While travel insurance may not be mandatory for international travel, it can be a practical and valuable choice, offering coverage for various unexpected situations that may arise abroad. International trips often involve significant planning, costs, and unique risks that can make travel insurance worthwhile. Here are some key reasons why purchasing travel insurance for international travel may be beneficial: 
 

• Trip Cancellation and Interruption: If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to eligible unforeseen circumstances such as a natural disaster, illness, or death in the family, these travel insurance benefits can compensate for non-refundable trip expenses such as prepaid flights, accommodations, and tours. 

• Missed Connection Coverage: If you miss a connecting flight or cruise due to an eligible delay, missed connection coverage can help cover additional costs to catch up to your planned itinerary, such as alternative flights or accommodations. 

• Medical Emergencies: If you get sick or injured during your international trip, travel insurance can help cover medical expenses such as hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation. 

• Travel Delays: If your flight is delayed or canceled, travel insurance can help reimburse for expenses such as meals, accommodations, and transportation until you are able to reach your destination. 

• Lost or Stolen Luggage: If your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during your International trip, travel insurance can help provide reimbursement for the value of your belongings. 

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment: This coverage offers repatriation back to your returning destination in case of accidental injury leading to dismemberment or death during your trip.  

• Rental Car Coverage: For those planning to drive abroad, some travel insurance policies include rental car damage coverage, which can help with repair costs in case of an accident or theft of the rental vehicle. 
   

Having international travel insurance can allow you to focus on the experiences that make your trip enjoyable. When a travel mishap occurs, travel insurance can offer support, helping with the logistics of unexpected situations and offsetting some potential expenses. 
 

Vacation Story 

Nathan had always dreamed of exploring the stunning beaches and vibrant culture of Thailand. He meticulously planned his itinerary, packed his bags, and set out on his international adventure. As he was exploring a bustling market, Nathan suddenly discovered that his passport and wallet had been stolen. Feeling stranded and alone in a foreign country, Nathan quickly contacted emergency services for assistance. The travel insurance company helped him replace his passport and secure emergency funds to cover his expenses until he received his new credit cards. They also offered him guidance on how to file a police report and provided translation services to assist him in communicating with local authorities. 

International Medical Care and Medical Repatriation 

When traveling internationally, your typical health insurance plan may not offer coverage. Most U.S. medical insurance, including Medicare, offers little to no coverage abroad. This means that if you need medical care outside of the United States, you may be responsible for the entire cost of treatment, which could significantly exceed your planned total trip cost. For travelers, having a plan in place for medical emergencies- especially those requiring evacuation or specialized transport- is an important part of preparing for a safe and well-supported journey. 

According to the U.S. Department of State, “Some health insurance companies pay for ‘customary and reasonable’ hospital costs abroad. Very few pay for your medical evacuation back to the United States. The cost may exceed $250,000, depending on your location and medical condition.” 
 

Access to Medical Care Abroad 

International travel insurance policies may include access to a network of local providers and support with the logistics of receiving treatment in unfamiliar healthcare systems. In countries where immediate payment is required, this coverage can help cover medical bills. 

Additionally, many travel insurance providers offer 24/7 assistance, which can be particularly valuable in an emergency where language barriers or local healthcare procedures might complicate care. 
 

Medical Repatriation and Emergency Evacuation 

In cases where a serious medical event requires specialized emergency transportation back to the U.S., travel insurance with repatriation coverage can be crucial. Emergency evacuation and repatriation can involve complex arrangements, such as air ambulances or medically equipped flights, which ensure the traveler is accompanied by medical staff and has the necessary care en route. 

With the cost of these services sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars, having travel insurance with repatriation benefits can help cover this expense, making it more manageable for travelers and their families. 
 

Compare International Travel Insurance Plans 

AXA offers three levels of international travel insurance, each with distinct benefits to meet the diverse needs of travelers. Here’s an overview of what each plan may offer: 

AXA Silver Plan 

The AXA Silver is a budget-friendly travel insurance option for essential international protection. It offers medical benefits such as emergency medical expense coverage up to $25,000 and emergency medical evacuation coverage up to $100,000. 

