How much travel insurance costs in 2025

[UNITED STATES] Travel insurance is an essential investment for anyone planning a trip in 2025. It offers protection against unforeseen events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. As with most insurance products, the price of travel insurance can vary depending on multiple factors, including the destination, duration, and the traveler’s age. But how much can you expect to pay on average in 2025?

Average Travel Insurance Cost

As of 2025, the average travel insurance premium is around $322.01 for a trip lasting 15 days. This represents an increase of about 1.73% compared to the previous week, indicating a slight rise in insurance prices. In general, travel insurance prices can fluctuate depending on demand, with peak travel seasons potentially driving prices higher.

If you are traveling within the United States, the premiums are typically more affordable, ranging from $83 to $426. On the other hand, international trips often see a higher premium due to additional coverage requirements like emergency medical evacuation.

Factors That Affect Travel Insurance Costs

Several factors can affect the cost of your travel insurance policy. Here are some of the main ones to consider:

1. Destination

The destination plays a significant role in determining the cost of travel insurance. Countries with higher living costs or destinations that are considered more risky may result in higher premiums. For example, a trip to Italy, with an average trip cost of $7,126.83, will result in an average insurance cost of $356-$713, while a trip to Mexico, with an average trip cost of $2,413.96, would only cost between $121-$241 for travel insurance.

2. Trip Cost and Length

As a general rule of thumb, travel insurance premiums are typically between 5% to 10% of the total trip cost. For a trip valued at around $7,032.84, which is the average trip cost this week, the corresponding travel insurance premium would be approximately $322.01. The longer your trip, the higher the premium, especially for policies that provide extensive coverage.

3. Traveler’s Age

The age of the traveler is another key factor influencing insurance premiums. The older you are, the higher your insurance costs, as older travelers may need more comprehensive medical coverage. For instance, a senior traveler might face higher rates than someone in their twenties or thirties due to the increased likelihood of health issues. This is particularly significant for those purchasing coverage for medical emergencies.

4. Coverage Type

The type of coverage you choose also determines the cost. Policies that include trip cancellation, for example, tend to be more expensive than those that don’t. Travelers looking for comprehensive coverage—including protection for delays, lost baggage, and trip interruption—should expect to pay more than those who opt for basic emergency medical coverage.

5. Insurance Provider

Different insurance providers offer varying premiums for the same level of coverage. It's wise to shop around and compare plans to ensure you're getting the best deal. Online comparison tools, such as those provided by SquareMouth, allow travelers to compare rates across different companies and find the right policy for their needs.

Travel Insurance Costs by Destination

Travel insurance premiums vary greatly depending on where you are traveling. Below is an overview of how the costs stack up for some popular destinations:

United States: Average trip cost of $4,711.29, with insurance ranging between $236-$471.

Mexico: Average trip cost of $2,413.96, with insurance ranging between $121-$241.

Italy: Average trip cost of $7,126.83, with insurance ranging between $356-$713.

United Kingdom: Average trip cost of $6,130.56, with insurance ranging between $307-$613.

Japan: Average trip cost of $5,671.56, with insurance ranging between $284-$567.

Bahamas: Average trip cost of $2,958.20, with insurance ranging between $148-$296.

France: Average trip cost of $5,711.28, with insurance ranging between $286-$571.

Spain: Average trip cost of $5,706.62, with insurance ranging between $285-$571.

Canada: Average trip cost of $4,567.73, with insurance ranging between $228-$457.

Costa Rica: Average trip cost of $3,363.89, with insurance ranging between $168-$336.

These figures show that more expensive destinations generally require higher insurance premiums. Destinations with more expensive healthcare systems or higher risks of natural disasters (like certain Caribbean islands) will also be more costly to insure against.

When to Buy Travel Insurance

It’s essential to purchase travel insurance early to ensure comprehensive coverage. According to a survey by AAA, 88% of travelers find trip cancellation coverage to be the most valuable benefit. Travelers who wait too long might miss out on coverage for certain events like trip cancellations.

Data from SquareMouth suggests that most travelers buy trip cancellation insurance approximately 53 days before their trip, while those opting for non-cancellation insurance tend to buy policies about 16 days before departure. It’s also important to remember that purchasing insurance close to your departure date might limit the coverage options available to you, especially for pre-existing medical conditions.

Average Cost by Age

A traveler’s age significantly influences the cost of travel insurance. For younger travelers, especially those under the age of 35, the premiums are generally lower, as they are less likely to encounter medical emergencies. However, seniors, especially those over the age of 60, will find their premiums higher due to increased health risks. Insurance providers consider older travelers to be higher risk, which drives up premiums for this demographic.

For example, the cost of travel insurance for a younger traveler (e.g., in their 20s or 30s) may be significantly less than that for someone over 65. As a result, if you're in the latter category, it’s crucial to ensure that your policy provides adequate medical coverage and is tailored to your specific needs.

How to Save on Travel Insurance

While travel insurance can seem costly, there are ways to reduce your premiums:

Bundle Travel Insurance with Other Insurance Policies: Some insurance providers offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies together, such as health, life, or car insurance.

Choose a Higher Deductible: If you are willing to take on more financial responsibility in the event of a claim, opting for a higher deductible can reduce your premium costs.

Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison tools to find the best deals and ensure you’re getting the right coverage at the right price.

Buy Early: As mentioned, buying your insurance early can often reduce costs, particularly if you’re looking for trip cancellation coverage.

In 2025, the average cost of travel insurance is around $322.01 for a two-week trip. However, the actual premium you will pay depends on factors like your destination, trip cost, traveler’s age, and the type of coverage you choose. Travelers should budget for travel insurance as part of their overall trip costs and shop around to find the best deals. By considering the various factors at play and planning ahead, you can ensure you have the protection you need without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, purchasing travel insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind on your journey, safeguarding you from unexpected emergencies.