Travel is fun, and insurance isn’t. However, the two come together in travel insurance. This type of insurance protects you from a variety of common mishaps, like flight cancellations and foreign medical expenses. Given that, you would think you don’t need it for a road trip within the United States. You only need auto insurance, right? Well, that’s only kind of true. Keep reading to learn all about whether you need travel insurance for road trips.
Yes and No
Okay, here’s the scoop: the answer to whether you need travel insurance for road trips is both yes and no. Why the ambiguity? Well, travel insurance offers a safety net for a variety of unpredictable mishaps, but road trips have their own unique rhythm and risks.
When You Might Want Travel Insurance for Road Trips
Picture this: you’ve got your favorite playlists ready, snacks stocked, and a map peppered with must-see spots. Suddenly, your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Cue the panic!
Travel insurance can cover car rental expenses if your beloved vehicle decides to throw a tantrum. You might be thinking, “Car insurance will do that too.”
That’s true! However, travel insurance will also cover other expenses. For example, if you’ve booked accommodations or activities in advance, travel insurance can safeguard those prepaid expenses in case life throws you a curveball, like illness or extreme weather.
And don’t forget the all-important medical coverage; even the healthiest of us can fall prey to the infamous travel bug or an unexpected injury. Travel insurance can help cover costs from doctors who might not be in your network.
Basically, travel insurance can work like deluxe car insurance. It covers your vehicle, accommodations, and health.
When You Might Not Need Travel Insurance for Road Trips
If your road trip involves short distances or familiar routes, or you have a flexible (and refundable!) schedule, travel insurance isn’t likely to be helpful.
Plus, your car insurance or health insurance might already offer sufficient coverage for on-the-road mishaps. Check those policies to see if you’re already covered. Consider upgrading your policies before the trip for the best coverage, but make sure you know the best time of year to upgrade insurance.
There you have it! The answer to whether you need travel insurance for road trips ultimately depends on your plans and personal comfort level with risk. In the end, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of another insurance policy, you don’t have to. Safe travels!
Getting ready for your road trip in the US? Check out The Best Road Trips in Each Region of the U.S.
Casey is a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries from highly technical, consumer, and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.
