Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, but even the best-planned trips can take an unexpected turn.

Flights get canceled, luggage goes missing, medical emergencies arise, and sometimes global events disrupt entire itineraries. That’s where travel protection insurance comes in—it’s designed to give you peace of mind by safeguarding your financial investment and helping you handle unforeseen circumstances. Travel professional, Chris Mattingly of BC Vacations, lays out 4 reasons why protecting yourself and your trip are essential.

Reasons to Have Travel Protection

1. Trip Cancellation & Interruption Life happens. Illness, family emergencies, or unexpected work obligations can force you to cancel or cut a trip short. Without protection, you could lose thousands in non-refundable deposits.

2. Medical Emergencies Abroad Many health insurance policies offer limited or no coverage overseas. Travel protection often includes emergency medical and evacuation benefits, ensuring you’re not left with overwhelming bills.

3. Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage Insurance helps cover essentials when your bags are delayed,or reimburses you for lost items.

4. Travel Delays Weather, strikes, or mechanical issues can leave you stranded. Coverage can reimburse for meals, hotels, and rebooking expenses.

Misconceptions About Credit Card Coverage

Many travelers assume their credit card “automatically” covers them. While some premium cards offer limited benefits, they’re often not as comprehensive as a dedicated policy.

Common gaps include:

– Medical Coverage: Most cards don’t cover overseas medical or evacuation.

– Coverage Limits: Benefits are usually capped at low amounts.

– Eligibility Rules: You often must have purchased the entire trip on that specific card.

– Exclusions: Pre-existing conditions, adventure activities, and non-refundable deposits may not be included.

Relying solely on credit card protection can leave you exposed to significant risks.

Single-Trip vs. Annual (Multi-Trip) Policies

– Single-Trip Policy Designed for one vacation or business trip. It’s usually the most affordable if you

travel just once or twice per year. You get tailored coverage for the specific dates and destination.

– Annual / Yearly Policy Best for frequent travelers. It covers all trips within a 12-month period (usually

with a maximum trip length, such as 30–60 days per trip). While more expensive upfront, it’s often more

cost-effective and convenient for globetrotters or business travelers.

Final Thoughts

Travel protection insurance is not just an optional add-on—it’s a safeguard against the unexpected.

Whether you take one big trip a year or travel monthly, the right coverage ensures your journey is memorable for all the right reasons. Before your next adventure, weigh the options between a single-trip policy and an annual plan, and don’t assume your credit card has you fully covered.

Author: Chris Mattingly of BC Vacation