn't "Will something go wrong?" It's "Can I afford it if it does?"
Which Travel Insurance Meets the Schengen Visa Requirement?
If US travelers are visiting any of the 29 Schengen Area countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.) on a Long term Europe visa for more than 90 days, they are legally required to have travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 in emergency coverage (approximately $32,000 USD)
Plans that meet the Schengen requirement:
| Plan | Coverage | Schengen-Compliant? |
|---|---|---|
| Atlas Essential International | $50,000–$1M | Yes |
| Atlas International | $50,000–$2M | Yes |
| Patriot International Lite | $50,000–$1M | Yes |
| Safe Travels Outbound | $50,000–$500K | Yes |
| Voyager Essential (GeoBlue) | $50,000+ | Yes |
What documentation does the embassy need? The insurer will provide a certificate of insurance after the purchase. This document should show:
- The name and passport number
- Coverage dates (must cover your full trip)
- Coverage territory (must include all Schengen countries)
- Minimum €30,000 coverage amount
Trip Cancellation Insurance for U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad
What Does Trip Cancellation Insurance Cover?
At American Visitor Insurance, we assist travelers from nearly anywhere as they travel away from home! It is important to consider purchasing an insurance plan to cover trip cancellation.
Provides a refund for non-reimbursable deposits and trip costs if something prevents taking the trip between payment and departure.
Cost of such insurance depends more on the trip cost than the length of the trip (most have maximum day limits).
Plans available for high-cost trips (exceeding $10,000 per person, e.g., safaris, long cruises) and modestly priced trips.
Benefits usually cover 100% of non-refundable trip costs - Often reduced to 75% for the ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit.
Coverage during the trip includes: Unexpected medical expenses, Trip interruption (if unable to complete trip due to illness, weather, etc.), Trip delay (missed flights or connections, help to catch cruise if necessary) and Baggage loss
Assistance for pets or children traveling with you.
When Can I Buy the Trip Cancellation Plan?
When Do You Need Trip Cancellation Coverage?
While medical coverage is essential, trip cancellation is optional and should be considered if:
Trip cancellation reimburses prepaid expenses if you must cancel for a covered reason.
Who Should Not Buy Trip Cancellation Insurance?
You may not need trip cancellation insurance if:Does Trip Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?
Many travel insurance plans offer a waiver of the pre-existing medical condition exclusion if you purchase your policy within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit.
However, the iTravelInsured Travel LX plan gives you more flexibility and allows you to qualify for the waiver if buy the iTravelInsured Travel LX insurance within 24 hours of your final trip payment
This flexibility provides travelers the ability to buy trip cancellation insurance with pre-existing conditions coverage up to the final trip payment. This provides valuable peace of mind and greater medical coverage for seniors with existing health conditions.
While we hope your trip goes smoothly and you stay happy and healthy, it’s reassuring to know that you’ll be protected even if unexpected issues arise — from the minor inconvenience of a missed connection to the major challenge of seeking medical care abroad or having to cancel your trip altogether.
Popular plans offering a pre-existing condition waiver include:
- Pathway Premium – Covered if purchased within 21 days of the initial trip deposit.
- Travelex Ultimate – Waiver included if purchased within 21 days of the first trip payment, with the full trip cost insured.
- iTravelInsured Travel LX – Waiver available if purchased within 24 hours of the final trip payment.
- Safe Travels Armor – Covered if purchased within 14 days of the initial trip deposit.
- Trip Protection Choice – Covered if purchased within 20 days of the initial trip payment or deposit, and other requirements are met.
- Trip Protector Preferred – Coverage available if purchased within 21 days of the initial trip deposit.
At American Visitor Insurance, we're here to help you find the right trip cancellation insurance with pre-existing condition coverage so you can travel with confidence and peace of mind.
Which is the Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for U.S. Seniors?
