A Complete Guide to Buying Travel Insurance (2025 Edition)

So, you're three months out from your Galápagos Islands adventure. You've had this trip booked for nine months, but you've been dreaming about it for a lifetime. You've confirmed your flights, double-checked your packing list, and even bought a new pair of trail shoes. But there’s one crucial detail still missing: travel insurance.

Maybe it slipped your mind when you first booked your trip. Or maybe you've been asking yourself, “Do I really need travel insurance?”

It’s Not Too Late—But Don’t Wait Much Longer

In most cases, you can buy travel insurance up to the day before you leave. However, coverage options may vary depending on the provider and when you made your initial trip payments. The closer you get to your departure date, the more limited your options may become.

Buying travel insurance isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about peace of mind. And it’s not as simple as choosing the first plan you find online. The right policy for your needs depends on a mix of timing, budget, and personal risk tolerance.

At AGC, we strongly recommend travel insurance. Over the years, we’ve seen too many travelers lose money—and the opportunity to travel—because of last-minute illness, injuries, or unexpected family emergencies. 

The Sooner You Buy, the Better

Traveling always carries some risk. If something unexpected prevents you from joining your trip, travel insurance can soften the financial blow. Even if you’re healthy, life can throw curveballs: wild weather, a sprained ankle, or a family emergency at home. The earlier you purchase coverage, the better your protection—especially for trip cancellation benefits.

We get it—it’s not cheap. And if you don’t need it, it might feel like wasted money. But the real question is: will not having insurance cause you stress while you’re preparing to travel? If the answer is yes, it may be worth the investment simply for peace of mind.

A Quick Checklist: Should You Consider Travel Insurance?

If any of the following are true, travel insurance—especially trip cancellation coverage—is worth serious consideration:

• You or your travel companion have a pre-existing health condition

• You’re responsible for elderly parents or others with health concerns

• You live in an area affected by extreme or unpredictable weather

• You’re traveling with someone who fits one or more of the above 

How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance Plan

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to travel insurance. What’s best for one traveler might not make sense for another. Most people choose their plan based on a cost-to-loss ratio: what you’re willing to spend vs. what you could recover in a worst-case scenario.

We recommend using a travel insurance comparison tool like Squaremouth or Travel Insurance Master to compare policies side by side. You’ll typically enter:

• Your age

• State of residence

• Total trip cost (flights, lodging, activities, etc.)

• Trip dates

• Destination

Keep in mind that not all plans cover everything. Read the policy details carefully and compare coverage options before purchasing. 

What Are Post-Departure Benefits?

If trip cancellation coverage is too costly or unnecessary for your situation, consider getting post-departure benefits instead. This type of policy kicks in once your trip begins and usually includes:

• Trip delay coverage

• Emergency medical benefits

• Medical evacuation

• Lost or delayed baggage

These plans typically cost between $35 and $70, depending on your age. You can get an accurate quote on most insurance websites by entering $1 as your total trip cost. This tells the site you’re only looking for post-departure coverage. It’s the level of insurance AGC always secures for our staff traveling on trips.

Other Things to Know About Travel Insurance in 2025

• Pre-existing conditions: If you or a family member has one, buy your policy shortly after your first trip deposit—typically within 10–21 days—for full coverage. Not all plans offer this, so double-check.

• If AGC cancels your trip: Depending on the insurance company, you may be eligible for a refund of your policy cost. Contact the insurer to confirm.

• Airfare coverage: If your flights aren’t included in the policy, you may be able to add them by contacting the insurance company. Note: many policies only reimburse airline change fees—not the full fare.

• Need to cancel due to illness? See a doctor right away to get documentation. Insurers require proof; your word won’t be enough.

• Always bring a copy of your policy with you while traveling. You never know when you might need it—and having it handy makes filing claims much easier. 

Travel Insurance = Travel Confidence

Travel insurance lets you book boldly, knowing that even if things go sideways, you’re not entirely on your own. Don’t let the “what ifs” keep you from taking that leap.

Get your quote, compare your options, and give yourself the confidence to enjoy every step of your next adventure.

Travelex Insurance Services

Adventures in Good Company partners with Travelex Insurance Services to offer affordable travel protection for our participants. We’ve worked with Travelex for years and appreciate their coverage options, especially for international and adventure-based trips.

💬 Have questions or want to enroll? Contact Travelex at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 06-0331. Or explore their plan options directly at www.travelexinsurance.com.

Disclaimer: Adventures in Good Company does not require travel insurance, but we highly recommend it. Some international trips may require proof of coverage—this will be outlined in your pre-trip documents.