Can You Buy Travel Insurance for Road Trips? Driving across towns, states, or even countries can be exciting, but it also comes with risks. From accidents and breakdowns to lost items or medical emergencies, the unexpected can happen at any time.
Road trip travel insurance helps protect you during these moments. With the right coverage, you can focus on the journey ahead, knowing that support is in place if things don’t go as planned.
This guide explains how road trip insurance works and the best options for staying protected while you’re on the road.
How Road Trip Insurance Works
If you’re renting a car for your journey, insurance coverage becomes even more important to protect yourself and your trip.
For Rental Cars
Not every travel insurance plan includes rental car coverage. If you’re renting a car, look for a plan that offers this protection. You can also book your rental with a credit card that provides car insurance benefits.
Rental car coverage usually applies to physical damage caused by events like accidents, theft, vandalism, storms, or fire. When you pick up the car, you might be offered insurance at the rental counter, often called a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). You can decline it if you already have proper coverage.
For Your Personal Vehicle
If you’re using your own car, traditional road trip insurance is less common but still useful. Some plans include roadside assistance, which can be helpful during long drives or in remote areas.
Additional Coverage to Consider
Aside from car-related protection, some travel insurance policies can also include:
- Medical evacuation
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Accidental death and dismemberment
These options can add peace of mind, no matter how you’re traveling.
How to Choose the Right Insurance Company
Choosing the right travel insurance provider can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Before making a decision, it’s a good idea to compare quotes from different companies.
Coverage and pricing can vary widely, so using online tools like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth can help. These platforms let you view multiple quotes at once and offer filters to help you find a policy that matches your needs and budget. There are many travel insurance companies to choose from. To find the best fit:
- Compare quotes from multiple providers
- Use comparison tools online
- Check for filters that match your travel plans and budget
What to Keep in Mind When Choosing
Before making a decision, consider:
- If you’re renting a car
- Your destination
- Whether your personal auto insurance applies
- The type of coverage you want
- Other travel methods involved
- Your trip length
- The total cost of the plan
Extra Tips Before You Buy
Here are a few more things to help you make the right choice:
- Review your auto insurance policy. In the U.S., it often covers rental cars.
- Look into travel credit cards. Many offer built-in travel insurance.
- Understand how your policy pays out.
Some plans are secondary and only apply after other coverage, while others can act as your main insurance.
