The 8 Best Credit Cards for Travel Insurance Coverage and Protection [2026]

Securing travel insurance has become a priority for many travelers, but most people don’t know that you can actually get a substantial amount of travel insurance and coverage just from your credit card!

That said, not all credit cards offer the same level of travel insurance benefits. Read on to see a breakdown of travel coverages and benefit levels by card, as each has widely differing benefits. We’re exploring the travel insurance coverages offered on a select group of popular travel rewards cards.

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The Best Credit Cards for Travel Insurance Coverage (Summary)

• Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve^®
• Platinum Card^® from American Express
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• United Club℠ Card
• Sapphire Reserve for Business℠
• Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card
• The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

Best Credit Cards for Travel Insurance (Comparison Table)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card (Best Overall Card for Travel Insurance)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.24% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
• Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
• 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.24% - 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase is a major credit card issuer known for offering a strong selection of credit card travel insurance benefits. One of our top recommended cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card comes with a long list of valuable benefits and perks, including several travel insurance coverages.

Here are the major travel insurance coverages and protections you’ll get with this card:

• Car rental collision damage waiver: Reserve and pay for your rental car with your card, decline the rental car agency’s collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW), and receive primary car rental insurance coverage for damage or theft.
• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: Purchase your trip with your card or rewards earned on your card and receive up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per occurrence for up to $40,000 within a 12-month period when a covered event disrupts your trip.
• Trip delay reimbursement: If your trip is delayed for a covered reason by 12 hours or more or overnight, you could receive reimbursement for up to $100 per day for necessary incidentals for up to 5 days.
• Lost luggage reimbursement: Receive up to $3,000 per covered person per trip for checked and carry-on baggage that is lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Baggage delay: If your baggage is delayed 6 hours or more, you could receive reimbursement of up to $100 per day for 5 days for incidentals.
• Travel accident insurance: Should accidental death or dismemberment occur involving a common carrier, and if you purchased the trip with your card, you could receive up to $500,000 for common carrier travel accident insurance and up to $100,000 for 24-hour travel accident insurance.
• Roadside dispatch: Pay a set, prenegotiated fee per service call for towing, tire changing, fuel, jump-starting, lock-out service, and more.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: Receive assistance when traveling away from home with message relays, referral services for legal and medical assistance, emergency transportation, and more. Cardholders are responsible for the cost of actual services.

In addition to offering good travel benefits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card has rewards and additional benefits:

• 5x points on Lyft (through September 30, 2027)
• 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 5x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $150 (through December 31, 2027)
• 3x points on dining, some streaming services, and online groceries
• 2x points on other travel
• 10% cardmember anniversary bonus based on total dollar amount spent
• $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit
• Redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card for up to 1.75 cents each for travel via the Chase Travel portal or Chase transfer partners for even greater potential value.
• Purchase protection and extended warranty
• No foreign transaction fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve^® (Best for Premium Travel Insurance)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

125,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$2,500

Annual Fee

$795

APR

19.49% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like worldwide airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus, it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to cover you at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
• 5x points on Lyft rides
• 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly

Cons

• $795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
• Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^® every 4 years
• Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
• Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Want a premium travel rewards card with best-in-class travel benefits? The Chase Sapphire Reserve card might be a fit.

Here’s a sample of the premium travel insurance benefits you can expect on the card:

• Car rental collision damage waiver: Pay for your rental car bill entirely with your card, decline the rental car agency’s damage waiver coverage, and receive primary car rental coverage for damage or theft.
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: With pne of the most valuable travel insurance coverages, the card’s trip cancellation and interruption insurance pays up to $10,000 per occurrence. Limits cap out at $20,000 per incident and $40,000 within a 12-month period.
• Trip delay reimbursement: If your trip is delayed for a covered reason by 6 hours or more, or overnight, you could receive reimbursement for up to $100 per day for necessary incidentals for up to 5 days.
• Lost luggage eeimbursement: If your checked or carry-on luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged, you could receive up to $3,000 per person per trip.
• Baggage delay: If your baggage is delayed 6 hours or more, you could receive up to $100 per day in reimbursement for incidentals for up to 5 days.
• Medical evacuation insurance: If you or an eligible family member become ill or injured when traveling, you could receive emergency transport coverage up to $100,000.
• Emergency medical and dental benefit: Receive up to $2,500 for emergency treatment should you or an eligible family member become ill or injured when traveling 100 miles or more from home.
• Travel accident insurance: Pay for your trip with your card and receive up to $1 million should accidental death or dismemberment occur.
• Roadside assistance: Receive up to 4 free $50 service calls each year at no cost should your vehicle break down when away from home.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: Make 1 phone call and receive medical or legal referrals, assistance with emergency transportation, and more.

While the Chase Sapphire Reserve card has a high annual fee, it could earn its place in your wallet if you spend a lot on travel, value its worldwide lounge access, and use the $300 travel statement credit.

See what’s great about the Chase Sapphire Reserve card outside of the travel insurance perks:

• Priority Pass Select membership with access to more than 1,300 lounge and lounge-alternative properties worldwide
• Redeem Ultimate Rewards points with Points Boost for up to 2 cents each on select flights and hotels via the Chase Travel portal or transfer points at a ratio of 1:1 to airline and hotel partners for potentially greater value
• $300 statement credit for travel purchases each card anniversary year
• Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck application fee reimbursement as a statement credit
• 5x points on Lyft purchases, plus a $10 monthly in-app credit (through September 30, 2027)
• 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $150 and up to $10 a month in statement credits (up to $120 each year) for eligible Peloton membership purchases (valid through December 31, 2027, activation required)
• 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
• 3x points on dining
• Luxury hotel benefits via The Edit by Chase Travel and up to $500 in statement credits annually for stays with The Edit (comes as 2 separate credits of up to $250 each, with a 2-night minimum)
• Car rental status privileges with National and Avis
• No foreign transaction fees
• Up to $250 in statement credits for some prepaid hotel bookings made via Chase Travel (through December 31, 2026)

Hot Tip: Read our comprehensive article on the benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card for a more detailed look.

Want help deciding which of these Chase cards is a fit for you? We’ve gathered all the information in our comparison of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card vs. the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

Platinum Card^® from American Express (Best Amex Card for Travel Insurance)

BEST LOUNGE CARD

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.  

As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than the Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

 

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment (airline credit, Uber Cash and Uber One, Resy, lululemon credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR+ credit, and Equinox credit)
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
• Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts and Amex International Airline Program
• Access to Amex transfer partners
• No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

 

Cons

• $895 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

 

 

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
• Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges.* As of 07/2025.
• $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
• $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
• $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® to make eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you.
• $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
• Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
• $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.* Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
• Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
• $895 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

 

 

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Platinum card is easily one of the best cards for travel. We like it because it earns valuable Membership Rewards points, offers flexible redemption options, and comes with plenty of statement credits for specific purchases.

When it comes to travel insurance benefits and protections, the Amex Platinum card is also a winner. Note that terms may apply and enrollment may be required, so make sure you check your American Express account to ensure you’re enrolled in your benefits!

Here’s what you can expect from the Amex Platinum card in the way of travel insurance benefits:

• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: Receive up to $10,000 per covered trip, to a maximum of $20,000 within a 12-month period, should your trip be disrupted by a covered event.
• Trip delay coverage: If a trip you paid for with your card is delayed 6 hours or more, you could receive up to $500 per trip, to a limit of 2 claims per 12-month period, for necessary incidentals.
• Car rental loss and damage insurance: The card has secondary car rental insurance, which means you must file a claim with your own insurance first. However, cardholders can purchase Amex Premium Car Rental Protection for $12.99 to $24.99, which covers the entire rental period up to 42 consecutive days.
• Baggage insurance plan: Use your card to pay for your ticket for coverage of up to $2,000 for checked baggage and $3,000 for carry-on baggage. There’s a maximum combined total of $3,000 per person and $10,000 per trip if your bags are lost, damaged, or stolen.
• Premium Global Assist hotline: Receive needed emergency assistance whenever you’re more than 100 miles from home. The coverage also includes emergency medical evacuation for the cardholder and qualifying family members with no specified dollar limit.

