Top 5 Reliable Yet Cheap Travel Insurance Options
7 May. 2024
Top 5 Reliable Yet Cheap Travel Insurance Options
To be honest, there is nothing like a cheap travel insurance plan, if the plan costs less it is more than likely that the coverage it extends also is lesser.
Now affordable travel insurance is a possibility. Navigating the maze of travel insurance options doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet.
We’ve pinpointed the best cheap travel insurance policies that deliver crucial coverage without the high price tag.
Medical emergency can occur at any place or time to anyone hence having adequate medical coverage to cover medical expenses is an absolute necessity in a foreign land.
Dive into our picks and arm yourself with the knowledge to secure travel protection that is both reliable and budget-friendly.
Travel insurance comes broadly of two types viz. trip insurance and travel medical insurance. This article deals with the latter especially to help you save money on unwarranted medical costs.
Get a trip insurance comparison.
Cheap Travel Insurance Key Takeaways
- Evaluating travel insurance policies necessitates consideration of critical factors such as trip length, healthcare costs, coverage scope, pre-existing conditions, and optional benefits to ensure financial efficiency and adequate protection.
- The top 5 travel insurance plans offering a mix of affordability and reliability include VisitorSecure by World Trips, Visitors Care by IMG Global, Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice, Patriot America Lite by IMG Global, and Safe Travels USA Cost Saver by Trawick International.
- These plans are a mix of limited coverage plans and comprehensive coverage plans, know the difference between coverage types.
- To find the best travel insurance deal, compare plans, choose the right coverage level without paying for unnecessary benefits, consider annual multi-trip plans for frequent travel, and review existing coverage to avoid redundant policies.
- Remember that the price should not be the final deciding factor but the coverage needed should be the deciding factor.
Criteria For Evaluating Affordable Travel Insurance
A myriad of travel insurance plans pervade the market, making it challenging to separate the worthwhile options from the less desirable ones. The answer lies in understanding the critical criteria that define the value of a travel insurance policy.
Considerations such as:
- The length of your trip
- Healthcare expenses at your destination
- The scope of coverage
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Age of the insured
- The inclusion of trip cancellation coverage or trip interruption coverage
- Optional benefits like add-on coverage for adventure sports
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Hospital stay, doctor visits
- PPO network access in the USA
are the compass by which you should navigate. A policy that may seem cheap at first glance could end up costing you more if it fails to cover essential medical treatments or trip mishaps.
Additionally, the ideal travel insurance plan is not universally applicable; instead, it should perfectly cater to your specific travel requirements.
Whether it’s a family travel insurance plan for a vacation with loved ones or a policy covering extreme sports for adrenaline junkies, the best travel insurance companies offer customization options that allow you to strike a balance between comprehensive protection and affordability.
Remember, a well-informed traveler reads beyond the fine print, considering user experiences and reviews to ensure the travel insurance company in question lives up to its promises.
Top 5 Cheap Travel Insurance Plans
Without further ado, here are the top 5 cheapest travel insurance plans from reputed travel insurance companies.
We may want the cheapest travel insurance companies providing plans at dirt cheap prices but the reality is that even the cheapest travel insurance plan has to provide adequate coverage and that is not possible to do at throwaway prices.
These carefully selected plans offer plans that harmoniously blend affordability with reliability.
These plans have been carefully selected to ensure that they provide not only cheaper travel insurance options but also the coverage you need to travel with confidence.
From the budget-friendly VisitorSecure by World Trips to the comprehensive Safe Travels USA Cost Saver by Trawick International, each of these plans has been crafted with the budget-conscious traveler in mind.