For senior travelers, iTravelInsured Choice Insurance from IMG is a top option. Designed for trips under $10,000 per person, it offers:
- Trip cancellation & interruption for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses
- Medical coverage up to $100,000 and emergency medical evacuation up to $500,000
- Add-ons: Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR), enhanced medical coverage, cruise protection, and sports coverage
- Pre-existing condition waiver if purchased within 21 days of the initial trip deposit
For trips over $10,000 or those seeking higher limits, iTravelInsured Travel SE and LX plans are recommended:
iTravelInsured Travel SE: Trip costs up to $150,000, medical coverage up to $250,000
iTravelInsured Travel LX: Trip costs up to $150,000, medical coverage up to $500,000
Both include trip cancellation, interruption, evacuation, and optional add-ons similar to Choice
- Choice: Best for budget-friendly coverage for seniors on standard trips
- SE or LX: Best for high-cost trips or travelers seeking maximum protection
For detailed guidance on choosing the right plan, check out our page on best trip cancellation insurance for seniors.
Which Is the Cheapest Travel Insurance With Trip Cancellation Coverage?
The cheapest travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is Safe Travels Protect, starting at $24.
Other affordable travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage include Pathway Essential and Travelex Advantage.
Trawick International
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Trawick International
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Travelex
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Which Is the Best Travel Insurance With Trip Cancellation Coverage?
The Best travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is Pathway Premium, starting at $40.
Other top recommended travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage include Travelex Ultimate and iTravelInsured LX.
Trawick International
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Trawick International
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Travelex
Age: 20 years | Trip Cost: $1,000| Trip Duration: 15 days
Medical-Only vs. Trip Cancellation Insurance: What’s the Best Choice for Your Trip?
Simple comparison to help U.S. travelers choose the right type of protection.
What Medical-Only Travel Insurance Covers?
Travel medical insurance is short-term international health coverage that protects you from unexpected medical emergencies while traveling outside your home country. It helps pay for doctor visits, hospital bills, emergency treatment, prescription medication, and medical evacuation if you need advanced care or transportation back home. This type of insurance is essential because most domestic health plans offer little to no coverage abroad, leaving travelers exposed to high medical costs.
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Urgent care visits
- Prescription medications
- Repatriation
Why choose this: It’s affordable and covers the biggest financial risk medical bills abroad.
What Trip Cancellation Insurance Covers?
Trip Cancellation Insurance protects U.S. travelers from losing money on prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses when a trip must be cancelled or interrupted for a covered reason. These reasons typically include illness, injury, family emergencies, severe weather, or unforeseen travel disruptions.
Travel insurance or Trip Cancellation insurance the non-refundable costs of a trip while also insuring the health of the traveler. It is popular for travel both within the US as well as overseas. Cancel for any reson coverange also available.
- Reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses
- Covered reasons: illness, injury, family emergency, weather, airline issues
- Trip interruption (if you need to cut your trip short)
- Trip delay benefits
- Lost baggage & baggage delay
Why Choose This: It protects your financial investment if something forces you to cancel.
International Travel Health Insurance - FAQs
Countries That Require or Recommend Travel Insurance
Many countries now require or strongly recommend travel medical insurance for U.S. citizens before entry. This list gives travelers peace of mind and improves clarity.
Countries Where Travel Insurance Is Mandatory:| Country | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Schengen Europe | Requires €30,000 emergency medical coverage for visa/entry. |
| UAE | Medical insurance required for visa approval. |
| Turkey | Mandatory for certain visa categories. |
| Cuba | Proof of medical insurance required upon arrival. |
| Qatar | Visitors must have valid health insurance. |
| Country | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Singapore | High medical costs; strongly advised. |
| Thailand | Recommended due to medical + evacuation costs. |
| Japan | Very high healthcare costs for foreigners. |
| Australia | Strongly recommended for visitors. |
| New Zealand | Advises travelers to carry medical insurance. |
| Israel | Healthcare costs can be high; recommended. |
| Region | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Schengen Europe | Requires €30,000 emergency medical coverage for visa/entry. |
| Antarctica | Mandatory evacuation coverage required by cruise operators. |
| Arctic Regions | Remote area vacation insurance required. |
| Remote Island Cruises | Cruise companies require emergency evacuation coverage. |
International Travel Health Insurance for Countries With High Medical Costs
Medical treatment costs vary widely worldwide. This quick comparison helps travelers understand the financial risk of traveling without insurance.
