Compare the Best Travel Insurance for Families
Ready to start comparing travel insurance providers for families? The following are our top choices for travel insurance coverage for families.
| Company | Average Plan Cost | BBB Rating | CFAR Coverage | COVID-19 Coverage | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $248 | A+ | Yes, up to 75% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $404 | A+ | Yes, up to 50% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
| $253 | A+ | Yes, up to 75% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
| $419 | A+ | Yes, up to 60% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $296 | A+ | Yes, up to 50% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $347 | A- | Yes, up to 75% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
| Company | Average Plan Cost | BBB Rating | CFAR Coverage | COVID-19 Coverage | Visit Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $248 | A+ | Yes, up to 75% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $404 | A+ | Yes, up to 50% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
| $253 | A+ | Yes, up to 75% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
| $419 | A+ | Yes, up to 60% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $296 | A+ | Yes, up to 50% | Yes | GET QUOTE |
| $347 | A- | Yes, up to 75% | Yes, limited | GET QUOTE |
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How We Ranked Family Travel Insurance Companies
To determine the best travel insurance providers for families, we looked at the following characteristics of each insurance provider.
- Complementary children’s coverage: Select travel insurance providers offer complementary coverage for children with the purchase of an adult policy. We rated these providers highly in our review as many families will include children in travel plans.
- Cost: Next, we compared the cost of coverage for family-oriented policy choices offered by each provider. Companies with more affordable policies for a variety of traveler ages scored higher than those with more expensive plans.
- Coverage options: Travel insurance providers with more policy and add-on choices offer customers higher levels of customization. We ranked these providers above those with more limited plan offerings.
- Types of coverage: Insurance providers with multiple types of coverage included in each plan scored higher than those with more limited benefits. For example, we considered baggage benefits, travel delay compensation, medical evacuation coverage and more.
- Reimbursem*nt limits: We prioritized recommending companies with higher maximum reimbursem*nt limits for major policy components like trip interruption coverage and lost bags.
Top 6 Travel Insurance Plans for Families
Below is our list of the best travel insurance companies for all-inclusive resort vacations:
- Travelex: Our pick for budget travelers.
- Berkshire Hathaway:Our pick for luxury travelers.
- Nationwide Travel Insurance:Our pick for cruise travel.
- Generali Global Assistance:Our pick for emergency assistance.
- Allianz Global Assistance:Our pick for concierge services.
- AXA Assistance USA:Our pick for leisure travelers.
Why Trust MarketWatch Guides
Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.
20
Companies Reviewed
500
Quotes Collected
36
Rating Factors
Travelex
Our pick for budget travelers
4.7
Our Rating
Cost: 4.75/5
Coverage Extras: 2.5/5
Coverage Details: 5/5
CFAR Coverage Amount: 5/5
Claim eligibility time constraints: 5/5
Cancellation/Interruption Coverage Amount: 4.6/5
Delay Coverage Amount: 4/5
Customer Service and Reviews: 5.2/5
Credit Rating: 5/5
Average Cost$437Medical Max Per Person$50,000Baggage Loss Per Person$1,000
Pros and Cons
Pros Affordable for families 24/7 customer support Ideal for large families to be insured together Cons Some add-ons are limited to higher-paid plans Coverage limits for medical claims are quite low
Why We Picked Travelex for Families
Travelex is our top-rated choice for family travel insurance thanks to its all-inclusive Travel Select policies. Travel Select plans include coverage for one child under the age of 17 with the purchase of an adult travel insurance policy. You could save up to 50% on coverage by purchasing a plan with Travelex if you have an equal number of children and adults traveling together.
If your family will be traveling as a group of adults, consider Travelex’s Travel Basic policy option, which is available from $60 for low-cost trips. This policy includes a host of general coverages competitive with other travel insurance providers, ranging from up to $15,000 in emergency medical coverage, $150,000 in emergency evacuation coverage and $500 in trip delay benefits. This can be a viable budget option for families looking for affordable individual protections.