We’re about to delve into the specifics of each one, so you can confidently purchase travel insurance that aligns with your itinerary and financial plan.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Cheap Travel Insurance Plans
Affordable Travel Insurance Plans
| Plan Name | Plan Type | Policy Maximum | Deductible Option | Age 45 Years | Age 50 Years | Age 60 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VisitorSecure | Limited Coverage | $50,000 | $50 | $36.30 | $50.40 | $57.60 |
| Visitors Care | Limited Coverage | $50,000 | $50 | $35.10 | $49.80 | $55.80 |
| Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice | Limited Coverage | $50,000 | $50 | $65.10 | $89.70 | $120.90 |
| Safe Travels USA Cost Saver | Comprehensive Coverage | $50,000 | $250 | $61.20 | $101.40 | $120.30 |
| Patriot America Lite | Comprehensive Coverage | $50,000 | $250 | $75.60 | $114.00 | $132.60 |
Note: Plans are available to non-US citizens traveling to the USA or outside their home country, for US citizens the plans may have conditions that the insured need to be traveling outside the USA. Please read the policy document for details.
| Plan Name | Provider | Policy Maximum | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| VisitorSecure | World Trips | Up to $130,000 | Emergency Medical Evacuation ($50,000), Repatriation of Remains ($25,000), Local Burial & Cremation ($5,000), Common Carrier Accidental Death & Dismemberment ($25,000), COVID-19 coverage. |
| Visitors Care | International Medical Group (IMG) | $25,000 – $100,000 | Emergency medical treatment, Medical evacuation, Repatriation of remains, Accidental death and dismemberment, Emergency reunion, Return of minor children, Trip interruption, Lost luggage. |
| Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice | Seven Corners | Up to $1,000,000 | Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation ($250,000), Emergency Medical Reunion ($25,000), Incidental Trips to home country ($5,000), COVID-19 coverage, 24/7 Travel Assistance, Trip Interruption ($2,500). |
| Safe Travels USA Cost Saver | Trawick International | Up to $1,000,000 | Emergency Medical Evacuation ($2,000,000), Medically Necessary Repatriation ($15,000), Political Evacuation ($25,000), Natural Disaster Evacuation ($10,000), Emergency Reunion ($15,000), Repatriation of Mortal Remains ($50,000), Local Burial/Cremation ($5,000), Trip Interruption ($5,000). |
| Patriot America Lite | International Medical Group (IMG) | Up to $1,000,000 | Emergency Medical Evacuation ($1,000,000), Emergency Reunion ($100,000), Natural Disaster Evacuation ($25,000), Political Evacuation & Repatriation ($100,000), Return of Minor Children ($100,000), Terrorism ($50,000 lifetime max). |
VisitorSecure By World Trips
- World Trips introduces the savvy traveler to VisitorSecure, a plan that strikes a balance between affordability and essential travel medical insurance coverage.
- With policy maximum limits of up to $130,000, VisitorSecure caters to those who prioritize safety without the hefty price tag. The plan includes coverage for:
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Up to $50,000
- Repatriation Of Remains up to $25,000
- Local Burial and Cremation Up to $5,000
- Common Carrier Accidental Death & Dismemberment Up to $25,000
- COVID-19 coverage included
- This plan is a beacon for those seeking medical coverage for unforeseen illnesses and injuries while exploring far-flung destinations.
- While the plan is a limited coverage option, it offers a safety net that is crucial for those unexpected medical emergencies that can occur, especially when you’re miles away from home.
- It’s a testament to World Trips’ commitment to providing cheaper travel insurance without compromising on the core benefits that every traveler should have access to.
Visitors Care By International Medical Group (IMG Global)
- For travelers who are conscious of both their health and their wallet, Visitors Care by IMG Global emerges as an attractive proposition.
- This limited coverage plan doesn’t skimp on the essentials, offering policy maximum limits ranging from $25,000 to $100,000.
- It’s designed for those who want to ensure they have emergency medical coverage without overspending on their travel insurance.
- With Visitors Care, you’re not just buying insurance; you’re investing in peace of mind. The plan includes:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Accidental death and dismemberment
- Emergency reunion
- Return of minor children
- Trip interruption
- Lost luggage
- IMG Global understands that when it comes to travel medical insurance, one size does not fit all.
