Trip Cancellation Insurance Explained

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Trip cancellation coverage may reimburse some prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel for a reason the policy lists as covered.

What it may cover

Non-refundable flights, hotels and tours you paid for in advance
Covered reasons that a policy may list, such as certain illnesses or injuries, or other events named in the policy

What it often does not cover

Changing your mind or not wanting to travel
Reasons the policy excludes, including some pre-existing conditions
Costs that are refundable from the airline, hotel or tour operator

Questions to ask

Which reasons for cancelling are covered?
How much of my prepaid trip cost is covered, and what is the maximum?
Are there deadlines to buy the plan after my first trip payment?
What documents do I need to make a claim?

Tip

Check refund policies first. If a booking is fully refundable, you may not need to insure that part of the trip.