- The best domestic travel insurance plans
- What exactly is domestic travel insurance?
- What is the price of domestic travel insurance?
- What does domestic travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of domestic travel insurance
- Why take out domestic travel insurance?
- How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
- Do your current insurance policies cover domestic travel?
- FAQ
domestic travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Domestic travel insurance protects your non-refundable trip costs and medical needs for travel within the United States.
2. Price: A one-week domestic policy in the US typically costs between $50 and $150, based on trip cost.
3. Coverage: It usually covers trip cancellation and medical emergencies but excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Health plans like Medicare and credit cards offer limited or no coverage for trip cancellation and interruption.
5. Tips: Verify that medical evacuation limits are sufficient, especially for trips to remote areas like Alaska or national parks.
6. Other useful info: Travel to US territories like Puerto Rico may require an international policy, so always check with the provider.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the U.S., our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best domestic travel insurance.
The best domestic travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best domestic travel insurance plans available in the US in 2025.
These policies are among the best due to their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 0.75M $ | 100 $ |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 0.5M $ | 100 $ |
|
| Tourist Card | 0.75M $ | 150 $ |
|
| World Travel | 0.75M $ | 200 $ |
|
| Globe Partner | 0.5M $ | 100 $ |
|
| Globe Traveller | 0.75M $ | 150 $ |
|
- Comprehensive coverage across all states.
- Medical teleconsultation included.
- Trip cancellation flexibility. 24/7 customer assistance.
- Direct access to support app.
- No age-based rate increase.
- Quick claims approval.
- Fast reimbursement process.
- Legal assistance available.
- Good support for digital nomads.
- Includes telemedicine.
- Quarantine hotel benefit.
- Strong baggage coverage.
- Suitable for long trips in the US.
- Fast online policy issuance.
- No cancellation fees.
- Stable rates for seniors.
- Multilingual customer service.
- Covers long-duration trips.
The best domestic travel insurance depends on your unique needs. Use HelloSafe’s comparison tool to find and subscribe to the plan that suits you best.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat exactly is domestic travel insurance?
Domestic travel insurance is a policy designed to protect travelers against unexpected events and losses during trips within the United States.
It typically covers expenses related to trip cancellation, travel delays, lost or damaged baggage, emergency medical situations, and evacuation costs that may not be covered by regular health insurance.
This coverage is specific to travel between or within US states and is commonly referred to as "US travel insurance" or "interstate travel insurance".
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out domestic travel insurance is especially important in the US:
- When you have significant, non-refundable travel expenses.
- If your health plan has limited out-of-state network coverage.
- For trips to remote areas like Alaska or national parks.
- To cover costs if you must unexpectedly return home early.
- For travel to US regions prone to hurricanes or wildfires.
- If your trip includes adventure sports like skiing or hiking.
- When renting a car and needing primary damage coverage.
What is the price of domestic travel insurance?
On average, domestic travel insurance costs between 4% and 8% of your total trip price.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 3-day city break in New York | $600 | $25 to $45 |
| 7-day beach vacation in Florida | $2,000 | $80 to $160 |
| 10-day national parks road trip | $2,800 | $110 to $190 |
| 2-week family visit to California | $3,500 | $140 to $250 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your domestic travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the trip, the higher the cost.
- destination: travel within expensive regions or remote areas in the US can increase the premium.
- traveler’s age: older travelers or those with medical risks may pay more.
- level of coverage: higher medical limits, additional baggage protection, and low deductibles raise the price.
- selected options: coverage for risky sports, rental car protection, and “cancel for any reason” add to the cost.
What does domestic travel insurance cover?