- That’s why they offer a plan that meets the basic needs while keeping the premium affordable, even for those who might already have a European Health Insurance Card.
Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice By Seven Corners
- Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice is a plan that’s as straightforward as its name suggests.
- Designed for the budget-savvy and health-conscious traveler, this limited-coverage plan offers a policy maximum limit of up to $1,000,000. Plan coverage includes:
- Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Up to $250,000
- Emergency Medical Reunion Up to $25,000
- Incidental Trips to home country $5,000
- Covid-19 coverage Included
- 24/7 Travel Assistance Services Included
- Trip Interruption coverage up to $2,500
- It’s a solid choice for those who seek essential travel medical insurance while exploring the popular destinations of the USA.
- The plan is tailored to meet the needs of business travelers and holiday-goers alike, ensuring that the most common travel medical exigencies are covered.
- It’s a practical solution from Seven Corners, a company that understands the need for cheap travel options that don’t compromise on necessary coverage.
Safe Travels USA Cost Saver By Trawick International
- Safe Travels USA Cost Saver by Trawick International is a comprehensive coverage plan that doesn’t cut corners.
- With a policy maximum limit of up to $1,000,000, this plan caters to the needs of travelers who require extensive protection, including trip cancellation coverage, interruption, and baggage insurance. Policy covers:
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Up to $2,000,000
- Medically Necessary Repatriation Up to $15,000
- Political Evacuation Up to $25,000
- Natural Disaster Evacuation Up to $10,000
- Emergency Reunion Up to $15,000
- Repatriation of Mortal Remains Up to $50,000
- Local Burial / Cremation Up to $5,000
- Trip Interruption Up to $5,000
- It’s an ideal choice for those who want to be prepared for almost any eventuality without incurring an exorbitant travel insurance cost.
- Trawick International has crafted a plan that addresses the common concerns of travelers, from lost luggage to travel delays, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about what could go wrong.
- The Safe Travels USA Cost Saver is a standout option for those who seek the best of both worlds: comprehensive coverage at a price that won’t derail your travel budget while keeping your overall trip cost in check.
Patriot America Lite By International Medical Group (IMG Global)
- For those who desire a more comprehensive safety net, Patriot America Lite by IMG Global stands out as a top-rated plan with PPO network access to United Healthcare PPO
- This plan boasts a policy maximum limit of up to a staggering $1,000,000, offering an extensive range of coverage that goes above and beyond the basics. Plan coverage includes:
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Up to $1,000,000
- Emergency Reunion Up to $100,000
- Natural Disaster Evacuation UP to $25,000 Maximum
- Political Evacuation and Repatriation Up to $100,000
- Return Of Minor Children Up to $100,000
- Terrorism Up to $ 50,000 Lifetime maximum
- It’s a beacon for travelers looking for robust protection that aligns with a myriad of potential travel-related health concerns.
- Patriot America Lite is a testament to IMG Global’s commitment to providing travel medical insurance that caters to a wider audience, including those who venture into adventure sports or remote areas where medical facilities may be scarce.
- With this plan, IMG Global ensures that travelers can embark on their journeys with the highest level of medical coverage, without the premium price tag one might expect from such extensive coverage.
Top Travel Insurance Companies
| Travel Insurance Provider | Popular Plans | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| World Trips | Atlas America, Atlas International Premium, Atlas Essential America, Atlas Group Plan, Atlas Multi-Trip Plan, Atlas Premium. | Tailored for a wide range of travelers, from extreme sports to winter sports enthusiasts. Offers plans for diverse travel experiences like sailing, trekking, safari, skiing, etc. |
| International Medical Group (IMG) | Visitors Care, Patriot America Lite, Patriot America Plus, Patriot Platinum International, Patriot Platinum America, Visitors Protect (covers Pre-Ex Conditions). | Acclaimed Patriot series, focuses on providing travel protection for international travelers with plans for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and health-related contingencies. |
| Seven Corners | Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice, Seven Corners Travel Medical Basic – USA | Known for affordability with comprehensive coverage, designed for solo and group travelers. Offers health and safety coverage, tailored to diverse travel needs. |
| Trawick International | Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, Safe Travels USA, Safe Travels USA Cost Saver, Safe Travels International, Safe Travels International Cost Saver. | Offers competitive pricing with comprehensive coverage, including medical, trip cancellation, baggage protection, and lost luggage coverage. |
World Trips
To better understand the providers behind these plans, we commence with World Trips, previously known as the reputable HCC Tokio Marine.
