Traveling is one of the most exciting things you can do, but it is not always without risks. Travel insurance can help protect you from unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or delays, and lost baggage. However, buying travel insurance for every trip can be both expensive and time-consuming. That is why annual travel insurance is a popular option for frequent travelers. This article will discuss the best annual travel insurance options available in the market today and help you choose the right one for your needs.
What is Annual Travel Insurance?
Annual travel insurance is a type of policy that provides coverage for multiple trips taken within a year. Also known as multi-trip insurance, it is designed for people who travel frequently for business or leisure. Annual travel insurance policies typically include coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen baggage, and personal liability. Some policies may also offer additional benefits such as rental car excess, flight accidents, or travel delay.
Most annual travel insurance policies have a maximum trip duration of 90 days. That means you can travel as many times as you want during the year, as long as each trip does not exceed 90 days. You may also have the option to include your family members or travel companions under the same policy.
Who Needs Annual Travel Insurance?
If you travel more than once a year, annual travel insurance can save you time and money. Instead of buying a separate policy for each trip, you can get one policy that covers all your travels for the year. Annual travel insurance is also suitable for people who engage in adventure sports or activities that are not covered by standard travel insurance.
It is crucial to remember that travel insurance is not a luxury but a necessity. Even if you are healthy and have never experienced travel mishaps before, it only takes one incident to ruin your vacation and your finances. Annual travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen circumstances.
Top Annual Travel Insurance Providers
There are many annual travel insurance providers in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. To help you make an informed decision, we have researched and evaluated the best annual travel insurance providers based on coverage, cost, customer service, and reputation. Here are our top picks:
Insurance Company |
Coverage |
Cost (for one adult) |
Customer Service |
Reputation |
---|---|---|---|---|
Allianz Global Assistance |
Medical expenses Emergency evacuation Trip cancellation/interruption Baggage delay/loss Travel delay 24/7 assistance |
$200-$300 |
24/7 support Positive customer reviews |
Excellent |
World Nomads |
Medical expenses Emergency evacuation Trip cancellation/interruption Baggage delay/loss Adventure sports coverage 24/7 assistance |
$350-$500 |
24/7 support Positive customer reviews |
Good |
AXA Assistance USA |
Medical expenses Emergency evacuation Trip cancellation/interruption Baggage delay/loss 24/7 assistance |
$200-$300 |
24/7 support Positive customer reviews |
Good |
Seven Corners |
Medical expenses Emergency evacuation Trip cancellation/interruption Baggage delay/loss Adventure sports coverage 24/7 assistance |
$250-$350 |
24/7 support Positive customer reviews |
Good |
Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the world, offering a range of travel insurance options, including annual travel insurance. Its annual travel insurance plan provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage delay or loss, and travel delay. The plan is available for individuals, families, or groups and includes 24/7 assistance. Allianz Global Assistance also offers a money-back satisfaction guarantee.
The cost of Allianz Global Assistance annual travel insurance plan ranges from $200 to $300 per person, depending on the coverage and destination. Optional coverage for adventure sports or high-value items is available for an additional fee.
Customers have praised Allianz Global Assistance for its speedy claims processing and excellent customer service. However, some customers have reported difficulty getting a hold of the company’s customer service during emergencies.
World Nomads
World Nomads is a popular travel insurance provider among backpackers, adventure travelers, and digital nomads. Its annual travel insurance plan provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage delay or loss, and adventure sports activities. The plan is available for individuals, families, or groups and includes 24/7 assistance. World Nomads also offers a range of travel resources, including safety tips, travel guides, and blogs.
The cost of World Nomads annual travel insurance plan ranges from $350 to $500 per person, depending on the coverage and destination. The plan does not cover pre-existing medical conditions, and optional coverage for high-value items is available for an additional fee.
Customers have praised World Nomads for its comprehensive coverage, easy-to-use website, and responsive customer service. However, some customers have reported difficulty making claims or receiving reimbursement.
AXA Assistance USA
AXA Assistance USA is part of the AXA Group, a global insurance and investment firm. Its annual travel insurance plan provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and baggage delay or loss. The plan is available for individuals, families, or groups and includes 24/7 assistance. AXA Assistance USA also offers a range of travel assistance services, including concierge and translation services.
The cost of AXA Assistance USA annual travel insurance plan ranges from $200 to $300 per person, depending on the coverage and destination. Optional coverage for adventure sports or rental car excess is available for an additional fee.
Customers have praised AXA Assistance USA for its competitive pricing, prompt customer service, and user-friendly website. However, some customers have reported difficulty getting a hold of the company’s customer service during emergencies.
Seven Corners
Seven Corners is a travel insurance provider that specializes in international travel. Its annual travel insurance plan provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage delay or loss, and adventure sports activities. The plan is available for individuals or families and includes 24/7 assistance. Seven Corners also offers additional services, such as travel medical and security services, travel concierge, and student travel insurance.
The cost of Seven Corners annual travel insurance plan ranges from $250 to $350 per person, depending on the coverage and destination. Optional coverage for high-value items or extreme sports is available for an additional fee.
Customers have praised Seven Corners for its excellent customer service, comprehensive coverage, and hassle-free claims process. However, some customers have reported that the claims process can be slow, and the company may require excessive documentation.
FAQ
1. What does annual travel insurance cover?
Annual travel insurance typically covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage delay or loss, and travel delay. Some policies may also cover rental car excess, flight accidents, or adventure sports activities.
2. How much does annual travel insurance cost?
The cost of annual travel insurance depends on various factors such as the age, destination, trip duration, and coverage. On average, annual travel insurance can range from $200 to $500 per person.
3. How many trips can I take with annual travel insurance?
Most annual travel insurance policies allow unlimited trips within a year, as long as each trip does not exceed 90 days. Some policies may have a limit on the number of trips you can take.
4. Can I include my family members in my annual travel insurance policy?
Yes, many annual travel insurance policies allow you to include your spouse and dependent children under the same policy. Some policies may have a limit on the number of family members you can include.
5. Do I need annual travel insurance if I already have health insurance?
Yes, you may need annual travel insurance even if you have health insurance. Most health insurance policies do not provide coverage outside your home country or may have limited coverage for travel-related issues such as emergency evacuation or repatriation. Annual travel insurance can provide additional coverage and protection for unforeseen travel mishaps.
As you can see, annual travel insurance can be a cost-effective and convenient option for frequent travelers. Before choosing a policy, make sure to read the fine print, compare coverage and cost, and check customer reviews. With the right annual travel insurance policy, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you are protected against unexpected events.