Priorities may change as you become older. For one, you may want to travel. Going to exotic countries is great, but what if there’s a problem, like health issues? An emergency health issue or even a delayed flight can wreak havoc on your vacation.
That’s where travel insurance comes into play. A travel insurance policy can save you thousands if you have a major disruption to your trip. It can be a lifesaver in some instances. But how do you choose the right travel insurance? And is it affordable?
Medical Emergencies Abroad and Medicare
One legitimate concern for seniors is if there’s insurance coverage for a medical emergency abroad, what will cover it? Many think that Medicare will be available for travel. But it doesn’t apply to foreign travel.According to the Medicare fact sheet on coverage outside the United States, in most situations, Medicare won’t cover care or supplies you receive outside the United States. It also doesn’t pay for dialysis or drugs you buy in foreign countries. A Medigap policy may cover some services that Medicare doesn’t, but it is limited.
Travel insurance is designed to cover emergencies.
What to Look for in a Travel Insurance Policy
Travel insurance covers a wide variety of issues. A good policy should cover everything from airline cancellation, trip cancellation, baggage loss and emergency evacuation, to trip changes, hijacking and more.It’s essential to read the travel insurance policy before you agree to it. Preexisting medical conditions are one item that could be excluded. But there are exceptions.
Preexisting Conditions and Travel Insurance
Most travel insurances cover preexisting conditions on a limited basis. But they have a look-back period. This is the number of days an insurance company will “look back” to determine if a claim is related to a preexisting condition.According to travel insurance company Squarmouth, the look-back period is typically 60–180 days. However, insurance companies will waive the exclusion if you purchase their policy within 14–30 days before making the first trip payment.
Travel Insurance Cost
According to MarketWatch, the average cost of a standard policy is $204. But your specific price will depend on the trip price, number of travelers, age, and more. It ends up costing three to 14 percent of a trip’s total value. But age is a large factor.
For example, the average cost for an individual 30-year-old is $141 while the average cost of a 60-year-old is $250. The price increases as you age.
Travel Insurance Companies Geared Toward Seniors
There are many travel insurance companies to choose from, but seniors should look for policies that specifically cater to their needs. These policies should cover:- emergency assistance
- preexisting conditions
- emergency medical costs
- and more
Travelex Insurance Services
Travelex Insurance Services offers three plans, including Essential, Advantage, and Ultimate. Each offers standard coverage, but the Ultimate plan has robust coverage for medical.Some medical coverages include:
- up to $1 million per person coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains
- up to $250,000 per person for emergency medical expenses and $500 for dental
- preexisting exclusion waiver included (if you qualify)
Travelex also offers other upgrades and options.
Seven Corners Travel Insurance
Seven Corners Travel Insurance provides different types of travel insurance. These include Trip Protection Basic and Trip Protection Choice plans. In some states, they are called Trip Protection Economy and Elite.Seven Corners offers all the standard travel insurance coverage. But they have pumped up their medical coverage.
The Trip Protection Choice Plan (Elite) has the highest evacuation coverage limit of Seven Corners’ plans. It also offers primary medical coverage, which makes filing a claim easier. Medical coverage includes:
- up to $1 million per person for emergency evacuation and repatriation
- up to $500,000 per person for emergency medical expenses, with $750 for dental
- preexisting conditions eligible for coverage if requirements are met
Worldtrips Travel Insurance
WorldTrips Travel offers medical-specific travel insurance and more extensive trip insurance. It has the Atlas Journey Escape, Explore, and Elevate plans.Atlas Journey Elevate is the best of the three.
Besides the standard travel insurance coverage for trip interruption and baggage loss, it provides primary medical coverage and coverage for preexisting conditions.
You must purchase a WorldTrips policy within 21 days of booking your trip and are medically able to travel on your coverage date for the preexisting conditions coverage to take effect.
Benefits that the Atlas Journey Elevat plan offers include:
- up to $1 million per person in emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage
- up to $250,000 per person in emergency care coverage with $750 dental
- up to 100 percent (100,000 maximum) of trip cost for trip cancellations
Choose the Company That Meets Your Needs
Take great care in saving for and planning a trip abroad. Take the time to also prepare for travel insurance. Pricing is determined by the trip’s cost and your age.If you’re concerned about medical expenses overseas, choose a travel insurance company with plans available to meet your health needs.
The Epoch Times copyright © 2025. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.