Apart from VisitorSecure World Trips is known for its popular Atlas travel series of plans.
World Trips has carved a niche in the travel insurance industry by offering plans that cater to a wide range of travelers, from those leaping with extreme sports to the more serene winter sports enthusiasts.
Their plans include:
- Atlas America
- Atlas International Premium
- Atlas Essential America
- Atlas Group Plan
- Atlas Multi-Trip Plan
- Atlas Premium
Their reputation for reliability and customization makes them a go-to insurance provider for those seeking a plan that can be tailored to their every travel whim.
With a focus on providing travel protection for every adventure, World Trips stands out for its ability to cover a diverse array of travel experiences. Whether you’re:
- Sailing the high seas
- Trekking through the mountains
- Exploring ancient ruins
- Backpacking through Europe
- Going on a safari
- Skiing down the slopes
World Trips has a plan that promises to keep you safe, ensuring that your travel insurance cover is as versatile as your itinerary.
International Medical Group (IMG)
International Medical Group (IMG) is a titan in the realm of travel insurance, with its highly acclaimed Patriot series leading the charge.
Apart from Visitors Care and Patriot America Lite IMG offers the Patriot Series of plans, their popular plans include:
- Patriot America Plus
- Patriot Platinum International
- Patriot Platinum America
- Visitors Protect (covers Pre-Ex Conditions)
IMG’s global footprint is a testament to its commitment to providing top-notch travel medical insurance that resonates with the needs of international voyagers.
IMG’s prowess in the insurance industry is not just in the policies it offers but also in the peace of mind it bestows upon its clients.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, IMG’s plans are designed to cushion you from the financial impact of unexpected health issues, trip cancellations, and other travel-related contingencies, making it a trusted companion for your sojourns.
Seven Corners International
Transitioning to Seven Corners, a US-based beacon in the international travel insurance arena, we find a provider that marries affordability with comprehensive coverage.
Seven Corners has earned its stripes by offering a suite of popular travel medical plans that appeal to a broad demographic of travelers. Their Plans include:
Whether you’re venturing out on a solo expedition or with a group, Seven Corners assures that your health and safety are in capable hands.
The company’s travel medical plans stand out for their reliability and ability to offer peace of mind to travelers.
Seven Corners’ reputation is built on a foundation of trust and a commitment to delivering travel insurance plans that are not just competitively priced but also tailored to meet the diverse needs of today’s roving adventurers.
Trawick International
Trawick International completes our quartet of travel insurance providers.
They offer competitively priced plans that don’t skimp on coverage, including comprehensive medical, trip cancellation, and baggage protection.
Their travel insurance plans include:
- Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
- Safe Travels USA
- Safe Travels USA Cost Saver
- Safe Travels International
- Safe Travels International Cost Saver
Trawick’s mission is to ensure that travelers can experience the world without the weight of financial worries should the unexpected occur.
The comprehensiveness of Trawick’s offerings is a testament to their understanding of the traveler’s psyche. By addressing the most common travel concerns, Trawick International ensures that your trip remains as uninterrupted as possible. Their offerings include:
- Health emergency coverage
- Lost luggage protection
- Trip interruption insurance
- Affordable options for budget-conscious travelers
Tips For Finding Cheap Travel Insurance
While being aware of the top travel insurance plans is vital, it’s of equal importance to comprehend how to secure the best deal matching your specific requirements.
