Skip to main content

Cookies on BBB.org

We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Cookie Preferences

Many websites use cookies or similar tools to store information on your browser or device. We use cookies on BBB websites to remember your preferences, improve website performance and enhance user experience, and to recommend content we believe will be most relevant to you. Most cookies collect anonymous information such as how users arrive at and use the website. Some cookies are necessary to allow the website to function properly, but you may choose to not allow other types of cookies below.

Necessary Cookies

What are necessary cookies?
These cookies are necessary for the site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you that amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

Necessary cookies must always be enabled.

Functional Cookies

What are functional cookies?
These cookies enable the site to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly.

Performance Cookies

What are performance cookies?
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Marketing Cookies

What are marketing cookies?
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant content on other sites. They do not store personal information directly, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser or device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.
      Country
          Country
          Latest News

          BBB Tip: Is travel insurance right for you?

          By Better Business Bureau. January 27, 2020.

          (Getty)

          Travel restrictions and life events cause many people to change or cancel their travel plans. Travel insurance can give consumers peace of mind by protecting their purchase against potential canceled flights or changed itineraries. However; not all policies will cover cancellations for a health scare or bad weather.

          When booking a trip for business or leisure, the decision is somewhat risky because it's hard to tell when an unusual event such as a pandemic, war or severe weather will impact the destination you are planning to travel to. Here are some tips to help decide:

          Understand the coverage that is provided. Find out what coverage you have on your existing insurance policies by contacting your health and car insurance companies, and your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance providers. Understand the difference between natural disasters, and epidemics and carefully read the language that is in the coverage policy. Find out if you are covered in case of illness or theft, and if that coverage changes if you’re travelling internationally. This is especially important if you or those you are traveling with have health issues.

          You may also be able to purchase additional coverage through your current homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy temporarily in order to protect expensive equipment, jewelry, or other property you plan on taking with you. Contact your current provider to discuss your options. 

          What type of coverage is offered through your credit card company? If you use a credit card to make major purchases, instead of a debit card, typically there is additional protection for those purchases. If you used a credit card to pay for some, or all of your vacation plans, contact the financial institution to find out what type of coverage is included. You may also have the option of purchasing travel insurance through a credit card company. 

          So, do you need additional coverage? Once you understand what coverage is offered through your current policies and credit card companies, determine what additional coverage you may need. Are you covered in case of medical emergencies on your trip? What happens if you have to cancel? Consider how much you are spending on the trip, and if you are prepared to take on additional financial burdens if something goes wrong. 

          What to expect from your coverage. Expect to pay between five to seven percent of the cost of your trip, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Typically travel insurance will cover some or all of the following:

          - Trip cancellation or delay;
          - Lost or stolen luggage;
          - Emergency medical assistance; 
          - Coverage for rental cars. 

          Be sure you understand every detail of the agreement including the reason for trip cancellation or delay. Some travel insurance policies will not cover trip cancellation for reasons such as a health scare, terrorist attack, pandemic, or bad weather. Make sure you read the policy thoroughly and don’t be afraid to ask questions. 

          The difference between trip cancellation insurance and a cancellation waiver. Before buying travel insurance, know the difference between insurance and a cancellation waiver. According to the III, although waivers do provide some trip cancellation protection, they generally include more restrictions. 

          Always do your research.
          Before doing business or making a purchase, always research the company at BBB.org. Look for things like any possible complaints, and customer reviews. For more information, contact your local Better Business Bureau by using the BBB Directory

          For more travel advice, read our tips for planning your next vacation or trip

          Traveling internationally? Check for travel advisories in Canada or around the world by visiting the U.S. Travel Association.

           

          BBB of Northeast California contributed to this article.