Best Travel Insurance for Seniors
The best travel insurance plans for seniors offer comprehensive, specialized coverage, affordable rates, and helpful customer service.
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- Additional coverage for preexisting conditions with select plans
- Wide variety of customizable plans
- High coverage limits
- Plans available for seniors up to 99 years old
- Can be purchased as close as one day prior to departure
- Affordable plans and group discounts
- 14-day refund in most states
- Comprehensive coverage for baggage and personal items
- Excellent customer service
- Free online quotes
- Affordable cruise insurance
- Hassle-free claims process
Contents
If you plan on traveling abroad or domestically, we recommend purchasing travel insurance for some added peace of mind. Travel insurance offers protection when you find yourself in an unexpected situation, such as an injury that requires emergency medical care, lost luggage, or canceled flights.
If you’re on the fence about purchasing travel insurance, we’ll go over some of the reasons why you might benefit from it. With affordable rates you’ll find that travel insurance can help reduce the stress of traveling and incurring unexpected out-of-pocket costs. Our team spent over 50 hours researching and comparing plans. We evaluated each plan using important factors like cost, customer service, plan options, amount of coverage, and more.
Let’s take a closer look at the best travel insurance providers for seniors.
Best Travel Insurance for Seniors in 2024
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1. Allianz - Best pre-existing medical condition protection
What we like most
- Additional coverage for preexisting conditions with select plans
- Wide variety of customizable plans
- High coverage limits
Overview:Allianz Global Assistance has been a trusted travel insurance provider for over 100 years. We chose Allianz because many of their policies offer protection for those with preexisting medical conditions. If you’re a senior with a preexisting condition, you’ll be covered if you need care or services while traveling. This coverage is only available with select plans, and there are some exclusions.
Fun Fact: Allianz is best known for their role in insuring the Wright Brothers’ first flight and the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, among many other historical milestones.
Allianz offers 24/7 assistance and a variety of plans, whether you’re planning a single trip or annual trip with many destinations. One of their most popular plans is the OneTrip Prime, which provides free coverage for children 17 and under when traveling with a parent or grandparent.
Coverage
Allianz offers 10 different plans depending on how often you travel, or if you’re traveling for leisure or business. For example, their OneTrip Prime plan offers the following coverages:
- Epidemic coverage endorsement
- Trip cancellation (up to $100,000)
- Trip interruption (up to $150,000 per insured)
- Emergency medical (up to $50,000 per insured)
- Emergency medical transportation (up to $500,000 per insured)
- Baggage loss/damage up to $1,000 (per insured)
- Baggage delay up to $300 (per insured)
- Travel delay up to $800 (per insured)
- 24-hour hotline assistance
- Concierge services
- OneTrip Rental Car Protector optional upgrade
- Required to work optional upgrade
- Preexisting medical condition coverage available
Pros & Cons:Pros About Allianz
- Over 21 million insured travelers
- High coverage amounts
- High trip cancellation amounts
- Rental car coverage
- 24/7 hotline assistance for travel emergencies and assistance
- Preexisting medical condition coverage on select plans
- Wide range of travel insurance plans for leisure or business
- Free Allianz TravelSmart app for iPhone and Android
Cons About Allianz
- Up to 30 days for claim reviews
- Rental car damage and theft coverage not available to KS, TX, NY, and WA residents on an annual plan
Summary:Final Thoughts
Along with a vast selection of travel insurance plans and high coverage amounts, Allianz is great for seniors who are planning single or multiple trips throughout the year. Keep in mind that select coverages and benefits may not be available to residents in some states.
Overall, Allianz offers exceptional coverage for seniors with preexisting medical conditions, emergency medical benefits up to $50,000, and 24/7 hotline assistance for any travel emergencies or questions you may have.
