Travel Insurance FAQ Archives

Who would be considered as a "traveling companion" for my travel insurance policy?

The definition for a “Traveling Companion” can vary depending on the company and policy selected. Generally, a traveling companion means a person who is sharing travel arrangements with you. You should note that a group or tour leader is usually not considered a Traveling Companion unless you are sharing room accommodations with them. Always refer to […]

For International Medical Plans, what is the difference between a Scheduled Benefit Plan and a Comprehensive Plan?

Schedule Benefit Plans Schedule Benefit Plans are characterized by various benefit limits for each type of covered medical expense or service provided. These benefit limits typically are not the same as the policy maximum. The maximum amounts for each service provided are detailed in the policy brochure. Typically you are required to pay an initial […]

What is a Pre-Existing Conditions Exclusion Waiver?

Most travel insurance policies, whether it’s a single trip policy or an Annual plan, exclude pre-existing conditions, however this exclusion may be waived if certain conditions are met. A Pre-Existing Condition is defined as any medical condition that has worsened or changed during a policy’s look-back period, which is the 60-180 day window prior to […]

What is the "pre-existing condition look-back period"?

The pre-existing look back period for a travel insurance policy is the number of days that the insurance company will “look back” to determine if a claim is related to a pre-existing condition. The look back period is generally between 60 and 180 days, depending on the policy selected. Look back periods for select medical-based […]

What happens if my traveling companion cancels their trip due to illness and I still want to go but incurr additional costs as a result of their cancellation; Will travel insurance cover the additional costs?

Most travel insurance plans will cover you for a single supplement upgrade when your traveling companion cancels or interrupts their trip due to a covered reason and you do not. Always refer to the policy certificate for full details.

What is the Difference Between Primary and Secondary Travel Medical Coverage?

Most single trip travel insurance policies are comprehensive, and include coverage for the most common travel disruptions. One of the most common, and popular, travel insurance benefits is Emergency Medical, which provides travelers with coverage for medical emergencies sustained while traveling. A common concern that travelers have when reviewing this benefit is the difference between […]

Am I covered to cancel due to death of a non-traveling family member?

Yes, most of our package travel insurance policies provide coverage for trip cancellation due to a non-traveling family member’s death or serious illness requiring you to stay home.

I am traveling with a friend. Can we be on the same travel insurance policy?

Yes. You can be fully covered on the same travel insurance policy. You should only consider separate policies if you are residents of different countries.

Why should I purchase travel insurance early?

You are eligible to receive time-sensitive enhancements if you purchase a plan within 10 to 21 days (varies by company) from your initial deposit. Additionally, Trip Cancellation benefits begin protecting you the day after you purchase the plan against a “named peril” of the policy.

Do all travel insurance policies have a military clause in terms of getting deployed?

Most single trip travel insurance policies have a cancellation provision for “military called to emergency duty for a natural disaster other than war.” Some carriers include police, reservists, and fire personnel as well as military personnel. AIG Travel Guard policies have different provisions which include being called to active duty; having a leave revoked; or […]