Going abroad feels exciting—whether you’re off on a quick vacation, studying in a new country, handling business overseas, or starting fresh in a new place. But even short trips can bring unexpected surprises, especially when it comes to your health.
Here’s something many people don’t realize: your regular health insurance from home usually won’t work overseas. And if it does, it might require you to pay up front and maybe get reimbursed later—no guarantees. That creates stress fast, especially when you’re already dealing with a health issue far from home.
That’s where a good international health plan comes in. It gives you real coverage and real support when you need it most—before those “what ifs” turn into actual problems.
But it’s not just about the coverage. It’s about knowing someone has your back if something goes wrong.
What to look for in a good international travel health plan.
Not all plans are the same. Here are some features to keep an eye out for:
Medical evacuation and repatriation
Imagine facing a serious emergency—a major accident or sudden illness—and needing to get to a better-equipped hospital. That type of transport (called medical evacuation) can cost $30,000 to over $100,000.
Yes, really.
You need a plan that covers those costs fully and handles all the logistics. When you're in pain or feeling overwhelmed, you don’t want to figure out cross-border transport or how to pay for it.
Coverage limits
It’s important to know what’s actually covered—and how much. Some plans only cover a small portion of your medical costs or put limits on major things like hospital stays or surgeries.
Ask yourself:
- Does this plan cap how much it’ll pay for big stuff?
- Is everything I might need included?
Look for high coverage limits (like $1 million), even if you think you’ll never need that much, so you’re not stuck with surprise bills later. You’d be surprised at how fast it all adds up.
Pre-existing conditions
If you live with something like asthma, diabetes, or any ongoing condition, check the plan carefully. Some travel health plans leave out pre-existing conditions entirely.
If your condition flares up while you’re abroad, that could leave you in a tough spot.
If you’re managing any kind of health condition, make sure you’ve got the right coverage before you go.
Global telemedicine
Telemedicine makes getting care so much easier. But just like your U.S. health plan, the telemedicine services you use at home won’t work in other countries. That’s why you should look for an international health plan with global telemedicine services that you can use wherever your travels take you.
If your plan includes it, you can video chat with a doctor from anywhere—hotel room, cruise ship, safari tent, you name it. And you can usually see a doctor faster than you would in person.
It’s perfect for those small-but-urgent issues like rashes, fevers, or stomach bugs. Plus, you skip the hassle of finding a local clinic or sitting in a waiting room.
Best part? No claims, no hassles.
Handy digital tools
The best plans come with smart tools (like an app) that make life easier on the go. Look for things like:
- Provider finder tools to connect you with trusted care nearby
- Real-time alerts about your location for a heads up about safety issues, outbreaks, or political unrest
- Translation help for medical terms so nothing gets lost in translation
- Medicine equivalents because prescriptions and over-the-counter meds are known by different names in different countries
These features can save you time, stress, and a whole lot of online searching.
24/7/365 support (from people who care)
Health issues don’t stick to local business hours—and neither should your insurance. Look for plans with 24/7/365 support, every day of the year.
You’ll want:
- A support team that speaks multiple languages to help talk to doctors, medical staff or explain things clearly
- Care coordination so you don't have to do the legwork
- Someone calm and helpful when things feel overwhelming
When you’re in a tough spot, having real support makes all the difference.
The bottom line: peace of mind
International health insurance isn’t just about coverage—it’s about confidence.
Instead of worrying about what might happen, you can focus on the reason you’re traveling in the first place. Whether you’re relaxing on vacation, closing deals, or soaking in a study abroad experience, the right plan gives you peace of mind.
No scrambling for help.
No surprise bills.
Just solid, global protection—and support when you need it most.
Travel smarter. Worry less. Go see the world.