Domestic travel insurance is designed to protect travelers within the United States before, during, and after their trip. It provides financial protection for trip cancellations, medical emergencies away from home, travel inconveniences, and your belongings. This coverage fills important gaps that home insurance or regular health plans do not always address for US trips.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you cancel for a covered reason. | Minimum $5,000, deductible below $50 is ideal. Cancellations from change of mind or work conflicts are generally excluded. |
| ? Rental car coverage | Pays for damage or theft of a rental vehicle used during your domestic trip. | Recommend $25,000 limit and zero deductible. Commercial use and high-value or exotic cars are not covered. |
| ? Baggage loss or theft | Covers loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and personal effects while traveling. | Minimum $1,000 per person, deductible under $30. Unattended items and fragile electronics are commonly excluded. |
| ? Travel delay | Pays a fixed amount after a covered transport delay during your journey. | Look for $200+ per 6 hours with no deductible. Short or unproven delays and voluntary rescheduling are not covered. |
| ? Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent care if you become ill or injured while away. | Minimum $50,000 per person and deductible under $100. Routine health care and pre-existing conditions are often excluded. |
| ? Emergency evacuation | Key guarantee. Pays for ambulance or air transport to the nearest hospital. | Aim for at least $100,000 cover, deductible under $100. Non-emergencies and transport for non-medical reasons are not covered. |
| ? Missed connection | Covers extra costs if you miss a connection due to covered delays. | Minimum $500 cover and no deductible. Delays under 3 hours or due to personal error are generally excluded. |
| ? Trip interruption | Refund for unused prepaid services if you must cut your trip short for covered reasons. | Cover at least $2,500 and deductible below $50. Voluntary breaks or minor incidents may not be covered. |
| ? Personal liability | Pays for injury or damage you accidentally cause to others while traveling. | At least $100,000 in liability cover, deductible below $100. Intentional damage, rented property, and family injury are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance | Pays legal fees or bail if you need help after an accident while on your trip. | Seek at least $2,000 cover. Losses due to being under the influence or criminal charges are never included. |
Cancellations from change of mind or work conflicts are generally excluded.
Commercial use and high-value or exotic cars are not covered.
Unattended items and fragile electronics are commonly excluded.
Short or unproven delays and voluntary rescheduling are not covered.
Routine health care and pre-existing conditions are often excluded.
Non-emergencies and transport for non-medical reasons are not covered.
Delays under 3 hours or due to personal error are generally excluded.
Voluntary breaks or minor incidents may not be covered.
Intentional damage, rented property, and family injury are excluded.
Losses due to being under the influence or criminal charges are never included.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the domestic travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of domestic travel insurance
To activate your domestic travel insurance and make your benefits valid, several basic conditions must be met.
- Timing of policy purchase: you must buy the policy before starting your trip, not after departure.
- Residency requirement: you must be a resident of the United States at the time of subscription.
- Trip eligibility: the trip must take place entirely within US borders, including states and territories specifically covered.
- Trip duration compliance: coverage is only valid for the duration indicated in the insurance contract.
- Minimum trip distance or cost: some insurers require a minimum distance from home or a minimum trip cost for coverage to apply.
- Incident notification: you must notify the insurer as soon as possible in case of a covered incident or claim.
- Supporting documentation: you must submit all required documents, such as invoices or medical reports, when filing a claim.
- Exclusion of ongoing travel: you must not already be traveling when purchasing the insurance for the intended trip.
Watch out!
A common myth: pre-existing conditions are never covered. For domestic trips, many policies waive this exclusion if you buy insurance within 14-21 days of your initial trip deposit. Don't wait until the last minute to purchase, or you might lose this crucial benefit.
Why take out domestic travel insurance?
Unexpected events can disrupt your plans or result in high medical bills even when traveling within the United States.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, from the first dollar depending on the policy |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Up to 100%, usually subject to policy limits |
| Consultation and treatment for an intestinal infection |
| Up to 100%, after any deductible present |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial reimbursement, usually up to a fixed limit |
- California: $1,200 – $1,800
- Texas: $600 – $900
- New York: $700 – $1,200
- Midwest: $400 – $700
- Florida: $500 – $900
- Pacific Northwest: $300 – $600
- California: $600 – $1,000
- Texas: $350 – $600
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Beyond medical bills, domestic travel insurance often covers trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen baggage, travel delays, rental car protection, and 24/7 assistance.