Add-On Options
If you want to expand the coverage of your travel insurance plan, Travelex has the following upgrades:
- Additional medical coverage
- CFAR (cancel for any reason)
- Car rental collision
- Adventure sports cover
- Flight accidental death and dismemberment
Cost
Based on quotes we obtained, a family of four going on a week-long, $8,000 vacation to Mexico should expect to pay $200for a Travelex plan.
To learn more: Travelex travel insurance review
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
Our pick for luxury travelers
4.6
Our Rating
Cost: 4.5/5
Coverage Extras: 3.75/5
Coverage Details: 5/5
CFAR Coverage Amount: 3.5/5
Claim eligibility time constraints: 4.2/5
Cancellation/Interruption Coverage Amount: 4.6/5
Delay Coverage Amount: 5/5
Customer Service and Reviews: 5/5
Credit Rating: 5/5
Average Cost$381Medical Max Per Person$50,000Baggage Loss Per Person$750 ($50 deductible)
Pros and Cons
Pros Can offer up to $100,000 in cancellation coverage Extended trip cancellation circ*mstances Cons No CFAR option Lower medical coverage limits
Why We Picked Berkshire Hathaway
If your family is traveling together, you could have a higher-value vacation that you need to insure. While most insurance providers place caps on the total trip cost they will reimburse, Berkshire Hathaway offers luxury coverage with higher-than-average limits. With the Berkshire Hathaway LuxuryCare plan, you can protect each traveler with up to $100,000 in individual cancellation protection — ideal for high-value international travel.
Berkshire Hathaway’s policies are a bit more expensive than competitors, which means premiums for families will be higher as well. However, its plans are also more inclusive, with up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage and up to $2,000 for trip delay expenses. Berkshire Hathaway also offers unique plans for adventure travelers and cruise-goers, with specific coverages outfitted to your planned excursions.
Add-On Options
Berkshire Hathaway’s LuxuryCare plan covers most travel expenses, such as in a medical emergency. Add-ons are available, but this level of coverage is comprehensive for international travel for families.
Cost
Based on quotes we obtained, a family of four going on a week-long, $8,000 vacation to Mexico should expect to pay$168 for a Berkshire plan.
Generali Global Assistance
Our pick for emergency assistance
4.5
Our Rating
Cost: 4.5/5
Coverage Extras: 2.5/5
Coverage Details: 4.7/5
CFAR Coverage Amount: 4.25/5
Claim eligibility time constraints: 4.2/5
Cancellation/Interruption Coverage Amount: 4.8/5
Delay Coverage Amount: 5/5
Customer Service and Reviews: 4.8/5
Credit Rating: 4/5
Average Cost$298Medical Max Per Person$250,000Baggage Loss Per Person$2,000
Pros and Cons
Pros 10-day free look period Includes identity theft protection High accidental death benefits Cons CFAR upgrade limits reimbursem*nt to 60% Limited add-ons
Why We Picked Generali Global Assistance
If you plan to visit an international destination with young children and you want to add another layer of safety, consider a travel insurance policy from Generali.
Generali Global Assistance is our top choice for international travel assistance, as all of its plans include 24/7 multilingual travel assistance that can help you while abroad. This can be a major benefit if you’re traveling to an area where you do not speak the primary language spoken, especially with young children. We also suggest considering Generali’s plans if you are looking for extra assistance planning your family’s trip, as all plans come with complimentary concierge pre-trip assistance.
Add-On Options
- Rental car damage on standard insurance plan, up to $25,000 per person per plan
- Trip cancellation for any reason on premium travel insurance plan
Cost
Based on quotes we obtained, a family of four going on a week-long, $8,000 vacation to Mexico should expect to pay $359 for a Generali plan.