Navigating the sea of insurance options can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can anchor yourself to a plan that offers the best value for money.
Let’s explore some practical tips that can help you in your quest for affordable travel insurance.
Utilizing travel insurance comparison sites is a savvy first step, as these platforms consolidate quotes from multiple providers, allowing you to review and compare plans side by side.
Furthermore, you can tailor your search to your specific travel needs, ensuring that you don’t pay for coverage you won’t use. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where cost-efficiency meets adequate protection.
Traveling to the USA? Here are some tips to lower the cost of and save money on travel insurance
Compare Quotes Online
In the digital era, comparing travel insurance quotes online has become more effortless than ever before.
Comparison sites are invaluable tools that provide a birds-eye view of various insurance options, helping you to pinpoint the plan that offers the coverage you need at a price that aligns with your budget.
Moreover, these sites often offer specialized features, such as filters for policies with COVID-19 coverage, allowing you to customize your search further.
By comparing different plans, you can avoid the pitfall of purchasing overlapping coverage and ensure that you’re only paying for the benefits you genuinely require.
This approach not only saves you money but also equips you with the knowledge to make an informed decision when you buy travel insurance.
Choose The Right Coverage Level
Selecting the appropriate coverage level necessitates an insightful understanding of your travel requirements and is akin to a balancing act.
It’s essential to assess what unpredictable expenses you cannot afford, such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations, and tailor your insurance coverage accordingly.
This might mean prioritizing emergency medical coverage and evacuation over trip interruption coverage if your main concern is medical expenses.
Remember, the goal is not to find the cheapest travel insurance but rather the most cost-effective plan that provides the coverage you truly need.
By being selective about the coverage levels, you can ensure that you’re not overpaying for superfluous benefits while still having the essential protections in place.
Consider Annual Multi-Trip Plans
For frequent flyers, annual multi-trip plans could significantly alter the game.
These plans offer coverage for multiple trips within 12 months, often resulting in significant cost savings and the convenience of not having to purchase a new policy for each trip.
It’s a more efficient way to manage your travel insurance needs, especially if you’re a business traveler or a serial vacationer.
The beauty of annual multi-trip plans lies in their simplicity and the breadth of coverage they offer.
By consolidating your travel insurance needs into one policy, you can streamline your planning process, save money, and enjoy continuous protection throughout the year.
Check Existing Coverage
Before hastily buying a new travel insurance policy, it’s prudent to review your current insurance coverage.
Often, travelers may already have some form of protection through their health, homeowners, or rental insurance policies, which could make certain travel insurance coverages redundant.
Additionally, exploring the travel benefits provided by your credit cards can reveal hidden gems like trip cancellation and car rental insurance that can serve as supplementary coverage.
By reviewing your existing policies and benefits, you can pinpoint areas where you may already be covered and avoid paying extra for overlapping coverage.
This step not only ensures that you’re adequately protected but also that you’re not incurring unnecessary expenses on your travel insurance plan.
Customizing Your Travel Insurance Plan
Customization plays a pivotal role when aiming for a travel insurance plan that fits your requirements perfectly. By selecting specific coverage options, such as policy maximums, deductibles, and add-ons for activities like adventure sports, you can craft a policy that mirrors your unique travel needs.
This bespoke approach to travel insurance means you pay only for the coverage you deem necessary, such as extra protection for personal belongings or round-the-clock emergency assistance services.
The process can be simplified by working with licensed insurance agents, who can provide expert advice on comparing plans and understanding intricate policy details.
Alternatively, travel insurance comparison sites offer the convenience of tailoring policies from multiple providers, ensuring you get the best possible coverage at the most reasonable price.
The result? A travel insurance plan that’s as individual as your travel itinerary.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions And Travel Insurance
Although securing travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions might appear daunting, it isn’t necessarily an overwhelming endeavor.