Additional benefits include trip cancellation and interruption coverage (up to 100% of trip cost), trip delay reimbursement ($100 per day, up to $500), and baggage protection (up to $750 for lost items and $200 for baggage delays). This plan is suitable for travelers looking for basic yet reliable support for medical emergencies and common travel disruptions at a reasonable price. 

AXA Gold Plan 

The AXA Gold offers enhanced coverage for international travelers, including up to $100,000 for emergency medical expenses and $500,000 for emergency medical evacuation. It includes trip cancellation (100% of trip cost), trip interruption (150%), and trip delay coverage ($200 per day, up to $1,000). 

The Gold plan also provides baggage protection for lost ($1,500) or delayed baggage ($300), missed connections ($1,000), and options like a collision waiver for car rental. Non-medical emergency evacuation and coverage for certain pre-existing medical conditions may also be available, making it ideal for travelers seeking enhanced protection. 

AXA Platinum Plan 

The AXA Platinum has the highest level of international travel insurance coverage, including up to $250,000 in emergency medical expenses and $1,000,000 for medical evacuation. Key features include trip cancellation (100% of trip cost), trip interruption (150%), missed connection ($1,500), and trip delay ($300 per day up to $1,250). 

Additional benefits include lost baggage ($3,000) and baggage delay ($600). Optional add-ons include Trip Cancellation for Any Reason, pre-existing condition coverage and sports benefits. Perfect for the traveler who wants coverage for all scenarios. 
 

Why Choose AXA for International Travel Insurance? 

AXA’s International Travel Protection offer flexible options for travelers seeking coverage for a range of unexpected events. AXA can support you if your trip is interrupted, if medical care is needed abroad, or if personal belongings are lost during travel. 

AXA also offers additional resources, including 24/7 customer service and assistance to help travelers navigate difficult situations with knowledgeable support. 

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning a one-time international journey, AXA’s international travel insurance can help you stay covered and focused on enjoying your experience. From destination assistance to potential medical evacuation coverage, AXA’s travel insurance policies are designed to help keep you prepared for the unexpected while abroad. 
 

Can I Purchase Travel Insurance After Booking My Trip? 

Yes, travel insurance is purchased after booking a trip, at least 24 hours before your trip begins. However, purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after the initial trip payment is suggested to ensure that you are fully covered for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise. 
 

Does Travel Insurance Cover COVID? 

AXA Travel Plans include specialized coverage for COVID-related expenses, such as medical treatment, quarantine, and trip cancellation or interruption due to the virus. However, it is essential to carefully review the policy's terms and conditions to understand the specific coverage and exclusions related to COVID. 
 

How to Get a Travel Protection Quote 

To get a travel protection quote with AXA, simply visit the AXA Travel Insurance website and navigate to the “Get a Quote” option. You’ll need to enter details about your trip, including your destination, travel dates, and the number of travelers. AXA will also ask for your age, as this can influence the quote. Once you’ve provided the necessary information, AXA will display quotes for its Silver, Gold, and Platinum, allowing you to compare options based on the level of coverage you need. 

You may also call us at  855-327-1441 to speak with our licensed Travel Insurance Advisors. 
Monday-Saturday, 8AM-7PM Central Time 

Also see: Plan Comparison Table | Silver  | Gold  | Platinum  
 

Need help choosing a plan? 

Speak with one of our licensed representatives or our multilingual travel insurance specialistsadvisors, available 24/7, to find the travel insurance coverage you need for your next trip. From medical coverage to trip-cancellation protection, our team of travel experts will help you choose the right coverage. 

Related Articles 

How to Buy Travel Insurance            

How does Travel Insurance Work?

Comparing Travel Insurance 

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost 

Do I Need Travel Insurance

When Should I buy Travel Insurance 

What Does Travel Insurance NOT Cover

What Does Travel Insurance Cover