To learn more: Generali Global Assistance travel insurance review
Allianz Global Assistance
Our pick for business travelers
4.1
Our Rating
Cost: 4.5/5
Coverage Extras: 3.75/5
Coverage Details: 5/5
CFAR Coverage Amount: 0/5
Claim eligibility time constraints: 4.2/5
Cancellation/Interruption Coverage Amount: 4.6/5
Delay Coverage Amount: 4/5
Customer Service and Reviews: 5.2/5
Credit Rating: 4/5
Average Cost$481Medical Max Per Person$75,000Baggage Loss Per Person$2,000
Pros and Cons
Pros Cheapest insurance option Range of policies to choose from Excellent concierge service Cons Limited medical expense coverage No included CFAR coverage
Why We Picked Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz is another top selection for families looking for free children’s coverage with adult travel insurance. The company’s OneTrip Prime policy option includes free coverage for children under the age of 17. However, you must purchase adult coverage and plan to travel with the child. Like Travelex’s family coverage, this could potentially save up to 50% on insurance costs for family vacations.
The OneTrip Prime policy is one of Allianz’s most comprehensive and inclusive options, with up to $100,000 in trip interruption coverage, $50,000 in emergency medical protections and $1,000 for lost baggage. This policy also includes a few unique inclusions, including up to $500 in last-minute travel itinerary changes.
Add-On Options
The following add-on options come with Allianz Global Assistance:
- Winter sports and ski insurance
- Cancel anytime upgrade
Cost
Based on quotes we obtained, a family of four going on a week-long, $8,000 vacation to Mexico should expect to pay$250 for a Allianz plan.
To learn more: Allianz Global Assistance travel insurance review
AXA Assistance USA
Our pick for leisure travelers
4.3
Our Rating
Cost: 4/5
Coverage Extras: 3.1/5
Coverage Details: 4.7/5
CFAR Coverage Amount: 5/5
Claim eligibility time constraints: 2.9/5
Cancellation/Interruption Coverage Amount: 4.6/5
Delay Coverage Amount: 5/5
Customer Service and Reviews: 4.6/5
Credit Rating: 4/5
Average Cost$483Medical Max Per Person$250,000Baggage Loss Per Person$500
Pros and Cons
Pros Special leisure activities covered by its platinum policy High insurance cover for non-medical evacuations Higher baggage delay benefit on its platinum plan Cons Most expensive policy reviewed Limited coverage add-ons available
Why We Picked AXA Assistance
If you are planning to travel with your family to a remote area or partake in outdoor activities, consider AXA’s travel insurance policies. In the event of a medical evacuation or illness, AXA will arrange complimentary return transportation for a travel companion or unattended minor. In the event of a sudden medical emergency that leaves a minor unattended, AXA will arrange an escort to accompany the child and ensure their safe return home. This can be a major benefit and offer peace of mind if you’re a parent traveling alone with a minor child.
Add-On Options
- CFAR coverage available on the platinum plan
- Collision damage waiver available on gold and platinum plans
Cost
Based on quotes we obtained, a family of four going on a week-long, $8,000 vacation to Mexico should expect to pay $276 for a AXA plan.
To learn more:AXA travel insurance review
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
Travel insurance policies often offer a range of coverage options for families traveling together. These include the following:
Trip Cancellation or Interruption Coverage
Trip cancellation coverage refers to circ*mstances that may force you to cancel a vacation before departure. Trip interruption coverage applies when you may have to cut your vacation short because of unforeseen circ*mstances. Most insurance policies cover you in both cases.
Medical Coverage
Medical coverage reimburses you for medical costs should you have to pay for a medical emergency or need medical attention. Reimbursable events can include basic health care treatment, ambulance fees or repatriation costs in the event of a death. The maximum limit of coverage varies among insurance policies.
Baggage Loss, Delay and Damage Coverage
Most insurance policies give coverage if your luggage is delayed, lost or stolen on your family vacation (as long as the event isn’t your fault or is out of your control). The maximum coverage you can receive depends on the travel insurance policy.
If possessions within your baggage are particularly expensive or if together they add up to a high dollar amount, you may want your family insurance policy to have a larger coverage limit for baggage. You can also take out single-item coverage for something specific if it’s that valuable.
Does Standard Travel Insurance Cover Family Members?
Standard travel insurance policies cover you and your family members. The difference between standard travel insurance and family insurance is that family insurance typically covers families of two adults with at least one and up to eight children under 18.