| Destination | Typical ER Visit Cost | Payment Requirement | Medical Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | $1,200 – $2,500 | Upfront payment | High |
| Australia | $1,500 – $2,000 | Upfront | High |
| Europe (France/Italy) | $800 – $1,300 | Partial upfront | Moderate |
| UK | $500 – $900 | Upfront for non-residents | Moderate |
| Middle East | $2,000 – $4,000 | Full upfront | High |
| Southeast Asia | $300 – $700 | Upfront | Low–Moderate |
What Is Not Covered by Travel insurance for International Trips?
Understanding what's excluded is just as important as knowing what's covered. Most international travel medical plans for US citizens do not cover the following:
Standard Exclusions (across most plans):
- Pre-existing conditions diagnosed or treated in the 12–36 months before departure (unless the plan offers an acute onset benefit or pre-existing condition waiver)
- Routine check-ups, preventive care, or elective procedures
- Mental health treatment (some plans have limited psychiatric emergency coverage)
- Pregnancy and childbirth (unless the birth is an emergency before 26 weeks; varies by plan)
- Self-inflicted injuries or injuries from illegal activities
- War, civil unrest, or acts of terrorism (some plans offer limited coverage - check the policy)
- Extreme sports without a purchased sports rider (e.g., skydiving, bungee jumping, off-piste skiing)
Trip Cancellation Exclusions to Know:
- "I changed my mind" — cancellation is only covered for listed reasons, unless you buy Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)
- Pandemics/epidemics may be excluded unless the plan explicitly covers COVID-19
- Known events (e.g., a hurricane already named before you bought coverage)
- Financial default of a tour operator (only some plans cover this)
If you have a pre-existing condition, look for plans offering an acute onset benefit (like Atlas International or Patriot International Lite) or buy a trip cancellation plan within 14–21 days of your initial deposit to qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver.
How to Use US Citizens Travel Insurance Abroad: Step-by-Step
Being sick or injured in a foreign country is stressful. Here's exactly what to do when you need to use your policy.
Call the 24/7 Assistance Hotline First
Before going to any hospital, call the number on your insurance ID card. The assistance team will:
- check_circle Direct you to an approved network hospital (critical for direct billing)
- check_circle Issue a guarantee of payment so you don't pay upfront
- check_circle Arrange medical evacuation if needed
Don't go to a hospital first and call later — this is the most common claim mistake.
Document Everything from Day One
Keep copies of:
- check_circle All medical bills and receipts
- check_circle Prescriptions and pharmacy receipts
- check_circle Doctor's written diagnosis or discharge summary
- check_circle Police report (if applicable, e.g., theft or accident)
- check_circle Airline documentation for delays or cancellations
Notify Within the Required Timeframe
Most plans require notification within 24–48 hours of a medical emergency. Delayed notification can result in claim denial.
File Your Claim Online
After returning home, submit your claim through the insurer's portal.
Follow Up Within 30 Days
Most claims are processed within 30 days. If you haven't heard back, follow up directly with the insurer's claims department.
Best Travel Insurance Options for US Citizens: Medical, Cancellation & Annual Plans
Travel Medical Insurance
→ Full comparison: Best Travel Medical Insurance for US Citizens AbroadForeign travel medical insurance for US citizens is the primary financial protection against illness and injury outside the US.
Key features to compare across plans
Top picks
from $27/month, acute onset up to policy max
up to $8M coverage, ideal for long-term travelers
Trip Cancellation Insurance
→ Full comparison: Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for US CitizensOverseas Travel Insurance for Trip cancellation insurance covers what travel medical doesn't — your non-refundable financial investment in the trip itself.
