Traveling to the United States is a dream for many people around the world. Whether you’re planning a shopping spree in New York, a road trip through California, a business meeting in Chicago, or a theme park marathon in Orlando, one thing is essential: choosing the best travel insurance.
While travel insurance is not mandatory to enter the U.S., it is highly recommended. The American healthcare system is one of the most expensive in the world, and even a minor medical issue can result in astronomical costs. A broken bone, a sudden illness, or even food poisoning could cost thousands of dollars. That’s why getting the right coverage before boarding your flight is one of the smartest things you can do.
In this guide, we’ll go over:
- The top travel insurance companies for U.S. trips in 2025
- The types of coverage you should consider based on your profile
- Tips for saving money on your policy
- Special considerations for seniors, pregnant travelers, students, and more
- How to compare travel insurance plans effectively
- Real-life scenarios where insurance saved the day
Why You Absolutely Need Travel Insurance for the U.S.
Even though you won’t be asked to show proof of insurance at immigration, the U.S. healthcare system is privatized, and prices are sky-high. For example:
- Emergency room visit: $1,000–$3,000+
- Ambulance ride: $500–$1,200
- Simple X-ray: $300–$500
- Hospitalization: $10,000+ per day
- Medical evacuation: Up to $100,000
These figures make one thing very clear—travel insurance is not an expense, it’s an investment.
Beyond medical assistance, the best travel insurance for the U.S. also offers:
- Flight delay or cancellation compensation
- Lost or damaged luggage reimbursement
- Legal assistance
- Coverage for stolen documents or personal items
- 24/7 emergency support
- COVID-19 coverage (still relevant depending on your situation and airline policies)
Top 10 Best Travel Insurance Plans for the United States in 2025
Here are some of the most reputable and comprehensive travel insurance providers for the U.S. in 2025:
1. Assist Card
Assist Card has a strong reputation worldwide, especially in Latin America and Europe. Their plans for the U.S. include excellent medical coverage (up to $1 million), COVID-19 assistance, telemedicine, and concierge services. They also have multilingual support, which is ideal for non-English-speaking travelers.
Pros: Wide network, app with virtual doctor service, customizable plans
Best for: Families and international tourists
2. Universal Assistance
This Argentina-based provider has become increasingly popular due to competitive pricing and reliable service. Their top-tier plans cover pre-existing conditions and offer high medical coverage.
Pros: Affordable plans, emergency dental included
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers
3. Intermac Assistance
Intermac offers a variety of plans with a good cost-benefit ratio. Their “VIP” options include medical coverage of up to $150,000, including COVID-19.
Pros: Clear and affordable options, good claim service
Best for: Tourists seeking basic but effective coverage
4. Porto Seguro
One of Brazil’s most respected insurance companies, Porto Seguro has expanded its international presence. Their policies are solid, and customer service is a highlight.
Pros: Excellent reputation, strong customer support
Best for: Brazilian travelers seeking a familiar provider
5. Coris
Coris is known for offering flexible travel insurance with great customization. You can choose add-ons like sports coverage or protection for lost electronics.
Pros: Modular coverage, great for adventure travel
Best for: Digital nomads and tech-savvy travelers
6. SulAmérica
This traditional Brazilian insurer partners with international networks to provide solid U.S. coverage. While a bit more expensive, they are reliable and efficient.
Pros: Comprehensive plans, smooth reimbursement process
Best for: Travelers seeking premium service
7. Affinity Seguro Viagem
Affinity offers low-cost insurance plans with good essential coverage. Ideal for short trips or budget-conscious tourists.
Pros: Inexpensive, quick to quote and contract
Best for: Students or backpackers
8. My Travel Assist
Modern and digital, My Travel Assist offers plans through a seamless app interface. Their U.S. coverage includes telemedicine and trip cancellation protection.
Pros: Digital-first, strong user experience
Best for: Millennials and Gen Z travelers
9. Ciclic
Powered by BB Seguros, Ciclic is a Brazilian insurance startup with excellent integration for planning and purchasing. Their U.S. coverage is very competitive.
Pros: Easy to use, great value
Best for: First-time travelers
10. Next Seguro Viagem
Next offers plans tailored to different profiles—students, business travelers, seniors—with benefits like mental health support and 24/7 English assistance.
Pros: Customizable and innovative plans
Best for: Niche travelers (students, seniors, businesspeople)
Best Travel Insurance Plans by Traveler Type
For Seniors
Look for coverage that includes pre-existing conditions, 24/7 emergency support, and higher medical coverage (at least $100,000). Plans from Assist Card, SulAmérica, and Universal Assistance usually offer great senior options.
For Pregnant Women
Confirm what stage of pregnancy is covered (most insurers cover up to 28 weeks). Also, check if the baby’s care is included in case of premature birth. Coris and Affinity offer solid support.
For People with Pre-Existing Conditions
You’ll need a plan that doesn’t exclude chronic illnesses or past surgeries. Be honest in your medical declaration. Porto Seguro, Assist Card, and Universal Assistance usually offer this.
For Adventure Sports
If you’re planning to ski in Colorado, surf in California, or hike in the Grand Canyon, your insurance must explicitly include extreme sports coverage. Coris and My Travel Assist allow this as an add-on.
For Students
Many students going to the U.S. need specific insurance for visa purposes (like F1 or J1). These plans must meet university or government standards. Next and Ciclic offer student-focused plans.
Additional Tips to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
1. Always Compare Plans Before Buying
Use online platforms like Seguros Promo, ComparaOnline, or Real Seguro Viagem to compare policies side-by-side. Look at:
- Medical coverage limits
- Repatriation clauses
- Luggage loss limits
- 24/7 support availability
- COVID-19 or pandemic inclusion
2. Don’t Choose Just the Cheapest
The cheapest plan may not offer sufficient medical coverage. A good benchmark is at least $50,000 for medical emergencies. For seniors or long-term travelers, aim for $100,000 or more.
3. Check If Your Credit Card Offers Coverage
Some premium credit cards (like Visa Infinite or Mastercard Black) include travel insurance, but often with lower limits or exclusions. Always read the fine print.
4. Print and Save Your Policy
Have a physical and digital copy of your insurance certificate and emergency contact numbers. In case of an emergency, fast access is key.
Common Real-Life Situations
- Lost luggage in Miami? Your policy can reimburse essentials like clothes and toiletries until your bags are found.
- Emergency toothache in Los Angeles? Dental emergencies are included in many premium plans.
- Missed connection in Atlanta? Compensation may cover hotel, meals, and transport depending on the reason and delay.
- COVID symptoms in New York? Many plans still include testing, isolation accommodation, and cancellation support.
How to Save Money on Travel Insurance
- Book early: Some insurers offer early-bird discounts
- Use promo codes: Seguros Promo often has seasonal deals
- Choose multi-trip insurance if you travel often
- Remove unnecessary extras (e.g., sports coverage if you won’t use it)
- Consider annual plans for frequent flyers
Final Thoughts
The best travel insurance for the United States in 2025 is not just about price—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or a digital nomad, there’s a policy that fits your needs. With a well-chosen plan, you can explore the U.S. confidently, knowing that you’re protected from unexpected (and very expensive) surprises.
Travel smart. Insure wisely. And enjoy every moment of your trip to the land of opportunity.
