Credit Card Travel Protection vs Travel Insurance

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Some credit cards include travel benefits, such as limited trip delay or baggage protection, when you pay for the trip with that card. A standalone travel insurance plan may offer different or broader coverage.

How they can differ

Coverage types: cards often cover a limited set of events, while plans may add medical and emergency transport coverage
Limits: card benefits often have lower limits
Conditions: card benefits usually apply only if you pay for the trip, or part of it, with that card
Claims: the process and documents may differ

What to check on your card

Which benefits are included for your card and account type
What the limits and exclusions are
Whether coverage is primary or secondary, meaning whether it pays first or after another policy
Whether medical coverage is included at all

Tip

Request your card's guide to benefits and compare it with a plan's policy document before you decide.