Travel insurance is one of those purchases that feels like throwing money away until the moment you need it. A medical emergency in a country without universal healthcare, a trip cancellation due to illness, lost luggage containing irreplaceable items -- these are the scenarios that transform travel insurance from an annoying expense into a financial lifesaver.

The problem is that the travel insurance market is crowded, confusing, and full of fine print designed to limit what actually gets covered. After researching policies, reading claims data, and interviewing travelers who have actually filed claims, here are honest reviews of the 10 best travel insurance companies in 2026.

What to Look For in Travel Insurance

Before comparing companies, understand the key coverage categories:

Trip cancellation: Reimburses prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you cancel for a covered reason (illness, injury, death in family, severe weather, airline bankruptcy)
Trip interruption: Covers additional costs if your trip is cut short (emergency flight home, unused hotel nights)
Emergency medical: Pays for medical treatment abroad. This is the most critical coverage for international travelers, as most US health insurance does not cover care outside the country
Medical evacuation: Covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest adequate medical facility or back home. Medical evacuations can cost $50,000-$300,000 depending on location
Baggage loss/delay: Reimburses you for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage and contents
Travel delay: Covers meals, accommodation, and transportation costs when flights are delayed beyond a specified threshold (usually 6-12 hours)

The 10 Best Travel Insurance Companies

1. World Nomads

Best for: Adventure travelers, backpackers, and those who need coverage for extreme sports

World Nomads has built its reputation on covering activities that most insurers exclude: bungee jumping, scuba diving below 40 meters, rock climbing, surfing, and motorcycle riding. They offer two plan levels -- Standard and Explorer -- with the Explorer plan covering the most extreme activities.

Key coverage (Explorer plan):

Emergency medical: $100,000
Medical evacuation: $500,000
Trip cancellation: $10,000
Baggage: $3,000
Adventure sports: 200+ activities covered

Price: $80-$200 for a 2-week international trip (varies by age and destination)

Claims process: Online submission with typically 10-15 business day processing. Reviews are mixed -- straightforward claims (trip cancellation with documentation) are processed smoothly, but complex medical claims can require extensive follow-up.

Verdict: The go-to choice for adventure travelers, but medical coverage limits ($100,000) are lower than competitors. If you are traveling to the US or other countries with expensive healthcare, consider a supplement.

2. SafetyWing

Best for: Digital nomads, long-term travelers, and remote workers

SafetyWing operates on a subscription model rather than a traditional policy. You pay a monthly fee (starting at $45.08/month for ages 18-39) and can start, pause, or cancel coverage at any time. This flexibility is transformative for digital nomads and long-term travelers who do not have fixed travel dates.

Key coverage (Nomad Insurance):

Emergency medical: $250,000
Medical evacuation: $100,000
Trip interruption: $5,000
Baggage loss: $3,000
Travel delay: $100/day

Price: $45.08-$94.84/month depending on age (under 40 to 40-49 to 50-69)

Claims process: Fully online. SafetyWing partners with Tokio Marine HCC for underwriting, which is a reputable insurer. Claims for routine medical expenses (doctor visits, prescriptions) are typically processed within 1-2 weeks. Larger claims (hospitalization, evacuation) take longer.

Verdict: Unmatched flexibility for travelers without fixed itineraries. The subscription model means you are never paying for days you are not traveling. Coverage for the US (as a destination, not as home country) requires the add-on.

3. Allianz Travel Insurance

Best for: Mainstream travelers who want comprehensive coverage from a trusted brand

Allianz is one of the largest insurance companies in the world, and their travel insurance arm benefits from that scale and financial stability. Their OneTrip Prime plan is the most popular option for single-trip coverage.

Key coverage (OneTrip Prime):

Emergency medical: $50,000
Medical evacuation: $500,000
Trip cancellation: 100% of trip cost
Trip interruption: 150% of trip cost
Baggage: $1,000
Travel delay: $800

Price: Typically 5-8% of your total trip cost (a $3,000 trip insures for $150-$240)

Claims process: Allianz has a well-developed claims portal and mobile app. The 24/7 hotline is staffed by agents who can authorize direct billing at hospitals, which is crucial during a medical emergency (you do not want to argue about insurance while receiving treatment). Claims processing averages 10-20 business days.

Verdict: A reliable, middle-of-the-road option. The $50,000 medical limit is adequate for most destinations but may be insufficient for the US, where a single ER visit can exceed $10,000.

4. AIG Travel Guard

Best for: Premium travelers and those who want high coverage limits

AIG Travel Guard's Platinum plan offers some of the highest coverage limits in the industry, including $150,000 in emergency medical coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation. The plan also includes Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) as an optional upgrade, which reimburses 75% of trip costs if you cancel for literally any reason.

