Medicare and travel
Original Medicare generally does not cover care outside the U.S., with very limited exceptions. Some Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans offer limited foreign travel emergency cover. Check yours before you go; see Medicare's travel page.
What to prioritize
- Emergency medical: a high limit, ideally primary cover.
- Medical evacuation: often the most expensive claim for older travelers.
- Pre-existing condition waiver: buy within the time window after your first trip payment.
- Cancellation for a family member's illness: important if you care for a spouse or relative.
Compare plans for your trip
See quotes from several insurers side by side.
Keeping costs down
Insure only non-refundable costs, compare several insurers (age pricing differs a lot), and consider medical-only cover if your bookings are refundable.
Read more
See our guide to pre-existing conditions.
Find a plan that fits your budget
Estimate your price, then compare insurers side by side.
General information only, not insurance advice. Coverage varies by plan, state and country. Always read the policy wording before you buy.