Travelers with stable medical conditions can find coverage if they purchase their insurance within a designated timeframe after their initial trip deposit.
It’s crucial to act quickly as securing your travel insurance shortly after making your first trip payment can ensure that your pre-existing conditions are covered.
Providers such as INFPlans stand out for their coverage of pre-existing conditions, while Hop Travel Assistance offers plans like Hop Mindoro and Hop Trip Assist Plus, suitable for those with light to moderate pre-existing conditions.
It’s important to review the criteria for pre-existing condition coverage carefully and choose a provider that offers the necessary protection, ensuring you can travel with peace of mind.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Coverage Cost
| Plan Name | Policy Maximum | Deductible Options | Age 45 Years | Age 50 Years | Age 60 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| INF Elite | $150,000 | $250 | $745.80 | $1,100.40 | $1,568.40 |
| Visitors Protect | $150,000 | $250 | $606.60 | $900.90 | $1,288.80 |
| INF Premier | $150,000 | $250 | $333.60 | $441.60 | $474.00 |
| Hop Trip Assist Plus | $150,000 | $250 | $624.60 | $931.50 | $1,332.90 |
| Hop Mindoro | $75,000 | $250 | $154.80 | $214.20 | $333.00 |
Other Comprehensive Travel Insurance Plans To Consider
| Plan Name | Policy Maximum | Deductible Option | Age 45 Years | Age 50 Years | Age 60 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels USA Comprehensive | $50,000 | $250 | $72.60 | $119.70 | $139.30 |
| Patriot America Plus | $50,000 | $250 | $74.70 | $120.90 | $140.40 |
| Atlas America | $50,000 | $250 | $78.90 | $130.80 | $166.50 |
Conclusion – Cheap Travel Insurance
As we conclude our exploration of affordable travel insurance, the age-old wisdom resurfaces – taking precautionary measures is indeed more beneficial than remedial actions.
Travel insurance is more than just a safety net; it’s an investment in your peace of mind, especially for international trips or travel to remote locations with limited healthcare.
By considering the top plans like:
- VisitorSecure
- Visitors Care
- Seven Corners Travel Medical USA Visitor Choice
- Patriot America Lite
- Safe Travels USA Cost Saver
Along with the expert tips provided, you are now equipped to make an informed decision when it comes to protecting your travel adventures. Whether you’re facing medical emergencies or trip cancellations, travel insurance is your guardian angel, ensuring that your experiences remain joyful and your memories are untarnished by the unforeseen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does travel insurance typically cost?
Travel insurance typically costs about 5% to 10% of a trip’ cost, it’s important to consider this expense when planning for your trip.
Which are the cheapest travel insurance companies?
Travel insurance companies are better looked at from the angle of being top-rated and offering travel insurance plans that provide adequate coverage. Travel insurance companies offer a mixed bag of products from affordable plans to comprehensive coverage plans. Some reputed travel insurance companies include IMG, Seven Corners, Trawick International, and World Trips.
What factors influence the cost of travel insurance?
Several factors influence the cost of travel insurance, such as trip length, healthcare expenses, pre-existing medical conditions, coverage scope, traveler’s age, and optional benefits.
Can I find travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes, some travel insurance providers offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, with specific criteria to be met, such as purchasing the policy before departure from the home country and, a minimum of 90 days of coverage. For example, INF Elite and INF Premier provide coverage for a pre-existing medical condition. You can explore more travel insurance plans for pre-existing conditions.
Are annual multi-trip plans more cost-effective than single-trip insurance?
Yes, annual multi-trip plans are more cost-effective than single-trip insurance, offering significant cost savings and convenience for frequent travelers.
How can I customize my travel insurance plan?
You can customize your travel insurance plan by selecting specific coverage types, generating as many free quotes, and comparing plans on a comparison site like OnshoreKare. This will ensure that you have the right coverage for your specific travel requirements.
