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Travel Insurance: What It Really Covers (and What It Doesn't)

  • Writer: David Loyless
    David Loyless
  • Aug 28, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 12, 2025


A traveler watches from his gate as a plane takes off
Understanding the basics of travel insurance can help avoid you avoid stress know you are covered.

Why Travel Insurance Matters


From trekking in the Andes to cruising the Galápagos, travel insurance isn't an upsell -- it's your safety net.


Travel insurance often feels like that boring seatbelt you forget you’re wearing — until you really need it. Yet, it’s one of the most misunderstood elements of travel planning. Here’s what our clients — from Patagonia explorers to Portugal foodies — often ask.



What It Usually Covers


  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption: If a family emergency keeps you from that Peru adventure or forces you home mid-safari, you’re reimbursed for nonrefundable costs.

  • Medical Emergencies Abroad: Essential in remote places like the Okavango or the Andes, where evacuation alone can run into the tens of thousands.

  • Lost or Delayed Bags: A lifesaver if your trekking boots don’t make it to Patagonia when you do.



What It Often Doesn't


  • Changing Your Mind: Deciding not to go? That’s usually on you — unless you have “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) coverage.

  • High-Risk Activities: Some policies exclude adventure sports (diving, mountaineering, or even high-altitude trekking). Always read the fine print.

  • Known Events: Once a storm is named or a political event is declared, new policies won’t cover it.



Choosing the Right Policy


We recommend policies that include the following:


  • Medical evacuation at a minimum of $100,000

  • Trip interruption protection

  • Pre-existing condition waivers, when applicable.


For some trips like expedition cruises and safaris, CFAR upgrades can be worth the peace of mind.


Bottom line? It’s less about fear and more about freedom — the freedom to enjoy your journey knowing you’re covered.



Related Resource


Read our Carry-On Packing Guide for tips on keeping your essentials with you -- a huge help if luggage ever goes missing.



Travel with True Peace of Mind


We help our travelers choose policies that fit their itinerary -- and their risk comfort level. Ask us about travel insurance when you start planning your next adventure.

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