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2. International Medical Group - Best for international travelers
What we like most
- Plans available for seniors up to 99 years old
- Can be purchased as close as one day prior to departure
- Affordable plans and group discounts
Overview:Overview
Established in 1990 in Indianapolis, Indiana, International Medical Group (IMG) is known for offering quality global insurance benefits and assistance for seniors who travel internationally. One of the benefits of this company is that they offer a wide range of international medical insurance and 24/7 emergency medical assistance for travelers.
Fun Fact: IMG’s GlobeHopper Senior travel health insurance plan offers an option for the extension of coverage for seniors who wish to extend their trips.
IMG earned our pick as the best international travel insurance for their affordable rates for longer trips, as well as comprehensive coverage for medical expenses and evacuation. We appreciate that IMG offers the GlobeHopper Senior, temporary health insurance for travelers ages 65 and up traveling internationally. This plan offers travel medical insurance coverage for as little as five days up to one year, along with maximum limits up to $1 million. Additionally, IMG offers travel medical insurance for individuals, families, and groups, including coverage for seniors with preexisting conditions. Many of the policies also have maximum limits of up to $8 million — which is one of the highest limits we’ve seen for travel insurance.
Coverage
IMG offers four comprehensive plans for vacationers and business travelers. Their most popular package is the iTravelInsured Travel LX, which offers the following coverages.
- Trip cancellation: 100 percent of the nonrefundable insured trip cost
- Trip interruption: 150 percent of the nonrefundable insured trip cost
- Cancel for any reason: 75 percent of the nonrefundable insured trip cost
- Trip interruption for any reason: 75 percent of the nonrefundable insured trip cost
- Trip delay (up to $250 per day)
- Change fee (up to $300 per person)
- Frequent traveler reward (up to $75 per person)
- Rental car damage and theft coverage (up to $40,000 per covered vehicle)
- Missed trip connection (up to $500 per person)
- Traveling companion/bedside companion (up to $200 per day)
- Pet kennel ($100 per day)
- Search and rescue (up to $10,000)
- Political or security evacuation and natural disaster evacuation ($50,000 per event per person)
- Baggage and personal effects ($2,500)
- Sports equipment rental (up to $500 daily)
- Baggage delay of at least 12 hours (up to $500)
- Accident and sickness medical and dental expense (up to $500,000 per person)
- Accident death and dismemberment (up to $100,000)
Pros & Cons:Pros About International Medical Group
- Plans offered to travelers up to the age of 99
- Can be purchased up to one day before departure
- Affordable minimum trip cost to be insured
- 24/7 assistance
- Lowest price guaranteed
- Affordable plans for international travel
- Group discounts
- Higher coverage limits
- Claims filed via website or mail
Cons About International Medical Group
- Some travel insurance plans can only cover 90-day trips
- Might need to purchase separate travel medical insurance and international health insurance
Summary:Final Thoughts
IMG offers travel insurance plans for seniors up to age 99 who want to travel internationally. IMG is ideal for both vacationers and business travelers. Additionally, IMG offers 24/7 emergency travel assistance and a preexisting condition review period of 60 days. If you’re a senior going on a cruise or guided tour internationally, we recommend purchasing travel medical coverage through IMG.
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3. John Hancock - Best comprehensive travel insurance coverage for seniors
What we like most
- 14-day refund in most states
- Comprehensive coverage for baggage and personal items
- Excellent customer service
Overview:Overview
As an insurance provider for over 160 years, many people trust John Hancock for their investment, retirement, financial, and insurance products. John Hancock offers streamlined travel insurance packages for older adults who plan to travel internationally with ample protection. Although on the pricier side, older adults can choose from three plans ranked Gold, Silver, and Bronze depending on how much coverage they’d like for their travels. Currently, John Hancock’s plans feature comprehensive coverage including trip cancellation, trip delays, emergency accident and sickness medical coverage, and more. They also offer high coverage options and greater protection for seniors who want 24/7 assistance.
FYI: If you purchase a travel insurance plan through John Hancock within the first 14 days of booking your trip, you can get the best coverage options.
