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Travel Insurance

You may have great coverage in the U.S., but most of those benefits don’t extend overseas. If you need medical attention when you’re traveling, it could be difficult to find the right care – and you may have no coverage and face unexpected medical bills. Why take the chance?

If you want extra protection, you have options:

  • Medigap Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N include limited foreign travel emergency coverage (usually up to $50,000 lifetime with a deductible).
  • Medicare Advantage Plans may offer emergency coverage outside the U.S., but benefits vary by plan.
  • Travel Insurance Policies can be purchased separately to help cover medical costs, trip cancellations, and evacuations while abroad.


If you’re planning international travel, it’s smart to review your Medicare benefits and consider adding travel coverage for peace of mind.

How Travel Insurance Works

Medicare generally doesn’t cover you outside the U.S., so it’s important to plan ahead before traveling abroad. Some Medigap policies and certain Medicare Advantage plans include limited emergency coverage while overseas, but benefits vary. For added peace of mind, many travelers choose a separate travel insurance policy to help cover medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip interruptions.

How to Enroll in Travel Insurance

Enrolling in travel insurance is quick and flexible. You don’t have to wait for Medicare’s enrollment periods – you can purchase a policy any time before your trip. Most plans let you:

  • Choose coverage based on your destination, trip length, and budget.

  • Apply online or by phone through a licensed agent, insurer, or travel company.

  • Pay a one-time premium that covers you for the duration of your trip.

If you have a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan, check what travel benefits are already included. Then, consider a standalone travel insurance policy to fill any gaps and make sure you’re fully protected while abroad.

FAQs

How much does Travel Insurance cost?

Here are some sample costs:

  • If you’re relying on a Medigap Plan (C, D, F, G, M, or N) for foreign travel emergencies, you’ll pay a $250 annual deductible, then 20% of eligible charges up to a $50,000 lifetime maximum (coverage limited to your first 60 days abroad). Your Medigap premium varies – typically between $44 and $405 per month, depending on plan and location.
  • For broader coverage, standalone travel insurance usually costs 5–10% of your prepaid trip expenses or about $400 – $450 for many seniors. Short-term medical-only policies can cost as little as $10 – $50 for a week, while older travelers (75+) might pay $61 – $780 per month depending on coverage.


Use both to decide what fits your peace of mind and budget. For your specific coverage costs, use this link to view and purchase travel insurance.

How do I enroll in Travel Insurance?
  1. Check your Medicare plan – See what (if any) travel coverage is included.

  2. Choose your policy – Pick a plan that fits your destination, trip length, and budget. Use this link to get started.

  3. Enroll online or by phone – Pay a one-time premium and you’re covered for your trip.

Travel insurance can be purchased anytime before you leave, so it’s easy to add peace of mind to your journey.

Summary

Remember, Medicare provides little to no coverage outside the U.S., which can leave you responsible for the full cost of emergency care abroad. Adding travel insurance ensures you’re covered for unexpected medical bills, emergency evacuations, and even trip interruptions – giving you the confidence to travel without worry.

Have questions? We can help! Give us a call and we can walk you through all of your options today!

Sylvia Gordon, aka Medicare Mama®, is an expert on all things Medicare and Social Security. She is the 2nd Generation here at The Medicare Family and has served on the advisory boards of major insurance companies like UnitedHealthcare®, Cigna, and Anthem. In her free time, she can be found taking care of her animals (dogs, goats, peacocks, chickens), and reading a good book. Learn More.
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