Travel insurance has a reputation: it sounds good until you need it, then you find out your claim isn't covered.
This guide cuts through the BS. We'll explain what travel insurance actually covers (and what it doesn't), the best providers, and how to use AirHelp to claim $700+ for flight delays.
The Five Types of Travel Insurance
1. Trip Cancellation Insurance
You cancel your trip for a covered reason, you get refunded. Cost: 5–10% of trip.
Actually covers: Illness, death in family, job loss, natural disasters.
Does NOT cover: COVID-19 (varies), pre-existing conditions (unless waiver), you changed your mind.
2. Medical Travel Insurance
Emergency care while abroad. Cost: $10–50 for 2 weeks.
Covers: Hospital, doctor visits, emergency evacuation.
Does NOT cover: Pre-existing conditions, routine dental, care back home.
3. Flight Delay Insurance
Here's the secret: You don't need to buy this. The airline owes you by law.
EU261 Regulation: Airlines owe you €250–€600 for 3+ hour delays. AirHelp claims it for free (15% commission). They only get paid if you win.
4. Luggage Insurance
Luggage lost or delayed. Cost: $10–30.
Worth it? No. Airlines already cover lost luggage up to $2,500.
5. Emergency Evacuation
Helicopter rescue in mountains/remote areas. Cost: $30–100.
Worth it? Only if you're trekking/climbing.
Best Insurance Providers
World Nomads
Comprehensive. Covers adventure activities. $12–20/day.
Best for: Backpackers, gap year travelers.
SafetyWing
Monthly plans. $45/month. No age limit.
Best for: Long-term travelers, digital nomads.
Travel Guard (AIG)
Wide coverage, pre-existing conditions waiver available. $40–$200 depending on trip.
Best for: Older travelers, expensive trips.
Credit Card Travel Insurance (Free)
Often included with premium cards (Chase Sapphire, AmEx Platinum).
Best for: People with premium credit cards.
What Travel Insurance DOESN'T Cover
- Pre-existing conditions (unless you buy a waiver)
- Claims involving alcohol/drugs
- Illegal activities
- Travel to countries with government warnings
- Claims within 14 days of booking
- Pandemics (usually)
- Unvaccinated travelers (some policies)
The Bottom Line
- Trip under $1,500, under 1 week? Skip insurance.
- $1,500–$5,000 trip? Buy trip cancellation + medical ($30–60).
- $5,000+ trip? Buy comprehensive insurance.
- Flight gets delayed 3+ hours? Don't buy insurance. Use AirHelp to claim EU261 compensation free. You get €250–€600.
Book cheap flights. Travel protected.
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