Key coverage (Platinum):

Emergency medical: $150,000
Medical evacuation: $1,000,000
Trip cancellation: 100% of trip cost
Trip interruption: 150% of trip cost
Baggage: $2,500
Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR): 75% reimbursement (optional add-on)

Price: 8-12% of trip cost for the Platinum plan; CFAR adds approximately 40-50% to the premium

Claims process: AIG has a reputation for thorough claims investigation, which can feel slow (15-30 business days) but results in fair settlements. Their 24/7 assistance line is among the most responsive in the industry.

Verdict: The best option if you want maximum coverage and are willing to pay for it. The CFAR option is particularly valuable for expensive, non-refundable trips.

5. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Best for: Travelers who value claims satisfaction and straightforward policies

Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett's conglomerate, entered the travel insurance market with a focus on simplicity and customer satisfaction. Their ExactCare plan is the flagship product, and their AirCare plan specifically covers flight-related disruptions.

Key coverage (ExactCare):

Emergency medical: $100,000
Medical evacuation: $1,000,000
Trip cancellation: 100% of trip cost
Trip interruption: 150% of trip cost
Baggage: $1,500

Price: 5-9% of trip cost

Claims process: Berkshire Hathaway consistently receives the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the travel insurance industry. Their claims process is designed to be fast, with many claims resolved in under 10 business days. They pay first and investigate later for claims under certain thresholds, which is unusual in the industry.

Verdict: Outstanding claims experience. If your biggest concern is actually getting paid when you file a claim, Berkshire Hathaway is the safest bet.

6. IMG (International Medical Group)

Best for: Long-term international travelers and expats

IMG specializes in international medical coverage for travelers spending extended periods abroad. Their iTravelInsured plans cover single trips, while their Global Medical Insurance plans cover continuous international living.

Key coverage (iTravelInsured Travel SE):

Emergency medical: $500,000
Medical evacuation: $500,000
Trip cancellation: $10,000
Trip interruption: $10,000
Baggage: $1,000

Price: $50-$200 for a single trip; Global Medical plans start at $150-$400/month depending on age and coverage level

Claims process: IMG processes claims through their own in-house team. Medical claims require standard documentation (itemized bills, physician reports). Processing averages 15-25 business days.

Verdict: The highest emergency medical limit ($500,000) among single-trip policies. Excellent for travelers heading to countries with expensive healthcare or those staying abroad for months at a time.

7. Seven Corners

Best for: Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions

Seven Corners' RoundTrip Elite plan includes a pre-existing condition waiver if purchased within 20 days of your initial trip deposit. This means that medical events related to conditions you had before purchasing the policy are covered -- a feature that many insurers exclude entirely or make difficult to obtain.

Key coverage (RoundTrip Elite):

Emergency medical: $250,000
Medical evacuation: $500,000
Trip cancellation: 100% of trip cost
Pre-existing condition waiver: Included (with timely purchase)
CFAR: Available as add-on

Price: 6-10% of trip cost

Claims process: Seven Corners has a solid reputation for processing medical claims efficiently. Their 24/7 assistance team can arrange direct billing with international hospitals.

Verdict: The best option for travelers with pre-existing conditions who need the peace of mind that their existing health issues will not void their coverage.

8. Faye

Best for: Tech-savvy travelers who want a modern, app-first experience

Faye is a newer entrant that has disrupted the traditional travel insurance model with a fully digital experience. Their mobile app allows you to purchase coverage, file claims, and track claim status in real time. Their "Whole Trip" coverage includes benefits that traditional insurers do not offer, like coverage for delayed baggage that pays out automatically when your flight is delayed (no claim filing required).

Key coverage (Whole Trip):

Emergency medical: $100,000
Medical evacuation: $250,000
Trip cancellation: 100% of trip cost
Baggage delay: Automatic payout after 6 hours
Pet care: $100/day if your trip is extended unexpectedly

Price: 4-7% of trip cost

Claims process: Faye's claims process is app-based and designed for speed. Simple claims (flight delays, baggage delays) are processed automatically through flight data integration. Medical claims require documentation but are typically resolved within 7-14 business days.

Verdict: The most user-friendly experience in the industry. The automatic delay payouts are a genuine innovation. Coverage limits are moderate.

9. Genki

Best for: European travelers and those who want modular coverage

Genki, based in Germany, offers insurance tailored for remote workers and travelers. Their "Explorer" plan provides worldwide coverage (including the US) with a focus on medical protection. The pricing is transparent, and you can add modules for different types of coverage.

Key coverage (Explorer):

Emergency medical: Unlimited (up to policy term)
Medical evacuation: Included
Dental emergency: $500
Liability insurance: $5,000,000
Baggage: Not included in base plan (add-on available)

Price: Starting at $35-$65/month depending on age and add-ons

Claims process: Digital-first. Claims are submitted through the app or website with typical resolution in 10-20 business days.

Verdict: Excellent medical coverage with the unlimited medical benefit. The modular approach means you can customize coverage to your needs and avoid paying for things you do not need. Best for European travelers or those spending extended time in Europe.

