Core Insights - Travel insurance is a valuable investment for travelers, providing financial protection against unexpected issues such as trip cancellations, interruptions, lost baggage, and emergency medical care [1][2] Types of Coverage - Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse up to 100% of prepaid and non-refundable expenses if a trip is canceled for a covered reason [3] - Trip interruption insurance covers prepaid expenses if a trip is cut short due to qualifying incidents [4] - Emergency medical insurance covers medical bills incurred while traveling, especially in countries where U.S. health insurance is not applicable [4] - Medical evacuation and repatriation insurance covers costs for emergency medical transport and return home for treatment [5] - Lost and delayed baggage insurance reimburses for essentials or lost items during travel [6] - Travel delay insurance covers necessary expenses incurred due to significant travel delays [7] Coverage Limitations - Travel insurance does not cover cancellations for any reason, losses related to illegal activities, or preexisting medical conditions unless a waiver is added [9][10] - Known epidemics and pandemics are typically excluded from coverage [11] Cost of Travel Insurance - The cost of travel insurance ranges from 4% to 8% of the total trip cost, with premiums varying based on trip expenses and other factors [10] Purchasing Travel Insurance - Travelers can obtain travel insurance through insurance companies, travel carriers, tour companies, or credit cards [13] - It is advisable to compare multiple plans to find the best coverage for individual needs [12][20] Choosing the Right Policy - The right travel insurance policy depends on the type of trip, destination, and individual risk tolerance [14][15] - Travelers should assess their existing coverage and understand policy exclusions before purchasing [18]