In addition to useful travel insurance benefits, cardholders receive better earnings on flights and prepaid hotels, travel-related and shopping benefits, flexible redemption choices, and statement credits for select purchases. Some of the benefits, including some of those listed below, require enrollment through your American Express account.

What we like about the Amex Platinum card:

• Redeem points for 1 cent each for flights via AmexTravel.com.
• Use American Express transfer partners for potentially greater value.
• Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and Leaders Club elite status
• Hertz, National, and Avis car rental perks and benefits
• Worldwide airport lounge access to over 1,550 properties, including the Centurion lounge network
• Elite benefits at American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee
• Up to $300 in digital entertainment credits every year
• Up to $400 in Resy credits every year and access to Platinum Nights by Resy
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash every year (broken into up to $15 monthly credits with a $20 bonus in December, for use on U.S. rides and Eats orders, and you must add your card to your Uber account and pay with an Amex card to earn and use this benefit)
• Up to $120 in Uber One credits every year
• Up to $300 in lululemon credits every year
• Up to $300 in Equinox credits every year
• Up to $200 in airline fee credits every year
• Up to $209 in CLEAR+ credits every year
• Purchase protection, return protection, cell phone protection, and extended warranty

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (Best Capital One Card for Travel Insurance)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
• Top rated mobile app

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Purchases: 19.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

The Capital One Venture X card is Capital One’s ultrapremium personal credit card. This card has a lot of benefits and features going for it, but it’s particularly noteworthy when it comes to travel insurance and protections:

• Car rental collision damage waiver: Pay for your rental car bill entirely with your card, decline the rental car agency’s coverage, and receive primary car rental coverage for damage or theft.
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: Although not as good as the other cards’, this card’s trip cancellation and interruption insurance pays up to $2,000 per ticket.
• Trip delay reimbursement: If your trip is delayed for a covered reason by 6 hours or more or requires an overnight stay, you could receive reimbursement for up to $500 for necessary incidentals.
• Lost luggage reimbursement: If your checked or carry-on luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged, you could receive reimbursement of up to $3,000 per person, per trip.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: You can call for medical or legal referrals, assistance with emergency transportation, and more.

The Capital One Venture X card has other noteworthy benefits and rewards that can add value to your travel:

• 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles on all other purchases
• 10,000-mile anniversary bonus after every renewal year
• $300 annual Capital One Travel credit
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
• Hertz President’s Circle status
• Access to Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges (after enrollment)
• Cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees

United Club℠ Card (Best United Card for Travel Insurance)

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

United Club℠ Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

United Club℠ Card

Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 110,000 United MileagePlus bonus miles and 3,000 PQP after spending $5,000 on qualifying purchases in the first three months of opening an account (100K + 10K more miles with an authorized user).

Up to 110,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,320

Annual Fee

$695

APR

19.74% - 28.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The United Club℠ Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.

United frequent flyers will find that the United Club card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• NEW! 11x total miles on eligible United flights and 5x miles on all other eligible United^® purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on dining and other travel purchases
• Complimentary United Club membership

Cons

• $695 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 110,000 bonus miles and 3,000 PQP
• NEW! 11x total miles on eligible United flights and 5x miles on all other eligible United^® purchases
• 2x miles on dining and all other travel
• 1x mile on all other purchases
• United Club^SM card membership – at least a $750 value
• Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and Premier Access^® travel services.
• Earn up to 20,000-miles in award flight discounts annually
• NEW! Save at least 10% when booking flights with miles. Premier members earn even more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% - 28.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Club card is the ultimate premium travel credit card for United travelers. In addition to a well-rounded collection of travel benefits, it offers benefits specific to traveling with United Airlines. Let’s take a look at the travel insurance perks:

• Car rental collision damage waiver: Pay for the entire rental with your card, decline the agency’s coverage, and receive primary car rental coverage for damage and theft.
• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: If your trip is disrupted by a covered event, you can expect to receive up to $10,000 per covered person, with a total of $20,000 per trip for associated prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Trip delay reimbursement: Once your trip is delayed by 12 hours or overnight, you may receive reimbursement for incidentals of up to $100 per day for 5 days, up to $500 per ticket.
• Lost luggage reimbursement: If you or your eligible family member’s luggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you could receive a benefit of up to $3,000 for checked or carry-on luggage.
• Baggage delay insurance: If your baggage is delayed more than 6 hours, you could receive up to $100 per day for up to 3 days in reimbursement for incidentals.
• Medical evacuation insurance: If you become ill or injured when traveling, you could receive emergency transport coverage of up to $100,000. Eligible family members are also covered.
• Roadside assistance: Receive up to 4 service calls each year at no cost, up to $50 in value, should you break down when away from home.
• Travel accident insurance: Pay for your common carrier trip with your card and receive up to $500,000 for accidental death or dismemberment.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: Use United’s dedicated phone line when traveling and receive medical or legal referrals, assistance with emergency transportation, and more.

Now let’s take a look at what you can expect for United-specific benefits on the card.

• Complimentary upgrades on United award flights
• United Club membership ($750 value)
• First and second checked bag free for the cardholder and 1 companion
• Premier Access Services, including priority check-in, security screening, boarding, and baggage handling
• Expanded access to award space inventory
• 10% discount on United Economy Saver awards
• Up to 20,000 miles in award flight discounts (a 10,000-mile discount after you spend $20,000 on the card each calendar year, up to 2 times a year)

While there’s plenty of value for United Airlines travelers and a good foundation of travel benefits on the card, there are still more reasons to consider the United Club card:

• 2x miles for travel and dining purchases
• Statement credit for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck application fee
• Avis President’s Club status
• IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status
• Renowned Hotels and Resorts credits of up to $200 on prepaid bookings each anniversary year
• Visa Infinite concierge services
• Purchase protection and return protection
• No foreign transaction fees

There are also opportunities to save on purchases with Avis or Budget, ride-hailing services (yearly opt-in required), JSX, and Instacart (benefits end December 31, 2027).

Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (Best Overall Business Card for Travel Insurance)

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Sapphire Reserve for Business℠

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business card is perfect for frequent traveler business owners who want premium perks.

Apply Now

Sapphire Reserve for Business℠

The Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business card is perfect for frequent traveler business owners who want premium perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening and access more than $6,000 in total business and travel value in your first year.

150,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$3,000

Annual Fee

$795

APR

Flex for Business Variable APR: 17.74% - 28.49%

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card is a great pick for business owners who can easily make use of the annual credits for travel, Google Workspace, ZipRecruiter, and more. Plus, it offers helpful bonus categories such as ad spend and offers access to over 1,300 airport lounges — including Chase Sapphire Lounges.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x points on Chase Travel purchases
• 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
• 3x points on advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines (uncapped)

Cons

• $795 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 150,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
• $6,000+ in value your first year. 150K points, valued at $3,000 for select flights and hotels through Chase Travel℠, plus $3,000+ in annual value through travel and business benefits.
• Earn 8x points on Chase Travel℠ for airline tickets, hotels, including The Edit℠, car rentals, cruises, activities and tours.
• Earn 5x total points on Lyft rides through 9/30/27.
• Earn 4x points on flights & hotels booked direct.
• Earn 3x points on social media & search engine advertising.
• Get the most flexible travel credit compared to any other card, with up to $300 in statement credits each anniversary year on travel purchases.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Chase Sapphire Lounge^® by The Club network and Priority Pass™ Select membership. Two guests may accompany the Primary Cardmember to the lounges free of charge.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: Flex for Business Variable APR: 17.74% - 28.49%
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card offers the same top-tier travel insurance protections as the personal version of the card, including a car rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, and trip delay insurance.