10. Insure My Trip (Comparison Platform)

Best for: Anyone who wants to compare multiple insurers side by side

Insure My Trip is not an insurance company itself -- it is a comparison marketplace that lets you enter your trip details and see quotes from dozens of insurers simultaneously. Think of it as the Kayak of travel insurance.

Key features:

Compares plans from 30+ insurance providers
Side-by-side coverage comparison tool
Anytime Advocates program: if your claim is denied, Insure My Trip will advocate on your behalf with the insurance company at no additional cost
Unbiased (they earn a commission from whichever company you choose, so they have no incentive to push one over another)

How to use it: Enter your trip dates, destination, ages of travelers, and trip cost. Review the results, filter by coverage needs, and compare the top 3-4 options before purchasing.

Verdict: The best starting point for anyone who is not sure which insurer to choose. The Anytime Advocates program adds a layer of consumer protection that buying direct does not provide.

Comparison Table

Company	Emergency Medical	Medical Evacuation	Trip Cancellation	Best For	Price Range
World Nomads	$100K	$500K	$10K	Adventure sports	$80-$200/trip
SafetyWing	$250K	$100K	$5K	Digital nomads	$45-$95/month
Allianz	$50K	$500K	100% of trip	Mainstream travel	5-8% of trip cost
AIG Travel Guard	$150K	$1M	100% of trip	Premium coverage	8-12% of trip cost
Berkshire Hathaway	$100K	$1M	100% of trip	Best claims experience	5-9% of trip cost
IMG	$500K	$500K	$10K	Long-term travel	$50-$200/trip
Seven Corners	$250K	$500K	100% of trip	Pre-existing conditions	6-10% of trip cost
Faye	$100K	$250K	100% of trip	App-based experience	4-7% of trip cost
Genki	Unlimited	Included	Add-on	European travelers	$35-$65/month
Insure My Trip	Varies	Varies	Varies	Comparing options	Varies

Annual vs. Single-Trip Policies

If you travel internationally more than twice per year, an annual (multi-trip) policy almost always saves money compared to buying individual policies for each trip.

When Annual Makes Sense

You take 3+ international trips per year
You take frequent domestic trips with non-refundable bookings
You are a digital nomad or frequent business traveler

Annual Policy Options

Allianz AllTrips Premier: $299-$600/year depending on age, covers unlimited trips up to 45 days each
AIG Annual Multi-Trip: $350-$700/year, trips up to 90 days each
Seven Corners Annual Multi-Trip: $200-$500/year, trips up to 30 days each

When Single-Trip Makes Sense

You travel internationally once per year
Your trips vary dramatically in cost (a $500 weekend getaway vs. a $10,000 honeymoon)
You want to customize coverage for each specific trip

When to Buy Travel Insurance

Buy within 14-21 days of your first trip deposit. Most insurers require purchase within this window to qualify for pre-existing condition waivers and Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage. Waiting until the week before your trip limits your options and eliminates these valuable benefits.

Buy before you need it. Travel insurance covers events that happen after the policy purchase date. If you buy insurance on Monday and a hurricane warning is issued on Tuesday for your destination, you are covered. If the hurricane warning is issued on Monday and you buy insurance on Tuesday, you are not.

How to File a Claim Successfully

Most claim denials result from insufficient documentation, not bad faith by the insurer. Here is how to maximize your chances:

Keep all receipts. Every receipt for every expense related to your claim: medical bills, hotel charges during delays, replacement clothing for delayed baggage, taxi fares, meal costs.
Get written documentation from the cause. If your flight is canceled, get a written statement from the airline. If you are sick, get a written diagnosis from the doctor. If your bag is lost, file a report with the airline and keep the report number.
File promptly. Most policies require claims to be filed within 60-90 days of the incident. Do not wait.
Be thorough. Fill out every field on the claim form. Attach every supporting document. An incomplete claim gets sent back for more information, adding weeks to the process.
Follow up. If you have not heard back within the stated processing time, call or email. Polite persistence moves claims forward.

Use TripGenie to Organize Your Travel Details

Having all your trip details organized in one place makes filing insurance claims dramatically easier. TripGenie helps you store flight confirmations, hotel bookings, activity reservations, and other trip documentation in a shared itinerary. If something goes wrong and you need to file a claim, all the relevant booking information is already organized and accessible rather than scattered across email confirmations and text messages.

The Bottom Line

Travel insurance is not glamorous, and you will never enjoy paying for it. But the cost of a policy ($50-$300 for a typical trip) is trivial compared to a $30,000 medical bill in a foreign country or a $5,000 non-refundable trip that you have to cancel due to illness.

Choose a company based on what matters most for your trip: adventure sports coverage (World Nomads), long-term flexibility (SafetyWing), claims satisfaction (Berkshire Hathaway), pre-existing conditions (Seven Corners), or high coverage limits (AIG or IMG). And buy it within 14 days of your first trip deposit. That is the one timing decision that unlocks the most valuable policy features.

Best Travel Insurance Companies in 2026: Honest Reviews and Comparisons