Trip Cancellation Insurance Explained

What it covers, what it doesn't, and when it's worth the money.

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Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable travel costs if you have to cancel for a covered reason. It sounds simple — but the details matter. Here's what it covers, what it doesn't, and when it's worth the money.

What trip cancellation covers

Covered reasons typically include: illness or injury (yours or a family member), death of a family member, job loss (if employed for 1+ years), carrier-caused cancellation, natural disasters at your destination, and a court summons or jury duty.

What it doesn't cover

Changing your mind, work obligations (unless job loss), financial problems, pre-existing conditions (unless stability requirements are met), and events that were known or foreseeable at the time of purchase. 'I just don't want to go' is not a covered reason.

Cancel for any reason (CFAR)

An optional add-on that lets you cancel for any reason — no justification needed — for up to 50% reimbursement, as long as you cancel at least 5 days before departure. It costs more, but it covers the gaps that named-peril cancellation doesn't.

When it's worth it (and when it's not)

Worth it: expensive non-refundable trips, trips with a high chance of cancellation (health, work uncertainty), cruises and tours with strict cancellation penalties. Not worth it: cheap trips, fully refundable bookings, trips you could easily reschedule.

What to check before you travel

List your non-refundable costs before buying
Check the covered reasons list in the policy wording
Consider CFAR for high-cost or uncertain trips
Know the stability requirement for pre-existing conditions
Keep all receipts and booking confirmations

Protecting a big trip?

Add trip cancellation to your emergency medical plan — or upgrade to Cancel for Any Reason for the ultimate flexibility.

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One night in a Canadian ICU can top $14,000 — without coverage, that's on you.

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