Traveling to the United States is a dream for many, whether you’re planning to explore iconic cities like New York and Los Angeles or seeking adventure in the great outdoors of national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite. However, one thing every traveler should know before boarding a flight is that the American healthcare system is notoriously expensive. A simple emergency room visit can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars without insurance. That’s why purchasing the best travel insurance for the United States is more than just a recommendation—it’s a necessity.
In this guide, we present a comprehensive analysis of the top 20 travel insurance plans from 10 leading insurance companies, based on real quotes gathered on February 13, 2025. We’ve included policy features, pricing, pros and cons, and our honest insights to help you find the perfect coverage based on your travel profile.
Why Do You Need Travel Insurance in the U.S.?
The United States doesn’t require international travelers to carry health insurance upon entry, but it’s highly advised due to the high costs of healthcare. Without coverage, even minor medical issues can result in hefty bills.
In addition to medical coverage, travel insurance also protects you from:
- Flight delays or cancellations
- Lost or delayed luggage
- Legal assistance
- Emergency evacuations
- Accidents and injuries
- Trip interruption or early return
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, and sports
Top 3 Travel Insurance Providers in 2025
1. Assist Card
About:
Founded in 1972 and part of Starr Companies, Assist Card serves over 10 million travelers globally. With multilingual support available 24/7, it’s a standout in customer service and global reach.
Reputation:
- Rating: 8.0 (Reclame Aqui – 2024)
- Response Rate: 100%
- Resolution Rate: 87%
- Customer Return Rate: 68%
Top Plans:
| Plan | DMH | Lost Baggage | Medication | Cancellation | Price/Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC 150 America North Covid-19 | USD 150,000 | USD 1,200 | USD 1,000 | USD 2,000 | R$ 46.94 |
| AC 250 America North Covid-19 | USD 250,000 | USD 1,200 | USD 1,000 | USD 2,000 | R$ 90.87 |
Avantatges:
- High medical coverage, even for pre-existing conditions
- Covers sports injuries
- Pregnancy covered up to 28 weeks
Cons:
- Higher rates for seniors over 69
- Reimbursement delays occasionally reported
Where to Buy:
Available on Seguros Promo or directly on the Assist Card website.
2. Universal Assistance
About:
A member of the Zurich Insurance Group, Universal Assistance has been in the market for over 40 years, employing over 3,000 professionals in 21 countries.
Reputation:
- Rating: 8.1 (Reclame Aqui – 2024)
- Resolution Rate: 80%
- Customer Return Rate: 70%
Top Plans:
| Plan | DMH | Lost Baggage | Medication | Cancellation | Price/Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New UA 60 America North | USD 60,000 | USD 1,300 | USD 600 | No | R$ 25.33 |
| New UA 150 America North | USD 150,000 | USD 1,500 | USD 1,500 | No | R$ 36.59 |
Avantatges:
- Excellent cost-benefit
- Strong coverage for medical and baggage issues
- Great reputation and support
Cons:
- No cancellation coverage
- Occasional delays in reimbursement processing
Where to Buy:
Through platforms like Seguros Promo or directly via Universal Assistance’s official website.
3. Intermac Assistance
About:
Founded in Brazil in 1999 and backed by AIG Seguros, Intermac offers a wide range of policies with options for medical emergencies, COVID-19, and trip interruptions.
Reputation:
- Rating: 7.8 (Reclame Aqui – 2024)
- Resolution Rate: 92% (highest among listed insurers)
- Customer Return Rate: 60%
Top Plans:
| Plan | DMH | Lost Baggage | Medication | Cancellation | Price/Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I60 USA +Covid-19 | USD 60,000 | USD 750 | USD 400 | USD 1,000 | R$ 32.45 |
| I150 USA +Covid-19 | USD 150,000 | USD 1,000 | USD 1,000 | USD 1,500 | R$ 46.02 |
Avantatges:
- High COVID-19 coverage
- Includes physical therapy within DMH
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- No total trip cancellation
- Limited age coverage (up to 74 years)
Where to Buy:
Available on Seguros Promo and Real Seguro Viagem or directly via Intermac’s website.
Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for the U.S.
1. Understand Your Profile
Different travelers have different needs:
- Seniors may need specialized plans with extended age coverage.
- Pregnant women should check for pregnancy clauses.
- Adventure-seekers require coverage for sports or physical activities.
2. Look Beyond Price
Cheaper plans may have lower limits or exclude vital coverage like COVID-19 or pre-existing conditions. Always check:
- Maximum DMH coverage
- Baggage insurance
- Trip cancellation and delay compensation
- Legal and emergency support
3. Use Comparators
Websites like Seguros Promo, Real Seguro Viagem, and ComparaOnline allow side-by-side comparisons of features and pricing, often with exclusive discounts.
Travel Insurance Plans for Special Profiles
Best for Seniors (65+)
- Assist Card i Seniors Plan by Porto Seguro (available through brokers)
- Coverage up to 89 years, albeit with higher premiums
Best for Pregnant Travelers
- Intermac i Assist Card
- Up to 28 weeks of pregnancy included under general coverage
Best for Pre-existing Conditions
- Suno Travel by SulAmérica
- Offers specific clauses for chronic conditions
Best for Students
- My Travel Assist EDU USA
- Includes longer durations and mental health coverage
Best for Adventure and Sports
- Assist Card Sports Pack
- Includes accidents during skiing, hiking, and water sports
Other Leading Travel Insurers to Consider
While this article focuses on the top three, other insurance companies also offer competitive travel plans for the U.S. in 2025:
- Porto Seguro
- Coris
- SulAmérica
- Affinity
- My Travel Assist
- Ciclic
- Next Seguro Viagem
Each of these insurers provides specific plans that may suit your individual travel style and health needs. Many also include customizable add-ons such as dental emergencies, repatriation, and digital document storage.
Final Tips Before Buying Your Travel Insurance
- Read the Fine Print:
Always review policy conditions, exclusions, and claim processes. - Keep Digital and Printed Copies:
Have access to your insurance documents during travel. - Know the Claim Process:
Save all receipts and documentation. Some insurers require hospital forms or incident reports. - Emergency Numbers:
Keep the insurer’s emergency assistance number handy. Most offer global 24/7 service. - Bundle Deals:
Some platforms offer discounts if you book travel insurance with flights or hotel reservations.
Conclusion: Travel Smart, Stay Safe
Choosing the best travel insurance for the United States is not just about compliance or formality—it’s your safety net. With medical costs sky-high and unpredictable events always a possibility, having a solid insurance plan ensures peace of mind and financial protection.
From comprehensive coverage for chronic illnesses and pregnancy to plans tailored for sports enthusiasts and students, there’s a perfect insurance plan waiting for you. Use this 2025 guide as your reference, and always compare before you buy. Safe travels!