It has a large annual fee of up to $795, but features numerous credits to offset that expense, including:

• Up to a $300 annual travel credit that can be applied toward purchases of flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more
• Up to a $500 annual credit for stays with The Edit by Chase Travel, delivered in 2 $250 credits (2-night minimum stay required)
• Up to a $400 annual ZipRecruiter credit, delivered in 2 $200 biannual credits
• Up to a $200 annual Google Workspace credit
• Up to a $100 Giftcards.com credit, delivered in 2 $50 biannual credits
• Up to $300 annually in monthly DoorDash promos ($5 restaurant credit and 2 $10 nonrestaurant credits) and a complimentary DashPass membership worth $120 annually (activate by December 31, 2027)
• Up to $120 in annual Lyft in-app credits, up to $10 monthly (through September 30, 2027)
• Up to a $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS credit every 4 years

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card (Best Business Card for Travel Insurance With a Low Annual Fee)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

100,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$2,000

Annual Fee

$95

APR

17.74% - 26.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Cell phone protection
• Purchase protection

Cons

• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Earn 5x total points on Lyft rides through 9/30/27.
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Go further when you book with Chase Travel℠. Enjoy competitive rates, seamless booking and premium benefits.
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Receive complimentary access to DashPass by DoorDash.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 17.74% - 26.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Ink Business Preferred card has the same travel benefits and protections as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, with these exceptions:

• Trip cancellation and trip interruption: The limit for these coverages on the Ink Business Preferred card is $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip.
• Cell phone protection: Pay your cell phone bill with your card and receive $1,000 in cell phone protection, with a $100 deductible.

You can also expect these benefits:

• 3x earnings on travel, internet service, cable, phone purchases, advertising on social media and search engines, and shipping (up to $150,000 in purchases each card anniversary year)
• 5x earnings or 5% cash back on Lyft purchases through September 30, 2027
• Redeem points for up to 1.75 cents each via the Chase Travel portal or transfer to airline or hotel partners for potentially greater value.
• Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection benefits
• Purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express (Best Premium Business Card for Travel Insurance)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.  

As High As 300,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $6,600

Annual Fee

$895

APR

17.74% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Amex Business Platinum Card is a premium travel rewards card tailored for business owners who are frequent travelers with high annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers, like the best airport lounge access at over 1,550 lounges and numerous annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through AmexTravel.com
• Access to over 1,550 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)
• Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
• Generous statement credits on select purchases with your card (including credits for airline incidentals, prepaid hotels, CLEAR, Dell, and Hilton)
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program
• Hotel elite status with Hilton, Marriott, and Leading Hotels of the World upon enrollment

 

Cons

• High annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

 

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
• See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
• Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
• Make the Business Platinum Card^® work even harder for you. Hilton for Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Gift cards are not an eligible purchase. Benefit enrollment required.
• Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
• Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR+ Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
• Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
• Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
• Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
• Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
• Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
• 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
• 1X points on other eligible purchases
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 17.74% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

 

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 300,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum card. Find out your offer. Terms Apply.

 

The Amex Business Platinum card offers the same travel insurance benefits as the personal version. Its other features and benefits differ. As with the personal card, terms may apply, and enrollment may be required to receive the stated benefits. Verify your enrollment in your American Express account.

Cardholders also get these benefits:

• Redeem Membership Rewards points for 1 cent each for flights via AmexTravel.com or transfer to airline/hotel partners for potentially greater value.
• 35% rebate on airfare booked on points with your preselected airline via AmexTravel.com
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee statement credit
• Worldwide airport lounge access to over 1,550 properties, including Centurion lounges
• Elite-level benefits at American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• National, Avis, and Hertz car rental elite status and perks
• Up to a $150 statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (earn an additional $1,000 statement credit after spending $5,000 or more)
• Up to a $360 statement credit for U.S. Indeed purchases
• $250 statement credit for U.S. Adobe purchases after spending $600 or more
• Up to $120 in U.S. wireless statement credits
• Up to a $200 airline fee credit
• Up to a $200 Hilton statement credit
• Up to $600 in hotel credits on bookings at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection when booking through Amex Travel. The Hotel Collection bookings require a 2-night minimum stay.