Coverage
Depending on your unique situation, age, and duration of travel, you can customize a quote online and choose from three different plan tiers: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. The Silver plan offers the following coverages:
- Trip cancellation (up to 100 percent of trip cost)
- Trip interruption (up to 150 percent of trip cost)
- Trip cancellation for any reason (up to 75 percent of nonrefundable trip cost)
- Airline ticket change fee (minimum 1-hour delay $200)
- Missed connections ($750)
- Trip delay ($150 per day; maximum $750)
- Baggage delay (maximum $500; daily limit of $500)
- Baggage/personal effects (up to $1,000; per article: $250; maximum for property: $1,000)
- Accidental death and dismemberment (up to $100,000)
- Emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense (up to $100,000)
- Emergency medical evacuation and medically necessary repatriation (up to $500,000)
- Repatriation of remains (up to $500,000)
- Preexisting conditions waiver
- Frequent travel loyalty (up to $200)
Pros & Cons:Pros About John Hancock
- High coverage limits
- Coverage for travelers with preexisting conditions
- Frequent travel loyalty perks
- Trip cancellation and trip interruption coverages
- Excellent customer service
- 24/7 travel assistance
- 14-day refund in most states
Cons About John Hancock
- Limited plans
- Some of the travel insurance plans can be expensive
- Need to speak with a licensed agent to get more information
- 14-day refund not available in states like IN, NH, and UT
Summary:Final Thoughts
John Hancock offers peace of mind and solid travel insurance plans for older adults who plan to travel alone or with their families. If you’re not satisfied or change your mind, you can call to cancel the purchase within 14 days of the effective date. John Hancock offers streamlined travel insurance coverage options — perfect for that cruise or international trip you’ve been dreaming about! Keep in mind that all travelers must reside in the same U.S. state to share a John Hancock policy.
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4. Nationwide - Best cruise travel insurance plans
What we like most
- Free online quotes
- Affordable cruise insurance
- Hassle-free claims process
Overview:Overview
Nationwide has been around since 1925, offering insurance, investing, and retirement products for individuals and businesses. Nationwide offers some of the best affordable cruise travel insurance plans for older adults that we’ve seen. If you’re planning a cruise with your family or friends, we recommend looking into three of their cruise plans: the Universal Cruise, Choice Cruise, and Luxury Cruise plans.
Did You Know? If you’re looking into other insurance policies for dental, vision, life insurance, check out our guide to insurance for seniors in 2024.
The Choice and Luxury Cruise plans offer coverage for preexisting conditions. Plus, you can easily modify and add coverage even if you’ve already purchased a plan. One thing to remember: Not all coverage is available in all states, so you’ll have to check with a local travel insurance agent.
Coverage
Nationwide offers single trip, annual trip, and cruise insurance. For cruise insurance, we recommend the Choice Cruise plan, as it’s flexible and affordable. Here’s what the plan covers:
- Trip cancellation (up to 100 percent of nonrefundable trip costs)
- Trip interruption (up to 150 percent of nonrefundable trip costs)
- Interruption for any reason ($500)
- Missed connection/trip delay ($1,500/$750)
- Itinerary changes ($200-$500)
- Emergency accident and sickness medical expense ($100,000)
- Accidental death and dismemberment ($25,000)
- Preexisting condition waiver (if purchased within 14 days of trip)
- Baggage and personal effects ($2,500 maximum, $600 maximum for special items, $300 per article limit of $500)
- Key cancellation/interruption covered reasons
- Cancel for any reason
- Non-medical evacuation ($25,000)
- Refund policy: 10-day review period
Pros & Cons:Pros About Nationwide
- Member of the US Travel Insurance Association
- Travel insurance plans for cruises, single- and multi-trips
- Hassle-free claims
- Free online quotes
- Affordable travel insurance rates
- Flexible annual trip plans start at $59
Cons About Nationwide
- Cruise plan refund policy not available in NY or WA
- Lower trip interruption limits compared to other providers (125 percent for Essential plan single trip)
- Some plans may have nonrefundable processing fees
Summary:Final Thoughts
Nationwide provides a variety of options for senior travelers, whether you’re flying to a new destination or cruising. The company has high coverage amounts, including a 10-day review period for refunds on some of its cruise plans. If your trip is canceled, you’ll be reimbursed for up to 100 percent of the nonrefundable trip cost.
