Do I Need Travel Insurance for Medical Care Abroad?
When Travel Insurance is Recommended

Every so often, I get asked a question like this:
"Do you have any resources or recommendations regarding insurance coverage in the event someone has an accident or illness while traveling outside the USA? I know some travel companies offer policies, but I don’t know much about this type of coverage. We have clients traveling all over the world, and I understand that it can be quite expensive to get medical care abroad in the absence of insurance coverage."
It’s a great question—and one worth asking before you head off on your next trip.
Why Consider Travel Insurance?
Medical care abroad can be expensive, and in some places, you may be required to pay for services upfront before receiving care. U.S.-based health insurance, including Medicare, generally offers limited or no coverage outside the country. That’s where travel insurance comes in—it can give you peace of mind knowing you’ll have support in case of an accident or illness while you’re away.
When Travel Insurance is Recommended
- If your trip is arranged by a travel agent or tour company, review the travel insurance they offer. These policies often cover the entire trip and can be competitively priced.
- If you’re planning your own travel, consider a few factors before buying coverage:
- Where you’re going, and whether local medical facilities are accessible and reliable
- Whether language barriers or unfamiliar medical systems could pose challenges
- Activities planned—like hiking, biking, or excursions—that might carry a higher risk
- Whether you want just emergency medical coverage or a broader package (trip cancellation, baggage loss, etc.)
- The length of your trip
What Travel Insurance Costs
The cost of a travel insurance policy depends on many factors—destination, trip length, your age, and the level of coverage you choose. Some clients have found medical care abroad surprisingly affordable, while others have been faced with high out-of-pocket costs. Travel insurance helps protect you against the unpredictable.
How Can I Help?
I work with several travel insurance companies and can provide quotes tailored to your trip. All I need to get started is:
- The primary country you’ll be visiting
- Your dates of travel
From there, I’ll share options so you can select the coverage that’s right for you.
Final Thoughts
Traveling abroad should be exciting, not stressful. Taking the time to set up proper coverage ensures you’ll be protected if something unexpected happens.
If you’d like to learn more, start by visiting the Travel Insurance section on my website: https://www.benefitsbydesignca.com/life-insurance, or reach out directly. I’d be happy to walk you through the options and provide quotes for your next adventure.
Need coverage for your next trip?
I can provide personalized travel insurance quotes and help you compare your options so you can travel with confidence.
Pamela Morton
Benefits by Design Insurance Services
Phone: (760) 707-9868
Email: pam@benefitsbydesigninsurance.com
Website: www.benefitsbydesigninsurance.com