You can also unlock 2 additional credits by spending $250,000 in a calendar year: up to $1,200 in statement credits for flights booked online at AmexTravel.com and up to $2,400 in statement credits for American Express One AP monthly fees. The credits are available the following year after earning.

Hot Tip: Access our comprehensive article on the travel insurance benefits offered on American Express cards for more detailed information.

Types of Credit Card Travel Insurance

There are many variations of credit card travel insurance. Here is a look at some of the different types of coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Protection

Trip cancellation or trip interruption coverage can be a valuable benefit if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason, such as illness, or if your trip is disrupted by a covered event, such as weather.

Both the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and Chase Sapphire Reserve card provide up to $10,000 per person, $20,000 per occurrence, and up to $40,000 during a 12-month period.

Trip Delay Coverage

Several credit cards offer a benefit if your trip is delayed, but many require a delay of more than 12 hours and provide a low benefit of $100 per day for up to 3 days. The best trip delay cards offer elevated benefit levels for delays of 6 hours or more and up to $100 a day for up to 5 days.

To learn more about the best credit cards for trip delay coverage, check out our detailed comparison.

Rental Car Insurance

A credit card could offer primary or secondary car rental coverage. Secondary coverage requires you to first file a claim with your own insurance, while primary coverage does not.

We like the Chase Sapphire Preferred card best because it charges a low annual fee while still offering a long list of travel insurance benefits, including primary car insurance coverage.

Check out our recommendations for additional cards with primary car rental insurance.

Travel Accident Insurance

Travel accident insurance is widely offered but seldom used. According to the most recent available data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, deaths on U.S. air or commuter carriers are rare.

However, the best cards for travel accident insurance provide peace of mind that there would be a benefit offered if an accidental death or dismemberment should occur. We like that these cards offer up to $1 million in coverage.

Emergency Evacuation Insurance

Should a medical emergency occur and you need to evacuate, you could face a steep bill. According to the travel insurance company Allianz, emergency evacuations cost at least $15,000 and can exceed $200,000.

The Amex Platinum card and Amex Business Platinum card provide coverage for emergency evacuation with Premium Global Assistance with no specified limit.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card and United Club card have $100,000 in emergency evacuation coverage and $2,500 for emergency medical and dental services.

Lost or Delayed Baggage

Bags can be lost, damaged, stolen, or delayed, so holding one of the best credit cards for lost baggage can help if things go wrong during your trip. These coverages can offer up to $100 per day for a maximum of 5 days if your baggage is delayed for more than 6 hours, or up to $3,000 per covered person for lost luggage.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance (or roadside dispatch) usually means you have a dedicated phone line to call for referral services when you have a vehicular roadside emergency.

Services can include towing, tire changes, emergency fuel, and other related vehicle breakdown services. Basic roadside assistance coverage is complimentary with many of the best credit cards for roadside assistance.

Bottom Line: While a particular card may stand out over another in specific benefits, you won’t go wrong selecting any one of these premium travel rewards cards for their overall package of travel insurance benefits. 

Main Benefit of Having a Credit Card With Travel Insurance

The main benefit of having a credit card with travel insurance is that it can save you money, time, and stress if anything goes wrong during your travels.

Having a card with trip delay insurance can cover a hotel and other necessities if your flight is delayed overnight. A card with baggage delay insurance can cover the cost of new clothes and toiletries if the airline misplaces your bag. Renting a car? No need to pay extra for the rental company’s insurance policy when your credit card provides one as a complimentary benefit.