With family travel insurance, you are offered peace of mind that your insurance policy has been crafted with families in mind to cover your needs.
Common Add-Ons
Common add-ons for travelers and families can include:
- Winter sports coverage: For those hoping to ski or snowboard and partake in winter sports activities
- Cruise coverage: For groups who will be venturing on cruises during their vacation
- Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage: A financial backstop if you must cancel your vacation outside of the policy guidelines
How Much Does Travel Insurance for Families Cost?
The cost of travel insurance for families will depend on the number of family members, the location of the trip, the trip duration, and the total cost. The table below compares costs for basic coverage for a family of four going on a week-long $8,000 vacation to Mexico:
| Provider | Basic Coverage Cost | Unique Offerings | Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Add-On |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berkshire Hathaway | $168.00 | Covers cancellations for unique circ*mstances, such as school schedule changes | Covers up to 50% of trip costs |
| Allianz Global Assistance | $250.00 | Specialized plans for business travelers | Covers up to 100% of trip costs |
| Nationwide Travel Insurance | $188.16 | Annual and single-trip plans, plus IFAR coverage | Covers up to 75% of trip costs |
| Travelex Insurance | $200.00 | Basic plan includes medical, dental and baggage coverage | Covers up to 50% of trip costs |
| Generali Global Assistance | $359.00 | Plans include identity theft protection | Covers up to 60% of trip costs |
| AXA Assistance USA | $276.00 | $1,500 benefit for missed connections and $3,000 benefit for lost luggage | Covers up to 75% of trip costs |
| AIG Travel Guard | $158.46 | Complimentary coverage for one child under age 17 for every adult enrolled | Covers up to 50% of trip costs |
| Trawick International | $167.76 | Annual medical coverage for long-term travel, like study abroad | Covers up to 75% of trip costs |
| Seven Corners Travel Insurance | $245.00 | Annual coverage for an unlimited number of trips | Covers up to 75% of trip costs |
| HTH Travel Insurance | $63.20 | Group insurance coverage | Covers up to 75% of trip costs |
| International Medical Group | $275.08 | Penalty-free, 15-day cancellation period | Not available |
Is Family Travel Insurance Worth It?
Family travel insurance is necessary if you invest a lot of money for a grand family vacation. Knowing that you have comprehensive cover for every member of your party makes it more convenient for travels when you want protection from a range of eventualities.
With a range of family travel insurance policies available, families have ample choices to find a policy that matches their trip, coverage needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some family policies let you travel separately, but you should check with your insurance provider and your policy terms to see if you’re covered.
Buying family and group travel insurance is much more convenient and easier to insure everyone on a trip. Group coverage is also likely to be less expensive than purchasing individual policies for every group member. Children sometimes get included for free in family policies.
You may have insurance to cover your whole family from the credit card you use to book your trip. This is something that varies by bank. You’ll need to talk to your credit card issuer to ask about travel coverage.
Methodology: Our System for Ranking the Best Travel Insurance Companies for Families
Our team surveyed dozens of travel insurance providers and created a scoring system to judge each company based on coverage, quality and service. We also collected sample quotes from each company, both over the phone and on the internet, to simulate an authentic customer experience. Here are the factors we take into consideration when rating providers:
- Cost (10%): To determine a baseline average travel insurance cost, we gathered quotes from each travel insurance company based on different traveler profiles. Travel insurance companies at or below our calculated average cost of $221 earn full points in this category. Specifically, we obtained quotes for the following trips
- A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
- A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
- A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
- A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
- A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
- A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
- A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
- Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
- Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
- Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursem*nt amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursem*nt after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
- Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
A.M. Best Disclaimer
Charlotte Whitaker is a content writer and PR professional currently writing for clients in the travel, tourism and recruitment industries. Coverage highlights for her PR clients include publications such as National Geographic, Forbes, Travel+Leisure, TimeOut and CNN. When she’s not writing, you can find her traveling to the next destination on her bucket list or relaxing in the countryside of the north of England, which she calls home.
Tori Addison is an editor with over five years of experience in the digital marketing industry. Her includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.