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5. Travel Guard - Best for specialized coverages
Overview:Overview
As one of the world’s leading travel insurance companies, Travel Guard provides specialized coverages for older adults at affordable prices. Along with travel medical and concierge assistance, Travel Guard has responsive customer service and optional add-on coverages.
FYI: To get a preexisting medical conditions exclusion waiver through Travel Guard, you’ll have to purchase it within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
The provider offers three travel insurance plans: the Essential, Preferred, and Deluxe plans, with high coverage amounts up to $1 million. Coverage offerings include trip cancellation, baggage coverage, and travel medical expenses, along with specialized coverages such as car rental, medevac, and lodging expenses.
Coverage
Travel Guard offers the following coverage for their Preferred plan — one of their most popular plans.
- Trip cancellation (up to 100 percent of trip cost)
- Cancel for any reason (optional add-on)
- Trip interruption (up to 150 percent of trip cost)
- Baggage coverage (up to $1,000)
- Baggage delay (up to $300)
- Travel medical expense (up to $50,000)
- Travel inconvenience
- Medevac (up to $500,000)
- Car rental (optional add-on)
- Lodging expense (optional add-on)
- Trip saver
- Trip exchange
- Security evac (optional add-on)
- Preexisting medical conditions exclusion waiver
Pros & Cons:Pros About Travel Guard
- One of the world’s leading travel insurance companies
- Free online quotes
- Specialized coverages
- Easy and fast claim process
- Family coverage options
- Preexisting medical condition exclusion waiver
- Cancel for any reason (up to 48 hours prior to departure)
- Travel insurance plans currently available in all states
Cons About Travel Guard
- Some plans don’t offer flight guard, security evacuation, trip saver, trip exchange, or other specialized coverages
Summary:Final Thoughts
Travel Guard offers a variety of affordable travel insurance plans for families, seniors, and those who frequently travel. If you’re looking for specialized coverages with higher coverage limits up to $1,000,000, we’d recommend looking into Travel Guard’s three travel insurance plans. Keep in mind that if you think you may need a preexisting medical conditions exclusion waiver, you’ll need to purchase it within 15 days of the initial trip payment.
Money-Saving Tip: Looking for ways to save on an upcoming trip? Check out our senior discounts guide to learn how you can save on hotels, cruises, transportation, and more!
For travelers looking for higher coverage limits, you can get up to $750 to $2,500 for baggage coverage and up to $100,000 for travel medical expense coverage. One of the perks of purchasing travel insurance through Travel Guard is that they are available in all states. You can also purchase an annual plan if you are looking for coverage for multiple trips throughout the year.
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Seniors Travel Insurance
When choosing the best travel insurance providers, we considered the following criteria.
- Coverages: We chose travel insurance providers that offer the best comprehensive coverage with higher limits for trip cancellations, emergency medical transportation, and baggage delay.
- Specialized coverages: We focused on companies that have optional or additional specialized coverages like car rentals or accidental death and dismemberment.
- Preexisting medical conditions: Our list features some providers that offer preexisting medical condition waivers.
- Cruise coverage: The companies on our list offer cruise coverage along with traditional travel insurance.
- Financial standing: It’s important to choose a provider with an excellent financial portfolio. We selected providers with above-average ratings by reputable ranking agencies.
- Customer service: We assessed the ease of use of navigating each insurance provider’s mobile app and claims processing center. We also evaluated how easy it was to obtain free online quotes and contact customer service.
- Affordability: The providers on our list offer budget-friendly coverage for seniors over the age of 65 and their families.
