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Card vs policy
A side-by-side of how they differ, and the questions that decide which covers your trip. We don’t tell you what to buy.
| Question | Card benefit | Standalone policy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Included with the card (you pay its annual fee, if any) | Priced per trip, by trip cost, age, destination and coverage |
| Trip cancellation limit | Set by the card, e.g. $1,500–$15,000 per traveler or trip on the cards we checked | Usually chosen to match your insured trip cost |
| Medical treatment abroad | Not listed on most cards we checked; one lists $2,500 | Often included or available; limits vary by plan |
| Emergency evacuation | Listed with a dollar limit on a few cards; others offer a help line only | Often included; limits vary by plan |
| Cancel for any reason | Not listed on any card we checked | Sold as an optional upgrade by some insurers, with conditions |
| Payment rule | Usually must pay the fare, trip or rental with the card | Covers the trip you insure, however you paid |
| Rental car | Many cards: collision/theft of the car, primary or secondary, no liability | Some plans offer rental car damage as an option |
| Who decides claims | The card’s benefit administrator and insurer | The policy’s insurer |
Questions to answer for your trip
- How much is non-refundable? Compare it with your card’s trip-cancellation limit and whether the card covers hotels and tours or only fares.
- Did you (or will you) pay with the card? Most card benefits need the fare, trip or rental on that card.
- Are you leaving the US? Check whether your health plan covers you abroad, and whether your card lists any medical or evacuation coverage.
- Who’s traveling? Card benefits define “covered travelers” or “family members”; check that everyone is included.
- What could stop you going? Compare the covered reasons in your Guide to Benefits with what worries you, such as illness, work or weather.
- Are you renting a car? Check primary vs secondary, excluded countries and vehicles, and that liability isn’t included.
This page gives general facts. It is not advice about any person’s situation, and it does not recommend any policy. Read your card’s Guide to Benefits and any policy’s terms before you decide. Disclaimer
Next step
Compare policies
If your card leaves gaps for this trip, compare what different policies include.
Compare travel insurance policiesGoes to our neutral guide on how to compare policies. We have no insurance partners yet.