Here's what to look for
Best-value picks
from $24, up to $250K medical, $14K trip cost
from $43, up to $1M evacuation, $100K medical
up to $150K trip cost, $500K medical, CFAR available
Annual Travel Insurance for US Citizens Abroad
→ Full comparison: Best Annual Multi-Trip Insurance for US CitizensAnnual travel insurance covers all your international trips for 12 months under one policy — ideal for US citizens who travel abroad 2 or more times per year.
How it works
Who should buy it
Business travelers with quarterly international trips
Retirees who winter abroad or take multiple cruises
Families with annual international vacations
Who should NOT buy it
Travelers taking one long trip over 45 days (single-trip plan works better)
Those who need trip cancellation coverage (annual plans generally don't include this)
Best annual travel insurance for international trips
12-month coverage, up to 30 days/trip
flexible trip lengths, strong medical limits
up to 2-year coverage, acute onset included
Average Trip Cancellation Insurance Cost for U.S. Citizens
This table gives the average trip cancellation insurance cost for different ages. Approximate cost of Trip insurance plans is for a 15 days trip length and $1,000 trip cost.
| Plan | Trip Cancellation | Age 20 | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels Protect Trawick International |
100% of Trip Cost, max $14,000 | $24 | $32 | $39 | $74 |
| Pathway Essential Trawick International |
100% of Trip Cost, max $14,000 | $24 | $33 | $53 | $76 |
| Pathway Plus Trawick International |
100% of Trip Cost, max $50,000 | $32 | $43 | $70 | $98 |
| Trip Protection Basic Seven Corners |
100% of your nonrefundable Trip Cost up to $30,000 | $34 | $47 | $70 | $70 |
| Travelex Advantage Travelex |
100% of Trip Cost, max $10,000 | $36 | $42 | $62 | $87 |
| Itravelinsured Choice IMG |
100% of Trip Cost | $39 | $50 | $73 | $110 |
| Travel Insurance Select Travel Insurance |
100% of Trip Cost | $42 | $42 | $87 | $102 |
| Safe Travels Armor Trawick International |
100% of Trip Cost, max $100,000 | $43 | $55 | $67 | $124 |
| Pathway Premium Trawick International |
100% of Trip Cost, max $100,000 | $43 | $56 | $90 | $126 |
| Trip Protector Economy Seven Corners |
100% of Trip Cost, max $5,000 | $47 | $55 | $71 | $75 |
| Travelex Ultimate Travelex |
100% of Trip Cost, max $50,000 | $57 | $69 | $91 | $125 |
| Trip Protection Choice Seven Corners |
100% of your nonrefundable Trip Cost up to $100,000 | $65 | $87 | $118 | $118 |
| Itravelinsured LX IMG |
100% of Trip Cost | $102 | $114 | $138 | $171 |
Source: American Visitor Insurance® | Prices verified for 2026 travel season.
Best Trip Cancellation Insurance
Compare top-rated plans with strong cancellation benefits
Top Recommended Trip Cancellation Insurance Plans
Based on price, coverage limits, and traveler reviews, the following plans are the best trip cancellation insurance options for US citizens.
Other affordable travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage include Pathway Essential, Travelex Advantage
Other top recommended travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage include: Travelex Ultimate, iTravelInsured LX
American Travel Insurance - Reviews
Reviews, Ratings and Experiences from our customers
"I am always appreciating good business conduct and when I am coming back here for the longer time span."
"Thanks so much for your help American Visitor Insurance Customer Support, your service was fantastic."
"Thank you American Visitor Insurance! You went way beyond what I would expect from an insurance company when we needed."
Which Are the Best Visitors Insurance Companies?
You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Global Underwriters, GeoBlue, HTH Worldwide, Trawick International, Travel Insurance Services, INF insurance, Travelex and BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions.