Good to know
Your health plan may not cover you fully out-of-state, where an ER visit can cost thousands. Domestic travel insurance protects your finances from surprise medical bills and trip cancellations. With a simple plan from Chapka, you can enjoy your US adventures with total peace of mind.
How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
Not all domestic travel insurance policies offer the same coverage. Reimbursement limits, exclusions, and covered incidents can be very different. Comparing plans ensures your protection matches your needs before traveling within the United States.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ? Reimbursement limits | Limited coverage can leave you paying out-of-pocket for unexpected emergencies or major trip losses. | Confirm the maximum limit matches your potential medical or trip interruption costs for peace of mind. |
| ? Deductible | The amount you pay before receiving benefits affects your claim and total protection. | Prefer a low deductible, ideally under $250, especially for medical and trip delay coverage. |
| ? Policy conditions | Some benefits only apply if certain steps or purchase timings are followed. | Always buy insurance soon after your initial booking to access the full range of coverage and waivers. |
| ? Traveller’s age | Medical and cancellation benefits can change for children or seniors, and may affect premium levels. | Seek plans with no age-related exclusions or higher medical limits for older travelers or families. |
| ??? Traveller profile | Your family status, solo travel, or group needs will affect coverage options. | Choose a family or group plan if you travel together to reduce paperwork and avoid duplicate premiums. |
| ? Trip duration | Coverage limits may not fit long road trips, extended stays, or multi-state journeys. | Confirm your trip fits within the insurer’s maximum covered duration, especially for longer US travels. |
| ? Geographic area | Policies may exclude Alaska, Hawaii, or US territories, or require higher coverage for remote areas. | Check for coverage of specific states or regions if your itinerary includes less common destinations. |
| ?️ Existing coverage | Health and credit card insurance rarely includes all domestic travel risks. | Evaluate exactly what your bank, health, or home insurance does not protect before relying on it for travel. |
| ? Planned activities | Some activities, like skiing or hiking, may need specific adventure or sports coverage. | Make sure your planned sports or excursions are listed as covered, or add adventure upgrades if needed. |
Do your current insurance policies cover domestic travel?
It is understandable to wonder if your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or public health insurance, can provide sufficient domestic travel insurance, but unfortunately this is often not the case.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | domestic travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Almost Never | Covers emergency care for illness or accident, but only at standard Medicare rates. Does not cover: trip cancellation, lost baggage, travel delays, emergency evacuation, non-medical incidents. | Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 for medical, cancellation, delays, lost baggage, missed connections and evacuation, filling common coverage gaps. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna) | Almost Never | Emergency care nationwide, plans usually offer $500,000–$2,000,000. Does not cover: trip costs, baggage issues, weather delays, rental car protection, cancellation. | Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 for medical plus non-medical risks like cancellation, delays, rental car, and lost luggage across the US. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Never | Limited trip and baggage reimbursement, usually under $2,500-$3,000 per trip, little travel delay or interruption. Does not cover: medical expenses, evacuation, weather delays, personal liability, trip interruption, emergencies. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to $100,000 for cancellation, delays, medical, missed connections, evacuation and many events not covered by cards. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold) | Limited coverage | Trip cancellation and baggage protection up to $10,000 and $3,000, no or very little medical or evacuation. Does not cover: extended delays, full medical expenses, pre-existing conditions, adventure activities, urgent care out of state. | Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 for medical, evacuation, weather, delays, adventure activities and more than any credit card coverage provides. |
Does not cover: trip cancellation, lost baggage, travel delays, emergency evacuation, non-medical incidents.
Does not cover: trip costs, baggage issues, weather delays, rental car protection, cancellation.
