Travel insurance is designed to protect you financially when the unexpected disrupts a trip. It typically covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays. For international travelers in particular, it can be a safeguard against the high costs of overseas medical care or emergency evacuations—expenses that can quickly reach thousands of dollars without coverage. Even a minor incident, such as a missed connection or lost baggage, can result in significant out-of-pocket costs that insurance helps offset.

One of the biggest advantages of travel insurance is the peace of mind it brings. Policies can reimburse non-refundable deposits if illness, family emergencies, or natural disasters force you to cancel. They can also help if your flight is delayed and you need to pay for extra hotel nights or meals. For adventure travelers, specific add-ons cover activities like skiing, diving, or trekking, which many basic plans exclude.

However, not every traveler needs a comprehensive policy. If you’re taking a short domestic trip, already have robust health coverage, or booked fully refundable tickets and hotels, the added expense may outweigh the benefits. Credit cards sometimes include built-in travel protection for trip interruptions or lost luggage, so it’s worth checking existing benefits before buying a separate plan.

The key is understanding your personal risk and the details of any policy. Read the fine print to confirm coverage limits, exclusions, and how to file a claim. Compare providers for reputation and customer service, not just price. Ultimately, travel insurance is about balancing cost against the potential financial hit of emergencies. For most international travelers and those with complex itineraries, it remains a smart investment in both security and stress-free travel.