Woman looking at her credit card benefits for travel insurance coverage

Do You REALLY Need Travel Insurance? Let’s Talk About It.

March 03, 20253 min read

So, you’re out here planning your next big getaway. You got the flights, the villa, the excursions. Everything is looking GOOD. But then, right before you check out, that little box pops up:

 “Would you like to add travel insurance for an additional $XX?” 

And now, you’re stuck. Do you click ‘Yes’ or keep it pushing?

Some people swear travel insurance is a lifesaver. Others say it’s a scam. So what’s the real truth? Let’s break it all the way down so you don’t waste a single dime.

When You Absolutely, 100% NEED Travel Insurance 

Listen, some trips are too risky to skip insurance. If any of these apply, click ‘YES’ and don’t look back:

  • You just dropped BIG money on this trip. If your flight, hotel, and excursions are non-refundable, you need a safety net.

  • You're traveling internationally. Bestie, your regular health insurance probably won’t cover you abroad. One hospital visit? You’re looking at thousands.

  • You’re going somewhere with unpredictable weather. Hurricane season? Snowstorms? Flight cancellations are real.

  • You’ve got a connecting flight. If the first one gets delayed, you might be stuck buying a whole new ticket.

  • You have a pre-existing health condition. Some policies cover medical emergencies related to existing conditions but not all. Always check the fine print.

Bestie Tip: If your trip is cheap, refundable, and local, you don’t need full coverage but keep reading because some insurance is actually free!


What Travel Insurance Really Covers (And What’s Just Fluff) 

Girl, not all policies are created equal. Here’s what you should actually care about:

  • Trip Cancellation & Interruption – Covers non-refundable flights, hotels, and excursions if something serious happens (sickness, injury, etc.).

  • Emergency Medical Coverage – Pays for hospital visits, medications, and even emergency medical evacuations.

  • Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Luggage – If your bags take a separate vacation without you, this helps replace essentials.

  • Flight Delays & Cancellations – Reimburses hotels, meals, and new flights if things go left.

  • Rental Car Protection – Skips those overpriced add-ons at the rental counter.

What’s NOT covered? Some policies won’t cover:
  • Pre-existing conditions (unless specifically stated)

  • Extreme sports & risky activities

  • Changing your mind last minute (girl, “I don’t feel like going” isn’t a covered reason!)

 Bestie Tip: If an airline or cruise line offers their own insurance, skip it! Their policies are usually super limited.

 

Don’t Pay for What You Can Get for FREE! 

You might already have travel insurance and don’t even know it. Here’s how to check:

  1.  Your Credit Card Might Cover You!
    Some travel credit cards already include trip cancellation, baggage protection, and rental car coverage—so check before you pay extra.

  2.  Your Airline Might Owe You!
    If THEY cancel your flight, don’t let them offer you some weak travel credit. You can ask for cash refunds, rebooking, or even compensation.

  3.  Your Hotel Might Have a Flexible Policy!
    Many resorts and Airbnbs now offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in.

 Bestie Tip: Always read the fine print before buying extra coverage you don’t need.

 

Now, The Big Question. Should You Get Travel Insurance? 

YES, if… Your trip is expensive, international, or during bad weather seasons.
NO, if… It’s refundable, flexible, or covered by your credit card.

The Bottom Line? Don’t just click “YES” because it sounds smart. Know what you’re paying for. Get the right coverage for your trip without wasting a single dollar.

 Need help planning a stress-free, drama-free vacation? We got you.

 Explore Upcoming Trips with Built-In Peace of Mind.

Travel Boldly ~ Live Golden
Luxury adventures tailored to create meaningful, culture-rich experiences for groups ready to explore.

Golden Life Travels

Travel Boldly ~ Live Golden Luxury adventures tailored to create meaningful, culture-rich experiences for groups ready to explore.

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