Does not cover: medical expenses, evacuation, weather delays, personal liability, trip interruption, emergencies.
Does not cover: extended delays, full medical expenses, pre-existing conditions, adventure activities, urgent care out of state.
Expert advice
Many credit cards and health plans exclude key situations like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Scrutinize your policy to prevent unexpected costs while traveling. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is generally not mandatory for travel within the United States. However, some guided tours, cruises, or adventure activities may require proof of insurance as a condition of participation. While not legally required, it is strongly recommended for trips involving expensive non-refundable reservations or travel to areas prone to severe weather, where cancellations and emergencies are more likely.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
The best time to purchase domestic travel insurance is immediately after you book your trip and pay the first deposit. Early purchase ensures you are eligible for benefits like trip cancellation, pre-existing condition waivers, and maximum coverage if an unexpected event occurs before departure. Delaying purchase could limit your options and coverage eligibility.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
1/ Compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit for your itinerary.2/ Check guarantees and exclusions carefully, making sure coverage matches your destination and travel plans.3/ Purchase your chosen plan online for quick access.4/ Receive your insurance certificate by email, which you may need for bookings or claims.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase domestic travel insurance after booking, though some benefits—such as pre-existing condition waivers or trip cancellation for specific events—are only available if you buy within 14-21 days of your first payment. For the broadest protection, it is best to buy as soon as possible after booking.
How do I make a claim with domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible and provide required documents such as receipts, medical reports, or proof of travel disruption. Claims can usually be submitted online or by mail. Prompt and complete documentation will ensure a faster review and reimbursement.
Does my health insurance cover medical emergencies during domestic travel?
Most US health insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurers, cover emergency care nationwide but may not pay for out-of-network services at the same rate. Domestic travel insurance can supplement these benefits by covering deductibles, travel-specific emergencies, or services not included under your regular policy.
Is domestic travel insurance worth it for short trips?
Even for short trips, domestic travel insurance can be valuable if non-refundable reservations, event tickets, or high-cost activities are involved. It also provides peace of mind in case of trip cancellations, lost baggage, or unexpected medical expenses far from your regular providers.
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is generally not mandatory for travel within the United States. However, some guided tours, cruises, or adventure activities may require proof of insurance as a condition of participation. While not legally required, it is strongly recommended for trips involving expensive non-refundable reservations or travel to areas prone to severe weather, where cancellations and emergencies are more likely.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
The best time to purchase domestic travel insurance is immediately after you book your trip and pay the first deposit. Early purchase ensures you are eligible for benefits like trip cancellation, pre-existing condition waivers, and maximum coverage if an unexpected event occurs before departure. Delaying purchase could limit your options and coverage eligibility.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
1/ Compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit for your itinerary.2/ Check guarantees and exclusions carefully, making sure coverage matches your destination and travel plans.3/ Purchase your chosen plan online for quick access.4/ Receive your insurance certificate by email, which you may need for bookings or claims.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase domestic travel insurance after booking, though some benefits—such as pre-existing condition waivers or trip cancellation for specific events—are only available if you buy within 14-21 days of your first payment. For the broadest protection, it is best to buy as soon as possible after booking.
How do I make a claim with domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible and provide required documents such as receipts, medical reports, or proof of travel disruption. Claims can usually be submitted online or by mail. Prompt and complete documentation will ensure a faster review and reimbursement.
Does my health insurance cover medical emergencies during domestic travel?
Most US health insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurers, cover emergency care nationwide but may not pay for out-of-network services at the same rate. Domestic travel insurance can supplement these benefits by covering deductibles, travel-specific emergencies, or services not included under your regular policy.
Is domestic travel insurance worth it for short trips?
Even for short trips, domestic travel insurance can be valuable if non-refundable reservations, event tickets, or high-cost activities are involved. It also provides peace of mind in case of trip cancellations, lost baggage, or unexpected medical expenses far from your regular providers.
