Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance?

Medical travel insurance is essential for international trips, as most U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not provide coverage abroad. Without it, you may face high out-of-pocket medical costs in the event of an emergency.

When and Where Is It Needed?

  • Domestic Travel (Within the U.S.): If you have a U.S. health insurance plan, additional travel medical coverage may not be necessary unless you’re looking for extra benefits like emergency evacuation.
  • International Travel: Strongly recommended, as U.S. health insurance typically does not cover medical expenses overseas. Some countries even require proof of coverage for entry.
  • High-Risk Travelers: Those with pre-existing conditions, pregnant travelers, or individuals engaging in adventure activities should consider comprehensive coverage to avoid unexpected medical costs.

Don’t just take it from us. The U.S. Department of State strongly advises all travelers to have travel health insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuations.

How Much Is Travel Health Insurance?

Medical-only travel insurance is the most affordable type of trip protection, costing roughly $4.60/day on average.

This is based on internal sales data from thousands of travelers who purchased travel medical-only travel insurance through Squaremouth over the past 12 months. The average traveler spent $92 on travel medical insurance with an average trip length of 20 days.

With that said, pricing varies and travel insurance companies will consider your age, trip length, destination, and coverage needs when determining premiums. You can find medical travel insurance for as little as $1/day by comparing options from multiple providers.

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Best Travel Medical Insurance Providers of 2025

Squaremouth ranks the three best companies for travel medical insurance based on policies sold:

View a full breakdown of the top travel medical insurance providers.

Types Of Travel Medical Coverage

Travel medical insurance typically includes several types of coverage to protect travelers in case of health emergencies abroad.

Emergency Medical Coverage

Pays for unexpected medical expenses, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and treatments.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

Covers transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility if adequate care isn’t available locally.

Repatriation Coverage

Provides for the return of remains or transport home if medically necessary.

Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

Some policies offer coverage for medical issues that existed before the trip, often with specific conditions or requirements.

Can You Buy Just Medical Travel Insurance?

Yes, it’s possible to purchase international medical insurance without having to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance plan.

This coverage is ideal for travelers who need medical coverage while they’re away, but don’t need to protect their travel expenses and have no concerns about having to cancel their trip at the last minute.

A medical-only travel insurance policy is a great option if you:

  • Travel Abroad: Travel medical insurance is crucial for international trips as U.S. health insurance is rarely accepted overseas
  • Are Budget-Conscious: Purchasing a travel medical policy is often significantly cheaper than comprehensive travel insurance
  • Have Existing Trip Protection: Some travel credit cards provide trip cancellation coverage, which may reduce your need for a comprehensive plan
  • Need Medical Coverage: Travel medical policies include strong coverage for unexpected medical expenses and evacuation costs
  • Have a Pre-Existing Condition: Travel insurance with medical conditions coverage is crucial if you are traveling with an existing health issue

How Much Travel Medical Insurance Do I Need?

The amount of medical travel insurance you need depends on several factors, including your destination, age, medical history, and travel itinerary.

General Emergency Medical Recommendations

  • Domestic Trips: If you have existing health insurance, travel medical insurance may not be necessary for domestic travel. Nevertheless, you can purchase a basic plan for peace of mind.
  • International Trips: We recommend plans that include at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage for most international trips.
  • Cruises: Due to the expensive nature of receiving medical treatment at sea, you should consider a plan that offers at least $100,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $250,000 in Medical Evacuation protection for your cruise vacation.
  • Remote & Adventure Vacations: If you are participating in hazardous activities or traveling to regions far from medical facilities, you should look for policies that offer no less than $100,000 in Emergency Medical coverage and $500,000 in evacuation coverage.

How Do I File a Medical Travel Insurance Claim?

If you experience a medical issue while traveling and want to be reimbursed for covered medical expenses, you’ll need to file a claim with your travel insurance provider. The process is typically straightforward and involves the following steps:

  1. Contact Your Provider: Notify your insurance company as soon as it’s safe to do so to confirm that your condition can be covered by your policy.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant paperwork, including medical records, itemized bills from healthcare providers, proof of payment, and any doctor’s notes.
  3. Complete a Claims Form: Most insurers allow you to file medical claims online or through their mobile app. Fill out the form thoroughly and attach all required documentation.
  4. Submit Your Claim: Once completed, submit your claim and monitor its progress. Most providers process claims within 4–6 weeks upon filing, however it varies depending on the claim.
  5. Appeal (If Necessary): If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. There is no guarantee that an appeal will be successful.

Is Travel Medical Insurance Worth It?

Yes, buying a single trip medical travel insurance plan is worth the expense, especially if you’re planning international travel to a country that doesn’t accept U.S. health insurance.

Travel medical policies can cost as little as $1 a day and could potentially save you thousands of dollars in medical expenses if you get sick or injured while traveling.

The majority of travel medical insurance plans also include a wide-range of other benefits that financially protect you from losses relating to delays, lost baggage, and other unexpected disruptions.

Here’s why we recommend travel health insurance:

  • Financial Protection: Even a minor health issue can result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses, with medical evacuations sometimes costing $100,000+
  • Access to Quality Care: In some countries, medical facilities may require upfront payment if you don’t have appropriate coverage.
  • Emergency Assistance: All providers listed on Squaremouth offer support for finding care, arranging medical evacuations, logistics, and translation services.

Which Medical Travel Insurance Is Best?

Finding the best medical travel insurance involves comparing policies from reputable providers, considering factors such as coverage limits, exclusions, premiums, and customer reviews.

It's essential to choose a plan that aligns with your specific travel plans and health needs. The best travel medical plans include the following benefits:

For detailed comparisons and to obtain a personalized quote, explore our guide on the best medical travel insurance.

See Best Medical Travel Plans