Comparing the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors
To give you a better idea of prices, we researched the average costs of travel insurance for older adults from each of our top providers. We obtained quotes for 65-year-olds on a two-week trip to Italy with an $8,000 travel budget.
| Provider | Plan name | Price (per insured) for 65-year-olds |
|---|---|---|
| Allianz | OneTrip Prime | $576 |
| International Medical Group | iTravelInsured Travel LX | $896.64 |
| John Hancock | Silver plan | $640 |
| Nationwide | Essential Plan | $660.35 |
| Travel Guard | Preferred Plan | $503.17 |
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
Many travel insurance plans cover the following benefits, with options for specialized or add-on coverages:
- Trip cancellation: Receive a reimbursement if you need to cancel your trip.
- Trip interruption: If your trip is interrupted, you can get reimbursed for the nonrefundable amount of your trip and the cost of transportation per insured person.
- Travel delay: You can get reimbursed a certain amount per day if your trip is delayed for a specified period of time.
- Cancel for any reason: Receive a refund for a portion of your trip expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a death in the family or other situation.
- Baggage delay: If your baggage is delayed for a specified period of time, you may receive reimbursement for the hours delayed and if you need to purchase specific items due to the delay.
- Emergency medical: If you have dental or medical emergencies while traveling, this benefit can cover these expenses.
- Car rental: As an add-on, you can get car rental insurance to help cover the cost of rental car damages and other expenses if you get into an accident.
- Medical evacuation: Also known as medevac, this optional coverage provides emergency medical transportation if you need to be airlifted.
- Accidental death and dismemberment: If you die during your travels as a result of accidental death or dismemberment, your beneficiary would receive certain benefits.
- Repatriation of remains: If a traveler passes away during your trip, this benefit will cover the cost of returning them home.
- Preexisting medical condition waiver: Some insurance carriers offer coverage for those with preexisting medical conditions.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for Seniors?
Based on our research after obtaining online quotes from five different travel insurance providers, we found that the average cost of travel insurance is $655.23 per insured person when you plan to spend around $8,000 for an international trip. While this might seem steep, travel insurance can help you avoid thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses during an emergency. According to Forbes, the average cost of travel insurance is roughly six percent of your overall trip costs and is dependent on the amount you plan to spend on your trip.
Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Seniors
When planning a trip, it’s important to compare travel insurance quotes to make sure you get the best deal. It’s better to plan ahead and enjoy the rest of your trip knowing you’ve purchased the best travel insurance for your needs. We’ve compiled a list of tips on how to choose the best travel insurance below:
- Coverage: Many insurance providers will highlight one of their best value plans to help you stay under budget. If cost is your main concern, choose a plan that offers the minimum coverage with the option of adding additional coverage if needed.
- Preexisting conditions: Not all providers offer preexisting conditions waivers, so it’s important to research and inquire about this if you’re so affected.
- Discounts: Agencies like AARP may offer senior discounts and travel savings if you’re a member. Consider these discounts on top of your travel insurance purchases.
- Medical expenses: Look into comprehensive travel insurance plans that offer substantial medical coverage. Some plans may require you to purchase separate travel medical insurance.
- Compare providers: Get quotes from multiple providers and compare rates and coverage. Think about the benefits that are the most important to you, along with your budget, and choose a plan accordingly
- 24/7 assistance: Some companies offer 24/7 assistance, which is essential when traveling in different time zones. Also, check to see if your provider offers concierge services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seniors Travel Insurance
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Why is it important to get travel insurance?
Travel insurance helps protect you and your loved ones if you experience a health emergency while traveling. It can also protect and help reimburse you if your trip gets canceled, or you lose your baggage during the trip.
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Does Medicare cover you when you’re out of the country?
Medicare does not offer health care services that you receive outside of the U.S. This is why it’s important to purchase a travel insurance policy for more coverage.
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What’s not covered by travel insurance?
Some insurance providers won’t offer coverage for preexisting conditions, losses due to war, or inability to afford the trip.