No one wants to think about things going awry during their trip, but these things do happen, and when they do, you’ll be immensely thankful that you have a credit card with travel insurance.

What To Look For in a Card for Travel Insurance Coverage and Protection

Many credit cards come with various levels of complimentary travel benefits and protections. And while credit card travel insurance coverages are not meant to replace a comprehensive travel insurance policy, the coverage may still be sufficient for most of your trips.

We’ll get down to the specifics of which travel insurance coverages are offered on credit cards shortly, but first, let’s talk about some of the limitations of these benefits and protections.

As with all types of insurance, there are exclusions, terms, and conditions. Here are some of the most common ones normally associated with credit card travel insurance:

• If you decide not to fly, flight cancellation insurance on your credit card will not provide coverage. In fact, only the reasons published in the card’s guide to benefits are covered for trip cancellations.
• Credit card travel insurance, such as trip cancellation, interruption, or delay coverage or lost or delayed baggage insurance, is normally secondary to any other reimbursement you may receive. You must usually make a claim with the travel provider or other applicable coverage you might have before coverage applies.
• Credit cards require that the trip be paid for, in whole or in part, using the eligible credit card or the card’s associated rewards points.
• There are conditions for the car rental insurance on your credit card to apply, such as declining coverage with the car rental agency.
• The claim process can be difficult, as credit card issuers do not handle travel insurance claims directly. Claims are processed by a third-party administrator, which may require extensive information, documentation, and follow-up.

There can be many other exclusions and conditions for coverage to be valid, which is common with insurance in general, but the travel insurance that comes with your credit card can still offer tremendous value.

Bottom Line: While many credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance, benefit levels can vary widely. Additionally, there are coverage exclusions, terms and conditions that must be met, and in many cases, the credit card coverage is secondary to that of the travel provider. The claim process can also be challenging. Despite all this, credit card travel insurance can be worth it. 

How To Submit a Travel Insurance Claim

The exact process for submitting a claim under your travel insurance protection varies by card issuer, but here are a few must-do steps.

Call Your Issuer

Call the bank that issues the credit card and let them know the issue you are having. They can then walk you through your coverage details, how to submit a claim, and how long it might take to receive your reimbursement.

Know What Is Covered

Reading the terms of your credit card policy can give you a good idea of which purchases should and should not be covered. If you’re filing a claim for trip delay insurance, reasonable expenses such as hotel stays and meals should be covered. However, extravagant or unnecessary purchases, such as a luxury resort or a new laptop, are likely to be denied.

Keep Your Receipts

When you submit your claim, you need to provide proof of all your purchases and the amounts you’re requesting reimbursement for. Keep receipts for every expense you incur, and consider making copies of any receipts that aren’t digital.

Final Thoughts

The coverage you have on your credit cards may be sufficient not only to provide peace of mind but also to serve as a more-than-adequate backup coverage if the airline or other travel provider doesn’t come through should something go wrong during your travels.

Also, keep in mind that premium travel rewards cards typically have high annual fees. If you don’t find value in their superior benefits, selecting a card with fewer benefits and a lower annual fee may be an appropriate alternative.

Keep in mind that we have not listed every benefit on each card, and descriptions have been abbreviated. Before traveling, you should reference your card’s benefits guide or call the number on the back of your card for specific coverage information.

Plus, if you’re planning an expensive or complicated trip, it’s best to purchase a travel insurance policy that will cover that specific trip or an annual travel insurance policy that covers all of the trips you might take in those 12 months.

If you’re worried about canceling a trip for reasons not listed in the card’s coverage description, you could consider cancel-for-any-reason insurance. Credit card travel insurance will not cover a voluntary cancellation.

To learn more about purchasing travel insurance, check out our additional articles on the topic:

• The Best Travel Insurance Companies for All Travelers
• An Introductory Guide to Travel Insurance

If you’re comfortable with the financial risk of a specific trip being disrupted, there’s no need to purchase a standalone travel insurance policy.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our Medical & Legal Disclaimers.