Understanding travel insurance terms and definitions
A helpful guide to common terms found in travel insurance policies, explained in plain language.
📘 Understanding Travel Insurance Terms and Definitions
Travel insurance policies often use terminology that can feel unfamiliar or confusing, especially if it’s your first time purchasing coverage. This glossary provides clear explanations of common terms you’ll see when reviewing plan documents or speaking with our team.
Here are some of the most important travel insurance terms to know:
✈️ Trip Cancellation
Reimburses you for prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you cancel your trip for a covered reason (like illness, injury, or a death in the family).
⛔ Trip Interruption
Covers unused portions of your trip and additional transportation if you must return home early for a covered reason.
⏱️ Trip Delay
Provides reimbursement for extra expenses (like meals or lodging) if your travel is delayed for a certain number of hours due to weather, mechanical issues, or other causes.
💳 Prepaid, Non-Refundable Expenses
Any travel costs you paid in advance that cannot be refunded—such as airfare, hotel stays, or tour packages.
💉 Pre-Existing Medical Condition
A health condition that existed before your travel insurance policy was purchased. Some plans offer coverage if certain conditions are met (like buying the policy within 14–21 days of your deposit).
🚑 Emergency Medical Coverage
Covers medical treatment if you become sick or injured during your trip—especially important when traveling internationally.
✈️ Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
Pays for emergency transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility, and if necessary, return of remains to your home country.
🧳 Baggage Delay or Loss
Covers the cost of replacing essentials (like clothing or toiletries) if your baggage is delayed or lost by the airline or travel provider.
⚠️ Covered Reason
A specific reason listed in your policy for which you’re eligible to make a claim (e.g., illness, weather event, job loss).
❌ Exclusion
A situation, condition, or event that is not covered under your travel insurance policy (e.g., traveling against medical advice or during a war zone advisory).
✅ Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR)
An optional benefit that allows you to cancel for a reason not listed in your plan and still receive partial reimbursement—usually 50%–75% of the trip cost.
💰 Deductible
The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins. Not all travel insurance policies include a deductible.
🔍 Schedule of Benefits
A summary in your policy that lists all available coverages, benefit limits, and key terms. It’s your “cheat sheet” for understanding what’s included.
📄 Certificate of Insurance
The official document that outlines your specific coverage, exclusions, eligibility rules, and instructions for filing a claim.
🙋 Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help. If you're reviewing a plan and come across unfamiliar language, feel free to contact us for clarity and guidance.
📧 support@insuranceconsultantsintl.com
📞 (800) 576-2674
⚖️ Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not guarantee benefit approval or payment. All definitions may vary slightly depending on the travel insurance plan you purchase.
Please note: Insurance Consultants International is not the claims department and does not determine claim outcomes. All decisions regarding coverage and reimbursement are made solely by the licensed claims administrator listed in your policy documents.
It is the insured’s responsibility to review their full policy documents to understand what is and is not covered.